Intriguing and practical, this book gives the best of both worlds when it comes to the colourful world of tea! From tea for gossips, to romantic get-togethers, and even teas for formality; Claire Hopley delves into the role of tea and tea-time in classic literature such as Elizabeth Gaskell’s Cranford, and the novels of Jane Austen and D.H. Lawrence. From the initial discoveries of tea in China; traditions of tea-drinking across the globe, and the subsequent tea-trading of the East India Company, The History of Tea also encompasses 35 delicious recipes (to accompany a freshly brewed cup!) handpicked from the stories of some of the most favoured books. Curl up on the sofa with one of Mary Poppins’ raspberry jam cakes – not forgetting your tea, of course – and enjoy this truly civilized read.

EJH

Claire Hopley gives a concise history: its origins, legends and types of tea interspersed with enticing glimpses of tea's multi-faceted social history: tea gowns; tango teas and children's teas to name a few. But what I most like about this fascinating book is that the story of tea drinking in Britain is told with a different and refreshing slant - through literature. Another plus is the excellent selection of tea-time recipes based on scenes in some of our best-loved books. The book is attractively priced and there is a rewarding section at the end listing favourite tea rooms around Britain.

Helen Saberi, Petits Propos Culinaires 89

Hopley has written a fun and light-hearted book, weaving together history with recipes for such delights as rum-raisin batter cake and posh tea sandwiches. This is a treasury for tea fans, containing everything you might want to know about tea. Best of all, it is very readable - with good-sized type and an easy-on-the-eyes layout.

British Heritage Magazine

It shows readers how tea has gone from being a romantic catalyst for characters in Jane Austen novels to serving a more sophisticated purpose in afternoon teas alongside homemade scones.

The Chester Chronicle

The English have adopted tea as a national drink and it played a part in raising morale in time of war. This easily read account of the vicissitudes of tea will appeal widely. There is particularly full and helpful index, a select bibliography, a glossary and a list of tearooms for good measure and illustrations.

The Historical Association