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Today I’m sharing this gorgeous work of literary fiction, The Vines We Planted, written by Joanell Serra.

My Thoughts:

The Vines We Planted by Joanell Serra

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

4 immersive stars to The Vines We Planted! 🍇 🍷 🍇 🍷

Set in Sonoma, California, the stunning wine country, the writing in The Vines We Planted had me firmly planted in a lush and realistic setting with its vineyards and its people. Uriel Macon’s family is responsible for a vineyard and has been for generations. He is a young widower and leads a stoic life spending his days working hard on the vines and with his horses.

Uriel had a relationship with Amanda Scanlon before he was married, and she left him and the country under mysterious circumstances. When Amanda is called back to Sonoma for family-related crisis, she is hoping to mend fences with those she hurt in the past, including Uriel.

Amanda’s family is carrying big secrets, and the truth eventually comes to the surface, which leads to some dramatic scenes. Amanda and Uriel are caretakers to their families, and their feelings for each other reignite. Will they overcome their difficult past and fall in love again?

The Vines We Planted has a picturesque setting that was brought to life, not only with its physical backdrop, but also in its descriptions of the local people. Immigration affects the families, and this is presented in a deeply heartfelt and relatable way. There is a sensitivity and authenticity to Serra’s writing I adored, and the characters are complex and lovable as a result.

Overall, The Vines We Planted is a moving story ultimately about family coming together to get through the difficult times. It is emotional, fast-paced, and gorgeously-written.

Thank you to the author for a copy of this book. All opinions are my own. The Vines We Planted is available now!

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Synopsis:

In the heart of the California wine country, secrets seem to grow on the vines that Uriel Macon’s family has tended for generations.

Uriel, the winery’s young widower, steers clear of complicated relationships. He prefers the lonely comfort of his vineyard and his horses. Until he is reminded of his love affair with Amanda Scanlon, a relationship that ended when she abruptly left the country years ago under a cloud of mystery.

When, due to a family crisis, Amanda returns to Sonoma, she tries to mend the broken relationships left behind. In addition, she seeks the truth about her parents’ complicated history and her own parentage.

But Amanda’s unveiling of the past has devastating consequences. In the midst of California’s beautiful Sonoma Valley, the Scanlon family struggles to overcome harsh realities with dignity and grace.

Both Amanda and Uriel stretch to take care of their families, who are facing immigration issues, marital crises, and illness. While navigating these challenges, the couple must decide if they trust themselves to love again, or to finally let each other go.

A Sonoma local, author Joanell Serra’s debut novel is captivating, poignant, and uplifting, demonstrating how seeds planted long ago continue to grow. Sometimes into a strangling weed, sometimes offering a bountiful harvest.

Are you a fan of family sagas, or wine, or both? 🍷 🍷 Happy Reading! ~ Jennifer THR