This book investigates the multifaceted history of chocolate, tracing its origins from ancient Mesoamerica to its global proliferation. The authors, drawing on botany, archaeology, and socioeconomics, detail the complex transformation of the cacao bean into a beverage by sophisticated civilizations like the Maya and Aztecs, who also utilized chocolate as currency. The narrative then follows chocolate's introduction to Europe as a luxury item after the Spanish conquest and its subsequent evolution into a food for the masses through industrialization. The book spans from ancient hieroglyphs to modern chocolate bars, offering a comprehensive account of this beloved food.

The book is regarded as a comprehensive and fascinating account of chocolate's history, drawing on a wide array of disciplines. Its detailed exploration from ancient origins to mass consumption is noted for its thoroughness. The inclusion of historical recipes and illustrations further enhances its appeal as a rich historical document. The work is appreciated for its ability to connect botanical, archaeological, and social histories to the story of a globally popular food.