A Study in Sparkling

From the acclaimed author of An Academic Affair comes a steamy romance about a single mum who’s absolutely not looking for another relationship . . . only to fall for the younger owner of her favourite wine bar.

Fiona Fisher thought she had it all: a loving husband, three kids, and a life far away from the suffocating expectations of her family. But when her husband reveals that he's leaving her for his secret second family, Fiona is left devastated and humiliated.

Satoshi Tsukamoto wants it all. He’s the owner of a popular wine bar, and he’s studying for the hardest test in the world: the Master Sommelier exam. There aren’t enough hours in the day for anything else – except maybe Fiona, his favourite customer, and the woman he’s head-over-heels in love with.

On paper, Fiona and Satoshi make no sense. He’s eight years younger than her and has no time for romance. She’s a single mother and doesn't know if she'll ever be able to trust anyone again. But how can Fiona resist when Satoshi suggests they give into their mutual attraction to let off some steam? And how can Satoshi resist when the woman he adores is finally within his grasp – even if they’ve agreed to keep things casual?

© 2026 Simon & Schuster Australia (Audiobook): 9781761635229

Release date

Audiobook: 27 July 2026