Winemaking can be deadly
THE GOOD LIFE (Amateur Sleuth-Chris Garrett-No. California-Cont) - G+
White, David G. - 1st book
Harmon and White Publishing, 2008, US Hardcover - ISBN: 9780979158308
First Sentence: I awoke with a start.
Chris Garrett is the assistant winemaker for Maverick Cellars in Napa, California. Accidents can happen. When the body of one of the wineries owners is found in a fermentation tank, the assumption is that he was overcome by the carbon dioxide fumes, fell into the tank and drowned. This supposition is reinforced when one of the policemen on the scene, nearly suffered the same fate.
Chris, however, has spotted the owners glasses still lying on a nearby shelf and doesn't believe the death was accidental. Since the sheriff, who happens to be the widow's brother, won't investigate it as a murder, the Chris and his friend, Deputy Sheriff Jeff Beckwell, will.
It was by pure happenstance, my friend and I visited a winery in Napa Valley for my birthday and David White was there with copies of this new book. The combination of a lovely day, good wine and a new mystery made it impossible to pass up.
There were many things I enjoyed about this book The sense of place was quite good in spots and the information on wine making was interesting and informative without slowing down the plot. I enjoyed the characters. There wasn't a lot of backstory on them, but they still came through as real and knowable people. I was particularly pleased that the protagonist was neither a super-macho type, nor a strict amateur sleuth, but always had working with the knowledge and help of his policeman friend.
The dialogue was quite good; a little rough in spots but humorous in others. The plot was well done; I didn't see where it was going, and there was just enough suspense to work, but it was never unbelievable. There were a couple spots where a slightly firmer editing hand would have been useful. At the same time, I was never distracted from the story.
I am very glad I didn't pass up this book and am looking forward to reading the next in the series.
A Riviting Revitalization
This refreshing journey revives rare human qualities such as camaraderie, courage, honor, honesty, and witty, clean humor. I experienced Napa Valley through the lives of four companions as they searched for answers to an unexpected mystery. I really enjoyed how their lives drew closely together as they discovered the glue of their friendships. It's a sharp, fast, and an easy read that will keep you guessing until the end.
Fun Reading
I really enjoyed reading the book. I liked how it covered a murder mystery and at the same time intrigued readers with interesting stuff about wineries in the Napa region. I'm looking forward to David G. White's next great novel.
Live the Good Life - vicariously!
David White's novel "The Good Life" is delightful, a unique little gem of a novel. A great, light read to transport you to a place where we would all love to spend more time, a compelling mystery to keep you on your toes and charming, genuine characters you would happily spend time with. It is the perfect novel for: the armchair traveler (it immerses you in life in Napa); the vicarious winemaker (Chris Garrett is one of the best); and the closet oenophile (fun tasting with Rosalynd!). And of course, it is a good high stakes murder mystery. Take it on vacation, on your next plane ride or curl up on a lazy weekend afternoon.
