What to expect:
- small town
- forced proximity on his family's scenic vineyard
- she's a singer-songwriter
- a dash of enemies to lovers with bickering and flirty banter!
- friends with benefits (one night turns to two and more)
- spice, emotional depth, and character development
- great narration

Sweet Escape is book two in the Hawthorne Vines series by Meredith Wild; Jillian Liota.
I loved book one and was so eager to start book two which did not disappoint.
A heartfelt novel about finding love in unexpected places.
This was an entertaining romantic story that had relatable and realistic characters.
For those who enjoy a compelling, heartfelt romance read this one.

I am a little proud that this is not the first time I’ve read Jillian Liota’s book! This is also very new to me because I usually repeat a lot of authors but I rarely end up reviewing them because they are what I call my comfort authors. You know those authors that you know they’ll be there no matter what they write and they’re always there for you. Whether you’re in a reading slump, you just read a book that wasn’t good enough so now you want something that will guarantee that it will fully satisfy you. I feel Jillian is becoming that person. That comfort author when I want something very simple: just a good story, just a good time!

Vivian and Memphis were amazing together! Vivian suffered a heartbreak and took some time off to heal and focus on her work. Memphis is trying to save his family business and has expectations for his vineyard. He has pride and loves what he does for a living, even though it is not easy and he has been struggling to keep the business afloat. Vivian, on the other hand, is a musician and she has been lacking a muse. Thankfully, after one amazing night with Memphis, she got her muse back. Memphis is the man who makes her feel music again. He is the one who inspires her, even though they banter a lot of times and seem to be the opposite of what one would want for their lives. Vivian will go back to LA, and Memphis will continue taking care of his vineyard. They know their time together is limited, so why not make the most of it?

I cannot say that I don’t love slow burns because when done right, a slow burn is awesome, but let me tell you that I have been craving for these I like you, you like me, f*ck it, let’s do it! I don’t know if it’s because I’m getting older and my patience is starting to dwindle, but I really appreciate it when the two main characters spend more time between the sheets than refusing to accept their attractions. Guys, we ALL know you’re going to end up in bed together, let’s cut the 200 pages of you denying your feelings and get to it! So “Sweet Escape” is awesome. Vivian sees something she likes, Memphis cannot deny his attraction, wham-bam thank you, ma’am! I mean, their chemistry was amazing and the smut scenes were incredibly hot, so I’m very happy I wasn’t denied smut!

If I had to find something to characterize “Sweet escape” it would be mostly fun. I had fun reading Vivian and Memphis giving up control for each other, exploring their feelings and finding something they loved when and where they least expected. It was fun reading their story and I just found myself smiling through the entire book and that’s the best! You don’t need to cry or feel your heart in your throat every time you read a book, sometimes all you need is a big smile from beginning to end and finishing the book feeling good!

The second book in the series and it’s FINALLY HERE!!!!

I’m obsessed with this series by Meredith Wild and Jillian Liota. An absolutely beautiful small town romance that captures Memphis’ story better than I could have ever imagined!

We first met Memphis in book one and I just knew he needed someone who showed him how to enjoy life! Enter his younger sister, Murphy’s best friend: Vivan. A celebrity musician, Vivian has chosen to escape to Hawthorne Vines to put distance between her life, her toxic ex, and what she wants for her future. Putting things in perspective proves to be just what both she and Memphis need, since he’s also struggling with how much he has on his plate with his family business.

Especially when they decide to *enjoy* what little free time they have with one another. I mean, what better way to avoid life’s problems than to enjoy a rather delicious distraction? HA!

I loved the cameos from Murphy and Wes, I loved watching these two characters help one another see what truly matters and also just how much more they deserve out of life, and I loved revisiting this town and this family.

You can definitely read them as standalones, but I recommend reading them in order to avoid spoilers! And the audio is FANTASTIC, so definitely check it out!

You’ll love this one if you enjoy:
- Best friend’s brother
- Forced proximity
- Fling to forever
- Only you
- Grumpy hero
- Sassy musician heroine
- Celebrity romance
- Small town vineyard
- No strings attached

Vivan Walsh is a rising singer-songwriter. After she discovers her boyfriend of three years cheated on her she needs to get away. She chooses to stay with her best friend Murphy at her family’s vineyard. She is looking for recovery and inspiration for new album. Murphy’s brother Memphis runs the struggling vineyard that has been in their family for generations. He is trying everything he can to make it profitable. He doesn’t have time for his sister’s flirty friend but their chemistry pulls them together.

The story, for the most part, takes place in a two week time period. So a lot of things feel rushed. I’m not fond of the theme of the way to get over someone is to get under someone else. But they are adults and are honest that neither is looking for a relationship. The story is told in alternating chapters from both leads' POVs.

By happenstance this is the third book I’ve read in as many weeks that is set in a small family vineyard. I did like the setting but thought the other books talked about winemaking better. This could have been almost any family business. The author’s are good at bringing heat between the couple. And I liked the friendship moments between Viviane and Murphy. This is the second in the Hawthorne Vines series and I liked Murphy enough to want to read her romance in ‘Bitter Truth’ (Aug 2024). I assume brother Micah will get the next romance. This is a quick read, escapism romance.

Absolutely loved this book! Memphis and Vivian are wonderful, lovable characters that you can’t help but wish the best for and for them to figure out a way to continue their “fun”. I loved their story so much and my heart felt so satisfied after finishing. It was sweet, sexy, and just everything you want in a romance. Will be going back to read the first book! This was a very enjoyable read.

I loved this story. Watching the heroine find her way after betrayal while circling the hero and trying to fight her true feelings. Great chemistry, well formed characters and a genuine feel made this a fantastic story. I’ll definitely be looking for more from these authors.

j'ai beaucoup aimé le contexte bien qu'il soit un peu difficile pour moi actuellement et les personnages qui nous donnent le sourire et nous font vibrer. Ils nous font vivre de chouettes moments en leur compagnie, j'ai aimé la manière dont ils se "réveillent" l'un l'autre et nous font découvrir leur histoire. Les pages se tournent très vite, parfois un peu trop vite et s'il n'y a pas de surprise, j'ai adoré l'évolution de Memphis et Vivian l'un avec l'autre. Une chouette romance contemporaine qui donne le sourire.

I loved being back at Hawthorne Vines, a piece of this place stayed with me after Bitter Truth with Murphy and Wes.
Sweet Escape follows Memphis and Vivian's story and what a wonderful one it is.
Vivian escapes to Rosewood after she discovered her boyfriend cheating on her. Her best friend Murphy's family own Hawthorne Vines where she is hoping to get away from everything and find some much needed inspiration for her album which she is due to record back in LA is 2 weeks.
She needs to heal and definitely not looking for any distractions until Murphy's brother Memphis walks in. She knows all about his moody ways and wants nothing to do with him - or does she.
Their attraction to each other is evident, neither one looking for a relationship, a one night stand can't hurt though and the spark between them is hot. Vivian suggests a friends with benefits deal until she has to return to LA. Memphis is happy as he doesn't have time for anything more but he soon finds himself distracted by her but in a good way.
When Vivian returns to LA is it a final goodbye.....I love a good enemies to lovers, best friends brother trope and this delivers it so well. Vivian is such a strong FMC, sassy and strong. Memphis went from being such a grump to a sweetheart, I love him.
I'm hoping for a 3rd book and would love it to be Micah's story.
Thank you NetGalley, Meredith Wild, & Jillian Liota and Montlake for this ARC, all opinions expressed are my own.

Sweet Escape is exactly what the title promises—a sweet, quick read that’s perfect as a palate cleanser when you need something light, refreshing, and to the point. The pacing keeps things moving, making it an easy book to devour in one sitting.

What really stood out to me was the setting. The authors did a fantastic job bringing the vineyard and the charming small town to life, creating a vivid backdrop that felt cozy and immersive. The scenery practically became its own character, adding an extra layer of warmth to the story.

Vivian and Memphis have great chemistry, and their banter adds a fun spark to the narrative. However, I was a bit confused by the enemies-to-lovers angle—it didn’t feel as fully fleshed out as I expected. Their dynamic seemed to lean more toward playful teasing than true animosity, which left me wondering if it was really an "enemies" situation at all.

That said, I genuinely enjoyed the book. It’s heartfelt, with just the right mix of romance and emotional growth. If you’re looking for a quick, feel-good story with a picturesque setting and engaging characters, Sweet Escape is a great choice.

DNFed this one early on. Wasn't a fan of the type of banter between the characters. I also felt like the authors were trying to hard to tell us the male MC did not like his current situation.

3 Stars Sweet Escape is an enemies-to-lovers, best friend's brother, small town romance, and the second book in the Hawthorne Vines series by authors Meredith Wild and Jillian Liota.

Armed with her guitar and a broken heart, Vivian Walsh shows up at her best friend's family vineyard to lick her wounds and find her muse again. Having found her longterm boyfriend cheating on her, singer-songwriter Vivian is struggling to work on her new album, which is due to record in a couple weeks. Vivian need to work without distractions, like Memphis Hawthorne, her best friend Murphy's older brother. Having initially gotten off on the wrong foot, Memphis and Vivian can't help but trade barbs at each other before the heat sizzles between them and they are giving in. Determined to keep things casual, they start sneaking around the vineyard. As Vivian's time winds down, neither can imagine actually having to say goodbye.

Memphis and Vivian were such a fun pair! They were complete opposites, yet complemented each other perfectly. I loved their natural chemistry and the banter whenever they spoke. In addition to their relationship, there's plenty of plot about the family drama at the vineyard. At just about 250 pages, Sweet Escape feels short without feeling too short. It keeps the pace moving nicely and is the perfect sweet little read. I'm excited for Micah's story up next!

Thank you Meredith Wild and Jillian Liota for the ARC! Sweet Escape releases February 4th!

4.5 Sweet Escape Vines🍇

Sweet Escape is the next book in the Hawthorne Vines series and this time focuses on Memphis and Vivian. We met Murphy in the previous book, Memphis is her older brother who is running everything at the Vineyard and Vivian is Murphy’s best friend from LA.

When Vivian’s boyfriend of three years cheats on her, she decides to escape to Rosewood to visit Murphy but also to find her muse…which she does in the form of the broody Memphis🙌 Loved this couple’s interactions and flirtatious behaviour…and that ending was perfect👌

I’m holding thumbs for a book for the youngest brother Micah next. I received an advanced copy from Netgalley and voluntarily leave my honest review❤️

✅ girl looking for a muse
✅ guy that’s carrying the weight of his families failing business
✅ beneficial banging

What else is missing… oh yes the “no feelings involved” ground rule 🙂‍↔️

I’ll eat up these types of scenarios in every book.👏🏼👏🏼

Vivian and Memphis were hot as hell. And I loved the banter they had from the get go. Vivian brought out a side of Memphis that he needed to let out!! Man’s has been spending so much time stressed about the family business.

I actually enjoyed this way more than I thought it would. It was fun, spicy, had great banter & I loved seeing the siblings come together when it really mattered.

<b>Do you want or need "Sweet Escape" from real life? Meredith Wild and Jillian Iota have one right here for you. Vivian and Memphis took us on an emotional rollercoaster. It has spice and passion. It has heartbreak and heartache. It has swoon and warmth. I loved every second of it!</b>

🎵 small town romance
🎵 enemies to lovers
🎵 opposites attract
🎵 grumpy sunshine
🎵 best friend's older brother
🎵 vacation fling

Vivian ran away from LA when she caught her cheating boyfriend and she came to Rosewood where her best friend has a family vineyard. She has to write more music for her upcoming first record and she is stuck. Memphis has a lot of burden on his shoulders. He is trying to revive the dying family business on his own. The last thing he needs is a relationship. But Vivian sparks something primal inside him. It was supposed to be just casual sex. But it never really is.

<b>Vivian is smart-ass and sassy and full of life. But all her life, she never let herself to be open to the people close to her. On the other hand, life has made him grumpy and brooding and closed off in a different way than Vivian. He barely has time to breathe from the vineyard and winery and restaurant and yet he feels he is failing and everything will crush down at any moment. Vivian didn't have nice ideas about him because her best friend said some not so nice things over the years because of the complex family dynamics so it's a bit rough initially. They have insane chemistry from first meeting. It cracks and sizzles and explodes. As they start spending some time together deciding to give into temptation, they find more things to like about each other. Memphis found himself worrying less about his endless task and feel excited about life again. Vivian lifted the weight from his heart. He is stubborn and edgy and didn't let anyone help him but he realised slowly that it's not the way. Vivian never felt as safe and content as she did in the small town. She came here with a broken heart and she found the healing kind of love. But no love story is complete without a bit heartache and angst. Vivian pushed Memphis away out of fear before Memphis could make her stay but she did come back home! I loved their witty banter and sharp words at the beginning. The chemistry was so hot. And I love how their hearts fit like missing puzzle pieces.</b>

I reviewed an early copy voluntarily

I received an arc from NetGalley and this is my honest opinion.

This was an okay read for me however the story sounded familiar like I have read this storyline before. The family dynamic of the story was great. I loved the ending and how the family came together and the love interest as well. Micah, Memphis and Murphy had to overcome and work through a lot of family issues but glad for the HEA ending.

Vivian was a force to be reckoned with and glad she got her HEA ending in the end as well.

4.5⭐
2 🌶️
Tropes/Themes: Bestie’s brother, With benefits, songwriter FMC, Winery owner MMC, snarky banter, opposites attract
Dual POV 1st person

I really really enjoyed this book- Vivian is hilarious, the banter is great and the chemistry between her and Memphis is amazing. It’s sweet and swoony and everything I love. Vivian’s snark had me laughing and cheering them on. I basically sat down and read this book in one day/setting, that’s how good it was. I do wish there had been more about why Viv hated him at first, but she seemed to get over it pretty quickly so that wasn’t a big deal. I also liked how the vineyard framed the story, and the push and pull for the two of them between their hearts and obligations.

Already added the first book in this series to my TBR!

In Sweet Escape by Meredith Wild and Jillian Liota, singer-songwriter Vivian Walsh visits her best friend, Murphy, after discovering her boyfriend’s infidelity. A night out leads her to a charming bartender—who turns out to be Murphy’s brother, Memphis Hawthorne. Their instant attraction was never meant to last beyond one night, but fate has other plans.

Memphis is focused on saving his family’s struggling vineyard, taking on any task necessary, including shifts at the restaurant’s bar. Meeting Vivian is an unexpected but welcome distraction. As their chemistry deepens, they must decide if they’re willing to take a chance on something real.

With sizzling romance, heartfelt emotion, and well-developed characters, Sweet Escape is a captivating love story filled with passion, witty banter, and just the right amount of drama.

5 Star Review Sweet Escape (Harvest Vines #2) by Meredith Wild & Jillian Liota

This was an entertaining romantic story that ticked the boxes for me. From the first chapter I was hooked on the story that was told. The characters were easy to relate to and I really liked them.

The chemistry between them was intense and I found myself laughing out loud on a number of occasions with the witty banter and humour.

The secondary characters were just as entertaining and I hope to see more of them at a future date.

This book is a little gem that I have no trouble recommending. The narrators certainly did justice to the characters and the wonderful story that the author created.

I received an ARC through the publisher and Netgalley.

This is an enjoyable story. The dynamic between Memphis and Vivien is flirty and fun.
Memphis is trying to keep the family business afloat. Vivien is an up and coming singer.
The story wasn't too long but still gave time to give the relationship between the two main characters substance.
I like a musical story background and also enjoyed the banter.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher