Two Des Moines women, Courtney Work and Jane Hemminger, an illustrator and food consultant respectively, were selected for a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to become food prop caterers for the food scenes in the Warner Brothers film, The Bridges of Madison County. Knowledgeable in the culinary habits of Iowans, Courtney and Jane chronicle their experiences in Madison County on these pages. The authors present here each of the recipes they prepared, along with Courtney's illustrations depicting intimate scenes from the film. The dishes that Francesca prepared for Robert and the "comfort foods" she made for her family are juxtaposed with menus updated for today. These appealing, innovative, kitchen-tested recipes will tempt the palate of all who seek passion in their own lives. Whether it's 1960's cuisine from a steamy Winterset, Iowa, or quicker, more healthful fare from today, you can create delectable flavors and entrancing scenes - and maybe even turn up the heat in your own kitchen.