Okay, I REALLY REALLY tried to listen to Frances Mayes read her book and I just couldn't take it. Why on earth does her publisher let her read her books? Such beautiful words out of one of the worst reading voices imaginable. All the delights of Tuscany turn flat and sour with her nasal accent and her monotonous reading style. I can just not picture Italy when she speaks. And when she says Bramasole I can feel my fillings ache. I had the same problem with her first book, FORTUNATELY I was able to find a library version by a professional reader and really enjoyed it. I might read this book later -- once I detox and get her voice out of my head.