I have just spent 2 weeks in Tuscany, so my friend, Sandy Z., thought I would like this book. I've read this author's other memoirs of Tuscany and thoroughly enjoyed them, so I look forward to reading this and remembering my visit to that beautiful region of Italy.

trade paperback

The author chronicles her continuing, two decades-long love affair with Tuscany's people, art, cuisine, and lifestyle. Includes recipes.

I saw this on dvg's wishlist and am sending to her as part of a trade.

Arrived safely in NJ! Thank you for the trade! I have read and enjoyed many books by this author. I look forward to visiting Tuscany via the pages of this book. Already have another reader in mind for it too.

I am a fan of Frances Mayes. When I read her books, I feel like I am right there beside her. This was no exception. I felt like I was traveling through Tuscany and it’s villages. The descriptions were vivid, the food sounded amazing and I am happy she included a few recipes to try. I am looking forward to visiting Tuscany but in the meantime, I will travel with Frances.

Saw that you liked my review of this book and decided to surprise you with this copy to enjoy for yourself. Happy Reading and Happy BookCrossing!

Thanks so much for this one - I liked her other books on Tuscany. I appreciate your RABCK!

I found this another lovely, well written book that takes the reader to romantic northern Italy. I realize it's a bit slow moving in parts, but as this was my 'bedside book' (something nice / non taxing to read before bed) it didn't bother me at all. The book's place was perfect for its topic - basically la dolce vita.

Mayes takes us on a trip through the lovely town of Cortona and its surroundings. We are treated to descriptions of its food (and some recipes), its people, and its art and architecture. I have been driven to the internet to find images of some of the paintings of Luca Signorelli and churches in the area. I've flagged a few recipes ( Zuppa di Cavil Nero, Cannellini, e Salsicce aka Kale, White Bean and Sausage soup) for experimentation. Yes, this is a romantic look at the area - a place where meals can last for 5 or more hours and the author befriends strangers with almost no effort. But it was a pleasant diversion and just continued to whet my appetite to see this area of the world.

Quotes I liked:

As with other great hill towns, you can wander through Urbino in an hour and see the place or settle in for a decade and not reach the end.

You really can't be in a hurry in Italy.

I cam to Italy for the art, the cuisine, landscapes, history, architecture, wine, and the ineffable beauty. I stayed for the people. Cortona has a grand congregation of hearty, hospitable, generous souls.

Carpe diem. Carpe lucem. Seize the day. Seize the light.

Reserving for the NF VBB