After years of working in her grandmother’s restaurant, “The Glass Kitchen,” Portia Cuthcart—a native Texan—finds herself newly divorced and relocating to New York City. With no money and just a handful of her grandmother’s treasured cookbooks, she is determined to rebuild her life. In her quest for self-discovery, Portia is confronted by a remarkable ability she has long tried to ignore: “the knowing,” a gift passed down from her grandmother.
“Sometimes we have to be brave in order to dig deep and find answers. Even if we’re not sure we’re going to like the answers.”
One morning, waking up with the intoxicating taste of crisp green apples drenched in brown sugar and spice, Portia feels an overpowering urge to bake. Soon after, her older sister Cordelia arrives at her doorstep, demanding one of Portia’s renowned apple cakes. On another occasion, when Portia gets a craving for chocolate and cinnamon chili-coated peanuts, it’s no surprise when her neighbor complains of a cold—after all, she knows them to be the perfect remedy. This gift of foresight, while something she initially resented, becomes an integral part of her life. With the support of her sisters, Cordelia and Olivia, Portia embraces “the knowing” and decides to reopen “The Glass Kitchen,” this time in the bustling heart of New York City. As she navigates her new life and begins to find herself, she grows closer to her upstairs neighbor, Gabriel Kane—a wealthy widower—and his two teenage daughters, Ariel and Miranda. Little does she know, the Kane family harbors their own secrets.
“Some things are true whether you believe them or not.”
“The Glass Kitchen” is a unique read, unlike anything I’ve encountered before (romance novels are usually not my preference). Once I started, I found it impossible to put down, finishing it in just two days. If I had to describe it in a single word, it would be “charming.” This book is filled with lighthearted moments—such as Portia’s hilarious escapade working at a burger joint while dressed as a hamburger—but it also delves into poignant themes of identity and self-discovery. The narrative weaves together romance, family dynamics, intrigue, and the journey to unearth one’s inner strength, all while remaining true to oneself. Portia is a wonderfully quirky and multi-dimensional character; her relatable struggles resonate with many readers. The culinary backdrop adds an enriching layer to the story, as each chapter begins with a course, and the author, Linda Francis Lee, even includes some delightful recipes at the end (the Avocado and Grapefruit Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing is particularly inspired). “The Glass Kitchen” is a delightful summer read: enchanting, heartfelt, and brimming with humor and captivating plot twists. Whether or not you’re a food enthusiast, this book and its engaging characters will captivate you until the very last page.
