Olivia Holmes Has Inherited A Vineyard Paperback – 27 Aug. 2018

I didn’t expect to enjoy this book, but I did. So much that I immediately downloaded the sequel and read that in no time. There are believable characters and situations and just enough feel good factor to make it a lovely read.

I really enjoyed this book and look forward to reading the sequel. It was an easy read with warm hearted characters and the subject was different. The author had done his research and wrote about growing vines and wine making in a way that we could understand. I read this during lockdown and it brightened my days.

Olivia Holmes works in a PR firm. She is divorced and seeing a married man and she has no family that she is in contact with, when she finds out that, along with two other relatives, she has inherited a vineyard with the condition that, to get the inheritance, they must make a serious effort to run the Vineyard for a period of time. This is a pleasant enough story, with a lot of information about vineyards included but I think it could have been a lot better. One element that I struggled with was Olivia's relationship with the married man. I don't think that the wife's name is ever mentioned, and Olivia seems to express no interest in the situation of the wife, the status of the divorce that is apparently pending, or even to be that interested in the man - which all seemed unlikely. Overall, I do not think that there was that much depth or realism in any of the relationships that take place. Although there was a lot of practical wine making information in the book I did not get the feel that the characters were actually looking into the practicalities of running a wine business (i.e. would they be able to pay their way) which given their individual situations also seemed unlikely. So, it was an easy read and interesting basic premise, but did not feel that believable. For me it lacked any real intensity and did not generate much interest in the outcome.

What a thoroughly enjoyable and uplifting story. From a tired and bored middle aged woman to a would be wine expert.This author is a wonderful storyteller. I sincerely look forward to reading many more of his works.

Anybody who's ever had a job that was demanding yet boring will identify with Olivia's work situation. It's a nice story about how somebody escapes the rat race and finds some nice family to boot. However, I found it difficult to believe that a 40 something rank amateur who previously didn't even have a garden could learn all about it from videos and do all the work with just some weekend help from 2 other rank amateurs. Does Mark know what 7 acres looks like? My other problem was his idea of village life. Perhaps it's different in Kent.

Delightfully written in fluid and witty prose, this book positively exudes warmth, humanity, and good humour. Olivia, the story's protagonist, is an immensely likeable creation - as relatable as she is funny, as flawed as she is (eventually) wise - and, for me, the entire book just slipped down like a fine Cabernet Sauvignon (and no, I know nothing whatsoever about wine myself. I actually had to go Google the name of a "smooth" wine there). These days, it's increasingly rare to come across a book brimming with such unashamed positivity. I loved it.

A good read. Very well thought out. SPOILER ALERT: I was half expecting a ghostly visit from Gloria but that didnt happen. And the Gus thing, while predictable still caught me by surprise. I am going through a similar experience in making a business work, so it was a real confidence booster as well. Next stop: London Calling.

I love drinking wine and after reading this book I am so much more informed about the process of how much hard work goes into making wine.This is a great story with very interesting characters that work well together.Really enjoyed this story .

Mark Daydy's book, "Olivia Holmes Has Inherited a Vineyard", is an excellent read! The characters are real. It was fascinating to learn about growing grapes too!

I could empathise with so many of the characters as I giggled and nodded towards the storyline. I felt I was learning along with the characters, experiencing their life journey without the discomfort.

The story started rather slowly but like wine taste better as it aged. A light-hearted feel good read with a purposeful ending. If you're experiencing midlife crisis, this book might give you some inspiration or courage to step out of your comfort zone. It will be nice if the author comes up with a sequel on Olivia's progress in her new wine venture and relationship with Gus.

I loved this book. While the notion of inheriting something like a vineyard is farfetched for myself personally, Olivia's journey is infinitely relatable. It's a story about finding your place in life, and about that occurring at several stages throughout life (this point illustrated by not only Olivia, but the other central characters as well.) The plot and writing style are engaging, keeping you turning the page. By the end of it I was disappointed it was ending.This is a wonderful book - I highly recommend it.

Excellent work Olivia. I found it very motivational and prove that hard work always pays off. Family finally arrived for the three of them. How nice of Gloria to provide. Enjoyed your book very much.