San Francisco, Tuscany, Paris and Wine - who could ask for more?

The Winemakers by Jan Moran is a story of winemakers for sure but it is also a love story that spans generations. It starts in the Napa Valley in a vineyard that began with cherished vines that traveled from France to Italy and then to America. The characters have a depth to them that shows a dedication of the author to tell their stories. Each of the characters have had many challenges in their lives and continue to do so throughout the book. There is beauty, love, frustrations between parent and child, and most of all the warmth of Tuscany depicted in a very realistic manner. Since we had the privilege of visiting there, the words on the pages brought it all back to life for me -- the food, the wine, and the relaxed lifestyle of the Italians but also the fierce loyalty to family that they possess.

Since the book is set in the mid 1950's, you have to remember that life was much different then. Relationships between men and women were more restrained and the strong Catholic faith exhibited by the families caused them to order their lives in a way that would not be an issue now in our world where everything goes and is to be accepted. It was a charming but trying time for those who lived. Having to remember that there was no advanced technology to make their lives "easier" was important while reading!

There are secrets hidden throughout the book and are meant to protect others from harm in many ways. These secrets come back to haunt them and there are dangerous situations that arise as a result. All of these elements make this book a journey not to be missed. You will find yourself, like I did, that things work out for Ava, Rafael, Caterina and Santo. I would definitely read it a second time just to be able to visit with the characters again and to spend more time with them! Pour yourself a nice glass of Italian wine and start reading!

Thank you Net Galley and Jan Moran for providing this book to read!