The French Ingredient: Making a Life in Paris One Lesson at a Time

A proud Chicagoan, Bertch never imagined she would return to Paris after a high school trip that left her disillusioned with a city known for its romance. But that is exactly where she found herself after being transferred from London to Paris by the bank she was working for at the time. Although it took some time for her to adjust to Parisian culture (and speak French well), Bertch soon fell in love with the city. After playing a game with friends who asked her what her dream job would be, she realized it was opening a French cooking school in Paris. This memoir outlines her dream and the process it took to bring her love of food and Paris together, all while learning the nuances of French culture and cuisine and gaining confidence in her own abilities. Barrie Kreinik’s narration brings forth the love, excitement, heartache, and strength it took Bertch to build her business, La Cuisine, and navigate tumultuous events along the way.