Today: A novel idea.

[tweetmeme source=”elizabethev” only_single=false]It’s no secret that I love to read.  Right now I am in the middle of five different books.  It’s sort of a problem.  I recently finished The Kitchen House (and loved it).  When I got to the end, I noticed an interview with the author.  I usually skip over these book club-type sections, mostly because I have four other books to finish, but something about this interview drew me in.

I don’t want to spoil the plot, because I think this novel is definitely worth reading, but Kathleen Grissom’s description of how she developed the storyline and characters was fascinating. I’ve always wanted to write a book, but wasn’t exactly sure how that actually happens.  I am sure it’s different for everyone, but Grissom’s revelations were quite fascinating.  Perhaps my kooky imagination could play to my advantage?

Tucked within the interview was a recipe for Belle’s molasses cake, which appears throughout the novel.  I figured if the cake was half as good as the book, it would be mighty tasty.

I flagged the page (wahoo for Post-its), picked up all the ingredients… and then completely forgot about it.  Until this afternoon.

The recipe is simple and easy to follow, right up my alley.  I wasn’t sure what it would taste like but, um, molasses is a good source of iron.  Or whatever.  Give me a baked good, and I will rationalize eating it for you.  When I pulled the pan from the oven I thought two things:

1. I wish I had a square cake stand.
2. This smells insane.

If that’s not reason enough to pick up a book, I don’t know what is.

Also On Tap for Today:

• I love the 80’s: cakes edition
• Getting my act together for the week ahead
• Not sure what to read next?

What was the last book that inspired you? What’s on your summer reading list?