To Die For, A Cookbook of Gravestone Recipes by Rosie Grant, Reviewed

 

As someone who finds joy in wandering through ancient cemeteries like the 7th-century Saint Peter’s Churchyard in Monkwearmouth, England, or the historic Myles Standish Burial Ground in Massachusetts, I’m captivated by the stories etched on headstones. So when I discovered To Die For, A Cookbook of Gravestone Recipes by Rosie Grant, a book that weaves my love for cemeteries with tales of food and family, I couldn’t wait to dive in. Its release on my birthday made it feel like a gift meant just for me. 

Grant, known for her @GhostlyArchive, has thoughtfully collected 40 recipes inscribed on gravestones worldwide, from Spritz Cookies to Guava Cobbler. Each recipe is paired with heartfelt family interviews and stunning photos of the dishes, graves, and cherished keepsakes. These recipes hit close to home, reminding me of my own “Top Secret” potato leek soup I plan to pass to my sons. The stories reveal how dishes like a grandmother’s Chicken Soup or a mother’s French Silk Pie become lasting bonds, connecting families even after loss. 

 

Grant’s careful approach transforms this unique concept into a universal celebration of love, memory, and legacy. Every page is rich with emotion—I found myself laughing one moment and tearing up the next as families shared what these recipes meant to them. The book’s gorgeous design, with vivid photography, makes it a keepsake you’ll treasure. A thoughtful glossary introduced me to the term “taphophile,” describing my passion for the history, art, and culture of cemeteries—a delightful discovery. 

 I was especially charmed by Grant’s inclusion of curated menu sections, pairing gravestone recipes into thoughtful combinations like “Comfort Food Classics,” “Sunday Brunch Spread,” and “Backyard Barbecue Favorites.” These menus inspire readers to bring these dishes to life together, adding a practical and creative touch. 

 Reading To Die For left me eager to try these recipes myself—if they’re special enough to be carved on a gravestone, they’re worth cooking. This book is a must-read for anyone who loves food with a story or cherishes family traditions. It’s a beautiful reminder that food can keep love alive long after someone’s gone. I’m already inspired to honor my own family’s recipes, and I wholeheartedly recommend this gem to food lovers, history buffs, or anyone who values the legacy of family.

 

Rating: 5/5 stars
A treasure for fans of culinary memoirs, family histories, or unique takes on memory and tradition.

Preorder your copy here.

Disclaimer: I received an advanced digital copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.

 As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.