Welcome, I am Gail Robin Raes. I began writing, more for my personal enjoyment and possibly a form of self-imposed therapy rather than with a goal to sell books.
First written as a fictional rom-com, Picnics in the Vineyard, soon became firmly grounded in truth, often more truth than I should have shared in a book.
Then as if that wasn't enough, I wrote a second book, Uncorked, where I literally list fact versus fiction chapter-by-chapter.
Why I felt the need to do this I don't have an answer, maybe these were stories that needed to be told? Perhaps I'm just too honest for my own good.
I spoke with a best-selling author and mentioned how much of my own life entered into my characters in unexpected ways.
She said that often happens and we end up "sprinkling" ourselves into the storyline. I didn't just "sprinkle" I unintentionally poured myself into the characters!
Remember the Morton salt girl who wore a yellow rain slicker and carried an umbrella with the slogan, "When it rains it pours." Yep, that was me...
Pouring my experiences into the story with a generous sprinkling of fiction and causing quite a stir.
Picnics in the Vineyard is an entertaining read, as you join the characters on a journey through California's Napa Valley wine country with a
sprinkling of love, a pinch of laughter and a dash of heartfelt moments along the way.
You will definitely want to read the companion book, Uncorked: The Story Behind Picnics in the Vineyard to discover what was fact versus fiction.
I sincerely hope you enjoy reading Picnics in the Vineyard and Uncorked: The Story Behind Picnics in the Vineyard.
Hugs and Happily-Ever-Afters, Gail
Contact Me
GailRaes.com | Facebook | Instagram |
Bookbub | Goodreads.
2025 Author Journey
This year has been an incredible milestone in my writing career! With 18 published books and several exciting new projects in the works, I continue to embrace the magic of storytelling in all its forms.
I am beyond thrilled to expand the Picnics in the Vineyard series — a heartfelt collection celebrating love, friendship, reinvention, and, of course, the enchanting beauty of wine country. This journey continues with my upcoming sequel, "Picnic with Friends Book Club," where book lovers gather to share stories, laughter, and meaningful connections over good wine and great company.
Bringing the flavors of wine country to life, I’m also working on a companion cookbook, "Picnics Among The Vines: A Wine Country Cookbook," featuring vineyard-inspired recipes that capture the heart and soul of the series.
In addition, I’m busy crafting several new children’s books, continuing to create fun, whimsical, and heartwarming stories that spark joy and imagination in young readers.
2025 is shaping up to be a year filled with creativity, inspiration, and new adventures, and I can’t wait to share these stories with all of you!
Four Books, One Beautiful Journey
Book #1 - Picnics in the Vineyard
A charming and uplifting novel about love, second chances, and the courage to follow your heart. Set against the picturesque backdrop of Napa Valley, this story follows a woman navigating a new chapter in life, discovering romance, friendship, and the beauty of starting over.
Book #2 - Uncorked: The Story Behind Picnics in the Vineyard
Go behind the scenes of Picnics in the Vineyard with this special companion book! Dive into the inspiration, the creative process, and personal stories that brought the novel to life-along with bonus content, including family recipes.
Book #3 - Picnic With Friends Book Club
What happens when a book club meets in the heart of wine country? Lively discussions, deep friendships, and more than a few unexpected surprises! This book follows a group of women who bond over literature, laughter, and, of course, delicious wine and food.
Book #4 - Picnics Among the Vines: A Wine Country Cookbook
A love letter to Napa Valley's rich culinary traditions, this cookbook is filled with picnic-perfect recipes inspired by the flavors of wine country. Featuring seasonal dishes, expert wine pairings, and practical picnic tips, this book brings the essence of vineyard dining to your table.
2024
August 10, 2024
I have recently published three NEW books: Uncorked, Just Desserts and The Last Supper. They are available on Amazon as ebooks.
July 10, 2024
I have been writing the stories for the Dragon Tales children's series and I'm very excited with how much fun they are. Next I'll be working on the illustrations.
June 12, 2024
Exciting News:
Bookbub selected Uncorked: The Story Behind Picnics in the Vineyard in their New Release Alert newsletter!
June 9, 2024
Uncorked: The Story Behind Picnics in the Vineyard has been published on Amazon available as an eBook.
February 25, 2024
I attended a book signing for author, Jan Moran, at the Hook and Ladder Winery in Santa Rosa, California.
Jan discussed her wonderful book, The Winemakers, which
takes place in Napa in the 1950's.
I had the pleasure of talking to Jan before the event and I gave her a copy of my book.
2023
October 18, 2023
My book has been accepted by Thrift Books for distribution.
October 1, 2023
Membership accepted into the Fellowship of the Pen for Novelists
September 1, 2023
My book has been accepted on Hoopla which is part of a nationwide library system.
July 12, 2023
P.E.O. Book Club, Napa Valley Chapter
A conversation with author Gail Robin Raes as she discusses her new book, Picnics in the Vineyard.
Her book is a work of fiction yet inspired by actual events while living in the Napa Valley.
She will be happy to answer questions and sign copies of her book.
June 1, 2023
Author Profile accepted on Bookbub,
Goodreads, Smashwords,
Barnes & Noble,
Apple iBooks, Kobo
and Amazon.
April 19, 2023
Fun Diners, Meet the Author, Peoria, AZ
March 14 and 20, 2023
Picnic with Friends Book Discussion, Surprise, AZ
February 6, 2023
Meet the Author, Sun City Grand Book Club, Surprise, AZ
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