What do you think?
Rate this book
In Vino Veritas #5
Wonderland
I left Vermont on the most painful day of my life and swore I’d never go back. Meadows Park–the shuttered amusement park that’s been in my family for generations–is the home of all my finest and worst memories. They all star Peter Landry–the best friend I ever had, and the only guy I’ve ever loved.
But then my eccentric grandfather buried two million dollars on the property and couldn’t remember where.
So I’m back, and asking Peter for help. He’s an Ivy League lawyer now. Still gorgeous, and able to gut me with a single smile. And I’m still a disappointment, living in the city and washing dishes to get by. As soon as we strike off down the first sunlit path, the Meadows Park magic begins to fill my heart with yearning, lust, and most dangerous of all—dreams.
I’m secretly relieved each time the day ends, leaving us empty-handed. I know it’s wrong—without that money, we could lose the park.
But if I find the treasure, I lose the guy.
But then my eccentric grandfather buried two million dollars on the property and couldn’t remember where.
So I’m back, and asking Peter for help. He’s an Ivy League lawyer now. Still gorgeous, and able to gut me with a single smile. And I’m still a disappointment, living in the city and washing dishes to get by. As soon as we strike off down the first sunlit path, the Meadows Park magic begins to fill my heart with yearning, lust, and most dangerous of all—dreams.
I’m secretly relieved each time the day ends, leaving us empty-handed. I know it’s wrong—without that money, we could lose the park.
But if I find the treasure, I lose the guy.
232 pages, Paperback
First published September 22, 2022
118 people are currently reading
2218 people want to read
About the author
Rachel Ember
28 books202 followersRachel was born and raised in the midwest USA, and now lives there voluntarily, a life choice she only sometimes questions. On the small farm her menagerie calls home, she happily juggles her voracious reading and writing habits with caring for her kids and pets.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 106 reviews
January 12, 2023
This was alright. Decent, not great. Second chance romances are very hit or miss for me, and this time it was a miss.
![Profile Image for Megan [At The Cottage].](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fi.gr-assets.com%2Fimages%2FS%2Fcompressed.photo.goodreads.com%2Fusers%2F1634561405i%2F25103878._UY200_CR50%2C0%2C200%2C200_.jpg&w=128&q=75)
March 30, 2024
MM Romance
Second Chance
3.5 Stars ⭐️
🎧Audiobook Reread 2024
🎵Narrated by Stephen Dexter and Rudy Sanda🎵
Despite this not being one of my favorites, I liked it enough to give it another go when I saw Stephen Dexter was narrating it. I like Stephen’s deep voice and I especially liked it for Riley who had a bit of a temper and was a bit grumpy. I had never listened to Rudy before but I liked his voice for Peter and would listen to him again. However, I didn’t like the way he voiced Riley’s voice because he couldn’t give it that deep cadence it needed. Also, does Rudy Sanda have more than one alias he uses to narrate books because he sounded so familiar. I could never put my finger on it but I’ve definitely heard that voice before just not with that name. I googled it but never found any answers.
I still stand by the fact that I needed more than the book gave me but I love the setting of this book so much. I don’t know what it is about an abandoned amusement park but I would have loved that when I was young. When I was a kid we lived on a hill and there were trails in the back that led to treehouses and sometimes it felt kind of creepy because it was obvious they had been abandoned but other times it felt kind of magical when my brother and I would go to this place no one else seemed to know about. We’d bring snacks from home and just chill there and when we got a puppy a few years later, he’d follow us out there to hang out in this place that had become ours. On the way to these treehouses, one of our neighbors had this rope swing his grandchildren used long ago but he kept it up for us to use. My brother was always afraid to use it but I loved flying through the trees and this book has a lot of those kind of memories weaved through it of Riley and Peter’s time spent in Wonderland as kids and now adults. It’s definitely the reason why I had no trouble rereading this via audiobook because it exudes such a whimsical feeling when read and I enjoy that.
==================
Original Review Below
==================
This is one of those childhood friends to lovers stories where something happens that breaks them up and in this one 8 years goes by until they are reunited. I’m really having a love affair with these kinds of books right now but I prefer the angsty ones and while this has its moments, I just couldn’t quite get 100% on board with their relationship. I needed a prologue that showed the past and/or more relationship development in the present. There were a lot of references to the past but I just needed more and I understand that it’s more of a me issue because I live for the angst and this is definitely not meant to be that kind of book.
What I absolutely LOVED about this book though was the setting. There was something quite magical and whimsical about the theme park this takes place in. The theme park has seen better days but the memories both boys have of their summers spent there is what makes this book sing. The only part of the park that is in working order in the present is the greenhouse and I absolutely adored Lemon. The park had many secrets within it that come to light and I really enjoyed learning its secrets. I also enjoyed Grandpa Gene.
As for Riley and Peter, I liked them as a couple and thought they complimented each other well but I just wanted more. When they reunite after the 8 years, it’s clear they still have feelings for each other but there was more of them getting off together than talking through what happened. I kind of understood because they were 26 year olds but books like this hit harder when it’s about more than just the physical no matter how hot the scenes were. However, once they do talk, things get pretty emotional and it made me quite teary eyed because they really do love each other and their lives are better with the other in it.
Bottom line is, I liked this but I wanted more angst and that is definitely a me problem and not the book.
Second Chance
3.5 Stars ⭐️
🎧Audiobook Reread 2024
🎵Narrated by Stephen Dexter and Rudy Sanda🎵
Despite this not being one of my favorites, I liked it enough to give it another go when I saw Stephen Dexter was narrating it. I like Stephen’s deep voice and I especially liked it for Riley who had a bit of a temper and was a bit grumpy. I had never listened to Rudy before but I liked his voice for Peter and would listen to him again. However, I didn’t like the way he voiced Riley’s voice because he couldn’t give it that deep cadence it needed. Also, does Rudy Sanda have more than one alias he uses to narrate books because he sounded so familiar. I could never put my finger on it but I’ve definitely heard that voice before just not with that name. I googled it but never found any answers.
I still stand by the fact that I needed more than the book gave me but I love the setting of this book so much. I don’t know what it is about an abandoned amusement park but I would have loved that when I was young. When I was a kid we lived on a hill and there were trails in the back that led to treehouses and sometimes it felt kind of creepy because it was obvious they had been abandoned but other times it felt kind of magical when my brother and I would go to this place no one else seemed to know about. We’d bring snacks from home and just chill there and when we got a puppy a few years later, he’d follow us out there to hang out in this place that had become ours. On the way to these treehouses, one of our neighbors had this rope swing his grandchildren used long ago but he kept it up for us to use. My brother was always afraid to use it but I loved flying through the trees and this book has a lot of those kind of memories weaved through it of Riley and Peter’s time spent in Wonderland as kids and now adults. It’s definitely the reason why I had no trouble rereading this via audiobook because it exudes such a whimsical feeling when read and I enjoy that.
==================
Original Review Below
==================
This is one of those childhood friends to lovers stories where something happens that breaks them up and in this one 8 years goes by until they are reunited. I’m really having a love affair with these kinds of books right now but I prefer the angsty ones and while this has its moments, I just couldn’t quite get 100% on board with their relationship. I needed a prologue that showed the past and/or more relationship development in the present. There were a lot of references to the past but I just needed more and I understand that it’s more of a me issue because I live for the angst and this is definitely not meant to be that kind of book.
What I absolutely LOVED about this book though was the setting. There was something quite magical and whimsical about the theme park this takes place in. The theme park has seen better days but the memories both boys have of their summers spent there is what makes this book sing. The only part of the park that is in working order in the present is the greenhouse and I absolutely adored Lemon. The park had many secrets within it that come to light and I really enjoyed learning its secrets. I also enjoyed Grandpa Gene.
As for Riley and Peter, I liked them as a couple and thought they complimented each other well but I just wanted more. When they reunite after the 8 years, it’s clear they still have feelings for each other but there was more of them getting off together than talking through what happened. I kind of understood because they were 26 year olds but books like this hit harder when it’s about more than just the physical no matter how hot the scenes were. However, once they do talk, things get pretty emotional and it made me quite teary eyed because they really do love each other and their lives are better with the other in it.
Bottom line is, I liked this but I wanted more angst and that is definitely a me problem and not the book.
dnf
November 6, 2022dnf 43%
September 10, 2022
Another gorgeous entry in the latest series of expanded World of True North books.
Here we get a second chance romance between two likable young men who had a falling out eight years earlier and who are brought back together under somewhat strained circumstances.
We've briefly met Peter in Aaron's book, but we only got a glimpse of the man he was projecting - Harvard graduate lawyer, assured and direct. But that's not even remotely close to the truth and Rachel Ember slowly peels back the insecurities and fears that are shaping Peter's edges as the book goes on.
Riley Meadows is a beautifully crafted character, he's been running away from most things his whole life apart from the summers he spent with his grandfather and a younger Peter as they explored the magical ruins of the old amusement park which belongs to the Meadows family.
The setting is as much a part of this romance as the relationship between the two men as they carefully navigate their way through the challenges of Riley's grandfather's eccentric behaviour, fears about the future of the park, and the feelings that never went away.
I could picture the crumbling and faded grandeur of this once bustling amusement park so clearly, the giant tortoise Lemon was a wonderful addition to the story, his personality created in few words but incredibly vivid.
Gene, Riley's grandfather, is a wonderful man, a bit prickly, a bit sad at the sad state of the park, a bit stubborn and very definitely eccentric, so much so that he's buried his $2m lottery winnings somewhere in the grounds but can't remember where!
As the narrative follows Riley and Peter's search for the money, the reader also gets to follow them on a journey of reconnection, of hard truths, of love and, ultimately, of a new future together.
#ARC kindly received from the author via Sarina Bowen's Heart Eyes Press in return for an honest and unbiased review.
Here we get a second chance romance between two likable young men who had a falling out eight years earlier and who are brought back together under somewhat strained circumstances.
We've briefly met Peter in Aaron's book, but we only got a glimpse of the man he was projecting - Harvard graduate lawyer, assured and direct. But that's not even remotely close to the truth and Rachel Ember slowly peels back the insecurities and fears that are shaping Peter's edges as the book goes on.
Riley Meadows is a beautifully crafted character, he's been running away from most things his whole life apart from the summers he spent with his grandfather and a younger Peter as they explored the magical ruins of the old amusement park which belongs to the Meadows family.
The setting is as much a part of this romance as the relationship between the two men as they carefully navigate their way through the challenges of Riley's grandfather's eccentric behaviour, fears about the future of the park, and the feelings that never went away.
I could picture the crumbling and faded grandeur of this once bustling amusement park so clearly, the giant tortoise Lemon was a wonderful addition to the story, his personality created in few words but incredibly vivid.
Gene, Riley's grandfather, is a wonderful man, a bit prickly, a bit sad at the sad state of the park, a bit stubborn and very definitely eccentric, so much so that he's buried his $2m lottery winnings somewhere in the grounds but can't remember where!
As the narrative follows Riley and Peter's search for the money, the reader also gets to follow them on a journey of reconnection, of hard truths, of love and, ultimately, of a new future together.
#ARC kindly received from the author via Sarina Bowen's Heart Eyes Press in return for an honest and unbiased review.
September 27, 2022
This was such a sweet, romantic story. I have not read the other books in this series and there was no problem for me to follow along. Other characters from other books are in this one but it didn’t feel like I needed to know their story to read this book.
I loved both Peter and Riley. They are characters that were meant to be and after 8 years apart it made perfect sense for them to be drawn together again. I love these types of stories, when there is young love that goes wrong and they are reunited. They were just beautiful together.
The setting is magical, a run down theme park with a tortoise named Lemon! So cute! There is little to no angst and the relationship is the main focus. The book flowed easily. I wasn’t blown away enough to give it 5 stars but I did enjoy it a lot!
I loved both Peter and Riley. They are characters that were meant to be and after 8 years apart it made perfect sense for them to be drawn together again. I love these types of stories, when there is young love that goes wrong and they are reunited. They were just beautiful together.
The setting is magical, a run down theme park with a tortoise named Lemon! So cute! There is little to no angst and the relationship is the main focus. The book flowed easily. I wasn’t blown away enough to give it 5 stars but I did enjoy it a lot!
January 20, 2023
Hunting for treasure
with your true love shouldn’t be
this dull. It’s not hot.
with your true love shouldn’t be
this dull. It’s not hot.
September 21, 2022
Wonderland was a sweet second chance , childhood friends to lovers romance. Since they were kids Riley and Peter had a bond like no other. Their friendship was everything to them, so when it turned out they both realized they were attracted to each other as well, it seemed natural for them to progress to the physical. But we all know teenage romances don't always last and after an unfortunate accident, everything came crashing down. Riley, the hot head of the couple, takes off from his beloved Meadows Park in Burlington, Vermont back home to New York leaving a devastated Peter behind. Not only that, but all attempts at communication from Peter go unanswered. Peter heads off to college in Boston and then onto LA and that's that. And so it stays, until coincidentally both men end up back where it all started.
I loved the little childhood flashbacks we get while the adult versions of Riley and Peter are slowly getting to know each other again. It was a shame they spent all those years apart, but now they are older and wiser. They think through decisions with a maturity 18 year old boys just do not have yet. Both men have their own reservations, but at the end of the day what really matters is they don't want to lose the other again.
I'm still loving the Vino and Veritas world we are in. I haven't read a bad one yet. It seems I went a bit out of order, so I still have Underdog and then Dauntless left. Based on what I've seen of their MCs so far, I can't wait to see what those authors have in store.
I loved the little childhood flashbacks we get while the adult versions of Riley and Peter are slowly getting to know each other again. It was a shame they spent all those years apart, but now they are older and wiser. They think through decisions with a maturity 18 year old boys just do not have yet. Both men have their own reservations, but at the end of the day what really matters is they don't want to lose the other again.
I'm still loving the Vino and Veritas world we are in. I haven't read a bad one yet. It seems I went a bit out of order, so I still have Underdog and then Dauntless left. Based on what I've seen of their MCs so far, I can't wait to see what those authors have in store.
September 18, 2022
Honestly, I cried, multiple times. First love, a scared kid, and heartbreak pulled these two apart for 8 years.
They had such a special friendship and relationship when they were young. Inseparable every summer. Roaming free amongst the abandoned rides of Riley’s grandfather's closed Park. It was magical. But one night changed everything.
Neither have really forgotten, or have fully moved on, but didn’t really realize how much it held them back until they both found themselves back in Burlington, Vermont. They are drawn to one another, but fear and past hurt continue to play a part in keeping them from being able to move forward. Thankfully a treasure hunt gives them the opportunity to reconnect and work through those feelings.
Rachel writes such a beautiful story. I’ve only read a few of her novels, and I entirely regret not reading more of them. I’m especially glad she was a part of this adventure back into the world of In Vino Veritas.
They had such a special friendship and relationship when they were young. Inseparable every summer. Roaming free amongst the abandoned rides of Riley’s grandfather's closed Park. It was magical. But one night changed everything.
Neither have really forgotten, or have fully moved on, but didn’t really realize how much it held them back until they both found themselves back in Burlington, Vermont. They are drawn to one another, but fear and past hurt continue to play a part in keeping them from being able to move forward. Thankfully a treasure hunt gives them the opportunity to reconnect and work through those feelings.
Rachel writes such a beautiful story. I’ve only read a few of her novels, and I entirely regret not reading more of them. I’m especially glad she was a part of this adventure back into the world of In Vino Veritas.
September 18, 2022
I'm such a sucker for second-chance romances. I'm even more of a sucker for unique plots, when they work, and Rachel Ember has certainly created a unique story with Wonderland that worked well for me. If I've ever read another romance set in an abandoned amusement park, I've forgotten it.
I loved this sweet, low-angst novel that features a forgetful grandfather, buried treasure, and a giant tortoise.
Part of the Vino and Veritas shared-world series, Wonderland can absolutely be read as a standalone.
I loved this sweet, low-angst novel that features a forgetful grandfather, buried treasure, and a giant tortoise.
Part of the Vino and Veritas shared-world series, Wonderland can absolutely be read as a standalone.
Read
January 3, 2023DNF
May 26, 2022
This book has everything: gorgeous atmosphere, characters you fall in love with, a premise that pulls you in immediately, and a setting so real you feel like you're living in the pages of the book. From the first paragraph, I was fully invested in Riley and Peter and their struggles. By the second chapter, I was just as invested in Lemon, the tortoise, who steals the show every time they step onto the page. Seriously, though--do not miss this read. Peter and Riley's journey together is a beautiful one to behold, and it will stay with you for a long time to come.
May 23, 2022
I’m trying to figure out how to describe what I felt while reading this lyrical, sexy, funny book. It was like the book hugged me, maybe? Or that I just really felt invested in the characters? Or that I just wanted to move in with them? I felt GOOD. I had a smile. It tugged at my heart and I wanted to just keep reading and reading. I’ve never read a book like this or with this premise and I highly recommend you read it stat.
January 2, 2023
3.75 stars rounded up
The second-chance romance works (yes, sure, the apology scene is quick, but I'm in forgiving mood 😜 ). I believe that Riley and Peter really still care for one another. Yes, Riley were silly for running away like that - but they were teenagers. I guess the emotions were really high and well, they did stupid things.
However, what charmed me more about this novel is the attempt to save the park. Oh, how I loved that. That scene when Riley and Peter finally found () that became their miracle, it got my eyes all teary.
The second-chance romance works (yes, sure, the apology scene is quick, but I'm in forgiving mood 😜 ). I believe that Riley and Peter really still care for one another. Yes, Riley were silly for running away like that - but they were teenagers. I guess the emotions were really high and well, they did stupid things.
However, what charmed me more about this novel is the attempt to save the park. Oh, how I loved that. That scene when Riley and Peter finally found () that became their miracle, it got my eyes all teary.
September 17, 2022
5 Stars
I absolutely loved this story. Second chances is one of my favorite tropes and I absolutely adored both Peter and Riley.
I loved watching them work together and discover that they still very much loved one another. Their relationship wasn’t perfect, they fought and butted heads, but that made them and their story all the more real.
This story featured some great secondary characters, as well. I wasn’t so sure about Riley’s grandpa, Gene, at first, but he turned out to be great. I also loved getting to catch up with some of the other regulars of Vino & Veritas.
This story was well-written and nicely paced. Riley and Peter had amazing chemistry and they were super sexy together. This was an enjoyable read that I can’t recommend enough!
* Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure, a review wasn't a requirement. *
I absolutely loved this story. Second chances is one of my favorite tropes and I absolutely adored both Peter and Riley.
I loved watching them work together and discover that they still very much loved one another. Their relationship wasn’t perfect, they fought and butted heads, but that made them and their story all the more real.
This story featured some great secondary characters, as well. I wasn’t so sure about Riley’s grandpa, Gene, at first, but he turned out to be great. I also loved getting to catch up with some of the other regulars of Vino & Veritas.
This story was well-written and nicely paced. Riley and Peter had amazing chemistry and they were super sexy together. This was an enjoyable read that I can’t recommend enough!
* Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure, a review wasn't a requirement. *
October 14, 2022
A Joyfully Jay review.
4 stars
Wonderland by Rachel Ember is part of the multi-author In Vino Veritas collection of books, a set of stories that feature the wine bar/bookstore in Burlington, and a follow up to the original Vino and Veritas collection. This one stands alone quite well, and while the guys hang out at V&V on occasion and there are pretty clearly some characters from the other books who show up here, I had no problem reading this one, even not being familiar with all the various side characters.
I have enjoyed Ember’s work in the past, and this sort of crazy set up drew my attention to this book. The idea of this two million dollars hidden somewhere in an abandoned amusement park is just one of those original storylines that you don’t see too often. I think Ember really does a nice job with this aspect of the story. The search gives Riley and Peter a chance to reconnect and gives them a reason to be together day after day as they look for the money. But it also gives a lovely sense of nostalgia to the story, both in the near past as Riley and Peter share their memories of playing at the abandoned Park, but also the older history as we learn about the Park in its full glory and what it meant to those that visited.
Read Jay’s review in its entirety here.
4 stars
Wonderland by Rachel Ember is part of the multi-author In Vino Veritas collection of books, a set of stories that feature the wine bar/bookstore in Burlington, and a follow up to the original Vino and Veritas collection. This one stands alone quite well, and while the guys hang out at V&V on occasion and there are pretty clearly some characters from the other books who show up here, I had no problem reading this one, even not being familiar with all the various side characters.
I have enjoyed Ember’s work in the past, and this sort of crazy set up drew my attention to this book. The idea of this two million dollars hidden somewhere in an abandoned amusement park is just one of those original storylines that you don’t see too often. I think Ember really does a nice job with this aspect of the story. The search gives Riley and Peter a chance to reconnect and gives them a reason to be together day after day as they look for the money. But it also gives a lovely sense of nostalgia to the story, both in the near past as Riley and Peter share their memories of playing at the abandoned Park, but also the older history as we learn about the Park in its full glory and what it meant to those that visited.
Read Jay’s review in its entirety here.
November 4, 2022
Second chance romance and mystery....
The task?... find the two million dollars Granddad buried, but he doesn't remember where !
Riley, tall, broad shoulders, bearded with dark hair,
is back at Meadows Park to help Gene, his granddad.
Peter, 26, slim, tall, golden hair, a lawyer,
was Riley's BFF when they were kids.
Now the two old friends are back and will be working together on a project. Granddad can't pay the taxes due on the park. Everyone likes that area, and it used to be a lively and fun place.
Our guys get reacquainted and realize they still care for each other, even after eight years.
This is interesting and fun to see them chase around to find the money.
Their sexy times are steamy and hot with firsts, too.
Grandpa is mysterious at times, and doesn't tell the whole story.
We get curious folks, a huge tortoise, and discoveries.
ENJOY !
======
The task?... find the two million dollars Granddad buried, but he doesn't remember where !
Riley, tall, broad shoulders, bearded with dark hair,
is back at Meadows Park to help Gene, his granddad.
Peter, 26, slim, tall, golden hair, a lawyer,
was Riley's BFF when they were kids.
Now the two old friends are back and will be working together on a project. Granddad can't pay the taxes due on the park. Everyone likes that area, and it used to be a lively and fun place.
Our guys get reacquainted and realize they still care for each other, even after eight years.
This is interesting and fun to see them chase around to find the money.
Their sexy times are steamy and hot with firsts, too.
Grandpa is mysterious at times, and doesn't tell the whole story.
We get curious folks, a huge tortoise, and discoveries.
ENJOY !
======
October 11, 2022
3.5 stars
What an emotional ride this was. But such an enjoyable one. This book made me feel so many feelings, but I appreciated each and every one of them. My two favourite tropes in books are second chance and friends to lovers, so I was served with this book. And I adored how both of these tropes were done in this book, it was just so lovely to me. This was a super enjoyable read and I’m I ended up really enjoying it.
I received an arc of this book and this is my honest opinion
What an emotional ride this was. But such an enjoyable one. This book made me feel so many feelings, but I appreciated each and every one of them. My two favourite tropes in books are second chance and friends to lovers, so I was served with this book. And I adored how both of these tropes were done in this book, it was just so lovely to me. This was a super enjoyable read and I’m I ended up really enjoying it.
I received an arc of this book and this is my honest opinion
September 22, 2022
There’s something special about a well done second chance romance, and Wonderland was exceptionally good when it comes to that. Part of the True North universe spin-off series, In Vino Veritas, Wonderland features a little bit of character overlap but reads just as well as a standalone. I definitely was intrigued to learn more about Peter when he first appeared as a secondary character in another of the books from the series. Even so, I could not have predicted just how much this story would capture my attention and heart.
First things first, I absolutely loved the setting of Wonderland. I loved the idea of a family-run amusement park being revitalized. It was original and such a fun and intriguing setting. I loved the fond memories that so many townspeople carried for Meadows Park, and I especially loved hearing about and experiencing all the memories it held for Peter, Riley, and Riley’s grandfather Gene. The writing captured and portrayed such a wide splay of emotions that I felt transported and completely caught up in the story. Honestly, even taking away the romance portion of the story, the book and plot were incredibly memorable- especially as Riley and Peter pulled together to try and save Gene’s property.
And then there’s the romance. Peter and Riley’s natural connection was undeniable from the start. I really liked seeing these two fall back in love, explore fond memories, and heal their past hurts. While the easy chemistry made it clear these two belonged together, I liked that they worked for their happily-ever-after and I really liked seeing their bond strengthen over the course of the book.
If you are looking for a good read to get swept away in, I’d highly recommend Wonderland.
*eARC received via Heart Eyes Press. The PA, publisher, and author had no influence over this review*
First things first, I absolutely loved the setting of Wonderland. I loved the idea of a family-run amusement park being revitalized. It was original and such a fun and intriguing setting. I loved the fond memories that so many townspeople carried for Meadows Park, and I especially loved hearing about and experiencing all the memories it held for Peter, Riley, and Riley’s grandfather Gene. The writing captured and portrayed such a wide splay of emotions that I felt transported and completely caught up in the story. Honestly, even taking away the romance portion of the story, the book and plot were incredibly memorable- especially as Riley and Peter pulled together to try and save Gene’s property.
And then there’s the romance. Peter and Riley’s natural connection was undeniable from the start. I really liked seeing these two fall back in love, explore fond memories, and heal their past hurts. While the easy chemistry made it clear these two belonged together, I liked that they worked for their happily-ever-after and I really liked seeing their bond strengthen over the course of the book.
If you are looking for a good read to get swept away in, I’d highly recommend Wonderland.
*eARC received via Heart Eyes Press. The PA, publisher, and author had no influence over this review*
September 19, 2022
I received an ARC of this book in return for my honest opinion.
A wonderful story with lively characters who connect in a meaningful way through a shared history, passionate chemistry and a quest to save a family legacy.
Thoroughly enjoyable with just enough tension to leave the reader on the edge of our seat.
A wonderful story with lively characters who connect in a meaningful way through a shared history, passionate chemistry and a quest to save a family legacy.
Thoroughly enjoyable with just enough tension to leave the reader on the edge of our seat.
September 26, 2022
Who knew treasure hunts could be so fulfilling. Wonderland had me in literal tears. This edition to In V&V definitely was one of the more emotional reads. Peter and Riley's bond was an unstoppable force, one distance and time couldn't falter. I really loved their story! It was one filled with loss, insecurities of the past, second chances and true love.
May 26, 2022
Wonderland is like eating your favorite dessert, every scene is simply delicious. Rachel fills the chapters with beautiful visuals and smart dialogue. Every single word pulls you more and more into the story and more and more in love with the characters. Peter and Riley's longing for each other is palpable and when they give in... *fireworks*. Oh and Grandpa Gene is a total scene-stealer. This second chance story is sweet perfection.
September 24, 2022
A bit of (predictable) mystery, but I liked the internal angst but that that didn't keep them apart.
Truth telling had to be spilt. Great tortoise. Lots of help at the end.
One more to go.
Truth telling had to be spilt. Great tortoise. Lots of help at the end.
One more to go.
September 22, 2022
4.5
Wonderland truly deserves gold for having the most unique premise in this series! This story revolves around Peter (Aaron's friend from law school that we meet in Counterpoint) and Riley Meadows. Riley's grandpa who was his most stable and caring family member growing up was best friends with Peter's uncle so the two spent many a summer together when they were younger on the land that Grandpa Meadows owned. It was home to an old amusement park that had been closed down for many years even at that point but it didn't stop the two from exploring every inch and using the land as their personal playground. Naturally the two became best friends and from there, their relationship progressed into something more and they eventually experienced quite a few firsts together.
Fast forward about ten years and the two are thrown together again after not having any contact for YEARS. After a falling out/injury the two parted ways, never planning on seeing each other again. Because of how special their relationship had been in the past, it was no surprise to me when they immediately felt that old sizzle during their first meeting. Sure, part of it was anger and confusion on Peter's part from not knowing what even happened to cause the rift in the first place but mostly it was purely their old attraction.
In a wild turn of events Riley finds out that his grandpa.....misplaced...something, LOL and the two band together like old times to help him find it. That honestly was my favorite part. Just those two, "forced" together trying to do this very important thing for Grandpa Meadows, back in a place that meant SO much to the both of them. I loved seeing them talk about what went wrong with that last argument they had in the past and how they still meant so much to each other, even after all these years. I am such a sucker to childhood-friends-turned-lovers, especially if a second chance romance is also thrown in the mix. SUCH a good story and I really really enjoyed every minute. AND LEMON!!!
Huge thanks to Heart Eyes Press for allowing me to listen to an ALC in exchange for my honest review!♥
For more of my reviews, please visit:
Wonderland truly deserves gold for having the most unique premise in this series! This story revolves around Peter (Aaron's friend from law school that we meet in Counterpoint) and Riley Meadows. Riley's grandpa who was his most stable and caring family member growing up was best friends with Peter's uncle so the two spent many a summer together when they were younger on the land that Grandpa Meadows owned. It was home to an old amusement park that had been closed down for many years even at that point but it didn't stop the two from exploring every inch and using the land as their personal playground. Naturally the two became best friends and from there, their relationship progressed into something more and they eventually experienced quite a few firsts together.
Fast forward about ten years and the two are thrown together again after not having any contact for YEARS. After a falling out/injury the two parted ways, never planning on seeing each other again. Because of how special their relationship had been in the past, it was no surprise to me when they immediately felt that old sizzle during their first meeting. Sure, part of it was anger and confusion on Peter's part from not knowing what even happened to cause the rift in the first place but mostly it was purely their old attraction.
In a wild turn of events Riley finds out that his grandpa.....misplaced...something, LOL and the two band together like old times to help him find it. That honestly was my favorite part. Just those two, "forced" together trying to do this very important thing for Grandpa Meadows, back in a place that meant SO much to the both of them. I loved seeing them talk about what went wrong with that last argument they had in the past and how they still meant so much to each other, even after all these years. I am such a sucker to childhood-friends-turned-lovers, especially if a second chance romance is also thrown in the mix. SUCH a good story and I really really enjoyed every minute. AND LEMON!!!
Huge thanks to Heart Eyes Press for allowing me to listen to an ALC in exchange for my honest review!♥
For more of my reviews, please visit:
September 21, 2022
~~I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads ~~
This is the fifth book in this series and I would recommend them all - and do go and catch up on the original Vino e Veritas collection because every book adds to the wonderful group of people living in Burlington, Vermont.
Riley is back in town, and finds that his grandfather has more than just health problems - he has forgotten where he hid his lottery win, and the tax man is not going to wait much longer. Already nervous of being back he now finds out that Peter, the very reason he's been staying away is also back.
I loved finding out about these two guys and how their relationship as youngsters involved enjoying the crazy of Meadows Park run by his grandparents. It was key to understanding how hard they were prepared to work to help find that money!
It was also fun to see Jeremy and Aaron again - they work at Peter's Aunt's law firm - and we are all hoping that Peter is planning on staying - because both he and Riley deserve their HEA.
Another good installment in this series!
This is the fifth book in this series and I would recommend them all - and do go and catch up on the original Vino e Veritas collection because every book adds to the wonderful group of people living in Burlington, Vermont.
Riley is back in town, and finds that his grandfather has more than just health problems - he has forgotten where he hid his lottery win, and the tax man is not going to wait much longer. Already nervous of being back he now finds out that Peter, the very reason he's been staying away is also back.
I loved finding out about these two guys and how their relationship as youngsters involved enjoying the crazy of Meadows Park run by his grandparents. It was key to understanding how hard they were prepared to work to help find that money!
It was also fun to see Jeremy and Aaron again - they work at Peter's Aunt's law firm - and we are all hoping that Peter is planning on staying - because both he and Riley deserve their HEA.
Another good installment in this series!
October 30, 2022
Wonderland is book 5 in the In Vino Veritas series and I am trying to find the right words to describe this book... because I'm sort of speechless. It was unlike anything I've ever read.
It was just soooo poetic. Like a song almost. The way the author set every scene was trully remarkable. Thinking back on my reading I just get this gooey lovey feeling of peacefulness and beauty.
When Riley remembers how he and Peter used to kiss when they were teenagers... I don't know how to explain it... it felt so intimate, and so true and heartfelt. I absolutely loved it.
I don't know what it is about young love that just gets to me. All the memories Riley and Peter have of their young selves were just perfectly placed in the book. We started off with a bit of mystery about their breakup, and then slowly we understood the why, and the how. Everything just flowed so well. I loved all the bits about Lemon, the turtoise, and Riley's Grandpa, and all the cameos from previous characters in the series. The plot was excellent, there was just enough drama and the intimate scenes between Riley and Peter were perfectly detailed and emotional, exactly how I like it. I just adored this book. And I'm going to have a smile on my face and the sun in my heart when I think about it.
It was just soooo poetic. Like a song almost. The way the author set every scene was trully remarkable. Thinking back on my reading I just get this gooey lovey feeling of peacefulness and beauty.
When Riley remembers how he and Peter used to kiss when they were teenagers... I don't know how to explain it... it felt so intimate, and so true and heartfelt. I absolutely loved it.
I don't know what it is about young love that just gets to me. All the memories Riley and Peter have of their young selves were just perfectly placed in the book. We started off with a bit of mystery about their breakup, and then slowly we understood the why, and the how. Everything just flowed so well. I loved all the bits about Lemon, the turtoise, and Riley's Grandpa, and all the cameos from previous characters in the series. The plot was excellent, there was just enough drama and the intimate scenes between Riley and Peter were perfectly detailed and emotional, exactly how I like it. I just adored this book. And I'm going to have a smile on my face and the sun in my heart when I think about it.
October 5, 2022
**3.5 stars
I enjoyed this one about childhood besties/lovers getting a second chance after an I’ll-fated accident and misunderstanding that separated Peter and Riley for 8 years. It’s sometimes hard to establish a connection when there is a past we weren’t a part of, but I felt it here. What I was missing was Peter and Riley establishing a new connection outside of their past. They do some work, but I felt like the past was handing over them for too long and they fought a lot. I needed more in between moments.
I also wanted more magic—we get to know how magical the old amusement park was for them both and I wanted that captured again as adults. We get a little bit, but again, I wanted more.
All that being said, I still liked this a lot and loved seeing Peter and Riley find their way back to each other. The moments we get were packed with emotion and it made me love them together. This is probably one of my favorite of this series so far.
I enjoyed this one about childhood besties/lovers getting a second chance after an I’ll-fated accident and misunderstanding that separated Peter and Riley for 8 years. It’s sometimes hard to establish a connection when there is a past we weren’t a part of, but I felt it here. What I was missing was Peter and Riley establishing a new connection outside of their past. They do some work, but I felt like the past was handing over them for too long and they fought a lot. I needed more in between moments.
I also wanted more magic—we get to know how magical the old amusement park was for them both and I wanted that captured again as adults. We get a little bit, but again, I wanted more.
All that being said, I still liked this a lot and loved seeing Peter and Riley find their way back to each other. The moments we get were packed with emotion and it made me love them together. This is probably one of my favorite of this series so far.
September 5, 2022
This is a story that reads a little like a treasure hunt wrapped up in a fairy tale. I found myself wondering about Peter’s story as he was introduced/present in Counterpoint. It definitely didn’t disappoint. Peter and Riley have a beautiful shared history in this magical place that provides a backdrop for their second chance romance. It’s easy to see why Peter was hanging around a certain book store in VT—His heart knew where it needed to be. These two together have quite a journey, and it pulled on my heartstrings. There’s something about love that’s rooted in deep and lasting friendship that makes it just that little bit extra special… Just like the place that enchanted so many visitors to come to a park in VT.
September 19, 2022
Another wonderful tale by one of my favourite authors. This is a beautifully sweet second chance story of Riley and Peter with all the emotions. It is a sweet, sexy, fun feel good read in one of my favourite weekend getaway locations.
I received this book as an Advanced Reader's Copy.
I received this book as an Advanced Reader's Copy.
September 22, 2022
I absolutely loved this second chance romance! Riley and Peter were the best. I loved watching them fall back in love and sort out the situation Riley's grandfather got himself into. This was one of my favorite books in this shared world, and I highly recommend it!
October 19, 2022
Overall a very cute second chance romance!
I really liked Riley and Peter’s chemistry. There was a fair amount of delicious tension and their compatibility was off the charts.
I only wish they hashed out their past a bit more than they did.
I really liked Riley and Peter’s chemistry. There was a fair amount of delicious tension and their compatibility was off the charts.
I only wish they hashed out their past a bit more than they did.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 106 reviews