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The Crush
Aldo Bagnolesi finally has what he's long wanted. Control of the family winery in Tuscany. The only little detail is that someone has to manage the place for a few years. He's far too involved in his company to leave on such short notice, but his daughter…
Despite her worries, Nicola agrees to step up to the plate, even though her interest in Italy and wine is sorely lacking. Her father will relieve her in two years. How bad could two years in one the prettiest places on earth be?
The transition is tough and she's achingly lonely. Nic knows nothing about running a winery and can't talk to the workers or the wine maker. She's desperate for connection; for any semblance of her former busy social life. The closest gay bar is in Florence. She heads out—determined to at least talk to someone she has one thing in common with. To her delight, she finds not just a willing lesbian, but a sexy one—who seems equally interested in her.
It's crazy to put so much importance on a chance meeting. But sometimes, you have to throw your doubts to the winds and see what the universe has in store for you.
Despite her worries, Nicola agrees to step up to the plate, even though her interest in Italy and wine is sorely lacking. Her father will relieve her in two years. How bad could two years in one the prettiest places on earth be?
The transition is tough and she's achingly lonely. Nic knows nothing about running a winery and can't talk to the workers or the wine maker. She's desperate for connection; for any semblance of her former busy social life. The closest gay bar is in Florence. She heads out—determined to at least talk to someone she has one thing in common with. To her delight, she finds not just a willing lesbian, but a sexy one—who seems equally interested in her.
It's crazy to put so much importance on a chance meeting. But sometimes, you have to throw your doubts to the winds and see what the universe has in store for you.
334 pages, Paperback
First published May 24, 2013
12 people are currently reading
378 people want to read
About the author
Susan X. Meagher
59 books370 followersSusan X Meagher was born in southern Illinois and grew up in East St Louis. She attended college in Chicago and started her working career there. She and her partner moved to the Los Angeles area in the late 80's. It was there that she started to write. Her first few books were simply posted on the web and became the I Found My Heart in San Francisco series. In 2002 she moved to New York and divides her time between Manhattan and the Jersey Shore. She has published thirteen books in the series and has gone on to write many individual books as well. She has partnered with other authors on two short story books and has written many stories that have been published in other mainstream anthologies. Susan is active in the lesbian author community and loves to attend Women's week at Provincetown and the GCLS annual conventions. Her stories revolve around the relationships that two women can build when given a chance and how those relationships can strengthen the individual and the partnership. Her genre is lesbian romance/fiction and she believes strongly in the happy ending that we all so deserve. Susan X Meagher was awarded a 2011 Lesbian Fiction Readers’ Choice Award for Favorite Lesbian Fiction Writer. She is the recipient of the 2014 Alice B. Medal for her body of work.
From the author's website: I live in New York with my spouse, Carrie. We've lived in Chicago and Los Angeles for significant periods, but New York fits us very well. I love to discuss my work and fiction in general. My goal in writing is to explore feelings. I want to entertain, but I also want to make people think. I've heard that life is all about finding out who we are. To me, life if about finding out who other people are. I'm interested in the small details of life, that's how a story about two young women in college is slowly becoming a 26 book series. The joke in Seinfield was that it was about nothing. I feel the same about most of my books. They are about the many things that happen when nothing is happening. The small joys and sorrows of everyday life can be fascinating, especially if you care about the people involved. I try to create characters that will make a reader care deeply. I'm always interested in hearing how close I am to that goal. So please drop me a line whenever you have a comment or a question about a story. Writing is a pretty solitary pursuit and it's great to know that I'm not alone.
From the author's website: I live in New York with my spouse, Carrie. We've lived in Chicago and Los Angeles for significant periods, but New York fits us very well. I love to discuss my work and fiction in general. My goal in writing is to explore feelings. I want to entertain, but I also want to make people think. I've heard that life is all about finding out who we are. To me, life if about finding out who other people are. I'm interested in the small details of life, that's how a story about two young women in college is slowly becoming a 26 book series. The joke in Seinfield was that it was about nothing. I feel the same about most of my books. They are about the many things that happen when nothing is happening. The small joys and sorrows of everyday life can be fascinating, especially if you care about the people involved. I try to create characters that will make a reader care deeply. I'm always interested in hearing how close I am to that goal. So please drop me a line whenever you have a comment or a question about a story. Writing is a pretty solitary pursuit and it's great to know that I'm not alone.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews
May 25, 2019
Aaaand still amazing on my third read. One of my all time favorites for sure.
***
Just as great on my second read.
***
Absolutely loved it! The setting is great, the characters interesting, the wine making engaging. And it's always a joy to read a book by a masterful writer, the language flowed just as fine as a good wine.
***
Just as great on my second read.
***
Absolutely loved it! The setting is great, the characters interesting, the wine making engaging. And it's always a joy to read a book by a masterful writer, the language flowed just as fine as a good wine.
March 16, 2016
The Crush by Susan X. Meagher made me want to drink wine. Oh no not it a bad way, in a very good way. This book is long in length but it is also chock full of depth and detail.
Nicola Bagnolesi is an advertising sales executive for her father’s advertising firm in Chicago. She is happy with her life. What more could she ask for her life revolves around partying with clients, make sales and hanging out with her girlfriend if she feels up to it. All of this changes when her father tells her she is being relocated to Italy. Aldo Bagnolesi has just inherited his family’s birthright, a winery in Tuscany. The catch is Aldo is not ready to retire just yet. He needs Nicola to be its caretaker until he can hand the company over to her brother Lorenzo.
Nicola has zero desire to babysit a winery for two years. She is very gently told that this is what her family needs her to do. This is her father’s dream and she needs to get on board. She reluctantly agrees, leaving the only place she has ever lived, breaks up with her girlfriend and boards a plane one way to Italy.
Pretty early on she figures out that this is a disaster all around. She is unprepared for this journey, and the family estate is in shambles. Cue despair!
Nicola has a chance encounter with a beautiful Italian woman name Chiara Bellini in a bar while visiting her aunt’s city of Florence. These two hit it off immediately and well things heat up to boiling pretty rapidly. The sexy time is hot, hot, hot!
A romance evolves from a one night stand, but don’t worry the push and pull of an established relationship does evolve. Our two leading ladies must work to prove that the can work together as well as be a couple. Add to the drama is Aldo is a giant a-hole and treats his daughter terribly while she works to launch his dream.
The setting and scenic descriptions are stunning. I found it very easy to visualize where Nicola was and what she was experiencing. While I loved the setting, and the descriptions of wine making, I think my favorite thing about this book is the evolution of Nicola. She was a high flying party girl in Chicago, a little spoiled and a whole lot of coddled. She became strong, determined woman, who fought for what she believed in and backed it up with hard work and sheer determination. That transformation was stunning! She went toe to toe with her father, aunt and anyone that got in her way, all the while being tender and sweet to Chiara. Got to love that!
Really lovely book, that is lengthy and well researched. You will not be disappointed if you don’t mind investing in the book (about twice the length of your average romance). You will have a lot to work with, but it is all worth it in the end.
Nicola Bagnolesi is an advertising sales executive for her father’s advertising firm in Chicago. She is happy with her life. What more could she ask for her life revolves around partying with clients, make sales and hanging out with her girlfriend if she feels up to it. All of this changes when her father tells her she is being relocated to Italy. Aldo Bagnolesi has just inherited his family’s birthright, a winery in Tuscany. The catch is Aldo is not ready to retire just yet. He needs Nicola to be its caretaker until he can hand the company over to her brother Lorenzo.
Nicola has zero desire to babysit a winery for two years. She is very gently told that this is what her family needs her to do. This is her father’s dream and she needs to get on board. She reluctantly agrees, leaving the only place she has ever lived, breaks up with her girlfriend and boards a plane one way to Italy.
Pretty early on she figures out that this is a disaster all around. She is unprepared for this journey, and the family estate is in shambles. Cue despair!
Nicola has a chance encounter with a beautiful Italian woman name Chiara Bellini in a bar while visiting her aunt’s city of Florence. These two hit it off immediately and well things heat up to boiling pretty rapidly. The sexy time is hot, hot, hot!
A romance evolves from a one night stand, but don’t worry the push and pull of an established relationship does evolve. Our two leading ladies must work to prove that the can work together as well as be a couple. Add to the drama is Aldo is a giant a-hole and treats his daughter terribly while she works to launch his dream.
The setting and scenic descriptions are stunning. I found it very easy to visualize where Nicola was and what she was experiencing. While I loved the setting, and the descriptions of wine making, I think my favorite thing about this book is the evolution of Nicola. She was a high flying party girl in Chicago, a little spoiled and a whole lot of coddled. She became strong, determined woman, who fought for what she believed in and backed it up with hard work and sheer determination. That transformation was stunning! She went toe to toe with her father, aunt and anyone that got in her way, all the while being tender and sweet to Chiara. Got to love that!
Really lovely book, that is lengthy and well researched. You will not be disappointed if you don’t mind investing in the book (about twice the length of your average romance). You will have a lot to work with, but it is all worth it in the end.
November 14, 2019
The one thing that I regretted not doing after I’ve completed Crush (after reading it in one sitting) is that I should have read it way way earlier! You get to read the beautifully described culture in Siena. If only I knew, I would have read it before my vacation in Italy! Then perhaps I would have plan my vacation differently instead of simply visiting mainly touristy spots...
Anyway, back to the book which was very detailed and lengthy. We met Nicola, suave, sweet talking advertising executive who pitched and closed deals in her father’s advertising company. A people person who entertained/dined a lot with clients and was often brushed off as easy-going and lackadaisical, especially by her father, Aldo. Off to Italy she went to be the caretaker of the family’s vineyard for 2 years, before handing it over to her father where he planned to retire. Given her personality, she had problems settling-in, in a remote place where she can’t speak the language. Chiara Bellini....Sigh, what can I say! Really loved her character and personality; strong, loyal, unassuming, alluring ☺️. Nicola and Chiara met in a gay bar, had one hell of a sexy night which was really HOT. From then on, story became more interesting and we got to see/read how Nicola’s character evolved from someone who just couldn’t care less to a determined lady who found passion in upholding what she believed in and running a business with a supportive Chiara by her side. Nicola faced lots of issues running the vineyard and faced them head on; from sabotage to zero support from royal-pain-in-the-ass Aldo (whom I felt like smacking on the head often).
An enjoyable read one which I plan to read again. Be warned though, it’s lengthy.
4.5 🌟
Anyway, back to the book which was very detailed and lengthy. We met Nicola, suave, sweet talking advertising executive who pitched and closed deals in her father’s advertising company. A people person who entertained/dined a lot with clients and was often brushed off as easy-going and lackadaisical, especially by her father, Aldo. Off to Italy she went to be the caretaker of the family’s vineyard for 2 years, before handing it over to her father where he planned to retire. Given her personality, she had problems settling-in, in a remote place where she can’t speak the language. Chiara Bellini....Sigh, what can I say! Really loved her character and personality; strong, loyal, unassuming, alluring ☺️. Nicola and Chiara met in a gay bar, had one hell of a sexy night which was really HOT. From then on, story became more interesting and we got to see/read how Nicola’s character evolved from someone who just couldn’t care less to a determined lady who found passion in upholding what she believed in and running a business with a supportive Chiara by her side. Nicola faced lots of issues running the vineyard and faced them head on; from sabotage to zero support from royal-pain-in-the-ass Aldo (whom I felt like smacking on the head often).
An enjoyable read one which I plan to read again. Be warned though, it’s lengthy.
4.5 🌟
October 27, 2019
This book started off quite strong, with MC Nicola, an American, agreeing to take over an old family vineyard in Italy at her father's insistence. Her story was actually fairly interesting, a spoiled party girl from Chicago who is ripped from everything comfortable and known in order to help her family, eventually discovering herself, her roots and genuine direction in life and passion. Her connection with MC Chiara was initially a very hot one-night stand, but I found their romance fizzed between oh, 30% - 85% or so. Many fade to black scenes that just felt kind of lazy, considering just how much was dedicated to the insane amount of detail about wine, Siena culture, Palio. And I am a girl who really really loves her wine, but I felt much of this could have been edited out to be a stronger more effective story.
While I did like Chiara alright, I did not fully believe in the romance between the them. There were so many overly cheeseball moments between the two. It took them so....much....time to re-hook up after their initial one night stand and by that point, I was a bit bored, both with them and the story. I stuck through it and finished, though it really did feel like a never-ending story.
I just have to point out what a full-on dickball Nicola's father was from start to finish. He was an awful, selfish, insulting human being who came across as completely heartless, and the amount of times Nic forgave him was mind boggling. I seriously wanted his wife to divorce him, his daughter to disown him, his company to fail, a tour bus to run over him and his dog to shit in his ear. Please tell me this kind of father is not usual in Italian culture.
All in all, I give it about a 2.75/5. Had at least 100 pages been edited, it may have been stronger, as there was much content that did not drive the story, but rather bogged it down.
While I did like Chiara alright, I did not fully believe in the romance between the them. There were so many overly cheeseball moments between the two. It took them so....much....time to re-hook up after their initial one night stand and by that point, I was a bit bored, both with them and the story. I stuck through it and finished, though it really did feel like a never-ending story.
I just have to point out what a full-on dickball Nicola's father was from start to finish. He was an awful, selfish, insulting human being who came across as completely heartless, and the amount of times Nic forgave him was mind boggling. I seriously wanted his wife to divorce him, his daughter to disown him, his company to fail, a tour bus to run over him and his dog to shit in his ear. Please tell me this kind of father is not usual in Italian culture.
All in all, I give it about a 2.75/5. Had at least 100 pages been edited, it may have been stronger, as there was much content that did not drive the story, but rather bogged it down.
August 6, 2016
Being a lover of wine and vineyards, the cover and blurb to this story drew me in, not to mention all the outstanding reviews. The beautiful writing, the vivid descriptions and information on Italy and its history are most definitely worthy of high ratings.
I felt for Nicola and her situation, and rooted for her making the best of less than favorable circumstances. The romance between Nicola and her love interest (what’s her name?) is a slow burn, which I can’t say I cared about one way or the other.
I really dislike saying negative things about well-written books. There is nothing terrible about this story. As aforementioned the writing is impeccable, the issue I had, and it’s my issue, is I was so very, very bored. Twice, I set the story aside and read something else before I could carry on. Something I don’t recall doing in a long time.
There’re some bits and pieces on the operation of the vineyard, but for the most part things are taken care of by staff. A few of them caused problems, which upped the pace for a short time. Other than that, Nicola spent a great deal of her time lazing around in the swimming pool.
I read on in the hopes that the ending would be satisfying. For me, the best part about the end was the horse crapping in the church and people swooning because of it. The tradition/belief made me chuckle, especially when they started tossing coins in the pooh. Before that I didn’t feel much of anything. And I need the ‘feels’ to become invested in a story.
If you enjoy stories rich in detail and languid in pace, you’re bound to get a lot more out of ‘The Crush’ than I did.
Copy provided in exchange for an honest review
I felt for Nicola and her situation, and rooted for her making the best of less than favorable circumstances. The romance between Nicola and her love interest (what’s her name?) is a slow burn, which I can’t say I cared about one way or the other.
I really dislike saying negative things about well-written books. There is nothing terrible about this story. As aforementioned the writing is impeccable, the issue I had, and it’s my issue, is I was so very, very bored. Twice, I set the story aside and read something else before I could carry on. Something I don’t recall doing in a long time.
There’re some bits and pieces on the operation of the vineyard, but for the most part things are taken care of by staff. A few of them caused problems, which upped the pace for a short time. Other than that, Nicola spent a great deal of her time lazing around in the swimming pool.
I read on in the hopes that the ending would be satisfying. For me, the best part about the end was the horse crapping in the church and people swooning because of it. The tradition/belief made me chuckle, especially when they started tossing coins in the pooh. Before that I didn’t feel much of anything. And I need the ‘feels’ to become invested in a story.
If you enjoy stories rich in detail and languid in pace, you’re bound to get a lot more out of ‘The Crush’ than I did.
Copy provided in exchange for an honest review
July 15, 2017
I am so happy I could revisit this story to read it to book club buddy D. D. had tried it on her own before but couldn't get past the first chapters when the asshole father of the main character was spoiling all the fun for her and so she had stopped reading it. I knew I could convince her the story was solid, like all of Susan X. Meagher's books are. And she would fall in love with Chiara just as I had done if she gave it another chance.
So I read The Crush to D. and she loved it. And it was such a pleasure to read again about Sienna, wine making, the Onda and the love between Nicola and Chiara and living in Tuscany. It will always be one of my favorite books. A solid 5 star read. Basta!
So I read The Crush to D. and she loved it. And it was such a pleasure to read again about Sienna, wine making, the Onda and the love between Nicola and Chiara and living in Tuscany. It will always be one of my favorite books. A solid 5 star read. Basta!
August 22, 2018
Well written but to be honest, the book was too long and I was yawning a few times throughout. And for some reason I just didn’t really feel the romance between the two MC’s.
July 29, 2013
This is now officially my favorite Susan Meagher book, and its all because of Chiara. I've read and loved a few books this year, but this is the first character i've read this year that i can call one of my 'all time favorite characters'. As for the book, it was pretty good too. :) I liked how the author very skillfully incorporated all the wine-making info into the story without any boring expositions and how much I learned about Italy without it sounding like a travelogue. The story really drew me in, and Nic and Chiara's adventures in steering the winery from mediocrity to excellence even at great personal cost and against some very steep odds was truly exciting and inspiring.
I read the whole book in a day, and I must admit that by 2am, I was only half-awake when I went through the penultimate chapter of the book about the Palio celebrations since all the main threads had already been resolved but I woke up in time for the epilogue. I hemmed and hawed on this because the book description was rather meh and i don't particularly like the subject matter (wine making), but the pairing was really hot, the tension and conflicts were intense, there was suspense and angst (surprisingly!), and of course there is Chiara! In other words, it was a real page turner. Definitely not just another romance.
I read the whole book in a day, and I must admit that by 2am, I was only half-awake when I went through the penultimate chapter of the book about the Palio celebrations since all the main threads had already been resolved but I woke up in time for the epilogue. I hemmed and hawed on this because the book description was rather meh and i don't particularly like the subject matter (wine making), but the pairing was really hot, the tension and conflicts were intense, there was suspense and angst (surprisingly!), and of course there is Chiara! In other words, it was a real page turner. Definitely not just another romance.
March 2, 2016
Research and italian stuff
Being italian and having relatives in Tuscany, I must say the author made a wonderful, wonderful research job on this book.
In particular, names are very tuscan. For example "Riccarda", Chiara's mother is a name you can find probably only in Tuscany.
Places, customes, jokes, language expressions are all exactly correct. But let me say, also the spirit of the italian life style is correct in the novel. And this is not taken for granted at all, because we see so many american works about Italy which are merely stereotypes!
Also, I'd like to mention the sound farm life description. I'm not an expert in this case, but again, Meagher describe realistically a life which is hard and challenging, not a mere bucolic dream.
Romance and story
The two main characters are both very nice. They are both strong, but each one with their frailities, and this makes them so complex and interesting, expecially as female characters.
Another original point here is about having somehow less angst between the two women. I found it heartwarming, even if it's not the usual romance cliché.
I think a minor flaw in the story is Of course that adds drive to the tale, but also ruined all my sympathy for the character.
Siena and the Palio
I'll go now a little OT and I'm going to describe my experience of Siena and the Palio, which is so significative in this story.
I regard Siena as one of the most beautiful italian cities, and that's something, consent me to say. A wonderfully preserved medieval burg, immersed in the most lovable country, Siena is really a jewel of Tuscany and Italy as a whole. Life there is relaxed, people open and likeable.
I have never been there for the Palio race, but I have been there the day before, and I tell you, it's impossible to leave the city unaffected. It's quite an experience indeed.
As a latin proverb says: semel in anno licet insanire (once in a year it's allowed to become mad).
The city literally burst with life. Colours of the contrade attire the whole city. Long rows of tables occupy the narrow streets in every corner of the city for night banquets and parties. And you hear drums and girls' choruses and chants everywhere: "To-to-torre!!!", "O-o-onda!!!", "Chio-chio-chiocciola!!!" and so on. And then all to the magnificent Campo place to see the trials with horses.
For the readers of The Crush, the book was published in 2013, and in that year the contrada dell'Onda or, more precisely, the "supreme" contrada dell'Onda, as it is called, won the Palio in August.
Being italian and having relatives in Tuscany, I must say the author made a wonderful, wonderful research job on this book.
In particular, names are very tuscan. For example "Riccarda", Chiara's mother is a name you can find probably only in Tuscany.
Places, customes, jokes, language expressions are all exactly correct. But let me say, also the spirit of the italian life style is correct in the novel. And this is not taken for granted at all, because we see so many american works about Italy which are merely stereotypes!
Also, I'd like to mention the sound farm life description. I'm not an expert in this case, but again, Meagher describe realistically a life which is hard and challenging, not a mere bucolic dream.
Romance and story
The two main characters are both very nice. They are both strong, but each one with their frailities, and this makes them so complex and interesting, expecially as female characters.
Another original point here is about having somehow less angst between the two women. I found it heartwarming, even if it's not the usual romance cliché.
I think a minor flaw in the story is Of course that adds drive to the tale, but also ruined all my sympathy for the character.
Siena and the Palio
I'll go now a little OT and I'm going to describe my experience of Siena and the Palio, which is so significative in this story.
I regard Siena as one of the most beautiful italian cities, and that's something, consent me to say. A wonderfully preserved medieval burg, immersed in the most lovable country, Siena is really a jewel of Tuscany and Italy as a whole. Life there is relaxed, people open and likeable.
I have never been there for the Palio race, but I have been there the day before, and I tell you, it's impossible to leave the city unaffected. It's quite an experience indeed.
As a latin proverb says: semel in anno licet insanire (once in a year it's allowed to become mad).
The city literally burst with life. Colours of the contrade attire the whole city. Long rows of tables occupy the narrow streets in every corner of the city for night banquets and parties. And you hear drums and girls' choruses and chants everywhere: "To-to-torre!!!", "O-o-onda!!!", "Chio-chio-chiocciola!!!" and so on. And then all to the magnificent Campo place to see the trials with horses.
For the readers of The Crush, the book was published in 2013, and in that year the contrada dell'Onda or, more precisely, the "supreme" contrada dell'Onda, as it is called, won the Palio in August.
November 5, 2023
Really enjoyed this - longer book than usual, thought of flagging half way though, but the embracement of the Italian culture was fascinating and different to my usual read. Usual les-rom story completed by 25%, moving into a plain good tale. Thank you. Perfect read while on holiday in Crete!
December 11, 2014
As I regularly do, I re-read books. I've adjusted the rating from 4 to 5 stars and it made my all time favorites list.
Why?
This story isn't just a romance. It's about love. For each other, for Italy, for wine. This is one of those books where I'm constantly consulting Wikipedia. I just have to know what the author is talking about. I even went as far to try and figure out the location of Bagnolesi Vineyards. There is no mention exactly where it is, but here I was, scrolling Google Maps and try to triangulate the location from the locations of all the places that are mentioned.
Having been to Siena myself, I can easily picture all the historical landmarks that are playing a big role, even if that visit was 25 years ago. It made my consider packing my suitcases, hop in my car and drive 1600 kilometers just to see it again.
It's really a great story, even if it is sometimes heavy on the facts about winemaking. But those are seamlessly woven into the story.
Just take a look at
that mysterious dolphin . I can totally imagine that as a tattoo :)
The author clearly has put a lot of research into the Contrade. Funny thing though. This book was first released in 2013 and from what I got from Chiara was that it had been a long time since Onda won the Palio. Yet Onda won the July Palio in 2012 and the August one on 2013. :)
Why?
This story isn't just a romance. It's about love. For each other, for Italy, for wine. This is one of those books where I'm constantly consulting Wikipedia. I just have to know what the author is talking about. I even went as far to try and figure out the location of Bagnolesi Vineyards. There is no mention exactly where it is, but here I was, scrolling Google Maps and try to triangulate the location from the locations of all the places that are mentioned.
Having been to Siena myself, I can easily picture all the historical landmarks that are playing a big role, even if that visit was 25 years ago. It made my consider packing my suitcases, hop in my car and drive 1600 kilometers just to see it again.
It's really a great story, even if it is sometimes heavy on the facts about winemaking. But those are seamlessly woven into the story.
Just take a look at
that mysterious dolphin . I can totally imagine that as a tattoo :)
The author clearly has put a lot of research into the Contrade. Funny thing though. This book was first released in 2013 and from what I got from Chiara was that it had been a long time since Onda won the Palio. Yet Onda won the July Palio in 2012 and the August one on 2013. :)
August 18, 2014
Reading this book took a while.
Oh! No, not because it's bad. the story is really nice. So nice that I didn't want to read it while I was on my break at work nor did I want to read it via tts WHILE I worked. I guess I wanted to fully immerse in the story. It warranted my undivided attention.
It was beautifully told. From the characters, romance, arguments, the stuff about wine and wine-making, about Italy. All those factors combined made reading interesting and enjoyable.
Three words I can associate with the story: Passion, Growth, and, of course Love. :)
Oh! No, not because it's bad. the story is really nice. So nice that I didn't want to read it while I was on my break at work nor did I want to read it via tts WHILE I worked. I guess I wanted to fully immerse in the story. It warranted my undivided attention.
It was beautifully told. From the characters, romance, arguments, the stuff about wine and wine-making, about Italy. All those factors combined made reading interesting and enjoyable.
Three words I can associate with the story: Passion, Growth, and, of course Love. :)
December 15, 2018
An exceptionally good read. Just like a fine wine...
April 7, 2018
The Crush
True to form, this is another excellent book by S X M. Like everything I've read by her, this is phenomenally researched, in depth and multi faceted. Above all, however, I love the evolution and character developments that is somehow unexpected, in an expected kind of way...I don't think that makes lots of sense, but that is my favourite thing about Susan's novels. Each one is a masterclass in writing.
True to form, this is another excellent book by S X M. Like everything I've read by her, this is phenomenally researched, in depth and multi faceted. Above all, however, I love the evolution and character developments that is somehow unexpected, in an expected kind of way...I don't think that makes lots of sense, but that is my favourite thing about Susan's novels. Each one is a masterclass in writing.
February 8, 2015
Loved it.
December 24, 2015
It had been a while since I finally found a book that I can pull an all-nighter to finish. The read is worthwhile, the romance is nicely done. This story makes me want to visit the local liquor store and purchase some wines just to differentiate their tastes.
While there are some words that are lost to me, parts that I got bored of, especially the whole Onda's business, events is being described so slow and drag on, or that minor conflicts keep appear and gone like the wind, I got quite a huge satisfaction when the main couple is able to prove themselves and their capabilities to their adversaries.
While there are some words that are lost to me, parts that I got bored of, especially the whole Onda's business, events is being described so slow and drag on, or that minor conflicts keep appear and gone like the wind, I got quite a huge satisfaction when the main couple is able to prove themselves and their capabilities to their adversaries.
August 28, 2013
Loved learning about wine making and fascinating history of the region. Good read.
March 26, 2017
I'm getting culture-shocked here. The only cultures I'm familiar with are my own and American (from lots of T.V shows), so I've always thought Italian would be just another modern Western version. How wrong I was! It's exciting to follow Nicola's adventure in a foreign country, which is very honest and sometimes heart breaking, because she wasn't there willingly and must learn to live and love the place. The romance is endearing and just the right amount of hotness, but what I like most is the portrayal of familial relationships. In the end I was left with a warm feeling, like I myself have also embraced Siena as a second-home. Certainly a time-worthy weekend read.
June 30, 2013
I'm a big fan of Meagher's standalone books. They always pull me in, and with more pages to them than most lesbian romance novels they're definitely a satisfying read. Her main characters - for the most part - intrigue me and draw me in. This book certainly lives up to those previous standards.
Though at times situations were a little far-fetched in The Crush, the characters and setting enabled me to move past any little niggles I had with the storyline. The romance is sweet, their chemistry obvious. There was just a little bit of a spark missing in this book overall, however, that makes it a good solid 4 stars and not a 5. I can't put my finger on quite what was missing, but I felt something was (certainly in comparison to some of my favourites of Meagher's).
Still, it was an enjoyable read and had me dreaming of visiting Siena again one day. The region is spectacular and one visit is definitely not enough, so I can fully understand why Nicola falls in love with it as much as she falls for the delightful Chiara.
Though at times situations were a little far-fetched in The Crush, the characters and setting enabled me to move past any little niggles I had with the storyline. The romance is sweet, their chemistry obvious. There was just a little bit of a spark missing in this book overall, however, that makes it a good solid 4 stars and not a 5. I can't put my finger on quite what was missing, but I felt something was (certainly in comparison to some of my favourites of Meagher's).
Still, it was an enjoyable read and had me dreaming of visiting Siena again one day. The region is spectacular and one visit is definitely not enough, so I can fully understand why Nicola falls in love with it as much as she falls for the delightful Chiara.
March 27, 2022
4 stars. I’m not gonna lie I was a bit iffy about this one in the beginning but that was only because the main character, Nicola, was so annoying. She’s whiny, and self absorbed and I was not feeling her at first. However, she does go through some really fantastic character development and I ended up loving her in the end. I loved her growth. The way she stands up to her awful dad and her aunt had me rooting for her every time. She’s a very determined and headstrong character.
The story takes place in Tuscany and Nicola is running a winery for her father even though she had no interest in it in the beginning. She has a one night stand with Chiara and they end up falling for each other. I really liked the romance. It was so sweet and swoon worthy. They had great chemistry though I will say that I wish we had dived a bit more into Chiara’s character. I feel like I didn’t really know her which is unfortunate. I did like her but I wanted more.
The setting and description were beautiful and vivd. This was my first Meagher book and I really loved her writing style. It’s paced well, it’s romantic and entertaining. I have quite a few of her books on my kindle and I’m excited to get to them. This was a really good place to start.
The story takes place in Tuscany and Nicola is running a winery for her father even though she had no interest in it in the beginning. She has a one night stand with Chiara and they end up falling for each other. I really liked the romance. It was so sweet and swoon worthy. They had great chemistry though I will say that I wish we had dived a bit more into Chiara’s character. I feel like I didn’t really know her which is unfortunate. I did like her but I wanted more.
The setting and description were beautiful and vivd. This was my first Meagher book and I really loved her writing style. It’s paced well, it’s romantic and entertaining. I have quite a few of her books on my kindle and I’m excited to get to them. This was a really good place to start.
May 31, 2013
Absolutely love Susan Meagher's writing. Although i am always left wanting more, i can't complain this book is long, like most of her stories. I always feel transported to the locations she describes. Her characters are well developed. I think I fell in love with the vineyard. I will miss the grapes, the struggles of winemaking and of course the passionate Italian people.
August 6, 2016
You'll definitely get immersed in the world of Italian wine-making Meagher creates, but the tale could have benefited from more forward momentum, and a greater focus on the main characters' relationship.
January 13, 2021
This has been my least favorite of Ms. Meagher's books. It is hard when you instantly don't like the Main Character Nicola andy by the end of the book, you still haven't come to like her much. This story takes place in the Sienna region of Italy and immerse the reader in the wine country and the local life of it's people. I learned a great deal about wine and it's making and what life on the "farm" is like. There is quite a bit of family dynamics that are harsh and Nicola must finally grow up (although she is already and adult). She is sent to Italy by her father to become a caretaker for the winery he inherits and it is a whirlwind from there. The book is really long and makes the story drag in places. The other Main Character is Chiarra, the winemaker and their instant attraction and love affair. It seemed a bit too easy for me. I do like Ms. Meaghers writing and storytelling. I have enjoyed other stories and I love her in depth div into careers and industries. That is well worth the read.
December 25, 2020
Don't waste your time! I despised the main characters, who were wimpy, spineless and boring. The father and aunt of Nicola were mean spirited, obnoxious and rude. There just wasn't anything in the book that made it worth reading. I kept hoping... and hoping....
February 13, 2018
A great book, but damn, the father is 100% asshole not Italian.
August 18, 2021
4.5
wine!!!!!!!! and one pizza
wine!!!!!!!! and one pizza
August 29, 2022
While I had a hard time following the story in some parts, overall it was absolutely beautiful. I haven't cried this much through a book in a long time. This was a fantastic read.
June 2, 2013
Nicola Bagnolesi is happily working at her father’s advertising agency in Chicago when she gets a terrible shock. Aldo Bagnolesi, her father, has just gained control of the winery in Tuscany that has been in his family for years. There is just one tiny problem with this, Aldo needs someone to run it for the next two years as he can’t retire just yet. Who better than his expendable daughter, Nicola?
Nicola feels pressured into agreeing, even though she knows nothing about wine and has no interest in living in Italy. Heck, she doesn’t even speak Italian. It’s only for two years though, how hard can it be?
Nicola finds out that living in Italy isn’t at all how she’d imagined it. She has no friends, the language barrier is a big problem and the easy caretaker life she’d envisaged isn’t happening. Nicola decides that she can and will do something about the no friends situation and heads to Florence to a gay bar. This is the one decision that could change her life forever. She connects with a beautiful, sexy, lesbian and she seems just as interested in Nicola as Nicola is in her. Plus she speaks English.
Is Nicola silly to set such great store by one meeting? Or should she throw doubts and caution to the wind?
Another winning hot romance story from Susan Meagher. This book is refreshingly different from others I’ve read recently. The setting is Italy, the scenic descriptions are beautiful. Easy to visualize myself in Italy in the vineyard picking the grapes with Nicola and Chiara.
Both Nicola and Chiara are wonderful, multifaceted, well formed characters, easy to get to know and love. They are backed up by a great cast of equally well formed characters to enhance and progress the story right through to the end.
This goes beyond a romance, to the art of winemaking, bringing in some history of Italy and encompassing Nicola’s difficult and complex relationship with her father. (I could have cheerfully shaken him on more than one occasion). The story also shows how Nicola went from a rather slap dash and spoilt girl, used to having her own way, to the sophisticated, knowledgeable women she became. The fact that the romance is hot doesn’t hurt either. This is a book I will read again to savor the story and it’s settings.
Nicola feels pressured into agreeing, even though she knows nothing about wine and has no interest in living in Italy. Heck, she doesn’t even speak Italian. It’s only for two years though, how hard can it be?
Nicola finds out that living in Italy isn’t at all how she’d imagined it. She has no friends, the language barrier is a big problem and the easy caretaker life she’d envisaged isn’t happening. Nicola decides that she can and will do something about the no friends situation and heads to Florence to a gay bar. This is the one decision that could change her life forever. She connects with a beautiful, sexy, lesbian and she seems just as interested in Nicola as Nicola is in her. Plus she speaks English.
Is Nicola silly to set such great store by one meeting? Or should she throw doubts and caution to the wind?
Another winning hot romance story from Susan Meagher. This book is refreshingly different from others I’ve read recently. The setting is Italy, the scenic descriptions are beautiful. Easy to visualize myself in Italy in the vineyard picking the grapes with Nicola and Chiara.
Both Nicola and Chiara are wonderful, multifaceted, well formed characters, easy to get to know and love. They are backed up by a great cast of equally well formed characters to enhance and progress the story right through to the end.
This goes beyond a romance, to the art of winemaking, bringing in some history of Italy and encompassing Nicola’s difficult and complex relationship with her father. (I could have cheerfully shaken him on more than one occasion). The story also shows how Nicola went from a rather slap dash and spoilt girl, used to having her own way, to the sophisticated, knowledgeable women she became. The fact that the romance is hot doesn’t hurt either. This is a book I will read again to savor the story and it’s settings.
July 10, 2015
Just finised reading an amazing book and also very long haha. I loved it very much. At first its was i don't know not interesting but after Nicola arrived in Italy it started getting more interesting and a even till the end it was a little crazy. But it also taught me a lot about wine even if its might not be the same way people actually taste wine its interesting to read in in someone else perspective. And also pretty amazing the way she incorporated some kind of religion into the book. I love how she worked hard not only for the winery that became her life in Italy but she also fell in love with her winemaker Chiara. I really enjoyed this book even if it took me weeks to finish but still amazingly written and loved how Italy language was incorporated into it too i actually learned a couple of new words. Pretty amazing book in all.
February 8, 2017
Glad it wasn't the first Susan Meagher book I read because I would not have read another one. This was a major disappointment. Boring, pointless, couldn't get past 30% of the book. Her Chef's Special and Inside Out are winners. This one, you should miss.
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