The dual perspectives of Samantha in the present and Vivian in the 1940s illuminates the parallel paths of their work and the genesis of Samantha’s love of wine. While clearly charting the course of the changes in a woman’s life, the novel also explores the art of winemaking with considerable care and effort, at times at the expense of narrative momentum. Still, the world of wine that’s so exactingly described is Samantha’s crucible; while some of her choices can seem immature, she matures over the novel’s course like a grape on a vine. Even non-oenophiles will find themselves immersed in the vibrant depictions of wine tastings and history, thirsting for what comes next.
As every type of wine is not to every person’s taste, not every line of prose works for all readers. Samantha’s voice seems less certain than Vivian’s, with some dialog verging on awkward. That’s rooted in character, though, and the novel will leave readers craving answers to certain questions and anxiously awaiting the next sip.
Takeaway: A love letter to all things wine, charting the growth of a woman following her passion.
Great for fans of: Ann Mah’s The Lost Vintage, Susan Mallery’s The Vineyard at Painted Moon.
Production grades
Cover: A
Design and typography: A
Illustrations: N/A
Editing: B+
Marketing copy: A
“A highly enjoyable tale of love, wine, and passion with juicy deft plotting.Readers will receive an enjoyable education on winemaking as Sam learns and works. Indeed, the emphasis on Sam’s dreams give the book an admirably feminist bent.”
