Lavender is a guide dedicated to the wonderful perennial herb which includes recipes and tutorials by Bonnie Louise Gillis. Due out 27th April 2021 from Sasquatch Books, it's 208 pages and will be available in hardcover and ebook formats.
This is a well written guide to lavender culture and use. The information is presented accessibly and thematically in a logically arranged manner so that it's easy to find the info again when needed. The introductory chapters include some background history, a little botany, a good overview of growing and harvesting, a tiny bit of chemistry and some info about oils (both essential and carrier oils for infusion).
The following chapters contain the recipes, arranged thematically: body (massage), mind (aromatherapy/relaxation), skin treatments, home environment, gifts, and cooking with lavender. Recipes include a description, ingredients listed bullet style in a sidebar, and step-by-step directions. Measurements are given in American standard only. Recipe ingredients are easily sourced and most will be available at any well stocked grocery store or health-food boutique.
The author and publisher have linked to the bibliography on the publisher's website instead of including it in the book. I was given an eARC for review purposes so the bibliography may be in the final retail release copy. The included index is cross-referenced and recipes and terms are easy to find in the text. The photography is clear, abundant, illustrative, and in color throughout.
This would be a good choice for library acquisition, gifting to a gardening/cooking friend, or for the gardener's home library. There are many classic recipes here as well as many intriguing modern twists. I intend to try out the recipe for apricot-lavender scones this weekend.
Four stars.
Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.
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