Main Dishes

Tuscan Pork Roast, Classic Negroni, and The God of the Woods

November 9, 2025
editor
Pair the succulent Tuscan Pork Roast with "The God of the Woods" by Liz Moore, a rich narrative that complements the depth of flavors in your meal, and savor a perfectly balanced Negroni, whose sharp citrus and herbal notes enhance the roast's lemon zest and herbs. This pairing creates a terroir-inspired evening, encouraging culinary and literary exploration.
Tuscan Pork Roast

Ingredients

  • 3-4 pound boneless pork loin roast
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh sage, chopped
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
  • 1/2 cup dry white wine or chicken broth

Instructions

  • Prepare the Marinade: In a small bowl, combine the minced garlic, chopped rosemary, thyme, sage, lemon zest, olive oil, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir well to form a paste.
  • Marinate the Pork: Place the pork roast on a large plate or in a shallow dish. Rub the herb paste all over the pork, making sure to coat it evenly on all sides. Cover the pork and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for the best flavor.
  • Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Allow the pork to come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before roasting.
  • Roast the Pork: Place the marinated pork roast in a roasting pan. Pour the white wine or chicken broth into the bottom of the pan. Roast in the preheated oven for 1 1/2 to 2 hours, or until the internal temperature of the pork reaches 145°F (63°C). Baste the pork occasionally with the pan juices to keep it moist.
  • Rest and Serve: Once the pork is done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing. Slice the pork roast into thick slices and serve with the pan juices drizzled over the top.

The God of the Woods

The God of the Woods

In "The God of the Woods," Liz Moore weaves a mysterious tale of discovery and secrets buried deep in the heart of an ancient forest. The narrative explores themes of isolation, connection, and the mystical power of nature. Moore crafts an atmospheric world that draws the reader into its enigmatic depths.
ONE OF THE NEW YORK TIMES’S NOTABLE BOOKS OF 2024 A NEW YORK TIMES BEST THRILLER OF 2024 A NEW YORK TIMES BEST CRIME NOVEL OF 2024 PEOPLE MAGAZINE’S #1 BOOK OF THE YEAR ONE OF NPR’S “BOOKS WE LOVE” 2024 ONE OF TIME MAGAZINE’S “100 MUST-READ BOOKS OF 2024” “Extraordinary . . . Reminds me of Donna Tartt’s 1992 debut, The Secret History . . . I was so thoroughly submerged in a rich fictional world, that for hours I barely came up for air.” —Maureen Corrigan, Fresh Air, NPR “This expertly paced thriller …has the kineticism of a well-crafted miniseries.” —The New Yorker When a teenager vanishes from her Adirondack summer camp, two worlds collide Early morning, August 1975: a camp counselor discovers an empty bunk. Its occupant, Barbara Van Laar, has gone missing. Barbara isn’t just any thirteen-year-old: she’s the daughter of the family that owns the summer camp and employs most of the region’s residents. And this isn’t the first time a Van Laar child has disappeared. Barbara’s older brother similarly vanished fourteen years ago, never to be found. As a panicked search begins, a thrilling drama unfolds. Chasing down the layered secrets of the Van Laar family and the blue-collar community working in its shadow, Moore’s multi-threaded story invites readers into a rich and gripping dynasty of secrets and second chances. It is Liz Moore’s most ambitious and wide-reaching novel yet.

Discussion Questions

  • How does Liz Moore's portrayal of nature in 'The God of the Woods' enhance the overall atmosphere of the book?
  • Discuss the significance of isolation and how it affects the characters' development throughout the story.
  • What parallels can be drawn between the physical journey into the woods and the internal journeys of the characters?
  • In what ways does the forest setting serve as a character in its own right?
  • How do secrets influence trust and relationships among the characters?
  • What role does mysticism play in the narrative, and how does it contribute to the theme of discovery?
  • Examine how Moore handles the concept of fear and bravery in her characters.
  • Discuss the author's use of symbolism and metaphor in conveying deeper meanings.
  • How does the book challenge or reinforce your own perceptions of nature's power?
  • In what ways does 'The God of the Woods' offer social commentary, if any, on contemporary environmental issues?
Authors: Liz Moore
ISBN: 978-1234567890
Publisher: Random House Large Print
Published Date: 2024-07-02

Classic Negroni

Classic Negroni
The Negroni is a classic Italian cocktail that balances bitterness, sweetness, and citrus notes. Made with equal parts gin, Campari, and sweet vermouth, it pairs exquisitely with hearty dishes, enhancing their flavors with its vibrant notes.

Ingredients

  • 1 oz gin
  • 1 oz Campari
  • 1 oz sweet vermouth
  • Orange peel, for garnish

Instructions

  • Fill a glass with ice cubes.
  • Pour gin, Campari, and sweet vermouth over the ice.
  • Stir gently until well mixed and chilled.
  • Garnish with a twist of orange peel.