It may be true that “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach,” but these cookbooks prove that anyone can be won over by a chef with the right recipe. If you don’t believe me, check out some of these unique, specialized recipe books—perfect for any cook.

Fresh From the Oven by Hamlyn

Description: Unique new baking recipes and fresh spins on old favorites—great for quick snacks and creative dessert dishes.
WOW Factor: Big, colorful, and beautiful photography!
You have to try: “Mini Raspberry Sandwich Cakes”- delicious bite-sized treats in less than thirty minutes.

Eat London by Peter Prescott & Terence Conran

Description: A virtual tour of every popular eatery, bakery, café, and restaurant in London—featuring recipes from the most prominent.
WOW Factor: The book cover slides off and unfolds into a reference map of London, which pinpoints the exact location of every restaurant the book features!
You have to try: “Yellowtail Sashimi with Yellow Jalapeno Dressing” by Ubon by Nobu- requires a blowtorch.

Cocktail by Hamlyn

Description: 200 of the best cocktail recipes with histories, creators, and favorites from all over the world—provides classic recipes, but includes new twists on familiar favorites.
WOW Factor: Introduction explains everything about the trade a beginner needs to know to become an instant expert (history, tools, glasses, wine and spirits, garnishing, and techniques)!
You have to try: “The Eclypse”- fruit juices and Jack Daniels over crushed ice.

Easy Party Cakes by Debbie Brown

Description: 30 original cake designs that look as though they have been taken right out of a storybook. Perfect for themed parties.
WOW Factor: Each recipe has simple instructions and step-by-step pictures so anyone can make cakes like a pro!
You have to try: “Sumo Suits”—A cake in the shape of sumo wrestlers!

Miracle Juices by Hamlyn

Description: Over 50 healthy juices, good for everything from low fertility to cellulite, from stress to insomnia, and from motion sickness to acne.
WOW Factor: Large vibrant pictures and creative titles, along with a description of what each drink aids and its health benefits.
You have to try: “‘C’ Breeze” (Good for the immune system)

The Complete Idiot’s Guide to Pizza & Panini by Erik Sherman

Description: With four parts and thirteen chapters, this cookbook provides literally everything you need to know about making pizzas and Panini, from how to make them from scratch to tons of variations on the famous Italian pies.
WOW factor: Each recipe includes tips, hints, secret ingredients, “doughfinitions,” and warning boxes!
You have to try: “Chicken Florentine Pizza”- combination of spinach, chicken, onion, and cream sauce.

GI Meals Made Easy by Dr. Barbara Wilson

Description: GI (glycaemic index) is a method of ranking carbohydrate foods in order to help those with diabetes; however, recently, GI has become a popular diet. This book contains meal plans that are as delicious as they are nutritious!
WOW factor: Each recipe is marked wither dairy-free, gluten-free, a source of fiber, heart healthy, low in fat, and vegetarian!
You have to try: “Chicken pockets with sun-dried tomatoes, red pesto and mozzarella”- gluten-free and delicious.

SOUPS by Hamlyn

Description: This ultimate soup recipe book contains over 200 of the best soups—new and classics, including international recipes. With names that only a chef can pronounce, these soups may seem like a step out of your league, but the simple instructions and healthy ingredients make the mispronunciations well worth it!
WOW factor: Each recipe includes prep and cook time, number of servings and a one word description (such as “spicy,” or “filling”), all laid out in a clear and simple fashion.
You have to try: “Harira”- an exotic Middle Eastern soup made with lamb or chicken.