In 1944 James Gould is sent to Naples to act as the wedding officer, responsible for approving marriage requests between English soldiers and Italian women. His aggressive campaign to sort out real love matches from those pushed by schemers makes him extremely unpopular until the locals learn his soft spot – Italian cooking.

They hire a comely widow known for her culinary skills to cook for the British officers. His hard line towards the local black market and the hopeful brides softens as James falls hard for his chef’s fiery temperament and succulent fare. This tale will have particular appeal to those who enjoyed reading about Italy and food in Under the Tuscan Sun and The Food of Love.

Sarah, www.cadl.org’s Adult Selection Specialist, suggests books that will linger in your mind.