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The Grazier's Son
When taking up an unexpected inheritance with an unhappy past, newcomer Stirling is daunted to find a town set against him. Except, perhaps, for one sassy, big-hearted woman, who is willing to give him a chance to prove he belongs. Pitch-perfect rural romance from popular Australian author Cathryn Hein.
When helicopter pilot Stirling Hawley travels to Grassmoor in Victoria's lush Western District to claim an inheritance, he doesn't expect to face a town that hates him.
Nor does he anticipate being saved from near-death by glamorous vintage clothing designer Darcy Sloane. Or that she'll take a personal interest in his recovery. But Grassmoor and Westwind, the historic mansion Stirling inherited from the father he never knew, prove full of surprises.
The more Stirling digs into his father's life, the more uneasy he becomes. Behind Dougal Kildare's respectable stock agent and farmer veneer was a man of secrets. While the fraud that devastated the community and led to Dougal's tragic death is one, there are others. And such things never stay buried forever...
As Stirling's suspicions about Dougal's death grow, danger creeps ever closer. Until it's not only Stirling's life in peril but the woman he's come to love.
PRAISE FOR THE COUNTRY GIRL
'The story is fun and the romance is a slow burn ... Cathryn Hein combines her love of romance and her love of cooking to give her readers yet another unmissable rural romance story.' - Burgeoning Bookshelf
'Cathryn Hein is one of my favourite authors and her rurals are always sweet with a bit of a sassy twist.' - 1girltoomanybooks
'Hein is an expert in rural romance stories and this one is no exception ... taking the reader on quite the tumultuous journey to happy ever after, expect some tears, laughter and that tingly feeling in your heart.' - Mrs B's Book Reviews
When helicopter pilot Stirling Hawley travels to Grassmoor in Victoria's lush Western District to claim an inheritance, he doesn't expect to face a town that hates him.
Nor does he anticipate being saved from near-death by glamorous vintage clothing designer Darcy Sloane. Or that she'll take a personal interest in his recovery. But Grassmoor and Westwind, the historic mansion Stirling inherited from the father he never knew, prove full of surprises.
The more Stirling digs into his father's life, the more uneasy he becomes. Behind Dougal Kildare's respectable stock agent and farmer veneer was a man of secrets. While the fraud that devastated the community and led to Dougal's tragic death is one, there are others. And such things never stay buried forever...
As Stirling's suspicions about Dougal's death grow, danger creeps ever closer. Until it's not only Stirling's life in peril but the woman he's come to love.
PRAISE FOR THE COUNTRY GIRL
'The story is fun and the romance is a slow burn ... Cathryn Hein combines her love of romance and her love of cooking to give her readers yet another unmissable rural romance story.' - Burgeoning Bookshelf
'Cathryn Hein is one of my favourite authors and her rurals are always sweet with a bit of a sassy twist.' - 1girltoomanybooks
'Hein is an expert in rural romance stories and this one is no exception ... taking the reader on quite the tumultuous journey to happy ever after, expect some tears, laughter and that tingly feeling in your heart.' - Mrs B's Book Reviews
406 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 1, 2024
15 people are currently reading
105 people want to read
About the author
Cathryn Hein
34 books173 followersCathryn Hein is a best-selling author of rural romance and romantic adventure novels, a Romance Writers of Australia Romantic Book of the Year finalist with Santa and the Saddler, and a regular Australian Romance Reader Awards finalist.
A South Australian country girl by birth, Cathryn loves nothing more than a rugged rural hero who’s as good with his heart as he is with his hands, which is probably why she writes them! Her romances are warm and emotional, and feature themes that don’t flinch from the tougher side of life but are often happily tempered by the antics of naughty animals. Her aim is to make you smile, sigh, and perhaps sniffle a little, but most of all feel wonderful.
Cathryn lives in Newcastle, Australia with her partner of many years, Jim. When she’s not writing, she plays golf (ineptly), cooks (well), and in football season barracks (rowdily) for her beloved Sydney Swans AFL team.
Do you love free stories? Join my newsletter team for new release news, teasers, book sales and more, along with access to my collection of smile-inducing romantic short stories.
A South Australian country girl by birth, Cathryn loves nothing more than a rugged rural hero who’s as good with his heart as he is with his hands, which is probably why she writes them! Her romances are warm and emotional, and feature themes that don’t flinch from the tougher side of life but are often happily tempered by the antics of naughty animals. Her aim is to make you smile, sigh, and perhaps sniffle a little, but most of all feel wonderful.
Cathryn lives in Newcastle, Australia with her partner of many years, Jim. When she’s not writing, she plays golf (ineptly), cooks (well), and in football season barracks (rowdily) for her beloved Sydney Swans AFL team.
Do you love free stories? Join my newsletter team for new release news, teasers, book sales and more, along with access to my collection of smile-inducing romantic short stories.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 57 reviews
April 17, 2024
EXCERPT: In the end, the grave wasn't hard to find. It lay in the shadow of the tallest, most ostentatious monument in the cemetery, as dark, plain and flat as its neighbour was lofty, light and gaudy. The slab sported a single ugly embellishment - a coarse brown block erupting from its polished granite surface. where the epitaph should have read 'Rest in Peace' someone had stuck a clumsily engraved hunk of brick over 'Peace' to make the epitaph read 'Rest in Hell'.
ABOUT 'THE GRAZIER'S SON': When taking up an unexpected inheritance with an unhappy past, newcomer Stirling is daunted to find a town set against him. Except, perhaps, for one sassy, big-hearted woman, who is willing to give him a chance to prove he belongs. Pitch-perfect rural romance from popular Australian author Cathryn Hein.
When helicopter pilot Stirling Hawley travels to Grassmoor in Victoria's lush Western District to claim an inheritance, he doesn't expect to face a town that hates him.
Nor does he anticipate being saved from near-death by glamorous vintage clothing designer Darcy Sloane. Or that she'll take a personal interest in his recovery. But Grassmoor and Westwind, the historic mansion Stirling inherited from the father he never knew, prove full of surprises.
The more Stirling digs into his father's life, the more uneasy he becomes. Behind Dougal Kildare's respectable stock agent and farmer veneer was a man of secrets. While the fraud that devastated the community and led to Dougal's tragic death is one, there are others. And such things never stay buried forever...
As Stirling's suspicions about Dougal's death grow, danger creeps ever closer. Until it's not only Stirling's life in peril but the woman he's come to love.
MY THOUGHTS: Cathryn Hein ripped my heart to shreds not once, but twice. Beautifully written, The Grazier's Son is the perfect combination of romance and Australian Outback mystery/crime thriller.
I had all the emotions reading this. Not only is the plot superbly tight, but the characters captivated my heart. I felt Stirling's pain, and his joy; Darcy's passion and exuberance - if you love stories about strong women, you'll love Darcy; she's strong and soft all in one! The supporting characters of Toby, Gav, Lissette and Shiloh all have distinct personalities and clear roles to play. Everyone needs a friend like Lissette!
Small towns like Grassmoor have their pluses and negatives - everyone knows everyone's business and they all stick together. In this case they shun Stirling, not that they know him, but for his father's crime. And it seems that, even for all of Darcy's defiance in standing up to them, not even she is able to sway their stance. Rumors abound and strange things happen at the homestead.
There is plenty of action, including in the bedroom - but don't worry it's all closed door.
I loved this book, my first by this author. It won't be my last. I felt very emotional while reading The Grazier's Son. I choked up in places, my eyes glistening with tears, and was tense with fingernails digging into my palms in others. I enjoyed the sensual, sensitive treatment of the love scenes and cried freely twice as the author ripped my heart to shreds.
The perfect read.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
#TheGraziersSon #NetGalley
THE AUTHOR: A South Australian country girl by birth, Cathryn loves nothing more than a rugged rural hero who’s as good with his heart as he is with his hands, which is probably why she writes them! Her romances are warm and emotional, and feature themes that don’t flinch from the tougher side of life but are often happily tempered by the antics of naughty animals. Her aim is to make you smile, sigh, and perhaps sniffle a little, but most of all feel wonderful.
Cathryn lives in Newcastle, Australia with her partner of many years, Jim. When she’s not writing, she plays golf (ineptly), cooks (well), and in football season barracks (rowdily) for her beloved Sydney Swans AFL team.
DISCLOSURE: Thank you to Harlequin Australia, HQ & MIRA, via NetGalley for providing a digital ARC of The Grazier's Son for review. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own personal opinions.
https://sandysbookaday.wordpress.com/...
ABOUT 'THE GRAZIER'S SON': When taking up an unexpected inheritance with an unhappy past, newcomer Stirling is daunted to find a town set against him. Except, perhaps, for one sassy, big-hearted woman, who is willing to give him a chance to prove he belongs. Pitch-perfect rural romance from popular Australian author Cathryn Hein.
When helicopter pilot Stirling Hawley travels to Grassmoor in Victoria's lush Western District to claim an inheritance, he doesn't expect to face a town that hates him.
Nor does he anticipate being saved from near-death by glamorous vintage clothing designer Darcy Sloane. Or that she'll take a personal interest in his recovery. But Grassmoor and Westwind, the historic mansion Stirling inherited from the father he never knew, prove full of surprises.
The more Stirling digs into his father's life, the more uneasy he becomes. Behind Dougal Kildare's respectable stock agent and farmer veneer was a man of secrets. While the fraud that devastated the community and led to Dougal's tragic death is one, there are others. And such things never stay buried forever...
As Stirling's suspicions about Dougal's death grow, danger creeps ever closer. Until it's not only Stirling's life in peril but the woman he's come to love.
MY THOUGHTS: Cathryn Hein ripped my heart to shreds not once, but twice. Beautifully written, The Grazier's Son is the perfect combination of romance and Australian Outback mystery/crime thriller.
I had all the emotions reading this. Not only is the plot superbly tight, but the characters captivated my heart. I felt Stirling's pain, and his joy; Darcy's passion and exuberance - if you love stories about strong women, you'll love Darcy; she's strong and soft all in one! The supporting characters of Toby, Gav, Lissette and Shiloh all have distinct personalities and clear roles to play. Everyone needs a friend like Lissette!
Small towns like Grassmoor have their pluses and negatives - everyone knows everyone's business and they all stick together. In this case they shun Stirling, not that they know him, but for his father's crime. And it seems that, even for all of Darcy's defiance in standing up to them, not even she is able to sway their stance. Rumors abound and strange things happen at the homestead.
There is plenty of action, including in the bedroom - but don't worry it's all closed door.
I loved this book, my first by this author. It won't be my last. I felt very emotional while reading The Grazier's Son. I choked up in places, my eyes glistening with tears, and was tense with fingernails digging into my palms in others. I enjoyed the sensual, sensitive treatment of the love scenes and cried freely twice as the author ripped my heart to shreds.
The perfect read.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
#TheGraziersSon #NetGalley
THE AUTHOR: A South Australian country girl by birth, Cathryn loves nothing more than a rugged rural hero who’s as good with his heart as he is with his hands, which is probably why she writes them! Her romances are warm and emotional, and feature themes that don’t flinch from the tougher side of life but are often happily tempered by the antics of naughty animals. Her aim is to make you smile, sigh, and perhaps sniffle a little, but most of all feel wonderful.
Cathryn lives in Newcastle, Australia with her partner of many years, Jim. When she’s not writing, she plays golf (ineptly), cooks (well), and in football season barracks (rowdily) for her beloved Sydney Swans AFL team.
DISCLOSURE: Thank you to Harlequin Australia, HQ & MIRA, via NetGalley for providing a digital ARC of The Grazier's Son for review. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own personal opinions.
https://sandysbookaday.wordpress.com/...
February 26, 2024
Stirling Hawley is a helicopter pilot, he flew Blackhawks in the army and later worked dropping medical staff into disaster and war zones and he was based in Germany. He’s shocked when he inherits a property from his deceased father Dougal Kildare, it’s in rural Victoria and called Westwind and it’s near a little town called Grassmoor.
Dougal was a stock agent in Grassmoor, before he died he’d been slowly siphoning money from his clients and no one knows where it’s gone, many of them considered him a mate and friend and Stirling doesn’t get a very warm welcome when he arrives in town. The only person who's nice to him is Darcy Sloan, her parents own a property near his, she runs a shop in town called Vavoom, and she makes retro fashion and sells most of her clothes online. Darcy is stunning, quirky, wears her own creations and models them for her website and Stirling has never met anyone like her before.
When Stirling has an accident, it’s Darcy who finds him and she feels compelled to help him and she’s driving past anyway! Once he’s able Stirling starts looking around Westwind, it’s been vandalized and sprayed with graffiti, he gets the feeling that someone has been in the house when he's not home and does he just have an over active imagination? Despite not knowing his father, somethings he did and they don't make any sense, like ripping off his friends, money laundering and how he died, and then he finds his grandfathers detailed account books and he discovers long buried secrets.
I received a copy of The Grazier's Son by Cathryn Hein from NetGalley and Harlequin Australia in exchange for an honest review. This is the first book I have read by the bestselling rural romance and romantic adventure novel author and it won’t be my last.
All great stories need memorable and authentic characters, no shortage of these in this well written and compelling plot, my favourites were Stirling, Darcy, Gavin, Toby, Lissette, Shiloh and Leo. I liked how the narrative was a combination of what it’s like to live in a small Australian country town and community, with the elements of mystery to keep the reader guessing and a sizzling hot budding love story. Add in football, meat pies and a grand final, and the steamy and sexy chemistry between Stirling and Darcy, it makes for an all-round winner for me and five big stars.
Dougal was a stock agent in Grassmoor, before he died he’d been slowly siphoning money from his clients and no one knows where it’s gone, many of them considered him a mate and friend and Stirling doesn’t get a very warm welcome when he arrives in town. The only person who's nice to him is Darcy Sloan, her parents own a property near his, she runs a shop in town called Vavoom, and she makes retro fashion and sells most of her clothes online. Darcy is stunning, quirky, wears her own creations and models them for her website and Stirling has never met anyone like her before.
When Stirling has an accident, it’s Darcy who finds him and she feels compelled to help him and she’s driving past anyway! Once he’s able Stirling starts looking around Westwind, it’s been vandalized and sprayed with graffiti, he gets the feeling that someone has been in the house when he's not home and does he just have an over active imagination? Despite not knowing his father, somethings he did and they don't make any sense, like ripping off his friends, money laundering and how he died, and then he finds his grandfathers detailed account books and he discovers long buried secrets.
I received a copy of The Grazier's Son by Cathryn Hein from NetGalley and Harlequin Australia in exchange for an honest review. This is the first book I have read by the bestselling rural romance and romantic adventure novel author and it won’t be my last.
All great stories need memorable and authentic characters, no shortage of these in this well written and compelling plot, my favourites were Stirling, Darcy, Gavin, Toby, Lissette, Shiloh and Leo. I liked how the narrative was a combination of what it’s like to live in a small Australian country town and community, with the elements of mystery to keep the reader guessing and a sizzling hot budding love story. Add in football, meat pies and a grand final, and the steamy and sexy chemistry between Stirling and Darcy, it makes for an all-round winner for me and five big stars.
March 21, 2024
I have been waiting for a new Cathryn Hein story for a while and this one was worth the wait, OMG it is brilliant, this is one of the best rural romances that I have read with awesome character and it has mystery and a some danger added in to make it a must read, a page turner and one not to be missed.
When helicopter pilot Stirling Hawley is left a property, Westwind in the small town of Grassmoor in country Victoria by the father he knew of but had never met he is recovering from an accident, but is keen to discover his inheritance, what he doesn’t expect is the towns attitude towards him, they hate him, but he is determined to explore his new property.
After arriving an accident sees him in a bit of trouble the last thing he expects is to be saved by a beautiful woman, dressed in a gorgeous vintage dress which helps save him she introduces herself as Darcy Sloane, vintage designer, neighbour and now thoroughly invested in his care.
Stirling soon learns that Darcy is true to her word and makes visits to the hospital and is there to help, and soon they are good friends, Stirling learns a lot about the town, Westwind and his father from Darcy and starts to look into the reasons for his father Dougal Kildare’s death and the case of fraud against him, wondering what has happened to the money that has gone missing.
But with his investigation uncovering secrets from the past danger starts builds, is he getting close to discovering the truth, will the people he loves be threatened? He and Darcy are growing closer and their love is growing by the day and he must protect her at all costs.
This is an absolutely brilliant story I loved it from the start, it is sensual, moving and filled with emotion. Stirling is an awesome hero he has been through so much he deserves love and happiness and sassy, strong and beautiful Darcy is just the right person for him, add in the other fabulous characters Lissette, Toby, Gavin and Shiloh and this is a story that is not to be missed. The fashions the epilogue are the best. Thank you MS Hein for another keeper, woohoo this one left me smiling.
My thanks to the publisher Harlequin AU for my copy to read and review.
When helicopter pilot Stirling Hawley is left a property, Westwind in the small town of Grassmoor in country Victoria by the father he knew of but had never met he is recovering from an accident, but is keen to discover his inheritance, what he doesn’t expect is the towns attitude towards him, they hate him, but he is determined to explore his new property.
After arriving an accident sees him in a bit of trouble the last thing he expects is to be saved by a beautiful woman, dressed in a gorgeous vintage dress which helps save him she introduces herself as Darcy Sloane, vintage designer, neighbour and now thoroughly invested in his care.
Stirling soon learns that Darcy is true to her word and makes visits to the hospital and is there to help, and soon they are good friends, Stirling learns a lot about the town, Westwind and his father from Darcy and starts to look into the reasons for his father Dougal Kildare’s death and the case of fraud against him, wondering what has happened to the money that has gone missing.
But with his investigation uncovering secrets from the past danger starts builds, is he getting close to discovering the truth, will the people he loves be threatened? He and Darcy are growing closer and their love is growing by the day and he must protect her at all costs.
This is an absolutely brilliant story I loved it from the start, it is sensual, moving and filled with emotion. Stirling is an awesome hero he has been through so much he deserves love and happiness and sassy, strong and beautiful Darcy is just the right person for him, add in the other fabulous characters Lissette, Toby, Gavin and Shiloh and this is a story that is not to be missed. The fashions the epilogue are the best. Thank you MS Hein for another keeper, woohoo this one left me smiling.
My thanks to the publisher Harlequin AU for my copy to read and review.
March 28, 2024
ARC received from Harper Collins Australia for an honest review
Let me first say that I am not usually that big on rural romances - been the city girl who moved to a small country town, got the tshirt to prove it - but there was something about the blurb that made me want to dive right in.
And also, as Cathryn Hein is a new to me author, I went in with no expectations at all.
However I really enjoyed The Grazier's Son.
As a blow in to a new town, I totally got the vibe of walking into the pub or store and having everyone look at you (not with the vitriol that Stirling copped, but I get it).
And Darcy is just like my friend in town, who wasn't a friend at the time, but knew I was moving to town, and drove past my house every day to see if I was here yet, and now is one of my most wonderful friends. You get those people who just don't care what everyone else says and makes up their own mind.
And I gotta say, this small of Grassmoor did an amazing job of keeping secrets haha. That, I will say, does not happen in small towns. The gossip and rumour mills run rife, just like the did in Grassmoor. But then, they also gather around and protect their own, just like the do in Grassmoor.
I just get the vibe of the whole place.
I enjoyed Darcy and Stirling's journey, liked how they worked things out with what had happened with his father. Thought the way that their found family had each other's backs.
And loved that they loved. Loved how they loved.
I really did thoroughly enjoy their story, and would like more of the secondary characters.
And I will be reading more Cathryn Hein in the future.
Let me first say that I am not usually that big on rural romances - been the city girl who moved to a small country town, got the tshirt to prove it - but there was something about the blurb that made me want to dive right in.
And also, as Cathryn Hein is a new to me author, I went in with no expectations at all.
However I really enjoyed The Grazier's Son.
As a blow in to a new town, I totally got the vibe of walking into the pub or store and having everyone look at you (not with the vitriol that Stirling copped, but I get it).
And Darcy is just like my friend in town, who wasn't a friend at the time, but knew I was moving to town, and drove past my house every day to see if I was here yet, and now is one of my most wonderful friends. You get those people who just don't care what everyone else says and makes up their own mind.
And I gotta say, this small of Grassmoor did an amazing job of keeping secrets haha. That, I will say, does not happen in small towns. The gossip and rumour mills run rife, just like the did in Grassmoor. But then, they also gather around and protect their own, just like the do in Grassmoor.
I just get the vibe of the whole place.
I enjoyed Darcy and Stirling's journey, liked how they worked things out with what had happened with his father. Thought the way that their found family had each other's backs.
And loved that they loved. Loved how they loved.
I really did thoroughly enjoy their story, and would like more of the secondary characters.
And I will be reading more Cathryn Hein in the future.
February 29, 2024
Thank you to #netgalley, the publishers and Cathryn for allowing me to review this book.
Stirling has had his life thrown a curve ball with 3 major incidents occurring.
Coming to Westwind and finding what his father's life was about was meant to be short. But Stirling needs to rest.
This story shows many characters lives and how they are all interlinked and become part of Stirling and his new life.
This is the best book by Cathryn Hein and shows that life is never clean cut.
Stirling has had his life thrown a curve ball with 3 major incidents occurring.
Coming to Westwind and finding what his father's life was about was meant to be short. But Stirling needs to rest.
This story shows many characters lives and how they are all interlinked and become part of Stirling and his new life.
This is the best book by Cathryn Hein and shows that life is never clean cut.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 3, 2024
Well done Cathryn Hein 👏 I loved and devoured this one. This is Australian rural romance writing at its finest!
The writing had the perfect mix of slow burn romance, mystery and intrigue. An unassuming and lost MMC, a sassy and unapologetic FMC and host of perfect side characters made for a fabulous and unputdownable read!
The unexpected inheritance of a beautiful historic mansion from a father he didn’t know, sees Stirling Hawley arrive in the town of Grassmoor in Victoria’s Western District. He is an outsider in a town that set against him thanks to his father’s fraud against the community and as a reader you can really sympathize with how this would make him feel.
While exploring his new home Stirling is saved from near-death by glamorous vintage clothing designer Darcy Sloane who becomes invested in his recovery. And oh my gosh is it not a good time watching her push Stirling out of his comfort zone as things unfold between them 😂
There are lots of surprises that unfold as Stirling digs into his father's life, and he soon finds that things never stay buried forever...because danger creeps ever closer and threatens the woman he's come to love. This was such a great read. I feel like the crime/mystery part of this story was just as prominent as the romance side. I HIGHLY recommend you grab a copy of this when it’s released on April 3 2024. I’ll be first in line for a print copy 🙋🏼♀️
Thank you NetGalley, Harlequin Australia, HQ Fiction and MIRA for an advance copy of this book in return for an honest review.
The writing had the perfect mix of slow burn romance, mystery and intrigue. An unassuming and lost MMC, a sassy and unapologetic FMC and host of perfect side characters made for a fabulous and unputdownable read!
The unexpected inheritance of a beautiful historic mansion from a father he didn’t know, sees Stirling Hawley arrive in the town of Grassmoor in Victoria’s Western District. He is an outsider in a town that set against him thanks to his father’s fraud against the community and as a reader you can really sympathize with how this would make him feel.
While exploring his new home Stirling is saved from near-death by glamorous vintage clothing designer Darcy Sloane who becomes invested in his recovery. And oh my gosh is it not a good time watching her push Stirling out of his comfort zone as things unfold between them 😂
There are lots of surprises that unfold as Stirling digs into his father's life, and he soon finds that things never stay buried forever...because danger creeps ever closer and threatens the woman he's come to love. This was such a great read. I feel like the crime/mystery part of this story was just as prominent as the romance side. I HIGHLY recommend you grab a copy of this when it’s released on April 3 2024. I’ll be first in line for a print copy 🙋🏼♀️
Thank you NetGalley, Harlequin Australia, HQ Fiction and MIRA for an advance copy of this book in return for an honest review.
April 22, 2024
Thank you Harlequin for sending us a copy to read and review.
A journey into the south west district of Victoria is like a drive to town for me as it’s in my backyard and area I am very familiar with.
A combination of country hospitality and the rather real local small mindedness creates an authenticity that is enhanced by a plot with twists and turns.
Stirling arrives into the district of Grassmoor to claim his inheritance, a renowned pastoralist homestead and land.
A father he did not know has died and has left an unfavourable legacy in the small town.
The level of hate unbelievable as money and trust was stolen from the people.
Darcy lets kindness and humanity guide her in helping Stirling when he is injured and forging a relationship that will jeopardise her socially and put her life at risk.
As events unfold suspicion arises, danger lurks and the truth is revealed.
An element of mystery threaded through and meticulous peripheral detail allows all readers to enjoy the district and the plot.
Strong female leads with an abundance of commonsense and resolve stand out.
I particularly liked a secondary character named Shiloh and it’s this infusion that makes a great read.
A journey into the south west district of Victoria is like a drive to town for me as it’s in my backyard and area I am very familiar with.
A combination of country hospitality and the rather real local small mindedness creates an authenticity that is enhanced by a plot with twists and turns.
Stirling arrives into the district of Grassmoor to claim his inheritance, a renowned pastoralist homestead and land.
A father he did not know has died and has left an unfavourable legacy in the small town.
The level of hate unbelievable as money and trust was stolen from the people.
Darcy lets kindness and humanity guide her in helping Stirling when he is injured and forging a relationship that will jeopardise her socially and put her life at risk.
As events unfold suspicion arises, danger lurks and the truth is revealed.
An element of mystery threaded through and meticulous peripheral detail allows all readers to enjoy the district and the plot.
Strong female leads with an abundance of commonsense and resolve stand out.
I particularly liked a secondary character named Shiloh and it’s this infusion that makes a great read.
June 8, 2024
My first time reading a Cathryn Hein novel, easy read, the romance is between Stirling a helicopter pilot who discovers he's inherited a property, after his father's death, and Darcy a local woman who runs an online hand-made vintage clothing boutique.
There's a lovely cast of characters, some tension/suspense from a mystery that needs to be solve. It was the perfect balanced of discovery of a family legacy and learning to love again.
This was such a great read.
June 5, 2024
Stirling Hawley grew up not knowing too much about his father. So, he was surprised to learn of the inheritance bestowed upon him. The helicopter pilot has been taken off active duty after a tragic incident, so what's a better time to travel to Grassmoor to stake his claim?
Just one mention about his father and the environment turns hostile. Good old Dad wasn't popular at all, not after embezzling thousands out of the tight-knit community. Poor Stirling. A simple newcomer and the entire population are hostile. Meh. Stirling wasn't planning to stay in the lush Victorian town for long anyway.
That's until he manages to injure himself whilst exploring what his new abode, Westwind, has to offer, and a stunning woman comes to his rescue. Darcy Sloane grew up on the property next door, is the local Queen of Seam, owner of retro fashion business VaVoom, possesses a heart of gold, and is 100% invested in Stirling's recovery. Oh, she's set out to prove to anyone and everyone that Stirling is nothing like his father, Dougal Kildare.
Perhaps Stirling is finding a reason to stay, to start mapping out a future, after all. He's got the girl of his dreams. The sprawling mansion is beginning to feel like home. Heck, even the townsfolk are beginning to warm up to him. Lastly, Stirling's starting to gain insight surrounding his parentage and heritage - not all of it good. In a small community like this, gossip runs rife and scars cut deep. Still, Stirling is convinced that nothing sits right concerning his father's suicide and that someone out there would do anything to keep him quiet...
Cathryn Hein, you've gained yourself a new fan with The Grazier's Son. There's nothing quite like a great Aussie rural fiction, especially when a romance is involved. Gah, Hot Pilot and the Queen of Seam are just... everything. I love how fiercely they love another.
I need either a Lisette/Toby or Shiloh/Leo story in the future so I can revisit this universe!
4.75 🌟
Just one mention about his father and the environment turns hostile. Good old Dad wasn't popular at all, not after embezzling thousands out of the tight-knit community. Poor Stirling. A simple newcomer and the entire population are hostile. Meh. Stirling wasn't planning to stay in the lush Victorian town for long anyway.
That's until he manages to injure himself whilst exploring what his new abode, Westwind, has to offer, and a stunning woman comes to his rescue. Darcy Sloane grew up on the property next door, is the local Queen of Seam, owner of retro fashion business VaVoom, possesses a heart of gold, and is 100% invested in Stirling's recovery. Oh, she's set out to prove to anyone and everyone that Stirling is nothing like his father, Dougal Kildare.
Perhaps Stirling is finding a reason to stay, to start mapping out a future, after all. He's got the girl of his dreams. The sprawling mansion is beginning to feel like home. Heck, even the townsfolk are beginning to warm up to him. Lastly, Stirling's starting to gain insight surrounding his parentage and heritage - not all of it good. In a small community like this, gossip runs rife and scars cut deep. Still, Stirling is convinced that nothing sits right concerning his father's suicide and that someone out there would do anything to keep him quiet...
Cathryn Hein, you've gained yourself a new fan with The Grazier's Son. There's nothing quite like a great Aussie rural fiction, especially when a romance is involved. Gah, Hot Pilot and the Queen of Seam are just... everything. I love how fiercely they love another.
I need either a Lisette/Toby or Shiloh/Leo story in the future so I can revisit this universe!
4.75 🌟
May 12, 2024
Stirling has come into an inheritance from a father he's never known. Because of his work background, things just don't add up with his late father's suicide. He is also having issues with the town folks' anger against him due to his father's doings.
As Stirling is working out his problems along comes bright, talented, and passionate seamstress Darcy, who knocks him off his feet.
A wonderful, slow burn rural romance amongst a mysterious suicide that needs investigating so Stirling can find out who he is.
Loved this book so much ❤️
As Stirling is working out his problems along comes bright, talented, and passionate seamstress Darcy, who knocks him off his feet.
A wonderful, slow burn rural romance amongst a mysterious suicide that needs investigating so Stirling can find out who he is.
Loved this book so much ❤️
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 22, 2024
Beautifully layered story with well-rounded characters. Adored Darcy and Shiloh and Lissette. Love a girl-posse. Stirling had me from the get-go but Gavin and Toby came to life on the page for me too. And the homestead. I could picture it, walked through it, fell in love with it. A fabulous story that kept me guessing. Well done Cathryn Hein! Oh - lets not forget Darcy and her outfits - I could picture them all! Love a young business woman.
May 4, 2024
Now this was an awesome book. I couldn’t put it down. It had a bit of everything in it and I loved the characters and adored Darcy’s character. First time reading this author. Off I go to find her other books
May 2, 2024
Is Unputtadownable a word?
Definitely one of my most favourite Cathryn Hein books. This had me turning pages soo fast to see what was going to happen. Brilliant book.
Definitely one of my most favourite Cathryn Hein books. This had me turning pages soo fast to see what was going to happen. Brilliant book.
October 4, 2024
Good easy light read but does have a "cheese" factor to it unfortunately
December 23, 2024
Loved the idea of this book but it felt way too rushed at the end.
July 26, 2024
I found The Grazier’s Son particularly enjoyable – it’s nominally a rural romance, but it doesn’t stay within that genre, and it’s all the better for it. This might just as well be called a mystery novel with romance. Readers of both genres are likely to find something to enjoy here.
Darcy has always stood out in her small Victorian town, with her love of 1950s clothes and her vivacity. Although she causes a few raised eyebrows, she’s solidly woven into the town, with a long family history and a lot of community involvement.
But when she offers a friendly face to Stirling Hawley she finds herself dealing with more than a raised eyebrow or two. Stirling has come to claim the property he’s inherited from the father he never met. A father who had a reputation as a beloved and respected part of the community, until he defrauded multiple people of millions of dollars and committed suicide.
Stirling soon finds that the property and his father’s life are full of secrets. The more of these he uncovers, the more uneasy he is about his father’s death. At the same time, his attraction to Darcy is forcing him to take a good hard look at things in his own past.
This is a very well written novel that neatly incorporates the tropes of two genres – mystery and rural romance – to create a solid story that feels believable. The setting is well drawn, both vivid and realistic.
The mystery plays out in a way that integrates well with the beats of the romance. I was engrossed in both, and although there are a few things that are a touch obvious, it was an absorbing read. It’s an interesting plot that should engage your attention.
The characters are also entirely believable, with believable problems. Readers will empathise with both Darcy and Stirling, and probably care quite a bit about what happens to them. Supporting characters are also well drawn and feel real.
This feels a bit more substantial, content wise, than some romances. However, I still found it a relatively light and diverting read. I enjoyed it immensely, in part because of that blend of genres. Highly recommended.
If you enjoyed this review, please visit www.otherdreamsotherlives.home.blog to read more.
Darcy has always stood out in her small Victorian town, with her love of 1950s clothes and her vivacity. Although she causes a few raised eyebrows, she’s solidly woven into the town, with a long family history and a lot of community involvement.
But when she offers a friendly face to Stirling Hawley she finds herself dealing with more than a raised eyebrow or two. Stirling has come to claim the property he’s inherited from the father he never met. A father who had a reputation as a beloved and respected part of the community, until he defrauded multiple people of millions of dollars and committed suicide.
Stirling soon finds that the property and his father’s life are full of secrets. The more of these he uncovers, the more uneasy he is about his father’s death. At the same time, his attraction to Darcy is forcing him to take a good hard look at things in his own past.
This is a very well written novel that neatly incorporates the tropes of two genres – mystery and rural romance – to create a solid story that feels believable. The setting is well drawn, both vivid and realistic.
The mystery plays out in a way that integrates well with the beats of the romance. I was engrossed in both, and although there are a few things that are a touch obvious, it was an absorbing read. It’s an interesting plot that should engage your attention.
The characters are also entirely believable, with believable problems. Readers will empathise with both Darcy and Stirling, and probably care quite a bit about what happens to them. Supporting characters are also well drawn and feel real.
This feels a bit more substantial, content wise, than some romances. However, I still found it a relatively light and diverting read. I enjoyed it immensely, in part because of that blend of genres. Highly recommended.
If you enjoyed this review, please visit www.otherdreamsotherlives.home.blog to read more.
August 3, 2025
This is Stirling’s story but Darcy steals the show….
For me, The Grazier’s Son wasn’t just a rural romance, it was also a mystery, thriller, crime and drama. Full of historical mystery and nostalgia, new romance and fractured romance, friendships and family, and an amazing array of colourful and stylish outfits.
Not all of Grassmoor, actually you’d be more correct if you said most of Grassmoor don’t welcome Stirling when he arrives to take possession of his inheritance from a father that he never knew. The hostility just radiates from the town and its residents, and not for anything that Stirling has done, but more because of his family tree.
The one person that goes above and beyond to save Stirling, make him feel welcome and help him realise that he may be able to build a future at Westwind, is Darcy. She’s invested and willing to look out for her investment.
The characters in the story are larger-than-life with many of them coming to the forefront, making you smile and showing you their very unique personalities.
I really enjoyed following Stirling along and loved seeing the change in his thoughts and emotions as Darcy inserts herself into his life and heart. Darcy comes directly at you, making no excuses for her colourful appearance or sunny personality. She is more a rainbow than a ray of sunshine. Determined, compassionate and always with the best of intentions in her heart. It’s more of a Struggling/Rainbow trope than a Grumpy/Sunshine trope.
I loved the way Cathryn gives the locations a life of their own. From the rural properties, the small town, and especially how she gives you a run-down historic mansion but gives you glimpses of its grandeur that it once possessed and the hope that it may once again return to the grand home it once was.
The Grazier’s Son is a fantastic book that has you eager to find out the answers to the questions that plague Stirling, and on the edge of your seat wondering if Stirling and Darcy are both going to survive the events when it all comes to a nail-biting conclusion.
I highly recommend grabbing a copy, taking a journey to the world of Stirling and Darcy. You won’t be disappointed.
#thegraziersson
#cathrynhein
#vavoom
#harpercollinsbooksaustralia
For me, The Grazier’s Son wasn’t just a rural romance, it was also a mystery, thriller, crime and drama. Full of historical mystery and nostalgia, new romance and fractured romance, friendships and family, and an amazing array of colourful and stylish outfits.
Not all of Grassmoor, actually you’d be more correct if you said most of Grassmoor don’t welcome Stirling when he arrives to take possession of his inheritance from a father that he never knew. The hostility just radiates from the town and its residents, and not for anything that Stirling has done, but more because of his family tree.
The one person that goes above and beyond to save Stirling, make him feel welcome and help him realise that he may be able to build a future at Westwind, is Darcy. She’s invested and willing to look out for her investment.
The characters in the story are larger-than-life with many of them coming to the forefront, making you smile and showing you their very unique personalities.
I really enjoyed following Stirling along and loved seeing the change in his thoughts and emotions as Darcy inserts herself into his life and heart. Darcy comes directly at you, making no excuses for her colourful appearance or sunny personality. She is more a rainbow than a ray of sunshine. Determined, compassionate and always with the best of intentions in her heart. It’s more of a Struggling/Rainbow trope than a Grumpy/Sunshine trope.
I loved the way Cathryn gives the locations a life of their own. From the rural properties, the small town, and especially how she gives you a run-down historic mansion but gives you glimpses of its grandeur that it once possessed and the hope that it may once again return to the grand home it once was.
The Grazier’s Son is a fantastic book that has you eager to find out the answers to the questions that plague Stirling, and on the edge of your seat wondering if Stirling and Darcy are both going to survive the events when it all comes to a nail-biting conclusion.
I highly recommend grabbing a copy, taking a journey to the world of Stirling and Darcy. You won’t be disappointed.
#thegraziersson
#cathrynhein
#vavoom
#harpercollinsbooksaustralia
June 3, 2024
Helicopter pilot Stirling Hawley has spent a lot of his working life carrying medics into dangerous parts of the world...war and disaster areas. He is recovering from one these trips that ended in disaster when he learns that he has inherited a property in Grassmoor in Victoria's Western District. A property he didn't know existed which belonged to his father Dougal Kildare, a man he had never met.
On arriving at Grassmoor, he is met with distrust and dislike and a mystery that he is determined to solve. The more he investigates the property Westwind and his father the more uneasy he becomes. Something is not right and the answers to the mystery are not easy to uncover.
At the property Westwind, Stirling is saved from near death by vivacious vintage clothing designer Darcy Sloane. Darcy takes a personal interest in Stirling and takes care of him. As Darcy had stripped off one of her favourite dresses to stem a bleeding Stirling, she tells him she is 'invested' in him and in his attempts to heal.
As Stirling's suspicions about a fraud by his father against the local community and aspects of his death don't seem to add up, both Stirling and Darcy and their friends all appear to be in danger.
I loved this story. Hero Stirling (though he doesn't agree with the hero status), a most delightful heroine Darcy with her sewing and style talents and avid footy fan, a bunch of faithful and caring friends all brings together a very delightful, eventful and suspense filled story.
The Grazier's Son is also a very welcome return to the writing of Cathryn Hein...I have read and loved all Cathryn's books and this book, all her books, I highly recommend.
Thank you Cathryn and welcome back! I do hope we may see more of your stories in the future.
On arriving at Grassmoor, he is met with distrust and dislike and a mystery that he is determined to solve. The more he investigates the property Westwind and his father the more uneasy he becomes. Something is not right and the answers to the mystery are not easy to uncover.
At the property Westwind, Stirling is saved from near death by vivacious vintage clothing designer Darcy Sloane. Darcy takes a personal interest in Stirling and takes care of him. As Darcy had stripped off one of her favourite dresses to stem a bleeding Stirling, she tells him she is 'invested' in him and in his attempts to heal.
As Stirling's suspicions about a fraud by his father against the local community and aspects of his death don't seem to add up, both Stirling and Darcy and their friends all appear to be in danger.
I loved this story. Hero Stirling (though he doesn't agree with the hero status), a most delightful heroine Darcy with her sewing and style talents and avid footy fan, a bunch of faithful and caring friends all brings together a very delightful, eventful and suspense filled story.
The Grazier's Son is also a very welcome return to the writing of Cathryn Hein...I have read and loved all Cathryn's books and this book, all her books, I highly recommend.
Thank you Cathryn and welcome back! I do hope we may see more of your stories in the future.
April 11, 2024
Cathryn Hein is one of my favourite Australian rural romance authors and her latest book, The Grazier’s Son is just fabulous. The characters are all well-drawn and thoroughly believable. I loved Stirling from the moment he appeared on the oage, while Darcy Sloan, founder of the successful VaVoom fifties fashion label, is a force of nature and a perfect foil for Stirling. The plot deals with some challenging issues but it also kept me guessing. I think one of the things I loved most about this book is the marvelous imagery. It was so easy to picture the western Victorian countryside where this story is set, but I think one of my favourite lines was Darcys reaction to something Stirling said to her: “His words draped her like a cashmere wrap, cosy and kind and oh so flattering.” I felt draped in cashmere myself! This book is a bit of a change from the humourous angles of earlier Cathryn Hein stories but it is no less enjoyable. Very definitely a five.
June 23, 2024
Loved it! I so enjoy reading a new book by Cathryn Hein. It's like opening a box of delicious chocolate truffles, knowing I'm in for a treat. Her latest, The Grazier's Son, doesn't disappoint. In fact it takes themes I love in her stories to a new level. There's the perfectly drawn rural setting, the oh-so-real characters, the sense of community that's genuine and quirky and incredibly satisfying. More, there are the terrific hero and heroine, utterly unique and engagin. Darcy and Stirling are compelling, gorgeous characters who draw you in. I adored the strong, troubled Stirling, facing dangerous secrets and a painful past with stoicism. As for Darcy, I defy anyone not to be charmed by her. This is a great, big, juicy love story with a touch of the thriller about it, a strong thread of mystery and a thrilling climax. Above all it's a story of heart and hope and has a delightful happy ending. Big sighs of satisfaction from this reader.
May 28, 2024
Striling ex army officer discovers the father he never knew left him his home Westwind in Grossmoor. He arrives and begins walking through the large home and outdoors when he falls and seriously injures himself. Darcy arrives to check on Westwind and finds Stirling and takes off her dress to help stop the bleeding and get help. This is the start of a beautiful relationship between the two of them. There is also Stirling's need to discover who his father was and why he committed suicide or who has any to do with it. This is not just abou finding love but also solving what had happened to his dad and protecting those we love.
May 3, 2024
Thanks to NetGalley and Harlequin Australia for the chance to read this book.
This story by Cathryn Hein is set in rural Victoria and showcases some of the highs and lows of small town life. Stirling is on the receiving end of some very small-minded attitudes but not from Darcy. She is a confident woman who is totally comfortable in her own skin.
The story is full of drama with life-threatening situations, generations old secrets, and new love. It was hard to put down with the characters being (mostly) kind and the type of people you'd love to have around you in good and bad times.
This story by Cathryn Hein is set in rural Victoria and showcases some of the highs and lows of small town life. Stirling is on the receiving end of some very small-minded attitudes but not from Darcy. She is a confident woman who is totally comfortable in her own skin.
The story is full of drama with life-threatening situations, generations old secrets, and new love. It was hard to put down with the characters being (mostly) kind and the type of people you'd love to have around you in good and bad times.
July 20, 2024
Stirling Hawley is a helicopter pilot recuperating from serious injury. He finds he has inherited a property in western Victoria from a father he knows little about. This involves a tangled web of family relationships, an out of character shooting of beloved dogs & suicide. Stirling has his own demons. Enter local vintage clothing designer, Darcy Sloane & other locals who are very angry towards Stirling’s father & his perceived dealings with them. As Stirling digs into his father’s business & his developing interest in Darcy, things become tense & dangerous.
I score 4.75 🌟
I score 4.75 🌟
July 28, 2025
Due to an inheritance from a father he didn't know he had, Stirling Hawley arrives in Grassmoor in the western district of Victoria, shocked that the town seems to hate him.
He is also injured and is near death only to be saved by a very glamorous dress designer, Darcy Sloane, who seems to be interested in his recovery.
As Stirling digs into his father's past he finds many secrets and realises that not only is he in danger, but also Darcy, the woman whom he loves.
A fanastic story with many layers and strong interesting characters.
Well worth the read!
He is also injured and is near death only to be saved by a very glamorous dress designer, Darcy Sloane, who seems to be interested in his recovery.
As Stirling digs into his father's past he finds many secrets and realises that not only is he in danger, but also Darcy, the woman whom he loves.
A fanastic story with many layers and strong interesting characters.
Well worth the read!
June 20, 2024
I loved this book. From the first sentence it had me hooked and I could not put it down. Strong, fabulous characters, romance in a gorgeous Rural Australian setting, an inheritance and an unexplained and unbelievable death. Cathryn Hein nails them all in this gripping, unputdownable novel. It had everything I look for in a book and more. You won't regret picking this one up. I can't wait for her next story!
December 24, 2024
Stirling heads to the country as he’s inherited a farm from his father he’s never met. Only problem is the whole town hates him when they work out who he is, apart from, the gorgeous Darcy. Darcy saved him on his first day on the farm after an injury occurred. The characters all had their own uniqueness in this story and their quirks made them memorable. The storyline wasn’t at all what I was expecting and I loved this story.
April 16, 2024
Another great read.
Many years ago when I first started reading Rural Romance, Small Town Fiction or want ever you want to call it, one of the first Writers I read was Cathryn Hein. All these years on her books have filled me with so much joy. Thank you Cathryn once again for a wonderful book and for continually taking me on these wonderful journeys.
Many years ago when I first started reading Rural Romance, Small Town Fiction or want ever you want to call it, one of the first Writers I read was Cathryn Hein. All these years on her books have filled me with so much joy. Thank you Cathryn once again for a wonderful book and for continually taking me on these wonderful journeys.
April 20, 2024
I really enjoyed this book. Stirling has been injured in a helicopter accident and goes back to a ‘mansion’ his unknown father left him in a small country town. While initially exploring he falls through some rotten flooring in the shed, badly injuring his good leg. The townspeople won’t have anything to do with him and things look bleak.
July 8, 2024
This is one not to be missed. I couldn't put it down. Stirling is to die for--a real hero--while heroine Darcy is an utter delight! Throw in a gorgeous historic homestead, the best (and worst) of living in a small country town, a simmering mystery with a dash of danger, and you have a winner. I chuckled, I shed a tear, and I happy sighed. Bravo, Ms Hein!
February 17, 2025
The graziers son by cathryn hein. Yes, firstly, this was a romance, then second a mystery/adventure story. But honestly, it was the mystery/adventure side of this book that actually kept me going with this one. Yes, the romance waLols nice. But that's it. It wasn't really like grabbing my pearls and sighing about it. Lol
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