A Thousand Recipes for Revenge

Chefs of the Five Gods, Book 1

By: Beth Cato

Narrated by: Elizabeth Knowelden

Length: 13 hrs and 32 mins

Publisher's summary

“Cato has created a richly imagined world full of tasty surprises and thrilling adventure—I already hunger for more.”—Kevin Hearne, New York Times bestselling author of The Iron Druid series

A world on the brink of war and a mother and daughter on the run, in a thrilling novel of swashbuckling adventure, culinary magic, and just desserts.

Adamantine “Ada” Garland has an empathic connection to food and wine, a magical perception of aromas, flavors, and ingredients. Invaluable property of the royal court, Ada was in service to the Five Gods and to the Gods-ordained rulers of Verdania—until she had enough of injustice and bloodshed and deserted, seeking to chart her own destiny. When mysterious assassins ferret her out after sixteen years in hiding, Ada, now a rogue Chef, and her beloved Grand-mère run for their lives, only to find themselves on a path toward an unexpected ally.

A foreign princess in a strange court, Solenn unknowingly shares more with Ada than an epicurean gift. They share blood. With her newfound magical perception, she becomes aware of a plot to kill her fiancé, the prince. It’s part of a ploy by adversarial forces in the rival country of Albion to sow conflict, and Solenn is set up to take the blame.

As Ada’s and Solenn’s paths converge, a mother and her long-lost daughter reunite toward a common goal, and against a shadowy enemy from Ada’s past who is out for revenge. But what sacrifices must be made? What hope is there when powerful Gods pick sides in a war simmering to eruption?

©2023 Beth Cato (P)2023 Brilliance Publishing, Inc., all rights reserved.

Critic reviews

“This audiobook has all the ingredients of an addictive fantasy: mysterious backstories, families torn apart by war, and true friendships that have stood the test of time. Elizabeth Knowelden's narration immerses listeners in a world of shadowy enemies, gods, and gifted chefs who use magical ingredients in food and wine to influence people.… Knowelden seamlessly alternates between the points of view of the two heroines: a mother and a long-lost daughter who are reunited to carry out a common goal.”—AudioFile Magazine

“…special appeal for historical and sword/sorcery fantasy fans…brought vividly to life by the narrative storytelling performance of voice actor Elizabeth Knowelden. A solidly entertaining tale of magic and danger…a fun and recommended pick.”—Midwest Book Review

“Narrator Elizabeth Knowelden’s accents and perfect pacing will leave listeners craving the next installment. Strong women characters and an innovative magic system make for a highly recommended listen.”—Library Journal

Unexpected magic.

I was surprised by the magic system in this story and completely enjoyed it and the twists involved with the how the magic works. I know this is a new book, but I really hope there is a sequel or a series to follow.

Long but delicious!

I really enjoyed the story itself, but it was certainly a long haul. If you’re looking for a quick read, this isn’t it, but if you’re looking for substantial character development and a story atypical of what you usually find in the fiction world - this fits the bill!

Hmmmm

Still deciding how I feel, I will say while the concept is odd/unique, the writing is beautiful. Book one is all about world building and you get to k is this unique world where chefs are granted magical abilities that not only have them being revered but feared and conscripted into service by nobility. There’s a different sort of Gods and their powers and limitations. Ada, her daughter and the rest are all introduced of reintroduced to each other as war is on the horizon.

Riveting

Highly imaginative having “foods” as conduits for magic, engrossing plot and characters one can’t help but champion. Narrator Elizabeth Knowelden brings the storyline to life!

Great fun!

This was very good. The magic was very original. The writing quality was wonderful. I’m looking forward to the next one.

Another great story from Beth Cato

I know it's a great story, and performance, when I can't seem to put it down. Normally I limit my audio book time to long drives and workouts at the gym. With this one I found myself listening whenever I had the chance. The author quickly brings you into a well thought out universe and wraps you right up into the story. Her characters are well thought out, and as always her descriptions of the setting, and especially the food, draw you right in. I highly recommend this read, and if you haven't read Beth Cato's other books, expect that you'll need to listen to those as well once you've finished this. She'll definitely leave you wanting more.

Innovative magic system

I really enjoyed this story and will be looking forward to the next novel in the series.

Odd Premise But FABULOUS Writing!

Engrossing plot, we’ll drawn characters. I really rooted for the 2 main characters. I was skeptical about the food/chef thing but got pleasantly sucked in.

Very enjoyable

I thought the writing and performance were lovely. I appreciate a good adventure story. Could see enjoying further books set in that world.

Unique with So Many Clever Layers

i LOVE the 1st book's unique premise, magic systems, world building, narration, characters, and their arcs. One of my new absolute favorites, i return to it time and time again.

Just gotta pay attention to chapters alternating between the 2 protagonists' viewpoints, to keep track of their parallel storylines.

One of my favorite characters, especially with how the narrator brings them to life, is the grandma. For a few reasons including this are why I prefer the 1st book to the 2nd.