Maddalena Caruso lives with her husband and son in Asolo, in the province of Treviso, north-west of Venice, where she has spent much of her life. She studied for a diploma at the prestigious Glion Institute of Higher Education in Switzerland and has also lived in Paris. Maddalena credits the fact that she never saw either her mother or grandmother anywhere near an oven with her inspiration to explore her passion for cooking. She believes the language of food is the most immediate and direct way with which to spread happiness and joy, and the language through which she would prefer people to know her. Maddalena also writes a blog that includes numerous marvellous recipes (www.maddalenacaruso.com) and has featured in Italian publications including Case & Country, L'espresso, Elle a table and Monsieur. Stefano Scata is an internationally acclaimed food and interiors photographer who has won many honours for his work, including the ADUTEI (Association of Official Representatives of Tourism in Italy) prize for best photographer. Producing stunning food photography in locations all around the world, he and Maddalena have built up a unique creative partnership over the years.