Lush
Shortlisted for the Nero Book Award for Debut Fiction
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- $229.00
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- $229.00
Descripción editorial
A STYLIST BEST BOOK OF 2025
A DAZED MUST-READ NOVEL FOR 2025
A GQ MOST ANTICIPATED BOOK OF 2025
A TIMES BEST NEW BOOK
'A rich, full-bodied reading experience' Eliza Clark
'A sumptuous treat' Bolu Babalola
'Breathtaking ... dare I say, intoxicating' Okechukwu Nzelu
Four very different people, each at a crucial point in their lives, arrive at a French vineyard estate for a transformative experience - but not the kind they expected.
Wine influencer Avery has given up her exploitative but fiercely fought sommelier job to be here, hoping it will earn her the prestige and funds she needs to survive. Rising-star sommelier Cosmo comes from privilege but is struggling to conceal that his life is in freefall. Millionaire Sonny earns scorn for dabbling in his tacky supermarket wine brand, while caustic French critic Maëlys hovers, poised to record their indiscretions. Finally, there's the enigmatic Master, who relishes the sway he holds over his guests almost as much as his partner, Tao, resents it.
As glasses are emptied, rivalries fermented and secrets spilled, each must confront hard truths. Heady and subtly powerful, Lush is a bittersweet reckoning with class, beauty, hedonism and desire.
'Intoxicating' Times
'Hedonistic, Bacchanalian, lyrical and subtle, with a hint of tannic Sally Rooney wit' GQ
'Heady [and] sun-soaked' Dazed
PUBLISHERS WEEKLY
A spontaneous invitation to the South of France proves life-changing for four wine-industry insiders in Dowden-Lord's polished debut. When vintner Tao hears his aging husband, Jon, pitch an idea to invite a group of "new and exciting" oenophiles and tastemakers to their French vineyard, he's surprised to see the shy Jon come out of his shell, and agrees. All four guests will participate in blind tastings and be offered the chance to taste the world's oldest bottle of wine. Avery, a Londoner in her late 20s, is grateful for a break from the predatory manager at her restaurant. The handsome yet awkward Cosmo suddenly feels like his life is less stagnant when he meets and falls for Avery. The others include Sonny, the American owner of a so-so wine brand, and Maelys, a food writer who is immediately critical of Avery's presence and purpose at the gathering. The author skillfully juggles the many characters as they engage in competitive banter and exchange intimacies while awaiting the opportunity to taste the coveted final bottle, and the narrative finishes on a bittersweet and satisfying note. Wine enthusiasts will savor this.
