Afternoon Tea Serenade-A Book Review
by Jennifer A. Wickes
copyright 2002

I recently purchased this great idea! It's a cookbook, along with a CD! It's called "Afternoon Tea Serenade" by Sharon O'Connor. The author is a musician, and author, as well as a cook. Afternoon Tea Serenade is her 12th release!

The book contained within this set is great! I enjoy books that not only offer you the recipes, but also offer you history and techniques. This book tells you not only the origination of tea (the drink, that is), but also the custom of "afternoon tea". There are tips on how to choose tea, how to brew the perfect cup of tea, how to make iced tea, as well as how to make some herbal teas! She suggests how to pick suitable tea cups, and offers some suggestions as to how to throw a themed tea party, such as a Bridal Shower Tea.

The book is filled with recipes from famous tea houses in the United States, England and Ireland. Such recipes include Welsh Rarebit, Cucumber and Mint Sandwiches. as well as Barmbrack. I have tried quite a few of the recipes and they each have turned out wonderfully.

Included within this set is a CD, which contains classical music to set the atmosphere. When I listened to this CD, I felt like I was back in the late 1800s during Victorian times! Artists on this CD include Bach and Mozart. Each piece is wonderful, and I am sure you will recognize a few, if not all of the pieces!

Treat yourself, or a friend, to something special this Spring, and buy this set! Then, call over your family and friends and have yourself a tea party!

About the Author
Jennifer is a wife and mom who began cooking when she was 9 years old, and later, began taking classes. She has lived in a variety of places and has picked up a variety of techniques. Jennifer has won contests for her recipes and cooking, plus she writes a monthly article at Suite101.com, as well as runs TheSeasonalKitchen.com, and her ownYahoo Group.