"The Lost Bookshop" by Evie Woods intertwines beautifully with the rich, savory experience of enjoying a warm Skillet Beer Cheese Dip paired with a crisp Spritz Royale cocktail. Just as the dip brings together the comforting tastes of cheddar and beer, Evie Woods' novel weaves together stories of characters seeking solace and discovery. The Spritz Royale, a light cocktail with notes of elderflower, complements the dip's savory flavors and enhances the unfolding narrative with its refreshing zest. This pairing is perfect for a cozy evening immersed in a story of finding one's path and place through cherished books, while savoring delicious bites and sips.
Ingredients
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
- 1 cup beer (lager or ale)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 strips of bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 2 green onions, sliced
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook Garlic: In a large oven-safe skillet, heat a little oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Make the Cheese Mixture: Reduce the heat to low and add the cream cheese to the skillet, stirring until melted and smooth. Gradually pour in the beer, stirring continuously until well combined.
- Add Cheese and Spices: Slowly add the cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses, stirring until fully melted and smooth. Add the Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. Mix until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Bake: Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for about 15 minutes, or until the dip is bubbly and golden on top.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and garnish with crumbled bacon and sliced green onions. Serve immediately with your choice of dippers.
The Lost Bookshop
A tale of discovery, love, and adventure, "The Lost Bookshop" follows the journeys of individuals who find themselves drawn to a mysterious bookshop that changes their lives. Through the stories of the patrons, the novel explores themes of belonging and the transformative power of books.
**Evie Woods' stunning new novel The Story Collector is available now** The Echo of Old Books meets The Lost Apothecary in this evocative and charming novel full of mystery and secrets.
Discussion Questions
- How does the bookshop serve as more than just a setting in the story?
- What role do the books featured in the story play in character development?
- Discuss the themes of belonging and identity in "The Lost Bookshop".
- How do the characters' paths weave together to create a cohesive narrative?
- What is the significance of the mysterious bookshop in the characters' lives?
- Explore the use of literary references to enhance the storytelling.
- How does "The Lost Bookshop" comment on the power of reading and books?
- What did you think of the ending? Was it satisfying or surprising?
- How does the author balance different character arcs within the novel?
- In what ways does the bookshop facilitate personal transformation for the characters?
Authors:
Evie Woods
ISBN: 9781234567890
Publisher: HarperCollins UK
Published Date: 2023-06-22
ISBN: 9781234567890
Publisher: HarperCollins UK
Published Date: 2023-06-22
Spritz Royale
The Spritz Royale is a light and refreshing cocktail that pairs perfectly with savory appetizers. Featuring elderflower liqueur, prosecco, and a splash of club soda, this drink offers a floral and citrusy revitalization, enhancing flavorful bites with its crispness and effervescence.
Ingredients
- 3 oz Prosecco
- 1 oz elderflower liqueur
- 1 oz club soda
- Lemon twist, for garnish
Instructions
- Fill a wine glass with ice.
- Pour in the elderflower liqueur and Prosecco.
- Top with a splash of club soda and gently stir.
- Garnish with a lemon twist before serving.