Cirrus@Austlit

'Spring in Paris … the perfect time to turn over a new leaf

'In the heart of a city blooming with flowers, three women face life-changing challenges. Driven by grief over the sudden death of her mother, Corinne, Sydneysider Emma Taylor has taken refuge with her Parisian grandmother, Mattie, in her house with its secret garden. Determined to unlock the mysteries of Corinne’s past, Emma’s only clue is an enigmatic photograph.

'Celebrated garden designer Charlotte Marigny believed she had a happy marriage, until her husband, Tom, inexplicably started to withdraw from her. Needing time to think about the future, she has fled their home in London for her native Paris.

'Meanwhile, widowed Parisian florist Arielle Lunel had finally managed to get her life together, after her husband’s death and the discovery of his crippling debts three years earlier changed everything for her and their young twins. Now, her world is again turned upside down when her controlling parents-in-law arrive with a disturbing proposal...

'Drawn together by loss and the romantic gardens of Paris, the paths of the three women begin to intersect as they develop an unexpected friendship that will transform their lives.'  (Publication summary)

'Life doesn’t always serve up the perfect dish, but second chances are always on the menu There's nothing quite so beautiful as Paris in the spring; and when you add in the chance to learn the French way of food, in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere, who can resist? Not Gabi Picabea or Kate Evans who have come from Australia to Sylvie Morel's Paris Cooking School.

'Both are at a crossroads, and learning to cook the French way in Paris, far away from all their troubles, seems like the perfect escape.

'Still bruised from a shocking betrayal by her ex-husband, Kate is trying to find a new place for herself in life, and emotional peace, while French-Australian artist Gabi is struggling with a crippling creative block.

'Meanwhile, Sylvie herself is facing challenges of her own – a mysterious harassment campaign against the School and a reassessment of her relationship with her commitment-shy lover Claude.

'For each of the women, that extraordinary April in Paris will bring unexpected twists and transformations that will change the course of their lives.

'A delectable novel about love, hope and the consolations of the perfect strawberry tart, The Paris Cooking School is a treat for the soul.' (Publication summary)