Old Stones and New Wine
Carolina ValdezContemporary romance
Available from Amber Quill Press
ISBN: 978-1-61124-160-0
August 2011
| Recently divorced and dealing with the death of his beloved dog, writer Alan Brynton is suffering a bad case of writer's block. With deadlines to meet and wanting to be far away from his conniving ex, he rents a house in Provence. After rescuing an injured dog, he meets sexy Frenchman Jacques Marchand. Will some of the similarities to his old life prevent him from really seeing the differences and finding a new path to love.
I really like this story. It had a fresh and inviting appeal. From the opening scene to the last chapter, I was captivated by the author's words. Ms. Valdez is a good storyteller and I've always enjoyed her books. The story is set in and around a winery in the south of France and a sheer pleasure to read. With a picturesque setting, interesting characters and well written dialogue this story is full-bodied like the wines from Jacques winery. The intimate scenes from sharing a nice bottle of wine with dinner expertly prepared by Alan to the steamy sex scenes are used to great effect. It's those type of touches that a reader appreciates. The story moves at a good pace and the conflict situations are handled realistically in regard to timing and resolution. I liked both of the main characters and thought they interacted very well together. I have a soft spot for rescued dogs and Nefertiti will warm your heart too. A delightful read.
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Reviewer: Beverly |
