Aiden's insatiable appetite for women keeps him complacent living the life of a steadfast bachelor. A U.S. Army veteran and business owner, his stunning good looks and accolades attract many women in his upscale wine bar. It isn't until he meets the alluring yet paradoxical Celeste that his attitude about commitment begins to change. He is drawn to the enigma of this beautiful woman, yet constrained by his painful secrets.
When an unexpected revelation and insight into his past are exposed, Aiden must choose between this passionate love affair or exiling his heart from her betrayal. The entwining of their secrets threatens to destroy them both, just as the buds of their new-found love come to fruition. Will he triumph over his bitter past and fight for true love or is their romance destined to wither like the barren vines after a successful vintage?
Alex M Smith started writing at an early age, experimenting with poetry and short stories at first. Upon his graduation from college, his father was diagnosed with Lou Gehrig's disease (ALS). That changed Alex's plans and brought him down to earth and took him away from writing. Fifteen years into his career, he decided to go back to his first love, writing. In 2012, he published his first novel, The End of Summer, and never looked back. Since then 10% of the proceeds of his books go to better the lives of ALS patients.
Well! This is the little story that could! It has it all, the romance, the suspense, the friendship, the sex, the drama. All of it ripening in the mouth of a reader left craving for more.
I could attempt to write a plot summary, but I would fail. There are a plethora of protagonists in this story, and despite Aidan and Celeste taking a front seat, I can't but feel Larry and Jackie have their own spotlight, as does Kate and Joey. Such distinct personas, each with their own flavour, each with their own fears and insecurities, past mistakes guarded by rock-hard defences.
I admit, it was a bit confusing at first, getting thrown head-first into stories of people we haven't heard of. It cleared out fast though, and in a very gentle, non-forced way. After all, everyone knows, wine's true taste comes after the swallow.
What ISN'T included in this book... ok, M-M is not included, I admit, but some really sizzling girl on girl action is! So many people, so many different stories, all so artfully brought together, intertwined with one another, bringing out the subtle notes in each one's character and style. Different personalities that compliment their companions, beautiful relationships maturing and bearing fruit... just lovely.
All in all, a very interesting read, sweet like a Cabernet, spicy like a Merlot, and with a hint of mystery like a Shiraz ... can I have another glass, please?
"I opened my heart to you and you disappointed me".... Now that's a line that says so much and can really hit hard. Although that line was said by the main character, surprisingly enough the main characters were not my fave. Don't get me wrong, I enjoyed them but I just fell in love with Jackie and Larry. Read the book and I think you'll figure out why. The story was really fast paced and had a lot going on, with several complex and simple characters that tie together one way or another....it was definitely more than just a sex and romance book. It was sad, funny, mysterious, and surprising all in one. Plus a bonus laugh out loud---frozen peas on the cock scene that just was too funny.
This story was amazing!I was absolutely hooked by the characters and I can't wait to read more about Celeste and Aiden! If I could give it ten stars I would.