"A relationship drama that is fascinating"
In 1990 at the age of ninety-one Joseph "Jock" Whitney
dies. Few if any mourn his death and many rejoice at his
expiring. The Australian mogul owned and managed the
country's biggest wine business, JACARANDA VINES, with an
iron fist and an ugly temper that fell upon anyone within
his radarscope including beleaguered family members.
However, like many despots throughout history, Jock must
have felt he would live forever because he failed to
properly train his successor. Most business experts
anticipate that Jock's survivors will carve up the kingdom
of the "King of the Vines" into little duchies before
selling off their shares. If nothing else, the civil war
between Jock's wife, her brother, and her children and
grandchildren will probably kill the company. For years Jock publicly and privately humiliated his
wife Cordelia. Surprisingly, she is the prime person
refusing to sell the company. Desperate to find one ally
among her relatives, Cordelia relates the family history
starting with Rose in 1830 England to her prime hope of a
supporter, her granddaughter Sophie. JACARANDA VINES is an exciting Australian historical
tale that spans over a hundred and seventy years, as
Cordelia affectionately tells the family history, which
enables the reader to understand why she wants to save the
firm. The strong story line provides the audience
incredible insight into Australia through Cordelia's
narrative. Tamara McKinley furbishes a terrific tale that
will surely garner her awards and several toasts from
readers for this entertainingly deep novel. Harriet Klausner
Reviewed by PNR Group Member
Posted November 24, 2001
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