Enfield bookworm Emily Cameron, who works at Waterstones, recommends two books to read this summer

A Waiter in Paris

Ever dreamed of escaping to a distant location? Perhaps a quaint town in Italy or a serene Greek island? Or perhaps the bustling energy of a city like New York, where skyscrapers catch up to you on every corner?

In his compelling memoir, A Waiter in Paris, Edward Chisholm takes readers on such a journey. Chisholm recounts his experiences of being overworked and underpaid in the romantic city of Paris. Throughout his time as a waiter, Chisholm substitutes the romanticised ‘la vie en rose’ view of Paris with a raw and tumultuous portrayal, unveiling an unseen side of the city.

Instead of a relaxing sit down with a charcuterie board, think coffee and bread for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Naturally, the memoir depicts Chisholm’s journey, which encompasses the numerous mistakes he makes along the way, both culturally and professionally. Moving to Paris as a waiter without knowing the language undoubtedly has its drawbacks. Yet, there’s something refreshing about discovering that the “city of lights” isn’t always so bright.

This book offers a captivating portrayal of a life beyond imagination, blending amusing anecdotes with the challenges of starting anew. Reading it will prompt you to contemplate where you would go and what you would do if you were to start fresh in a new location.

The Temptation of Gracie

If you haven’t yet discovered Santa Montefiore’s writing, I highly recommend adding her to your list of authors to enjoy while lounging by the pool or relaxing in your garden, basking in the warmth of the sun with a good book in hand — this book is the perfect choice.

The Temptation of Gracie unveils a tale of varied lost love. Montefiore’s book follows Gracie, whose life in Devon is marked by routine and familiarity. However, everything changes when she stumbles upon an article advertising a week-long cooking class at a castle in Italy. Against her usual nature, Gracie decides to embark on this adventure.

Unbeknownst to her, her workaholic daughter Carina and 17-year-old granddaughter Anastasia plan on joining her. Little do they know, Gracie has a hidden past in Italy, and the castle holds ties to her traumatic yet passionate history. Montefiore has a knack for immersing readers in the settings of her stories, whisking them away to seaside towns in England or lush, exotic locales in Europe.

In this book, she skilfully crafts a captivating portrayal of Italy that will sweep you into the sun-kissed landscapes of the Tuscan countryside.

Ultimately, The Temptation of Gracie is a feel-good read and an essential companion for your summer, or if you would like to feel as though it is summer! One downside? You’ll likely find yourself longing to book a cooking class in Italy as soon as you turn the final page, ready to trade the drizzle of English rain for the drizzle of olive oil on freshly baked bread.

No news is bad news

Independent news outlets like ours – reporting for the community without rich backers – are under threat of closure, turning British towns into news deserts.

The audiences they serve know less, understand less, and can do less.

If our coverage has helped you understand our community a little bit better, please consider supporting us with a monthly, yearly or one-off donation.

Choose the news. Don’t lose the news.

Monthly direct debit

Annual direct debit

£5 per month supporters get a digital copy of each month’s paper before anyone else, £10 per month supporters get a digital copy of each month’s paper before anyone else and a print copy posted to them each month. £50 annual supporters get a digital copy of each month's paper before anyone else.