Customer Rating: 
Summary: Would have been better with some colour photography inside. (And where was the Rose Pouchong?).
Comment: There were no colour photographs anywhere in the book, in fact no photographs at all, which was a disappointment, as I like to drool over lovely colour photography of appetising teas and cakes, it adds to the appeal of any book on this subject. (I guess it kind of made up for it with the inclusion of the cd though, which is very nice to listen to with some pleasant music).
I have to ask though, why no mention of Rose Pouchong tea? I know it is not easily obtainable now but you would expect it to be included in a book such as this one. It is my favourite tea and I mourn its passing. I guess even tea has to be dumbed down for the great British public!
Also, no mention of seed cake in the recipe sections.
So, two glaring omissions there alone, quite apart from no yummy pictures to drool over. But three stars instead of two, because you do get the cd.
Customer Rating:
Summary: A Spectacular book on Afternoon Tea
Comment: This is a wonderful book and has fantastic recipes. I have tried many of them and so far they are all very good. There is a large range of variety and it is interesting to have the different famous tea rooms contribute from around the world. I have throughly enjoyed it and happy to have it in my collection of cook books.
Customer Rating:
Summary: Food & music: a classic combination
Comment: This made a unique wedding shower gift for a young bride moving to England with little knowledge of their customary afternoon "High Tea". She was thrilled with my gift. The music is an exquisite accompanment to the recipes. If you want a gift that is more than just another cookbook, then this is a sure winner.
Customer Rating:
Summary: So-so
Comment: The music is very lovely, and the history and background on tea and its uses over time are somewhat interesting, but it's just a little too high-brow for me. The recipes are a little too labor-intensive.
Customer Rating:
Summary: Excellent Book to Learn and Enjoy the Art of Afternoon Tea!
Comment: I recently purchased this great idea! It's a cookbook, along with a CD! It's called "Afternoon Tea Serenade" by Sharon O'Connor. The author is a musician, and author, as well as a cook. Afternoon Tea Serenade is her 12th release!The book contained within this set is great! I enjoy books that not only offer you the recipes, but also offer you history and techniques. This book tells you not only the origination of tea (the drink, that is), but also the custom of "afternoon tea". There are tips on how to choose tea, how to brew the perfect cup of tea, how to make iced tea, as well as how to make some herbal teas! She suggests how to pick suitable tea cups, and offers some suggestions as to how to throw a themed tea party, such as a Bridal Shower Tea.
The book is filled with recipes from famous tea houses in the United States, England and Ireland. Such recipes include Welsh Rarebit, Cucumber and Mint Sandwiches, as well as Barmbrack. I have tried quite a few of the recipes and they each have turned out wonderfully.
Included within this set is a CD, which contains classical music to set the atmosphere. When I listened to this CD, I felt like I was back in the late 1800s during Victorian times! Artists on this CD include Bach and Mozart. Each piece is wonderful, and I am sure you will recognizea few, if not all of the pieces!
Treat yourself, or a friend, to something special this Spring, and buy this set! Then, call over your family and friends and have yourself a tea party!
