Paula Deen

I actually wanted to read this book because someone told me Paula Deen suffered from severe anxiety and agoraphobia and wrote all about it. I'm not agoraphobic but I get panic attacks and I was curious. She only brought it up briefly a couple times and then seemingly figured out her reasons why and cured herself.

I liked this book a little because I like the cook, not the book, and it really needed to be cut in half. She gave out odd advice on opening a restaurant. That said, she told some show more "secrets" about who she really is. She's a real person, and she's lived a real life. I saw some reviewers who really trashed on her for what she's done. Dude. Like you haven't ever made a mistake? Come on. She was brave for being so real in this book. Other than that the only good thing were the recipes. show less

The real sweetness found in "The Lady & Sons Just Desserts" lies not only in the delightful recipes, but also in the the family stories and the genuine love of cooking that prevails throughout the pages. The introduction written by Paula Deen is a fascinating mini-autobiography that follows Paula's early years through her young first marriage, the start of her restaurant business, her introduction to TV Land, and how she met Michael Groover, who would later become her second husband. Paula show more Deen's personal struggles and her desire to be a success and provide for her family will resonate with many women. The recipes range from simple sweet-tooth satisfaction to satiation for serious sugar addicts. Many of the recipes are accompanied by charming anecdotes. Do these titles sound tempting: "Brown Sugar Pound Cake"; "White Chocolate Macadamia Nut Pie"; "Paula's Loaded Oatmeal Cookies"; "Eggnog Pudding"; "Mama's Divinity"; and "Blueberry Cream Cheese Tarts"? "The Lady & Sons Just Desserts" is just peachy--Georgia peachy, that is! show less

I was surprised at this size of this book - it's *tiny*! Rather than a full-fledged cookbook, it's really just a small collection of Paula's favorite holiday recipes, tied together by some of her and her family's christmas memories. I did enjoy the book, but at $23US, the price is a bit steep for what you get.

I've always been a fan of Paula Deen's shows and her food. I've made a few of her recipes and they always came out delish! I had a chance to meet her and her family a few years ago at an autograph session at her restaurant in Savannah. This was the book she signed. I enjoyed this book and her stories of growing up with agoraphobia, being penniless and rising her way up to stardom and fame. She seems to be a very down to earth person and the book was very cute just like her. I'm excited for show more the recipes at the end of each chapter and look forward to making them in my home. show less