BLOG TOUR: You Had Me at Merlot by Lisa Dickenson - Book Review

You Had Me at Merlot is the new four-part digital romantic comedy from Lisa Dickenson. Lisa's 2013 debut novel, The Twelve Dates of Christmas, scooped the Novelicious Debut of the Year award, which made this new release even more exciting. You Had Me at Merlot is being released in four parts (part one is available now, part two on 21st July, part three on 28th July and part four on 4th August), and I was lucky enough to be sent a review copy of this hilarious novel in which two friends head to Tuscany for a singles' holiday.

Elle and Laurie are best friends with totally different outlooks on romance. Elle is perfectly happy with the way her life is; she's single and independent with a job she enjoys, and the single life suits her just fine. Laurie, on the other hand, is desperate to find Mr Right. And the sooner, the better.

When Laurie asks Elle to accompany her on a 'group' holiday to Tuscany, Elle is reluctant. After all, as fun as Laurie is making it seem, it's a singles' holiday - and a rather cheesy-sounding one at that. However, after some contemplation, and time with their happily-settled friends who are hoping to get the two single ladies up the aisle and pregnant as soon as they can, Elle finally agrees to the 'You Had Me at Merlot' package. After all, it's a vineyard in Tuscany. Beautiful sights, potential romance, and of course, plenty of wine.

With the chance of Italian sun, wine aplenty and her (slightly mad!) best friend for company, Elle heads off for the Merlot experience. What follows is laughter, adventure, and romance for the adamantly independent Elle...

Lisa Dickenson is a talented author, and it shows in You Had Me at Merlot. For anyone looking for a witty, romantic tale, this is the perfect read. I instantly loved Elle and her funny yet serious manner, a contrast to that of Laurie. You Had Me at Merlot is a wonderful book; hard to put down and full of laughs, friendship and the setting of gorgeous Tuscany. It's a highly recommended summer read.

Rating: 5/5

About the Author
LISA DICKENSON was born in the wrong body. She was definitely meant to be Beyonce. Despite this hardship, she grew up in Devon attempting to write her own, completely copyright-infringing versions of Sweet Valley High, before giving Wales a go for university, and then London a go for the celeb-spotting potential. She's now back in Devon, living beside the seaside with her husband and forcing cream teas down the mouths of anyone who'll visit. She is sadly still not Beyonce.

Lisa's first novel, The Twelve Dates of Christmas, winner of the Novelicious Debut of the Year Award, was an instant hit with readers who were won over by her wit, charm and naughty sense of humour - she's got her fingers crossed that everyone feels the same about You Had Me at Merlot. Follow her on Twitter for all her book news and Beyonce-related chatter: @LisaWritesStuff

You can read more about Lisa Dickenson and You Had Me at Merlot on Lisa's blog tour! Check the dates and blogs below for Lisa's daily stops.