Heartbake: A bittersweet memoir

In the spirit of Michelle Zauner’s “Crying in H Mart” and Dolly Alderton’s “Everything I Know About Love,” Charlotte Ree’s “Heartbake” combines elements of memoir, recipe book, and an empowering call to those who feel lonely or crave more from life at any age.

“‘The discovery of cooking for others again ignited something in me-it gave me meaning, and in some ways it brought me back to life.'”

In this heartfelt memoir, Charlotte Ree shares her journey of rediscovering herself through cooking after a challenging divorce that left her feeling lost and uncertain about her identity and desires during a time of upheaval.

As she learns to master each meal – from a simple boiled egg to grilled cheese, lasagne, and ricotta and pesto ravioli in a brown butter and sage sauce – Charlotte’s story unfolds, highlighting her quest for love in different forms: friendships, family, romantic relationships, and self-love, as she gradually heals from the narratives that had shaped her life for years.

With deeply personal anecdotes and an emotional richness, Charlotte’s prose evokes a mix of heartache, humor, and mouthwatering descriptions. She explores the complexities of her family dynamics, reflects on how her observed role models influenced her choices and self-worth, recounts both disastrous and delightful dates, and celebrates the joy of sharing good food with both strangers and loved ones.

“Heartbake” is a captivating tale that will leave you laughing, crying, and craving delicious meals, while also offering profound insights into the human experience and the transformative power of self-discovery through the culinary arts.