Books & Bottles Series (#19)
My friends… I’m struggling to write this blog post today!!! I know this is the end of August. I know it’s not the end of summerrrr, but… it’s killing me that my next B&B post will be in Autumn. 😩 That said, this book was a great beach read for the summer, so let’s get into August’s Books & Bottles Series (#19).
Aka, the one where Alli checked out a book from the library, and reads the whole thing before it was due… which has never happened in my life.
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Books & Bottles Series (#19)
This book has been on my TBR list for a really long time. I put it on hold through the Libby app as an audiobook and I received it twice. However, the narrator didn’t jive with me. I kept re-starting it and eventually gave up and put the physical copy on hold at the library.
The Book: Battle Royal by Lucy Parker
Short Back of the Book Summary:
Sylvie Fairchild charmed the world as a contestant on the hit baking show, Operation Cake. Her ingenious, creations captivated viewers and intrigued all but one of the judges, Dominic De Vere. Now they are rival bakery shops, across the street from one another.
When Dominic and Sylvie learn they will be fighting for the once in a lifetime opportunity to bake a cake for the upcoming wedding of Princess Rose, the flour begins to fly as they fight to come out on top.
The bride adores Sylvie’s quirky style. The palace wants Dominic’s classic perfection.
In this royal battle, can there be room for two?
Honest Review: 4 Stars
Once I got the physical copy of this book, it was much easier to get into the story and the plot. To be honest, I didn’t think the characters were going to be as complex as they are. Though both characters are over the age of 35. So, they’ve seen more life than other MCs in contemporary romance novels.
Both are grieving in their own way. Sylvie is grieving the loss of her Aunt/Mother-figure. Dominic is grieving a loveless and touchless childhood and struggles to show true affection toward his only sister and others. I loved reading about their pasts and getting to know them in depth. I find that most novels are surface level and I never feel like the characters have true chemistry. These two have known one another for years and, despite being enemies (to lovers), they still respect and appreciate each other as artists.
Also, loads and loads of cake and goodies. My favorite character is Pet, Dominic’s little sister. She’s perfectly biased and hopeful Sylvie and her brother will get together. She’s the best friend you want.
The Bottle: Charles & Charles 2020 Rosé
Charles & Charles is created by two winemakers (Charles Bieler and Charles Smith) who have a label with Trinchero Family Estates. I’ve been grabbing this rosé every year and not only is it the right price 😉 but it’s also a table staple. It’s such an easy wine. I’ve never had a friend complain about it cause it’s so tasty.
What I’m Tasting:
Crisp citrus with a little tang of bright cherry.
What I’m Smelling:
It smells like a floral garden with citrus trees… Summer. It smells like everything you love about summer.
Overall Grade: A
This is a “no questions asked” grab-and-go at the grocery store for me. If I cannot decide on a bottle of wine and there’s a Charles & Charles rosé, that’s what I getting. 9/10 recommend.
Can’t believe we’re headed into Autumn. The good news is I have a nice murder mystery and loads of wonderful Washington Fall-esque wines that I’ve picked up for September.
What’s on your reading list next month?
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