The Chocolate Promise (Josephine Moon, A&U)

The Chocolate Promise offers a Tasmanian twist on the movie Chocolat; its heroine Christmas Livingston—who is more fairy godmother than seductress—runs a boutique chocolate shop outside of Launceston. Staunchly single, Christmas is content making and selling chocolate and bringing help and happiness to those in need. However, when a handsome stranger arrives on the scene, she finds herself at great risk of being swept thoroughly off her feet. Pleasantly parochial without being dinky, Josephine Moon’s second novel (following 2014’s The Tea Chest) is a relatable, easy read that successfully balances cleverness and cuteness. The story is inspiring and life-affirming, with a well-rounded central character whose moments of darkness and despair occur off the page, recalled as reminiscences of difficult times. Dealing with issues of independence and maturity, family and connection, as well as romance, desire, food and travel, The Chocolate Promise is a fun addition to contemporary women’s fiction. It will appeal readers looking for a lighter read with a happy ending.

Amy Vuleta has a Masters in literature and works as a bookseller in Melbourne