The Art of Baking Blind

Book excerpt: From the author of NETFLIX SENSATION ANATOMY OF A SCANDAL There are many reasons to bake: to feed; to impress; and, sometimes, it has to be said, to perfect. In 1966, Kathleen Eaden published The Art of Baking, her guide to nurturing a family by creating the most exquisite pastries. Now, five amateur bakers are competing to become the New Mrs Eaden. There's Jenny, facing an empty nest; Claire, who has sacrificed her dreams; Mike, trying to parent after his wife's death; Vicki, who has dropped everything to be with her baby boy; and perfect Karen, who knows what it's like to have nothing and is determined her façade shouldn't slip. As unlikely alliances are forged, making the choicest choux bun seems the least of the contestants' problems. For they will learn - as Mrs Eaden did before them - that while perfection is possible in the kitchen, it's very much harder in life. 'Delicious . . . Friendship, rivalry and exposed secrets, all gorgeously told' - Elle 'Clever and compelling. I loved this' Nina Stibbe