the strawberry thief book review

Chocolat #4

The strawberry thief, joanne harris.

362 pages, Hardcover

First published March 28, 2019

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The Literary Edit

Review: The Strawberry Thief – Joanne Harris

It’s hard to believe that Chocolat – a book that I love with such a passion that I have bought copies many times over, from bookshops in Paris to Sydney and beyond – was published in 1999; twenty years ago now. A novel that was instrumental in my love for literature, it not only whet my appetite for the sort of evocative writing that Joanne Harris has honed to perfection, but too for all things French. In the years that have since passed since I bought my first edition of Chocolat (from a branch of the now defunct HMV no less) I have devoured most of her back catalogue, from Five Quarters of the Orange, to the lesser known Sleep Pale Sister, and there are few authors whose prose I love, and whose plots I hold in such high esteem as those belonging to Harris.

I adored both books that followed Chocolat – Peaches for Monsieur le Curé and Paris-based T he Lollipop Shoes , and so it was with utter delight that I found out last year that there was a fourth to follow – The Strawberry Thief. Having begged Harris’s publicist to send a copy to Sydney, the day it arrived I settled down for an early evening of reading, surrounding myself with familiar friends of old in the fictional French village of Lansquenet -sous-Tannes.

While I needed no reminder just why Harris has long been one of my favourite writers, as soon as I started The Strawberry Thief I was immediately bewitched by her rich and poetic prose, her sense of setting and the colourful cast of characters I have loved getting to know over the years. I found myself back at the Chocolaterie that Vianne Rocher owns; the smell of chocolate and nutmeg and cinnamon in the air, knowing that the skitter of wind – something of a character in itself – is to bring about a change in the small French village where this tale plays out.

Charming and magical with a dark undertone that simmers throughout the story, The Strawberry Thief centres around the will of village florist Narcisse, who, in the wake of his death leaves his land to Vianne’s daughter, Rosette, much to the dismay of his daughter. Alongside his will is a written confession to Father Reynaud which brings about feeling of both guilt and redemption for the village priest. And when a mysterious shop opens in the village square, Vianne is forced to confront demons of days gone by, as she finds herself fighting to protect everything she sought to build for herself and her family in the place she now calls home.

Evocative, poetic, beautifully written and utterly unputdownable, The Strawberry Thief is Harris at her very best, and I pray it’s not the last time we visit the characters of Lansquenet -sous-Tannes.

About The Strawberry Thief

Vianne Rocher has settled down. Lansquenet-sous-Tannes, the place that once rejected her, has finally become her home. With Rosette, her ‘special’ child, she runs her chocolate shop in the square, talks to her friends on the river, is part of the community. Even Reynaud, the priest, has become a friend. But when old Narcisse, the florist, dies, leaving a parcel of land to Rosette and a written confession to Reynaud, the life of the sleepy village is once more thrown into disarray. The arrival of Narcisse’s relatives, the departure of an old friend and the opening of a mysterious new shop in the place of the florist’s across the square – one that mirrors the chocolaterie, and has a strange appeal of its own – all seem to herald some kind of change: a confrontation, a turbulence – even, perhaps, a murder…

About Joanne Harris

Joanne Harris is an Anglo-French author, whose books include fourteen novels, two cookbooks and many short stories. Her work is extremely diverse, covering aspects of magic realism, suspense, historical fiction, mythology and fantasy. She has also written a Dr Who novella for the BBC, has scripted guest episodes for the game Zombies, Run!, and is currently engaged in a number of musical theatre projects as well as developing an original drama for television.

In 2000, her 1999 novel Chocolat was adapted to the screen, starring Juliette Binoche and Johnny Depp. She is an honorary Fellow of St Catharine’s College, Cambridge, and in 2013 was awarded an MBE by the Queen.

Her hobbies are listed in Who’s Who as ‘mooching, lounging, strutting, strumming, priest-baiting and quiet subversion’. She also spends too much time on Twitter; plays flute and bass guitar in a band first formed when she was 16; and works from a shed in her garden at her home in Yorkshire.

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Wind-erful read from the alchemist of story

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The Strawberry Thief review: More magic from Chocolat maker

Joanne harris is back in the french village of lansquenet-sous-tannes – this is one of the best.

“Everyone’s different. Some of us are just more different than others.” – The Strawberry Thief

When Joanne Harris published Chocolat in 1999, it became a global literary phenomenon that sold more than a million copies in the UK and Ireland alone. The film adaptation that followed a year later, starring Juliette Binoche and Johnny Depp, introduced even more people to the magical world of Lansquenet-sous-Tannes, the French village where we meet the charming and charmed protagonist, Vianne Rocher, of the magical chocolatier.

Now, 20 years later, The Strawberry Thief, the fourth book in the Chocolat series, offers fans another opportunity to luxuriate in Harris’s seductive storytelling.

When I discovered Chocolat as a teenager, it satisfied a craving in me that had lingered from childhood. I was nostalgic for a reading experience that allowed me to believe there was still the possibility for magic shimmering within the real world. As a child I had longed to discover the secret passageway, or mysterious lady with glamours surrounding her, that would open up a magical realm to me. Discovering Harris’s work felt like a validation of my searching for a narrative sophisticated enough to satisfy an adult appetite but still magical enough to inspire hope. From there a world of work of magical realism opened up with the discovery of Angela Carter, Gabriel García Márquez and Salman Rushdie, but the bewitching power of Harris’s special talents was where it all began.

Pleasure and denial

It would be a mistake to consider a novel that has a magical element, with a witch who wields her power through the art of chocolate making at its heart, as simply sweet. The Chocolat novels are poignant literary explorations of universal themes of pleasure and denial, the dangers of dogma, xenophobia and racism and the enduring power of love and understanding to eradicate the traumas of the past. In a time when society is becoming increasingly afraid of anything that is considered “other”, these stories offer an alternative way to view change and to embrace rather than fear the unknown.

In this latest novel, Vianne Rocher has finally settled in Lansquenet-sous-Tannes, the village that once rejected her, and her relationships within the community are strong. Her eldest daughter, Anouk, has followed the call of the wind to Paris, but Rosette, Vianne’s “special child”, remains close. In this regard the novel offers a moving portrait of a mother reconciling her desire for her children to be happy, free and fulfilled, while desperately wishing to hold them close so that she can protect them.

The sleepy village inevitably faces disruption, however, when the florist Narcisse dies, bequeathing some land to Rosette and a confession to the priest, Reynaud, that has ramifications for many. With the arrival of a charismatic new woman, with a mysterious shop of her own, Vianne faces a threat that unsettles her and forces her to call upon the talents she has worked hard to disguise in the interest of a peaceful existence. In a series of first-person accounts, myriad perspectives on the turbulence in the village culminate in a powerful ending that is pleasing in its unexpected resolutions.

Rich Rocher

Those who have followed the plight of the Rocher family through their previous adventures, will inevitably have a deeper reading experience than those being introduced to the Chocolat world for the first time. This should not be a deterrent, however, for those who would like to begin here and travel back in time, for The Strawberry Thief stands beautifully on its own two feet. The only disadvantage to this approach may be the limited exposure that this novel gives to Vianne Rocher. To fully appreciate the complexity of her character, and the decisions she makes, it would be beneficial to understand what has gone before. If I could have asked one wish for this story, it would have been to spend more time with Vianne – the most intriguing voice of Harris’s character creations. These are the challenges authors must always face when developing a narrative over a series of books, but Harris does navigate it very skilfully.

There are few writers who are so masterful in their evocation of the senses as Harris; her prose oozes with sounds and smells and tastes that are intoxicating and I’ve yet to discover more enticing descriptions of food than those offered in her work.

The Strawberry Thief is among the best of Harris’s eclectic portfolio – this story is compelling and casts a spell of its own that renders it almost impossible to put down. Perhaps it’s inevitable when, as Vianne says, “there is magic in stories”.

Helen Cullen

Helen Cullen, a contributor to The Irish Times, is a novelist and critic

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Where i share my book reviews, muse on book and blog related topics, and tell you about my forays into the craft world, book review: the strawberry thief by joanne harris.

Joanne Harris takes the reader back to Lansquenet-sous-Tannes, and the now accepted chocolatier, Vianne Rocher, continuing to practice her own brand of chocolate magic. How things have changed, even Francis Reynaud, the priest, once her fiercest critic is now a friend. Vianne has lost her summer child, Anouk, to Paris and the man she has fallen in love with. She finds some comfort that her winter child, the special Rosette will never leave her. Rosette doesn’t attend school, does not speak, has a companion that only few can see, Bam, the monkey, and has a special gift for art and drawing. Snow makes an unexpected appearance, and the winds of change are blowing, heralding death, unstoppable chaos and a confrontation between different forms of powerful magic, that of chocolate and ink. Vianne has a desperate sense of foreboding, the tarot cards, Death, The Fool and The Tower, promise a future that is to test and challenge her.

The death of Narcisse, the florist, triggers conflict and the entry of a newcomer with no feet taking over his shop premises. The mysterious Morgane and her reception by the village carries uncanny echoes of Vianne’s experiences on first settling in the village. Whilst many do not get Rosette and belittle her, Narcisse becomes close to the child after catching her stealing strawberries. He bequeaths his wood to Rosette, the strawberry thief, to be held in trust for her until she is of age. Whilst Rosette is overjoyed, Narcisse’s daughter is less than happy, looking for ways to challenge the bequest. Narcisse had rejected the church and was not fond of Reynaud, but he leaves behind a confession for Reynaud that tells of his heartbreaking background and history, particularly his close relationship with his beloved sister, Mimi, afflicted with seizures. Reynaud carries a heavy burden of guilt from his actions as a child that had such tragic outcomes, events he has never dared to speak of, which he is certain will see him roundly condemned by all. He is afraid that Narcisse knew of his secret. Morgane appears to wield a power over the community and Rosette that makes Vianne so afraid that she will do anything to make her leave.

Joanne Harris is a remarkably beguiling storyteller, infusing dark fairytales in the narrative, of Rosette, the snow child, with her own magic, her ‘accidents’, and her ability to influence the winds. She focuses on human insecurities, frailties and fears, of a casting of magic that disturbs the natural order of things and how natural forces will inexorably topple such unnaturalness. The magic of ink takes hold of a village and community, giving them what they need rather than what they want, including the mark of Cain, and with it comes the inevitable changes that life brings. This is a beautifully written and immersive read, and it is such a pleasure to return to this village and all its diverse characters, even the unlikeable ones! If you are drawn to the whimsical, the bewitching, and glorious storytelling, then this is a novel for you. Highly recommended! Many thanks to Orion for an ARC.

But when old Narcisse, the florist, dies, leaving a parcel of land to Rosette and a written confession to Reynaud, the life of the sleepy village is once more thrown into disarray. The arrival of Narcisse’s relatives, the departure of an old friend and the opening of a mysterious new shop in the place of the florist’s across the square – one that mirrors the chocolaterie, and has a strange appeal of its own – all seem to herald some kind of change: a confrontation, a turbulence – even, perhaps, a murder…

The 4th – and nominally the last – book in the “Chocolat” series, this follows the Peaches for Monsier Le Cure book previously reviewed on this blog. The writing style has changed slightly, so there are now multiple voices – Vianne, Reynard (Le Cure) and Rosette (BAM! from previous books) in particular.

Vianne still has the Chocolate Shop and continues to feel uncertain, even when she has been accepted; Anouk is now in Paris, coming back to Lansquenet with a secret, just in time to share it for Easter; Reynaud is still haunted by what he believes is true (and we get to hear more of how and why he fears the boat people).

Vianne still believes that her “winter child” (Rosette) – the one who rarely speaks – will stay with her forever. Meanwhile Narcisse dies, leaving various legacies to people – most of his estate to his daughter; his strawberry patch to Rosette (the Strawberry Thief of the title); and a confession (of sorts) to Reynard…..the latter which goes around various people of the community, so we all get to hear a peace.

Narcisse has left a “confession” for after his death that is essentially a history of why he is a bit of a git. This narrative/diary is read mainly by Le Cure, but, as part of the story, is passed around various characters in the story.

Meanwhile, the florist’s shop is let, to a tattooist called Morgane (her of the two artificial feet). She reminds Vianne too much of the usurper she encountered in The Lollipop Shoes , and therefore Vianne doesnt trust her, especially when Rosette seems all too enamored of the new woman across the street.

So the story has multiple threads, and multiple timelines for what is, essentially, an entwined story. Everyone is important. All threads come together (I wont provide spoilers so I will be knowingly vague). In essence: i enjoyed this book, especially as part of a series. It can be read on it’s own, but is always helpful to read in order/context

FYI the “Strawberry Thief” is referred to in the book as a design by William Morris, and more information (Including an image) can be found here

The Strawberry Thief by Joanne Harris: a visual, verbal and sensual delight - book review

If your sweet tooth is crying out for more Chocolat, then indulge yourself in a truly tasty return to the enchanting world created by Joanne Harris in her multi-million-copy series which won hearts and minds, and was adapted into an Oscar-nominated film starring Juliette Binoche and Johnny Depp .

Lyrical writing, a unique brand of magical realism, stunning atmospherics, and a cast of sparkling characters who could charm the birds out of the trees are the hallmarks of these enthralling novels, and The Strawberry Thief – the fourth in the series and a tale in which the wind shapes destinies – delivers that same heady mix.

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At the heart of these captivating stories is Vianne Rocher, the chocolatier who we first met in 1999 when she arrived as a single mother in Lansquenet at the beginning of Lent with her six-year-old daughter, Anouk, and after initially being rejected, cast a spell over the village with her instinctive gift for matching sweets to her customers.

Five years later, it’s Lent again and Vianne is happily settled in Lansquenet where she runs her chocolate shop and is part of the community. The quiet village that once rejected her has finally become her home and she likes the thought of being ‘rooted’ in one place, ‘never to be blown away.’

But one person who has gone with the wind is her eldest daughter, Anouk, now aged 21 and the ‘summer child’ who she always knew was ‘on loan’ and, much to Vianne’s sadness, is now living with her boyfriend in Paris, ‘returned to the world, to grow and to learn to fall in love.’

Still with Vianne is 15-year-old Rosette, her youngest child, who doesn’t like to talk, much preferring to sit quietly with her button box or draw animals. While her mother ‘sees’ her customers’ favourite kind of chocolate, Rosette ‘sees’ people as different kinds of animals.

On a day of rare snowfall, Rosette hears the song of the wind which she knows is a portent of death and sure enough, Narcisse, the florist, is found dead in his chair the following day. Old and gruff, Narcisse was fiercely fond of Rosette, the wild girl he once found gorging on strawberries in the woodland he owned next to his farm.

And, to the amazement of Narcisse’s own angry daughter and the residents of Lansquenet, the old florist has left that same parcel of valuable land to Rosette, and a written confession to local priest Francis Reynaud, throwing the life of the sleepy village into total disarray.

But there is more unsettling news for Vianne when the enigmatic Morgane Dubois opens her mysterious new shop at the former florist’s… one that mirrors the ethos of the chocolaterie, and has a strange appeal of its own.

Morgane arrived on the ‘changing wind’ and turbulence – a confrontation or perhaps even a murder – might just lie ahead.

Harris’s beautiful prose and extraordinary gift for storytelling are the sparks that ignite this return trip to Lansquenet-sous-Tannes where life, death and magic are a constant, and universal themes of immigration, rejection, racism and fear of outsiders are explored with a light touch but a deep humanity.

Playing a principal role in this new chapter is the enigmatic, mute Rosette, Vianne’s ‘winter child’ who hears and is guided by the voice of the wind… a girl who listens rather than speaks, a ‘force of nature… wild as an armful of birds’ whose instincts and ‘difference’ are a cause for celebration rather than concern.

In fact, Rosette lives in a village where all fates are wind-blown, where truth, love, family, religious conflict, friendship and redemption can comfortably co-exist with mysticism and those things that cannot be rationally explained.

Written with Harris’s special sensory awareness – rooted in a form of synaesthesia which enables her to smell colours – The Strawberry Thief is a visual, verbal and sensual delight full of mystery, magic and the mastery we have come to expect from such a remarkable author.

(Orion, paperback, £8.99)

Review: The Strawberry Thief by Joanne Harris

Storytime. Working as a book agent makes you not go to a bookstore that much because if you want a book, you can order it yourself and get it delivered to your desk. However, this takes away the opportunity to see new releases lying on shelves waiting to be discovered by me. Around Christmas, I had some time to kill and that is when The Strawberry Thief waved at me and politely asked me to give it a new home.

In The Strawberry Thief , the story continues. But let’s make a quick jump back into the past to the year 2000 when the movie Chocolat, starring Juliette Binoche and Johnny Depp, was released.

Based on the novel written by Joanne Harris (published in 1999), Chocolat tells the story of single mother Vianne Rocher and her daughter Anouk who want to set roots in the little town of Lansquenet-sous-Tannes, a small French town settled between Toulouse and Bordeaux. Grown up as a nomad, Vianne never stays long at one place, but she always shares what her mother taught her, to make exquisite chocolate which fits the one eating it and gives exactly what they need. Joy, memories, love.

In 2007, Harris went back to see how the chocolaterie has been doing in The Girl With No Shadow and again in Peaches for Father Francis , published back in 2012.

In The Strawberry Thief , we not only see Vianne and Anouk again, but also have the pleasure to know how Roux, her river-gypsy husband, has been doing. The faithful reader knows of, but does not know much about her, is Vianne younger daughter, Rosette, who is now 16 and learns to cope the magic which lies in her family.

What makes Harris’ story about Vianne and her girls special is that there is always magic in the air. It’s never really explained, but there as well is the phenomenal chocolate which I always think I smell when I dive into the story.

To be honest, after watching the movie when I was maybe like 12 and reading the books afterwards, which came out with many years passing by in between them, I have trouble to remember everything that has happened. However, it is still nice to come back to a story 20 years later which I discovered as a kid.

In this book, Narcisse, the town florist, dies. He leaves Rosette some land and asks her to take care of his strawberries. The town priest, Reynaud, who once, despite Vianne, receives a written confession of what Narcisse once did to someone the reader cares about. And then there is this new shop which opens at the former florist’s shop across from Vianne: a tattoo studio. It is no surprise that every book series changes over time. So of course, there are now computers and smartphones in the story which for me, makes it a whole other experience as does the tattoo studio which feels completely out of space in this sleepy once conservative town.

I would have never pictured Anouk to live a different life to the one she grew up with, too. The only thing that stayed the same is that she still dreams big and cannot shake away to be at least a bit of a nomad. Rosette reminds me a lot of how Anouk was in the first book: a shy and quiet little girl for which the world seems to be too big with magic surrounding her which other would be never able to understand.

As mentioned earlier, I do not remember everything that has happened in the previous books and that is the one big thing that bothers me. There was no overview or little re-introduction to the characters, which made it pretty tough to find my way into the story. So for all of you who read the three previous books, please reread it before you pick up this one so then you can fully enjoy it.

And for those of you who never read the other ones? You can read the book without having the background knowledge, because it focuses mostly on Narcisse. You probably will be okay with understanding the other characters.

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Synopsis | Goodreads

The compelling new novel from the author of the bestselling Chocolat .

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Book review: The Strawberry Thief by Joanne Harris

Harris’ latest inevitably harks back to ‘chocolat’ but is also a tale in its own right.

Published - June 15, 2019 04:20 pm IST

A poster of the 2000 film, ‘Chocolat’.

In her latest book, Joanne Harris brings back Lansquenet-sous-Tannes’ friendly neighbourhood witch, Vianne Rocher. Vianne’s making and scrying with chocolate again; her elder daughter Anouk has stayed behind in Paris and the younger girl Rosette is now a silent 16. She believes that her Maman has made a sinister pact with the wind and let it steal Rosette’s voice, to ensure that she stays with Vianne forever.

Those who haven’t read Chocolat (are there really many of those around?) or The Lollipop Shoes don’t miss out on anything much, since The Strawberry Thief is very much a standalone tale. However, the shadings given to characters invariably hark back to their doings in the earlier books. And for the reader who has forgotten the finer details of Chocolat , there are little mendiants — disks of references — scattered through the book.

It’s the usual JH mix... loads of atmosphere centring around an oak wood and its boarded-up mysterious well, which an elderly resident of the village has inexplicably left to Rosette. The man Narcisse has left behind a confession too, meant only for the curé Reynaud’s eyes. Willy-nilly, the focus shifts almost entirely from Narcisse’s dark secrets to the formerly sinister priest Reynaud. And in the middle of it all, there arrives a mysterious woman with no feet who opens a tattoo parlour across from Vianne’s chocolate shop.

The Strawberry Thief; Joanne Harris, Hachette India, ₹599

This time around, it’s Rosette who has been imbued with magical powers that veer slightly to the dark side. Both Vianne and Rosette are expert wind whisperers, harnessing the breeze, keeping it under control or letting it wreak havoc.

The writing is as dense with detail and evocative as ever, and even as you wonder if the author will wander into twee territory, she pulls back at the last moment. But Vianne Rocher has been reduced to an almost-normal worrying mother here, her manipulative side foremost. Also, the Moroccan motif seems forced: there are stray references to the immigrants who stay near the riverbank and those bits come off as a contrivance. Harris’ strength has always been the different voices she tells her tales in, but this time some of the tonal characteristics of the different narrators seem to converge into one voice.

My main takeaway from this ode to loss was something poignant: Vianne Rocher still believes in the magic of chocolate… and her children humour her.

The writer is a manuscript editor and novelist based in Bengaluru.

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Grab the Lapels

Widening the margins since 2013, the strawberry thief by joanne harris.

Published in 2019, The Strawberry Thief by Joanne Harris is the last book in the Vianne Rocher (a.k.a. Chocolat ) book series. Again, there is a time jump from the previous novel. Vianne Rocher now lives permanently in Lansquenet. She has a chocolate shop again and her daughter Rosette, who is now sixteen. Anouk is twenty-one and has left Lansquenet to move back to Paris to date the boy she met in The Girl With No Shadow . Roux, who is still with Vianne romantically, mostly lives on his river boat instead of with Vianne. Apparently, settling into a permanent home in a quaint French village does not spell family bliss.

The novel begins with the local florist, Narcisse, passing away. He’s been a character since the first novel, but never one we knew well. He hired travelling river people against village wishes, he didn’t go to church, and mostly kept to himself. That is, until his daughter, son-in-law, and grandson moved in because he was getting older. That’s what they say, anyway. It seems more like they’re waiting for him to die so they can find out what’s in his will.

A few years before Narcisse died, he found Rosette, a teen, still mute, still childish for her age, playing in his strawberry field around an old well. After he shouts at her and she runs away, the normally introverted old man locates Rosette hiding in Vianne’s chocolate shop and apologizes; he was worried she would fall in the well and be hurt.

Upon Narcisse’s death, the local priest, Father Reynaud, learns that he is the executor of Narcisse’s will. The men never cared for each other due to differences of opinion about Christianity. But Narcisse’s children are eager to learn what they’re getting, so Reynaud opens the will only to discover the family have been left Narcisse’s farm house, but not his field on which lucrative timber grows. That forest — and the old well and strawberry patch — have been left to Rosette, surprising everyone.

Joanne Harris has three narrators, sticking to a technique she used in the previous books. Father Reynaud and Vianne are narrators again, but for the first time Rosette gets to tell the story from her point of view. Mostly, we’ve watched her use sign language and gestures, drawings and magic. But now we know what she thinks, adding something new to the series. As a fourth narrator (of sorts) is Narcisse’s will, which includes a story he wrote that is for Reynaud’s Eyes Only! In it, he tells what happened to his sister, Mimi, a girl much like Rosette. Although I loved the story of little Mimi and Narcisse as a boy, fully engaged by how they navigated absent parents and a draconian aunt, I wasn’t pleased that Reynaud only saw himself in the story. A secret Narcisse has hidden his whole life causes Reynaud to reflect on a secret he’s always kept, but it’s one we learned about in Chocolat . There were no surprises or tension as a result, especially given the forgivable circumstances of Reynaud’s wrongdoing.

Another aspect of The Strawberry Thief that felt too familiar was the story of a newcomer who opens a store and the village of Lansquenet goes nuts. Citizens become busy bodies, condeming the shop and unable to resist it — just like Vianne’s chocolate shop when she first arrived sixteen years ago. Except this time, instead of the newcomer bearing chocolates, it’s Morgane and her tattooing gun. That’s right; a tattoo shop opens in a village that seems frozen in time. Even Vianne curses the newbie, arguing that Father Reynaud should chase Morgane out of town. Failing to realize the parallels to her own journey, Vianne ends up seeming obtuse and out of character.

To be fair, Joanne Harris suggests Morgane is the reinvented villainess from The Girl With No Shadow , but it’s hard to know what to believe. Rosette is attracted to Morgane without fear, possibly because Morgane is obviously a witch, too, one who doesn’t hide from society. Perhaps that is what Vianne fears: that her daughter will prove she is able to care for herself without her mother by turning to other people and building a community.

At its heart, The Strawberry Thief is about families and separation. Vianne is grateful, and other Christian mothers are jealous, that based on Rosette’s behavior and muteness, Rosette will never “abandon” her mom when she grows up. Oddly, the Muslim mothers of Lansqunet never talk with Vianne about the pains of their children leaving. In fact, they play such a small role in this novel after being the focus of Peaches for Monsieur le Curé that it’s almost like they were neglected by their author. I was a bit disappointed by how easily and in what manner Rosette convinces the village she is capable of independence. In fact, I was reminded of Jessica White’s point in the memoir Hearing Maud about conformity equaling normality.

Overall, my least favorite of the series, so I am glad there are no more. It was hard to tell if Vianne changed because she aged, or if Joanne Harris slowly unlearned her character. If you’re interested in reading these novels, know this: you can happily stop after any book, but if you keep going, you must read them in order and not skip around.

The Vianne Rocher/Chocolat series:

The Girl With No Shadow
Peaches for Monsieur le Curé
The Strawberry Thief

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11 comments

I’ve seen this in the bookstore and had no idea it was connected to Chocolat. Too bad it didn’t make for a strong ending for the series.

I wonder if it’s one of those series that fans were nutty over, so she kept writing even though she wasn’t 100% on board….. L.M. Montgomery faced that pressure, as did Sir Arthur Conan Doyle.

Like Liked by 1 person

It looks like Strawberry Thief (at least) was published after the movie came out so I could definitely see there being some pressure to continue the story. Or just the added incentive of the chance to make more money.

Ah, a shame the series ends rather limply. Personally I think a strong end is more important than a strong beginning; a good beginning may grab more readers initially, but leaving committed fans without a satisfying end isn’t a great way to ensure the story will be remembered fondly, or even remembered at all. I’m glad you had better luck with some of the earlier books at least. Great review.

It’s interesting that I could have stopped anywhere, and it would feel like an end. But readers can’t jump in anywhere, because there is past information you need. You’re either in or out, and that kind of dedication does mean I want a pay off. I hadn’t thought of it that way.

Hm, too bad. It sounds like each book got progressively worse after the first one, sadly. At least you’re done now, and you can cross this series off your list-it was an accomplishment to read all of them nonetheless.

And each book comes on the back of another, so the problem is there are no “fresh starts,” something I get with the Valdemar books. When one trilogy isn’t my jam, there is another trilogy just around the corner.

I enjoyed the first book well enough, but didn’t feel compelled to follow up. Nonetheless, I saw her at a panel at a writer’s festival here a few years ago and did really enjoy what she had to say about telling stories and developing characters. She impressed me.

Because I’ve only read her Chocolat books, I didn’t realize she writes in different genres, so her fans are torn! She has fairy tales and crime novels, for instance.

I love all the books starting with Chocolat. I practice white magic and the sense and feeling of good and bad influences brings a palpable edge to the twists and turns of each plot.

Ever since my mom and I read this series, she’s been hexing people like Vienne, and I have to say, those hexes definitely land on their targets.

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Bookliterati Book Reviews

'I declare there is no enjoyment like reading!" Jane Austen

The Strawberry Thief by Joanne Harris

Hardcover: 368 pages
Publisher: Orion (4 April 2019)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1409170756
ISBN-13: 978-1409170754

But when old Narcisse, the florist, dies, leaving a parcel of land to Rosette and a written confession to Reynaud, the life of the sleepy village is once more thrown into disarray.

The arrival of Narcisse’s relatives, the departure of an old friend and the opening of a mysterious new shop in the place of the florist’s across the square – one that mirrors the chocolaterie, and has a strange appeal of its own – all seem to herald some kind of change: a confrontation, a turbulence – even, perhaps, a murder…

I can’t believe it is twenty years since I spent a day in the garden reading the wonderful and charming Chocolat. Since then we have had the sequel The Lollipop Shoes and now the exciting third book The Strawberry Thief. Vianne is back in Lansquenet-sous Tannes running her chocolate shop with her daughter Rosette, now sixteen, whilst Anouk is living in Paris. After the death of local Narcisse, who leaves Rosette his wood, trouble comes to the small town in the form of his family and a new threat to Vianne blows in on the wind. The book is set during the month of March and narrated by Vianne, Rosette, and Le Curé Reynard, and has excerpts from a letter to Reynard that tells Narcisse’s life story.

It was exciting to be back in Lansquenet and catching up with old characters and meeting new ones. The surprise of this book is that Reynard and Vianne are now friends, he has mellowed over the years and is not as strict on himself. Roux and the river people are still at Les Marauds, Caro Clairmont is still gossiping and Josephine has her cafe; it was like meeting up with old friends. There were also some memorable new characters in Michélè Montour, Narcisse’s horrible daughter, her husband Michel and son Yannick, who I felt very sorry for. The wind blows in the mysterious Morgane Dubois who rents Narcisse’s old shop, and who Vianne sees as a threat to the harmony of her life with Rosette and the community. Rosette is my favourite character, she has the wonderful innocence of children but understands more than people give her credit for. Many feel sorry for her, and Vianne, due to her difference and individuality, but she has such a wonderful outlook on life and has her mother’s gift for the understanding of the wind and is at one with nature; and of course she has Bam for company. Joanne Harris vividly brings these characters, and their quirks to life, making them jump off the page and into your heart.

Joanne Harris’s writing is remarkable, her observations and witty one liners bring the quirks of town life, the petty squabbles and allegiances to life and reminded me why I am such a huge fan of her writing. The attention to detail of the landscape, Rosette’s wood and the boats on the river are a picture postcard in my mind. In contrast to the beautiful setting there is a tale of murder, cruelty, the mother daughter bond and family feuds, that ripple through the quiet and quaint Lansquenet, bringing the wind of change to all.

The Strawberry Thief is a charming, bewitching and simply stunning read. It lived up to all my expectations, and left me feeling fuzzy and warm and incredibly happy; what more could you ask for in a book. I immediately felt familiar with the characters, and the plot had me engaged from the first with a murder mystery and the wind blowing in Morgane to add a bit of trouble to the community. This is a must read for fans of Chocolat , an absolutely fabulous read.

I would like to thank Orion Books and Tracy Fenton at Compulsive Readers for asking me to take part in the blog tour for The Strawberry Thief.

I have made changes on my blog so it is easier to leave comments on my posts. Thank you for taking the time to read my review, and. hope you will share across social media.

4 thoughts on “ The Strawberry Thief by Joanne Harris ”

I don’t know about the listicles.. maybe somewhat reaching.

And that is an investment risk worth taking.

This is true for investment advice as effectively.

I get this, but even so I have a question. Do you mind answering?

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Summer Reads: The Strawberry Thief

The Strawberry Thief cover on eatlivetravelwrite.com

From Joanne Harris, the author of the bestselling Chocolat (the chocolate shop that inspired the book/film is located in Nérac! ), comes The Strawberry Thief , the fourth novel to feature Vianne Rocher.

From the publisher:

Vianne Rocher has settled down. Lansquenet-sous-Tannes, the place that once rejected her, has finally become her home. With Rosette, her ‘special’ child, she runs her chocolate shop in the square, talks to her friends on the river, is part of the community. Even Reynaud, the priest, has become a friend. But when old Narcisse, the florist, dies, leaving a parcel of land to Rosette and a written confession to Reynaud, the life of the sleepy village is once more thrown into disarray. The arrival of Narcisse’s relatives, the departure of an old friend and the opening of a mysterious new shop in the place of the florist’s across the square – one that mirrors the chocolaterie, and has a strange appeal of its own – all seem to herald some kind of change: a confrontation, a turbulence – even, perhaps, a murder…

There are a lot of similarities with Chocolat – the story is set during Lent and focuses on the arrival of an “outsider” who sets up shop in the town under the wary and watchful eyes of the locals (including Vianne who was initially shunned by the villagers). Definitely brings back memories of when Vianne arrived in town during Lent 20 years ago with her daughter Anouk. Now, Anouk lives in Paris and Vianne has moved back to Lansquenet-sous-Tannes permanently with her younger daughter, Rosette.

There are lots of pieces of a puzzle to unwrap in this book – along with Vianne and Rosette’s storyline, there’s a whole plot featuring the deceased flowerseller (which manages to weave in many other characters from the town and the past), we’re also asking ourselves many other questions: why does Narcisse leave a “confession” to Père Reyanud when he’s not even a religious man? Why has Narcisse left a plot of land to Rosette? Why is Narcisse’s father a murderer? So many mysteries and plots to unpack here!

The book is whimsical and lyrical, as is Harris’s style. The story meanders a little, each chapter is written in a different character’s voice and for me, who tends to read a book chapter by chapter on separate days, it took me a little bit of thinking to get into each chapter and “situate myself”. It’s a clever technique, for sure (especially if you have read the other books – though if you have not, this would probably work as a standalone novel too) but I’d recommend trying to read this in one or two sittings so you don’t lose the thread of the storyline. The “confession” Narcisse leaves Père Reynaud, in particular (which is divided over many chapters) is a bit hard to follow if you are reading this in fits and starts.

If you’re a fan of Chocolat , you’ll love this fourth instalment in Vianne’s story (because you’ll probably have been wondering…). If you’ve never read Chocolat , but love reading about small-town France (Lansquenet-sous-Tannes is like any small French town), have a read of this. Harris’s writing style will hook you from the start and you’ll want to keep reading until you know the outcome to all the questions posed throughout. An excellent summer read!

Buy The Strawberry Thief on Amazon (this link should bring you to the Amazon store closest to you) Or for free worldwide shipping , buy on The Book Depository

Please note: I am a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites. This post also contains affiliate links from The Book Depository. This means that if you click over and purchase something, I will receive a very small percentage of the purchase price (at no extra cost to you). Thank you in advance!

Disclosure : I purchased this book for myself. All opinions are my own.

MY BOOK! In the French kitchen with kids is out now! Click here for order details.

In the French Kitchen with Kids cover on eatlivetravelwrite.com

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The Strawberry Thief: The Sunday Times bestselling novel from the author of Chocolat (Chocolat 4)

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The Strawberry Thief: The Sunday Times bestselling novel from the author of Chocolat (Chocolat 4) Kindle Edition

DISAPPEAR INTO THE WORLD OF THE SUNDAY TIMES BESTSELLING CHOCOLAT . . . 'So wise, so atmospheric, so beautifully written' Marian Keyes 'The most magical, stunningly beautiful novel' Joanna Cannon 'It will intrigue and charm readers every bit as much as Chocolat ' Monica Ali --------------------------- Faith. Secret. Magic. Murder...? Vianne Rocher has settled down. Lansquenet-sous-Tannes, the place that once rejected her, has finally become her home. With Rosette, her youngest child, she runs her chocolate shop in the square, talks to her friends on the river, is part of the community. Even Reynaud, the priest, has become a friend. But when old Narcisse, the florist, dies, leaving a parcel of land to Rosette and a written confession to Reynaud, the life of the sleepy village is once more thrown into disarray. Then the opening of a mysterious new shop in the place of the florist's across the square - one that mirrors the chocolaterie, and has a strange appeal of its own - seems to herald a change: a confrontation, a turbulence - even, perhaps, a murder . . . What will the wind blow in today? --------------------------- Return to the world of the multi-million-copy bestselling Chocolat .... 'A writer whose wit and sharp observation enhances her engaging story-telling' Salley Vickers 'The most magical, stunningly beautiful novel . . . I sobbed at the end because I couldn't bear to leave. Joanne is truly one of the world's finest storytellers' Joanna Cannon 'A place of magic and mysteries, and Harris excels in this delicate balance of realism and enchantment . . . It will intrigue and charm readers every bit as much as Chocolat ' Monica Ali 'Sheer pleasure from start to finish. The Strawberry Thief is a delight' James Runcie 'I devoured it in one go' Christopher Fowler 'Compelling, captivating, incredibly moving, The Strawberry Thief whirls you into a thrilling world you will never forget . . . A perfect novel that shimmers with brilliance and truth' Kate Williams

Book 4 of 4 Chocolat
Print length 314 pages
Language English
Sticky notes On Kindle Scribe
Publisher Orion
Publication date 4 April 2019
File size 3108 KB
Page Flip Enabled
Word Wise Enabled
Enhanced typesetting Enabled
See all details

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First 3 £13.97
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This option includes 4 books..

Chocolat: The captivating multi-million copy bestseller

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Peaches for Monsieur le Curé: the enchanting third novel in the beloved Chocolat series from master storyteller Joanne Harris

From the Publisher

Product description

From the back cover, about the author, product details.

ASIN ‏ : ‎ B07GDNDXL4
Publisher ‏ : ‎ Orion (4 April 2019)
Language ‏ : ‎ English
File size ‏ : ‎ 3108 KB
Text-to-Speech ‏ : ‎ Enabled
Screen Reader ‏ : ‎ Supported
Enhanced typesetting ‏ : ‎ Enabled
X-Ray ‏ : ‎ Enabled
Word Wise ‏ : ‎ Enabled
Sticky notes ‏ : ‎ On Kindle Scribe
Print length ‏ : ‎ 314 pages
170 in Fantasy Fairy Tales
172 in Mythology & Folk Tales
237 in Psychological Literary Fiction

About the author

Joanne harris.

Joanne Harris (OBE, FRSL) is the internationally renowned and award-winning author of over twenty novels, plus novellas, cookbooks, scripts, short stories, libretti, lyrics, articles, and a self-help book for writers, TEN THINGS ABOUT WRITING. In 2000, her 1999 novel CHOCOLAT was adapted to the screen, starring Juliette Binoche and Johnny Depp. She holds honorary doctorates from the Universities of Sheffield and Huddersfield, is an honorary Fellow of St Catharine's College, Cambridge, and a Fellow of the Royal Society of Literature.

Her hobbies are listed in Who's Who as 'mooching, lounging, strutting, strumming, priest-baiting and quiet subversion of the system'. She is active on social media, where she writes stories and gives writing tips as @joannechocolat; she posts writing seminars on YouTube; she performs in a live music and storytelling show with the #Storytime Band; and she works from a shed in her garden at her home in Yorkshire.

She also has a form of synaesthesia which enables her to smell colours. Red, she says, smells of chocolate.

Photo ©Frogspawn

Customer reviews

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5 star 4 star 3 star 2 star 1 star 1 star 59% 27% 10% 2% 2% 2%

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Customers say

Customers find the fantasy/adventure enchanting, symbolic, and well-written. They also describe the characters as great and inspirational. Opinions are mixed on the taste and emotional resonance, with some finding it disappointing and others finding it very emotional.

AI-generated from the text of customer reviews

Customers find the fantasy/adventure book enchanting, evocative, and beautifully written. They also say the chapters help the reader understand the character and read her thoughts. Customers also mention the book is mysterious and magical.

"...What follows is a magical, evocative tale , narrated through three voices - chapters are told by Vianne, Francis Reynaud and Rosette in turn...." Read more

"...Rosette also has a POV, and her chapters help the reader understand her , allowing us to read her thoughts, even if she doesn’t vocalise them...." Read more

"...As I expected, this is a book telling us stories with poetry and and magic which lays ghosts to rest. A beautiful conclusion to the tale." Read more

"...Vianne Rocher and one which is filled with some enjoyable descriptions of situation and setting ..." Read more

Customers find the writing style well written, beautifully woven, and great to hear things from Joanne Harris's point of view. They also say the humanity is soft, frail, and strong.

"...Harris's writing is effortless and elegant, and her ability to bring the characters and story alive through a narrative in several voices is..." Read more

"if you enjoyed Chocolat you will want to read this novel too. so beautifully woven by Joanne Harris. A taste of magic and psychology...." Read more

"...the previous three 'Chocolat' novels, this is an enjoyable and easily readable story which yet again transports the reader into the mystical and..." Read more

"...Unfortunately, it didn't really go anywhere, there was just too much repetition in describing the same event or emotion...." Read more

Customers find the characters in the book great, peopled with humanity, and classic Joanne Harris.

"...What a special place. What incredible characters . A true treat." Read more

"...There is good character development for Reynauld , and Rosette is an interesting and sympathetic character...." Read more

"...hooked enough after 25% of this emerging story, the tantalising depth of the characters and the sumptuous, evocative, delicious prose that you could..." Read more

"...first I wasn't going to like this book as the characters were constantly changing in each chapter and it took time to work out WHO was speaking and..." Read more

Customers find the author inspirational, mentioning depths of thought and experience. They also appreciate the new magical discoveries and transformational reading experience.

"A wonderful , insightful and magical book. Beautifully written as always,the message evocative and enduring...." Read more

"...well paced, with attention-grabbing characters and depths of thought and experience ...others are superficial, hurried, sketchy and dull...i have..." Read more

"...story holds your attention with the softness of chocolate and new magical discoveries ...." Read more

"... Transformative . Sad, but not. Magical, but present NOW and speaking NOW, not in distance or in time...." Read more

Customers find the book atmospheric and full of magic. They also appreciate the beautiful descriptions of the atmospheric weather and locations.

"...in the series and once again this book delivers intriguing and atmospheric always feeling that your are actually living in the village, I was..." Read more

"I loved this book. Atmospheric & full of magic, the much loved characters sprung boldly from the page...." Read more

"...a joy to be reacquainted with these old friends Beautiful descriptions of the atmospheric weather and locations ...." Read more

"...to read out loud and savour the words in this hugely enjoyable, atmospheric and imaginative story." Read more

Customers are mixed about the taste of the book. Some find it wonderful, tantalizing, and insightful into what makes people tick. Others say it's disappointing, poorly researched, and feels as if it was cut short.

"...so beautifully woven by Joanne Harris. A taste of magic and psychology . An understanding of how the past colours our future and present...." Read more

"... I enjoyed the magic , the flavours, smells and nature in these novels but I admit I did skip some descriptive passages when they took me away from..." Read more

"...other books have moved with pace and take you on a journey, this one was disappointing ." Read more

"...I’ve come to expect from the series, great characters, delicious chocolate , magic and small-town life in Lansquenet-sous-Tannes which is interrupted..." Read more

Customers are mixed about the emotional resonance of the book. Some mention that some parts were very emotional, atmospheric, and lyrical, while others say it's darker, stranger, sadder, and guiltier.

"...Transformative. Sad , but not. Magical, but present NOW and speaking NOW, not in distance or in time...." Read more

"...This is a darker, stranger book, sadder and guiltier , more like the Lollipop Shoes, but without the naive narration of Anouk to lighten it...." Read more

"Every word connects and fills the holes in my heart . I understand why this book reached number one and recommend it wholeheartedly" Read more

"...to lack some of the joy found in the other books and in a way it felt rather sad ." Read more

Customers are mixed about the originality of the book. Some find it unique, interesting, and different to their usual genre. They also describe it as quirky, atmospheric, and well written. However, some customers feel the book is cloying and contrived in some parts.

"...There is good character development for Reynauld, and Rosette is an interesting and sympathetic character...." Read more

"...read, I found it just a touch cloying in some parts and a little contrived in others , especially the sections of the story where Narcisse's past..." Read more

"...this emerging story, the tantalising depth of the characters and the sumptuous , evocative, delicious prose that you could almost taste that I had to..." Read more

"...depths of thought and experience...others are superficial, hurried, sketchy and dull...i have occasionally wondered if they were written by an..." Read more

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The Strawberry Thief book review

The Strawberry Thief is a book that comes with strong credentials as it is written by Joanne Harris. In 2000, her 1999 novel Chocolat was adapted to the screen, starring Juliette Binoche and Johnny Depp. She is an honorary Fellow of St Catharine’s College, Cambridge, and in 2013 was awarded an MBE by the Queen. I was expecting great things and I was not disappointed. I would not call this book a typical page turner although others do. Rather it is like a very fine French red wine that is there to be indulged in and to be savoured over time. Like the best of wines, there are undertones that intrigue and delight. Like a wine, you can enjoy the anticipation as you get the first hint of its magic from the nose, enjoy the experience of the drinking in of the story and then cherish the memories made during that particular soiree. This is my The Strawberry Thief book review.

The Strawberry Thief book review – setting

As a reader, you are transported to the fictional French village of Lansquenet-sous-Tannes. I have lived in France for a period and the rich writing really gets over that special air of a French village full of characters and a wonderful culture. We have the chocolaterie, the florist and the church. We have very diverse characters living their lives and confronting their challenges as best they can.

The Strawberry Thief

There are changes in the village first sensed and then coming firmly into view. The Strawberry Thief centres around the will of village florist Narcisse, who leaves his land to Vianne’s very special and unique daughter, Rosette. This causes annoyance to say the least to his own blood relatives. Another legacy is a written confession for Father Reynaud which will evoke strong emotions in the priest. Vianne will also face new challenges and feelings as a new shop opens in the village. The book has chapters in the voices of Vianne the mother, Rosette the daughter with special needs and Reynaud the priest.

Reflections on villages and life

The novel made me reflect on something my late Dad told me not too long before he became terminally ill. “Life changes” he said. It sounds quite a trite saying but the way he said it delivered a meaning and perhaps a prediction of what would play out in our family life all too soon. When I arrived in a charming French village for a new adventure, I loved the friendliness of the place and the strong characters. I wanted it to stay the same forever and actually believed it could. Time tells a different story with one of my favourite male characters moving away, with the end of romantic relationships and the start of new ones. The village has seen business changes, disputes and deaths. There is even talk of murder so I can see parallels between a village I know well in France and the village in the Strawberry Thief.

More to life than we know

I loved how this novel got over a concept my late mum used to share with me that there is more to this life than we know. I think the concept she talked of has many layers to it. There are the secrets and shames we keep to ourselves terrified that they may be revealed at some point. There are our fears of change. There are our instincts and feelings. Why did my mum always fear Concorde convinced it would harm our family? How can we meet someone and know that we know them on a heart level even on our first meeting? Is it the people who are often rejected or seen as outsiders who end up being the ones who can contribute most to the world? Is there a magic behind all this?

The writing

I cannot rate Joanne Harris’ writing highly enough. It is poetic and beautiful. It gets over the characters in great detail. It is a complex tale as characters in the village learn to navigate each other. I have heard other reviewers use words like magical, enchanting and gothic and quite fairly too. I think it is the type of book that every individual will get something different from much like life, wine. chocolate and strawberries.

I hope you enjoyed The Strawberry Thief Book Review

Please take a look at my other book reviews .

Kate Davis-Holmes

Award-winning writer, blogger, social media consultant and charity campaigner. Social Media Manager for BritMums, the UK's largest parent blogging network Freelance clients include Firefly Communications and Save the Children UK. Works with brands on marketing projects. Examples include Visit Orlando, Give As You Live, Coca-Cola and Kodak. Cambridge Law graduate with many years experience working across three sectors in advice, media relations, events, training and project management. Available for hire at affordable rates.

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It sounds a nice read but I’m not sure that it is one for me #readwithme

shelllouiseblog

It’s a change from my usual choice, but I really like the sound of this one.

Chantelle Hazelden (@MamaMummyMum)

Oooo I love your review, I am however in two minds as to whether I’d really enjoy reading this myself! #readwithme

This sounds like a really good read and would make a nice change from my usual diet of psychological thrillers. I’m not sure whether I’ve ever read a Joanne Harris before.

Heather Keet

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The Strawberry Thief by Joanne Harris – review

I t is 20 years since Joanne Harris published Chocolat , her bestselling novel adapted into an Oscar-nominated film starring Juliette Binoche and Judi Dench. The Strawberry Thief, Harris’s fourth novel following the life of chocolatier Vianne Rocher, shares much with the original in terms of theme and setting. Again, the location is the sleepy fictional village of Lansquenet-sous-Tannes in south-west France. Again, the time of year is Lent, provoking tensions between abstinence and self-fulfilment. And as with Chocolat , the arrival of a stranger to the village precipitates community tensions, questions of faith and loyalty, and fear of the unknown.

The interloper in The Strawberry Thief is Morgane Dubois, a tattooist with an uncanny ability to know the image her clients need inked on to their skin. Her arrival follows the death of the elderly florist, Narcisse, whose empty shop Morgane occupies. Much to the fury of Narcisse’s daughter, Michèle, he has left a parcel of land to Vianne’s younger daughter, Rosette, a bequest that leads to conflict and subterfuge.

Meanwhile, Narcisse, while never having been a religious man during his life, has left a lengthy written confession with the priest, Reynaud, a document that not only reveals tragedies from Narcisse’s life, but also triggers Reynaud’s guilt and self-loathing about an incident from his own past.

Mysticism and mystery abound in The Strawberry Thief . In Morgane’s tattoo parlour, clients see reflections in mirrors of people who are not present or glimpse scenes from their past they would rather forget. The wind is a constant presence – and a constant refrain – signalling both change and the threat of danger: “This is what happens, I told myself, when you try to call the wind... it takes and it keeps on taking until everything is blown away.”

Where Chocolat is a novel about the conflict between church and the individual, between pleasure and denial, The Strawberry Thief focuses on the conflicts within families. Vianne holds the secret as to why her 16-year-old daughter, Rosette, cannot speak and is tormented by the absence of her older daughter, Anouk, now living with her boyfriend in Paris. Harris writes sensitively about the precarious bond between mothers and children: “All children are stolen, my mother says. We keep them close, as long as we can. But one day, the world will steal them back.”

While Harris creates an atmospheric landscape, the novel’s storytelling might have benefited from tighter pacing. Narcisse’s lengthy confession is stolen, retrieved and returned, a MacGuffin serving predominantly to spur the novel’s living characters into action. And while Reynaud’s torment about a childhood crime adds depth to his character, his self-flagellating the narrative down. However, Harris undeniably creates an evocative world in The Strawberry Thief, and in her explorations of magic, family, grief and recovery, it is sure to delight fans of Chocolat .

Joanne Harris
The Observer

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The Strawberry Thief: The Sunday Times bestselling novel from the author of Chocolat

By Joanne Harris

DISAPPEAR INTO THE WORLD OF THE SUNDAY TIMES BESTSELLING CHOCOLAT . . .

‘So wise, so atmospheric, so beautifully written’ Marian Keyes ‘The most magical, stunningly beautiful novel’ Joanna Cannon ‘It will intrigue and charm readers every bit as much as Chocolat’ Monica Ali

Faith. Secret. Magic. Murder…?

Vianne Rocher has settled down. Lansquenet-sous-Tannes, the place that once rejected her, has finally become her home. With Rosette, her youngest child, she runs her chocolate shop in the square, talks to her friends on the river, is part of the community. Even Reynaud, the priest, has become a friend.

But when old Narcisse, the florist, dies, leaving a parcel of land to Rosette and a written confession to Reynaud, the life of the sleepy village is once more thrown into disarray. Then the opening of a mysterious new shop in the place of the florist’s across the square – one that mirrors the chocolaterie, and has a strange appeal of its own – seems to herald a change: a confrontation, a turbulence – even, perhaps, a murder . . .

What will the wind blow in today?

Return to the world of the multi-million-copy bestselling Chocolat….

‘A writer whose wit and sharp observation enhances her engaging story-telling’ Salley Vickers

‘The most magical, stunningly beautiful novel . . . I sobbed at the end because I couldn’t bear to leave. Joanne is truly one of the world’s finest storytellers’ Joanna Cannon

‘A place of magic and mysteries, and Harris excels in this delicate balance of realism and enchantment . . . It will intrigue and charm readers every bit as much as Chocolat’ Monica Ali

‘Sheer pleasure from start to finish. The Strawberry Thief is a delight’ James Runcie

‘I devoured it in one go’ Christopher Fowler

‘Compelling, captivating, incredibly moving, The Strawberry Thief whirls you into a thrilling world you will never forget . . . A perfect novel that shimmers with brilliance and truth’ Kate Williams

Resources for this book

The Strawberry Thief Reading Group Guide

[email protected]

I wasn't sure about this book, I found it hard to get to grips with the story at first. Having enjoyed Joanne Harris's previous novels, I still liked her descriptions of places in the village and relationships and the magical elements she uses to enhance the story. I became confused with the rifts and jealousy in Narcisse's family!

However it wasn't until near the end of Narcisse's letter that I realised the story was about fears, burdens of guilt and absolution. I felt that Vianne's fear of change of losing her daughters was well written and believable. Perhaps this ending of part of her life will lead to a new story.

My book group read the Strawberry Thief and we all agreed to review it after receiving free copies. I read Chocolat many years ago and the descriptions and detail of the French countryside and all that happens in the life of the villagers is similar and enjoyable. However I didn’t feel that the story hung together as well and found some of the characters rather irritating, particularly Zozie whose back story and arrival and involvement in the village seemed rather contrived. There were thought provoking parent/ child relationships to think about as the story progressed, Vianne with both her daughters and also within Narcisse’s family. I’m not a big fan of magical realism and think this lessened my appreciation of what is a well written novel and a not a bad read.

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Joanne Harris

Website of the author, joanne harris, the strawberry thief: readers’ group guide.

Are you reading THE STRAWBERRY THIEF as part of a readers’ group? Here are some questions and resources to help get you started. Warning: questions may contain spoilers, so make sure you read the book first, if you care about that kind of thing…

Summary : This is the fourth book in a series that began with CHOCOLAT. You don’t have to read them all to understand this book, but if you’d rather know more, here’s a quick summary of the previous books.

Click here for a summary of CHOCOLAT.

Click here for THE LOLLIPOP SHOES.

Click here for PEACHES FOR MONSIEUR LE CURE.

Background resources.

One of the recurring visuals in this novel is William Morris’ Strawberry Thief design. Find out more about it here.

Want to know more about the history of tattooing? Click here to find out!

An old traditional French/Canadian folk song acts as a leitmotif in the book. Find out more about its meaning and origin here .

Vianne’s story is closely linked to the history and folklore of chocolate. Find out more about it here.

Fancy a tipple? Here’s a link to some delicious chocolate cocktail recipes you can use to get your readers’ group in the mood…

Questions for discussion.

What do you think is the significance of Rosette’s “secret voice”? Why does it have to be secret?
Why do you think the unconventional Vianne is so very protective of her daughters?
What is the significance of the changing wind to Vianne? How does Rosette’s attitude to it differ from her mother’s?
In this book, Vianne is an accepted member of the village community, and Morgane is the outsider. Why then is Vianne so suspicious of her?
In what way does Morgane’s arrival change the chemistry of the village community?
Why do you think the author chose to give Morgane prosthetic feet? What effect does this have on the way people see her?
In what ways do Morgane’s designs reveal her clients’ secrets?
In what way has Reynaud’s feelings of guilt over the events of his past affected the way in which he behaves and relates to other people?
Why do you think Narcisse left his confession to Reynaud?
What is the importance of Narcisse’s confession – to Reynaud, to Vianne, to the Montour family and to Rosette – as the story develops?
The strawberry is a powerful symbol in this book. What does it mean to each of the main characters?
What do you think Vianne’s tattoo means to her, and how will this affect her relationships?
Rosette’s “imaginary friend”, Bam, expresses feelings that Rosette herself is not always able to express. In what ways do the other main characters express their innermost feelings?
The theme of the outsider is central to this novel. In what way is belonging important to: Vianne? Rosette? Morgane? Reynaud?
Why do you think that Narcisse sees his little sister, Mimi, in Rosette?
The theme of marking is important in this novel. People are marked by: their experiences, the past, grief, and by the physical process of tattooing. How does the author bring out this theme for each of the main characters? What do you think has marked you most in your life?
A number of the child characters in this book stand out because of their physical and neurological differences. Why has the author chosen to focus on this, and what do you think the effect of it is?
Narcisse’s confession is a catalyst for Reynaud’s redemption, allowing him to move on at last from the events of his past. What do you think he will do now?
Vianne is bereft when Anouk moves away. To what extent do you think this novel is a story about dealing with the loss of a child?
The senses play an important role in this novel. In what ways does the author use scent, taste and colours to evoke different ideas and sesations?

Book review - The Strawberry Thief

Gina Rogers reviews The Strawberry Thief by Joanne Harris - a new novel from the author of Chocolat.

Joanne Harris
The Strawberry Thief

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Nov 24, 11am ~~ Review asap. Nov 24, 1115pm ~~ This 2019 book is the fourth that features the characters from 1999's Chocolat. I have just read the books in order one right after the other, and I must say that after Chocolat, this was my favorite. ... Knowing that his Strawberry Thief would always treasure it, as it is a special place. Still ...
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In The Strawberry Thief, the story continues. But let's make a quick jump back into the past to the year 2000 when the movie Chocolat, starring Juliette Binoche and Johnny Depp, was released. Based on the novel written by Joanne Harris (published in 1999), Chocolat tells the story of single mother Vianne Rocher and her daughter Anouk who want ...
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The Strawberry Thief by Joanne Harris. Published in 2019, The Strawberry Thief by Joanne Harris is the last book in the Vianne Rocher (a.k.a. Chocolat) book series. Again, there is a time jump from the previous novel. Vianne Rocher now lives permanently in Lansquenet. She has a chocolate shop again and her daughter Rosette, who is now sixteen.
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The Strawberry Thief is a charming, bewitching and simply stunning read. It lived up to all my expectations, and left me feeling fuzzy and warm and incredibly happy; what more could you ask for in a book. I immediately felt familiar with the characters, and the plot had me engaged from the first with a murder mystery and the wind blowing in ...
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The Strawberry Thief is a delight' James Runcie 'I devoured it in one go' Christopher Fowler 'Compelling, captivating, ... Anyway, on to the review. This book had a lot of ups and downs for me. The biggest downer being that Anouk was missing from all but the last pages of the book. She was so important in the other novels. I was disappointed ...
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Find helpful customer reviews and review ratings for The Strawberry Thief: ... In this book, as stated in many reviews, Vianne, monsieur le Curé, Roux, and other characters reappear. However, the book never grabbed me by the throat as some others did. It is heavy with magic realism, myth and real magic.
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The Strawberry Thief is a delight' James Runcie 'I devoured it in one go' Christopher Fowler 'Compelling, captivating, incredibly moving, The Strawberry Thief whirls you into a thrilling world you will never forget . . . A perfect novel that shimmers with brilliance and truth' Kate Williams
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Gina Rogers reviews The Strawberry Thief by Joanne Harris - a new novel from the author of Chocolat. ... Book review - The Strawberry Thief. From Nine To Noon, 10:35 am on 17 April 2019. Share this. Share on Twitter; Share on Facebook; Share via email; Share on Reddit; Share on Linked In;
The Strawberry Thief by Joanne Harris
Lansquenet-sous-Tannes, the place that once rejected her, has finally become her home. With Rosette, her youngest child, she runs her chocolate shop in the square, talks to her friends on the river, is part of the community. Even Reynaud, the priest, has become a friend. But when old Narcisse, the florist, dies, leaving a parcel of land to ...
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The Strawberry Thief
Vianne Rocher has settled down. Lansquenet-sous-Tannes, the place that once rejected her, has finally become her home. With Rosette, her youngest child, she runs her chocolate shop in the square, talks to her friends on the river, is part of the community. Even Reynaud, the priest, has become a friend. But when old Narcisse, the florist, dies ...

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