So much more than a cookbook, this is a story of the Europe of long ago where the kitchen was a magic place, presided over by the genius of the ladies of the castles and entrusted to their gifted peasant cooks who used their herb gardens as passionately as a painter uses his palette. Each page carries a message from the author to the reader, telling of the joys of good cooking. It is a book that will add to the pleasures of the table-and make an art of a routine function of life. A source of inspiration to the American hostess for whom is was written. In Magic in Herbs, Leonie de Sounin, an imaginative cook and highly skilled teacher, invites you into her herb-scented kitchen to share in the simple preparation of incomparable meals. Here is a tempting journey into the world of herb-seasoned cookery. The directions for getting there are clear and uncomplicated, based on time-tested old-world recipes. Basil and chives, marjoram, thyme, rosemary and all the other herbs clearly mark this road to culinary discovery-made easy to follow for seasoned veteran and curious beginner.