The Crush reminds me of a watercolor. The vibrant colors, the vivid energy and the emotional connection are a work of art that speaks to the reader. There is a sexiness and flavor that is abundantly clear from the word go. Junie is a woman that has an emotional bond to wine. Her late father owned a winery and she wants to honor his memory and prove to herself that she can keep his dream alive, despite the odds. Her pride won't settle for less than success. Manelo, knows a thing or two about flavor. His background makes him an asset, but his arrogance makes him an aggravation in Junie's eyes. Opposites attract but can these two work together without combusting? A robust story that blends spice, sass and lots of pizzazz. ( )

The Crush by Heather Heyford
Oregon Wine Country #1

Juniper “Junie” Hart has a dream. Not many understand that she is willing to work hard and do just about anything to make her dream a reality. She has a staunch group of friends in the community but with finances short, a mother who wants money, a flake for a brother and a bad guy hot on the heels of her winery life is not easy but it is rewarding.

When Manolo Santos strolls into Junie’s wine tasting room sparks fly – angry ones – at least at first. Santos is a player but also a close friend of one of Junie’s friends. He is there for a short time working on a project and he always moves on. Manolo has issues of his own related to family on the East coast and though he is not a man who puts down roots he is definitely drawn to Junie.

This book talks about making wine – about many aspects of the process from grape growing to harvest then the crush filtering then bottling and finding means of marketing and selling this wonderful beverage. It is an educational but also fun novel to read.

I loved Junie’s strength. I loved Manolo’s giving nature. I loved the fact that good triumphed over evil. I loved the fact that Junie and Manolo did not fall into bed immediately and that they had to struggle with feelings and fears and more while dealing with “what ifs” – Great story – highly recommend it! AND I really want to find out what happens in book 2!

Thank you to NetGalley and Kensington Books for the ARC. This is my honest review.

4.5 Stars ( )