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Lily's Leap
From Escape Publishing's Queen of historical Australian romance comes a new story about a privileged member of Australian's colonial squattocracy, a bushranger, and a very special horse.
Born into the rough, but still privileged society of the Australian colonial landowners, Lilibeth Dungarven finds herself married, widowed, and, much to her distress, back under her father's thumb, all before her twenty–first birthday. Determined not to forgo her dream of breeding the perfect racehorse, Lilibeth ignores propriety and sets out to restore the family's flagging fortunes.
When Captain Tom and his mismatched band of bushrangers stumble across a mob of the best horses they've ever seen, and the daughter of the famed Dungarven horse stud, they know their fortunes have changed. Their catch is worth a king's ransom. All they have to do is hold the daughter for seven days. How hard can it be to control the pampered daughter of a colonial upstart?
Born into the rough, but still privileged society of the Australian colonial landowners, Lilibeth Dungarven finds herself married, widowed, and, much to her distress, back under her father's thumb, all before her twenty–first birthday. Determined not to forgo her dream of breeding the perfect racehorse, Lilibeth ignores propriety and sets out to restore the family's flagging fortunes.
When Captain Tom and his mismatched band of bushrangers stumble across a mob of the best horses they've ever seen, and the daughter of the famed Dungarven horse stud, they know their fortunes have changed. Their catch is worth a king's ransom. All they have to do is hold the daughter for seven days. How hard can it be to control the pampered daughter of a colonial upstart?
95 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 26, 2013
40 people are currently reading
336 people want to read
About the author
Tea Cooper
28 books957 followersTea Cooper writes Australian contemporary and historical fiction. In a past life she was a teacher, a journalist and a farmer. These days she haunts museums and indulges her passion for storytelling.
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Displaying 1 - 28 of 29 reviews
June 2, 2014
Lilibeth Dungarven, is back living under her father's roof after her husband and her mother were killed in a horrific riding accident. Living with her father is not the ideal situation, but Lilibeth knows someone has to take charge of the property seeing as her father has taken up drinking and is no longer capable of making important decisions.
Whilst Lilibeth, Bonnie and George are out herding race horses to Sydney that will be shipped to India they suddenly come to a dead stop and find themselves surrounded by bushrangers. Glancing over the horses Captain Thomas Roscomon, thought this was his lucky day as he soon identifies the, Dungarven branding which meant good bloodlines that were worth a lot of money and there was no way he was going to let them pass him by.
Sending George back to Lily's father with a ransom note stating that five hundred pounds was required for her return and to meet in seven days at The Settler's Arms. In the meantime the rest of them would continue with the herding, but now it was about to become a lot tougher. Lily must now make sure the horses come to no harm and arrive safely and on time. Dealing with the horses is one thing, but dealing with Captain Tom and his men would be an entirely different story.
Will Lily's father pay the ransom? And will the horses arrive safely or will something go wrong?
I thoroughly enjoyed this truly beautifully written Australian story. This story is set around Wollombi and after reading this book it's a place I would dearly love to visit one day. This historical romance really was a very enjoyable read right from the start all the way to the very end. A fabulous read by a very talented Aussie author which I have no hesitation in HIGHLY recommending.
With thanks to the author for my ARC to read.
Whilst Lilibeth, Bonnie and George are out herding race horses to Sydney that will be shipped to India they suddenly come to a dead stop and find themselves surrounded by bushrangers. Glancing over the horses Captain Thomas Roscomon, thought this was his lucky day as he soon identifies the, Dungarven branding which meant good bloodlines that were worth a lot of money and there was no way he was going to let them pass him by.
Sending George back to Lily's father with a ransom note stating that five hundred pounds was required for her return and to meet in seven days at The Settler's Arms. In the meantime the rest of them would continue with the herding, but now it was about to become a lot tougher. Lily must now make sure the horses come to no harm and arrive safely and on time. Dealing with the horses is one thing, but dealing with Captain Tom and his men would be an entirely different story.
Will Lily's father pay the ransom? And will the horses arrive safely or will something go wrong?
I thoroughly enjoyed this truly beautifully written Australian story. This story is set around Wollombi and after reading this book it's a place I would dearly love to visit one day. This historical romance really was a very enjoyable read right from the start all the way to the very end. A fabulous read by a very talented Aussie author which I have no hesitation in HIGHLY recommending.
With thanks to the author for my ARC to read.
March 19, 2013
I loved this book. If you're looking for an Australian historical you wont be able to put down then I suggest giving this book a go. Not only was I invested in the characters, I learnt a thing or two about the history of my country. And had a good time in the bargain.
April 19, 2013
Lilibeth Dungarven, astride her beautiful stallion Nero, and accompanied by friend Bonnie and worker George, were travelling to Sydney, moving a herd of top bred racing horses to be shipped to India. She had come up with the idea to rescue her family from destitution…her father was broke, bitter and a drunk, and at twenty, she found herself in charge of bringing their property out of the red…she was determined this would work. She had been married for four years to her best friend Dom, and suddenly he and her beloved mother were killed in a tragic riding accident. With nowhere to go, Lily had found herself back with her father.
Suddenly she heard a noise which shouldn’t be there…and then they were surrounded by bushrangers, and even with her wiles and speed, she was no match for the strength of Captain Tom and his unruly men. Captain Thomas Roscomon couldn’t believe his luck when he recognised the quality of the horses, so much different from the nags they were riding, and when he realized where they were from, and who the woman accompanying them was, he knew he was about to make his fortune!
After sending the hapless George back to Lily’s father with a ransom note for 500 pounds for her return, and the instructions to meet him at The Settlers Arms in seven days, he informed everyone they had a hard ride ahead of them. Nero was joined to Tom’s horse by rope, with Jem, the tracker in front, and Pete and Will behind…Bonnie rode near Lily. The herded horses happily followed Nero. Lily was furious, she wouldn’t be thwarted by this bunch of filthy, scruffy bushrangers, even though Captain Tom was a devilishly handsome fellow, whose eyes when he looked at her, had her colour rising, much to her chagrin.
With Lily’s mind churning, trying to work out their options, and coming up with very little, she had no choice but to ride along with them all. But she certainly wasn’t doing it meekly, and was determined to find a way to continue her trip with the horses to Sydney, with Nero running in the races at Windsor on the way…
Would they escape from Captain Tom and his men? Would her drunken father come up with the ransom? What would happen to them, to her wonderfully spirited horses?
When I started this book, I was thrilled to find it was based in and around Wollombi, about an hour from where I live. I’ve been to Wollombi, it’s a lovely old place, still set back in time, with beautiful little shops, and the markets on the weekend are wonderful. We’ve sat in the pub looking out over the hills behind it, and been awed by the beauty of the countryside. The author lives in Wollombi, and I just may have passed her in the street!
The history aspect of this book was very enjoyable, and so much of it was familiar. I enjoyed Lily’s strong character, and her determination and fighting spirit, plus her love of Nero. I would recommend this book to anyone who loves a romantic historical fiction novel.
With thanks to the author for my ARC copy of this book to read and review.
Suddenly she heard a noise which shouldn’t be there…and then they were surrounded by bushrangers, and even with her wiles and speed, she was no match for the strength of Captain Tom and his unruly men. Captain Thomas Roscomon couldn’t believe his luck when he recognised the quality of the horses, so much different from the nags they were riding, and when he realized where they were from, and who the woman accompanying them was, he knew he was about to make his fortune!
After sending the hapless George back to Lily’s father with a ransom note for 500 pounds for her return, and the instructions to meet him at The Settlers Arms in seven days, he informed everyone they had a hard ride ahead of them. Nero was joined to Tom’s horse by rope, with Jem, the tracker in front, and Pete and Will behind…Bonnie rode near Lily. The herded horses happily followed Nero. Lily was furious, she wouldn’t be thwarted by this bunch of filthy, scruffy bushrangers, even though Captain Tom was a devilishly handsome fellow, whose eyes when he looked at her, had her colour rising, much to her chagrin.
With Lily’s mind churning, trying to work out their options, and coming up with very little, she had no choice but to ride along with them all. But she certainly wasn’t doing it meekly, and was determined to find a way to continue her trip with the horses to Sydney, with Nero running in the races at Windsor on the way…
Would they escape from Captain Tom and his men? Would her drunken father come up with the ransom? What would happen to them, to her wonderfully spirited horses?
When I started this book, I was thrilled to find it was based in and around Wollombi, about an hour from where I live. I’ve been to Wollombi, it’s a lovely old place, still set back in time, with beautiful little shops, and the markets on the weekend are wonderful. We’ve sat in the pub looking out over the hills behind it, and been awed by the beauty of the countryside. The author lives in Wollombi, and I just may have passed her in the street!
The history aspect of this book was very enjoyable, and so much of it was familiar. I enjoyed Lily’s strong character, and her determination and fighting spirit, plus her love of Nero. I would recommend this book to anyone who loves a romantic historical fiction novel.
With thanks to the author for my ARC copy of this book to read and review.
June 4, 2014
What I loved:
-The horses, the riding, the descriptions. Great balance of story vs descriptive details. It doesn't bore me to death by giving me too much at once or nattering on and on. It gives me the perfect amount.
-Lily's leap. Now that's a scene. I'm not saying any more than that.
-Lily's occasional spunk. When asked where she learned to ride like a boy, she retorts, "I didn't learn to ride like a boy. I learned to ride a horse." She later makes a very similar and just as witty comment during a game of chess. LOL
-The seamless narrative. It switches back and forth with ease. It flows.
-The horse race!!!!! Whoo hoo!!!!!!!!!!
What I did not like:
-How easy it was for Lily to be captured. Except for one escape attempt, Lily just kinda saunters right into her kidnapper's arms. This really didn't suit her otherwise headstrong character.
-How quickly the hero and heroine ended up draped over each other. They didn't even have two serious conversations before they were lip-locked.
-The fact the hero kidnapped the heroine for ransom never seems to be an issue...even with the heroine. Though I appreciated the perp/victim thing became a partnership, he never apologized for his actions and nobody said a word about his crime. It was just instantly water under the bus as they fell in love. Personally, if you kidnap me for ransom, I'm not going to offer you money, or fret over you doing prison time, or anything else. I'm gonna kick you in the nuts, hard. Again, this didn't work with what I felt otherwise was a very strong woman.
3.5 bikes or 3 bikes and a frame and engine. ;) For the most I really enjoyed it. I just had a hard time with those little bits.
http://wwwbookbabe.blogspot.com/2013/...
-The horses, the riding, the descriptions. Great balance of story vs descriptive details. It doesn't bore me to death by giving me too much at once or nattering on and on. It gives me the perfect amount.
-Lily's leap. Now that's a scene. I'm not saying any more than that.
-Lily's occasional spunk. When asked where she learned to ride like a boy, she retorts, "I didn't learn to ride like a boy. I learned to ride a horse." She later makes a very similar and just as witty comment during a game of chess. LOL
-The seamless narrative. It switches back and forth with ease. It flows.
-The horse race!!!!! Whoo hoo!!!!!!!!!!
What I did not like:
-How easy it was for Lily to be captured. Except for one escape attempt, Lily just kinda saunters right into her kidnapper's arms. This really didn't suit her otherwise headstrong character.
-How quickly the hero and heroine ended up draped over each other. They didn't even have two serious conversations before they were lip-locked.
-The fact the hero kidnapped the heroine for ransom never seems to be an issue...even with the heroine. Though I appreciated the perp/victim thing became a partnership, he never apologized for his actions and nobody said a word about his crime. It was just instantly water under the bus as they fell in love. Personally, if you kidnap me for ransom, I'm not going to offer you money, or fret over you doing prison time, or anything else. I'm gonna kick you in the nuts, hard. Again, this didn't work with what I felt otherwise was a very strong woman.
3.5 bikes or 3 bikes and a frame and engine. ;) For the most I really enjoyed it. I just had a hard time with those little bits.
http://wwwbookbabe.blogspot.com/2013/...
June 9, 2014
I received an eARC of Lily's Leap from the publisher, Escape Publishing, via NetGalley, in exchange for an honest review.
My rating: 4 out of 5
Readers of my blog will know I am bang up for some good historical romance of late. One period of time we rarely get to see in romantic fiction is Colonial-era Australia, and thanks to Téa Cooper, her soon-to-be-released Lily’s Leap takes us straight back to this wild and fascinating time.
....
This takes place over a relatively short period of time - just a week - but I didn't find this to be an issue in the development of the relationship. The romantic and sexual tension was beautifully done, and I like that any romance fitted the time period - no chandelier swinging here.
There is a great sense of adventure throughout Lily's Leap, and the vivid nature of the language used makes it so easy to imagine what it would have looked like back in the early 1800s.
If you enjoy historical romance, and you are hungry for a tale with an real Australian flavour, Lily's Leap is definitely one to look out for.
For the full review, please click through here.
My rating: 4 out of 5
Readers of my blog will know I am bang up for some good historical romance of late. One period of time we rarely get to see in romantic fiction is Colonial-era Australia, and thanks to Téa Cooper, her soon-to-be-released Lily’s Leap takes us straight back to this wild and fascinating time.
....
This takes place over a relatively short period of time - just a week - but I didn't find this to be an issue in the development of the relationship. The romantic and sexual tension was beautifully done, and I like that any romance fitted the time period - no chandelier swinging here.
There is a great sense of adventure throughout Lily's Leap, and the vivid nature of the language used makes it so easy to imagine what it would have looked like back in the early 1800s.
If you enjoy historical romance, and you are hungry for a tale with an real Australian flavour, Lily's Leap is definitely one to look out for.
For the full review, please click through here.
September 1, 2016
I really enjoyed this one it took me back to colonial Australia and a very adventurous journey to a HEA it was filled with ups and downs and a very sensual pull between the hero and heroine I was cheering them on while turning the pages.
Lilibeth Dungarven Lily as she is know to her family and friends has led a fairly privileged life in Colonial Australia with a very hard father a loving mother she is married very young to her best friend and neighbour but is also widowed young when her mother and husband are killed in a riding accident and her father has turned to drink so Lily steps up and takes over looking after their land and the horses. When she takes the horses that need to be shipped overseas on a journey to Sydney from The Hunter Valley that should improve things on the home front for her and it does but not the way she expected .
Thomas Roscomon has been in Australia for a while now but has changed what he does for a living he is now a bushranger and when he comes across the lovely Lady her friends and their horses kidnapping is about to be one more change of jobs there is such a spark when he meets the strong will Lily who continually tries to take over. This is going to be a rough journey.
This is the first book by Tea Cooper that I have read but it won't be the last I loved being transported back to this time in Australia's history the setting and scenery are so beautiful and Lily and Tom wow what a hero and heroine Tom had so much in his past that needed to be cleared up and Lily what a strong determined woman and horse rider. I loved the pull and sizzle between them and the up and down journey thank you MS Cooper I thoroughly enjoyed this one and highly recommend it.
Lilibeth Dungarven Lily as she is know to her family and friends has led a fairly privileged life in Colonial Australia with a very hard father a loving mother she is married very young to her best friend and neighbour but is also widowed young when her mother and husband are killed in a riding accident and her father has turned to drink so Lily steps up and takes over looking after their land and the horses. When she takes the horses that need to be shipped overseas on a journey to Sydney from The Hunter Valley that should improve things on the home front for her and it does but not the way she expected .
Thomas Roscomon has been in Australia for a while now but has changed what he does for a living he is now a bushranger and when he comes across the lovely Lady her friends and their horses kidnapping is about to be one more change of jobs there is such a spark when he meets the strong will Lily who continually tries to take over. This is going to be a rough journey.
This is the first book by Tea Cooper that I have read but it won't be the last I loved being transported back to this time in Australia's history the setting and scenery are so beautiful and Lily and Tom wow what a hero and heroine Tom had so much in his past that needed to be cleared up and Lily what a strong determined woman and horse rider. I loved the pull and sizzle between them and the up and down journey thank you MS Cooper I thoroughly enjoyed this one and highly recommend it.
June 22, 2016
LILY’S LEAP is a novelette of about 95 pages and I picked it for two reasons; firstly, my granddaughter’s name is Lily, and secondly, it is set in my old stomping ground of Hunter Valley. Author Téa Cooper didn’t let me down, her vivid descriptions bringing the Wollombi region and down the old road to Sydney alive. I have 4 wheel driven down part of the old road and I could just close my eyes and imagine them all galloping down it. The bulk of the action part of story spans around a couple of days, the falling in love and sorting out Lily’s life – then there is a wee while of a wait to see the outcome of Tom, which was realistic because if things had happened instantly with Tom I would have been disappointed. There is quite a bit of horse action, and the romance is sweet with a realistic amount of romantic tension without the in your face description. Then there are the horses – a lot of riding and horse racing stuff. Not being a horsey person I was a bit worried that I would be bored, but no there were, again, beautifully described horse action without boring me to tears with little details that I didn’t need to know – very well balanced. And did Lily leap? Too right she did – and it was a magnificent scene!! This was my first Téa Cooper story, and I will be reading more.
C – Above average. Was very readable and I really liked it but was easily able to put it down and walk away for a while.
With thanks to Escape Publishing and the author via Netgalley for my copy to read and review.
C – Above average. Was very readable and I really liked it but was easily able to put it down and walk away for a while.
With thanks to Escape Publishing and the author via Netgalley for my copy to read and review.
August 26, 2014
I received this book from the author in exchange for a fair review.
While out for a ride,Lily Dungarven discovers rustlers in the process of stealing her father's herd of prize horses, which are destined to be shipped from Sydney to a buyer overseas.The rustlers decide to hold Lily for ransom.While waiting for an answer from her father, Lily first tries, unsuccessfully,to outwit the bandits by escaping from them on her stallion, which she hopes to enter in a race in order to solve her family's financial difficulties.After an unsuccessful, harrowing chase through the desolate Australian outback,Lily and her handsome captor find themselves falling in love,in spite of the circumstances they are in.This is the first in a series plot twists. Nothing is as it seems.Is Lily a naive,reckless young girl? Who is the real thief in the story and will it end well for Lily?
First of all, I must admit these types of romance stories are not, what I typically read.However, I was initially drawn to the story by it's Australian setting.Not only is this novel a romance story, but the writer skillfully blends local historical facts into her tale.Her colourful characters give the reader a taste of what life might have been like for those early Australian settlers.
While out for a ride,Lily Dungarven discovers rustlers in the process of stealing her father's herd of prize horses, which are destined to be shipped from Sydney to a buyer overseas.The rustlers decide to hold Lily for ransom.While waiting for an answer from her father, Lily first tries, unsuccessfully,to outwit the bandits by escaping from them on her stallion, which she hopes to enter in a race in order to solve her family's financial difficulties.After an unsuccessful, harrowing chase through the desolate Australian outback,Lily and her handsome captor find themselves falling in love,in spite of the circumstances they are in.This is the first in a series plot twists. Nothing is as it seems.Is Lily a naive,reckless young girl? Who is the real thief in the story and will it end well for Lily?
First of all, I must admit these types of romance stories are not, what I typically read.However, I was initially drawn to the story by it's Australian setting.Not only is this novel a romance story, but the writer skillfully blends local historical facts into her tale.Her colourful characters give the reader a taste of what life might have been like for those early Australian settlers.
May 31, 2013
Lily’s Leap -A perfect blend of history, romance and adventure.
Tea Cooper has once again created likeable, intelligent and beautiful characters in her latest historical romance Lily’s Leap. I warmed to Lily immediately and also to Lily’s hero Tom who is chivalrous, brave and handsome. Here is just a small exquisite taste of their romance from early in the book, “The warmth of her filled him, her ragged breath was moist against his neck and the softness of her breasts rested against his body. A shiver of anticipation slithered through him.”
Whilst Tea successfully combines the three genres of history, romance and adventure, her distinctive writing style and her own authorial voice shines through creating a narrative that I could hardly put down! Her vivid descriptions of the setting are just one of her strengths.
The landscape assumes the position of a character in this exciting romance; playing a pivotal role in Lily’s adventure. It is obvious Tea has great love and knowledge of Wollombi and surrounds where the story is set. “ The radiant heat from the rocks added to the cloying mood overtaking her. She was convinced she was being dragged back in time. The antiquity of the place seeped through her skin speaking of secrets she couldn’t fathom.” Her descriptions will immediately resonate with readers who know the area as much as those visiting one of NSW most historic towns.
Fabulous work Tea! I can’t wait for the next one.
Tea Cooper has once again created likeable, intelligent and beautiful characters in her latest historical romance Lily’s Leap. I warmed to Lily immediately and also to Lily’s hero Tom who is chivalrous, brave and handsome. Here is just a small exquisite taste of their romance from early in the book, “The warmth of her filled him, her ragged breath was moist against his neck and the softness of her breasts rested against his body. A shiver of anticipation slithered through him.”
Whilst Tea successfully combines the three genres of history, romance and adventure, her distinctive writing style and her own authorial voice shines through creating a narrative that I could hardly put down! Her vivid descriptions of the setting are just one of her strengths.
The landscape assumes the position of a character in this exciting romance; playing a pivotal role in Lily’s adventure. It is obvious Tea has great love and knowledge of Wollombi and surrounds where the story is set. “ The radiant heat from the rocks added to the cloying mood overtaking her. She was convinced she was being dragged back in time. The antiquity of the place seeped through her skin speaking of secrets she couldn’t fathom.” Her descriptions will immediately resonate with readers who know the area as much as those visiting one of NSW most historic towns.
Fabulous work Tea! I can’t wait for the next one.
May 11, 2013
I thoroughly enjoyed Lilly’s Leap, a historical romance set in the Outback of Australia. The characters were engaging, and had a strong sexual tension although there was no actual love making as befitted the times.
Lilly Dungarven, young widow and the daughter of the property has taken over running the stud and breeding the beautiful horses that are known across Australia while her father slips into drink and cruelty. The hero, Thomas Roscommon, is a surveyor and adventurer who has been forced into a rough life on the road as he eludes the law and unfair criminal charges against him. When Tom kidnaps Lilly and the herd of horses she is transporting to Sydney for sale, the fun begins.
The setting, Wollombi located North of Sydney, and the taste of Australian history was interesting . Since I doubt I’ll be visiting Australia (although I would like to), it was a treat to feel like I was there, herding horses to market across the Australian Outback . The excitement of the heroine and her wonderful stallion being washed away in the flooding Hawkesbury River, the drama of the hero being imprisoned on Cockatoo Island, and the evil doing step-father added grit to the love story.
This story was well worth the time. I know you will enjoy it.
Lilly Dungarven, young widow and the daughter of the property has taken over running the stud and breeding the beautiful horses that are known across Australia while her father slips into drink and cruelty. The hero, Thomas Roscommon, is a surveyor and adventurer who has been forced into a rough life on the road as he eludes the law and unfair criminal charges against him. When Tom kidnaps Lilly and the herd of horses she is transporting to Sydney for sale, the fun begins.
The setting, Wollombi located North of Sydney, and the taste of Australian history was interesting . Since I doubt I’ll be visiting Australia (although I would like to), it was a treat to feel like I was there, herding horses to market across the Australian Outback . The excitement of the heroine and her wonderful stallion being washed away in the flooding Hawkesbury River, the drama of the hero being imprisoned on Cockatoo Island, and the evil doing step-father added grit to the love story.
This story was well worth the time. I know you will enjoy it.
August 3, 2014
(I received a free copy of this book from Net Galley in exchange for an honest review.)
Australian historical romance/sagas have been quite popular over the last few years and this novella by Téa Cooper proves why.
After losing her husband and mother to a horrific accident, Lilibeth finds herself back living at home with her father, needing to look after the family property as her father has turned to the bottle for solace.
When she and friends are taking some horses to Sydney for shipping to India as a way to raise money to get the family out of debt, she is kidnapped and ransomed by bush-rangers. Would she get the horses to where they needed to go or would she find that dealing with the bushrangers far harder than she could imagine?
Tea Cooper is not yet a household name but with more solid work like this, she is certain to be in time. A great read and recommended to anyone who loves Australian historicals.
Paul
ARH
Australian historical romance/sagas have been quite popular over the last few years and this novella by Téa Cooper proves why.
After losing her husband and mother to a horrific accident, Lilibeth finds herself back living at home with her father, needing to look after the family property as her father has turned to the bottle for solace.
When she and friends are taking some horses to Sydney for shipping to India as a way to raise money to get the family out of debt, she is kidnapped and ransomed by bush-rangers. Would she get the horses to where they needed to go or would she find that dealing with the bushrangers far harder than she could imagine?
Tea Cooper is not yet a household name but with more solid work like this, she is certain to be in time. A great read and recommended to anyone who loves Australian historicals.
Paul
ARH
August 6, 2014
Lily’s Leap is a sweet historical novella set in colonial Australia. The story opens with an ambush to steal horses which quickly turned into a kidnapping for ransom. It was attraction formed at first sight (you really can’t mess about when it’s only a novella!) - the heat quickly ratcheted and was undeniable on either sides. Neither party knew each other at all though so it was a battle of mysterious past.
It was a beautiful easy read with a daring heroine. The romance was sweet though fraught with uncertainties right to the end. Being a novella, however, there were some things which I thought could be develop however in saying that, Lily’s Leap holds a promise of being a full blown novel of sweeping Aussie romance saga. I wish there was more...
Thank you, Escape Publishing for copy of eARC via NetGalley
It was a beautiful easy read with a daring heroine. The romance was sweet though fraught with uncertainties right to the end. Being a novella, however, there were some things which I thought could be develop however in saying that, Lily’s Leap holds a promise of being a full blown novel of sweeping Aussie romance saga. I wish there was more...
Thank you, Escape Publishing for copy of eARC via NetGalley
August 26, 2014
Lily's Leap by Téa Cooper is a delightful read. The harsh setting in the Australian bush and the equally rugged and determined characters make this a pleasure to read. There is something for everyone here in this story - a reluctant hero, one tough, admirable female, fast-paced action, heart-felt drama, kidnapping gone wrong, surprising twists, and the beautiful visual imagery of the land around Wollombi. Add romance between unlikely characters in the mix and it makes a riveting read.
NetGalley provided a copy for an honest review.
NetGalley provided a copy for an honest review.
May 22, 2013
I love the way the description immediately pulls the reader into this story. I have to admit I love a small town story and this doesn't disappoint. Add bloodstock to the mix and this farm girl is very happy indeed.
Lily has a hard life and the reason becomes clear near the end of the book but I fell in love with her in the very beginning when she stands up to would be robbers.
Love a feisty heroine, it will win me over every time.
Lily has a hard life and the reason becomes clear near the end of the book but I fell in love with her in the very beginning when she stands up to would be robbers.
Love a feisty heroine, it will win me over every time.
July 3, 2014
What a captivating read Lily's Leap by Téa Cooper was from start to finish! Strong, bewitching characters that draw your attention to the book and their adventurous story will have you engrossed in the pages!
Lily and Tom's characters shine through the pages and their endeavours, ardour and magnetism will entertain you all throughout the story.
5 Glorious Stars
*ARC Received from the Publisher for an honest review.
Lily and Tom's characters shine through the pages and their endeavours, ardour and magnetism will entertain you all throughout the story.
5 Glorious Stars
*ARC Received from the Publisher for an honest review.
June 14, 2013
I loved this story. Lily is the feisty heroine with a passion for horses who is determined to show she can put Dungarven horses back on the map. You'll fall in love with Captain Tom - how could you not? - and you'll be wishing it was you kidnapped by the dashing bush ranger. Forget work, forget all your responsibilities and slide into this delicious story.
November 16, 2024
Lily's Leap was the first historical romance written by Australian writer Tea Cooper. She is a resident of the area of which she writes. Her hero and heroine met on the road to Sydney where Lily was taking her horses to be sold for soldiers in India. Tom and his cohorts were thinking of making the horses theirs and sending a ransom note to Lily's father. A spark of interest is shown by both Lily and Tom. This was a very short novel and I am sure her next books will have the story more flushed out.
June 6, 2018
I'm quite taken by Tea Cooper's books - I found this to be e romantic, interesting being set in Australia in the past. I admired Lily's bravery and tenacity - a feel good book (even though romance isn't the genre I would usually look for).
Thank you Tea, for a story of romance that isn't 'over the top'.
Thank you Tea, for a story of romance that isn't 'over the top'.
April 21, 2023
An enjoyable story to while away a few lazy days. Tea Cooper has a knack of mixing historical romance with actual fact. I have enjoyed some of the areas in this story and also spent a great afternoon in St Albans at The Settlers Arm enjoying the River, food and a cold wine.
November 10, 2022
A romance story set in Hunter Valley. Interesting descriptions of the local area and history of horse breeding in the Hunter.
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November 5, 2023Kindle
August 27, 2013
Reviewer: Danny
Rating: 3.5 out of 5 Fairies
Lily’s Leap was a refreshing, sweet read overall. At the beginning, we are introduced to Lilibeth Dungarven. She is born into a respectful family and bears the burden of running the family business at a young age. Her father is a drunkard who is unable to make wise decisions, so the family name and reputation depend on the Lily's business acumen.
I really enjoyed the landscape, the horses… The scenery was beautiful, the descriptions were sweet and enchanting. Lily’s pain and bitterness were palpable when she talked about Dom. Even though she wasn’t in love with her late husband, she held him in great regard. Honestly at the age that she married him, I understand why theirs was a platonic love and no spark of passion. Lily herself says that they were more friends than lovers. The circumstances surrounding the deaths of Dom and her mother broke my heart. I love how strong Lily is, that side of her character was charismatic and enchanting.
We meet Lily riding on her way to Sidney to make a sale, when her ride is interrupted by Tom and he takes Lily and her horses. What puzzled me throughout the story and made me go back and re-read whole chapters, thinking I might have missed something, was how easygoing Lily was after she was captured. I understand why she allowed herself to be taken hostage in the first place, given the explanation that she doesn’t want the horses hurt, since they are the finest the Dungarven had and cannot be replaced easily. But other than that one escape attempt, she really did not show resistance.
I didn’t feel convinced that Lily and Tom should be together. It felt forced and rushed. Half the time I wasn’t sure what was happening with them, to be honest. The news that Bonnie would marry Will slapped me across the face like a wet mop. It lacks realism: both Lily and Bonnie being kidnapped and falling in love with their captors. Other characters including Lily’s aunt do not seem bothered by the outcome either. The characters, action, and flow combined to make a cute read, albeit, a somewhat confusing one.
Disclosure: This book was provided by the author in exchange for an HONEST and not necessarily positive review.
Rating: 3.5 out of 5 Fairies
Lily’s Leap was a refreshing, sweet read overall. At the beginning, we are introduced to Lilibeth Dungarven. She is born into a respectful family and bears the burden of running the family business at a young age. Her father is a drunkard who is unable to make wise decisions, so the family name and reputation depend on the Lily's business acumen.
I really enjoyed the landscape, the horses… The scenery was beautiful, the descriptions were sweet and enchanting. Lily’s pain and bitterness were palpable when she talked about Dom. Even though she wasn’t in love with her late husband, she held him in great regard. Honestly at the age that she married him, I understand why theirs was a platonic love and no spark of passion. Lily herself says that they were more friends than lovers. The circumstances surrounding the deaths of Dom and her mother broke my heart. I love how strong Lily is, that side of her character was charismatic and enchanting.
We meet Lily riding on her way to Sidney to make a sale, when her ride is interrupted by Tom and he takes Lily and her horses. What puzzled me throughout the story and made me go back and re-read whole chapters, thinking I might have missed something, was how easygoing Lily was after she was captured. I understand why she allowed herself to be taken hostage in the first place, given the explanation that she doesn’t want the horses hurt, since they are the finest the Dungarven had and cannot be replaced easily. But other than that one escape attempt, she really did not show resistance.
I didn’t feel convinced that Lily and Tom should be together. It felt forced and rushed. Half the time I wasn’t sure what was happening with them, to be honest. The news that Bonnie would marry Will slapped me across the face like a wet mop. It lacks realism: both Lily and Bonnie being kidnapped and falling in love with their captors. Other characters including Lily’s aunt do not seem bothered by the outcome either. The characters, action, and flow combined to make a cute read, albeit, a somewhat confusing one.
Disclosure: This book was provided by the author in exchange for an HONEST and not necessarily positive review.
April 25, 2024
I really enjoy reading Australian HF and so Tea Cooper is one of my favourite Aussie authors.
This story was a novella it meant there was not a lot of time to develop the characters or the plot. However I think the author did a good job with both.
Lilibeth was a daring and fiesty character who knew what she wanted even though it was very different from how the society of the day expected women to be. The story takes place over a short period of one week. I read it as an e-book, in just one sitting,and enjoyed it very much. It was a perfect blend of history and adventure with a sweet romance threaded through the story.
This story was a novella it meant there was not a lot of time to develop the characters or the plot. However I think the author did a good job with both.
Lilibeth was a daring and fiesty character who knew what she wanted even though it was very different from how the society of the day expected women to be. The story takes place over a short period of one week. I read it as an e-book, in just one sitting,and enjoyed it very much. It was a perfect blend of history and adventure with a sweet romance threaded through the story.
October 8, 2022
A wonderful read! Having moved from authors who consistently revert to foul language, detailed sex scenes and violence to tell their story its wonderfully refreshing to find some historic fiction with a credible plot, wonderful scenery and a touch of romance. The writer holds your attention with each page and throughout the book there's an aura of hope that keeps pulling you back to complete the next chapter. (From an aged male reader delighted to have found an author who delivers pure, wholesome enjoyment.)
June 26, 2014
What a joy to read this wonderful historical rural romance. An adventure to keep you on the edge of your seat, a captivating heroine whose love of horses fed my own and a wonderful hero. Tea Cooper's vivid descriptions had me smelling the sharp scent of the eucalypts, experiencing the power and exhilaration of the black stallion's run and smiling at the sweet ending. Don't miss this book!
April 3, 2015
Good book the author had me on Nero jumping that wall Thankyou
November 8, 2016
A great read, thoroughly entertaining!
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