Reviews

To lovers of classic food books, Janet Ross's name is recognisable - the eminent Elizabeth David cited her as a source, and her work changed the way the English thought about vegetables - but few know much about the life she lived. Janet was an extraordinary woman. Born in 1842 to a gifted and unconventional British upper-class family, as a young girl she was a muse to writes and artists. She earned the admiration of Bedouin chiefs for her adventurous spirit while living in Egypt as a young bride. The financial ruin of her banker husband, Henry, led the couple to Italy and there they fell in love with the land, its people, food, art and culture. Their home became a drawcard for the interesting and talented, including Mark Twain and Bernard Berenson. It was in Italy that Janet truly discovered her gifts for agriculture, food and writing. In this fascinating biography, author Sarah Benjamin details Janet's passion for nature and food and uncovers a life shot through with talent, generosity, ideas, family secrets and intrigue.

... fascinating insight into a captivating life.