lovely jubbly london

Recently Read

Tigers in Red Weather

{US} {UK}

I really don't know what to make of this book. I liked most of it. I couldn't wait for the end and then, something changed for me. I'm still puzzled.

Recently Read

A Discovery of Witches {UK} {US}

Someone recommended this book to me ages ago so when it popped up as the kindle daily deal, I didn't hesitate to buy it. At $2.99, it wasn't a huge commitment even though I was a little iffy on the subject matter.

I loved it.

It was one of those books I didn't want to put down (or for it to finish). I'm now counting down the days until book 2 is published.

Hall's Bookshop

I have a slight obsession when it comes to antiquarian books and Hall's Bookshop in Tunbridge Wells is one of my favourite spots.

 I don't ever buy anything really old (aka expensive), just books I love or want to love.

I never manage to leave Hall's without a stack of books and my biggest secret is that I buy classics in bulk to give as gifts. If you're an expat like me, your American relatives and friends will love receiving a classic English novel. The best part is (and this is really the secret)- you can pick up an old classic for less than £10! It's a win-win.

 

Hall's Bookshop

20-22 Chapel Place

Tunbridge Wells

The Winter Sea by Susanna Kearsley {Sophia's Secret}

{UK} {US}

The first reason I bought this book is because it was a Kindle deal of a day. The second was because it sounded slightly Outlander-esque.

I was a bit wary due to the second reason and while at times it was a little close to Outlander due to the time period involved, it ended up being a good choice. One scene in particular managed to make tears stream down my face. If you like historical fiction with a modern tale woven into the story, this one is for you.

Gift Guide {paper}

1. Today, Tomorrow, Someday Jotter. Perfect for the list maker in your life.

2. Kate Spade Thank You Cards. Old fashioned thank you notes never go out of style.

3. Vintage Covers. E-reader cases made from real books! 

4. Q & A A Day. A five year single line journal with daily questions like, 'What can you smell right now?'.

5. Tabletopics. Conversations starters for any occasion. 

Spineless Classics

I discovered the most amazing thing at Selfridges- entire books printed onto a single a sheet of poster paper! Spineless Classics are amazing works of art any book lover would appreciate. The only tough decision will be deciding which one to buy. 

The Hunger Games

I didn't know if I would like these books.

 Kids killing kids?

Kids forced by the government to kill other kids?

And it's all televised?

Majorly creepy.

And majorly amazing.

{UK} {US}

It's only £12 for the trilogy.

Read them all before the first movie comes out next year.

May the odds be ever in your favour.

I'm Loving {August Edition}

September is here and fall is on the way. These are things that made me happy in August.

 

The most delicious yogurt on the planet. If you like coconut go buy this today. Imagine a creamy yogurt with miniscule bits of coconut. It reminds me of a pina colada. 

 

A best selling author taking the time to comment on a blog? Amazing! Seriously, go buy Saving CeeCee Honeycutt.

Dunkin Donuts K-Cups. I love my Keurig and I love DD so this is a win, win combination. A box is on its way to me and I know I won't be disappointed.

 

Maybelline Volume Express Turbo Boost. This is probably the first drugstore mascara I have used that has *never* given me clumps. I don't know that it gives a lot of volume but it definitely makes my lashes look pretty.
 

Recently Read

Gods in Alabama (US) (UK ) 

A book that ended with some twists I did not see coming.

 

Saving CeeCee Honeycutt (US) (UK )

Probably one of my favourite books of the year. I fell in love with CeeCee and wanted to save her myself! Sweet book full of southern charm and laughs.

 

Minny's Chocolate Pie {from The Help}

If you've read The Help, you know the large part food plays in the book. Of course, you also know the legend that is Minny's famous chocolate custard pie. 

 

Recipes have been making the rounds inspired by the book and this one comes from Food & Wine magazine. This recipe is actually by the woman who made the pies for the movie. In fact, she made over 50 of these very pies!

Minus the special ingredient of course.

Now let me tell you, this pie is seriously delicious. I would say probably one of the best chocolate pies I have ever eaten.

Seriously, go make it right now. It's easy I swear.

 

Minny's Chocolate Pie

1 ready made pie crust or make your own

1 1/2 cups sugar

3 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa

4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

2 large eggs, beaten

1 teaspoon vanilla

1/4 teaspoon salt

(plus whipped cream for garnish)

Preheat oven to 350F (175C). Place crust in 9 inch pie pan and prick lightly. Line with foil or parchment and fill with beans or rice. Blind bake for 15 minutes. Remove beans/rice and bake for further 5 minutes until crust appears dry but not brown.

In bowl, whisk together all ingredients until smooth. Pour into pie crust and bake 45 minutes, rotating half way through and covering crust with foil if needed. Filling is done when appears set with slight jiggle in the center. Cool completely before serving and refrigerate if required.

Garnish with whipped cream and enjoy!

recipe from: Food & Wine

Note: I baked until entire pie was set including the middle which took about 40 minutes. It turned out perfect as you can see above. I was worried if the middle was jiggly it wouldn't set and I'm glad I left it until it was completely done.