I was astonished to learn not only that there is wine being made in Missouri, but that Missouri was the epicenter of American wine more than a century ago — the Napa Valley of the 19th century, with more than a hundred wineries. It was a groundbreaking moment, for sure. The Norton’s success — it was pronounced one of the great red wines of the world at a world’s fair in Vienna, and won another big medal five years later, in Paris — occurred in the 1870s.

Alice Hoffman is a favorite among book groups and booksellers alike, and it’s a real treat to listen to her at one of her readings. If you’re not able to see her live, the next best thing is to listen to her read via podcast. Listen to Alice Hoffman read from The Story Sisters. Alice loves hearing from her readers! Leave a comment on Alice Hoffman’s guest book and join the conversation surrounding her remarkable work. It’s always fun to hear what other readers are saying, whether it’s about an author you haven’t read yet or a beloved favorite. Enjoy the conversation!

Madison Mandelbaum has a loving—though totally neurotic—family, and two fabulous girlfriends, and best of all, she’s head-over-heels in love with Colin Darcy, an investigative reporter for NBC, a distant relation to the Queen, and—most importantly—Maddie’s fiancé. With one week to go before the wedding, Maddie receives an anonymous email that suggests that her fiancé may not be the man she thinks he is. As sinister phone calls, text messages, and disturbing clues turn up, all linking Colin to the murder of a sexy call girl, Maddie realizes that she must get to the bottom of this. Fast.