Come Out of the Kitchen! A Romance

by Alice Duer Miller

"Come Out of the Kitchen!" by Alice Duer Miller is a romantic novel written in the early 20th century. The story takes place in a Southern town and revolves around a real estate transaction involving Randolph Reed and his client, Burton Crane, as they navigate a cast of colorful characters, including a group of intricate servants. The narrative likely addresses themes of social class, relationships, and the dynamics between employers and their staff. The opening of the novel introduces us to Randolph Reed, a real estate agent, eagerly preparing for a client to arrive in search of a rental home. Burton Crane, the client, arrives in style but expresses his concerns about the condition of the house and the domestic staff available to him. As the conversation unfolds, we meet Mrs. Falkener, a commanding woman who has a strong opinion about the household management and the type of servants suitable for Crane. The vibrant interactions set the stage for a story entangled with humor and social observations, culminating in the introduction of Jane-Ellen, the cook, who becomes a central character in the unfolding drama of domestic life and romantic intrigue.