This story bursts with light, color, and the sensuality of art, food, and intimacy. In 1920s Provence, a renowned but bitter artist called Tata paints in recluse, alone except for Ettie, the niece he has raised. She longs to paint too, but is forbidden by the controlling Tata and subjugated to serve as his assistant. Joseph, a young journalist, comes to stay to write about Tata. As the summer heats up, a desire blooms between Joseph and Ettie that they must hide from Tata. Suspense builds, secrets are revealed, and everything is put at risk for art, food, love, and ambition. Simply wonderful.
The Artist and the Feast by Lucy Steeds, (List Price: $27.99, Union Square & Co., 9781454960522, May 2025)
Reviewed by Patience Allan-Glick, Hills & Hamlets Bookshop in Carrollton, Georgia