Saturday, December 13, 2014

CONTEMPORARY CHRISTMAS ROMANCE--heartfelt holiday fiction from today's top romantic storytellers




 
















A DIAMOND IN HER STOCKING  by Kandy Shepherd

Everyone loves a Christmas wedding!


Chef and single mom Lizzie Dumont is moving on. Returning to Dolphin Bay to make her new restaurant a success, she has no time at all for jaw-droppingly handsome Jesse Morgan—even if she can't forget that incredible kiss they once shared!

Jesse can't forget their kiss, either. But the betrayal in Lizzie's past has made her wary of him, and he hates the fact that she can't see past his reputation as a heartbreaker. Now he's on a mission to change her mind—and luckily it's the most romantic season of the year: Christmas!


She daydreams of whipping up sauces and souffles in her own restaurant. His heart is set on helping foster children. Both dreams are at stake. So are their hearts.

With grand plans to open her own bed & breakfast in Chapel Springs, PJ McKinley can't afford the most crucial part: the brick and mortar. But when the owner of a local historic home announces a contest and promises her property to the worthiest candidate, PJ makes a fervent wish and tosses her name into the hat.


Cole Evans is cool, confident, and successful, but he'll never forget his roots. He's thankful for how far he's come and knows his life could have turned out drastically different. If he can win the stately old mansion, he'll turn it into a home for children aging out of the foster system.


When the eccentric house owner narrows the entries down to only two applicants, she extends the contest, giving PJ and Cole one year to prove which one of them can make the best use of her beloved home. As the pair competes in close proximity, something deeper than rivalry sparks between PJ and Cole. And in this battle, they're likely to lose their hearts.





It's Christmas in Twilight, Texas. The Cookie Club is baking, the town is decorated, and Delta Force Operator "Hutch" Hutchinson has finally, reluctantly, returned home . . .


. . . only to get pepper sprayed by the delicious- looking stranger who's taken over his house. She says her name is Jane, and she immediately sets down ground rules. Top priority: no touching. For Hutch that isn't easy—he was wounded in action, but one part is still working very well.


Then Hutch learns the truth. Jane harbors a frightening secret—she's really Meredith Sommers, on the run from a dangerous ex-husband and desperately in need of the safety Hutch can provide. In that moment, he vows he'd do anything in his power to protect her. And as Christmas approaches, they discover that their love can conquer the past and overcome any obstacle—but what price will they pay?




 Snow Angel Cove (Haven Point, #1)

New York Times bestselling author RaeAnne Thayne welcomes you to Haven Point, a small town full of big surprises that are both merry and bright 


Nothing short of a miracle can restore Eliza Hayward's Christmas cheer. The job she pinned her dreams on has gone up in smoke—literally—and now she's stuck in an unfamiliar, if breathtaking, small town. Precariously close to being destitute, Eliza needs a hero, but she's not expecting one who almost runs her down with his car! 


Rescuing Eliza is pure instinct for tech genius Aidan Caine. At first, putting the renovation of his lakeside guest lodge in Eliza's hands assuages his guilt—until he sees how quickly he could fall for her. Having focused solely on his business for years, he never knew what his life was missing before Eliza, but now he's willing to risk his heart on a yuletide romance that could lead to forever.



In the wake of a heartbreaking betrayal, a young woman leaves the Scottish countryside to find her destiny in three of the most exciting cities in the world—New York, Paris, and London—in this funny and triumphant tale of fulfillment, friendship, and love.


Ten years ago, a young and naïve Cassie married her first serious boyfriend, believing he would be with her forever. Now, her marriage is in tatters and Cassie has no career or home of her own. Though she feels betrayed and confused, Cassie isn’t giving up. She’s going to take control of her life. But first she has to find out where she belongs . . . and who she wants to be.


Over the course of one year, Cassie leaves her sheltered life in rural Scotland to stay with her best friends living in the most glamorous cities in the world: New York, Paris, and London. Exchanging comfort food and mousy hair for a low-carb diet and a gorgeous new look, Cassie tries each city on for size as she searches for the life she’s meant to have . . . and the man she’s meant to love.




 The Christmas Wedding Ring



THE CHRISTMAS WEDDING RING  by Susan Mallery


New York Times bestselling author Susan Mallery returns with a Christmas-themed retelling of her beloved story, The Wedding Ring Promise!


In her youth, Molly Anderson couldn't help crushing on gorgeous bad boy Dylan Black-even though he had eyes only for her older sister. When things didn't work out between them, he said goodbye to Molly as well, vowing they'd have a great adventure when she grew up. Years later, dumped by her fiance just before Christmas, she's finally ready to take Dylan up on his promise.


A guarded Dylan always had a weakness for Molly, and when she waltzes back into his life—grown-up and gorgeous—he's stunned. So why not whisk her away for some no-strings-attached fun?

Laughter-filled days and late-night kisses are changing Molly's life, for good. The only gift she truly wants now is Dylan's love, but when he discovers the secret she's been keeping, she may lose him again…this time forever.





Mr. Miracle: A Christmas Novel




MR. MIRACLE  by Debbie Macomber



Beloved #1 New York Times bestselling author Debbie Macomber celebrates the most wonderful time of the year in this heartwarming Christmas novel of romance, hope, and the comforts of home—now a Hallmark Channel original movie!


Harry Mills is a guardian angel on a mission: help twenty-four-year-old Addie Folsom get her life back on track—and, if the right moment strikes, help her find love. Posing as a teacher at a local college in Tacoma, Washington, Harry is up to the task, but not even he can predict the surprises that lay in store.


After trying to make it on her own, Addie has returned home to Tacoma for the holidays, but this time she plans to stay for good, enrolling in the local community college to earn her degree. What she doesn’t plan to do is run into Erich Simmons.


Addie and her next-door neighbor, Erich, are like night and day. Growing up, he was popular and outgoing while she was rebellious and headstrong, and he never missed an opportunity to tease her. Now she intends to avoid him entirely, yet when they’re suddenly forced to spend Christmas together, Addie braces for trouble.
Perhaps it’s the spirit of the season or the magic of mistletoe, but Addie and Erich soon find they have more in common than they thought—and that two people who seem so wrong for each other may actually be just right. With a little prompting from a certain angelic teacher, the two are in for a holiday miracle they’ll never forget.





 Starry Night



STARRY NIGHT  by Debbie Macomber


’Tis the season for romance, second chances, and Christmas cheer with this new novel from Debbie Macomber.


Carrie Slayton, a big-city society-page columnist, longs to write more serious news stories. So her editor hands her a challenge: She can cover any topic she wants, but only if she first scores the paper an interview with Finn Dalton, the notoriously reclusive author.


Living in the remote Alaskan wilderness, Finn has written a mega-bestselling memoir about surviving in the wild. But he stubbornly declines to speak to anyone in the press, and no one even knows exactly where he lives.


Digging deep into Finn’s past, Carrie develops a theory on his whereabouts. It is the holidays, but her career is at stake, so she forsakes her family celebrations and flies out to snowy Alaska. When she finally finds Finn, she discovers a man both more charismatic and more stubborn than she even expected. And soon she is torn between pursuing the story of a lifetime and following her heart.


Filled with all the comforts and joys of Christmastime, Starry Night is a delightful novel of finding happiness in the most surprising places.









Revisit these three classic stories of hope and seasonal cheer from Debbie Macomber, Official Storyteller of Christmas!


Greg Bennett hates Christmas. Divorced, almost friendless and about to lose his business, he has no time for what he considers sentimental nonsense. It takes three irrepressible angels to show him the truth.


Shirley, Goodness and Mercy shall follow him—until he learns what Christmas is all about!


Those Christmas Angels come down to earth again to respond to Anne Fletcher's prayer request. She wants her son, Roy, to meet a special woman—and the angels contrive to throw Julie Wilcoff in his path (literally!).


Another Christmas, another angelic rescue. The three heaven-sent messengers reunite a divorced couple, bring peace of mind to an elderly man and grant a little boy's fondest wish. Because there's always joy Where Angels Go.


Angels are all around us— Especially at Christmas!




 Together for Christmas: 5-B Poppy Lane\When We Touch\Welcome to Icicle Falls\Starstruck
This Christmas, visit four of your favorite towns, created by four of your favorite authors! Listen to some of the stories people tell at Christmas… 

5-B Poppy Lane by Debbie Macomber  


In Cedar Cove, Washington, you'll meet Helen Shelton, her granddaughter Ruth and Ruth's husband, Paul. You'll find out how Ruth and Paul met—and you'll learn about Helen's breathtaking adventures during the Second World War.


When We Touch by Brenda Novak  

Whiskey Creek, California, the site of a Victorian Days Christmas celebration, is where you'll find out how Noelle stole Olivia's fiancé, Kyle, and what happened next! But is there any chance the sisters can reconcile, especially at Christmas, the time of forgiveness and peace?


Welcome to Icicle Falls by Sheila Roberts  


Come to Icicle Falls, Washington, for a Christmas cookie exchange at Muriel Sterling's house. Hear about the summer Muriel fell in love with a handsome stranger. Her dad expected her to take over Sweet Dreams, the family's chocolate company, but Muriel had sweet dreams of her own… 


Starstruck by RaeAnne Thayne 


And in Cold Creek, Idaho, visit with former Hollywood stuntman Justin Hartford, his daughter, Ruby, and wife, Ashley. Ruby and her friends love the story of how her dad and her new mom met!


There's something special about sharing our memories when we're together for Christmas!

Friday, December 12, 2014

AUTHOR ALISON DELAINE—HISTORICAL ROMANCE THAT SWEEPS YOU AWAY THROUGH GRAND ADVENTURES OF THE HEART!









A hellion on the run.

Lady India Sinclair will stop at nothing to live life on her own terms—even stealing a ship and fleeing to the Mediterranean. At last on her own, free to do as she pleases, she is determined to chart her own course. There's only one problem...

A gentleman determined to possess her.

Nicholas Warre has made a deal. To save his endangered estate, he will find Lady India, marry her and bring her back to England at the behest of her father. And with thousands at stake, he doesn't much care what the lady thinks of the idea. But as the two engage in a contest of wills, the heat between them becomes undeniable . . . and the wedding they each dread may lead to a love they can't live without.


MY REVIEW:  "A Wedding by Dawn" is a captivating historical romantic adventure from author Alison DeLaine. All of her life, Lady India Sinclair wished for one thing--freedom from the conventions and constrictions of a world ruled and dominated by men. A misfit and outcast within her own family, India had always known that she would never measure to society's expectations of a lady's proper behavior. Her domineering father had been merciless in his attempts to break her will and force her into a suitable marriage. Despite her beauty and title, her well-known misadventures and love of the seafaring life had narrowed the list of matrimonial prospects to gentleman willing to be bought by her father. With the help of her friend, Millie, India commandeers a friend's ship, and once again she escapes by sea, this time to the Mediterranean. Dressing as a man, and acting twice as bold, she thinks perhaps she has finally found a free life. However, she hadn't counted on the very determined Nicholas Warre, Lord Taggart, who comes bearing a marriage contract signed by her father. Nicholas is desperate to save his family estate from being confiscated by debt, and the generous sum paid by India's father as an inducement to marriage will solve his money problems. India herself is a world of trouble, even more vexing and desirable than he could have imagined. She wants nothing to do with marriage, and certainly nothing to do with him--even though he stirs new longings that she has never experienced. As the two of them engage in a battle of wills and fight the fiery attraction between them, something else begins to bloom between them. Each has secrets and personal issues shadowing their path, but will a growing mutual affection lead to joined hearts and the happiest of futures? For the most enjoyment read the author's trio of adventure-filled historical romances in this order: "A Gentleman 'Til Midnight"; "A Wedding by Dawn"; and "A Promise by Daylight".

Review Copy Gratis Author



The complication they don't want…...

Lady Katherine Kinloch survived captivity once. Now the notorious captain of her own ship, she refuses to let anyone jeopardize her hard-won freedom. But on a voyage to England to fight for her family's endangered estate, Katherine is thrown off course when she unknowingly rescues celebrated naval captain James Warre…, a man who stands for everything she despises. 

The passion they desperately need...… 

Haunted by regret for his role in her dark past, James is determined to be more than the cold, calculating officer Katherine expects. Her seduction is his obsession, but his pride hangs in the balance if he gives in to temptation. And hiding beneath the scorching attraction between them lies a secret that could force the two apart for good.





















A notorious rake…

In the aftermath of a near-fatal accident, the virile and charming Duke of Winston vowed to reform his ways. But for an infamous rogue, it's easier said than done. Hiring a personal medic, he sets about recovering from his injuries—and avoiding temptation at all costs. Little does Winston know, the one temptation he can't resist might be hiding before his very eyes.

Tenacious and untouched…

Without a friend or farthing in the world, posing as a man is Miss Millicent Germain's only chance to achieve her dream of becoming a physician. But working for the decadent duke is trickier than no-nonsense Millie anticipated—and his touch threatens to awaken her deepest desires. By daylight, the two are at odds…but by night, their attraction may prove undeniable.


ALISON DELAINE

















Saturday, December 6, 2014

AUTHOR MAXINE SULLIVAN—“The Australian Millionaires”—delicious contemporary romance—plus bonus recipes inspired by the sensational story lines!!!





















THE MILLIONAIRE’S SEDUCTIVE REVENGE by Maxine Sullivan



Millionaire Brant Matthews's desire for his secretary only fully ignited when she became engaged to his business partner. Brant knew Kia was not in love with the other man and set out to discover what game she was playing. A startling request to be a "pretend fiancée" allowed Kia a respite from Brant's relentless pursuit. Surely he wouldn't seduce her believing she belonged to another man. But Kia had severely underestimated how much Brant wanted her...or the revenge he would evoke when he revealed her engagement ruse.


MY REVIEW:  In “The Millionaire’s Seductive Revenge” by Maxine Sullivan, undeniable desire is fueled by underlying need. Brant Matthews looks upon Kia Benton as a self-serving money-seeker who uses her beauty to obtain what she wants. Kia sees Brant as a seducer and user of women, reminding her of her own wayward father. The fact that Kia works for Brant’s partner, Phil, as his personal assistant only adds to Brant’s speculations about Kia. When she appears to become engaged to Phil, Brant’s anger is as raging as his desire. He wants Kia for himself, and he determines to beat her at her own game. Soon, their attraction cannot be denied, and physical want overcomes logical thought. However, Kia and Brant each have a deep longing for more than just physical intimacy. Can they find true happiness in each other’s lives? An intensely passionate and compelling love story, filled with strong romantic imagery. This is the first book in Maxine Sullivan’s “Australian Millionaires” series, and I very much look forward to continuing the series!


Here are some of the tempting and tasty treats enjoyed by Kia and Brant as their story evolves:


English Trifle

2 pkgs. ladyfingers
1/2 cup rum or brandy
12 oz. strawberry preserves
2 (3 oz.) pkgs. regular vanilla pudding mix (not instant)
4 c. whole milk
1 large can sliced peaches, drained
1 pt. blueberries*
1 pt. raspberries or strawberries*
1 pt. heavy cream
1 tbsp. rum or brandy

*reserve small amount of berries for garnish
large clear glass bowl


Line bottom of the trifle bowl with 1/2 of the ladyfingers. Sprinkle with half of rum or brandy. Prepare vanilla pudding according to package directions using 4 cups milk. Top ladyfingers with 1/2 jar strawberry preserves. After pudding is partially cooled, put 1/2 pudding on top of preserves. Add a layer of 1/2 fruit (peaches and berries). Repeat using the remaining ladyfingers, rum or brandy, strawberry preserves, vanilla pudding, and fruit. Whip the cream — adding 1/2 ounce rum — and frost the top of the trifle. Garnish with remaining berries. Refrigerate. Can be made 1day ahead.

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Prawns in Cocktail Sauce

3 cups peeled, cooked prawns or shrimp
4 tbsp mayonnaise
1 tbsp creamed horseradish sauce
2 tbsp tomato ketchup
juice of one lemon or lime
2 cups torn Romaine lettuce pieces
1 lemon or lime, quartered


Combine mayonnaise, creamed horseradish, tomato ketchup, and lemon or lime juice into a mixing bowl. Stir in prawns or shrimp and combine well so that all prawns or shrimp are coated with sauce. Divide the torn lettuce pieces between 4 large wine glasses and top with the prawns and sauce. Decorate each glass with a wedge of lemon or lime.

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Strawberry-Kiwi Daiquiris

1 cup sliced strawberries
1 kiwi fruit peeled and quartered
2 tbsp sugar
2 tbsp lime juice
1/4 cup light rum
1/2 cup crushed ice

2 large strawberries for garnish

Blend all ingredients (except berry garnish) in blender until smooth. Serve in two tall stemmed glasses. For garnish: Make a slice across bottom of each strawberry and place on rim of each glass.

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Pineapple Scones

3 cups flour
1/3 cup sugar
2 1/1 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp salt
1/8 tsp nutmeg
3/4 cup butter
8 oz can crushed pineapple
3 tbsp chopped almonds

2 teaspoons milk
2 tablespoons sugar

In mixing bowl stir together flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and nutmeg. Cut in butter or margarine until mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Make a well in the center. Stir in undrained pineapple and almonds until dry ingredients are just moistened (dough will be sticky). On lightly floured surface, knead gently 10 to 12 strokes; roll dough to 1/4 inch thickness. Cut with floured 2 1/2 inch biscuit cutter. Place on ungreased baking sheet. Brush each scone with milk and sprinkle with sugar. Bake in 425F oven about 12 minutes. Serve warm with creamy whipped butter and tangy-sweet marmalade.





















THE TYCOON’S BLACKMAILED MISTRESS  by Maxine Sullivan


REVENGE IS SWEET

What better revenge for betrayal than taking possession of the betrayer's wife? Rich, powerful Flynn Donovan had devised the perfect plan. Knowing Danielle Ford would have no other means of settling her late husband's debt, Flynn called in his loan. And blackmailed her into becoming his mistress.


Then he discovered Danielle was pregnant ... with his enemy's child.


MY REVIEW:  In “The Tycoon’s Blackmailed Mistress”, the second book in Maxine Sullivan’s “Australian Millionaires”, awesome “Alpha Male” Flynn Donovan meets his match! Intending to seek revenge on the dead man who swindled him by seducing the man’s beautiful widow, Flynn is instead charmed and captivated by the lovely Danielle Ford. Fighting his attraction by continuing to remind himself that the widow is as guilty as her dead husband, Flynn cannot dismiss Danielle from his sensual imagination.


Discovering that she is pregnant by her late husband only increases his fascination, and he begins to wonder if she may be innocent of her husband’s misdeeds. Danielle is just as enthralled with Flynn, except that the last thing she wants or needs is another dominating, controlling man in her life. Her late husband brow-beat her into following his wishes, and after his death, his mother still tried to control Danielle. The bigger they are, the harder they fall. Flynn must learn to let go, and Danielle must learn to accept. It’s a lover’s compromise worth the while when two hearts and true love are involved!


The “Alpha Male” is the dominant leader of the pack. They have qualities and strengths which make them “number one”! Along with all that greatness can come arrogance, a “my way is the only way” attitude, and a sometimes ornery personality. However, their fierce devotion to their loved ones, their loyalty and their innate honor all go together quite nicely to smooth the rough edges. I love big, gruff, tough men who have even bigger hearts and an inner core of compassion. I also appreciate intelligence and humor, but kindness is the essential quality. Vulnerability is sometimes the key to an alpha male. What he may consider to be his weakness is actually the inner force which makes him an alpha. Flynn Donovan is a delicious “Alpha Male”! Speaking of delicious, here are some wonderful recipes similar to the fabulous food served to Flynn and Danielle:


Grilled Salmon with Fresh Mango Salsa


4  (6-ounce) salmon fillets (about 1 inch thick)
small amount light cooking oil
salt & pepper

Brush salmon fillets lightly with oil, and sprinkle lightly with salt and pepper. Prepare grill or broiler. Place salmon on grill rack or broiler pan coated with nonstick cooking spray; cook 5 minutes on each side or until salmon is done. Serve with Mango Salsa, hot fluffy rice, grilled garlic toast, and a basic green salad.

Mango Salsa:

1 mango, peeled and finely diced
1/4 cup minced red onion
2 Tbsp chopped cilantro or mint
Zest of 1 lime
1 Tbsp fresh squeezed lime juice
Salt, pepper, and hot sauce to taste


Combine all salsa ingredients in a small bowl, season to taste with salt, pepper, and hot sauce, and mix well.


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White Wine Sangria


1 Bottle of white wine (Riesling, Chablis, Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc)
2/3 cup white sugar
1 cup orange juice
3 oranges (sliced)
1 lemon (sliced)
1 lime (sliced)
1/2 liter of ginger ale
if desired, add more fruit such as sliced strawberries, peaches, fresh blueberries, raspberries, kiwi



Pour wine in a large clear glass pitcher and stir in orange juice. Add fruit and sugar. Stir well. Chill overnight. Add ginger ale or club soda just before serving.


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Hazelnut Fudge Parfaits


In a tall parfait glass, place one scoop of your favorite ice cream. Crumble some cookies of your choice (good way to use broken pieces), and add enough cookie pieces to cover ice cream. Top with a little Hazelnut Fudge syrup (half chocolate hazelnut spread & half hot fudge sauce, mixed well). Repeat. Top off with whipped cream, nuts, sprinkles, candy, cookie pieces…whatever you like. Just be sure to put a cherry on top :  )





















THE EXECUTIVE’S VENGEFUL SEDUCTION  by Maxine Sullivan


Damien Trent's time for revenge was at hand. The Australian businessman had bided his time, waiting for Gabrielle Kane to return. She'd "dared" to leave his bed years ago without a word...but now she needed him if she was to save her family's company. And Damien "would" lend his help...but his price was Gabrielle's hand in marriage. With five years of waiting behind him, Damien had no plans on making this a marriage in name only.


MY REVIEW:  Maxine Sullivan brings her “Australian Millionaires” series to a close with a powerful, passionate, and poignant love story in “The Executive’s Vengeful Seduction”! While this is an extremely sexy romance read, it is also a very deeply-felt reunion of two lost lovers. Gabrielle Kane walked out on her relationship with Damien Trent, and told him not to follow her. Five years later, still smarting from her departure, Damien seizes upon a business matter involving her father’s company as a way to bring Gabrielle back into his life. Damien’s reaction to Gabrielle is immediate and intense, and he soon manipulates her into marriage as a means of helping to save her ill father’s business from her unscrupulous cousin. Gabrielle is just as affected by Damien, and she had a good reason for leaving him when they were young. She had an even better reason for staying away–a reason her cousin uses in a blackmail attempt. Sizzling sensuality, secrets, and sentiments all come together in an unforgettable love story! Highly recommended!


One of the pleasures enjoyed by Damien and Gabrielle is fabulous food–like these great recipes:


Savory Beef Bake:


In an oven-proof Dutch Oven, brown two pounds beef tips (or cubes of sirloin or top round steak) and one large sliced onion in a small amount of olive oil. Lightly season with salt, black pepper and garlic salt. Brown well over low heat, stirring now and then to keep from sticking. When beef is evenly browned, add one cup of water to hot pan to deglaze the juices and small brown bits. Stir in one 14 oz can of beef broth and one cup of good red wine. Add several bay leaves. Cover and bake at 350 F for at least one hour, until beef is fork-tender. Add more liquid (water, broth, or wine) as needed to keep meat from drying out. Remove bay leaves before serving.




Scalloped Potatoes:

Spray a 2 1/2 to 3 qt casserole with nonstick cooking spray. Place a layer of sliced potatoes in bottom of dish. Sprinkle lightly with salt and pepper. Cover potatoes evenly with a layer of shredded sharp Cheddar cheese. Repeat once or twice again. Add enough cream or whole milk to bring liquid to top of potatoes. Sprinkle top with grated Parmesan cheese. Cover and bake at 350 F for at least one hour until potatoes are tender.

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Sensational Seafood Salad:

1 (16 ounce) package uncooked sea shell pasta
1/4 pound bacon
1 pound cooked shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 avocados – peeled, pitted and diced
1 cup shredded Cheddar cheese
1 cup cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
1 cup mayonnaise
1/4 cup lemon juice
1 tsp sugar
1/8  teaspoon crushed red pepper
dash of salt & pepper
4 cups leafy green lettuce, torn


Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Place pasta in the pot, cook for 8 to 10 minutes, until al dente, and drain. Rinse under cold running water to cool. Place bacon in a skillet over medium high heat, and cook until evenly brown. Drain and crumble. In a large bowl, gently toss together the pasta, bacon, shrimp, avocados, Cheddar cheese, and tomatoes. In a small bowl mix mayonnaise, lemon juice, sugar, red pepper flakes and salt & pepper to taste. Mix well and pour over salad, stirring to coat. Chill at least for several hours until flavors have blended. Serve salad over lettuce.

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Decadent Chocolate Pudding:


1/4 cup cornstarch
1/2 cup sugar
1/8 teaspoon salt
1 cup whole milk plus one pint heavy cream
1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
1 tablespoon rum
sweetened whipped cream, sliced strawberries, and chocolate sprinkles for garnish



Combine the cornstarch, sugar and salt in the top of a double boiler. Slowly whisk in the milk and cream, scraping the bottom and sides to blend in all the dry ingredients. Place over gently simmering water and stir occasionally, scraping the bottom and sides. Use a whisk to prevent lumps. After 15 to 20 minutes, when the mixture begins to thicken and coats the back of the spoon, slowly add the chocolate. Continue stirring for about 2 to 4 minutes, or until the pudding is smooth and thickened. Remove from the heat and stir in the rum. Pour into individual serving dishes. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least one hour. To serve, remove plastic wrap and top each pudding with whipped cream. Top with sliced strawberries and chocolate sprinkles.



MAXINE SULLIVAN









Thursday, October 2, 2014

FROM "THE COOK'S SHELF"--FOUR FABULOUS COOKBOOKS TO HELP YOU ADD FANTASTIC FLAVOR TO YOUR FALL COOKING





"The Chopped Cookbook: Use What You've Got to Cook Something Great" by Food Network Kitchens


Never again let the question, “What's for dinner?” stump you. The Chopped Cookbook features secrets for combining pantry staples to make exciting meals.
 

If you’ve ever looked into your fridge, hoping for inspiration to strike, let The Chopped Cookbook help you shake up weeknight dinners. Just as each basket on Chopped has many tasty possibilities, so, too, do the contents of your refrigerator. By showing you how to spin your favorite ingredients into 188 fun, doable, and delicious recipes—including go-to guides for making salad dressings and pan sauces, four-ingredient market baskets that can go in many tasty directions, and ideas for ways to reinvent pasta dinners—the culinary masterminds at Food Network set you up for mealtime victory every night.



MY REVIEW:  The mischievous minds behind the popular Food Network Channel program, "Chopped", have put together a fun, user-friendly cookbook that makes the most of what you've got and offers suggestions for what you don't have. Carrying forward the spirit of the TV show, without the weird, way-out recipe ingredient combinations, the authors have come up with a handy, helpful, handsome volume of deliciously different dishes. While "The Chopped Cookbook: Use What You've Got to Cook Something Great" is smaller in size than a typical cookbook, it is loaded with fabulous color photos of food that definitely looks good enough to eat. "The Chopped Pantry" section starts things off right by telling you which pantry staples will help you to achieve your culinary objectives like "Crunch", "Brothiness", or "Richness". There are helpful hints and cooking tips all throughout the book, but there are no nutritional breakdowns for the recipes. While I found much to like in every chapter, the vegetable recipes really caught my eye along with the short, simple guide to buying the pick of the crop. Here are some of the recipes that I found especially appealing: "Tortellini with Cream Cheese Alfredo and Peas"; "Grilled Chicken with Peach Pickle BBQ Sauce"; "Cumin Pork Steak with Grilled Savoy Cabbage and Apples"; "Moroccan Carrot Salad"; "Cremini Carpaccio"; "Tomato-Cheddar Gratin"; "Roasted Shrimp Cocktail Salad"; "Warm Salted Caramel Banana Pudding"; and "Mocha Brownies with Coffee and Cinnamon". Get "Chopped" now--what's in YOUR basket?

 
Review Copy Gratis Amazon Vine





"My Irish Table: Recipes from the Homeland and Restaurant Eve" by Cathal Armstrong, David Hagedorn


The debut cookbook from Cathal Armstrong featuring 130 recipes showcasing modern Irish fare, along with stories about Armstrong's journey from Dublin to Washington, DC, and becoming an internationally recognized four-star chef, the owner of seven successful food and drink establishments, and a leader in the sustainable-food movement.


With its moderate climate and amazing natural resources, Ireland is a modern-day Eden, boasting lush, bountiful produce, world-renowned dairy, plentiful seafood, and grass-fed meats. In My Irish Table, sustainable food movement leader and four-star chef Cathal Armstrong celebrates the food of his homeland and chronicles his culinary journey from Dublin to Washington DC, where he runs seven beloved and critically lauded restaurants.

Featuring 130 delicious recipes—from Kerrygold Butter-Poached Lobster with Parsnips to Irish Stew, Shepherd’s Pie, and Mam’s Apple Pie—My Irish Table draws on Armstrong’s Irish upbringing as well as his professional experience and French culinary training. In his hands, Irish food is comforting yet elegant, rustic yet skillful, and My Irish Table invites you into his kitchen to explore the vibrant traditions and rich culinary landscape of the Emerald Isle.



MY REVIEW:  Combining traditional Irish fare with French cuisine and his own creative blend of cultures and cooking trends, noted chef and restaurateur Cathal Armstrong invites all to feast from "My Irish Table". Along with contributor David Hagedorn, a recognized chef, restaurateur and food writer, Armstrong offers a compelling memoir and a fabulous, flavorful cookbook. At the heart of Armstrong's food life is his early childhood in Dublin with his family. His "Mam" was the baker supreme, and his "Da" was the avid gardener and cook. His father's love of gardening would literally plant the seed for Armstrong's involvement in the sustainable food movement and lead him to grow his own restaurant garden. Armstrong's lively recollection of his journey from cooking novice to acclaimed chef is quite entertaining. The side notes and stories accompanying each recipe add much to the enjoyment of this delightful book. Among the recollections and recipes: "Irish Breakfast"; "Potato and Leek Soup"; "Shepherd's Pie"; "Fish and Chips with Tartar Sauce"; "Spiced Beef Sandwiches"; "Irish Caesar Salad"; "Irish Coffee"; "Brussels Sprouts with Bacon"; "Cauliflower with Toasted Garlic and Black Pepper"; "Potato Rolls"; "Irish Soda Bread"; "Scones"; "Mam's Apple Pie"; "Lemon Cake"; "Mincemeat" and "Mince Pies"; and so much more. The descriptions of Ireland and its natural wonders which make it an internationally renowned producer of cheese, butter, meats, produce and many other consumables are indeed enticing. Potatoes are my favorite food since childhood, and the recipes and notes involving potatoes and Kerrygold butter put me in a little "potato paradise" all my own.


Review Copy Gratis Ten Speed Press via Blogging for Books




“My Paris Kitchen: Recipes and Stories” by David Lebovitz


A collection of stories and 100 sweet and savory French-inspired recipes from popular food blogger David Lebovitz, reflecting the way Parisians eat today and featuring lush photography taken around Paris and in David's Parisian kitchen.


It’s been ten years since David Lebovitz packed up his most treasured cookbooks, a well-worn cast-iron skillet, and his laptop and moved to Paris. In that time, the culinary culture of France has shifted as a new generation of chefs and home cooks—most notably in Paris—incorporates ingredients and techniques from around the world into traditional French dishes.


In My Paris Kitchen, David remasters the classics, introduces lesser-known fare, and presents 100 sweet and savory recipes that reflect the way modern Parisians eat today. You’ll find Soupe à l’oignon, Cassoulet, Coq au vin, and Croque-monsieur, as well as Smoky barbecue-style pork, Lamb shank tagine, Dukkah-roasted cauliflower, Salt cod fritters with tartar sauce, and Wheat berry salad with radicchio, root vegetables, and pomegranate. And of course, there’s dessert: Warm chocolate cake with salted butter caramel sauce, Duck fat cookies, Bay leaf poundcake with orange glaze, French cheesecake...and the list goes on. David also shares stories told with his trademark wit and humor, and lush photography taken on location around Paris and in David’s kitchen reveals the quirks, trials, beauty, and joys of life in the culinary capital of the world.



MY REVIEW:  Who better than acclaimed chef and writer David Lebovitz--living in France for the last decade--to give us an up-close, first-person view of the "food life" in Paris. "My Paris Kitchen" is filled with fabulous food, intriguing local flavors, beautiful photos, and a real feeling for the author's everyday life in "The City of Light". A gifted and entertaining writer, David Lebovitz invites us in, takes us on a taste-filled tour, and enlightens us with his culinary expertise and food insights. His knowledgeable, useful explanations for ingredients and kitchen equipment are a cooking course themselves. The recipes and recipe notes are equally delicious, and the accompanying stories are charming. The recipes range from rustic to elegant, and you will long to be seated in a real Paris kitchen--taking in the amazing scents, sights, and the sounds of the language--as you await an exceptional eating experience. Here are some of the wonderful recipes included in "My Paris Kitchen": "Salted Olive Crisps"; "Onion Tart"; "Fresh Herb Omelet"; "Ham, Blue Cheese, and Pear Quiche"; "Steak with Mustard Butter and French Fries"; "Scalloped Potatoes with Blue Cheese and Roasted Garlic"; "Butternut Squash Crumble"; "Salted Butter Caramel-Chocolate Mousse"; and "Paris-Paris"--a recipe for scrumptious éclairs. As the author says: "There are two kinds of butter in France--good butter and great butter."


Review Copy Gratis Ten Speed Press via Blogging for Books








“The Homesick Texan's Family Table: Lone Star Cooking from My Kitchen to Yours” by Lisa Fain

From beloved food blogger Lisa Fain, aka the Homesick Texan, comes this follow-up to her wildly popular debut cookbook, featuring more than 125 recipes for wonderfully comforting, ingredient-driven Lone Star classics that the whole family will love.



There are few things finer than a delicious, homemade meal shared with family and friends. Take it from Lisa Fain, a seventh-generation Texan who loves to cook and serve up the best dishes her home state has to offer—even though she now lives half a country away.


The Homesick Texan’s Family Table showcases more than 100 of Lisa’s best and most-loved recipes, ranging from down-home standards (think cheesy nachos, comforting chicken and dumplings, and fiery wings) to contemporary riffs on the classics (who knew adding Mexican spices to a German chocolate cake would taste so good?).


All of Lisa’s recipes are made with fresh, seasonal ingredients, yet still packed with real Texas flavor that will make your grandmother smile. Whether you’re looking for a party-friendly snack like Pigs in Jalapeño Blankets, a Mustard Coleslaw to bring as a side to your next potluck, a weeknight- and family-friendly meal like Steak Fingers with Cream Gravy, or a mouthwatering dessert like Ruby Red Grapefruit and Pecan Sheet Cake, The Homesick Texan’s Family Table has you covered. After all, with some mighty fine food and mighty fine people to enjoy it, any meal can be cause for celebration.

 

MY REVIEW:  Popular food writer and blogger Lisa Fain is known as "The Homesick Texan"--a seventh-generation Texan who now lives in New York City. Her self-titled blog and debut cookbook have been a great success, and she further delights and entertains readers and cooks with "The Homesick Texan's Family Table". Filled with beautiful color photos of fabulous food, pretty pastoral scenes of the Texas landscape and other subjects, and recipes that rock the house, this cookbook is also a memoir of why each recipe was included in the book. Beginning with an illuminating section on chile peppers--a Texas cooking essential--the chapters then lead us from "Breakfast and Breads" all the way through to "Sweets" and "Accompaniments". The ingredients are fresh and flavorful, and tradition is often given a tasty tweak with a new spin on an old favorite. Good food just naturally goes with good company and good times. Here are some of the recipes that tempt and tantalize my taste buds: "Bacon-Molasses Breakfast Sausage"; "Bacon-Cheddar Chipotle Biscuits"; "Pico De Gallo Deviled Eggs"; "Apple-Walnut Salad"; "Chipotle-Blue Cheese Wedge Salad"; "Cowboy Beans"; "Balsamic-Tarragon Glazed Ham"; "Southeast Texas Gumbo"; "Coffee-Chipotle Pork Chops"; "Butterscotch Brownies"; "Mexican Chocolate Cake"; and "Cranberry-Green Chile Salsa". You will greatly enjoy sharing the many delicious recipes offered by Lisa Fain at your own family table.


Review Copy Gratis Ten Speed Press via Blogging for Books