Viognier Vendetta: A Wine Country Mystery for Enthusiasts

Ellen Crosby’s fifth mystery novel, described as "beguiling" by Kirkus Reviews, immerses readers in the power dynamics of Washington, D.C. In this gripping narrative, Lucie Montgomery is on the hunt for her missing friend while simultaneously uncovering a deep-rooted political and financial scandal.

Lucie arrives in Washington, D.C. amidst the picturesque cherry blossom season, eager for a reunion with her old friend, Rebecca Natale. However, what she doesn’t expect is that this reunion will end with Rebecca’s sudden and mysterious disappearance after she runs a simple errand for her boss, the wealthy philanthropist and investment strategist, Sir Thomas Asher. Adding to the intrigue, an antique silver wine cooler, a rare artifact looted by British soldiers during the War of 1812, has also vanished.

The next morning, Lucie discovers a disturbing clue: Rebecca’s neatly folded clothes are found in a rowboat adrift in the Potomac River. This discovery raises unsettling questions: Has Rebecca taken her own life, been murdered, or is she involved in an elaborate effort to vanish without a trace?

The plot thickens as Lucie navigates her way through a clandestine meeting at the U.S. Capitol, where a shocking revelation unfolds on a windswept hill. Mysterious messages from Rebecca, hidden within the verses of eighteenth-century poetry, add to the suspense and confusion surrounding her fate. This clever twist brings to light not only the concerns for Rebecca’s well-being but also the enigmatic dealings of Asher Investments.

Crosby weaves an intricate tapestry of mystery within the backdrop of colorful and engaging characters while incorporating fascinating details about winemaking—a hallmark of her storytelling. The Viognier Vendetta stands out as a compelling mystery with a rich narrative style that showcases Crosby’s distinctive voice.

As Lucie delves deeper into the investigation, she encounters a myriad of personalities and motives, each contributing to the complexity of the intrigue. The interplay of political power, personal relationships, and financial schemes paints a vivid picture of a world where appearances can be deceiving, and loyalties are uncertain.

In the quest to unveil the truth about Rebecca’s disappearance and the enigmatic workings of Asher Investments, Lucie must untangle a web of deceit, navigating dangerous twists and turns. The suspense is palpable as readers are taken on a journey filled with unexpected revelations and captivating discoveries.

Ultimately, The Viognier Vendetta captivates with its engaging plot and eloquent prose, inviting readers to explore the depths of friendship, loyalty, and the lengths one will go to uncover the truth. Crosby’s skillful storytelling ensures that the reader remains on the edge of their seat, eagerly turning pages to unravel the central mystery while contemplating the stark realities of power and trust in the corridors of influence.

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