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Reviewed by Tammy Ruggles for Readers' Favorite
Bound By Vines, by G.R. McWhorter, is the absorbing, compelling story of two sisters, Rose and Lea, who lead different lives and have different characters, but a tragedy connects them again as they try to prevent the family wine business from going into bankruptcy. Lea is the younger of the two, a college student who has taken missteps along her life's journey, while Rose, the older sister, seems to have it all together in her law career but has to set it aside to operate the winery. Both are fish out of water when it comes to the wine business, but they do the best they can to navigate it, as well as other aspects of their lives, from men to friends to challenging times.
If you like character-driven women's fiction, this will be the perfect read for you. This well-conceived and executed novel will capture your attention and your heart from the beginning. McWhorter wastes no words or emotions in this piece. Rose and Lea are such interesting characters, and so well-drawn, you would think you're reading a memoir or biography. These are characters you could know in your neighborhood. The drama will keep you invested, and even minor characters, like Manuel and Isobel, play an important part in the story. The relationship between Rose and Lea feels realistic, and the contrast between the two is ripe for natural conflict.
The outcome isn't easily won, and that's one of the main things I like about the story. It doesn't unfold in a convenient way, and you are always wondering if these two sisters can reconcile their differences. Even though they are almost complete opposites of each other, I liked both of them. The wine theme is an interesting backdrop, too, so there is a lot to like in this compact novel. I believe this story would translate well to film. So, if you are searching for a novel that will entertain as well as satisfy, look no further than Bound By Vines, by G.R. McWhorter.
