This was one of the most unique books I've ever read, and I ADORED it. Stradal tells the engrossing story of Eva Thorvald, chef-savant with a one in a million palate, but not from her point of view. Each chapter is about a particular dish that pertains to someone in Eva's life in one way or another, and it really is like a collection of short stories. But one by one, they piece together the puzzle of her life in the most deft and subtle way. I was blown away by how I felt as if I knew the main character, without ever hearing her inner dialogue. There seemed to be a hint of magical realism, which I enjoy, and I loved that the author trusts the reader to fill in the gaps to find the story. It is one of the very few books I would re-read to learn more, knowing how it comes together - just fantastic stuff.