Historical Fiction Novel - 2025
Le Chef - The Exodus Seed
While preparing for a private dining event, American celebrity Chef William Laurent browses the culinary bible Le Guide Culinaire, written in 1923 by French chef Georges Auguste Escoffier.
In it, he discovers the initials of three men who should not have been connected: Kaiser Wilhelm II of Germany, German plant geneticist Carl Correns, and American Pulitzer Prize-winning author Ernest Hemingway.
With his curiosity piqued, William travels to the French Riviera, home to the Escoffier museum, where he hopes to learn the connection between the three men. However, while visiting the museum, William unwittingly sets off alarms and is chased by mercenaries.
Using his wits, connections, and knowledge of the Côte d’Azur, Chef William, with the help of his wife, a family of Niçois fishmongers, and the mysterious Woman With Auburn Hair, unravels a dangerous century-old secret that could alter the balance of power in the modern world.
James Sevier
James Sevier, a chef, writer, moderator of TIME 100 Talks, and TEDx speaker, has spent a significant part of his life traveling for both business and pleasure. It was during that time that he developed his culinary skills and gathered the life experiences necessary to write his book.
In his debut historical fiction novel, Le Chef, James draws on his culinary interests and life experiences to craft a riveting story that spans from the dawn of the Second Industrial Revolution to the present day.
“I have always been inspired by writers such as Scalzi, Clansey, and Child. I appreciate how they not only tell a great story, but also give readers insight into how their characters feel. This is how I have written Le Chef.”
James is currently living on the French Riviera, where he is working on Book 2 of the Le Chef Series. He is also continuing to expand his experiences and culinary knowledge while traveling with his wife throughout Europe.
News & Reviews
22/9/2022: Le Chef Synopsis Written.
Today, work began on a story that has been running around in my head since becoming a chef. It is about a celebrity Chef who uncovers a secret that has the potential to destroy the modern world.
20/8/2023: Le Chef first draft completed!
I am happy with the character development, but the storyline has gaps that I am finding hard to fill.
12/2/2024: Line Editing completed.
Grueling process, but now that it’s done, I can focus on shoring up the story.
9/12/2024: Early Review.
“I read the manuscript three times and loved it more with each reading. It reminds me of two of my favorite authors: Clive Cussler and Tom Clancy. I am intrigued by the Hemingway angle and can't wait to read the next installment. I really don't have any criticisms. The dialog is very natural and flows well.” C.B.
28/5/2025: Le Chef Manuscripted Completed!
I am beginning the process of marketing the book. I am sending the manuscript to a few trusted friends for their thoughts. I still haven’t decided on publishing options.
29/6/25: Literary Agent Submission Sent
After receiving excellent reviews on the manuscript, I have contacted a literary agency and submitted Le Chef for their review. Wish me luck.