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Crush
Mia Torwood moves from San Francisco to the central coast of California when her husband Tom buys a winery. She is resistant at first but learns to appreciate the slower pace of life and the beauty of the land. During their very first harvest, Tom dies of a heart attack. During a meeting with their financial planner, Mia learns her husband made some bad investments and the winery is her only asset. She must also find another vineyard manager because their present one, Jose, wants to retire.
Cal Sanders is a transgender man who helps run his family's winery in the central valley of California. He wants out of his small town because of the transphobia and harassment he has experienced since coming out as trans. He just wants to grow grapes and make great wine as the man he's always seen himself to be. So, he answers an ad looking for a vineyard manager and meets Mia Torwood. Cal makes an impression on Mia during their interview. He's the only man who treats her like she's the owner of the winery, not Jose. She offers him the job the next day.
As Cal settles in, he butts heads with the head winemaker, Samuel, who thinks the promotion to vineyard manager should have gone to him. He also has his eye on Mia. He challenges Cal at every turn, especially when Cal proposes turning the vineyard into a biodynamic farm with goats, chickens, and supplemental crops. It infuriates Samuel that Mia spends time with Cal. Things come to a head when Samuel corners Mia and tries to convince her that Cal is trying to seduce the winery out from under her. She calls him into her office the next day and fires him. He is escorted off the premises and makes threats to both Cal and the winery.
While all this is going on, Cal finds a box of letters in the attic of the apartment he lives in on the property. Both he and Mia join in on unraveling the mystery of the letters sent from a woman named Anne during World War II to one of the original winery owner's daughters, Patty. It leads them to Patty's granddaughter, who lets Cal and Mia read Patty's journals. The journals, they find, chronicle an extraordinary love story that brings Mia and Cal closer as they learn not everything was as it seemed on the winery decades ago.
Things take a harrowing turn when Cal wakes to a fire right under his apartment in the harvesting equipment room. He escapes with his life and some important files from Mia's office on the other side of his apartment. Mia is moved by his act of selflessness. He moves in with Mia temporarily as the building is repaired.
As the season winds down and grape harvesting begins, Cal and Mia finally acknowledge to themselves that their connection has grown and evolved. With the help of her friend Lloyd, Mia decides to have a conversation with Cal. Though she isn't quite ready for a relationship, she wants to be honest about how she feels. He too admits his feelings for her.
As Mia plans the winery's grape stomping festival, the culminating event that brings the growing season to an end, she considers what a future with Cal would look like. She rereads Patty's journals and weighs the risks and rewards of opening her heart up to love and possibility one more time.
Cal Sanders is a transgender man who helps run his family's winery in the central valley of California. He wants out of his small town because of the transphobia and harassment he has experienced since coming out as trans. He just wants to grow grapes and make great wine as the man he's always seen himself to be. So, he answers an ad looking for a vineyard manager and meets Mia Torwood. Cal makes an impression on Mia during their interview. He's the only man who treats her like she's the owner of the winery, not Jose. She offers him the job the next day.
As Cal settles in, he butts heads with the head winemaker, Samuel, who thinks the promotion to vineyard manager should have gone to him. He also has his eye on Mia. He challenges Cal at every turn, especially when Cal proposes turning the vineyard into a biodynamic farm with goats, chickens, and supplemental crops. It infuriates Samuel that Mia spends time with Cal. Things come to a head when Samuel corners Mia and tries to convince her that Cal is trying to seduce the winery out from under her. She calls him into her office the next day and fires him. He is escorted off the premises and makes threats to both Cal and the winery.
While all this is going on, Cal finds a box of letters in the attic of the apartment he lives in on the property. Both he and Mia join in on unraveling the mystery of the letters sent from a woman named Anne during World War II to one of the original winery owner's daughters, Patty. It leads them to Patty's granddaughter, who lets Cal and Mia read Patty's journals. The journals, they find, chronicle an extraordinary love story that brings Mia and Cal closer as they learn not everything was as it seemed on the winery decades ago.
Things take a harrowing turn when Cal wakes to a fire right under his apartment in the harvesting equipment room. He escapes with his life and some important files from Mia's office on the other side of his apartment. Mia is moved by his act of selflessness. He moves in with Mia temporarily as the building is repaired.
As the season winds down and grape harvesting begins, Cal and Mia finally acknowledge to themselves that their connection has grown and evolved. With the help of her friend Lloyd, Mia decides to have a conversation with Cal. Though she isn't quite ready for a relationship, she wants to be honest about how she feels. He too admits his feelings for her.
As Mia plans the winery's grape stomping festival, the culminating event that brings the growing season to an end, she considers what a future with Cal would look like. She rereads Patty's journals and weighs the risks and rewards of opening her heart up to love and possibility one more time.
232 pages, Paperback
First published June 14, 2022
29 people are currently reading
814 people want to read
About the author
L. Dreamer
10 books105 followersLuc Dreamer is a transman, dad, and full-time wanderer. He writes queer stories with heart and soul.
Check out his website and subscribe to his newsletter if that's your thing: www.lucdreamer.com
Check out his website and subscribe to his newsletter if that's your thing: www.lucdreamer.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 56 reviews
January 9, 2023
Cal Sanders is simply looking to live his life, his way. Growing grapes and making wine is his passion. Cal is looking for a new start far away from his transphobic small town.
Mia Torwood is looking to survive the sudden loss of her husband and running the winery without him. She is tied to her husband’s dream to avoid financial ruin.
Dreamer has created a telling story with a transgendered romantic main character. But more than this, he has given us a sensitive and uplifting romance surrounded by the allure of a winery. The writing is impeccable. The characters will stay with you long after the final page. The story has all the twists and turns to keep you riveted and as in my case, up all night reading to completion.
Crush is a must read story for all the romantics out there.
Mia Torwood is looking to survive the sudden loss of her husband and running the winery without him. She is tied to her husband’s dream to avoid financial ruin.
Dreamer has created a telling story with a transgendered romantic main character. But more than this, he has given us a sensitive and uplifting romance surrounded by the allure of a winery. The writing is impeccable. The characters will stay with you long after the final page. The story has all the twists and turns to keep you riveted and as in my case, up all night reading to completion.
Crush is a must read story for all the romantics out there.
March 23, 2023
This was a lovely by the numbers love story based in a California winery. Mia lost her husband a year ago, one year after he realised his dream of buying a winery. Although not really Mia's thing, she persevered and hired a new manager, Cal, whom had grown up on his own family's winery.
What develops is a love between a trans person and a widow. It was sweet, but a bit too sentimental for me and the writing was very basic with virtually nothing surprising happening right up to the end. I enjoyed it, but not as much as most.
What develops is a love between a trans person and a widow. It was sweet, but a bit too sentimental for me and the writing was very basic with virtually nothing surprising happening right up to the end. I enjoyed it, but not as much as most.
June 14, 2022
Luc Dreamer is one of my favorite authors with clear writing, thoughtfully constructed characters and plots that are never mundane.
A slow burn love story between (widow/winery owner) Mia and (vineyard manager) Cal cleverly meshed with another romance that begins in the 1940's and is revealed through letters and diaries and brings our leads closer. Information regarding the running of a winery and preparation for grape harvest is seamlessly written into the plot and we also learn about Cal's transition from female to male, hurdles faced and the reasons why he applied for the manager's position. Slow growth of attraction and communication are key in this romance which also has an unexpected twist and well fleshed out supporting characters. I was completely emotionally satisfied at book's end.
Wonderfully written. Kudos Luc for a beautiful love story. I look forward in anticipation to your next book.
A slow burn love story between (widow/winery owner) Mia and (vineyard manager) Cal cleverly meshed with another romance that begins in the 1940's and is revealed through letters and diaries and brings our leads closer. Information regarding the running of a winery and preparation for grape harvest is seamlessly written into the plot and we also learn about Cal's transition from female to male, hurdles faced and the reasons why he applied for the manager's position. Slow growth of attraction and communication are key in this romance which also has an unexpected twist and well fleshed out supporting characters. I was completely emotionally satisfied at book's end.
Wonderfully written. Kudos Luc for a beautiful love story. I look forward in anticipation to your next book.
June 22, 2022
I was fortunate to be on the beta team for this book and I’ve read it a bunch of times already, but I was still not prepared for how sweet, how emotional, how damn perfect the final version is. This is the kind of story that heals your heart. Every read-through I notice some new detail and see the scenes in a new light.
This is not a complicated romance, it’s a slow burn told from the POV of Cal and Mia.
Cal is several years younger than Mia, new to the job of manager but with a lifetime of winemaking experience. He is a total sweetie with a shy innocence that contrasts with his inner strength. Cal hasn’t had an easy life, dealing with sexism and transphobia in turn, but he’s never let that break him. His slowly growing feelings toward Mia are hampered by fear of rejection.
Mia lost her husband a year before the story begins, and is struggling to make his dream of running a successful winery a reality. She is determined and open minded, and it’s wonderful to see her coming back to life after her tragic loss.
And I have to mention Lloyd, the sassy gay best friend who is not only a complete hoot, but also a valuable ally. Who inspired my newest shelf!
Like a lot of other reviewers and fans of Dreamer’s work, I usually read WLW with some MLM from time to time. I was not hesitant to read this novel, though. It is written with sensitivity and respect, and the characters really came to life in this lovely story. It’s a beautifully-written story with some lighthearted moments, cute scenes, plus a little strife and sadness. For many reasons, I prefer not to read explicit MF, so I’d like to mention there is an intimate scene that is sweet and sexy, and true to the characters that I had absolutely no problem with. Nope, none at all…*fans self*
The secondary story is also remarkable. It’s woven skillfully throughout the main narrative and I don’t want to spoil anything but I was not prepared for how hard the conclusion hit me in the feels.
Highly recommend!
My rating: five stars
ARC received courtesy of the author and I am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
This is not a complicated romance, it’s a slow burn told from the POV of Cal and Mia.
Cal is several years younger than Mia, new to the job of manager but with a lifetime of winemaking experience. He is a total sweetie with a shy innocence that contrasts with his inner strength. Cal hasn’t had an easy life, dealing with sexism and transphobia in turn, but he’s never let that break him. His slowly growing feelings toward Mia are hampered by fear of rejection.
Mia lost her husband a year before the story begins, and is struggling to make his dream of running a successful winery a reality. She is determined and open minded, and it’s wonderful to see her coming back to life after her tragic loss.
And I have to mention Lloyd, the sassy gay best friend who is not only a complete hoot, but also a valuable ally. Who inspired my newest shelf!
Like a lot of other reviewers and fans of Dreamer’s work, I usually read WLW with some MLM from time to time. I was not hesitant to read this novel, though. It is written with sensitivity and respect, and the characters really came to life in this lovely story. It’s a beautifully-written story with some lighthearted moments, cute scenes, plus a little strife and sadness. For many reasons, I prefer not to read explicit MF, so I’d like to mention there is an intimate scene that is sweet and sexy, and true to the characters that I had absolutely no problem with. Nope, none at all…*fans self*
The secondary story is also remarkable. It’s woven skillfully throughout the main narrative and I don’t want to spoil anything but I was not prepared for how hard the conclusion hit me in the feels.
Highly recommend!
My rating: five stars
ARC received courtesy of the author and I am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
June 7, 2022
I was lucky enough to receive an ARC in exchange for an honest review. Crush is out June 14th, 2022.
💙💖🤍💖💙
“The fact that I lived the first twenty-five years of my life presenting as female has given me a perspective that no cis man has, you know?” - Crush by L. Dreamer
On the surface Crush is a fluffy, low angst, slow-burn romance -- which it very much is. But that’s not all this book is. Dreamer offers readers a unique perspective on gender through the character of Cal. For the first part of his life Cal was treated by society as female because that’s how he was perceived. Now able to live as the man he’s always been, Cal is experiencing the world in a whole new way.
This is very much a character driven story and gives us in-depth understanding of both MC’s through their own POV’s.
Crush begins by introducing us to Mia who has just lost her husband unexpectedly. As if that’s not enough for her to deal with, she finds out that the winery he purchased is in a great deal of debt. By the time Cal comes on board as the new manager Mia has been struggling to keep things afloat.
Having grown up in a small, closed-minded town, Cal sees his new job as a fresh start. For the first time he’s in a place where he’s able to live as his true self, on his terms by not telling anyone that he’s trans. Cal is a perfect fit for the winery, offering Mia sound advice as well as being someone to shoulder some of the burden. Crush is a low angst, slow-burn, sweet story that offers just the right amount of drama without being over the top. We are also given a fun mystery on the side in the form of decades old letters found by Cal.
THE GOOD:
💙 The pacing of this story is darn near perfect! Where many books tend to struggle towards the end, oftentimes throwing in a ridiculous misunderstanding to squeeze out a few more chapters, Crush does not rely on this for content. Instead Dreamer shows us how Cal and Mia’s story evolves from colleagues, to friends, to more. Their relationship unfolds very organically, at no point did anything seem forced.
💖 I absolutely loved how Dreamer let the mystery of the letters and ultimately the story of Patty, Adam, and Anne unfold throughout the course of the book. We learn their story right along with Mia and Cal, seeing it through both of their perspectives.
🤍 I also loved the ‘twist’ with the letters, I won’t say anything else though because I don’t want to spoil anything.
💖 Through the book the character of Samuel, a disgruntled employee, begins making a fuss because he felt entitled to something and didn’t get it. As Mia becomes increasingly more fearful of Samuel’s behavior she confides in Cal. Because Cal was perceived by the world as female for many years he is able to empathize with Mia in a way that cis men simply cannot. And without giving away too much, this very much shapes the way he reacts.
💙 I cannot tell you how freaking important it is to see Cal, a trans man, get a happy ending and be loved for who he is!
THE BAD:
Ummmm…. That it ended? Seriously I didn’t want to say goodbye to Mia and Cal, they are too freaking perfect for this world!
💙💖🤍💖💙
“The fact that I lived the first twenty-five years of my life presenting as female has given me a perspective that no cis man has, you know?” - Crush by L. Dreamer
On the surface Crush is a fluffy, low angst, slow-burn romance -- which it very much is. But that’s not all this book is. Dreamer offers readers a unique perspective on gender through the character of Cal. For the first part of his life Cal was treated by society as female because that’s how he was perceived. Now able to live as the man he’s always been, Cal is experiencing the world in a whole new way.
This is very much a character driven story and gives us in-depth understanding of both MC’s through their own POV’s.
Crush begins by introducing us to Mia who has just lost her husband unexpectedly. As if that’s not enough for her to deal with, she finds out that the winery he purchased is in a great deal of debt. By the time Cal comes on board as the new manager Mia has been struggling to keep things afloat.
Having grown up in a small, closed-minded town, Cal sees his new job as a fresh start. For the first time he’s in a place where he’s able to live as his true self, on his terms by not telling anyone that he’s trans. Cal is a perfect fit for the winery, offering Mia sound advice as well as being someone to shoulder some of the burden. Crush is a low angst, slow-burn, sweet story that offers just the right amount of drama without being over the top. We are also given a fun mystery on the side in the form of decades old letters found by Cal.
THE GOOD:
💙 The pacing of this story is darn near perfect! Where many books tend to struggle towards the end, oftentimes throwing in a ridiculous misunderstanding to squeeze out a few more chapters, Crush does not rely on this for content. Instead Dreamer shows us how Cal and Mia’s story evolves from colleagues, to friends, to more. Their relationship unfolds very organically, at no point did anything seem forced.
💖 I absolutely loved how Dreamer let the mystery of the letters and ultimately the story of Patty, Adam, and Anne unfold throughout the course of the book. We learn their story right along with Mia and Cal, seeing it through both of their perspectives.
🤍 I also loved the ‘twist’ with the letters, I won’t say anything else though because I don’t want to spoil anything.
💖 Through the book the character of Samuel, a disgruntled employee, begins making a fuss because he felt entitled to something and didn’t get it. As Mia becomes increasingly more fearful of Samuel’s behavior she confides in Cal. Because Cal was perceived by the world as female for many years he is able to empathize with Mia in a way that cis men simply cannot. And without giving away too much, this very much shapes the way he reacts.
💙 I cannot tell you how freaking important it is to see Cal, a trans man, get a happy ending and be loved for who he is!
THE BAD:
Ummmm…. That it ended? Seriously I didn’t want to say goodbye to Mia and Cal, they are too freaking perfect for this world!
June 6, 2022
After I just finished this book, I‘m still looking for words to express how much I loved this story. I just adore Luc Dreamer‘s writing and knew that this story is a very special one for him. It‘s actually the first story in years for me that isn’t about 2 women. But again I love Luc‘s stories and so I didn’t hesitate a single second to dive into this book.
For me Cal and Mia are perfect for each other after what they both went through in their lives. Mia is actually still grieving when they meet and Cal is still finding his way after transitioning to a man. But their experiences in life just make them click. They connect on a level they both don’t understand at the beginning or rather they both don’t realise how much they fit.
I loved how they slowly grow closer and closer. And how they share something else together, which was another thing I adored in this story. Because in this story there is woven another love story, that is set on the winery many years ago. The dairy entries and the letters touched my heart so much, and in the end it was like everything was connected to the present day.
Aside from Cal‘s & Mia’s love story and the integrated love story from the past, I loved how Luc described Cal‘s transitioning. I mean I honestly don’t know much about it, for me it’s just that everyone should be able to live how they want and be happy. I love that it seems to be a bit easier today than several years ago, but there is still a far way to go. At least that’s how I got it. But the positive way this story was written, hopefully gives other people hope. And as much as I love reading stories about two women, there need to be more stories like this one and I hope Luc can write more. Then when I think back to the stories that were out there 20 years ago, it was so important for me to find only a few.
There is something else I almost forgot. Luc also integrated a side character that gave me the creeps. The longer the story went on the more my feelings increased and it was like we got another sideshow. All of this lead me the turn the pages and didn’t wanna stop, well until I had to because my kindle said to me it’s over. ☺️
That leaves me to mention once more what an incredible story this is. One that has touched me so very much and I’m so glad & proud I got to read this. Luc you outdid yourself with this and I hope you’re so proud of yourself. 💖
I received an advance reader copy from the author and voluntarily leaving a rewiev.
For me Cal and Mia are perfect for each other after what they both went through in their lives. Mia is actually still grieving when they meet and Cal is still finding his way after transitioning to a man. But their experiences in life just make them click. They connect on a level they both don’t understand at the beginning or rather they both don’t realise how much they fit.
I loved how they slowly grow closer and closer. And how they share something else together, which was another thing I adored in this story. Because in this story there is woven another love story, that is set on the winery many years ago. The dairy entries and the letters touched my heart so much, and in the end it was like everything was connected to the present day.
Aside from Cal‘s & Mia’s love story and the integrated love story from the past, I loved how Luc described Cal‘s transitioning. I mean I honestly don’t know much about it, for me it’s just that everyone should be able to live how they want and be happy. I love that it seems to be a bit easier today than several years ago, but there is still a far way to go. At least that’s how I got it. But the positive way this story was written, hopefully gives other people hope. And as much as I love reading stories about two women, there need to be more stories like this one and I hope Luc can write more. Then when I think back to the stories that were out there 20 years ago, it was so important for me to find only a few.
There is something else I almost forgot. Luc also integrated a side character that gave me the creeps. The longer the story went on the more my feelings increased and it was like we got another sideshow. All of this lead me the turn the pages and didn’t wanna stop, well until I had to because my kindle said to me it’s over. ☺️
That leaves me to mention once more what an incredible story this is. One that has touched me so very much and I’m so glad & proud I got to read this. Luc you outdid yourself with this and I hope you’re so proud of yourself. 💖
I received an advance reader copy from the author and voluntarily leaving a rewiev.
June 21, 2022
"Crush" was my 4th book by Luc Dreamer and it's my favorite so far.
Mia Torwood lost her husband unexpectedly and is left with the winery he bought. She is griefing and as if that's not enough the winery is also in debt and she needs a new vineyard manager.
Cal Sanders left his transphobic home town to start a new life, finally living as the man he has always been. He applies for the job as the vineyard manager at Mia Torwood's winery.
I loved the slow burn romance between them. It was wonderful to read about both of them finding happiness after everything they've gone through in their lives.
There was also a sidestory in form of letters and diary entries which was a very nice addition to the main plot.
I loved the setting at the winery a lot. There were so many interesting details about running a winery and wine making.
Highly recommended!
Mia Torwood lost her husband unexpectedly and is left with the winery he bought. She is griefing and as if that's not enough the winery is also in debt and she needs a new vineyard manager.
Cal Sanders left his transphobic home town to start a new life, finally living as the man he has always been. He applies for the job as the vineyard manager at Mia Torwood's winery.
I loved the slow burn romance between them. It was wonderful to read about both of them finding happiness after everything they've gone through in their lives.
There was also a sidestory in form of letters and diary entries which was a very nice addition to the main plot.
I loved the setting at the winery a lot. There were so many interesting details about running a winery and wine making.
Highly recommended!
October 29, 2022
4 stars - a very sweet queer romance
While this is a queer romance, it is not a sapphic romance. The main characters are a cis het woman, and a trans man. He
I really enjoyed this story. Luc Dreamer can really write. I was immediately drawn into the story. And found myself eager to pick the book back up every time I needed to take a break. Both characters were realistic and likable. The setting was interesting and I learned a little bit about wineries and wine, making, which is always a bonus.
I would 100% recommend this to queer Romance enthusiasts. Let’s show Luc that he is still an important and appreciated member of our community by giving this excellent book some love.
While this is a queer romance, it is not a sapphic romance. The main characters are a cis het woman, and a trans man. He
I really enjoyed this story. Luc Dreamer can really write. I was immediately drawn into the story. And found myself eager to pick the book back up every time I needed to take a break. Both characters were realistic and likable. The setting was interesting and I learned a little bit about wineries and wine, making, which is always a bonus.
I would 100% recommend this to queer Romance enthusiasts. Let’s show Luc that he is still an important and appreciated member of our community by giving this excellent book some love.
May 13, 2024
3.5 Stars
This is my first time to read a story about a fully trans man. I admit there was a bit of hesitation to begin with because if it turned out to read like a straight story I’d have no qualms DNFing it. However, as the story progressed, Cal’s character was slowly unfolding into this easily loveable and sweet character who just so happened to be a trans man. It was an easy and enlightening read.
This is my first time to read a story about a fully trans man. I admit there was a bit of hesitation to begin with because if it turned out to read like a straight story I’d have no qualms DNFing it. However, as the story progressed, Cal’s character was slowly unfolding into this easily loveable and sweet character who just so happened to be a trans man. It was an easy and enlightening read.
June 10, 2022
Crush: A Sweet, Full-bodied Queer Romance
Author L. Dreamer
MC Mia Torwood’s & Cal Sanders
This story is so beautiful.
Mia is struggling after the sudden death of her husband. The vineyard was originally her husbands dream that she wanted to keep alive. Jose her vineyard manager has decided to retire, all the convincing in the world couldn’t make him stay. After all he had a wife who was ready to enjoy retirement. “my wife, she’s been very patient.”-Jose. Jose helped Mia find a new manager, Cal. Cal Sanders, grew up on a vineyard. His father taught him everything he needed to know. And it was in his blood. Cal had a lot to bring to the table and was a perfect replacement for Jose. Cal was also a trans man. Cal left his family vineyard for a fresh start. Although, his family was supportive, the small town life and business associates were a different story.
There is so much to this story. You have a beautiful friendship that starts with Mia and Cal. I love watching her open up and work through the loss of her husband. Cal, was in his element on the vineyard. You got to see Cal be comfortable with his true self and a job that he truly loved. And he brought such great ideas to Mia to make the vineyard even better. It was refreshing to see a true friendship develop and turn into deeper feelings.
I have to shine some light on Lloyd, Mia’s best friend. He brought the fabulousness to the story. What an amazing character. He had such an energy that came through the pages, and he loved and cared for Mia.
Let’s talk about Samuel. Such a creep. Very well written. He does a great job at making Mia feel uneasy, but ultimately his part in this story helps push the two main characters even closer.
The story of Anne and Patty was superb. It tied in so nicely with present day. I don’t want to give anything away. It really helps you understand how blessed we are to be able to love and live out loud!
Mia and Cal both struggle with a some issues during this book, but it’s all part of the journey. And they both are kind and accepting of one another. I loved learning about Cal’s transitioning. His thoughts and fears.
I have to say that the love Mia and Cal had for each other surpasses any book I have read so far this year. The way Mia and Cal grew together and found love in a slowly but surely manner was perfect. Mia’s acceptance and love for Cal, was how it should be. I didn’t want this story to end.
You need to read this book, it’s more than just a romance story. It gives you insight into so much.
I read this book in one sitting, I couldn’t put it down. And I really enjoyed learning about the vineyard. Like I said this book really gives you insight into so much!
The ending for me just simply magnificent, it brought everything full circle. L. Dreamer, this is one of my favorite books of the year. L. Dreamer has become one of my favorite authors. Thank you for such a perfect book.
5 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Author L. Dreamer
MC Mia Torwood’s & Cal Sanders
This story is so beautiful.
Mia is struggling after the sudden death of her husband. The vineyard was originally her husbands dream that she wanted to keep alive. Jose her vineyard manager has decided to retire, all the convincing in the world couldn’t make him stay. After all he had a wife who was ready to enjoy retirement. “my wife, she’s been very patient.”-Jose. Jose helped Mia find a new manager, Cal. Cal Sanders, grew up on a vineyard. His father taught him everything he needed to know. And it was in his blood. Cal had a lot to bring to the table and was a perfect replacement for Jose. Cal was also a trans man. Cal left his family vineyard for a fresh start. Although, his family was supportive, the small town life and business associates were a different story.
There is so much to this story. You have a beautiful friendship that starts with Mia and Cal. I love watching her open up and work through the loss of her husband. Cal, was in his element on the vineyard. You got to see Cal be comfortable with his true self and a job that he truly loved. And he brought such great ideas to Mia to make the vineyard even better. It was refreshing to see a true friendship develop and turn into deeper feelings.
I have to shine some light on Lloyd, Mia’s best friend. He brought the fabulousness to the story. What an amazing character. He had such an energy that came through the pages, and he loved and cared for Mia.
Let’s talk about Samuel. Such a creep. Very well written. He does a great job at making Mia feel uneasy, but ultimately his part in this story helps push the two main characters even closer.
The story of Anne and Patty was superb. It tied in so nicely with present day. I don’t want to give anything away. It really helps you understand how blessed we are to be able to love and live out loud!
Mia and Cal both struggle with a some issues during this book, but it’s all part of the journey. And they both are kind and accepting of one another. I loved learning about Cal’s transitioning. His thoughts and fears.
I have to say that the love Mia and Cal had for each other surpasses any book I have read so far this year. The way Mia and Cal grew together and found love in a slowly but surely manner was perfect. Mia’s acceptance and love for Cal, was how it should be. I didn’t want this story to end.
You need to read this book, it’s more than just a romance story. It gives you insight into so much.
I read this book in one sitting, I couldn’t put it down. And I really enjoyed learning about the vineyard. Like I said this book really gives you insight into so much!
The ending for me just simply magnificent, it brought everything full circle. L. Dreamer, this is one of my favorite books of the year. L. Dreamer has become one of my favorite authors. Thank you for such a perfect book.
5 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
June 9, 2022
Dreamer is one of my favourite authors because he writes these beautifully complex characters in perfectly fitting stories.
The cover of this book already says it all about the story: A sweet, full-bodied queer romance. It is that but not just that, in true Dreamer style. This book offers a pairing we don’t see all too often, or in my case it was my first book of the sort. Our main character Cal is a trans man and he’s paired with a cis female, his employer: Mia.
With the unique perspective that Dreamer can bring to the story we follow this slow burn romance and get to know these characters pretty well. We get to understand Cal an what he has gone through, his transition, his unique perspective on relations and female worries. This really shines when there are some issue with another employee of the winery.
Both Mia and Cal have a past, they are extremely understanding and patient with each other. They have good, adult, communication skills. I really like it when characters know how to communicate, it’s sadly still such a hard thing to come by in these type of books.
As with any Dreamer book it’s really a character driven story. With the unique perspective and storytelling, the addition of the “secondary” love story (find out about that when you read this yourself), it’s a well rounded easy to read love story. I really enjoyed it. For someone who reads mostly wlw stories I absolutely didn’t mind this was a different type of queer pairing, much like Mia didn’t mind either. I liked that too by the way :)
The cover of this book already says it all about the story: A sweet, full-bodied queer romance. It is that but not just that, in true Dreamer style. This book offers a pairing we don’t see all too often, or in my case it was my first book of the sort. Our main character Cal is a trans man and he’s paired with a cis female, his employer: Mia.
With the unique perspective that Dreamer can bring to the story we follow this slow burn romance and get to know these characters pretty well. We get to understand Cal an what he has gone through, his transition, his unique perspective on relations and female worries. This really shines when there are some issue with another employee of the winery.
Both Mia and Cal have a past, they are extremely understanding and patient with each other. They have good, adult, communication skills. I really like it when characters know how to communicate, it’s sadly still such a hard thing to come by in these type of books.
As with any Dreamer book it’s really a character driven story. With the unique perspective and storytelling, the addition of the “secondary” love story (find out about that when you read this yourself), it’s a well rounded easy to read love story. I really enjoyed it. For someone who reads mostly wlw stories I absolutely didn’t mind this was a different type of queer pairing, much like Mia didn’t mind either. I liked that too by the way :)
September 14, 2022
4.5 with the 0.5 off only being for a few dialogues that came off weird
This is an excellent romance with a good build-up between a cis woman and a trans man who are trying to run a winery&vineyard. I admit I know nothing about wine and vineyards so it all looked good and believable to me.
As I've said I liked the build-up of the romance and paralleling with a past trans romance. I am a fan of slow burn and while this book is not extremely long I would consider that the characters take their time to grow into their feelings and this is what I've wanted since they're both healing from the past
This is an excellent romance with a good build-up between a cis woman and a trans man who are trying to run a winery&vineyard. I admit I know nothing about wine and vineyards so it all looked good and believable to me.
As I've said I liked the build-up of the romance and paralleling with a past trans romance. I am a fan of slow burn and while this book is not extremely long I would consider that the characters take their time to grow into their feelings and this is what I've wanted since they're both healing from the past
June 17, 2022
Absolutely Worth It
I am an avid fan of Luc Dreamer. I’ve read all his books. They are all great including this one. I think it is a very brave thing to put yourself out there and I applaud Luc. I was able to relate with this book as easily as any of the others. The story is exciting and the writing is as good as ever, if not better. I highly recommend this book and this author.
I am an avid fan of Luc Dreamer. I’ve read all his books. They are all great including this one. I think it is a very brave thing to put yourself out there and I applaud Luc. I was able to relate with this book as easily as any of the others. The story is exciting and the writing is as good as ever, if not better. I highly recommend this book and this author.
December 17, 2022
Sweet, cozy, low stakes. The epilogue was entirely too saccharine for me and the book overall was liberally sprinkled with cheese but it got me and I enjoyed it.
June 20, 2022
Truly enjoyed this book! Enlightening sweet romance😍
June 15, 2022
must read
Its refreshing to read a book about a trans man and woman together. As someone whos struggled with their own sense of self and still am, it just made me really happy. Dreamer writes such amazing stories and this one was honestly the best yet imo. I can’t wait for more from him. ❤️
Its refreshing to read a book about a trans man and woman together. As someone whos struggled with their own sense of self and still am, it just made me really happy. Dreamer writes such amazing stories and this one was honestly the best yet imo. I can’t wait for more from him. ❤️
June 9, 2022
This was a new one for me. For the last 3 to 4 years I have read almost exclusively sappfic fiction (had so much catching up to do!!!) and while I have read a couple of books that had characters who identified as trans, most where either side characters or it didn't dive into what it means today to be trans. I've read many of Dreamer's books and have enjoyed every one of them. They are fun, cute, with compelling characters that you can't help but become invested in, and this one does not disappointment.
This story follows Cal, a trans male who becomes the manager for a winery owned by Mia, a widower that is still figuring out the business. I really liked Cal. He was sweet and understanding and had a very different perspective on the world having lived with the outside appearance of female for a long time. He knew from first hand knowledge the struggle and oppression of sexism and he supported the struggles that Mia went through really well.
The side story/mystery was cute and tied in with the story very well and while it wasn't a mystery for me, I still found myself invested in learning more about everything. There was one more side story that kick started a few things but ultimately it did not overshadow the forming relationship between Cal and Mia and the obstacles they both had to overcome.
All in all, this was another fantastic read. It did take me a little to get use to a POV that uses he/him, but it was worth it for an enjoyable read. I would recommend this book for fans of Dreamers previous books, romance fans, and/or if you want to explore more books with trans rep.
Received a copy in exchange for an honest review from the author.
This story follows Cal, a trans male who becomes the manager for a winery owned by Mia, a widower that is still figuring out the business. I really liked Cal. He was sweet and understanding and had a very different perspective on the world having lived with the outside appearance of female for a long time. He knew from first hand knowledge the struggle and oppression of sexism and he supported the struggles that Mia went through really well.
The side story/mystery was cute and tied in with the story very well and while it wasn't a mystery for me, I still found myself invested in learning more about everything. There was one more side story that kick started a few things but ultimately it did not overshadow the forming relationship between Cal and Mia and the obstacles they both had to overcome.
All in all, this was another fantastic read. It did take me a little to get use to a POV that uses he/him, but it was worth it for an enjoyable read. I would recommend this book for fans of Dreamers previous books, romance fans, and/or if you want to explore more books with trans rep.
Received a copy in exchange for an honest review from the author.
May 29, 2023
L. Dreamer’s Crush is the first story I have read with a trans-man/cis woman pairing, and I adored it. As an avid sapphic fiction reader, I questioned whether I would enjoy the dynamic and am so thankful I opened my mind to something new.
The story follows Cal, who manages Mia’s late-husbands vineyard, and the pair take an instant liking to each other but keep it to themselves. As they begin to work together, and Mia finds her interest in the everyday running of the vineyard increasing, Cal is more than happy to show her the ropes.
Their friendship grows slowly as their feelings toward each other grow stronger. Cal wants to share everything about himself with Mia, but after a past of hurt and judgment, he struggles with the weight of his secret. At the same time, Mia questions her ability to move on and give herself to another man.
Dreamer’s fantastic writing of the slow-burn romance, tension, and attraction kept me hooked. Despite the potential for angst, the author prioritizes clear and open communication between the MCs, focusing on their love story and their choice to be together.
And where there is potential for quite a lot of angst, Dreamer has made sure to keep the communication clear, and open, letting the reader focus on what is important; two people who want to live their lives on their own terms and the journey they find themselves on while finding love and happiness together.
Crush gets a full five stars from me, and I can’t wait to check out every other book L. Dreamer has written!
The story follows Cal, who manages Mia’s late-husbands vineyard, and the pair take an instant liking to each other but keep it to themselves. As they begin to work together, and Mia finds her interest in the everyday running of the vineyard increasing, Cal is more than happy to show her the ropes.
Their friendship grows slowly as their feelings toward each other grow stronger. Cal wants to share everything about himself with Mia, but after a past of hurt and judgment, he struggles with the weight of his secret. At the same time, Mia questions her ability to move on and give herself to another man.
Dreamer’s fantastic writing of the slow-burn romance, tension, and attraction kept me hooked. Despite the potential for angst, the author prioritizes clear and open communication between the MCs, focusing on their love story and their choice to be together.
And where there is potential for quite a lot of angst, Dreamer has made sure to keep the communication clear, and open, letting the reader focus on what is important; two people who want to live their lives on their own terms and the journey they find themselves on while finding love and happiness together.
Crush gets a full five stars from me, and I can’t wait to check out every other book L. Dreamer has written!
June 14, 2022
L Dreamer’s Crush is a sweet, character driven, slow burn romance which once again demonstrates how Dreamer is maturing as a writer. It tells the story of Cal a trans man and Mia a cis het woman who are both coming to terms with great changes in their lives. Cal’s complex character has a raw vulnerability about him which leads to a really tender and moving love story. The pacing is excellent and Dreamer avoids many of the traditional plot devices of this genre, allowing the characters and the story to evolve organically. This is low angst with no forced or contrived plot twists. It is refreshingly void of shame and big on self-acceptance. Authenticity seeps off the pages and it is wonderful to read such an honest and open portrayal of Cal’s experiences as a trans man. The structure of the book seems simple, yet it is deceptively intricate. This is Dreamer’s most accomplished and book yet, his writing goes from strength to strength. I really didn’t want Crush to enid because I was enjoying spending time with both main characters so much!
I received an ARC copy in return for an honest review.
I received an ARC copy in return for an honest review.
April 8, 2023
An excellent queer romance that I absolutely loved reading. A truly enjoyable read with lovable characters you are rooting for from the very beginning. I loved reading Cal and Mia’s story, as well as, getting glimpses into Patty and Adam’s lives through their letters and journals. It was a story I didn’t want to end. I hope we get more beautiful trans/cis woman stories like this in the years to come.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 14, 2023
Lush and heady…
Such a wonderful, sweet romance. I loved the story within a story, and hope at some point to read that book, as well.
Such a wonderful, sweet romance. I loved the story within a story, and hope at some point to read that book, as well.
November 14, 2025
Very much not like what I’ve been reading lately (kids books lmao) but so sweet and so fun and soooo gay !!
September 22, 2023
I did not want to put this down, the little bit of mystery and love letters, the daily running of a winery, the cuteness of Mia and Cal as they started falling in love — this book kept me up until I physically couldn't keep reading, and then I devoured the rest at my next opportunity 🍇 🥰
I wish I could read this again for the first time coziest up and sipping on my own glass of wonderful wine! A perfect slice of life book with a little bit of intrigue and a little sprinkle of danger for anyone's evening
I wish I could read this again for the first time coziest up and sipping on my own glass of wonderful wine! A perfect slice of life book with a little bit of intrigue and a little sprinkle of danger for anyone's evening
September 15, 2022
A sweet story
As a transgender man making a new start, Cal is just looking for acceptance for who he is and his knowledge of wine. He isn't looking for love and neither is the recently widowed Mia. Their relationship is a slow burn that includes Cal's worries about when and if it is wise to come out to Mia, who had been happily married to a cis man prior to his untimely and sudden death. The issues Cal experienced and his internal turmoil provide visibility into a very real and often misunderstood part of society. It shows that the agenda of queer folks is to be loved and understood just like everyone else. I want to thank the author for helping to provide more visibility. I also want to thank the author and publisher for my free copy through Goodreads.
As a transgender man making a new start, Cal is just looking for acceptance for who he is and his knowledge of wine. He isn't looking for love and neither is the recently widowed Mia. Their relationship is a slow burn that includes Cal's worries about when and if it is wise to come out to Mia, who had been happily married to a cis man prior to his untimely and sudden death. The issues Cal experienced and his internal turmoil provide visibility into a very real and often misunderstood part of society. It shows that the agenda of queer folks is to be loved and understood just like everyone else. I want to thank the author for helping to provide more visibility. I also want to thank the author and publisher for my free copy through Goodreads.
January 8, 2025
This is the first thing I've read from this author and I was pleasantly surprised! The story follows the slow build romance between a widowed winery owner and her FTM winery manager. There is a nice little historical plot line running through, as well.
It was an easy read with few surprises. Even the anxiety producing bits didn't produce much anxiety. Nice to see inclusion of trans main characters where the transition isn't the main story line but simply a part of the story.
There was a surprise bit of spice at the end that felt a little incongruent with the rest of the story but not so much that it changed my opinion of the over all book. All in all this was a nice, quick read.
Would love to see a sequel about Lloyd!
It was an easy read with few surprises. Even the anxiety producing bits didn't produce much anxiety. Nice to see inclusion of trans main characters where the transition isn't the main story line but simply a part of the story.
There was a surprise bit of spice at the end that felt a little incongruent with the rest of the story but not so much that it changed my opinion of the over all book. All in all this was a nice, quick read.
Would love to see a sequel about Lloyd!
October 17, 2022
Unexpected
I found this book completely by chance and decided to give it a try. It hooked me from the first chapter. I loved the story within the story. How we watch two couples grow and change and accept each other for who they are. I loved the spice level. I loved how it wasn't written like a hallmark love story like so may of these books are. It was a love story, but also a story of watching a woman grow to find herself. And a Man learning to love and accept himself for who he is. Its got drama, love, mystery, and the perfect about of tension. Give it a try, you won't be disappointed.
I found this book completely by chance and decided to give it a try. It hooked me from the first chapter. I loved the story within the story. How we watch two couples grow and change and accept each other for who they are. I loved the spice level. I loved how it wasn't written like a hallmark love story like so may of these books are. It was a love story, but also a story of watching a woman grow to find herself. And a Man learning to love and accept himself for who he is. Its got drama, love, mystery, and the perfect about of tension. Give it a try, you won't be disappointed.
January 9, 2025
I was excited to read a novel that centers an adult trans man who is a bit older- not a teen or early 20s like most novels about trans men are. I really wanted to like it. Conceptually, I liked the plot but the writing style was overly simplistic with minimal world building. I don’t care for excessively long and artistic descriptions of scenery or a character’s emotional state, but this really lacked artistic description. Sometimes it felt like the author just really wanted to get the idea on paper but never went back to beautify it. Also, there’s nothing exactly racist in it per se but it leans heavily on the flamboyant Black gay best friend trope a little more than I am comfortable with.
July 29, 2022
Bittersweet Stories
This novel is actually two stories, both about trans husbands and the women who love them. As one who is not familiar with the obstacles a trans gender person faces, it was an educational read in a well written story - but not confrontational, militant, or overly aggressive - just about the everyday life of people. L. Dreamer has written a novel that helped me to better understand the reasons why an individual would make a decision to change from their birth gender, humans falling in love, and the life cycle of a vineyard and the wine made there.
This novel is actually two stories, both about trans husbands and the women who love them. As one who is not familiar with the obstacles a trans gender person faces, it was an educational read in a well written story - but not confrontational, militant, or overly aggressive - just about the everyday life of people. L. Dreamer has written a novel that helped me to better understand the reasons why an individual would make a decision to change from their birth gender, humans falling in love, and the life cycle of a vineyard and the wine made there.
September 29, 2022
Mia, now solo owner of a winery after her husband's sudden death, is looking for a new manager. Cal, a double degree winemaker who grew up with the business but is looking to leave his judgmental town is a perfect fit for the job.
As a wine lover, the detail given to the vineyard and winemaking in general was absolutely fascinating and wonderful! The author also did a wonderful job addressing misogyny, transphobia and self-acceptance. The ending was a little rushed but all in all I enjoyed this one
Thank you to Goodreads and the publisher for my free e-copy!
As a wine lover, the detail given to the vineyard and winemaking in general was absolutely fascinating and wonderful! The author also did a wonderful job addressing misogyny, transphobia and self-acceptance. The ending was a little rushed but all in all I enjoyed this one
Thank you to Goodreads and the publisher for my free e-copy!
October 28, 2025
Loved this book so much.
I just found myself instantly swept up in Cal and Mia's story. Although we meet them both at emotionally difficult moments in their lives they bond over work at Mia's vineyard and a set of lost love letters they find on site.
I truly couldn't put it down. 'Crush' is the perfect combination of a gorgeous story, full of vivid and fully envisioned characters with a beautiful writing style by Dreamer.
I got swept in this romance effortlessly and cannot recommend it enough- stunning.
I just found myself instantly swept up in Cal and Mia's story. Although we meet them both at emotionally difficult moments in their lives they bond over work at Mia's vineyard and a set of lost love letters they find on site.
I truly couldn't put it down. 'Crush' is the perfect combination of a gorgeous story, full of vivid and fully envisioned characters with a beautiful writing style by Dreamer.
I got swept in this romance effortlessly and cannot recommend it enough- stunning.
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