(I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review).
The Apple Orchard
(Bella Vista Chronicles: Book One)
Written by Susan Wiggs
genre: contemporary romantic fiction
3.5 Stars
Tess Delaney is stunned to learn that she has a half sister and half an inheritance to Bella Vista Orchard. Dominic Rossi, sexy Italian banker and executor of Tess' grandfather's estates, pops the news to Tess that her grandfather is ill and she could come into money. Tess is blown away to learn that her secretive mother has never mentioned a sister and grandfather to her especially since she asked constantly about her absent father.
When Tess goes to Bella Vista she learns that her sister, Isobeljust learned about her existence but is waiting with open arms. Just as she is hit with the news of a new family Dominic informs them the Orchard is in big financial trouble. Lovely cook, Isobel buries her denial in baking and cooking as Tess goes on the hunt to save her new family.
Dominic, the big bad banker, joins in the search as they try to locate something that could stop the foreclosure and finds himself falling for the Irish girl with a smile that melts his once broken heart. As they explore her grandfather Magnus's past during WWII they may have found what they need...
As an only child I must say I was intrigued by this story just imagining what it would be like knowing you had a sibling out there you never knew about. I think Tess' reaction to all of this was realistic but Isobel seemed too accepting. Without isobel's perspective it was hard to figure out her motivation. Through Tess' eyes we see her as someone set in her ways and if something rocks the boat she denies it by putting all her energy in cooking. I think we will get a better sense of her in the next book but for those that like to read books as a standalone might be disappointed in her lack of characterization.
I liked the dynamics of mother and daughter relationship between Shannon and Tess but it was harder to get a sense of Shannon and her mother. The past was brought up a lot in this novel but failed to use it characterization. I saw the past as a plot device and even Annalise was more of a plot device than a real character.
There was some mystery but tended to be revealed instead of unraveled. The treasure hut aspect was fun but predictable as foreshadowing came off strong. I did like the novel but it was more of a set up of the series. I would recommend this to Wiggs' fans and those that like a uncomplicated read.
love,
kris
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