The cozy and inviting Tomato Basil Soup pairs perfectly with "What Lies in the Woods" by Kate Alice Marshall, a gripping and atmospheric novel. Both the soup's warm, comforting nature and the mystery of the book are beautifully complemented by a classic wine spritzer, offering a refreshing contrast and enhancement to the experience. Together, these elements create a harmonious moment of relaxation and intrigue, perfect for a book club meeting. The soup invites exploration, much like the twists of the tale you are about to immerse yourself in.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 5-6 large tomatoes, chopped (or 2 cans of crushed tomatoes)
- 3 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Sauté the Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until softened and fragrant.
- Add Tomatoes and Broth: Stir in the chopped tomatoes and broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes.
- Blend the Soup: Remove from heat and add the chopped basil leaves. Use an immersion blender to blend the soup until smooth. If using, stir in the heavy cream.
- Season and Serve: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve hot.
What Lies in the Woods
A suspenseful and twisted mystery that delves into the secrets and lies hidden in a small town.
They were eleven when they sent a killer to prison. They were heroes . . . but they were liars. Kate Alice Marshall's What Lies in the Woods is a thrilling novel about friendship, secrets, betrayal, and lies – and having the courage to face the past. "Clever and deliciously dark.” —Alice Feeney, bestselling author of Rock Paper Scissors “Unexpected plot twists, deep psychological perspicacity, and an endlessly interesting dance between past and present…evokes the dread and intensity of Gillian Flynn’s Sharp Objects.” —New York Times Book Review Naomi Shaw used to believe in magic. Twenty-two years ago, she and her two best friends, Cassidy and Olivia, spent the summer roaming the woods, imagining a world of ceremony and wonder. They called it the Goddess Game. The summer ended suddenly when Naomi was attacked. Miraculously, she survived her seventeen stab wounds and lived to identify the man who had hurt her. The girls’ testimony put away a serial killer, wanted for murdering six women. They were heroes. And they were liars. For decades, the friends have kept a secret worth killing for. But now Olivia wants to tell, and Naomi sets out to find out what really happened in the woods—no matter how dangerous the truth turns out to be. “What Lies In the Woods is a gorgeous fever dream of a novel about the dangers lurking in the hearts and imaginations of little girls. Kate Alice Marshall deftly charts a winding path through her creepy woods, doubling back and changing course to build a labyrinth of secrets and lies in which I was delighted to lose myself for hours. Hands down, it's the best thriller I've read in a long, long time.”—Chandler Baker, bestselling author of The Husbands “Shines an incisive light on the secrets of a small-town community…Great writing and boldly drawn characters bring a terrifying tale to all-too-vivid life.” —Kirkus, starred review
Discussion Questions
- What do you think is the main theme of "What Lies in the Woods"?
- How did the setting influence the story? Discuss its role almost as a character itself.
- In what ways did the protagonist change throughout the novel?
- Were there any plot twists that surprised you? Why or why not?
- How did the author use suspense to keep you engaged in the story?
- Discuss the relationships between the characters. How did they contribute to the overall narrative?
- What role does memory play in the unfolding of events in the book?
- Examine how trust is portrayed among the characters and how it affects their actions.
- What are your thoughts on the ending? Was it satisfying or did it leave you with questions?
- How does the novel address the theme of secrets and their impact on individuals over time?
Authors:
Kate Alice Marshall
ISBN: 9781234567890
Publisher: Flatiron Books
Published Date: 2023-01-17
ISBN: 9781234567890
Publisher: Flatiron Books
Published Date: 2023-01-17
Classic Wine Spritzer
A refreshing and light cocktail that is perfect to enjoy during a cozy reading session. The crispness of the white wine combined with the effervescence of club soda creates a drink that is both uplifting and pleasantly light, complementing the comfort of the Tomato Basil Soup and the engaging narrative of "What Lies in the Woods".
Ingredients
- 1 part chilled white wine (such as Sauvignon Blanc)
- 1 part chilled club soda
- Ice cubes
- Orange or lemon slice, for garnish
Instructions
- Fill a glass halfway with ice cubes.
- Pour in the chilled white wine.
- Top with chilled club soda and stir gently.
- Garnish with an orange or lemon slice, and serve immediately.