How to Walk Away by Katherine Center

A NOVEL PAIRING because I love books and wine.

How to Walk Away by Katherine Center delivers a story of a young woman’s life after a horrible accident and subsequent recovery. Two impressions to sum up the attitude of this story: things are only as bad as you make them, and you’re never given more than you can handle. Maggie’s family’s interactions with each other added a second layer to this story, and I’m always in for family drama! This heartfelt story left me counting my blessings and applauding a young woman who lingered long after I closed the book. 

Maggie’s bubbly personality, a little bit snarky and 100% inspirational, had me popping open a bottle of Champagne. And she deserves the very best as she navigates bitter family secrets, a tainted old love, and a smooth new friend, all while learning to accept her new normal.

With every page I turned, I celebrated with Maggie, so not just any sparkling wine would do. I chose the complex yet traditional Pol Roger Brut Champagne --the wine of royalty. (It was the official Champagne of Harry and Megan’s wedding and William and Kate’s!) With “promising freshness, finesse, and balance,” it suits Maggie perfectly. The “expressive fruity flavors of lemon, grapefruit, peach, and mango add brightness,” as does Ian, Maggie’s physical therapist, throughout her recovery. A takeaway from this story: It takes love and time to improve on life, just like wine.

Cheers to Maggie and her future.