Dearest Reader,

What an utterly yummy experience it was writing this book for you—because of you I got to sample an abundance of sweet treats and call it work!

My first experience of The Wonder of Cake was eagerly waiting for my mum to let me lick the mixture from the bowl as a kiddywink, so it seemed appropriate that I set out on the research trip with her. The only snag is that she really doesn’t have a sweet tooth, so as I would be marveling at all the exquisite fondant-swirled delights on offer, she would be ordering a bowl of carrot soup. (Though I have to say, she did succumb to the Boston Cream Pie!)

Of course, there’s more to The Traveling Tea Shop than cake! With four leading ladies, there is an abundance of emotions to explore, as well as the idyllic setting of New England. I knew it would be leafy and picturesque but I was amazed how different each state was, though it was the littlest—Rhode Island—that captured my heart. That said, I look forward to hearing where you would most like to have afternoon tea!

In the meantime, cozy up with a cuppa and a cupcake—you are welcome to leave little smudges of frosting on the pages as you turn them!

Your author,

Belinda xx