Plunkett Kay

Martini is made with gin. A Vodka Martini is made with vodka. Apple Martinis are an abomination. That is all.' - Kay Plunkett-Hogge From just a few friends for drinks and snacks in the kitchen to a sophisticated soiree for everyone you know, Kay Plunkett-Hogge draws upon her background in the worlds of film and fashion and her youth in Mad Men-era Bangkok to create the ultimate guide to making your evening as easy as ABC. Kay's approach to throwing a party is to keep it simple (yet stylish), plan ahead and, above all, enjoy it. The 80 cocktail recipes are organised by base spirit, with chapters on Gin, Vodka, Rum etc, and the 40 canape recipes are grouped into Vegetarian, Fish & Seafood and Meat. As Kay writes in the book's introduction: 'Just the sound of ice being shaken, preferably to a rhythm all of its own, is enough to bring a smile to anyone's face. It's the promise of sweet relief, of good times, good friends and good conversation. Just make mine a Martini.

Meet the chilli. It's a fiery little fruit. From humble origins in a tucked-away corner of Latin America, it has found its way into the food of more than half the world. Intrepid food writer Kay Plunkett-Hogge is on its trail, following the chilli from the Americas to Europe, and along the spice routes to the Middle East, India, China and beyond. With more than 120 delicious recipes from around the world, including Thai, Indian and Mexican favourites, plus tantalising desserts with a difference, Kay showcases the chilli's extraordinary versatility, celebrates its rich and nomadic history, and discovers the secrets of its success.