The challenge with this book is to write about it without repeating the things on the back cover. Or for that matter, the front cover. So here goes.
Tarquin Winot has freshly shaved his head and is on a journey, in disguise-telling why would be a spoiler, from Portsmouth to Provence. He describes his journey and his life through his menus. His is brilliant, highly –learned, darkly funny, deluded (or does he want us to think so?), ironic, super- snobbish and chilling.,
One review claimed he was one of the best characters to come out of England since Dickens put pen to paper and I am inclined to agree.
Brilliant, elegant pro se, steeped in irony. At the same time you can taste and smell the flavours of the food.
Caveat- Too much of the detail in the menu made my eyes glaze over. Perhaps t was just me- most of his dishes were about cooking succulent meat and I am a vegetarian. A word of caution- blink if this happens. Or you will miss something vital about the Sinister Tarquin, his life, his family and his emotions.
Read- This is lemon cheese cake. It’s tart, sweet and then after the lest forkful, you discover it was laced with arsenic.
©Maya
