It’s official! Today is the pub date of my latest book in the Savoring the Olde Ways series. My book, Searching for Family and Traditions at the French Table, Book Two is now available for sale at any, and all bookstores world-wide.  

(Now available for ordering)

Advance Praise for Book Two

Kirkus Reviews called it a “ . . . straightforward narrative (that) delivers vivid imagery of both the surroundings and the people…An engaging gastronomic presentation of French history and culture.” 

The Good Life France raved, saying, “Bumpus weaves wonderful stories into her adventures. But, at the same time, she gives her readers fly-on-the-wall glimpses of ordinary family life, and the opportunity to savour with her the incredible cuisine of France. Whether you love France, enjoy discovering new things, want to try some of the traditional recipes at the end of this book, or just want a thoroughly enjoyable read, I highly recommend this book!” 

Foreword Clarion Reviews stated “Book Two is an eloquent melting pot of a travel memoir, concerned with cuisine and culture, too. Picking up from where the first book ended, Bumpus continues moving through France to write about families, food, and traditional values . . .They travel through Nord-Pas-de-Calais, Normandy, Brittany, the Loire Valley, and Auvergne, meeting with a variety of memorable people as they taste and discover traditional recipes and unravel the mystery surrounding Josiane’s family history . . . Bumpus’ prose is lyrical, conveying the romance of France in each location, interview, and observation . . . Bumpus’ attention to detail creates a rich sense of people and places. The food that Bumpus tastes and writes about is unforgettable, thanks to the array of included recipes with unusual names . . .In among the geography, history, and food are human stories of belonging and connection . . .” 

Story Circle Book Reviews – “…her conversational style easily draws the reader into the experience. An enjoyable book for those interested in France, WWII, and French food.” 

The Columbia Reviews – “5 Stars – Title: A French culinary extravaganza! I have eagerly awaited this, the second part of Carole Bumpus’ culinary tour searching for family and traditions at the French table, and I was not disappointed . . . For those of us who love France and also who have a deep respect and interest in the tales of the older generations, this book is a real gem. Carole and Josiane are invited into many households on their travels, and they provide wonderful snapshots of the families, their history and that of the regions. The book is overflowing with descriptions of the wonderful regional produce and tales of times gone by . . . This book captures the French people, their love of family and friends, their generosity, and their passion for sharing good quality fresh local food. The author has generously ended the book with a collection of some of the wonderful recipes for us to enjoy making in our kitchens, whilst embracing the flavors and traditions of French family life . . . Throughout it, however, the devastating effect the World Wars have reeked on families, and communities is heart-breaking. Yet despite this these people have survived and carried on with fortitude. The tragedies have given strength to this nation, emboldened them with incredible comradeship, and inspired the bravery of the resistance.  In conclusion, I would highly recommend this excellent book, and I am sure it will be enjoyed by anyone loving, France, cooking, traditions, and history.

Official Virtual Book Launch
September 3, 2020 – 5pm


I am thrilled to announce that my official “Launch Date” for this book is September 3rd at 5 p.m. (PDT) in conjunction with Books, Inc. – Palo Alto. Thank you! Thank you, Books, Inc.  No, we will not be able to meet at the bookstore, as this will be a Zoom event from my kitchen, where I will be in conversation with good friend and editor, Darlene Frank. Please join us, all decked out in your finest apron and holding your favorite glass of wine, as we will chat and toast this most auspicious day! (In normal times at book events, I would be serving you French champagne and amuse bouche. (Sigh!) Until we can meet in person, we will celebrate together in pandemic style.)

To join us, be sure to sign up by clicking here

Also, RSVPs to the Books, Inc. event are linked via Eventbrite and include three options: Free, buy Savoring the Olde Ways, or Pay What You Can. If you wish to have your books autographed, I will make arrangements accordingly.

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