The Winemakers – Box set: A Series of Sun-Kissed Historical Romances by Giovanna Siniscalchi
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I love the fact that all three books in this series are in a boxset as it meant I could ‘binge read’ the whole series. Each book is an enjoyable and engaging historical romance which transported me back to Portugal in the 1870’s, and to the sun drenched Douro Valley amongst the vineyards. In ‘The True Purpose of Vines’, Julia Costa is the best winemaker in Douro but has debts following her husband’s death. When Englishman Griffin Maxwell turns up threatening her vineyards the pair clash, but they must work together when the vineyards are in danger from a mysterious plague. They must decide to either allow their cultural differences to keep them apart, or fight for love.
In ‘The Taste of Light’, Aristocrat Pedro Daun is haunted by his sins, so when he meets Anne Maxwell despite their instant connection he acts badly, not wanting her soiled by his past. Following a false accusation against Pedro the couple are forced to run, whilst hiding from an enemy the couple’s passion is ignited. In ‘The Truth about Myths’, we get a rare look into Portuguese royalty’s world. Princess Isabel de Orleans travels to Spain to help with a diplomatic crisis on behalf of her brother, the King. Accompanying Isabel is Henrique, Viscount Penafiel who she sees as a charming rake. However, their mutual attraction turns to lust when she sees a different side to him. As political concerns escalate and with both Portugal’s independence and Isabel at risk Henrique takes drastic action to save his country and Isabel.
Each story is a wonderfully written and obviously well researched historical romance and I was captivated throughout each story. The beautiful settings are brought vividly to life through the descriptive narrative and along with the added historical details I felt transported back in time and place to Portugal and the vineyards. The characters are all likeable and relatable and I loved how each couple’s chemistry came across in the story and how their relationships developed. The mix of winemaking, Portuguese culture, amazing settings, exciting storylines and well defined characters, and of course romance made each novel in this boxset a real page turner. I definitely recommend ‘binge reading’ them all!

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