3.5 Stars Lovers of small town romance will enjoy the slow burn, forbidden romance in Bitter Truth by Meredith Wild and Jillian Liota!

After nine years trying to make it in LA, aspiring singer Murphy Hawthorne has returned to her family's vineyard in Napa Valley. Faced with the family that's still bitter over the fact that she left in the first place, Murphy struggles and old wounds quickly reopen. The only bright spot is Wes Hart, the head chef hired to open the new restaurant at the vineyard. Like Murphy, Wes is trying to start over and he can't risk his job over a relationship with his new boss's sister. If only he could get Murphy out of his head. Neither can deny the attraction between them and the connection that seems to keep putting them in each other's path. While each trying to forge a new path, could they do it together?

I love small town romances and that's what initially drew me to this one. While I think that trope was well executed, the book was a bit short for the other tropes and subplots to be fully fleshed out. I wish there had been more pages so we could've seen Murphy work things out more with her brother and father, for Wes to connect with his father, and for things to turn around at the vineyard. I'm hoping this is the start of a new series and we'll get to see more of the vineyard and both Memphis's and Micah's stories!

Thank you NetGalley and Meredith Wild & Jillian Liota for the ARC 💗

The premise of this had me so intrigued. An aspiring singer returning home, a beautiful vineyard setting, a heartfelt workplace romance with the chef at her family's vineyard, and that gorgeous swoony cover. Unfortunately, it fell a bit flat for me overall. It's a fast read, and again one that has the architecture for some real emotional substance. But, the fast pacing and undeveloped characters and backstory had me struggling to really immerse myself in both of these characters. Though they really do have great chemistry together- and I loved their meet cute. But the backstory, particular their relationships with their families and their pasts, felt really unclear and incomplete...which is challenging when so much of their issues stem from these family dynamics. And because of limited clarity here, in the end, it just felt incompletely resolved. So the story just really fizzled for me. I so wanted to love it, and I've enjoyed work by these authors before, but overall this one was a bit of a miss for me and didn't deliver on what I felt was an exciting narrative promise.

4 Stars for the small town romance

This is a quick, sweet story with likeable characters. I felt sorry for what happened to Murphy in LA but she made it seem like it was the end of the world that she had to go back to her hometown. At first I didn't really care for Wes, I thought he was a little arrogant but as the story went on I found him more likeable. Although the storyline is good, I just felt that it was too predictable. For how mad Murphy's dad was at her, I thought they would have had more confrontations.

The minute Murphy graduated, she fled the family vineyard to pursue her singing career in LA. Almost a decade later, she's back home with her tail between her legs. Her father and older brother are sceptical about her return while her younger brother and aunt welcome her with open arms. The vineyard is opening a restaurant and she's going to be in charge of the wait staff. Wes had big aspirations as a chef, but he tried to get to the top too fast and ended up getting burned. Now the only place that will hire him is a family's new restaurant and they don't know why he got fired from his last job. When Murphy and Wes meet the sparks fly, but they both know that its not a good idea for them to become involved, but ...

I received an early copy courtesy of Montlake through NetGalley.

Thanks to Netgalley for this ARC. This fell a little bit flat for me, not completely it was still good but just enough, there was parts that I really had to push through I guess it’s because there was two authors writing but we get to know the characters well and their backstory too. It is emotional and cute I loved the connection between Wes and Murphy but with all the problems between her brothers and father and even the constant talk with Wes cooking and doing stuff for the restaurant to open just took away from the story I feel like. It’s not bad by any means but it had a lot more potential to be way better and focus on Wes and Murphy more. I loved the beginning and how both of them met and the cute banter between them really made this story great and especially the spice from this. It isn’t too extreme or lacking it’s just right and I loved it!

For Murphy Hawthorne, the last place she wants to be is her childhood home, but when her life is in shambles, she’s left with no other choice. Returning home isn’t for the faint of heart as Murphy has to face old wounds and her bitter family that she left behind. The only bright spot in her situation is the charming and handsome, Wes Hart.

Bitter Truth is the perfect small-town romance that will captivate you immediately and leave you begging for more.

Murphy and Wes were a force to be reckoned with. Their chemistry is instant and consuming, but when Wes discovers who Murphy is, his world gets turned upside down. Wes doesn’t mix business with pleasure and the fact that Murphy is his boss’s younger sister, well, that definitely puts a wrench in things. Off-limits never looked so good and yet, despite the high stakes, Wes and Murphy are powerless when it comes to the pull between them.

What I liked about Wes and Murphy was how similar they were. They both got the wrong impression of each other when they first met and the more time they spent together, the more they realized they had in common. They both had their hearts wounded by people they were supposed to be able to trust and were desperate to have the second chance they both deserved. I really enjoyed watching these two grow as characters and navigate their way through everything life had to throw at them.

Bitter Truth is everything you would expect from a small-town, second-chance romance. This story delivers with real characters, family issues, forgiveness, and romance. I enjoyed everything about this story and can not wait to get my hands on the next book in this series.

Bitter Truth by Meredith Wild and Jillian Liota is a small town romance with lots of feels. I’ve read Ms. Wild’s work but this is my first experience reading Ms. Liota’s and the first time I’ve read something co-written by both of them. I was very pleased with the whole premise of this read–the small town wine country that I could envision from the descriptive narrative of their writing to the angst that these characters were dealing with, most especially Murphy’s after having been gone for nine years in LA as aspiring singer. I was immediately drawn in by Wesley’s characters – he’s just such a “nice” guy who is dealing with his own set of baggage that some would find overwhelming. These two characters together really made this a heartwarming, and at times heartbreaking, story that flowed nicely and kept my attention throughout. I liked everything about this contemporary romance and will most definitely be looking forward to reading more by these two authors. I’m grateful to have been given an opportunity to read and review an advance copy of this book for NetGalley.

I liked this romance book, it was an easy and quick read. All the characters were likeable and I liked the vineyard setting, too. The family dynamic and family history was kind of sad and how Murphy was treated felt really hurtful. The plot wasn’t complicated and overly dramatic and I liked the soft outcome.

Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for the copy of the book.

3⭐️

This was pretty great! E-ARC received from Netgalley.

A small town romance between a chef and singer, I was so ready to enjoy tf out of this story! But listen, it was okay! There were times I did enjoy it, but the rest fell short for me.

The chemistry and interaction between the two main characters didn’t feel totally genuine, and it felt like they both kept changing their mind and personality about each other. At least until they finally got together!
Additionally, I had a problem with how our FMC’s family treated her throughout the book and then had a hasty resolution towards the end.

I did love some of the routines and moments between Murphy and Wes, and I was honestly rooting for them!

((Listen, I feel like I need books of her brothers, they were just 🤌))

I appreciate the opportunity to read and review this book before its release, and sad that I didn’t get to love it more. These were just my personal thoughts and feelings so hopefully whoever decides to read this story, enjoys it so much more.

2.5 🌟
*Thank you to NetGalley, Montlake Publishing, Jillian Liota, and Meredith Wild for allowing me to read an early copy in exchange for my honest review*
I really liked the concept of this book. I mean, who ISNT down to read about a musician and a chef in small-town wine country?? Unfortunately, this was not for me. I felt that the interactions and dialogue of the two main characters were very unnatural and awkward at times, especially in terms of their first meeting. Additionally, I wasn’t invested in the characters or the plot the way I need to be in order to enjoy a book. I think it was a combination of the pacing of the novel-it felt super rushed-as well as the writing styles-they just were not for me. I also had a serious issue with how Murphy’s family treated her and spoke to her, all throughout the novel. I didn’t feel that it was adequately solved, either, and it honestly just felt so uncomfortable to read how much her family put her down and ignored her.
I did love a few moments between the characters-their routine talks on the bench, a peek of the musical/lyrical elements, and cooking scenes, but overall, I just think that this book was not for me. I am appreciative for the opportunity to read an early copy and I hope that if you come across this review in anticipation to read the book, you’ll take into consideration that this is strictly in regards to my opinion and personal preferences. I hope all who pick it up enjoy it!

This one was on the read now opinions. I loved that. I loved the small town vibes. It was a cute grumpy sunshine vibes for me. I saw the cover thinking it was cowboy romance.. i loved the funny and wittiness it in it. Then mixed in some spicy scene. I loved it. Thanks again ARC.

Forbidden romance is all the rage and Meredith Wild leans into it fully with Bitter Truth. From the gorgeous backdrop of a small-town to the found family vibes of the close-knit characters, Wild transports readers into a world they'd like to live in for awhile. The main characters are relatable and their backstories are fleshed out. While the hero was mysterious and aloof, I appreciated the development of his character with the secret of the plot twist. The story was a bit too contrived since attraction-at-first-sight is a weak pillar to rest the entire plot on but the development of the romance was tastefully written. Look forward to more releases from this author in the future!

Bitter Truth. A story about new beginnings, family, and coming to terms with one's past. What happens when a promising romance novel fails to deliver on its tantalizing premise? As secrets loom large and complex backstories unravel, this novel promises an emotional rollercoaster but ultimately leaves readers hanging.

Bitter Truth follows Murphy's return to her family’s vineyard with her dreams in tatters, and the immediate connection she forms with Wes. In the beginning, we meet Murphy making her way home from LA, looking to heal and rebuild. Her misfortune takes her straight into the path of Wes, in more ways than one. The attraction is instant and the readers are promised a delight as it unfolds, except it doesn't.

Both main characters harbour significant secrets that the authors attempt to foreshadow. Initially, this adds intrigue, but by the midway point, there is barely an interaction with either character without them foreshadowing their ‘big secret’. It gets to a point where it's talked about so much, that it doesn't just fail to add to the story, you end up not caring. Then comes the big reveal! Without delving into spoilers, the secrets of the talented singer and the famous chef, so famous that he was hired just to attract people to the restaurant with his name alone, were disappointingly mundane. Both 'secrets' are things that are more commonplace for people in their chosen careers. But this is a romance novel so none of that matters, right? Oh well, onto the romance.

The romantic arc begins with an instant attraction that quickly evolves into a forbidden love/enemies-into-lovers/slow-burn dynamic. When Wes and Murphy finally come together, their chemistry diminishes. Wes vacillates between seeing Murphy as the love of his life and merely a sex object, making their relationship feel disjointed and awkward. There is some spice, but it feels very forced. Like cinnamon candy, some people will love it but in all honesty, it would be a better product without the spice. This book was written by two authors and you can tell. It comes across as disjointed and as though the authors had completely different ideas about what they wanted to do with the characters.

The main characters both have fascinating backgrounds. Murphy: A tragic childhood left her with trust and daddy issues as well as a fractured family. Wes: A fascinating family background that initially suggests a compelling 'damaged hero' backstory. His father’s story is so important to him that we learn early on that it is the sole reason he took the position and moved to the town. The book does a good job of building it up until… he gets distracted and then forgets all about it existing. So much groundwork is put in to state the importance of it and then, nothing. The reader is left hanging and the story line never finished. We see more of his mother and brother’s side, but it is a very complex backstory. It could be a whole book unto itself. It covers heavy topics such as addiction and abandonment, childhood trauma and the continued repercussions.

With only 268 pages to cover two detailed backstories, secrets and a love story the storylines feel flat, rushed and unrelatable. If anything the romance feels like an awkward addition to an already compressed storyline. While the characters exhibit decent chemistry when apart, their interactions together feel forced and overall the book feels like the weird feeling when families are forced together over holidays; It's just awkward.

Thank you NetGalley and Montlake Publishing for providing me with an e-arc - all opinions are my own

Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for the arc
After nine years in LA, aspiring singer Murphy Hawthorne leaves behind her broken dreams to return to her family’s vineyard. But as she helps open the property’s new restaurant, she faces a family still bitter about the fact she ever left, and old wounds quickly resurface. The only refreshing note is the handsome head chef, Wesley Hart.
Only he needs this job and can't afford to be dating his bosses daughter.
This is a heartwarming story dealing with so many issues that honestly the author dealt with huge empathy
Wesley's mother is an alcoholic and he tries his best to deal with this harrowing disease and our adorable FMC has had to deal with rejection and sexual unwanted advancement to become signed it made my stomach churn just thinking this can actually happen. They're both broken and fragile yet find something in each other that pulls them closer together.
I loved the author's writing style, the way she keeps you invested in her beautiful characters.
Wholeheartedly a warm romance. I can't wait to read more of her work
Kerry Kennedy Author

Overall: 4/5
Spice level: 2/5
Tropes: small town, coworkers to lovers 

CW: discussion of parental neglect and alcoholism, discussion of sexual harassment among the entering industry 

First of all, it was great to see Meredith Wild writing again! Liota is a new to me author. 

Before getting into the story, I must say the cover and title didn't exactly go together, in my opinion. Their vines are different. 

That being said, the book itself is pretty low angst for the most part but has just enough to create tense moments that help avoid a 3rd act breakup up trope.

Without giving too much away, there's family drama/trauma for both Wes and Murphy, past and present. 

I would've liked to have seen actual date scenes and for the chemistry to feel a little more urgent and explosive. It was there but felt more cozy than fiery. Which is fine, because it fits the cover's vibe more. The spice is pretty mild. 

I did like how Wes and Murphy were confidants for each other and sought vulnerability and comfort in each other without judgment. They joke about being each other's therapist, but they truly do open up to each other and allow space for frank and honest conversation. 

I saw some definite character development among both and a decent plot. 

I'm intrigued for what's next.

Until you heal the wounds of your past, your present is in limbo...

This story will give you all the feels that a small town romance is known for. Reluctantly, Murphy returns home with her tail between her legs after her hopes and dreams in L.A. are shattered. She is met with cold shoulders and resentment from family members for leaving home in the first place 9 years ago. Helping out in the family 's restaurant, she hopes to connect with them once again. She does not expect her boss and head chef Wesley Hart to be so gorgeous. This could be a problem.

Wes Hart wanted a fresh start. He is hired by the Hawthorne Vineyard to attract more tourists. He is immediately attracted to Murphy She is a red flag as she is his boss's sister, in other words, hands off.

A passionate emotional journey as Wes and Murphy navigate their pasts and futures together.

Overall I found this romance enjoyable and quite sweet. The couple's meet cute was fun and I very much enjoyed watching their connection grow. And the setting was just perfect. I felt like I could really picture the vineyard and restaurant; it made me want to plan a trip to northern California immediately.

Bitter Truth is a quick romance set on a family run vineyard in California’s wine country. Murphy and Wes share an immediate attraction to one another, but once they realize who each other are and that the family vineyard is at stake they try to put up a professional boundary. Both of them have pasts that they are secretly carrying with them and once they drop their guards to lean on one another there is nothing they can do to stop the sparks from flying. You truly root for these characters to come together! Thank you for the advanced copy to read and review.

2.7⭐️



Murphy fue a los Angeles para volverse cantante, durante nueve años intentó cumplir su sueño y un día conoció a Paul un agente con un sello discográfico, todo parecía ir bien hasta que le dijo que la única manera de triunfar era con favores sexuales. Ella le dijo que le daba asco, que no haría eso y el asqueroso lo puso en la lista negra por lo que tuvo que regresar a su pueblo porque nadie la iba a contratar.

Murphy tiene mala relación con su padre y su hermano mayor, Memphis, porque están enojados porque se fue por muchos años, Micah, el hermano menor tiene una buena relación con ella.

Memphis tiene un año para que el viñedo sea un éxito o el padre lo venderá por lo que empieza a implementar nuevas ideas como poner un restaurante y contrata a West un chef famoso.

Ya me había espantado cuando West empezó a contar porque dejó su trabajo, pero resultó que no fue tan malo lo que hizo.

La relación entre West y Murphy es un tira y afloje repetitivo.


Thanks to NetGalley, the publisher and the author for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.

What a great story! The fight for this love story captivated me! Meredith Wild is one of my go-to authors when I’m looking for a book that’s an easy read that I don’t want to put down & the team up with Jillian Liota brought something else to the book! I am excited to read more from Jillian!

When Murphy returns to her family vineyard, she falls for Wes who happens to be the new chef there. This is a lovely romance full of second chances and family bonds. The writing was good, and the characters were enjoyable.