Cassandra Bates, Regional Co-Coordinator
Dearest readers, I am back! I have longed to write you with news of my exploits. I have had the pleasure of having Dinner with Mr. Darcy! No, not actually, but I have come across a most wonderful book: Dinner with Mr. Darcy by Pen Vogler. I must tell you, reader, it is a beautiful book! The recipes are very easy to follow and even include historical receipts. The pictures of the entrees are simply stunning and transport you to another time of breeches and waistcoats and cravats. I must stop, tis too much! Each section of the book includes a wonderful introduction to the history of the various meals (breakfast, tea, dinner, etc) along with various passages from Miss Austen’s novels. Mind you the recipes are U.K. standards and so may take some conversions, but I have found that very little is required in that the author did a thorough job at ensuring all could enjoy the recipes. Overall, this book is an excellent addition to anyone’s Austen bookshelf.