From Publishers Weekly
Mayle's breezy, uncomplicated fifth novel (
Chasing Cezanne, etc.) and ninth book follows 30-something Max Skinner from a sabotaged financial career in London to his adoption of the Provençal lifestyle on an inherited vineyard in France. Max spent holidays at his Uncle Henry's vineyard as a child, so when he inherits the place, the prospect of returning is tempting; a generous "bridging loan" from ex-brother-in-law Charlie seals the deal. The estate, Le Griffon, is in a dire state of disrepair and the wine cellar is filled with bottles of a dreadful-tasting swill, but it's nothing that vineyard caretaker Claude Roussel and prim housekeeper Madame Passepartout can't resolve. Max settles into his new life easily thanks to the attentions of local notary Nathalie Auzet and busty cafe owner Fanny. The arrival of young Californian "wine brat" Christie Roberts, Uncle Henry's long-lost daughter, complicates matters for Max, but her surprise offer and Charlie's arrival lessen the impact of a vicious vineyard scandal involving a delicious, high-priced, discreetly produced wine called Le Coin Perdu. Mayle's simple story provides lighthearted if unadventurous reading and a fond endorsement of the pleasures of viniculture.
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--Ce texte provient de la
Hardcover
édition.
The brief bio on Peter Mayle's latest literary soufflé says he "eats, drinks, writes, and lives in Provence." As the emphasis indicates, the taste buds play a starring role in this novel. Wine is the focus as a broke young Englishman inherits a run-down Provençal vineyard. He finds a mystery involving a forgotten corner of the vineyard, a long-lost cousin, romance (with a restaurant owner, of course), and lots of fine dining. Ben Chaplin reads with lively good humor and heavy, yet clearly understandable, French accents. After the novel, you'll hear Mayle himself talking about his experiences in France. This well-crafted escapism will be welcome to listeners looking for a break from everyday cares. J.A.S. © AudioFile 2004, Portland, Maine--
Copyright © AudioFile, Portland, Maine
This text refers to an alternate
Audio CD
edition.
de Peter Mayle
de Peter Mayle
de Peter Mayle
de Peter Mayle
de Peter Mayle
