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Felicity Spector's avatar

I am slightly terrified at this as I am about to have a book published. It’s not a cookbook! But I am constantly trying to play down any expectations, maybe that’s the best strategy? Also… Your books and classes have informed and educated so many people about Vietnamese food. So much for you to be really proud about!

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Uyen Luu's avatar

How exciting! And yes, always rather a lot of nerves around the release. I wish you every success. It’s also a joyful and proud time as an author. Such a dream to be published. X

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Felicity Spector's avatar

Thank you, it still seems a bit surreal. I’ve worked as a writer for 36 years, but always for other people to read out on the telly - so this is the first time I’ve done my own thing. I guess it’s never too late!

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Uyen Luu's avatar

Its NEVER too late. I’m pleased you did your own thing and excited to buy the book

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Ed Smith's avatar

Love your books and all your work Uyen.

Does feel like a treadmill, doesn’t it - albeit one that doesn’t go round forever, particularly once overtaken by newer, shinier kit x

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Uyen Luu's avatar

so much shinier new kit. I love that we have been on this treadmill along side since the days of blogging. thank you for your words, comforting x

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Willow lodge's avatar

I am so grateful to you Uyen. I once had Vietnamese food from a takeaway. It was one of the worst meals I have ever tasted. When Jamie Oliver showcased your book as the first cookbook club author, I felt obligated to give Vietnamese cooking a try, even though “I knew I didn’t like it”😂 I am so glad I did! I have realised that made correctly, it’s now one of my favourites. I wouldn’t have had that experience, if it hadn’t been for your love of cooking and creating beautiful cookbooks. I now have them all and they are in pride of place on my shelf. Thanks again. Just wish I lived nearer to enjoy your courses and supper club’s

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Uyen Luu's avatar

I didn't know that! I am so glad I converted you! And grateful for all your love and support. Hope all is well. thank you so much for reading x

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Jennifer Earle (Jen)'s avatar

I wonder if it’s just the inevitable let down of working hard for something and then it will never stay relevant to other people for as long as it does for us? Depressing but the circle of life?

I’m glad to find someone else who also didn’t really like Yellowface. It definitely has admirable qualities in the writing, but I just don’t personally enjoy stories (in films or books) where I don’t like how the main characters behave towards other people. I can’t put aside my wish for kindness and fairness in the world. 😂

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Uyen Luu's avatar

Whole heartedly agree about these unlikeable characters. The author must have been living with them for so long too! I can't imagine it. Surely you want people to root for your characters?? I am so depressed right now! Feels like everything I have worked for is bluntly coming to an end. Although new things... yay

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Sophia Real | Real Simple Food's avatar

Thank you for your honesty Uyen and I am sorry you are dealing with this. It is frustrating when publishers view platform over quality of content (something I know all too well) and when publishers also just want to chase the next best thing. I do wonder when if ever that might change and what we can all do in the meantime.

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Uyen Luu's avatar

I feel so happy to be able to have time to write what I want to write- and if my books ever land onto someone’s kitchen top then I’m grateful x

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