Get out the sunscreen – we’ve found the first beach read of the year! Happy Hour is the kind of novel we like to enjoy while lying in the sun with a frozen drink in our hand — but don’t wait for the temperature to rise: you’ll be as engrossed in the story even if you’re huddled under the covers with a cup of hot tea. It’s what we used to affectionately call chick lit – before the term developed a negative connotation – because we could so strongly relate to the female characters and the issues with which they were confronted.
Happy Hour is a welcome addition to this genre, giving us four new friends to care about and learn from. The book takes place in Napa Valley, where Jamie edits a wine magazine; Danielle is a vintner, about to launch a new collection; Kat works as a sommelier in the restaurant she and her husband own; and Alyssa is an artist, painting pictures of vineyards with a mysterious little boy in them. The women’s stories are interspersed so we get to know each one of them intimately. Just as importantly – or maybe even more so – we get to see them interact with each other and provide whatever support, encouragement or meal any one of them needs at any given moment.
Author Michele Scott has also written the Wine Lover’s Mystery Series so, when it comes to oenology, it’s obvious she knows her stuff. With Happy Hour, she proves she also knows the value of friends – especially when you’re raising children, and dealing with aging parents, divorce, illness and new love.
Like a good wine, Happy Hour goes down smoothly. It’s light, with a surprisingly rich undertone that lingers long after the last satisfying chapter. Another ode to the power of female friendship? We’ll drink to that.
Cheers! Another title to add to my ever increasing “books to read list”!