My decision to read the book was initially based on the book's cover. It caught my attention and I wanted to delve into the story. They say never judge a book by its cover, but this cover is beautiful and I wanted to sit down and enjoy the picnics that would unfold in the story. I was not disappointed.

The characters are believable. Dialogue is realistic. I loved how the author added quotes at the top of each chapter; they were relevant to every chapter's storyline.

The main characters Jennifer, Presley and Robyn became fast friends and took center stage in the book, however, the secondary characters were interesting too and the author gave each of them a backstory as well. You soon feel like they are all friends of yours. The different things going on in the book added to the storyline and kept it interesting page by page. It wasn't boring or predictable that's for sure. And the fact that it was inspired by the author's life left me wanting to know which parts were real.

Lighthearted with a dash of love and friendship. September 7, 2024

Well, let me tell y'all, "Picnics in the Vineyard" by Gail Robin Raes is an absolute treat! It's like stepping into a sun-drenched afternoon in Napa, filled with good wine, good food, and even better company. The story follows Jennifer, Presley, and Robyn—three gals who go from strangers to best friends quicker than you can say "cheers!" And let me tell you, the author paints such a vivid picture of their lives that I felt like I was right there with them, sipping wine and laughing along.

Now, if you love a good recipe and a playlist to match your mood, you're in luck! Gail was sweet enough to include both, making this more than just a story—it’s an experience. I also adored how she added quotes at the start of each chapter; it felt like a little dose of wisdom just when you needed it.

This isn't your typical romance—it’s lively, heartwarming, and full of characters that feel like old friends. And honey, the setting in California? Well, it just took my breath away! You’ll want to pack a picnic and head out there yourself. All in all, I was hooked from that gorgeous cover to the very last page. If you’re looking for something lighthearted with a dash of love and friendship, this book is a perfect pick.

I loved the book and you won't regret reading it, at least I didn't. I felt a connection to the characters and I couldn't put it down. Every time I thought I'd stop reading for a while I suddenly felt compelled to see what would come next. My favorite parts were the karaoke nights, I also have a love of karaoke and could relate. Loved the picnics where the three women would discuss their lives and contemplate their future. The music referenced was the perfect addition to the story. I could hear the songs in my mind as the story unfolds.

Entertaining and fun book. Reviewed on April 19, 2023
This light hearted romance book was lively and entertaining. I found the characters captivating each in their own way. The book takes place in lovely portions of California that I personally enjoy to visit. The book is a great introduction to a new author.

A deliciously funny and deeply touching story. Reviewed on November 21, 2022
DIY, design, food, wine, friends, music, picnics, karaoke, love, laughter, loss, triumph, all combined to create a wonderfully weaved story of three strangers who quickly become bff's, set in Napa Ca. I loved all the vivid detail the author brought to each story line. Gail even included full recipes and playlists from the story as a special bonus! I feel inspired! A great girlfriend story for the young at heart!

Reviewed on 3-19-23
I finished reading your book. What a delightful story. I really enjoyed it. I want to go to Bruno's Brewery too!

What a great idea that you had to write this story weaving parts of your life experience into it. It took me awhile, but I enjoyed reading your feel good book! Love how you describe so much in detail. I can easily imagine being there! That Waverly Inn sounds gorgeous.

It was fun reading about Jennifer and her love of flip-flops, as I'll never forget that awesome decor in your own home. And I loved all the songs you referenced. My kind of music!
Congratulations again on this wonderful accomplishment!

Reviewed on 3-24-2023
Dear Gail, Just wanted to congratulate you once again on your 7 year accomplishment! It featured your wit and personality. I will enjoy making some of the delicious recipes while listening to your amazing playlists.

Reviewed on 3-20-2023
I really enjoyed reading your book, learning about which stories and characters were real and which were fiction, and then 'stepping' inside your lovely house made me feel like I was stepping inside your book/life, because your description and details were so good and vivid! Your home made me smile and feel so happy being there!

Reviewed on 3-19-2023
I really am enjoying the book. And I get a big kick out of how many songs you know, and the singers who sing them and have an event that each song fits into. I literally can see you in my mind in the book in so many of these events. It is so much fun.

Reviewed on November 13, 2022
Congratulations!!!!!!! I know you will be getting rave reviews on your book. I just finished reading it and thoroughly enjoyed it. I won't ask who Guido was. Ha ha. I can't wait to try some of the recipes they all sound really yummy! I have so much respect for authors, so amazing to me; I could never be so talented. I love to read and your book kept my undivided attention. Thank you so much.

Gail, just finished your book! Thank you for a fun read. I had to laugh when I read chapter 6 (when Jennifer went to the B & B) they were serving Pine Ridge that evening, I was drinking a glass myself!

What an accomplishment, lots of hard work and love went into your book. So happy for you.

Gail, this is such an amazing accomplishment, congratulations!
I bought the ebook as soon as Dawn Renee posted that you wrote it. "Romance" novels are not really my thing but this is not your ordinary romance novel. It was so refreshing and your writing is so descriptive I could visualize everything you were talking about. I really enjoyed reading it!! Yet, I was sad when I finished it. I wanted to read more.

Just finished your book. You put a lot of details and descriptions into your story. Enjoyed it a lot. I have been to Napa for the wine tour train ride. Brought back great memories. Very impressed with your endeavor to write a book.

Gail, congratulations! I just bought the book on Amazon. Even though you did say it was a girls, romantic comedy ha ha, ha, ha, ha, ha, ha.

Loved the book and happy we are friends!

Congratulations on the release of your book Gail!!! I've read it and definitely recommend it!

My sister, Gail Raes, just released her new RomCom book. Its ebook version is available now on Amazon and Kindle. I'm 6 chapters in and loving it so far! Takes place in California, so many will recognize familiar landmarks. BTW I might be mentioned in it??

If you like DIY, DESIGN, MUSIC, FOOD, ROMANCE and lots of great laughs, you'll love Picnics In The Vineyard!

BONUS: She includes recipes from Chef Lauren Mahlke of The Planted Table and some fun play lists, all used within the story. Take a break and download it now!

Reviewed on 11-22-2022 from Dawn Renee
I just finished Picnics In The Vineyard. Loved it!
I had no idea you were going to use so many of our family and personal stories. Lots of it was so touching and heartwarming. I loved how you wrote the Sam Hill characters to be the men we wish they had been.
I see you, me, Mom and Wendy in bits of each female character. And recognized lots of jokes we've shared.

I loved this! A great cast of characters and an incredibly fabulous read!

This book had it all. A perfect ending.

This book has everything from the charm of picnics in the Napa Valley to the renovation of a wine country cottage and references to the perfect playlists for each chapter plus recipes to the delicious foods prepared within the storyline.

The cast of characters are incredibly fun to follow from their picnics in the vineyard, karaoke nights at Bruno's brewery, renovation and do-it-yourself projects with plenty of romance along the way.

Inspired by actual events you'll enjoy page after page of this contemporary romantic comedy based in California's Napa Valley wine country.