“Love and Saffron” is a gentle story about friendship that can be savored in one sitting. It begins when 27- year old Joan Bergstrom sends a fan letter as well as a gift of saffron to 59 year-old Imogen Fortier. An unlikely friendship is formed and these women commune with eachother, exchanging letters, recipes, dreams and fears. Their friendship sustains them through the turbulence of 1960s- the assassination of John Kennedy, the Cold War, and unexpected personal tragedy and triumphs.

At the forefront of their correspondence is food- they share different recipes they learnt from their life journeys. Joan is an expert in Californian cuisine, heavily influenced by Mexican recipes and culture, while Imogen’s culinary skills are influenced by her region, Seattle.

Joan and Imogen’s friendship grows beyond sharing recipes. Joan’s gift of saffron awakens an old memory in Imogen’s husband, and with that, breathes new life into her marriage.

‘Love and Saffron’ is written as a series of letters exchanged between Imogen and Joan. I found that a very intimate touch, and it often felt like reading a private exchange. Writing letters as an art form, is lost in our society so it was a nice touch to read.

I really enjoyed this novel- it is a testament to the power of food to make friendships. I love that the author made our 2 protagonists vastly different in age and experience. It breathes more life into this book.

‘To think we are made up of so many different layers, and we may never meet all of them before the big sleep.’

Kim Fay, from “Love and Saffron.”

There’s also subtle social commentary on gender roles , discrimination, and gentrification but it doesn’t overwhelm their story. It left me with tender feelings and memories of these 2 women I do not know, but have touched me through the pages of this novel.

I highly recommend if you’re interested in a novella about friendship and food.

‘The less we cement ourselves to our certainties, the fuller our lives can be.’

Kim Fay, from “Love and Saffron.”