Patricia's Provence

It's been almost twenty years since food authority Patricia Wells first discovered her "rewarding little farmhouse" in northern Provence, which now serves as her part­time residence. Wells acknowledges the upcoming anniversary in her newest publi­cation, The Provence Cookbook (HarperCollins; $29.95), which features 175 recipes as well as affectionate portraits of the people, markets and products that define the rich culinary traditions in this part of the world.

Quintessential Wells - comprehensive, well researched and charming - the book covers everything from how to master a tarte Tatin to which market sells the best asparagus.

With its many foodie anecdotes about truffle hunts, ancient olive groves and sweet wines, it's an unabashed love letter to Provence's delicious bounty.

As Wells writes in her introduction: "I cannot imagine a patch of land that could offer more happiness."