Before We Say Goodbye

Red Mountain Chronicles #0.6

by Boo Walker

An epic love story unfolds in a heart-stirring prequel to the Red Mountain Chronicles by Boo Walker, the bestselling author of An Unfinished Story and An Echo in Time.

In Washington State’s Red Mountain wine country, Otis and Rebecca’s bond was one for the ages. Now older, and reflecting on his blessings and his losses, Otis is moved to write down the love story of their lives.

At Woodstock in 1969, two lost souls with big hearts and boundless dreams see the future and all its possibilities in each other’s eyes. Before the music is even over, Otis is thunderstruck by the liberating Rebecca, so much so that he’s suddenly questioning his attendance at Berkeley and decision to follow in his father’s footsteps as a journalist. When he first sets eyes on the vineyards of Sonoma, where Rebecca is from, the captivating idea of a life in wine further mars his path. Would it be so crazy to chase a dream? Impulsively married, unquestionably devoted, Otis and Rebecca are thirsty to see what happens next—wherever it takes them and no matter how hard it gets.

Over the decades, from Sonoma to the delightfully eccentric community of Red Mountain, Otis and Rebecca fight against all odds to work their way to the top of the wine world. But neither of them could have imagined the darkness to come, or what it will take to find a spark of light once again.

Genres: Fiction, Historical Fiction, Romance, Audiobook, Chick Lit, Book Club, Womens Fiction

445 pages, Kindle Edition

Published September 16, 2025

About the author

Bestselling author Boo Walker initially tapped his creative muse as a songwriter and banjoist in Nashville before working his way west to Washington State, where he bought a gentleman’s farm on the Yakima River. It was there amongst the grapevines and wine barrels that he fell in love with telling stories that now resonate with book clubs around the world. Rich with colorful characters and boundless soul, his novels will leave you with an open heart and a lifted spirit.

Always a wanderer, Boo currently lives in Valencia, Spain with his wife and son. He also writes thrillers under the pen name Benjamin Blackmore. You can find him at boowalker.com and benjaminblackmore.com.

For a free copy of his Red Mountain cookbook, updates, and other goodies, sign up for his newsletter at boowalker.com.

Reviews

[Di · Rating 5 out of 5]

When I chose to read this book, I did not realize that it was the prequel to a trilogy. But I don't think that affected my enjoyment or the flow of the story. I don't normally read a series, but after this book, I may have to.

Otis and Rebecca meet as teenagers, on a purple bus that is going to Woodstock in 1969. There was instant connection between the two, causing Otis to abandon his life plan of university and becoming a writer. Instead, he develops a lifetime obsession with Rebecca and with becoming a vintner.

We follow the relationship of Otis and Rebecca through the years. Because each one of them is flawed, I found the characterization of their life together very realistic. The wine-producing process is very informative and interesting. The relationship has its problems as does the business.

Yes, this book is about wine and relationships. I learned more about wine than I’ll ever remember. The descriptions of the tastes of different wines made my mouth water. The overtones and undertones. I enjoy wine, but I wish my palate was sophisticated enough to appreciate all the different nuances. It was so well described.

This is not a book for someone looking for fast-paced action. This is a slow burn narrative, it is descriptive and it is character character-building novel. And the tale of a family. It’s a story to be savoured. And, the author is so good at creating these stories.

There were a few surprises towards the end. And, there were definitely a few tears shed.

I'm off to nurse my book hangover!

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the Advance Readers Copy.

[Dwon · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thanks to Netgally and the publisher for an advanced copy of the audio book in exchange for an honest review!
Let me start by saying I haven't read any of the other Red Mountain books. I didn't know this was connected to any other books, or i would have. However, this seemed perfectly fine as a standalone novel. I'm not sure if it's kind of a prequel or just to give more context and background for Otis's character, but this story seemed complete to me.
Before We Say Goodbye follows the life of Otis Till. From the time he meets the love of his life until he gets through grief and depression later in life and all of the ups and downs in between. The story had alternating points of view (him and his wife), and the story is perfect. I l9ved both of the narrators, and though i think this would be great in any format, I think the audio version is better. This book was detailed (about wine!) and heartbreaking and uplifting. I loved how much Otis's character changed and grew into a better person throughout the story. This book is excellent, and I think you should definitely read it.

[Elaine · Rating 5 out of 5]

WOW! What an emotional rollercoaster of a book! And, what a story!!

We begin in the 1960's. Otis is heading towards NY and ends up on his way to WOODSTOCK. While on the purple bus heading that way, he meets Rebecca (Becca) who is the complete, polar opposite of him. Where he's regimented and scheduled, she's carefree and like a breath of fresh air. They spend time at Woodstock... and fall in love.

But, this is only the very beginning of their story... a very long and winding one at that.
Through the years, Otis is forced to grow up, take charge, learn, love, respect, learn some more... and grow....again and again!
He ends up finding another love, which is in the form of wine making... and follows a path that leads to a career. They have nothing, and yet they have everything that they need.

Time goes on. Lives are changed. They both have a great deal of learning and growing to do... but it is done in such a sweet and heartfelt way that YOU can't help but fall in love with both of them as well!! Their family grows. Losses are sustained. Life unfortunately goes on....

This is such a powerful tribute to love, family, life, friends and the value of friendship in life, work/life balance... and so much more. It's almost like it should be required reading for those looking to embark on marriage!!!
The true spirit of love, forgiveness, building each other up... and again, so much more!!!

I've read this author before and loved each book! If you have not heard of him or his books, please STOP what you are doing and look them up! He is a very gifted writer who will make you stop and think about the book, and I'm guessing that that will be going on for a long time after the book is done...

#BeforeWeSayGoodbye by @BooWalker and narrated beautifully by @JimMeskimen and @MaureenJones.

5+ Beautiful, Bright, Shining, Love Filled 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 for me!

*** THIS HAS NOT BEEN RELEASED YET!!! LOOK 👀 FOR IT SOON!! RELEASE DATE IS 9/16/25!! ***

Thanks so much to #NetGalley, #BrillianceAudio and #BrillianceBooks for an ARC of the audiobook in exchange for an honest review.

You can find my reviews on: Goodreads,
Insta @BookReviews_with_emsr and/or
My Facebook Book Club: Book Reviews With Elaine

Thanks so much for reading! And if you ‘liked’ my review, please share with your friends, & click ‘LIKE’ below… And, let me know YOUR thoughts if you read it!! 📚⭐️

[Erika Renee Lowry · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book tells the beautiful story of a family and their ups and downs as the husband/father navigates his life purpose in winemaking. The parts that focused on the winemaking were a bit slow for me. But the last couple of chapters had me sobbing like a baby! I was not expecting that! Anything that Boo Walker writes, ya girl is going to read it.

[Kayla Witt · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh well shoot…. That was definitely in my top 5 books for 2025. I’m gonna need a few days to recover. It was so lovely. 🥹

[Mari Anne · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you haven’t yet read The Red Mountain Chronicles, I highly encourage you to start there while you wait for this one to drop on 9/16! I was blessed to have the opportunity to read this ARC of origin story of Otis Till, the protagonist of the series, and it is superb! This book will make you feel all the feels! I laughed. I cried. I had the desire to book a trip to Red Mountain in Washington State just to take in the terroir and taste the wines (and I’m not a wine drinker!). The story and the characters in the Red Mountain saga are so well crafted that you just fall in love with them. Thank you, Boo Walker, for bringing them to life!

[Susan Belafi-Rausch · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved this book. Captivating story line, love story and with beautiful imagery.
I didn’t realize it was part of a series, so I will continue the story.

[Emily Miller · Rating 4 out of 5]

I went back and forth a lot with this book in terms of rating. This was the first of the Red Mountain novels I read. There were parts I hated, parts I really enjoyed, and parts I loved. I thought most of the novel that Otis was the biggest grump. Every time he had something good going for him, it was never enough. He always had something to complain about. Every obstacle he over came, he had 2 seconds of feeling achieved and then he so easily let some minuscule thing bother him and derail his whole life. On the other hand, I loved that Bec would bring him back to earth and he would have a level head and help people out to give them second chances, like Vance for example. The end of the novel really stuck with me days after finishing it, which is why I waited to write a review so I could fully grasp my feelings on what I read.

[Nima Morgan · Rating 5 out of 5]

This novel is sure to be on top of the 2025 reading lists. It was heartfelt, emotional, and full of love, loss, and grief. The writing is excellent, and I've found a new favorite author.

Thank you, NetGalley and Brilliance Audio, for this ARC.

[Kathy Eiferle · Rating 3 out of 5]

Started out as a 5 and ended as a 5. Plugged along at three stars during the middle. It was a beautiful book, tho!

[Sarah Jensen · Rating 4 out of 5]

Book Review: Before We Say Goodbye by Boo Walker

Overview
Before We Say Goodbye is a poignant addition to Boo Walker’s Red Mountain series, blending emotional depth with the rustic charm of its Pacific Northwest setting. Known for his lyrical prose and relatable characters, Walker delivers a story that explores love, loss, and the quiet resilience of human connections. The novel stands out for its atmospheric storytelling and introspective themes, though it occasionally leans into familiar tropes of small-town fiction.

Themes & Execution (4/5)
Walker’s strength lies in his ability to weave universal emotions—grief, redemption, and the passage of time—into the fabric of everyday life. The novel’s exploration of farewells, both literal and metaphorical, is tender but occasionally predictable. The Red Mountain backdrop remains vivid, though readers of the series may crave fresher narrative angles.

Character Development (4.5/5)
The protagonist’s journey is compelling, with secondary characters adding warmth and complexity. Walker excels at crafting flawed yet endearing individuals, though some arcs resolve too neatly. A standout subplot involving an elderly character’s reflections on regret elevates the emotional weight.

Pacing & Style (3.5/5)
The prose is elegant, with a cadence that mirrors the novel’s contemplative tone. However, the pacing lags in the middle, with introspective passages occasionally overshadowing momentum. Fans of literary fiction will appreciate the deliberate rhythm, but those seeking brisk storytelling might find it slow.

Originality (3/5)
While beautifully written, the plot treads ground familiar to the genre. Walker’s authenticity and regional detail compensate, but the novel doesn’t break new ground structurally or thematically.

Overall Rating: 4/5
A moving, if occasionally conventional, addition to the Red Mountain saga. Walker’s empathy and craftsmanship shine, making it a rewarding read for fans of character-driven stories.

Acknowledgments
Thank you to NetGalley and the author, Boo Walker, for providing an advance review copy. This critique reflects my unbiased evaluation.

[Nicole Bjornerud · Rating 5 out of 5]

Following along Otis and Becs love story from the hippie movement in the 60s. This book captured the essence of commitment, marriage and becoming a renowned wine maker. The rocky journey of giving your all into becoming a wine maker, the trials and tribulations. I’m in love with mix between first and third person and recommend to anyone needing a read to blast you back into 1960 California.

[Lisa Boring · Rating 1 out of 5]

I struuugggled with this book. The subject matter of the wine industry peaked my interest. But unfortunately, for me personally, it was not enough to distract from how utterly depressing this book was. I honestly reached for other “to-dos” to keep from picking it back up again sometimes. I wanted to be done 25% through and it just dragged until the very end. No disrespect intended, and I’m obviously the minority but this one was just not for me.

[Moira]

DNF @35%.
The book honestly seems cute, the characters are likable enough, the story was interesting at times, but not sure it’s for me. The last few chapters have been painfully slow and long, on audible a chapter can be 27 minutes and nothing happens. I also have 0 interest in wine, which is what the characters talk about 98% of the time.

[Jo · Rating 5 out of 5]

Review
BEFORE WE SAY GOODBYE
By Boo Walker
Up front I have to say that I have read the Red Mountain trilogy by Boo Walker. This book is the prequel to those stories. We are introduced to Otis Till when he is a teenager, and follow him through his adult life. We start with a prolog by his wife of over 40 years introducing him as they met and as she knew him, and how she is still watching over him. Then we jump to Otis when he was 16 and headed to Woodstock on a purple bus, where he meets lively young Rebecca. They fall madly in love with each other. Even though they come from such different backgrounds and family types. We see how her presence in his life changes the direction of both his life and hers. We watch their relationship grow and how knowing her led him to finally knowing what he wanted, needed, to do with his life.
While visiting her parents in Sonoma and witnessing their dynamics, he is asked to give them some time to work through some things. He takes a drive and ends up in wine country in Sonoma. It is here that a light comes on for him and he knows that maybe Berkely and becoming a journalist like his father is not for him. He experiences an epiphany in a vineyard and feels wine making is in his blood and what he is destined to do with his life. He and Rebecca marry young and they both dream of making it big in the wine world.
The whole time Otis’s father wanted him to follow in his footsteps, go to Berkeley and become a journalist. Otis’s decision to learn wine making instead only feeds Otis’s belief that he is not good enough according to his father. He only saw his father’s life as utterly boring, and his father as a critical, unhappy person. He never felt he lived up to his father’s expectations. This dynamic from his family will impact him in many of the decisions he makes as he is learning to become a vintner.
We follow Rebecca and Otis as they develop a vineyard and family in Sonoma and as Otis makes a name for himself in the wine world. He takes on a business partner to financially help him get started. He is a driven man, out to prove to his father and everyone that he is a worthy wine maker. But is he too driven to be “pure” with his winemaking, looking to capture “terroir”- the natural environment in which the grapes are grown? He tries to force the quality that his mentor tells him can only be captured by letting it happen. But he gets frustrated that he does not get rave reviews about his wine, and he harbors resentments when he is not appreciated. How can he feel successful?
This book had me laughing and crying and the characters came alive as we followed them through the decades. I learned a lot about making wine and mostly I enjoyed the company of his characters and spending time in both Sonoma and Red Mountain, Washington. Having read his other books before this one did not in the least take away from learning what Otis’s life was like before he got to Red Mountain. I would hope if you read this book, that you would go on to read the rest of the series, plus the other booka, An Unfinished Story and A Marriage Well Done, also related to Red Mountain the Red Mountain series.

[Jeff · Rating 5 out of 5]

Quite Possibly Walker's Best Yet. I've been reading Walker's books for several years now, finding him with An Unfinished Journey, which was apparently his next book after the Red Mountain saga. Because of my own reading schedule - 90% of which, including Unfinished Journey and every other book from Walker I've read, including this one, is Advance Review Copy based - I haven't had a chance to go back and read that saga yet.

With this book... I *really* need to. Not because I needed it in order to understand this book, quite the opposite. This book is *so* compelling and *so* well told that it really makes you feel for Mr. Otis Till and all that he has gone through - stuff that apparently is largely history by the beginning of the Red Mountain books, as this is his "origin" story and apparently he is a key player in the rest of the saga.

Told in a dual timeline manner with a touch of the supernatural/ magical realism, this is one of those books that uses those components well enough that even people who claim to not like any book that uses them - and yes, I've seen some of those types of readers over the years - shouldn't have any difficulty with this book and indeed, I would even go so far as to say that if you allow yourself to miss this book because of your own hangups on those types of issues, you're doing yourself a great disservice and missing out on a truly terrific book.

This is one of those tales that so very many men can relate to - the same type of story that made The Greatest Showman so truly spectacular. A man struggling to attain his life's desires, finding it... and finding what really matters after all. Many of us have either been there or are somewhere along that path and can identify all too well with these desires, and Walker captures that struggle across the decades *perfectly*.

And yet there is more than enough here for female readers as well, as we see how Till first meets the love of his life and how she shapes the life they lead together across all the years they have left together... and then some.

Those looking for ghost pepper level spice won't find that here, but also those looking for no more spice than a warm glass of milk may get quite red in the cheeks at times, or perhaps even get the vapors. There is nothing here that I would hesitate at all to put in front of a mid-teen or so, though it is likely a bit much for those younger than that. (To be fair, it is also one that those younger than that won't be able to relate to as much either, but most any adult should be able to relate all too well to.)

Truly quite likely Walker at his absolute best to date, this is one that both makes me want to go back and read the Red Mountain Saga... and hope that there are more books in this particular series forthcoming.

Very much recommended.

[JUDITH Turner · Rating 5 out of 5]

Broke my heart

This novel broke my heart and stomped that sucker flat, as the late great AJC columnist, Lewis Grizzard, wrote. First, I love Boo Walker's writing. He is a master of analogies. His impeccable use of language emblem the words with depth and heart. This is best illustrates by his walks and talks with Carmine in his vineyard. Pure poetry. Second, though, I did not always like Otis. Especially for the first half of the book. I found him selfish, whiney,and totally non-self aware. He was an insecure jerk. Same with Rebecca's family. They were needy and selfish and users in more ways than one. The story itself was compelling, and truly held together by Rebecca. Otis Pennington Till, British transplant, and 17-year old incoming freshman at Berkeley, is as straight as a ruler But on a lark, he jumps on a daisy-painted purple bus filled with hippies headed across the country to a rock festival called Woodstock in 1969. His seatmate, a pretty, petite blonde named Rebecca Bradshaw, over the miles changes the course of his life. Months later, a chance visit to a Sonoma winery sets him on his life's journey. If you wanted to know about wine-making, yhis book is for you. To be honest, though, I found a great deal of it in the middle yawn-inducing. Walker knows an enormous amount about being a vintner, but in imparting his knowledge, he gets way into the weeds and the technology of making wine (equipment, inside-wine terms and famous vintners, etc) was too much for me. The meat of the book starts about three-quarters of the way through. I sobbed so hard I could not stop. What happens to Otis is uplifting and redeeming. Such a heart-felt book. I think when I have time to .. reflect, it will likely be a favorite. Warning: do not read in public. A final note: as one who worked in the music business in Nashville for 40 years I could easily believe he is a songwriter. His prose is as lyrical as a song. Bravo maestro. 1
.

[Marion Sheppard · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 stars. Having thoroughly enjoyed reading the Red Mountain books, I was intrigued to find this prequel. We follow Otis' (and his family) journey from the genesis of his passion and love for creating wine until just before he appears in the Red Mountain books, giving us a closer look at who he was and how his life played out.

The novel opens with Otis, now older, reflecting on the life he built with Rebecca as he sets out to write their love story. He revisits how it all began in 1969: aboard a bus bound for Woodstock, a hopeful young Otis meets the free spirited Rebecca, and the connection between them is instantaneous. Rebecca’s passion and independence challenge Otis’s plans to follow in his father’s footsteps as a journalist—and gradually pull him toward a future he never expected.

They marry impulsively and set out together, forging a life amid California’s vineyards and eventually journeying to the wine country of Red Mountain in Washington State. As they build their careers, face financial and emotional obstacles, balance dreams and responsibilities, their bond is tested by tragedy, doubt, and the shifting tides of time. Through heartbreaks and triumphs, Otis and Rebecca push toward success in winemaking and confront the darker seasons of life. In telling their story, Otis attempts to capture not only the passion of their youth, but also the resilience and sacrifices that defined their years together.

Walker’s writing is tender and evocative, skillfully weaving together multiple perspectives to create a narrative that is both poignant and hopeful. As the characters confront painful truths and rediscover what truly matters, readers are drawn into a deeply human journey that resonates long after the final page. It is beautifully layered storytelling with emotional depth that create a heartfelt story making this book a delight to read.

[Terrie Bednarczyk · Rating 5 out of 5]

Before We Say Goodbye by Boo Walker is part of the Red Mountain series set in the raw & rustic, vividly beautiful wine country of the Pacific Northwest, Washington State.
Otis Pennington Till, the unabashedly rigid protagonist of this story, meets the free-spirited Rebecca on a bus bound for Woodstock in 1969. There could never be two people more different than Otis & Rebecca! I believe the saying “opposites attract” could have been based on them.
It
Otis’ goal in life is to become a world renown vintner & wine maker. He was desperate to garner approval from other wine makers, producers, & wine magazine authors. He even earned the nickname, ‘The Grapefather’! Rebecca was his main supporter & helper. The two of them worked hard alongside their two sons & the vineyard workers/employees to make the dream become a reality.
Their journey through life had its ups & downs & struggles, but they always remained a strong team, a force that was unmatched.

Boo is a great storyteller who weaves all the emotions…love, sadness, forgiveness, empathy, patience, grief, & frustration…into the meat (life) of this story. I truly thank him for giving me the opportunity to read & review Before We Say Goodbye. I absolutely adored this book & many times went back to reread sections of it. Not only because it’s good, but I was crying so much I couldn’t see the words when I first read it!
I have enjoyed all Boo Walker’s books & will highly recommend Before We Say Goodbye to friends & other readers!

[Kaitlyn (Katie) Jack · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Before We Say Goodbye” by Boo Walker was my first novel by this author, and I’m so glad I picked it up. Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with an advanced listener copy in exchange for my honest thoughts.

I haven’t read the Red Mountain series yet, but I was excited to learn that Otis’s story continues there. I’ll definitely be picking those up next. That said, this book absolutely works as a standalone. It has strong character development and an uplifting tone that makes it very enjoyable and complete on its own in my opinion.

The story follows Otis Till as he reflects on his life after the loss of his wife. He tells the love story of how he met his beloved Rebecca, discovered his passion for winemaking, faced the ups and downs of raising a family, finally found a work/life balance, navigated challenging relationships, and endured the heartbreak of loss. His decisions aren’t always great, which makes them feel all the more authentic and relatable. Otis isn’t perfect, but he’s deeply human, and I really reading about his growth arc throughout the novel. He owns his mistakes, learns from them, and ultimately changes to become a better man.

Both audiobook narrators were excellent and brought the story to life beautifully. Overall, I found this book to be heartfelt and uplifting, with a memorable message about looking outside yourself to help others, having faith, and that your wife is always right 😉.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (5/5) – A moving, heartfelt story with a wonderful character arc and an inspiring reminder of love, loss, and second chances.

[Nana · Rating 5 out of 5]

Otis and Rebecca met on a bus that was taking them to Woodstock in 1969, Their attraction was instant, and Rebecca was a free spirit, while, Otis thought he had his life planned out. When Woodstock was over, Otis went to Sonoma, California with Rebecca, which is where her family lived. Like all journey's there are ups and down, but when Otis saw the vineyards, he knew this was his passion, and this is where he changed his course in life.
This was the start of their wine business, with struggles, ups and downs, so much to learn, but determined to ride out their life to see where it led them. Reading the story, as it unfolded, many times, I thought those two were meant to be together they balanced each other out. The day came where they decided they had to let go of the vineyard, and move somewhere else, it was what was best for their family. They hadn't a clue, they just traveled around until they went to Washington State, and saw Red Mountain, and they all knew this is where they were meant to live now.
I enjoyed this book, because it tugged at my heart strings, the feelings I got when they were so determined to make things work, no matter how hard they had to work, to their successes, disappointments, to their grieving, it just has so much heart and soul. I don't find many books with the heart and soul of this one.
I received an ARC from Lake Union Publishing through NetGallery.

[Barbara Beck · Rating 5 out of 5]

How do you describe a book that meets every expectation you ever wanted by an author who excites you and leaves you wanting more? Boo Walker has done that masterfully and left me turning the last page needing more. A story beginning during the era of Woodstock with Rebecca and Otis, young and impressionable, full of life and dreams. They followed love and broke the rules to be together and stay together. Their years were covered with joy and pain, success and failure and unbelievable sorrow. Beaten and at the bottom they forged past pain so crippling it should have broken them. But Otis and Rebecca “his Forever girl” were like the phoenix and rose again and again with passion and pride. Rebecca is charming and charismatic while Otis is strong-willed, of one mind, and can be very stubborn. Boo Walker takes us on a journey of love and longing. His Red Mountain books are excellent reads and the telling of Otis completes the series. His characters are unforgettable. His story kept me hoping there could be another. But if not, I am a huge fan of his writing and am anxious to see what he writes next. He’s that good and Before We Say Goodbye is a five-star book!!! Its sure to go right to the top! Get ready Boo, the best is coming. I can’t say enough good things about his books and writing. He is a great storyteller and his books are so good you will want to read them again, share them, buy them, and give them as gifts!!

[Lisa · Rating 4 out of 5]

Before We Say Goodbye tells the story of the life and love of straight-laced, idealistic Otis and free-spirited hippie Rebecca, who meet as teenagers on a bus to Woodstock and fall hard for each other. Throughout the book Otis reflects on the life and family they build together in Sonoma as he blindly pursues his ambition to become a world-renowned winemaker. I was not familiar with Boo Walker’s Red Mountain series but apparently Otis is a main character in these novels and Before We Say Goodbye is his origin story.

I enjoyed most aspects of the book. The wine, the setting, the farming, and the people are all vividly brought to life. Otis is a very well developed and flawed character. His stubbornness and ego made me not like him very much, but that’s testament to good writing by the author! The book explores themes of love, loss, hope, resilience, ambition, ego, complicated family dynamics, and high parental expectations.

The part that didn’t work as well for me was on the emotional side. I felt like some of the moments that could have had a lot of emotional resonance fell a bit flat and I was never fully convinced of Rebecca’s love for Otis. It didn’t stop me from enjoying the book though. This is my first Boo Walker book but it won’t be my last!

Thank you to Lake Union publishing and NetGalley for this ARC in exchange for my honest review.

[David · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am a fan of Boo Walker and have read all of his recent works. However, I have not read the Red Mountain Chronicles. This work is a prequel to the Red Mountain novels, so I thought I would jump in early. I am glad I did and am now looking forward to going back to the future with the Red Mountain Chronicles.
This book covers an entire lifetime. It is about love, ambition and passion. Otis finds the love of his life on a bus trip to Woodstock in 1969. He and his wife Rebecca move to California where he finds the passion of his life: cultivating a vineyard and creating great wine. The book deals with how our ambition and passion to succeed in life can conflict with our love and passion for our family. The book moves back and forth from the end of Otis' life, looking back on all that he has lost, and his younger life driven to succeed. The narrator changes from third person to first person, both from Otis' perspective and Rebecca's perspective. It is a well crafted novel that would make a good subject of study.
An interesting side note is the emphasis on wine and wine making. I knew nothing about vineyards or wine before reading the book, but now have a basic knowledge of the craft. It is worth reading for that alone.
This is Boo Walker's best work. I highly recommend it.

[Anne Wolters · Rating 4 out of 5]

Before We Say Goodbye is an emotionally resonant story that explores the complexities of grief, healing, and the bonds that bind us to one another. Boo Walker writes a narrative that is both heart-wrenching and hopeful, following three characters—each grappling with loss—as their lives intersect in unexpected and meaningful ways.
The pacing is steady, and the character development is a standout. Walker has a gift for portraying raw emotion without veering into melodrama, and the setting adds a gentle, almost meditative backdrop to the characters’ inner turmoil. I found myself deeply invested in their journeys, especially in how they confront their pasts and find courage to move forward.
That said, one aspect that pulled me out of the story at times was the frequent use of the F-word. While I understand the intent to reflect authentic dialogue and emotional intensity, it occasionally felt excessive and didn’t always serve the narrative. A more restrained approach might have preserved the poignancy without distraction.
Overall, this is a beautifully written novel that reminds us how love and loss are often intertwined—and how saying goodbye can sometimes be the beginning of something new. Highly recommended for fans of introspective, character-driven fiction.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All comments and opinions are my own.

[Joanna Price · Rating 5 out of 5]

Boo Does it Again

As I write this, tears drying on my face, I feel immense gratitude for Boo Walker's commitment to crafting novels that swell with emotional intelligence. Not all writers ever achieve the ability to weave a mystical spell of connection between readers and story, to create that I-can't-wait-to-get-back-to-that-book urge that makes you consider calling in sick because you just want to keep reading. That's the effect Boo Walker's novels have on me.

I do admit, however, being a little turned off at the story's beginning. It seemed to rely a bit heavily on the overused cliches of Woodstock, Haight-Ashbury, etc. I understand it was important to the central story, but it gave me pause. I wondered why the author hadn't conjured up something more original while still conveying the late sixties' vibe.

Even so, you'll notice that it didn't detract from my 5-star rating. The novel picked up from there as the story of the Tills' came to life. And speaking of "life," I was absolutely charmed in discovering how the story was narrated. Not only was it believable, but it underscored the kindness and patience of Bec's persona.

To sum this up, I give this book my highest praise; it's my favorite Boo Walker novel. I now want to go back and reread all of the Red Mountain Chronicles. Well done, Mr . Walker!

[Angela · Rating 5 out of 5]

I think I have found another favorite author! This book gave me vibes of Charles Martin and I loved it! The story has good flow of past and present, easy to follow and know where you are at. Can’t wait to check out more Boo Walker novels.

At Woodstock in 1969, two lost souls with big hearts and boundless dreams see the future and all its possibilities in each other’s eyes. Before the music is even over, Otis is thunderstruck by the liberating Rebecca, so much so that he’s suddenly questioning his attendance at Berkeley and decision to follow in his father’s footsteps as a journalist. When he first sets eyes on the vineyards of Sonoma, where Rebecca is from, the captivating idea of a life in wine further mars his path. Would it be so crazy to chase a dream? Impulsively married, unquestionably devoted, Otis and Rebecca are thirsty to see what happens next—wherever it takes them and no matter how hard it gets.

Over the decades, from Sonoma to the delightfully eccentric community of Red Mountain, Otis and Rebecca fight against all odds to work their way to the top of the wine world. But neither of them could have imagined the darkness to come, or what it will take to find a spark of light once again.

[Jean Mader · Rating 5 out of 5]

Before We Say Goodbye by Boo Walker is a prequel to the Red Mountain Chronicles. The story begins in 1969, when two California teenagers, Otis and Rebecca, fall in love in a bus on its way to Woodstock. And their whole lives open up.

This is a long and very enjoyable book to read. Otis discovers wine country and makes wine his passion. He (and the readers of this book) learn everything about winemaking. Winemaking is like a religion. Readers will “savor” the vast varieties of wine.

Rebecca, a free spirit, keeps Otis and their children anchored as best she can. She finds peace in creating good food and peaceful home.

I found it to be a fascinating read. Over the 40 years of this saga, we see Otis and Rebecca grow from teenagers to older adults. They face many ups and downs together, but stay connected through the terroir of life.

I am looking forward to reading “The Red Mountain Chronicles”.

Thanks to NetGalley and Lake Union Publishing for an advance digital review copy. This is my honest review.

[Donna · Rating 5 out of 5]

Otis Till has long been a favorite character throughout the Red Mountain Series. In Before We Say Goodbye, you vacillate between the early years of Otis Pennington Till and 2011, learning tidbits of his childhood, meeting the love of his life - his hippie princess, and how he became the man known as the Grapefather. The author's gift for storytelling shines throughout this prequel with hard topics - death, grief, failures, living up to others expectations, frustrations, depression, financial threats - each treated with love, dignity, and just the right amount of humor.

Otis is a deeply emotional and passionate man, the type few authors pull off successfully in my opinion, but in the Red Mountain series and especially this book you see Otis at his most vulnerable moments. Each of those moments is treated with respect and love from the author to his character.

I absolutely adore Otis and his many sides: emotional, loving, passionate, curmudgeon, hard-headed/goal oriented, and one of my favorites - mentor. Enjoy!

[Judy Welden · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've been anticipating this book for some time as I love all Boo's books. I recently moved from Gainesville GA to live in an Independent Liiving Community in Fort Myers, FL. Two days before the move I fell and was in tremendous pain. Although I needed surgery for the Compression Fracture I suffered, by wearing a 10# brace I thought I could bypass that. I was in constant pain and hoped that reading "Before We Say Godbye" would help me cope with it better. I can say with a resounding "YES"...it did indeed keep my mind off my pain! How could it not... with such unforgettable characters, a fast moving story that kept me interested the throughout the entire story, all the twists and turns kept my mind totally occupied, enablling me to ignore the constant pain. Having finished the book, I'm stilll in pain. Thinking like many of the characters I determined we are not meant to suffer and need to move forward. It gave me courage to go ahead and have the surgery, which is forthcoming. All thanks to Boo Walker and his best book yet! Judy Welden, author of "An Unstoppable Survivor"