The Saturday Night Supper Club

I recently read this engaging book written by Carla Laureano— it was such a fun read, I just have to share it with you! The story surrounds the long-time friendship of three women: Rachel, an award-winning chef; Ana, a crisis management associate at a large publicity firm; and Melody, a baker and pastry chef.

If you like Carla’s writing, there are two more books in this series, Brunch at the Bittersweet Café and The Solid Grounds Coffee Company. Each book deals with their insecurities and struggles as they strive to follow where God is leading them. The Saturday Night Supper Club focuses on Rachel, who has achieved her dream of owning a popular restaurant, only to be pushed out by her partners. There is a romance in the story which adds to the fun, but it’s the lessons Rachel learns in rebuilding her reputation and business that have stuck with me.

I love to cook and bake and think it would have been fun to be a chef or own a dessert business in another life, so I was able to live vicariously through Rachel. I’m also in the process of starting a new business. In the midst of self-doubt and questioning her circumstances, Rachel is told, “Here’s the thing about dreams. Everyone thinks that if something is meant to be, it’s going to come easy. Life isn’t easy. It isn’t supposed to be. Doing something worthwhile takes sacrifice.”

No one likes difficulties or having to sacrifice, but I’ve certainly learned sacrifice to achieve something worthwhile is definitely worth it. Take parenting, going to college, or building a business. Anyone who’s been alive any length of time can also attest to the fact life isn’t easy. Put another way, “In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart, I have overcome the world.” (John 16:33)

I love God’s Word and His promises, don’t you?

Another lesson Rachel learns is, “Nothing’s wasted. Not with God. Sometimes you just need to have faith that He’s got what’s next.” Someone told me a long time ago everything that happens to us is sifted through God’s hands first. Isaiah 55:8 explains it even better when God says, “‘For My thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways My ways,’ declares the Lord. ‘For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are My ways higher than your ways and My thoughts than your thoughts.’” We just have to trust in His wisdom and sovereignty.

The thing I love about reading books like this is seeing God work in someone else’s life, even if they are fictional. I know their lessons come from a place of truth in the author’s life, or someone they know who made an impact on them. I hope you invest the time to read this book for the pure enjoyment it will bring, but also so you can let it seep into your spirit and encourage you!

Blessings to you,
Lori  

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