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Colorado Wine Mystery #2
A Pairing to Die For
A young winemaker is over a barrel when her new boyfriend is accused of murder in this delightful cozy mystery.
It's fall in Boulder, Colorado, and the leaves aren't the only things changing. Parker Valentine, owner of Vino Valentine, is finally settling in to her winery and her new relationship with Reid Wallace, a local chef. But their delicate pairing is endangered when Reid's estranged family comes into town to celebrate the opening of his new restaurant.
Reid and his family are immediately at loggerheads, given their often acidic temperaments, but Parker still wants to make a good first impression. However, her efforts might be in vain when Reid's sous chef is found dead in the alley behind the restaurant, and Reid is implicated in the murder. In order to save Reid, Parker will have to find the real killer, even if the truth is difficult to swallow.
It's fall in Boulder, Colorado, and the leaves aren't the only things changing. Parker Valentine, owner of Vino Valentine, is finally settling in to her winery and her new relationship with Reid Wallace, a local chef. But their delicate pairing is endangered when Reid's estranged family comes into town to celebrate the opening of his new restaurant.
Reid and his family are immediately at loggerheads, given their often acidic temperaments, but Parker still wants to make a good first impression. However, her efforts might be in vain when Reid's sous chef is found dead in the alley behind the restaurant, and Reid is implicated in the murder. In order to save Reid, Parker will have to find the real killer, even if the truth is difficult to swallow.
320 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published January 26, 2021
33 people are currently reading
520 people want to read
About the author
Kate Lansing
12 books265 followersKate lives in Denver, Colorado with her husband, two-year-old daughter, and a chair-napping tabby cat named Maple. Her love for mysteries began when she devoured From the Mixed-Up Files of Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler as a young girl, and has grown from there.
An award-winning short story author, her work has appeared in the Brave New Girls Anthology and the Crossing Colfax Anthology. She’s a member of Sisters in Crime and Mystery Writers of America, and is represented by Pamela Harty of The Knight Agency.
An award-winning short story author, her work has appeared in the Brave New Girls Anthology and the Crossing Colfax Anthology. She’s a member of Sisters in Crime and Mystery Writers of America, and is represented by Pamela Harty of The Knight Agency.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 126 reviews
January 29, 2021
Reid Wallace’s estranged family has come for a visit to Boulder, Colorado, and Parker Valentine is hoping to make a good impression on her boyfriend’s family. However, things aren’t going well as Reid’s family is constantly judging everything she says as not being up to their standards. Never mind their opinions of her wine. The visit is interrupted when Reid is arrested for murder. Oscar, the sous chef at Reid’s restaurant and his long-time friend, was murder behind the restaurant, and the police are certain that Reid did it. Parker doesn’t believe that Reid is capable of murder and sets out to figure out what really happened. Can she free her boyfriend from jail?
The first in this series was one of my favorite books from 2020, so I had high hopes for this one. I’m pleased to say I enjoyed it. There is plenty of conflict in this book to keep us hooked. I did think the pacing started to slow in the middle, but about the time I thought that, it picked up again and kept going until we reached the end. The characters are still rich, and I appreciated the growth in their relationships, while the new characters fit perfectly into Parker’s world. For those interested because of the wine theme, there are plenty of scenes in Parker’s winery. I’d forgotten that this series is written in the present tense, which I don’t mind once my brain adjusts. There are three delicious sounding recipes with suggested wine pairings at the end of the book. If you haven’t started this series, you need to fix that. If you’ve read the first, this book will please you.
NOTE: I received an ARC of this book.
Read my full review at Carstairs Considers.
The first in this series was one of my favorite books from 2020, so I had high hopes for this one. I’m pleased to say I enjoyed it. There is plenty of conflict in this book to keep us hooked. I did think the pacing started to slow in the middle, but about the time I thought that, it picked up again and kept going until we reached the end. The characters are still rich, and I appreciated the growth in their relationships, while the new characters fit perfectly into Parker’s world. For those interested because of the wine theme, there are plenty of scenes in Parker’s winery. I’d forgotten that this series is written in the present tense, which I don’t mind once my brain adjusts. There are three delicious sounding recipes with suggested wine pairings at the end of the book. If you haven’t started this series, you need to fix that. If you’ve read the first, this book will please you.
NOTE: I received an ARC of this book.
Read my full review at Carstairs Considers.
January 6, 2021
"A Pairing to Die For” by Kate Lansing the second instalment in the “Colorado Wine Mystery” series. I struggled sometimes with all the wine references, being a non drinker but over all I enjoy this series. I found myself engrossed in the story and reading it in a few days. It was entertaining, full of twists and turns as well as a few surprises.
I loved the characters which are well developed, especially Parker she makes a good protagonist. The secondary characters Sage, Liam, even her mum were likeable as well. I can’t wait to see what happens next with Parker and Reid.
I recommend this book to all my cozy lover friends.
I requested and received an advance reader copy of this book from Berkeley Publishing and Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I loved the characters which are well developed, especially Parker she makes a good protagonist. The secondary characters Sage, Liam, even her mum were likeable as well. I can’t wait to see what happens next with Parker and Reid.
I recommend this book to all my cozy lover friends.
I requested and received an advance reader copy of this book from Berkeley Publishing and Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
December 29, 2020
A Pairing to Die For by Kate Lansing is another great book in the Colorado Wine Mystery series! Once again, Lansing does an amazing job with character development. We meet Reid’s family right away in the book and see that Lansing can write characters who are horrible people, as well as characters you want to be friends with. The dinner scene at the beginning was so excruciating, but felt true to life for me. And if you’ve never experienced a dinner like that before, then I am very happy for you!
Romance is often a part of cozy mysteries since you have to have a contact in the police/legal/newspaper field, but I really enjoy the romance in this cozy series. The way Reid stands up for Parker is wonderful to see in a relationship. I know it’s just a book, but I have seen many couples in real life who do not have this important fundamental part of a relationship, so it’s nice to be able to read about one. Even though Parker’s faith in Reid truly being innocent gets tested a bit, of course, it all turns out well.
I did have a strong and correct suspicion about who the killer was early on, but Lansing really did do well with the red herrings and twists. I just read so many mysteries, that you kind of get a feel for it.
But I will say, with the killer’s reveal, it will add an interesting dynamic to future books in the series. I’m looking forward to seeing how it all will play out, and am looking forward to book three in the Colorado Wine Mysteries.
Romance is often a part of cozy mysteries since you have to have a contact in the police/legal/newspaper field, but I really enjoy the romance in this cozy series. The way Reid stands up for Parker is wonderful to see in a relationship. I know it’s just a book, but I have seen many couples in real life who do not have this important fundamental part of a relationship, so it’s nice to be able to read about one. Even though Parker’s faith in Reid truly being innocent gets tested a bit, of course, it all turns out well.
I did have a strong and correct suspicion about who the killer was early on, but Lansing really did do well with the red herrings and twists. I just read so many mysteries, that you kind of get a feel for it.
But I will say, with the killer’s reveal, it will add an interesting dynamic to future books in the series. I’m looking forward to seeing how it all will play out, and am looking forward to book three in the Colorado Wine Mysteries.
August 10, 2021
Thank you to the publisher for my review copy.
We are back at Vino Valentine for book 2. Honestly, I couldn’t be more content. This cozy is charming. Parker and Reid are incredibly sweet and I love their entire story.
Pairing the wine shop with quirky characters is chef’s kiss. Bottom line when I walk away from a cozy smiling and ready to take on a new food and wine pairing…it’s a win.
The only thing I took points off is for the chemistry and wine dialogue. That’s a personal opinion.
Four stars. Start at the beginning with book one!
We are back at Vino Valentine for book 2. Honestly, I couldn’t be more content. This cozy is charming. Parker and Reid are incredibly sweet and I love their entire story.
Pairing the wine shop with quirky characters is chef’s kiss. Bottom line when I walk away from a cozy smiling and ready to take on a new food and wine pairing…it’s a win.
The only thing I took points off is for the chemistry and wine dialogue. That’s a personal opinion.
Four stars. Start at the beginning with book one!
October 2, 2023
A great cozy mystery! Will definitely continue the series.
October 4, 2020
The stakes are even higher in the second Colorado Wine Mystery and this well-written, atmospheric mystery is a very enjoyable ride. With endearing characters, yummy food and wine pairings, and hip Boulder, Colorado ambiance, this series is becoming one of my favorites.
September 15, 2021
I'm really liking this series. I love the descriptions of Colorado as well as the wine making process. I love that the main character is around my age, so the book feels modern and familiar.
The only reason I'm not giving it a higher rating is because the mystery is lacking. In both novels, I guessed the killer since there weren't many options. I wish there were a few more characters thrown in so there would be more suspects.
The only reason I'm not giving it a higher rating is because the mystery is lacking. In both novels, I guessed the killer since there weren't many options. I wish there were a few more characters thrown in so there would be more suspects.
October 27, 2020
I loved the second installment in the Colorado Wine Mystery series as much as I did the first! I was drawn into the page-turning plot from the first chapter. The story had twists and gasp moments I didn't see coming, the mystery building to a satisfying end. I knew way back in book 1 that Parker Valentine was someone I would love to be friends with and not just because she owns a winery. She's witty, charming, loyal, ambitious, and sharp. I love the insights she offers about life, family, and relationships as she reflects on the challenges that she and the people around her are going through. Those nuances are part of what makes Parker such a compelling character and Lansing's writing so satisfying. The delectable descriptions of wine and food made me hungry and oh-so thirsty for a cold glass of wine. I cannot wait to try out the recipes at the back of the book and, of course, I'm anxiously awaiting book 3 and another gripping cozy mystery from this wildly talented writer. I give this book all the stars!
June 27, 2022
loved the 1st of this series but not so much this 2nd one. I think mostly because the main male protagonist was in jail the whole time which was a downer so there was no romance piece of it this time 😂 the mystery part was excellent - got a bit confused with all the new characters thrown in last minute though.
August 14, 2021
A Pairing To Die For is the second book in the Colorado Wine cozy mystery series. I loved the first one, Killer Chardonnay, and was excited to read this one as well. I actually ordered both of these books at the same time based on the pretty covers alone. In this case judging a book by its cover worked out well.
In this one things are going good for Parker Valentine. Her wine business is doing well and the relationship with boyfriend Reid is progressing nicely. Until, that is, the night she meets Reid's snobby family at his restaurant and he is arrested for the murder of his sous chef.
This is a series I recommend for any mystery lover. The writing is great. I love all the information about winemaking, the characters, and of course the mystery. Parker's investigation feels natural and necessary. There are plenty of people to suspect and there is danger too. I really appreciate Parker's recall to the murder in the last book and her thoughts and feelings are very appropriate.
I am happy with how some relationships progressed. I really enjoyed my time in Boulder with Parker and friends/family and can't wait for more. The third in the series is Mulled To Death and comes out October 5th.
In this one things are going good for Parker Valentine. Her wine business is doing well and the relationship with boyfriend Reid is progressing nicely. Until, that is, the night she meets Reid's snobby family at his restaurant and he is arrested for the murder of his sous chef.
This is a series I recommend for any mystery lover. The writing is great. I love all the information about winemaking, the characters, and of course the mystery. Parker's investigation feels natural and necessary. There are plenty of people to suspect and there is danger too. I really appreciate Parker's recall to the murder in the last book and her thoughts and feelings are very appropriate.
I am happy with how some relationships progressed. I really enjoyed my time in Boulder with Parker and friends/family and can't wait for more. The third in the series is Mulled To Death and comes out October 5th.
January 25, 2021
This series is quickly becoming one of my favorites! There's a polish to this author's work that is really rare for a new author. The plot is so intricately woven, the setting so idyllic, and the characters so empathetically crafted that this book pulls you in by the collar and doesn't want to let go!
The book begins with Parker suffering through a dinner with her boyfriend Reid's haughty parents and two brothers. As rough as the meal is it's a cakewalk compared to how the evening ends, with Reid's sous chef and friend Oscar stabbed to death in the alley behind Reid's new restaurant and Reid hauled off to jail for the crime. Of course we all know Reid isn't capable of killing anyone, let alone someone he cares about as much as Oscar, but the Boulder Police Department, specifically Detective Eli, don't seem to agree. It's up to Parker to find enough evidence to get Reid off the hook.
This is a series I think you don't have to read in order. Book 1 is only referred to twice that I specifically remember and it's inconsequential both times so I think it's safe to read these out of order.
Thank you to NetGalley for providing me with an ARC.
The book begins with Parker suffering through a dinner with her boyfriend Reid's haughty parents and two brothers. As rough as the meal is it's a cakewalk compared to how the evening ends, with Reid's sous chef and friend Oscar stabbed to death in the alley behind Reid's new restaurant and Reid hauled off to jail for the crime. Of course we all know Reid isn't capable of killing anyone, let alone someone he cares about as much as Oscar, but the Boulder Police Department, specifically Detective Eli, don't seem to agree. It's up to Parker to find enough evidence to get Reid off the hook.
This is a series I think you don't have to read in order. Book 1 is only referred to twice that I specifically remember and it's inconsequential both times so I think it's safe to read these out of order.
Thank you to NetGalley for providing me with an ARC.
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May 11, 2021A Pairing to Die For is book two in the “A Colorado Wine Mystery” series. Parker is spending most of her time coming up with new wine blends and keeping up with her new boyfriend, Reid. Unfortunately, his arrogant family comes to town, and chaos ensues, childhood mischief comes back to haunt Reid, and murder soon follows.
Parker is a character who is consistent, loyal, and ready to help no matter the personal cost. When Reid is accused of killing another chef, Parker knows he is innocent and sets out to prove it. Reid’s family doesn’t seem to care, and they offer no help. The only person she can turn to is a friend and the lead detective on the case, who happens to be a former love interest. Things get weird quickly as the wine flows, and Parker finds to her horror that she has become the target of a possible killer.
The suspects in this new book center mainly around Reid’s restaurant and his employees. Some have motives to have killed the victim, but none of them seem likely. Reid has secrets, and Parker has to uncover all of them to show that he isn’t a killer. Parkers wine and the winery, as well as Reid’s restaurant, are the primary locations throughout the story but the details and descriptions do not get bogged down or repetitive.
This story revolves around family relationships, as we get a good idea of Reid’s childhood and how he was raised, and the dynamic between Parker and her mother comes more clearly into focus and allows their relationship to mature. Her mother is showing an interest in winemaking and helping Parker with her business, while Reid’s mother tries to convince him that Parker isn’t good enough for him. In the end, the killer is exposed but does not bring comfort to anyone involved. Both parent/child relationships are enhanced, and Parker and Reid are brought closer. My only problem with this book was that I do not like the present tense format of this book; it made it hard to read and stopped the flow. However, I recommend that readers grab their favorite food, a nice glass of wine, and settle in their favorite chair to enjoy A Pairing to Die For.
Parker is a character who is consistent, loyal, and ready to help no matter the personal cost. When Reid is accused of killing another chef, Parker knows he is innocent and sets out to prove it. Reid’s family doesn’t seem to care, and they offer no help. The only person she can turn to is a friend and the lead detective on the case, who happens to be a former love interest. Things get weird quickly as the wine flows, and Parker finds to her horror that she has become the target of a possible killer.
The suspects in this new book center mainly around Reid’s restaurant and his employees. Some have motives to have killed the victim, but none of them seem likely. Reid has secrets, and Parker has to uncover all of them to show that he isn’t a killer. Parkers wine and the winery, as well as Reid’s restaurant, are the primary locations throughout the story but the details and descriptions do not get bogged down or repetitive.
This story revolves around family relationships, as we get a good idea of Reid’s childhood and how he was raised, and the dynamic between Parker and her mother comes more clearly into focus and allows their relationship to mature. Her mother is showing an interest in winemaking and helping Parker with her business, while Reid’s mother tries to convince him that Parker isn’t good enough for him. In the end, the killer is exposed but does not bring comfort to anyone involved. Both parent/child relationships are enhanced, and Parker and Reid are brought closer. My only problem with this book was that I do not like the present tense format of this book; it made it hard to read and stopped the flow. However, I recommend that readers grab their favorite food, a nice glass of wine, and settle in their favorite chair to enjoy A Pairing to Die For.
December 13, 2020
5/5 stars
Lansing absolutely nailed the second book in her Colorado Wine Mystery series. I loved getting a glimpse into Reid, where he comes from, and what he's made of when the foundations he stands on start to crumble. Seeing his family and their dynamic with Parker create the first spark of friction to build the story on was perfection in story telling and set the pace to be unputdownable.
Our girl Parker is my fave amateur sleuth! She is a strong and independent woman with a focus and determination I admire. I will follow her anywhere! I will also learn a lot about wine from her through this series which I can't wait to put to use over the holidays with the fantastic recipes included in the book (and a pairing cheat sheet just in case!).
I really loved the way Lansing captured the atmosphere of Boulder Colorado in the fall, the vibe is so unique and it bleeds through the pages here. It made this Colorado heart so happy!
For those of you wondering.... YES, A Pairing to Die For can absolutely be read without reading the first one if you choose.
If you like wine and murder, friendships and complicated relationships, mouthwatering food descriptions and strong independent women, this one is a must read for your TBR.
****Thank you so much to Berkley Books and Edelweiss for providing a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review*****
Lansing absolutely nailed the second book in her Colorado Wine Mystery series. I loved getting a glimpse into Reid, where he comes from, and what he's made of when the foundations he stands on start to crumble. Seeing his family and their dynamic with Parker create the first spark of friction to build the story on was perfection in story telling and set the pace to be unputdownable.
Our girl Parker is my fave amateur sleuth! She is a strong and independent woman with a focus and determination I admire. I will follow her anywhere! I will also learn a lot about wine from her through this series which I can't wait to put to use over the holidays with the fantastic recipes included in the book (and a pairing cheat sheet just in case!).
I really loved the way Lansing captured the atmosphere of Boulder Colorado in the fall, the vibe is so unique and it bleeds through the pages here. It made this Colorado heart so happy!
For those of you wondering.... YES, A Pairing to Die For can absolutely be read without reading the first one if you choose.
If you like wine and murder, friendships and complicated relationships, mouthwatering food descriptions and strong independent women, this one is a must read for your TBR.
****Thank you so much to Berkley Books and Edelweiss for providing a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review*****
October 2, 2020
Parker and Reid are back again in this second–and extremely fun– installment of the Colorado Wine Mystery series. Along with some sleuthing, there is food galore, delicious wines, and even some grape stomping, the latter, of which, made me think of that famed Lucille Ball episode. The book is fast-paced (I read it in two sittings), the characters are beautifully developed (even the villains), and it kept me guessing the whole time. Thoroughly enjoyable, with all the right notes, I really hope Lansing has more books planned!
March 22, 2022
I love this series!
July 9, 2023
This series is so cute with the right amount of murder and mayhem
September 24, 2024
This is an enjoyable, if formulaic, mystery. All of the elements are there - a believable set up, a falsely accused character who is important to the protagonist, and a cast of potential killers. The solution also makes sense, and there aren’t big holes in the detection that make you want to scream. Overall, it is well done and readable, even if as a reader I wasn’t as enamored with the main love interest as the protagonist is.
Thanks to NetGalley for the arc in exchange for an honest review
Thanks to NetGalley for the arc in exchange for an honest review
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April 21, 2025This series is the perfect escape from current events and I'm enjoying Brooke Hoover's audiobook versions so much.
October 8, 2023
I freaking love this series!! Seriously if you haven’t read it you should. I love Parker. She is sarcastic and tenacious. Reid’s family is visiting. His family…completely sucks. You will meet them (and hate them). Wine! Wine! Wine!
I had no idea who the killer was. Thought I did (several times)…but NO!! Awesome story. Five stars.
I had no idea who the killer was. Thought I did (several times)…but NO!! Awesome story. Five stars.
December 4, 2020
What a fun cozy--I'd give it 4-1/2 stars out of 5! I didn't read Book 1, but I will now. I love the characters--Parker and Reid, Reid's snooty family, Parker's employee, her friends--they all interest me. I even love all the bits about the process of making wine--and I don't like wine at all! But it's part of the believable world (well, as believable as cozies get) that Lansing builds here. The plot is interesting and fast-paced, though I had a good idea who the killer was before it was revealed.
The justice system works ridiculously quickly in arresting and arraigning Reid, but it gives Parker great motivation to solve the crime. Parker is strong, vulnerable, smart, and brave. I can't wait for the next book.
Review copy provided by the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
The justice system works ridiculously quickly in arresting and arraigning Reid, but it gives Parker great motivation to solve the crime. Parker is strong, vulnerable, smart, and brave. I can't wait for the next book.
Review copy provided by the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
March 8, 2022
Have you ever started reading a book, and the writing was so good it was like a movie playing in your mind? Well, this is one of those books! I truly did not want to stop reading. The mystery was great and it really pulled on my emotions even though I have not been in a situation like that. I am definitely looking forward to more books. Oh, & I need to find a way to try stomping grapes!
November 18, 2020
I loved this follow-up to Killer Chardonnay, and being back in Parker's world! The wine and food is described so well I could smell and taste it, and the mystery element brought tension and suspense that kept me reading. Kate Lansing writes with so much warmth that I wish I knew the characters and was able to visit Vino Valentine in person. Such a fun read that kept me hooked, trying to guess who was the real killer. Just what I needed to take me out of the real pandemic world, and into Parker's life.
October 31, 2020
4.5 stars
Lansing does a great job of raising the stakes in this book since her boyfriend is in really deep trouble. I love how she explores the serious topics of the justice system, family dynamics, and more, while still maintaining a moving and intriguing mystery.
There is deeper insight into the winemaking process with this novel, and I appreciated all the factoids given. Familiar characters also made a few cameos, so it felt like a fun reunion at times. I really appreciated the extra focus on Parker’s relationship with her parents, too, particularly with her mom.
Even though I could figure out the actual culprit before the end, I still liked the psychology behind it. This was not as lighthearted of a read as the previous novel, but I did appreciate some of the questions raised.
An interesting mystery that delves into some complex topics like family, police bias, and even classism.
Lansing does a great job of raising the stakes in this book since her boyfriend is in really deep trouble. I love how she explores the serious topics of the justice system, family dynamics, and more, while still maintaining a moving and intriguing mystery.
There is deeper insight into the winemaking process with this novel, and I appreciated all the factoids given. Familiar characters also made a few cameos, so it felt like a fun reunion at times. I really appreciated the extra focus on Parker’s relationship with her parents, too, particularly with her mom.
Even though I could figure out the actual culprit before the end, I still liked the psychology behind it. This was not as lighthearted of a read as the previous novel, but I did appreciate some of the questions raised.
An interesting mystery that delves into some complex topics like family, police bias, and even classism.
February 16, 2021
The first book in this series was one of the best I had read last year so I was really looking forward to reading A Pairing to Die For. This second book did not disappoint and I've already pre-ordered the next book in the series due out later this year. There is so much in this book to keep the reader engaged and turning pages. I really enjoy all of the characters and find them to be well written. The author has done a good job of growing their relationships - especially Parker's relationship with her mother. If you enjoy wine or have an interest in learning about the process, this series offers the reader a nice peek "behind the curtain" without taking too much from the story or the mystery. The mystery was solid and kept me guessing until the end. The author did a nice job of throwing me off track. About mid-way through the story, I thought I knew the killer's identity but then the author diverted my attention with some red herrings that fooled me. The story and mystery are wrapped up with an ending that once again finds Parker in danger but coming out only a little worse for wear.
This is a terrific series and frankly, I've not been overly impressed with some of the new cozy mystery authors that have been released by this publisher lately. I'm hopeful that this is a series that will stick around for a while because I would like to see where this author takes the characters and what future mysteries she has in store.
This is a terrific series and frankly, I've not been overly impressed with some of the new cozy mystery authors that have been released by this publisher lately. I'm hopeful that this is a series that will stick around for a while because I would like to see where this author takes the characters and what future mysteries she has in store.
August 22, 2023
This is a fun cozy mystery starring Parker, a winemaker, in Boulder. Parker is looking for clues to help Reid, her chef boyfriend, who has been arrested for murder. This book is the second book in the Colorado Winemaker Series. (The first book is Killer Chardonnay). I loved reading about Boulder in the fall with the leaves changing and the local foods. While I was reading the story I felt like I was transported to the Boulder farmer’s market in the fall. Parker and her friends and family come together to solve the mystery and stomp some grapes. Also, there are 2 cute cats in this story. The story has great characters and I look forward to seeing what they get up to next.
March 19, 2021
Good story overall. I have no idea how these new businesses can thrive when their owners are never there.
February 6, 2021
Parker Valentine is turning her new winery business into a huge success, although it’s not always easy. Her assistant, Felix, is a huge help. Her mother is not all that happy with Parker’s new business, but she’s trying to come to terms with it.
Meanwhile, Parker’s relationship with Reid Wallace, a local restaurant owner and chef, is moving along smoothly. When Reid’s family comes to town, Parker quickly learns to appreciates her own family. To say Reid’s family is difficult to deal with would be putting it mildly. Parker and the Wallace family get off to a very unpleasant start and it never gets any better.
Then, Reid’s sous chef is found dead and the police turn right in Reid’s direction. They are convinced he is the killer and arrest him. Devastated, Parker vows to prove his innocence. His family is absolutely no help. She begins an investigation and doesn’t care where it leads as long as she gets Reid out of jail. Parker has no idea what sort of secrets have been buried and she would soon uncover.
I loved the first book in this series and I loved this one even more. The author has done a very good job at developing the characters. With each page readers learn more about Parker and Reid. Their characters take shape and come to life. So does their relationship.
The storyline is fast-paced with many twists and turns along the way. I wasn’t expecting the direction the author took to solving the mystery, but it all made sense in the end. It made for an exciting finale.
I’m looking forward to another visit to Boulder, Colorado and more delightful mysteries for Parker to solve.
Warning: You may start craving wine once you start this series. I know I did.
FTC Disclosure: I voluntarily reviewed a free Advance Reader Copy of this book from NetGalley and the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own.
Meanwhile, Parker’s relationship with Reid Wallace, a local restaurant owner and chef, is moving along smoothly. When Reid’s family comes to town, Parker quickly learns to appreciates her own family. To say Reid’s family is difficult to deal with would be putting it mildly. Parker and the Wallace family get off to a very unpleasant start and it never gets any better.
Then, Reid’s sous chef is found dead and the police turn right in Reid’s direction. They are convinced he is the killer and arrest him. Devastated, Parker vows to prove his innocence. His family is absolutely no help. She begins an investigation and doesn’t care where it leads as long as she gets Reid out of jail. Parker has no idea what sort of secrets have been buried and she would soon uncover.
I loved the first book in this series and I loved this one even more. The author has done a very good job at developing the characters. With each page readers learn more about Parker and Reid. Their characters take shape and come to life. So does their relationship.
The storyline is fast-paced with many twists and turns along the way. I wasn’t expecting the direction the author took to solving the mystery, but it all made sense in the end. It made for an exciting finale.
I’m looking forward to another visit to Boulder, Colorado and more delightful mysteries for Parker to solve.
Warning: You may start craving wine once you start this series. I know I did.
FTC Disclosure: I voluntarily reviewed a free Advance Reader Copy of this book from NetGalley and the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own.
October 30, 2021
Parker and Reid's relationship is going well, but Parker is not happy to be meeting Reid's snobby family, they pronounce on everything from what is the best wine (err Colorado doesn't count in their book - which as that is the wine that a) Parker brewed and mixed and b) they are currently IN Colorado is somewhat annoying) to the fact that Reid should stop "playing" at being a chef and come home. That would be bad enough but then the food goes wrong and Reid ends up back in the kitchen (leaving Parker to chat with the Wallace family), at the end of the evening she is glad to be back with her grapes and then bed, only to be woken by Reid phoning to say he has been arrested for the murder of his sous chef!
Now with her Detective friend Eli saying it is a cut and dried case and Reid's family refusing to help Parker finds her self blending wines and searching for clues - hopefully both will end up working well and Reid will be back in his restaurant kitchen rather than cooking in prison.
Now with her Detective friend Eli saying it is a cut and dried case and Reid's family refusing to help Parker finds her self blending wines and searching for clues - hopefully both will end up working well and Reid will be back in his restaurant kitchen rather than cooking in prison.
March 11, 2025
3.5 ⭐️
I really loved this and think it’s official that I’m a “cozy mystery girlie” now. This book was sweet and relaxing, with still the right amount of drama, especially at the end. The writing style was also really good, much better than many popular bookTok books out there 🫠 (shocker).
The only reason I didn’t give it a full five stars is because at times it felt just a tad slow, slightly vanilla, and unrealistic in certain aspects. But maybe that’s all normal with cozy mysteries? The is only my second one so honestly I wouldn’t know 😅
I liked the characters a lot, the different relational dynamics at play, and all the talk of food 😍
I didn’t realize at first that this book was actually the second book in a 4-book series, but it read just fine as a standalone. The author did a good job referring back to previous events from the first book without it feeling obnoxious or awkward. I will definitely be reading book 1, 3, and 4!
I really loved this and think it’s official that I’m a “cozy mystery girlie” now. This book was sweet and relaxing, with still the right amount of drama, especially at the end. The writing style was also really good, much better than many popular bookTok books out there 🫠 (shocker).
The only reason I didn’t give it a full five stars is because at times it felt just a tad slow, slightly vanilla, and unrealistic in certain aspects. But maybe that’s all normal with cozy mysteries? The is only my second one so honestly I wouldn’t know 😅
I liked the characters a lot, the different relational dynamics at play, and all the talk of food 😍
I didn’t realize at first that this book was actually the second book in a 4-book series, but it read just fine as a standalone. The author did a good job referring back to previous events from the first book without it feeling obnoxious or awkward. I will definitely be reading book 1, 3, and 4!
April 26, 2021
I really enjoyed this second installment in the Colorado Wine Mystery series. The writing is smooth and seamless, and the setting descriptions draw the reader into the beautiful setting. The wine-making processes are an added bonus to an intriguing mystery and entertaining characters. The only downside, for me, was the present tense style. I found it a bit jarring, just as I did in book one of the series. Other than that, I found the book to be a fun read. Looking forward to more in the series!
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