How to Read Christine Simon’s Books
As of now, Christine Simon is a single-book author, which makes starting her work incredibly straightforward. Her debut novel is a standalone story that wraps up beautifully, meaning you do not need to worry about cliffhangers or missing backstories. However, she has teased future projects set in similar whimsical universes, so keeping track of her growing bibliography is highly recommended for fans of cozy, small-town farces.
Publication Order of Standalone Novels
- The Patron Saint of Second Chances (2022)
Spotlight on Prometto: The Patron Saint of Second Chances
Published in April 2022, The Patron Saint of Second Chances is a masterclass in modern comedic farce. The story transports readers to Prometto, Italy—a crumbling, fictional village home to just 212 residents. The town is facing a financial crisis: they need 70,000 euros to repair their aging water pipes, or the town will be shut down.
Enter Signor Speranza, the self-appointed mayor and local vacuum cleaner repairman. In a desperate bid to save his beloved home, Speranza concocts a wild rumor that the famous (and real-life) movie star Dante Rinaldi is coming to Prometto to film his next big movie. His hope is that the rumor will bring tourists and investment. However, the lie quickly spirals out of control. Soon, the entire town is convinced they are making a movie, forcing Speranza to actually write a script and cast the locals—including a butcher's fifteen sons—to keep the ruse alive.
Upcoming Works and Teased Projects
While The Patron Saint of Second Chances remains her sole published novel, Simon has discussed upcoming projects. Among these is a working title, The Patron Saint of Motion Pictures and Vacuum Cleaner Repair, which appears to build on the characters and themes established in her debut. Given the low-stakes, high-warmth tone of her writing, any future releases are expected to fit seamlessly alongside her debut, offering more heartwarming comedy for readers who appreciate quirky ensemble casts.
Who Will Enjoy Christine Simon’s Books?
Simon’s storytelling style has earned frequent comparisons to beloved authors of cozy, character-driven fiction. If you are a fan of the following, you will likely love her work:
- Fredrik Backman: Much like A Man Called Ove or Anxious People, Simon’s work centers on an eccentric but deeply lovable protagonist who is trying to hold their community together.
- Jonas Jonasson: The absurd, runaway farcical plot of a fake movie production echoes the slapstick energy of The Hundred-Year-Old Man Who Climbed Out of the Window and Disappeared.
- Richard Osman: Fans of the gentle humor and tight-knit community dynamics found in the Thursday Murder Club series will appreciate the warm neighborhood bond in Prometto.
Practical Reading and Listening Tips
For the absolute best experience with Christine Simon's debut, we highly recommend the audiobook edition. Narrated by Tim Frances, the audiobook was selected for the American Library Association's Reference and User Services Association (RUSA) 2023 "Listen List" for outstanding narration. The selection committee praised Frances' precise comic timing and theatrical delivery, which perfectly captures the chaotic energy and distinct voices of Prometto's eccentric residents.