The Peasant Gourmet Chef

My Thoughts on The Peasant Gourmet Chef

Alright, let's dive into "The Peasant Gourmet Chef." This novel promised a blend of fantasy, romance, and a whole lot of cooking in an ancient China setting. Having finished it, I can say it delivered on some fronts more than others.

First Impressions

Initially, I was intrigued by the premise. A transmigration story where the protagonist, a modern-day chef, finds herself in the body of an abusive and overweight wife? That's certainly a unique starting point. The initial chapters hooked me with the promise of a redemption arc, both for the female lead (FL) and potentially the male lead (ML), her ex-husband.

What Works Well

The cooking aspect is definitely a highlight. While not as intensely detailed as some other foodie novels, the descriptions of the dishes and the FL's culinary skills are enough to make your stomach rumble. I appreciated how the author used her cooking abilities to build relationships and a thriving business. The FL's interactions with her son, the "lil bun," were also incredibly heartwarming. I found myself rooting for her as she gradually earned his trust and helped him develop his talents.

The romance, while controversial for some, ultimately won me over. The ML starts off disliking the FL due to the original owner's actions, but his gradual realization of her changed nature and his subsequent efforts to win her back were compelling. I enjoyed the slow-burn development of their relationship and the FL's initial reluctance, which felt justified given the circumstances.

Areas of Concern

One aspect that might deter some readers is the initial premise of the FL ending up with her ex-husband. I can see how this could be off-putting, especially since the FL has no prior emotional connection to him. The early chapters, where the FL is begging the ML not to divorce her, might also be frustrating for readers who prefer a more assertive protagonist.

Final Verdict

Overall, "The Peasant Gourmet Chef" is a solid read if you're looking for a heartwarming story about family, food, and second chances. While the initial premise and some character choices might not appeal to everyone, the FL's resilience, the adorable mother-son relationship, and the ML's redemption arc ultimately make for an enjoyable experience. I'd recommend it to fans of slice-of-life C-novels with a focus on cooking and romance.