The True Purpose of Vines

"A British merchant succumbs to the charms of Portugal—and one captivating Portuguese woman—in this debut historical romance. Siniscalchi's command of Portuguese history and winemaking is impressive, and her vivid descriptions of the Douro region will make readers yearn to travel there... the author's compelling characters and propulsive plot create a warm romance that goes down easily and does not hesitate to explore the difficulties of a cross-cultural relationship." Kirkus Reviews Dive into Portugal's rich culture in this intoxicating historical romance about wine and love. Portugal, 1870 A woman desperate to save her vineyards... Julia Costa is the best winemaker in the Douro. After her late husband burdened her lands with debt, she vows to defend her legacy by any means necessary. The Englishman sent to uncover her secrets... The last thing Griffin Maxwell wants is to waste time mired in a Portuguese backwater. Still, to guarantee a partnership with Oporto's largest trading firm, he agrees to travel up the Douro River and chase a reluctant debtor. A meeting of two cultures... Nothing prepared Griffin for the headstrong winemaker. She tempts him into enjoying Portugal and is a threat to his carefully constructed plans. The arrogant Englishman arrived at Julia's lands, believing himself entitled to everything, including her heart. But how can she resist an attraction headier than a vintage? An enemy too powerful to fight alone... When a mysterious plague decimates Europe's vineyards, Griffin and Julia struggle to find a cure, blind-tasting their way into an intoxicating passion. But reality demands an answer: will they allow cultural differences to separate them, or will they fight for the love of a lifetime?