Around the Table: Recipes and Inspiration for Gatherings Throughout the Year    by Martina McBride Order:  USA  Can William Morrow, 2014 (2014) Hardcover, e-Book     Reviewed by Bob Walch When she's working, Martina McBride wows her audience with the songs that have made her a country music superstar but when this Country Music Association Female Vocalist of the Year is at home she likes to entertain and host gatherings for family and friends. McBride explains, 'If I weren't a performer, I think I would love to be a party planner. Every aspect of planning a gathering – coming up with the party theme, designing a unique invitation, creating a menu, and setting a scene – speaks to my creative side ... My goal is to make each person feel special from the moment they receive the invitation until they walk out the door.' In Around the Table: Recipes and Inspiration for Gatherings Throughout the Year, McBride shares some of her inventive party ideas for year around celebrations. In addition to suggesting special party themes like a holiday open house, retro Valentine's Day, Bruschetta Bash or Taco Fiesta, the singer also provides mouthwatering recipes, tips and tricks to make the preparation easier, décor suggestions, and clever ideas to keep your guests entertained. Filled with personal anecdotes and dozens of color photos of McBride and her family entertaining at home, this book is both a keepsake and also a practical guide to planning a fun filled and memorable party. Each of the book's ten chapters begins with a complete menu from cocktails to dessert, suggestions for music, a detailed Cooking Game Plan, and a complete set of recipes for the event. As you look through this beautifully designed book you'll want to highlight some of the recipes you'll want to try as stand alone dishes or meals. For example, the Confetti Rice, Cheddar Cheese Steak Panini, Latin Fusion, Avocado Hummus, Stuffed Twice-Baked Potatoes, or the Southwestern Corn Chowder all look like they would be a hit at an informal gathering. 'No matter your experience, the parties in this book can be adapted to fit your own comfort level and your style,' writes McBride. She also says, 'One thing I want to stress is that this is your party – once you decide to host it – not my party.' This simply means that you should adjust the suggestions to fit your style and comfort zone. Don't be afraid to mix and match or do your own thing! Note: Opinions expressed in reviews and articles on this site are those of the author(s) and not necessarily those of BookLoons. Find more NonFiction books on our Shelves or in our book Reviews