A North East man's love of a little known area of Italy has been the inspiration for three novels - and now possibly a film.
Think of Italy and what immediately springs to mind? The history of Rome? The romance of Venice? The impossible glamour of Milan? Chances are what won’t come to mind is the tiny principality of Seborga on the Italian Riviera in the region of Liguria – but that might be set to change thanks to a Northumberland man. Serborga is a stone’s throw away from the far better known principality of Monaco and while it might not be a tax haven for billionaires, it does have a charm all of its own -and even some similarities. Serborga has its very own princess, Princess Nina, who has given James Vasey’s novels her royal seal of approval, thanking him for helping to put the area in the public eye. James describes his trilogy of books as “romantic fiction” – but the romance stretches far beyond the relationship of the main characters. “The books are just as much about a love affair with the food and drink of the area, which is unique and very special,” said James, who divides his time between his homes in Northumberland and in Liguria. “It’s such an amazing place with incredible food and wine and I just wanted more people to discover it.” James isn’t alone in his passion for the area – Seborga was recently named as one of the “must see” places for intrepid travellers. The writer has just published his third book, Recipe For A Nation, following up from his first two novels, Cooking Up A Country and Unlikely Pairings. Described as “fiction for foodies” it brings together elements of history, politics, religion and love in an absorbing story with the added bonus of allowing the readers to recreate some of the area’s much loved dishes. James has worked with Ligurian cooking instructor and food writer, Enrica Monzani, who has created a number of mouthwatering recipes which reflect the cuisine of the area and feature in all of the books. From sorrel soup to mallow macaroni, from castagnaccio (chestnut pie) to turle, a stuffed pasta, the recipes are a complete delight and a real introduction to Ligurian cuisine. It’s an added bonus to a set of really absorbing books where a love story unfolds against a backdrop of truly engaging historical and geographical detail. The books have been generally well received and have also attracted the interest of a European film company, which is currently in discussions with James about a possible movie. “It’s very early days but we’re having some very exciting discussions,” he said. Recipe For A Nation, Cooking Up A Country and Unlikely Pairings can all be bought on Amazon priced at £2.99 for the e-book and £7.99p for the hard copy.
