Review: Bitter Truth (Hawthorne Vines #1) by Meredith Wild & Jillian Liota

Plot Summary

For two wounded hearts, love is a risk in an emotional novel about family, past regrets, and future hopes by Jillian Liota and #1 New York Times bestselling author Meredith Wild.

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.

Hired to draw more tourists to the Hawthorne vineyard, Wes is a culinary master with a reputation he wishes he could forget. Struggling with regrets and complex family dynamics of his own, he’s trying to start over, too. The biggest mistake he could make right now is to act on his attraction to his boss’s younger sister. If only he could get her out of his head…

Despite all the reasons to keep their distance, Murphy and Wes can’t deny the connection that keeps drawing them together. In each other, they find refuge and a sense of belonging neither could have imagined. But to forge a new future together, they must answer one important Can they face the past—and forgive it?

My Review

Rating: ★★★☆ ☆(3/5)

Bitter Truth is the first book in the Hawthorne Vines series, following Murphy Hawthorne, a woman who returns to her family’s vineyard after her dreams of a singing career fall apart. There, she meets Wes, the vineyard’s new head chef. Despite their initial differences, their chemistry grows, and they begin a passionate connection. Both carry emotional baggage that complicates their budding relationship, but as they navigate their feelings, they discover the potential for love and healing.

The romance in Bitter Truth is rich and emotionally charged. From the start, there’s a strong connection between Murphy and Wes, but both are cautious due to their past experiences. Their chemistry is undeniable, and their relationship evolves slowly, with both characters opening up and overcoming personal fears. The romance feels authentic, grounded in their mutual emotional growth and vulnerability.

What makes the romance especially engaging is how it develops alongside the characters’ healing journeys. The bond between Murphy and Wes isn’t just about attraction—it’s about two people learning to trust and support each other, making their connection feel more meaningful. Their relationship offers moments of tenderness and emotional breakthroughs that resonate throughout the story.

The vineyard setting adds an idyllic atmosphere, serving as the perfect backdrop for their developing romance. It offers peace and reflection, allowing both characters to grow individually and as a couple.

Bitter Truth is a heartfelt romance that blends chemistry with personal growth. Murphy and Wes’s evolving relationship is engaging, and the peaceful vineyard setting enhances their emotional journey. This book is perfect for readers who enjoy a slow-burn romance with emotional depth and meaningful character development.