Praise for "Vineyard of Lies"

Vineyard of Lies is perfect for readers who enjoy a murder mystery combined with ethical dilemmas and the breathtaking backdrop of winemaking in Italy. What impressed me most about the novel is how Deborah R. Dakins merges the protagonist's personal calamities with the mystery, giving Gina’s quest for truth more urgency. 

I love how the vineyards of Italy are depicted not just as a beautiful setting but as an echo of the story’s contradictions. This lush atmosphere is actually a cover for hidden decay, danger, and lies. Supporting characters, such as friends and associates, bring a warm energy to the story, while others add shadows of betrayal, doubt, and suspense to Gina's journey. Mystery fans will thoroughly enjoy this read.” – Keana Sacket Mooney, Readers Favorites, Five-Star Review

This book blends mystery, personal growth, and a touch of romance in a page-turning, heartfelt tale. We all must face hard choices, and after reading Deborah Dakins’s Vineyard of Lies, I found myself appreciating how Gina's struggles mirrored the reality that circumstances rarely fit neatly into one box. She was relatable since many people know that their judgments may not lead to ideal outcomes, yet they make decisions anyway.

I enjoyed how the romance was present without being the focus. I couldn’t put the book down until I found out what the next chapter could hold. The settings in wine country added richness, reminding me how places can shape both identity and opportunity. I also liked how the secondary characters felt real, each pushing Gina in a different direction without overshadowing her journey. This novel left me reflecting on resilience and how even flawed decisions can lead to unexpected growth.”—Jennifer Seinick, Readers Favorites, Five-Star Review

  “Vineyard of Lies" was a gentle change of pace for me as a reader, and I thoroughly appreciated the laid-back vibe of this story. Author Deborah R. Dakins has done a great job of setting the scene … 

Her lead character Gina Pagliaro … was easy to identify with and find empathy for, although, like her friends, it was easy to question some of her emotional decision-making at times. I particularly appreciated the opportunity the author used to educate less knowledgeable readers about the various types, varieties, processes, and pairings of wines and the industry. That gave the story great interest and depth. 

The author’s descriptive prose transports the reader to Italy’s vineyards to feel the salt air on their cheeks and smell the grapes. This is an enjoyable read that I highly recommend.” –Grant Leishman, Readers Favorites, Five-Star Review