Dinner with Edward

A charming, tender and life-affirming memoir of a middle-aged woman's unlikely bond with a 93-year-old widower. 

With its delicious food, warm jazz, and stunning views of Manhattan, Edward's home was a much-needed refuge for reporter Isabel Vincent. Her recently widowed ninety-something neighbour would prepare weekly meals for her, dinners Isabel would never cook for herself - fresh oysters, juicy steak, sugar-dusted apple galette. But over long, dark evenings where they both grieved for their very different lost marriages, Isabel realised she was being offered a gift greater than crisp martinis and perfect lamb chops. 

As they progressed from meals à deux to full dinner parties with an eclectic New York crowd, she saw that Edward was showing her how to rediscover the joy of life. For even a shared bowl of chowder could transform loneliness and anxiety into friendship, freedom, and a pure, simple pleasure Isabel had not known she could find again.

'Dinner With Edward made me smile, laugh out loud and, also, cry. In this cynical world it is life enhancing and will remain with the reader for a very long time' - David Suchet

'Glorious... the most life-enhancing book I have read in years ... tender and highly original... Edward has given me a perfect role model for enjoying old age' - William Hartston, Daily Express

'Who wouldn't swoon? The story of their attachment unfolds like a genial dinner party... The food goes deep and the host sets a buoyant tone' -- The New York Times

'A touching, uplifting work, brimming with food, fondness and perfect martinis' - Saga

'It is easy to fall deeply for Edward's tender heart as Vincent learns how he has savoured his life, and over time, begins to create a life that's more inviting and full for herself. Readers will finish the book satisfied, yet wanting more' - Publisher's Weekly

'There is much to find endearing in Vincent's memoir: Edward delivers life lessons with the same apparent ease as he cooks delicious French recipes' - Observer