One thread ties the books below together: in some way, each involves the production and/or distribution of alcohol. Some legal, some illegal. A few are Prohibition-era stories. A couple precede Prohibition. One is a contemporary story. There’s wine, hard cider, whiskey, and all manner of spirits. Of course there’s more to the stories than all that, including intrigue, romance, and even humor.
The Rum Runner by Christine MarciniakAn enjoyable against-the-odds romance between a rum-running, emotionally damaged WWI vet (Hank) and a young female police officer whose father was killed in the line of duty (Alice). A romance between their younger siblings keeps their paths crossing despite Hank’s reluctance and the obstacles in their path – mainly that he’s breaking the laws she’s sworn to uphold.
The characters were likable, the New Jersey scallop-fishing industry interesting, and the hunt for the bad guys enough to keep me invested.
The Memory of You by Catherine WestThe Memory of You is an emotional powerhouse with grief, guilt, and heartache all around. Despite being heart-wrenching in parts, it remains hopeful, not maudlin. The romance between Tanner and Natalie helps that hope remain alive.
As characters go, these two are some of the most real I’ve read. Their interactions fully cemented them in my imagination as real, wounded, 3-dimensional people who also have a soft spot for one another from their teenage years. And that’s where a nice bit of chemistry comes in.
There’s a lot going on throughout the story: damaged family dynamics and secrets on both sides, injury, custody, a failing family vineyard/winery business, mental illness, broken hearts, wounded faith, and more. A lot. And while I love a happily ever after, I think having just one of those elements not wrapping up so neatly would’ve lent some realism to the resolution.
Even so, The Memory of You was, well, memorable. Well done.
Sons of Blackbird Mountain by Joanne BischofThe Norgaard brothers, Jargon, Thor, and Haakon, will linger in my imagination for a long, long time. And not only because they are “braw,” fierce protectors, and (for the most part) honorable gentleman. Joanne Bischof’s characterizations are extremely well done – so much so that I could be convinced the brothers were actual historical figures. I can easily imagine Thor stomping through the farm house; Haakon jumping into the pond or climbing the rafters, armed with a rifle; or Jargon steadfastly standing by each.
I recognize the challenge Thor’s character brought to the author, as he is deaf and mute. Certainly a writer’s challenge!
The rural Virginia orchard setting also took up residence in my imagination as I experienced its workings through Aven’s eyes and Thor’s other senses. The setting is its own secondary character, as well rounded as the human characters that live and work in and around the farm.
A beautifully written story that merits a re-read. Spirits for Sale in November's Relevant Fiction Reviews. Share on X
Above the Fold by Rachel Scott McDanielI was excited to read a historical novel set in my hometown of Pittsburgh. It was such fun seeing so many places I recognized (and one I’d never heard of) represented in this Prohibition-era romance.
The newsroom setting kept the story moving at a good pace, and the mystery of an unsolved murder lent suspense to the romance. Elissa and Cole have a sweet, shared past, but Cole’s return to Pittsburgh after a stint as a big-city reporter opens old wounds from his ill-timed departure.
Cole has a past he’s not proud of, but he loves Elissa all the same and works hard to win back her affection despite her unhealed hurts (inflicted by himself and thoughtless others).
I’ll look for more by this author.
Entanglements by Rachel McMillanEntanglements is an enjoyable Prohibition-era romance set in Boston. With good chemistry between the hero and heroine of different social classes who bond over music and chess, it was a short, pleasant escape.
I enjoyed the presence of a minor character who was a Catholic priest, since I don’t often see Catholics represented in Christian fiction.
A lovely sweet romance (with lots of romance and kisses) between interesting, intelligent, and honorable characters.
It could use another pass by a proofreader, but even so, I still quite enjoyed it!
The Whiskey Rebels by David LissThis novel wasn’t what I expected. Having grown up in western Pa, very near to where the Whiskey Rebellion took place, this title appealed to me. What I got was an entirely different story taking place well before the rebellion.
That said, I loved this book! Never have I laughed out loud so frequently while reading a book – and I average a hundred books a year these days. Ethan Saunders is simply one of the best characters I’ve met in a book!
Despite its substantial cast, I was able to keep The Whiskey Rebels cast straight due in part to the excellent narration in the audiobook.
I thoroughly enjoyed this story of patriots, scoundrels, greedy traders, and frontiersman – some fictional, some historic. Though the financial schemes had the potential to lose me, I hung tight through the satisfying ending.
There are some instances of brutality but nothing gory and several uses of strong language early in the book, which didn’t hinder my enjoyment. I’m looking forward to reading more by this author!
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