SeductiveTables For Two: Tablescapes, Picnics, and Recipes That Inspire Romance (Volume 1)

I'd never heard of her until this book showed up on my Amazon Recommended list about two weeks ago. I still don't know who she is, but Wikipedia says she's an interior designer and a lifestyle expert. I usually steer clear of "lifestyle experts" a la Martha Stewart and the host of others who make it seem as if cooking or throwing a party requires a Ph.D. But, two things made me take a chance on this book. First, the title was catchy. "Seductive Tables For Two" made me think about intimacy and sexiness, which is a far different approach from the standard entertaining book that basically encourages you to invite 50 people over and impress them with your pot roast. The second thing that made me take a chance on this book was the price. 13 bucks! It was well within my budget.The verdict? I really enjoyed this book! The author did not disappoint me in the slightest. I've reviewed many entertaining and cooking books, and I can usually find some irritating factor in most of them. I have absolutely no complaints about this book. It is written in a down-to-earth manner--no pretenses, no $200 per person meals, and no $40,000 birthday parties for a 1-year-old. The book's focus is the content, not the author. Sure, there are several pictures of her throughout the entire book, but not so many as to make it sickening. That may seem like a small thing, but it really impressed me because so many of these books are centered on the author and his/her celebrity status. You'll see 100 pictures of them with other celebrities, or they'll tell you all about the time they hosted a party for the latest and greatest big whig. It makes the reader feel like an outsider looking in. This book definitely did not do that, and I was grateful.The book is divided into 4 major sections: (1) Seductive Tables for Two, (2) Seduction to Go, (3) Seductive Celebrations, and (4) Seductive Recipes for Two. The first section showcases several beautifully designed intimate tables that step outside the ordinary. For example, there's one called "Sensual Sea Escape." The design colors are shades of orange, red, and gold. That's definitely not the standard blue and white you see for so many sea-theme designs. The "Artichoke Affair" features bright purples and greens and is based on a wine country theme. I loved it. The second part of the book features meals outside the home--a picnic, an alfresco dinner, a kicked-up hotdog dinner, etc. Part 3 shows intimate celebrations such as "Hanukkah Nightcap", a tiffany blue and white "Giving Tree" evening in which she suggests focusing on adopting a christmas angel, working at a local shelter during the holidays, or helping out with other charities. The last part of the book gives recipes for breakfasts, lunches, and dinners. You can mix and match them based on the tables she has designed for the book. The book also includes helpful tips such as good hostess gifts, what items to pack for a picnic, and which spices to keep on hand.I haven't tried any of the recipes yet, but here is a sample of them so you can get an idea of what they are like: cheese and eggs with salsa and sour cream, marinated chicken breast on ciabatta with pesto and mixed greens, chilled shrimp with a simple remoulade, asian salad in a jar (this one looks great for a picnic), a moroccan spiced hamburger, greek kebabs, and three-tomato pasta sauce.

This is cute book to have on the shelf. Perfect for couples who want to spice up some fun and do a dinner or lunch that is something outside of the norm. It has everything from breakfast in bed, picnics, backyard hangouts and more. I'm glad I purchased this book and can't wait to do some of the ideas.

Wonderful book, pictures and information to use within many different settings. Very descriptive in sharing info on what makes and bring interest and excitement to a table and room setting.

Keeping the passion alive is important in any relationship. This is a MUST have for improving yours. Great ideas for all occasions!

The only HUGE concern I have is the way the book is constructed. The cover tears from the binding since there is no fold line, so I'm disappointed that I now own a TORN book. :(