Monday, July 2, 2018

Author LILA DIPASQUA--exquisitely entertaining historical romance--sensual, intriguing, surprising!

Lila DiPasqua is not only a very talented and impeccably imaginative author, she is also beautiful, kind, and quite naughty! I mean that in only the best context. Her retellings of my favorite fairy tales--her "Fiery Tales"--are quite unlike any other historical romances that I have read. They are completely compelling and utterly unique. Like a most delicious confection with surprisingly sensual flavorings, you will hunger for more after you have read the last word of each story. I am a baker, and I love to eat cake, but all the icing in the world won't make up for an unsatisfactory cake. When you read the works of Lila DiPasqua, you can have your cake and eat it too--her writing is that good. She doesn't just tell a story, she places you in the story, surrounding you with the lusciousness of the era, the headiness of the romance, and the intrigue and drama of the well-told tale. Her wicked wit balances the sweetness of the romance just like spicy gingerbread is topped with sweetened whipped cream. A feast for a romance reader's senses!


Image result for Lila DiPasqua

At age fourteen, Lila’s best friend sneaked a romance novel out of her grandmother’s house. After devouring it, Lila was hooked on romance novels for life. Today she lives with her real-life hero husband and three children and is a firm believer in the happily-ever-after. She loves history and enjoys traveling. She has been to four continents so far. Weaving in interesting historical facts she discovers during her travels, Lila writes stories about historical alpha-heroes and the heroines who make them lose their hearts. Lila and her family live in Canada.



Mr & Mrs DiPasqua--aren't they gorgeous!

Her website: http://www.liladipasqua.com/index.htm
Her blog: http://liladipasqua.blogspot.com/


Three Reckless Wishes (Fiery Tales, #10) 


 
"Evocative, erotic . . . a sensual treat!"-- SYLVIA DAY, #1 New York Times bestselling author.

Inspired by Charles Perrault's classic fairy tale, "Three Wishes", Three Reckless Wishes is the SCORCHING HOT finale in the acclaimed Fiery Tales Series...

Luc de Moutier, Marquis of Fontenay, is haunted by the writings of a dead woman. He is the subject of her romantic interest. Obsessed with her journals, he can't stop thinking about the sweetly sensual words of the late Isabelle Laurent. Though he'd never noticed her watching him from afar, he now compares every woman to the innocent enchantress who invades his thoughts and most erotic dreams...

The old Isabelle is dead. Sought after by the most powerful men in the realm, Isabelle has her choice of wealthy lovers. Her only goals are to provide for her young son, and to maintain the ruse of her demise. Three reckless wishes led her down the path she now walks. And there is no turning back. Only in her anonymously published books and with her son does she let down her guard. Charming and witty, she dons her social mask each day, her performance flawless until the very man of her long-held private fantasies walks into her life--and shakes the foundations of her carefully crafted world.

When Luc meets the beautiful courtesan, she captures his fascination and ignites an untamable hunger. He's determined to know the woman behind the façade. To deliciously decimate her defenses, show her true passion and the pleasure of complete abandon and surrender. Soon he discovers books written in a style all too familiar to him... and that the past and dark secrets can't stay hidden forever.


 Undone (Fiery Tales, #2) 

UNDONE  by Lila DiPasqua

Inspired by the tale of Rapunzel, Lila DiPasqua offers a new steamy, emotionally charged historical romance in the acclaimed Fiery Tales Series . . . Rescuing this beauty from the 'tower' is only the beginning . . .

Maintaining her ruse as a commoner, and trusting no one has kept Angelica safe. But a chance encounter with a handsome stranger lands her right where danger lies. Now, this sinfully handsome man with arresting blue eyes and a polished manner thinks he's saved her life, when in fact he's placed her in great peril. She's intent on keeping him and everyone else at arm's length. Yet, the smoldering attraction between them is difficult to deny. And impossible to ignore . . .

As commander of a number of privateer ships, Simon Boulenger dresses and speaks like an aristocrat, and has obtained wealth. But he is still not a noble. Or an officer in the King's Navy. His lifelong dream to elevate himself from his station of birth and attain a respectable place in society is dead. Worse, he's ensnared in a deadly scheme, and must get out. But how is he to stay focused on his dangerous mission when the mysterious beauty has him utterly intrigued? He can't afford the distraction any more than he can resist the carnal hunger she stirs. Simon soon discovers that she's not only a passionate soul mate, but a woman born into privilege. A woman he can never have. But they're in too deep. Their hearts are at risk . . . as well as their lives.

"Hot enough to warm the coldest winter night." -- Publishers Weekly

"Lushly erotic, and deeply romantic. If you love historical romance, this is an author to watch!" - Elizabeth Hoyt, New York Times bestselling author

"Evocative, erotic and wickedly passionate . . . [A] sensual treat." -- Sylvia Day, national bestselling author

"Sure to delight!" -- Jennifer Ashley, New York Times and USA Today bestselling author

"Erotically charged . . . Not your mother's fairy tales!"-- Kathryn Smith, USA Today bestselling author

"The most luscious, sexy take on classic fairy tales I've ever read! The heroes are delicious!" --  Cheryl Holt, New York Times bestselling author

". . .Strong-minded heroines you can relate to, breathtaking carnally-gifted male leads...that readers will love!" --Fresh Fiction

MY REVIEW:  **5 STARS** "AS SENSUALLY SUPERB AS THE TANTALIZING TRACE OF A FEATHER ACROSS BARE SKIN"

In a deliciously naughty and delightfully wicked way, author Lila DiPasqua shares the knowledge that the sexiest weakness in a man is his vulnerability to that one special woman. No matter how big and tough a man may be, love makes him reachable. The bigger they are…the harder they fall. They become "UNDONE". The most invincible Alpha male may offer his heart like a gift to the woman he loves, and then he will wait for the look on her face to make sure she is pleased with the gift. In one who is usually without self-doubt, that moment of uncertainty is very appealing. Alphas are external and more obvious. They have the immediate physical impact. A relationship with an Alpha may be incendiary, but will it last? When the fire burns down, will the embers linger? A hero can be a rascally rogue, but he must still have a deep-seated respect for women–even if it takes a while to surface. Handsome men are sometimes merely "pretty", nice to look at, but not always substantial in personality. When you find a man who is strong, smart, sensitive, sweet and sensual, you don't want to look at anyone else. Many times a "rogue" doesn't know that he is really a "hero" until he meets the one woman who challenges him, changes him, and completes him. Somehow, the more resolute the Alpha male is, the more irresistible he becomes. However, I think the real key to Alpha appeal is finding the heart of gold under the armor. Once that happens, you are a goner–other men just don’t compare! Then there is the heroine--giving her heart, her trust, and so much more will have her "UNDONE", and how lucky she will be! Such a woman is strong and intelligent--at once both womanly and still girlish. Her beauty is enhanced by her own particular radiance, a light which will draw her lover with an irresistible pull. Simon Boulenger is common born, yet he walks through society with aristocratic ease and wealth that comes with a price. His lifelong dream is to overcome his ignoble birth and earn the respect of society. Angelica Marie-Louise de Castel left behind her world of privilege to flee from her cruel stepfather. For ten years, she has lived in safety within the walls of a convent. When Simon and Angelica literally collide in an accidental meeting, he follows her, and then rescues her from what he sees as an abusive situation at the convent. He takes her back to France, the very land from which sought never to return. She withholds her true identity from Simon, but she cannot withhold her heart. Simon cannot let this woman of mystery keep him from his mission in life, yet he cannot resist her seductive innocence. For me, storytelling is all about how the characters are portrayed. I must care about the people and want to follow their story and find out what happens to them. Even the supporting players, the not so nice people, and especially the villains should be well-drawn and multi-layered. Minor characters, sharply etched in a few well-chosen words, add such rich flavor to a story line. I like characters who are basically defined around the edges, but still flexible enough to be surprised and revised. Characters are the elements which capture and hold my interest in whatever I am reading. Having said that, I like nice characters who have an unexpected naughty streak. I love naughty characters who are nice when they least expect it themselves. In "UNDONE", author Lila DiPasqua has created such characters and given them a story line filled with emotion, sensuality, intrigue, and drama. All this, and also the wonderful historical detail of the 17th century, the era in which the author weaves her magic writing spell. A must read for historical romance devotees!

Review Copy Gratis Author


  A Midnight Dance    

A MIDNIGHT DANCE  by Lila DiPasqua

Inspired by the tale of Cinderella, Lila DiPasqua weaves a steamy historical romance that offers a glass slipper, a dangerous deception, and an impoverished beauty determined to find her handsome prince...and make him pay.

Born into wealth, Sabine Laurent and her twin sister lived a life of luxury, their father's prestigious theater frequented by royalty and aristocracy alike. And Sabine dreamed of her own prince charming--the devastatingly handsome Jules de Moutier.

That was before the loss of her sister and her family's fall from grace--a disaster Sabine blames on the Moutier family. Now, with her father's death, she's inherited his sizable debt and the responsibility of caring for his spoiled long-time mistress and her two wastrel daughters. But with the help of Sabine's eccentric friends--the balance of her father's acting troupe--she plans to get very close to her old infatuation, seduce the rake--and make away with a fortune.

Resisting Jules's skillful mouth and tantalizing touch is not as easy as Sabine supposed. And soon she must decide whether her desire for vengeance is greater than her desire for her one and only prince...

DiPasqua's latest Fiery Tale is not your typical Cinderella story. This fresh and sexy retelling of the classic fairy tale features a spirited heroine, a dangerous "dark prince," sizzling passion and plenty of intrigue! - RT Book Reviews.

"Evocative, erotic . . . and searingly romantic."  - Sylvia Day, national bestselling author

"A MIDNIGHT DANCE is a sexy fairytale that will make you swoon. Jules de Moutier is the prince charming all women dream of." -- Fresh Fiction

"The romance is scorching hot . . .a fantastic heroine [and]... a fantastic hero." Night Owl Reviews---REVIEWER'S TOP PICK!

"Simply put, this is one fabulous book!!" -- The Romance Dish

MY REVIEW:  **5 STARS**  "UNDENIABLE PASSION, REVELATION, AND REDEMPTION"

I now think of author Lila DiPasqua as "Scheherazade". Having just read her third Fiery Tale book, "A Midnight Dance", I can strongly advise that Ms. DiPasqua is not just a premier author of erotic historical romance, she is also a master storyteller. With each of her books, I have been captivated by the character development and the story line detail, but there is more, much more. There is undeniable passion, titillation and temptation, but there is also intrigue, revelation and redemption. Then there are the surprises, which keep you turning the pages looking for more depth-adding twists and turns. In "A Midnight Dance", lovely Sabine Laurent sacrifices much to restore the lands, fortune, and good name of her family. The man she has always adored from afar, Jules de Moutier, is the son of the man she holds responsible for her family's ruin. Jules' family has not been untouched by tragedy, and for years he has strived to replenish the lost wealth and social standing of his aristocratic heritage. When Sabine and Jules cross paths again after many years, they are at cross purposes, each intending a cache of silver coins to be the answer to their own individual quest. There are others interested in that same silver--others who live with evil intent and the desire to torment Sabine and Jules and those around them. The passion between the inexperienced, loving Sabine and the sensually masterful Jules is scorching! However, it is Sabine's inner fire which kindles deeper embers in the worldly Jules. "A Midnight Dance" will leave you breathless, and hoping to experience the same sensations soon with another Fiery Tale. Most pleasurably recommended!

Review Copy Gratis Penguin Books


 The Princess in His Bed   

THE PRINCESS IN HIS BED  by Lila DiPasqua

The author of the "luscious, sexy" (New York Times bestselling author Cheryl Holt) Awakened by a Kiss returns with a new collection of erotic fairy tales that would make even the Grimm Brothers blush, inspired by "The Emperor's New Clothes," "The Ugly Duckling," and "The Princess and the Pea."

The Marquis' New Clothes: To search his wardrobe for a missing ring, Aimee will have to get very close to the seductive Marquis de Nattes, and soon finds that his clothes-and hers-are utterly forgotten...

The Lovely Duckling: Joseph d'Alumbert will stop at nothing to peel away the inhibitions of Emilie de Sarron and reveal the beautiful swan inside...

The Princess and the Diamonds: Princess Gabrielle can't sleep. There is something hard in her bed. Not just the stolen diamonds tucked under her mattress- but the handsome marquis on it.

"Strong-minded heroines you can relate to, breathtaking carnally gifted male leads...A sexy collection that readers will love." Fresh Fiction.

"If you only buy one book this week or this month, do yourself a favor and BUY this book! [THE PRINCESS IN HIS BED] -- 5 STARS! The Romance Dish

"I recommend this to all adult fairytale lovers." - 5 RIBBONS! --Romance Junkies

"What perfect adult bedtime stories." - TOP PICK! --Night Owl Review

"Once again Ms. DiPasqua has rocked the Fiery Tale world. . Fluid paced storyline. . with such a steamy, additively seductive trio of romances!" - 5 STARS! --Book Junkie

MY REVIEW:  **5 STARS** "BEAUTIFULLY BODACIOUS BEDTIME TALES"

"The Princess in His Bed", the second book in Lila DiPasqua's "Fiery Tales Collection" is equally as erotically enchanting as her first book, "Awakened by a Kiss". Lila's beautifully written story lines and completely involving characters are a treat for truly devoted lovers of romantic fiction. I felt somewhat bereft at the end of each book. I wanted to meet more of her characters--each one is so wonderfully brought to life that you feel a personal connection to them and share in their joys and sorrows. Your heart and mind will insist that each pair of lovers finds a gloriously happily-ever-after ending to their own unique story. The setting for these fantastic, fiery fairy tales is the court of Louis XIV, where nothing less than excess in all matters was acceptable to the most wealthy and powerful of citizens. The debauchery of this devastatingly decadent era in history makes the discovery of real and lasting love all the more emotionally satisfying. Lila DiPasqua is an author whose writing I will continue to anticipate with great pleasure. Highly recommended!

Book Copy Gratis Author


Awakened by a Kiss   

AWAKENED BY A KISS  by Lila DiPasqua

Three classic fairytales--"Sleeping Beauty," "Puss in Boots," and "Little Red Riding Hood"--cleverly retold with enough sensual twists to prove wickedly ever after does exist...

Once upon a wicked time...

Sleeping Beau: Five years ago, notorious rake Adrien d'Aspe, Marquis de Beaulain, was awakened by a sensuous kiss-and experienced a night of raw ecstasy that was branded into his memory. Years later, he spots his mysterious seductress-and this time, he has no intention of letting her go...

Little Red Writing: Nicolas de Savignac, Comte de Lambelle, has been assigned by the King to uncover the secret identity of the author writing scandalous stories about powerful courtiers. He never expected his investigation would lead to his grandmother's house, or to a ravishing woman who would stir his deepest hunger...

Bewitching in Boots: Elisabeth de Roussel, daughter of the King, is accustomed to getting what she wants-and she wants Tristan de Tiersonnier, Comte de Saint-Marcel, an ex-commander of the King's private Guard. A recent injury has forced Tristan to leave his distinguished position, but Elisabeth is determined to make him see he's every bit the man he once was-and more than man enough for her...

"Lila DiPasqua's lushly erotic writing is sophisticated, sensuous, and deeply romantic. If you love historic romance, this is an author to watch!"

-Elizabeth Hoyt, New York Times bestselling author
 
"The sexiest, most entertaining collection of stories I've ever read and the most luscious, sexy take on classic fairy tales I've ever read! The three heroes are delicious!"
-New York Times bestselling author Cheryl Holt


"An erotically charged retelling of classic stories. Steamy yet sweet, DiPasqua expertly melds emotionally charged erotica with fantasy, love and hope, leaving no doubt as to the happily ever after. These are not your mother's fairy tales!" -USA Today bestselling author Kathryn Smith

“Every now and then a debut author knocks my socks off with her first novel. . . AWAKENED BY A KISS is a magnificent debut!!!! ...Purchase it right now!!!” — 5 STARS! - The Romance Dish

“I highly recommend "Awakened by a Kiss"!”— TOP PICK! Night Owl Romance Reviews


MY REVIEW:  **5 STARS** "LUSHLY-WRITTEN EROTIC ROMANCE"

Oh, what wonderfully fantastical romantic stories are told by Lila DiPasqua in "Awakened by a Kiss", book one in her "Fiery Tales" series. Erotic, hypnotic and lushly written, these bold tales are a sensual blend of love and passion. Historical detail, well-developed characterizations and elements of surprise will have you enthralled until the very last page. Exquisitely erotic romance! I very much look forward to the next book, "The Princess in his Bed"!

Book Copy Gratis Author

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Because Lila's books are both sumptuous and scrumptious, I have added this incredibly indulgent recipe for your enjoyment! 


Decadent Italian Chocolate Cake

5 large eggs, separated
1/2 cup butter, softened
1/2 cup shortening
2 cups sugar
2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 cup buttermilk
1 cup sweetened flaked coconut
2/3 cup finely chopped pecans
2 teaspoons vanilla extract

Chocolate Cream Cheese Frosting (recipe follows)
Garnish: pecan halves

Beat egg whites at high speed with an electric mixer until stiff peaks form; set aside. Beat butter and shortening until creamy; gradually add sugar, beating well. Add egg yolks, 1 at a time, beating until blended after each addition. Combine flour, cocoa, and baking soda; add to butter mixture alternately with buttermilk, beginning and ending with flour mixture. Beat at low speed until blended after each addition. Stir in coconut, chopped pecans, and vanilla. Fold in egg whites. Pour batter into 3 greased and floured 8-inch round cake pans. Bake at 325F for 25 to 30 minutes or until a wooden pick inserted in center comes out clean. Cool in pans 10 minutes. Remove cake layers to wire racks, and cool completely.
Spread Chocolate Cream Cheese Frosting between layers and on top and
sides of cake. Garnish, if desired. Makes 10 to 12 servings.

Chocolate Cream Cheese Frosting

1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup butter, softened
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 (16-ounce) package powdered sugar
1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa
1/4 cup buttermilk
2/3 cup finely chopped pecans

Beat first 4 ingredients at medium speed with an electric mixer until creamy. Combine powdered sugar and cocoa; gradually add to butter mixture alternately with buttermilk, beginning and ending with powdered sugar mixture. Beat at low speed until blended after each addition. Stir in pecans.

Friday, June 29, 2018

"THE DRAGONFIRE SERIES"--Author Deborah Cooke's fantasy-fueled paranormal tales breathe fiery romance into dragon-shifter lore

Dragonfire is a paranormal romance series featuring dragon shape shifter heroes on a quest to save humanity. Although each book stands alone as a complete romance, it’s easier to follow the over-riding story arc by reading the books in sequence

https://www.goodreads.com/series/45034-dragonfire


Kiss of Fire
Kiss of Fury
Kiss of Fate
Winter Kiss
Harmonia's Kiss
Whisper Kiss
Darkfire Kiss
Flashfire
Ember's Kiss
The Dragon Legion Collection
Kiss of Danger
Kiss of Darkness
Kiss of Destiny
Serpent's Kiss
Firestorm Forever
Here Be Dragons: The Dragonfire Companion

Deborah Cooke

Deborah Cooke

Deborah Cooke also writes under the names Claire Delacroix and Claire Cross.

Bestselling and award-winning author Deborah Cooke has published over fifty novels and novellas, including historical romances, fantasy romances, fantasy novels with romantic elements, paranormal romances, contemporary romances, urban fantasy romances, time travel romances and paranormal young adult novels. She writes as herself, Deborah Cooke, as Claire Delacroix, and has written as Claire Cross. She is nationally bestselling, #1 Kindle Bestselling, KOBO Bestselling, as well as a USA Today and New York Times’ Bestselling Author. Her Claire Delacroix medieval romance, The Beauty, was her first book to land on the New York Times List of Bestselling Books. Deborah was the writer-in-residence at the Toronto Public Library in 2009, the first time TPL hosted a residency focused on the romance genre, and she was honored to receive the Romance Writers of America PRO Mentor of the Year Award in 2012. She’s a member of Romance Writers of America and of Novelists Inc. Currently, she’s writing paranormal romances as Deborah Cooke, and medieval romances as Claire Delacroix. Deborah thinks a lot about publishing and writing, and also knits too much.

"GOOD THINGS" FROM MARTHA STEWART--four cookbooks featuring slow-cookers; vegetables; appetizers; one-pot cooking, and more!

Martha Stewart's Slow Cooker: 110 Recipes for Flavorful, Foolproof Dishes (Including Desserts!), Plus Test- Kitchen Tips and Strategies

Martha Stewart's Slow Cooker: 110 Recipes for Flavorful, Foolproof Dishes (Including Desserts!), Plus Test- Kitchen Tips and Strategies

Leave it to the experts at Martha Stewart to figure out the best ways to use this favorite appliance. The 110 recipes in this book make the most of the slow cooker's assets (low heat, hands-off cooking), while also uncovering its hidden potential. Readers will find that they can not only braise cuts of meat until meltingly tender and let soups and stews simmer away untended, but also gently poach fish, cook up creamy scalloped potatoes, and bake a perfect cheesecake. This book has everything home cooks need to maximize flavor and make life a whole lot easier.

MY REVIEW:  When it comes to preparing food with slow cookers, there are usually two types of cooks: those who regularly make use of this wonderful kitchen helper, and those who dust the cooker off now and then for holidays, pot-luck dinners, and the occasional pot roast. Slow cookers come in a wide range of sizes, functionality, and visual appeal. I still have my original Crock Pot (avocado green), and it still works quite well. I have newer cookers, one small and one large, but the “green machine” is still my favorite. It holds a lot of memories of good food and good family times. “Martha Stewart’s Slow Cooker: 110 recipes for Flavorful, Foolproof Dishes (Including Desserts!), Plus Test-Kitchen Tips and Strategies” shines a new light on this old kitchen favorite, making it a “go to” meal-maker for modern families. More than a year’s research went into developing recipes and cooking techniques which make the most of the slow-cooker’s steady, even heat, minimal pot-watching, and the added benefits of less fat and more moisture in the prepared dish. Try poaching root vegetables like carrots, parsnips, and beets (Root-Vegetable Confit), and serve them over cooked grains, or as a flavorful side dish. Slow cookers are unbeatable at taking tougher, less-expensive cuts of meat like flank steak and turning them fork-tender (Ropa Vieja). Fish fillets will cook to perfection (Indian-Style Fish Curry). For richer flavor and deeper color, brown meats and sauté onions before adding them to the slow cooker (Persian Lamb Stew). It goes without saying that soup is a slow cooker classic, and you can make a spectacular vegetarian version (healthy, hearty Italian Ribollita Soup). For your sweet-tooth try delicious desserts (Cinnamon Buns) which are made even more scrumptious by the moist heat of the slow cooker. This is a delightful cookbook filled with mouth-watering food photos and recipes that will have you rethinking your tried & true menus and meal preparations, and you will appreciate the savings of food costs and time.

Book Copy Gratis Clarkson Potter Publishers via Blogging for Books 


Martha Stewart's Vegetables: The Essential Guide, with Recipes

Martha Stewart's Vegetables: The Essential Guide, with Recipes 

An essential resource for every cook
 
In this beautiful book, Martha Stewart—one of America’s best-known cooks, gardeners, and all-around vegetable lovers—provides home cooks with an indispensable resource for selecting, storing, preparing, and cooking from the garden and the market. The 150 recipes, many of which are vegetarian, highlight the flavors and textures of everyday favorites and uncommon varieties alike. The recipes include:

   • Roasted Carrots and Red Quinoa with Miso Dressing
   • Swiss Chard Lasagna
   • Endive and Fennel Salad with Pomegranate Seeds
   • Asparagus and Watercress Pizza
   • Smoky Brussels Sprouts Gratin
   • Spiced Parsnip Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Frosting

Martha Stewart’s Vegetables makes eating your greens (and reds and yellows and oranges) more delicious than ever.


MY REVIEW:  Step up to the plate, and eat your veggies. The "V" in "Martha Stewart's Vegetables" stands for vibrant, versatile, and veggielicious. We eat with our eyes first, and then with all of our senses, and the beautiful color photo accompanying each recipe will definitely tempt your taste buds. The layout of this book is clean, uncluttered, easy-to-read, and easy-to-follow. The chapters are divided by the type of vegetable, such as Bulbs, Roots, Stalks & Stems, Leaves, and more. "Tubers", featuring potatoes and sweet potatoes, is my favorite--yes, I love my spuds. Each chapter is prefaced with a mini-bio of the vegetable group, and then followed by "The Basics"of varieties, storage, usage, and cooking. "Four-Onion Soup with Ginger" is perfect for those not shy about their fondness for onions. "Herb-and-Scallion Bread Pudding" is a savory side dish for roasted meats. "Moroccan Vegetable Soup" is hearty and surprisingly quick to prepare. "Carrot Fries" are oven-baked and crisply satisfying. "Yukon Gold and Sweet Potatoes Anna" is simple and combines the best of both worlds. "Roasted Pork Chops with Sweet Potatoes and Apples" is the fantastic flavors of Fall all in one pan. "Sweet Potato Yeasted Rolls" and "Potato Dinner Rolls"--make both, and serve with lots of creamy real butter. "Caldo Verde" is a filling stew of kale, potatoes, and sausage. "Broccoli, Shrimp, and Shiitake Stir-Fry" offers a bountiful bowlful of tastes and textures. The fruits that we call vegetables, including tomatoes, cucumbers, avocados, peppers and chiles, and more, are also given a shine by the spotlight. "Skillet Steak Peperonata" is sirloin steak cooked with a skilletful of peppers and onions. "Corn Soup" made with half-and-half and bacon-and savory seasonings-invites you to pick up your spoon and dig in. All together, "Martha Stewart's Vegetables" includes 150 recipes for main dishes and sides. You may not embrace a total vegetarian lifestyle, but incorporating more vegetables into your food intake will be more healthful, and it will expand and enhance your daily menus. MARTHA STEWART is one of America’s leading lifestyle experts, and she is the author of more than 80 books on cooking, entertaining, crafts, homekeeping, gardens, weddings, and decorating.
 

Book Copy Gratis Clarkson Potter Publishers via Blogging for Books


Martha Stewart's Appetizers: 200 Recipes for Dips, Spreads, Snacks, Small Plates, and Other Delicious Hors d'Oeuvres, Plus 30 Cocktails

Martha Stewart's Appetizers: 200 Recipes for Dips, Spreads, Snacks, Small Plates, and Other Delicious Hors d'Oeuvres, Plus 30 Cocktails

Hors d’oeuvres made modern: Today’s style of entertaining calls for fuss-free party foods that are easy to make and just as delicious as ever. With more than 200 recipes for tasty pre-dinner bites, substantial small plates, special-occasion finger foods, and quick snacks to enjoy with drinks, Martha Stewart’s Appetizers is the new go-to guide for any type of get-together.

MY REVIEW:  An "appetizer" is defined as "a small portion of tasty food to stimulate the appetite". Yes, indeed. An "hors d'oeuvre" is noted as an appetizer served before a meal. Why, thank you--I will accept a nice sampler plate. "Martha Stewart's Appetizers: 200 Recipes for Dips, Spreads, Snacks, Small Plates, and Other Delicious Hors d'Oeuvres, Plus 30 Cocktails" offers up tasty tidbits and tempting treats accompanied by lovely libations. This is a glorious graze-fest, done in "Martha Style", and it truly is a fabulous feast for foodies. It also introduced me to one of my new favorite food phrases: "substantial small plates". Oh, goodness! While the traditional image for appetizers and hors d'oeuvres is associated with cocktail parties and social gatherings, I will say that the foods and drinks featured in this book are also mighty appealing for times when you want something really good, but you don't want to cook a full meal. I am writing this review in the sultry days of late August here in the South, and a cold plate of assorted goodies with a nice cool drink seems like the perfect after-work supper. Divided into five sections of recipes--Snacks, Starters, Small Plates, Stylish Bites, and Sips--the book also offers rules and tips for party planning and hosting. Organization plus inspiration makes things easier for you and goes a long way to ensure a houseful of happy guests. You can't go wrong serving them delicious delights like these: "Summer Crudites with Green Goddess Dip"; "Cranberry Sparkler"; "Horseradish Deviled Eggs"; "Rosemary Cheese Straws"; "Plum Blossom"; "Mini Cheese Biscuits"; "Salty-Sweet Party Mix"; "Honey-Roasted Salted Figs"; "Gin and Grapefruit Fizzes"; "Turkey and Avocado Sliders"; "Sour Cherry Mojitos"; "Papaya, Mango, and Pineapple with Spiced Salt"; "Seasoned Potato Chips"; "Spiced Nuts"; "Seasoned Popcorn"; "Apple Cider Sangria"; and so much more. Contemporary cuisine has its own casual chic, and eclectic style can be an intriguing ice-breaker.

Book Copy Gratis Clarkson Potter Publishers via Blogging for Books


One Pot: 120+ Easy Meals from Your Skillet, Slow Cooker, Stockpot, and More

One Pot: 120+ Easy Meals from Your Skillet, Slow Cooker, Stockpot, and More 

The editors of Martha Stewart Living take 30-minute meals and everyday food to the next level with one-pot meals; more than 120 innovative, comfort-food recipes make use of just a pot, a sheet pan, a skillet, a slow cooker, or a pressure cooker for meals that are delicious, satisfying, and quick to clean up, too.

MSLO's latest cookbook features something everyone wants more of: all-in-one meals. Packed with 120 gorgeous images and recipes for one-pot wonders (including their food hack for One-Pan Pasta that went viral over the summer), this cookbook helps you get in and out of the kitchen with only one vessel to clean. From chicken and vegetables that roast on the same sheet pan to skillet lasagna, baked risotto, soups, and down-home casseroles, this is the volume that gives you the biggest flavor payoff with the smallest efforts. Here, too, are a dozen recipes for one-bowl desserts that can be ready when you are.


MY REVIEW:  "One Pot: 120+ Easy Meals from Your Skillet, Slow Cooker, Stockpot, and More" is simply a pleasure from cover to cover. This delightful cookbook from the Kitchens of Martha Stewart Living is one that you will reach for time and time again. With its trimmed-down size, easy-to-read font, and clean layout, this tempting collection of "one pot" meals and delicious desserts is definitely user-friendly. Each recipe is accompanied by a full-color photo. The cooking categories are: Dutch Oven; Skillet & Saute' Pan; Slow Cooker; Roasting Pan & Baking Dish; Pressure Cooker; Stockpot & Saucepan; and Desserts. Each of the different type of cooking pots is featured with a photo and usage directions and tips. Preparation time and clean up is reduced, and the convenience of preparing good-for-you comfort food encourages more shared family time around the dinner table. Here's a sample of the irresistible recipes included in "One Pot": "Chicken with Creamy Corn and Bacon"; "Sausage with Acorn Squash and Onions"; "Pork with Parsnips and Sweet Potatoes"; "Rib Eye with Root Vegetables"; "Pasta with Lentils and Greens"; "Corn and Shrimp Chowder"; "Salmon with Cabbage and Kale"; and "Mustard Salmon with Cabbage and Potatoes". Now, on to the wicked-good desserts: "Rustic Apple Tart"; "Skillet Chocolate-Chip Cookie"; "Molten Chocolate Cupcakes"; and "Baked Blackberry Custard". With such appealing spirit and style, and fabulous, family-favorite foods, "One Pot" is one terrific cookbook.
 

Book Copy Gratis Clarkson Potter Publishers via Blogging for Books


Martha Stewart

Martha Stewart 

Martha Stewart is an American business magnate, author, editor and homemaking advocate. She is also a former stockbroker and fashion model. Over the last two decades Stewart has held a prominent position in the American publishing industry; as the author of several books, hundreds of articles on the domestic arts, editor of a national homekeeping magazine, host for two popular daytime television programs, and commercial spokeswoman for K-Mart. In 2001 she was named the third most powerful woman in America by Ladies Home Journal. In 2004 she was convicted of lying to investigators about a stock sale and served five months in prison.

"MARTHA STEWART'S FLOWERS"--Decorate your home and garden and add color and beauty to your own world



A rare glimpse into Martha Stewart's personal gardens, this book features her very favorite blooms and will include everything you need to know, from cultivation to display, with instructions for successfully growing flowers and arranging them, along with practical tips, foolproof techniques, and plenty of inspiration from Martha's own homes.
 

Gardening has long been a favorite pasttime of Martha Stewart. Having grown up working in the yard with her father, a master gardener, she relished the moment when she would be able to have her very own garden--and has since owned, loved, and developed six additional gardens, one of which is also a farm. In Martha's Flowers, she brings you into her personal gardens, walking you through rows and rows of tulips, daffodils, peonies, poppies, hydrangeas, dahlias, and more, while sharing stories of what these flowers mean to her. She also invites Kevin Sharkey, a longtime Martha Stewart Living editor and dear friend, to teach how to beautifully arrange these flowers yourself. In the back of the book, she includes a helpful, hardworking list of tools and vessels that are good to have, information on how to plan a cutting garden, and a tutorial on forcing branches. Martha's Flowers is one of Martha's most intimate books ever, and the authoritative advice included will make this a must-have for every gardener and flower enthusiast.



MY REVIEW:  From Martha Stewart comes "Martha's Flowers: Growing and Arranging My Favorite Blooms"--an exquisite and expansive exploration of the floral world. Along with fabulous photos, growing and gardening tips, and the perfect tools to use, Martha shares personal insights into her love of flowers. Contributor Kevin Sharkey offers valuable advice for creating uniquely lovely floral arrangements that range from supremely simple to stunningly spectacular. Decorate your home and garden and add color and beauty to your own world with "Martha's Flowers".

Book Copy Gratis Clarkson Potter Publishers via Blogging for Books 



MARTHA STEWART

Martha Stewart is an American business magnate, author, editor and homemaking advocate. She is also a former stockbroker and fashion model. Over the last two decades Stewart has held a prominent position in the American publishing industry; as the author of several books, hundreds of articles on the domestic arts, editor of a national homekeeping magazine, host for two popular daytime television programs, and commercial spokeswoman for K-Mart. In 2001 she was named the third most powerful woman in America by Ladies Home Journal. 




Martha Stewart

Monday, April 23, 2018

THE LION OF THE SOUTH--author Jessica James transports readers to the Civil War-Era with a poignant and intriguing historical romance



With beautifully descriptive language, an amazing eye for historical detail, and a great love of subject, author Jessica James transports her readers into the very lives of characters who lived long ago. "The Lion of the South" is a compelling Civil War-Era romance--filled with thrilling history and suspense, and enriched by a poignant love story. Near the midpoint of the Civil War, Julia Dandridge comes home to Virginia from a life in Washington City to a find world in turmoil. People and places held so very dear are now forever changed. A bold and mysterious figure known as "The Lion of the South" makes daring, seemingly impossible strikes against the Union Army to rally the Confederacy. As Julia's concerns grow for her despondent friend, Landon Graham, and for her own brother, Gideon, she becomes enmeshed in a web of intrigue and great personal risk. When circumstances force her to choose between her brother's life and the fate of the man who has stolen her heart, how can she bear to lose one to save the other? A highly recommended treat for lovers of historical romance, as are Jessica James other works "Noble Cause" and "Above and Beyond".


Book Copy Gratis Author


JESSICA JAMES




















http://www.jessicajamesbooks.com/

https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/586216.Jessica_James?from_search=true

https://www.amazon.com/Jessica-James/e/B001IYTXOG/ref=dp_byline_cont_book_1


Sunday, April 8, 2018

PRAYERS FOR EVERYDAY OCCASIONS--lovely and inspiring book from Ellen Banks Elwell




































"Prayers for Everyday Occasions", by Ellen Banks Elwell, is a beautifully-crafted little book of inspiring verse and comforting spiritual guidance. As the author states: "Sometimes, listening in on another person's thoughts and words helps us make sense of our own." Included in the book are 176 prayers divided into four sections: "For Specific Occasions"; "From the Bible"; "From Hymns"; and "Across the Ages". Vintage-style nature illustrations are scattered throughout the pages. The prayers cover many aspects of everyday life, both happy and sad, and they guide readers in praying for others as well as for themselves. "Prayers for Every Occasion" is a book to keep for yourself, and it would be a thoughtful gift to others
.

Book Copy Gratis Tyndale Blog Network


ELLEN BANKS ELWELL















Visit Ellen's website at www.ellenelwell.com. Ellen graduated from Moody Bible Institute and American Conservatory of Music. She has authored over 20 books that have sold more than 800,000 copies, including One Year Devotions for Moms, Life is Beautiful, Toddler's Songbook, and a series of Piano Praise Books. Some of Ellen's books have been translated into Afrikaans, Chinese, Dutch, German, and Portuguese. She works in International Publishing at Tyndale House Publishers, with her husband, Jim. They live in the Chicago area and have three grown sons and two grandchildren.

Amazon's Ellen Banks Elwell Page