This is one of the Wine Country Mysteries featuring winery owner, Lucie Montgomery. In this story, Lucie’s college friend, Rebecca, whom she hasn’t seen in 12 years, invites Lucie to Washington, D.C. She is looking forward to seeing Rebecca, but can’t help but wonder why she contacted her all of a sudden. Rebecca is now the protégé of a billionaire investor and philanthropist and after spending a few hours together in Washington visiting the monuments; Rebecca tells her that she must run an errand for her boss. She is never heard from again. Lucie soon finds out that Rebecca is somehow involved in a Ponzi scheme and she doesn’t know if she is still alive if she faked her own death. This is an engrossing mystery. I wanted to keep reading to find out whether or not Rebecca was still alive and who was responsible for the missing money. I had forgotten about this mystery series until recently. In addition to learning about vineyards in Virginia and their proud heritage in American history, the author consistently weaves a challenging mystery. Much of the story here takes place in DC with detailed descriptions of its stately architecture. The sordid, sleazy actions of powerful “players” sadly reflect much of what we are used to reading about especially when an elaborate Ponzi scheme is at the root of all that is evil. The plot is layered and made more intriguing with its frequent references to the writing of Alexander Pope. References to the events surrounding the War of 1812 connected the past eerily to the present. A number of characters introduced in earlier wine country mysteries are back, but they seemed more peripheral here. A smart mystery, with literary and historical connections ensures I will wait for Crosby’s next book.
What do You think about The Vintage Vendetta (2010)?
I absolutely love this Virginia-based wine country series.
—Temisotire
I love all the "Nikki Sands" winery owner snoop series.
—astor001
The 5th in the wine country mystery series--fun read!
—lekha
Loved it, as I have all of Ellen's books!
—gonzmelvin
