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BEFORE WE SAY GOODBYE
Boo Walker
Lake Union Publishing
September 16, 2025
445 pages
Amazon | Bookshop.org | Goodreads
When I chose to read this book, I did not realize that it was the prequel to a trilogy. But I don’t think that affected my enjoyment or the flow of the story. I don’t normally read a series, but after this book, I may have to.
Otis and Rebecca meet as teenagers, on a purple bus that is going to Woodstock in 1969. There was instant connection between the two, causing Otis to abandon his life plan of university and becoming a writer. Instead, he develops a lifetime obsession with Rebecca and with becoming a vintner.
We follow the relationship of Otis and Rebecca through the years. Because each one of them is flawed, I found the characterization of their life together very realistic. The wine-producing process is very informative and interesting. The relationship has its problems as does the business.
Yes, this book is about wine and relationships. I learned more about wine than I’ll ever remember. The descriptions of the tastes of different wines made my mouth water. The overtones and undertones. I enjoy wine, but I wish my palate was sophisticated enough to appreciate all the different nuances. It was so well described.
This is not a book for someone looking for fast-paced action. This is a slow burn narrative, it is descriptive and it is character character-building novel. And the tale of a family. It’s a story to be savoured. And, the author is so good at creating these stories.
There were a few surprises towards the end. And, there were definitely a few tears shed.
I’m off to nurse my book hangover!
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the Advance Readers Copy.
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