RECIPES FOR LIFE

Hollywood Walk of Fame actress Evans (Linda Evans Beauty and Exercise Book, 1983) tells her story through food.

She can eat like a horse and never get fat, but the Dynasty star's amazing metabolism isn't the only thing on display in this memoir punctuated with attention-grabbing anecdotes, glossy photos and delectable recipes. With a warm, friendly tone, Evans gently guides readers through the seminal moments of her life and career, spanning from the 1940s to her recent work on the British show Hell's Kitchen. Each story is followed by one or more recipes that complement its theme. In recounting her mother's battle with polio in a particularly poignant passage, Evans offers up recipes for family favorites like Mom's Hot Dog Stew. Those looking for juicy behind-the-scenes Hollywood gossip will not be disappointed. The author doesn't hold back when writing about how she made the difficult transition from lover to friend with her first husband, famed actor and director John Derek, after he left her for the then-15-year-old (and perfect "10") Bo Derek. Evans also details her relationship with Yanni and friendship with mystic channel JZ Knight, which that led to her spiritual awakening. While spare as a cookbook, among the nearly 50 recipes included are John Wayne's Crab Dip Omelet, Tony Curtis' Lemon Souffle with Raspberry Sauce and Julie Forsythe's Sesame Chicken.  A mouthwatering blend of memoir and cookbook.