Book Review: The Onionologist

Reviewed by Elizabeth Reiser

Taking a risk proves worthwhile in this charming coming-of-age story. 

M.J. Parfitt’s The Onionologist follows the lovable but unlucky Elle, a long-haul flight attendant stuck in a dead-end job and an unhealthy relationship. 

After a particularly rough day dealing with frustrating passengers, toxic bosses, and an unreliable and unfaithful fiancé, Elle realizes her life is at an impasse. Little does she know that a night out with her two best friends, Lucy and Angus, and a handsome Californian named Jude will change the trajectory of her life.  

After their eventful night in New York City, Elle makes the impulsive decision to apply to school to become an oenologist, or one who specializes in the making of or study and science of wine (Elle’s drunken malaprop of onionologist is where the book gets its title). 

When she receives her acceptance, she can barely recall applying, but after some encouragement from her friends, she decides to embrace her new path. Soon, she learns the ins and outs of wine in places like France and New Zealand, forming new friendships, and—much to her chagrin—falling for Jude. Will she be able to have the life she desires and the love she craves, or will she have to choose?

This is a lovely book, and Elle is a delightful protagonist. Parfitt does an impressive job of making Elle both easy to root for and especially believable. Her life is not going as planned, but it is a fixable mess. The setbacks she experiences are not ones where readers are will groan in frustration at Elle’s poor decisions. If anything, the reader will likely see their own experiences of early adulthood reflected in Elle’s story.

Another great aspect of this book is the friendship shared with Elle, Lucy, and Angus. They support and encourage one another in a way that feels good and true. Even when Angus creates a TikTok teasing Elle for her clumsiness (aptly called ‘La Fille Maladroit,’ or The Clumsy One), the reasoning behind it and her reaction after is realistic. In addition to being about Elle’s journey of self-discovery, this book is also about the importance of solid friendships. 

The book features a romantic element involving Jude, but the story centers on Elle, her journey, and her friendships most, and the romance takes a bit of a backseat. This choice is a refreshing one and a well-fitting choice for a story primarily about Elle’s personal growth. You don’t need romance to grow.

This is an enjoyable & warm read, ideal for the Winter months when you could use a little more sunshine. Parfitt intends this to be the first book in a series, so fans of The Onionologist will have more to look forward to from the likable Elle.

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