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Whispering Vines
When Alex O’Donnell’s world falls apart, she finds it hard to imagine that a door to a new world will open. Leaving everything she knows behind, Alex moves from her Baltimore apartment to a villa in Italy where she discovers the inherited vineyard she never knew existed and a life of possibilities beyond her hopes and dreams.
Arriving at the villa, Alex is taken aback by the animosity and scorn of the vineyard’s co-owner, Nicolas Giordano. Resentful of Alex’s sudden appearance, Nicolas struggles to maintain his control over his business and his feelings for his new partner.
The discovery of a journal from World War II becomes the tie that binds Alex and Nicolas as they work to secure their future while putting together the pieces of a puzzle from the past. Unlock the hidden secrets within the Whispering Vines.
Arriving at the villa, Alex is taken aback by the animosity and scorn of the vineyard’s co-owner, Nicolas Giordano. Resentful of Alex’s sudden appearance, Nicolas struggles to maintain his control over his business and his feelings for his new partner.
The discovery of a journal from World War II becomes the tie that binds Alex and Nicolas as they work to secure their future while putting together the pieces of a puzzle from the past. Unlock the hidden secrets within the Whispering Vines.
275 pages, Paperback
First published June 15, 2016
4 people are currently reading
47 people want to read
About the author
Amy Schisler
35 books108 followersAmy has been writing novels, children’s books, and devotionals for almost ten years. In her novels, she brings to life characters who jump off the page with their true-to-life personalities and real world problems and concerns. Their lives center around family, friends, and faith. Her stories–though often fraught with peril–champion love, uphold community, and inspire hope. Amy’s writing has been hailed “a verbal masterpiece of art” (author Alexa Jacobs) and “Everything you want in a book” (Amazon).
A former librarian and teacher, she now lives on the Eastern Shore of Maryland with her husband, three daughters, and two dogs.
You may follow Amy online at the following places:
http://amyschislerauthor.com
http://facebook.com/amyschislerauthor
https://www.goodreads.com/amyschisler
https://www.bookbub.com/authors/amy-s...
Twitter @AmySchislerAuth
Instagram @AmySchislerAuthor
A former librarian and teacher, she now lives on the Eastern Shore of Maryland with her husband, three daughters, and two dogs.
You may follow Amy online at the following places:
http://amyschislerauthor.com
http://facebook.com/amyschislerauthor
https://www.goodreads.com/amyschisler
https://www.bookbub.com/authors/amy-s...
Twitter @AmySchislerAuth
Instagram @AmySchislerAuthor
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Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
March 20, 2019
I’m not normally a fan of romance but I absolutely loved this book.
February 24, 2017
I was given a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I was given this book about a year ago and just now picked it up. I regret it took me so long, because I couldn't put it down! This was a great read. I tend to not like "romance" stories, because I never seem to be able to relate to the characters. I could definitely relate to Alex in the story. She felt real to me and I found that quite enjoyable. I also like that there were ties to faith in the story, but not in an in your face type of way. I would definitely recommend this book to others.
I was given this book about a year ago and just now picked it up. I regret it took me so long, because I couldn't put it down! This was a great read. I tend to not like "romance" stories, because I never seem to be able to relate to the characters. I could definitely relate to Alex in the story. She felt real to me and I found that quite enjoyable. I also like that there were ties to faith in the story, but not in an in your face type of way. I would definitely recommend this book to others.
September 11, 2016
I loved that Alex was willing to try new things, to learn about how to make wine and to move to a new country. Amy Schisler creates a story that makes it hard to put down. I started it yesterday and finished it tonight. I liked the added description of art and history of the struggles that Italy went thru during the war. The reading of Isa's journal made you feel her joy and then her pain.
That Alex and Nicholas fall in love was expected, but I really enjoyed their journey to reach that point. The book was a good clean read without vulgar words or torrid sex scenes. Thank you Amy for letting me read this book for you. I would recommend it to anyone who enjoys a good romantic book based in Italy.
That Alex and Nicholas fall in love was expected, but I really enjoyed their journey to reach that point. The book was a good clean read without vulgar words or torrid sex scenes. Thank you Amy for letting me read this book for you. I would recommend it to anyone who enjoys a good romantic book based in Italy.
September 9, 2016
I ordered this book, because my friend, author Amy Schisler wrote it and allowed me to read along as she was writing it. And, though this book is far outside my normal murder and mayhem genre...all I can say is that it is fabulous!
When Isa, the woman whom Alex has been taking care of, passes away, Alex is heartbroken. She is even more surprised when, Isa's attorney asks to speak with her over lunch after the funeral. It seems that Alex's beloved friend, Isa has left Alex her home in Baltimore, and also her half of a vineyard in Italy...
Having been estranged from her mother since the passing of her father and brother, Alex flies to Italy. It is at the vineyard that Alex meets her business partner Nicholas, who is none to happy to meet her...or have her as a business partner. In an attempt to avoid Nicholas, Alex begins to look around the property and discovers an old journal that once belonged to Isa in the barn...but of course, it is written in Italian...
Alex asks Nicholas if he'd be willing to translate the journal...and a friendship begins to blossom...but will Nicholas's fiance' Eva allow the partnership and friendship to continue?
When Isa, the woman whom Alex has been taking care of, passes away, Alex is heartbroken. She is even more surprised when, Isa's attorney asks to speak with her over lunch after the funeral. It seems that Alex's beloved friend, Isa has left Alex her home in Baltimore, and also her half of a vineyard in Italy...
Having been estranged from her mother since the passing of her father and brother, Alex flies to Italy. It is at the vineyard that Alex meets her business partner Nicholas, who is none to happy to meet her...or have her as a business partner. In an attempt to avoid Nicholas, Alex begins to look around the property and discovers an old journal that once belonged to Isa in the barn...but of course, it is written in Italian...
Alex asks Nicholas if he'd be willing to translate the journal...and a friendship begins to blossom...but will Nicholas's fiance' Eva allow the partnership and friendship to continue?
June 30, 2016
Whispering Vines delights the reader in all five senses. You not only enjoy a love story of more than one generation, but also learn about the art of wine making and your sense will smell and taste the delicious aromas from the various Italian dishes described in the book. Visually the landscape comes alive as do scenes both described in Baltimore and Italy. One can hear the whispers among the resistance as they try to prevent further destruction in their village. The overlapping stories among Alex and Nicolas, Isa and Roberto make you want to find out how the story transpires as well as uncover the mystery hidden since WWII.
June 19, 2016
I really enjoyed this book and had a hard time putting it down. There was always something new developing to keep you reading. There was even a pleasant surprise of a connection to some characters in a previous book. It's not important enough that you need to have to read the other books first and it's not a sequel. It's just enough to make you stop and think, 'is that so & so from the other book?' Then go grab the book and look it up. I am definitely looking forward to Ms. Schisler's next book!
May 31, 2016
I could almost taste the wine and see the beautiful Tuscan scenery reading Whispering Vines. Normally romance is not my genre and I'm not usually a fan of books that go back and forth in time, however, Amy Schisler has a great way of telling a great story that is easy to follow and draws you in. There was also enough suspense to keep me reading until sometimes way too late at night. Whispering Vines was a very enjoyable read!
January 15, 2017
I have just finished reading and am not sure whether to laugh or cry or sing with joy. This is an amazing set of love stories intertwining WWII with the present and providing glimpses of history and Italian culture and viniculture, love and loss and family. These characters will remain with me as friends and the places have become destinations I wish to visit. (Actually, I am well familiar with Little Italy and Da Mimmo holds a special place in my heart.) And, BONUS--there are recipes!
April 8, 2016
I loved this book and didn't want to put it down. Rich characters and descriptions. I felt like I was in Italy in the vineyard. While I was reading it I found myself wanting to tell my friends to read it. But I couldn't because I had the honor to read it early! Put your order in now!!
May 8, 2016
I enjoyed this immensely. I like the subtle faith messages. I can unashamedly recommend this book to all my friends and family. I really liked the thread that links these characters to characters in her previous novel. I am looking forward to many years of reading the authors work.
September 12, 2016
I was given a copy of this book for an honest review
Outstanding! I really love "historical romance" books and this one is a very good one indeed. Characters are electric and the plot is the same
Outstanding! I really love "historical romance" books and this one is a very good one indeed. Characters are electric and the plot is the same
July 4, 2016
Most enjoyable read - loved the ending...Amy did it again!
November 4, 2023
I really enjoyed this book, especially the Christian values sprinkled throughout its entirety. The story line was intriguing, felt very real, and in some cases, relatable. Also, I could practically smell all of the Italian food and wine described in this book! Schisler's descriptions of the winemaking process and business were interesting as I knew nothing about them prior to reading. Overall, I found this book to be lighthearted, yet serious, and simple, yet complex.
However, two aspects of the book slightly confused me: (1) Alex's brother being a tech genius and being murdered by a hit man hired by the Vice President. This seemed to have came out of nowhere and was only discussed around two or three short times throughout the book. (2) Alex pretending to be a reporter when she first arrived at Belle Uve. The descriptions of her act seemed to be a big deal and a big part of the story, but after Nicola found out who she was, it was hardly mentioned again.
However, two aspects of the book slightly confused me: (1) Alex's brother being a tech genius and being murdered by a hit man hired by the Vice President. This seemed to have came out of nowhere and was only discussed around two or three short times throughout the book. (2) Alex pretending to be a reporter when she first arrived at Belle Uve. The descriptions of her act seemed to be a big deal and a big part of the story, but after Nicola found out who she was, it was hardly mentioned again.
January 31, 2022
This is not a book I would pick for myself. My daughter-in-law gave it to me. Once I started reading it, I could not put it down. It was filled with romance, intrigue and a little bit of history. It really made me want to visit Italy. The first novel I have ever read was by Pearl S. Buck, I was ten and of course I wanted to visit China
August 11, 2024
A Catholic romance set at an Italian vineyard? Was there ever a book more perfectly suited for me?
This is the first book I read by this author and thoroughly enjoyed the story of Alex and Nicolas. When college graduate Alex befriends an elderly woman, she has no idea how much her life will change. Between a budding romance, the gift of a lifetime, and the discovery of a special diary, Alex embraces her new life and is finally able to confront the demons from her past. This book is beautifully written and full of sweet moments and tantalizing Italian recipes.
This is the first book I read by this author and thoroughly enjoyed the story of Alex and Nicolas. When college graduate Alex befriends an elderly woman, she has no idea how much her life will change. Between a budding romance, the gift of a lifetime, and the discovery of a special diary, Alex embraces her new life and is finally able to confront the demons from her past. This book is beautifully written and full of sweet moments and tantalizing Italian recipes.
September 21, 2021
I loved the author's magic of interweaving the present to the past to make this novel a page turner from start to finish. The characters quickly became my friends and the setting became so real that it was hard not to smell the fresh soil in the vineyard. Kudos to Amy Schisler!
March 21, 2023
This was such a good book and the Author did such an amazing job of pulling her readers into the story as if we were right there. Can't wait to start The Good Wine next and see where things lead next.
February 20, 2024
It was a sweet story. If you like romances and historical fiction you will love it. It was a bit too predictable for me and as with many romances, it takes the characters way too long to finally admit they are in love. Just get on with it already!!!
December 5, 2019
Great book. I loved seeing the country side of Italy.
September 6, 2021
Super !
January 31, 2024
I thoroughly enjoyed this story.
April 27, 2016
Review by Serious Reading
Whispering Vines is a captivating story written by Amy Schisler, an award-winning author who has already published three novels and one children’s book. She also has a professional blog that has a large number of readers from all across the globe. Before venturing into the writing industry, she used to work as a librarian and a teacher. Currently, she lives with her husband and three daughters in the Eastern Shore of Maryland.
Alex O Donnell is faced with a series of challenges that force her to relocate from her Baltimore apartment to a villa in Italy. It is in this new home that she discovers that there is a vineyard under her name. This realization brings back to life her aspirations, hopes, and dreams. She decides to visit the vineyard only to be welcomed by a stern co-owner of the vineyard, Nicolas Giordano. However, their interaction changes his personality completely. Nicholas starts to fall in love with Alex. He has to regain his control over the business and at the same time ensure he does now reveal his true feelings for Alex. All that changes when they come across a journal from World War II that encourages them to work together to grow the business and trace their roots.
Whispering Vines is a well-written story whose characters have unique personalities. They both overcome every challenge that they come across to not only establish a family but also to understand their origin. More importantly, the characters perfectly suit the story and the message that the author wants to convey to the world. The heartbreaking, endearing, charming, and romantic scenes will surely inveigle you to keep reading. The author also went an extra mile to create fast-paced scenes that allows one to follow the main character, Alex, as she relocates to Italy and meets her lover.
http://seriousreading.com/book-review...
Whispering Vines is a captivating story written by Amy Schisler, an award-winning author who has already published three novels and one children’s book. She also has a professional blog that has a large number of readers from all across the globe. Before venturing into the writing industry, she used to work as a librarian and a teacher. Currently, she lives with her husband and three daughters in the Eastern Shore of Maryland.
Alex O Donnell is faced with a series of challenges that force her to relocate from her Baltimore apartment to a villa in Italy. It is in this new home that she discovers that there is a vineyard under her name. This realization brings back to life her aspirations, hopes, and dreams. She decides to visit the vineyard only to be welcomed by a stern co-owner of the vineyard, Nicolas Giordano. However, their interaction changes his personality completely. Nicholas starts to fall in love with Alex. He has to regain his control over the business and at the same time ensure he does now reveal his true feelings for Alex. All that changes when they come across a journal from World War II that encourages them to work together to grow the business and trace their roots.
Whispering Vines is a well-written story whose characters have unique personalities. They both overcome every challenge that they come across to not only establish a family but also to understand their origin. More importantly, the characters perfectly suit the story and the message that the author wants to convey to the world. The heartbreaking, endearing, charming, and romantic scenes will surely inveigle you to keep reading. The author also went an extra mile to create fast-paced scenes that allows one to follow the main character, Alex, as she relocates to Italy and meets her lover.
http://seriousreading.com/book-review...
September 13, 2016
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a review.
Absolutely loved this book. It is filled with so much history on Italy and how true love can come at the most unexpected place & time. The characters are wonderfully written and the story line is very well thought out.
Because of the death of a woman who felt more like a mother than her own, Alex has found herself with a home in the U.S. and also owning half a vineyard in Italy. As she travels to Italy to find out what exactly she has inherited, she meets up with Nicholas who is the other half-owner. As the story progresses both characters grow to confident individuals who also find that they need each other. Without giving too much away, this is a story that deserves to be read. Can't wait to read more of this author's work.
Absolutely loved this book. It is filled with so much history on Italy and how true love can come at the most unexpected place & time. The characters are wonderfully written and the story line is very well thought out.
Because of the death of a woman who felt more like a mother than her own, Alex has found herself with a home in the U.S. and also owning half a vineyard in Italy. As she travels to Italy to find out what exactly she has inherited, she meets up with Nicholas who is the other half-owner. As the story progresses both characters grow to confident individuals who also find that they need each other. Without giving too much away, this is a story that deserves to be read. Can't wait to read more of this author's work.
April 19, 2016
What starts out as a drowsily pleasant romance set in the wine country of Northern Italy, speeds up in the second half to include a dual time line plot between present day and WWII with a mystery straight out of "Monuments Men." Alex, our young heroine, has been willed half of a vineyard in the Valpolicella by the Signora, an elderly lady she works for in Baltimore who becomes her friend. Sparks are destined to fly when she meets the other owner, the chocolate brown-eyed Nicolas. The beginning reminded me a little of the old Harlequin romances but with more history and intellect and less (actually no) bodice-ripping. While passion builds, Alex keeps it classy. Can she learn the business, achieve a family reconciliation and win Nicolas's heart in the process? Her experiences begin to parallel the Signora's as a young girl when she accidentally uncovers her older friend's journal on the estate. We learn a little about WW II from the Italian perspective, a little art history and some great recipes at the end. A fun quick read, add this one to your summer beach bag, maybe with a nice bottle of rose.
I received this novel in exchange for an honest review. (less)
I received this novel in exchange for an honest review. (less)
March 21, 2016
This story captivated me from the cover alone, and from page one I was not disappointed. Schisler’s writing is a verbal masterpiece of art. Her words painted a beautiful world in which I could close my eyes and be swept away to. She weaves in the lives of two women, generations apart, and brings them together in the beauty and heartbreak tale that is love and loss. The details she brings to the page makes me ache to see the lands that she describes for myself, as she describes them so spectacularly. The characters bring life to the book, and each of them are so perfectly suited to bring personality and charm to the page. It’s heartbreaking, lovely, romantic, sweet, endearing, and charming. This is a book to get lost in.
Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews