Crush: A Tale of Two Vineyards

Olivia is about to graduate with a master’s degree from the University of California, Davis. The only thing left to do is work as an intern at a biodynamic vineyard, preferably one nearby. When she meets Luke Laroche, a visiting French vintner, he invites her to come to France for an internship at his family’s estate. But Luke has more on his mind than just wine. Olivia seems to be the woman of his dreams. Olivia is not immune to his charms, but she has plans to turn her grandmother’s farm into a certified biodynamic operation. How can she fall for a man whose life and work are half a world away? Will they find a way to make it work?

I loved this story! Crush is filled with magnificent scenery, which transported me to another world. Who wouldn’t want to read about California wine country and the south of France? In terms of picturesque scenery, you can’t beat that. Crush also had perfect elements of tension built into the storyline. I’m thinking firstly of the relationship between Olivia and her mother, who doesn’t understand why her daughter wants to waste her time at the family farm. Olivia, while following her passion for making the best wine she can, simply wants her mother to be proud of her accomplishments. Then there is the issue of the returning neighbor, who Olivia disliked as a teenager. Luckily, the neighbor’s daughter Hailey is cut from a different cloth. Of course, the most significant source of tension comes from the big question about whether or not Olivia and Luke will be able to work out a plan to be together. The many storylines flowing at one time makes this book such a joy to read. Every chapter had something interesting to relate.

I thoroughly enjoyed the fact that this well-written story was full of friends and family working together to create something each was passionate about. Each character had a story that made him or her interesting. The author did an excellent job capturing the different relationships between all the characters. I loved the fact that Olivia was a strong female who knew what she wanted and had the intelligence and drive to pursue her goals, but she was flexible enough to incorporate the unknown into her life when it felt right. While reading this, I couldn’t help but think how marvelous it would be if this story were made into one of those films that showcase, love, wine, friends, and cultural adventures. Hopefully there will be a sequel that will further explore these intriguing and memorable characters. If there is a Crush sequel, I’m keeping my fingers crossed that I’ll be able to read that one too.