I purchased this book based on reviews on other book sites and WOW! what a total disappointment this cookbook has turned out to be! The Escarole & Cannellini Bean soup sounded wonderful..however, it's flavorless (why is the author so afraid of seasonings?). The Black Bean Soup...yech! It was watery because of the water base (why not use vegetable broth?) and it was bland! Bland! Bland! No substance, not the hearty black bean soup I was expecting at all. Fortunately, I know my way around the kitchen and was able to rescue my soups with fresh herbs, seasonings and by adding a couple cans of beans, more veg & seasonings to the Black Bean Soup to rescue it from drowing in its watery grave. If I could return this book without facing a restocking fee & shipping charges I'd drop it in the mail today. If you prefer flavor, seek out other books such as Vegan With A Vengence! You won't be disappointed!