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Echo Point
Bron never intended to move back to Australia. Wracked with guilt over her sister Libby’s death, she’s spent three months trying to handle her grief while taking care of Libby’s young daughter, Annie.
Libby’s best friend Ally never had a chance to say good-bye to her dear friend. When she finally returns home, Ally finds Libby’s family open and welcoming…everyone, that is, except Libby’s sister Bron.
For her part, Bron can’t fathom why her family is so enamored with Ally—even offering her a job and a place to live—but grudgingly admires the way Ally and Annie get along.
While Bron contemplates moving Annie to Boston and away from the only home the little girl has ever known, bushfires begin to rage in the nearby mountains, and Bron begins to see that she’s sorely underestimated her sister’s friend.
Soon Ally’s past and Bron’s future collide—with a heat and wonder that neither of them expected.
Libby’s best friend Ally never had a chance to say good-bye to her dear friend. When she finally returns home, Ally finds Libby’s family open and welcoming…everyone, that is, except Libby’s sister Bron.
For her part, Bron can’t fathom why her family is so enamored with Ally—even offering her a job and a place to live—but grudgingly admires the way Ally and Annie get along.
While Bron contemplates moving Annie to Boston and away from the only home the little girl has ever known, bushfires begin to rage in the nearby mountains, and Bron begins to see that she’s sorely underestimated her sister’s friend.
Soon Ally’s past and Bron’s future collide—with a heat and wonder that neither of them expected.
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First published August 1, 2017
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About the author
Virginia Hale
4 books46 followersVirginia Hale lives in Sydney, Australia, and is currently working on her master’s degree in Children’s Literature. When she isn’t writing or studying, she is dreaming up trips to New York City and Boston. Her debut novel Echo Point—set in the heartland of the Blue Mountains, Australia—won a Golden Crown Literary Award in 2018.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews
March 14, 2020
The blurb is a bit deceiving, I imagined a lot more catastrophe and much less family drama here.
After the death of her sister, Libby, Bron comes back to Australia to raise her niece. She moves in with her unconventional family that consists of her step mother, step brother, niece and her sister's best friend, Ally, who recently got out on parole.
This book sucked me in from the beginning, it was so well written. This was as much of a romance as it was a family drama. The family and their interactions seemed completely authentic.
The chemistry between Ally and Bron was off the charts. Ally was a very complex and interesting character and I enjoyed every second of her. Sometimes she would say or do something that would leave Bron speechless and I loved her all the more for it. So many times I wished I knew what was going in her head. I completely understand why everyone was so smitten with Ally, including Bron, even though she liked to pretend otherwise. I love Ally and Bron, even though Bron did get on my nerves towards the end. This ended way so soon. I miss them already.
After the death of her sister, Libby, Bron comes back to Australia to raise her niece. She moves in with her unconventional family that consists of her step mother, step brother, niece and her sister's best friend, Ally, who recently got out on parole.
This book sucked me in from the beginning, it was so well written. This was as much of a romance as it was a family drama. The family and their interactions seemed completely authentic.
The chemistry between Ally and Bron was off the charts. Ally was a very complex and interesting character and I enjoyed every second of her. Sometimes she would say or do something that would leave Bron speechless and I loved her all the more for it. So many times I wished I knew what was going in her head. I completely understand why everyone was so smitten with Ally, including Bron, even though she liked to pretend otherwise. I love Ally and Bron, even though Bron did get on my nerves towards the end. This ended way so soon. I miss them already.
August 16, 2017
This was a really good romantic read. This is the second debut book Bella has put out this month. I don't know where Bella is getting all these excellent new authors, but once again I'm impressed. First Visiting Hours, now Echo Point, both of these romantic books were really good. I think I even enjoyed this book a tad more. I don't use quarter stars, but if I did, I'd rate this 4.25 Stars.
The story is about Bron who has returned to Australia, after her younger sister Libby's death. Bron, now has legal custody of Libby's daughter Annie. Bron is struggling with the decision to move back to Boston for her dream job, or raise Annie in the only home shes ever known. To make matters more confusing, Libby's best friend Ally, has just been released from jail. She is living with Bron's family, who are more family than her own. Bron has never known what to make of Ally. She is a proven troublemaker, how can she be trusted? Bron's life has been turned upside down, and with the arrival of Ally, nothing will ever be the same again.
I have mentioned this before. I don't know what it is about ex-cons finding love, I just seem to really enjoy. Maybe it is that it means everyone has a chance at love... for whatever reason, this story-line works for me. Add in that this books takes place in Australia, well it's a setting I absolutely enjoy.
The best way to describe this is a pure romance. While you are reading about characters dealing with a great loss of their loved one, this really is a feel good book. The characters are normal people with real issues. This book is not filled with unnecessary drama and angst, it is a really well written pure romance.
I have to admit, I didn't know what to think of the character of Ally at first. She is a bit brash and out there, but the more you know her, the more you know a lot of it is a front. She is a complex character, just really wanting to be loved. Bron is successful, and more conservative, trying to step into the role of a new mother, wondering how to always do the right thing. While this is a bit of opposites attract, what the two women have in common is their love for Libby and Annie. And for all you romance fans out there, have no fear, there is plenty of chemistry. These two are hot together period. I absolutely believed in them as a couple and hoped for a happily ever after.
I can absolutely recommend this to romance fans. I know people are going to enjoy this. Hale writes really well. This is great for a debut book, and great for a seasoned author. I will not hesitate one bit to read anything else by Hale.
An ARC was given to me by Bella, for a honest review.
The story is about Bron who has returned to Australia, after her younger sister Libby's death. Bron, now has legal custody of Libby's daughter Annie. Bron is struggling with the decision to move back to Boston for her dream job, or raise Annie in the only home shes ever known. To make matters more confusing, Libby's best friend Ally, has just been released from jail. She is living with Bron's family, who are more family than her own. Bron has never known what to make of Ally. She is a proven troublemaker, how can she be trusted? Bron's life has been turned upside down, and with the arrival of Ally, nothing will ever be the same again.
I have mentioned this before. I don't know what it is about ex-cons finding love, I just seem to really enjoy. Maybe it is that it means everyone has a chance at love... for whatever reason, this story-line works for me. Add in that this books takes place in Australia, well it's a setting I absolutely enjoy.
The best way to describe this is a pure romance. While you are reading about characters dealing with a great loss of their loved one, this really is a feel good book. The characters are normal people with real issues. This book is not filled with unnecessary drama and angst, it is a really well written pure romance.
I have to admit, I didn't know what to think of the character of Ally at first. She is a bit brash and out there, but the more you know her, the more you know a lot of it is a front. She is a complex character, just really wanting to be loved. Bron is successful, and more conservative, trying to step into the role of a new mother, wondering how to always do the right thing. While this is a bit of opposites attract, what the two women have in common is their love for Libby and Annie. And for all you romance fans out there, have no fear, there is plenty of chemistry. These two are hot together period. I absolutely believed in them as a couple and hoped for a happily ever after.
I can absolutely recommend this to romance fans. I know people are going to enjoy this. Hale writes really well. This is great for a debut book, and great for a seasoned author. I will not hesitate one bit to read anything else by Hale.
An ARC was given to me by Bella, for a honest review.
March 9, 2018
The blurb of this book is inadvertently misleading which can impact a reader's expectations. It sounds like this will be a highly dramatic book about a natural disaster that pushes an unlikely couple together. However, the book isn't that at all. In fact, there's little drama to be found which I actually preferred.
Instead, the story is about a non-conventional family and how they continue their lives with each other after one of them has died. The story is told from Bron's perspective, a forty year-old woman who returns to her hometown in Australia after her younger sister dies in an auto accident and she's now left as the guardian to her niece.
Due to the loss of a loved one, we might think the book is a downer but I didn't find it to be. There is a thread of melancholy but the loving family dynamics between all of the characters makes it more of a positive and heart-warming read. It's also a reluctant, on the part of Bron, romance.
The setting of the story is vivid and the daily interactions between the characters lends a believable realism. It's a read I felt I could really sink into.
The book also avoids the usual tropes and pitfalls I often see in the lesfic genre. The couple actually communicates pretty well, there's no breakup, no misunderstandings, etc. In that way, it's refreshing.
And, the writing itself is solid.
The one thing that was a little off for me were the dynamics between Bron and Ally. Bron is this mature responsible adult and always has been while Ally's the exact opposite, having spent most of her adult years in and out of incarceration and is generally a ne'er do well. I can absolutely see why Bron has the animosity and mistrust she does towards Ally but the family wants Bron (and us as readers) to give Ally a pass? Sure, we learn there are very good things about Ally and the author gives the couple time to get on more even emotional ground but the romance still felt like a mature forty year-old getting with a mercurial, not having lived as an adult yet, twenty year-old. And, I don't know, with the romance coming together after a long held, and for good reason, barrier falling pretty abruptly and with grief in the background, I mistrust it some. Maybe that's just me, though.
I put this around 4.3 stars and do recommend.
Instead, the story is about a non-conventional family and how they continue their lives with each other after one of them has died. The story is told from Bron's perspective, a forty year-old woman who returns to her hometown in Australia after her younger sister dies in an auto accident and she's now left as the guardian to her niece.
Due to the loss of a loved one, we might think the book is a downer but I didn't find it to be. There is a thread of melancholy but the loving family dynamics between all of the characters makes it more of a positive and heart-warming read. It's also a reluctant, on the part of Bron, romance.
The setting of the story is vivid and the daily interactions between the characters lends a believable realism. It's a read I felt I could really sink into.
The book also avoids the usual tropes and pitfalls I often see in the lesfic genre. The couple actually communicates pretty well, there's no breakup, no misunderstandings, etc. In that way, it's refreshing.
And, the writing itself is solid.
The one thing that was a little off for me were the dynamics between Bron and Ally. Bron is this mature responsible adult and always has been while Ally's the exact opposite, having spent most of her adult years in and out of incarceration and is generally a ne'er do well. I can absolutely see why Bron has the animosity and mistrust she does towards Ally but the family wants Bron (and us as readers) to give Ally a pass? Sure, we learn there are very good things about Ally and the author gives the couple time to get on more even emotional ground but the romance still felt like a mature forty year-old getting with a mercurial, not having lived as an adult yet, twenty year-old. And, I don't know, with the romance coming together after a long held, and for good reason, barrier falling pretty abruptly and with grief in the background, I mistrust it some. Maybe that's just me, though.
I put this around 4.3 stars and do recommend.
December 30, 2017
Echo Point is a debut novel by Virginia Hale, but without any of the typical first novel shortcomings. It is a warm story of love, loss and family, set in the town of Katoomba in the Blue Mountains, a region west of Sydney in Australia's New South Wales. The setting is really interesting, very well described, and plays a nice role in the narrative.
The main characters, Bron (40) and Ally (33), are two likable real to life people with real to life problems, and their believable romance develops at a nice comfortable pace. The author did a great job with them, as well as with secondary characters -- the child character of Annie (6) especially stands out.
Overall, this is a lovely book, full of feeling and very well worth reading. A very solid novel which definitely did not feel like a debut. I very much liked it and recommend it.
4.25 stars
August 2, 2017
*A review copy of this book was provided by the publisher.*
The main characters, Bron (40) and Ally (33), are two likable real to life people with real to life problems, and their believable romance develops at a nice comfortable pace. The author did a great job with them, as well as with secondary characters -- the child character of Annie (6) especially stands out.
Overall, this is a lovely book, full of feeling and very well worth reading. A very solid novel which definitely did not feel like a debut. I very much liked it and recommend it.
4.25 stars
August 2, 2017
*A review copy of this book was provided by the publisher.*
June 24, 2019
This ended way too soon, I wasn't ready to let go. Oh well.
I read this book a year ago almost to the day, and I remembered I'd liked it well enough to give it 4*. I didn't write a review at the time though. So here I am, giving it 4* again. The reason I reread Echo Point is that after the emotional whirlwind of The Secret Chord, I wanted more of Virginia Hale's stories. She's really good at building tension and has a thing for forbidden (or perceived as forbidden) love. Her writing is really good in a no-frill way, and I love the characters she creates. They feel very real, with strengths and weaknesses, pasts and mistakes, desires and passion.
And while the premise of this novel is awfully sad (the death of Bron's sister and Ally's best friend), the book itself isn't. On the contrary, it's full of hope and life and joie de vivre. Very well-done.
I read this book a year ago almost to the day, and I remembered I'd liked it well enough to give it 4*. I didn't write a review at the time though. So here I am, giving it 4* again. The reason I reread Echo Point is that after the emotional whirlwind of The Secret Chord, I wanted more of Virginia Hale's stories. She's really good at building tension and has a thing for forbidden (or perceived as forbidden) love. Her writing is really good in a no-frill way, and I love the characters she creates. They feel very real, with strengths and weaknesses, pasts and mistakes, desires and passion.
And while the premise of this novel is awfully sad (the death of Bron's sister and Ally's best friend), the book itself isn't. On the contrary, it's full of hope and life and joie de vivre. Very well-done.
November 2, 2018
My first read by Ms.Hale, some experienced+trustworthy Lesfic reviewers read and reviewed the book brilliantly so you'll need to check them out before clicking the purchase button for USD7.44
Ally was the main pursuer in this relationship, she had been in love with her bestie's older sister since she was 15 and since they were both back to Echo Point it was time to launch 'Get Bronwyn To Fall For Me Too Plan' and making plans to improve herself after being an inmate for the past 5 years.
Being an ex con did not determine her attitude, she was a sweetheart through and through.
I didn't like the caused of her imprisonment, it took her away from Libby and missed out on Annie growing up.
Bronwyn was quite difficult to like in the beginning and midway, but her love towards her lil sister, niece, mother and brother knew no bounds. The only problem she had was with Ally but layer by layer her judgemental attitude towards Ally began to dissolve and she found herself giving up a promising career and staying behind with those who matter.
Bronwyn and Ally as a couple, for sure it was going to happen and thankfully it didn't happen immediately. There were some really minor dramas but nothing prolonged, even when another woman threw in to stir the jealousy pot momentarily, Ally and Bron exchanged a few meaningful words in the kitchen and that scene really wowed me.
A special shout out to Annie, Jackie and Daniel. If you have at least one of them on you side, you're good for life.
Ally was the main pursuer in this relationship, she had been in love with her bestie's older sister since she was 15 and since they were both back to Echo Point it was time to launch 'Get Bronwyn To Fall For Me Too Plan' and making plans to improve herself after being an inmate for the past 5 years.
Being an ex con did not determine her attitude, she was a sweetheart through and through.
I didn't like the caused of her imprisonment, it took her away from Libby and missed out on Annie growing up.
Bronwyn was quite difficult to like in the beginning and midway, but her love towards her lil sister, niece, mother and brother knew no bounds. The only problem she had was with Ally but layer by layer her judgemental attitude towards Ally began to dissolve and she found herself giving up a promising career and staying behind with those who matter.
Bronwyn and Ally as a couple, for sure it was going to happen and thankfully it didn't happen immediately. There were some really minor dramas but nothing prolonged, even when another woman threw in to stir the jealousy pot momentarily, Ally and Bron exchanged a few meaningful words in the kitchen and that scene really wowed me.
A special shout out to Annie, Jackie and Daniel. If you have at least one of them on you side, you're good for life.
August 30, 2019
This one was a little disappointing. Perhaps because it was highly recommended to me. This is my second book by Ms Hale. ‘The Secret Chord’ was my first, and also a very good read. This one was also well written but I just could not connect with the mains. Yes, Ally seemed to be nice, but had no real redeeming qualities and a questionable past of not so great decisions. Do not see those two characters together or why Bron decided to pay attention to Ally when she did. I loved the description of grief throughout the book though. The child is also cute and well done. The cover was a big miss in terms of matching the content of the book. Yes, the characters live near Echo Point, but other than that it does not suit the story.
Will definitely read this author in the future but would recommend ‘The Secret Chord’ over this one to begin with.
Will definitely read this author in the future but would recommend ‘The Secret Chord’ over this one to begin with.
January 16, 2018
Impressive character development for a book of less than 200 pages. I admit I was worried this was going to be another insta-love romance but the author pulled back her leading ladies and gave them a chance to find themselves before they found each other. I loved how you could feel the heat and smell the smoke from the bush fires.
Lots of potential in this debut author. Well done.
Lots of potential in this debut author. Well done.
April 28, 2018
This was a quick and fairly enjoyable read. I say fairly because I really didn't like Bron in the beginning because she is so judgmental. I gradually warmed up to her character as the story progressed only to go back to hating her towards the end of the book.
I hate it when a character is written in such a way that all I want is for the book to be over because I can't get over how much I dislike them. However don't let this review keep you from reading this book because there are plenty of other readers who really liked it. It is by no means poorly written and this is purely based on my personal feelings. It just wasn't my cup of tea.
I hate it when a character is written in such a way that all I want is for the book to be over because I can't get over how much I dislike them. However don't let this review keep you from reading this book because there are plenty of other readers who really liked it. It is by no means poorly written and this is purely based on my personal feelings. It just wasn't my cup of tea.
October 15, 2020
Echo Point was the perfect 2018 Goldy Award winning debut by the very talented Virginia Hale. Her following books Where There’s a Will and A Secret Chord were both 5 star reads for me and this one is no different. Her books are Australian to the core and I just love everything about them.
I held off reading Echo Point because after this there are no more books left to savor (if you see this, Virginia, I hope you are working on your 4th novel!) and now it’s done I can only sing the author’s praises again. What a lovely story. Hale infuses warmth and realism into her scenes with just the right amount of heat and drama, no added angst for the sake of it and a bit left of center. I’ve mentioned it before, but Australia produces magnificent writers!
So, this story is all about love and loss and family (be it by blood or not), set in the town of Katoomba in the Blue Mountains (New South Wales). As always, Hale is pretty generous with her descriptions of the landscape to make it come alive.
Protagonists Bronwyn (Bron) (40) and Ally (33) are very well fleshed out and the obstacles on the way to romance are portrayed in a believable fashion. No insta-love or communication failures here. Hurrah! And I loved little Annie, she will steal your heart.
Overall, a very solid debut by Victoria Hale and a fairly quick read (under 200 pages) I highly recommend! Read all three books if you haven’t already!
f/f
Themes: Australia, ex-con, on parole, summer in Oz is brutal, bringing up your dead sister’s daughter, bush fire, Christmas, two choices.
5 Stars
I held off reading Echo Point because after this there are no more books left to savor (if you see this, Virginia, I hope you are working on your 4th novel!) and now it’s done I can only sing the author’s praises again. What a lovely story. Hale infuses warmth and realism into her scenes with just the right amount of heat and drama, no added angst for the sake of it and a bit left of center. I’ve mentioned it before, but Australia produces magnificent writers!
So, this story is all about love and loss and family (be it by blood or not), set in the town of Katoomba in the Blue Mountains (New South Wales). As always, Hale is pretty generous with her descriptions of the landscape to make it come alive.
Protagonists Bronwyn (Bron) (40) and Ally (33) are very well fleshed out and the obstacles on the way to romance are portrayed in a believable fashion. No insta-love or communication failures here. Hurrah! And I loved little Annie, she will steal your heart.
Overall, a very solid debut by Victoria Hale and a fairly quick read (under 200 pages) I highly recommend! Read all three books if you haven’t already!
f/f
Themes: Australia, ex-con, on parole, summer in Oz is brutal, bringing up your dead sister’s daughter, bush fire, Christmas, two choices.
5 Stars
December 6, 2019
So, Im a little thrown by my own rating of this book... On the one hand, it was enjoyable enough to be a 5, on the other hand, i feel unsatisfied. Or maybe i just described Oscar Wilde's version of a cigarette - exquisite, yet leaving you totally unsatisfied - the perfect pleasure.
This is my first book by Hale
i really enjoyed Hale's writing, the flow, the pace, the way it was written, her individual style totally worked for me.
What left me unsatisfied... You know that feeling when you're reading a new book and reach that 1/3 mark - and now you have a feel of the setting, the characters, the dilemmas, etc? And now youre waiting to see how the story unfolds? I kind of had that exact feeling with this book, except it was as soon as i finished it.
i feel as though, as a reader, i wasnt given sufficient information as to why the conflicts were there exactly (apart from the threadbare surface explanation), and so the resolution of the issues between the two MCs left me feeling like id missed an important conversation or moment of truth. Also, the behaviour - I didn't really understand it totally. and so the resolution again felt incomplete.
But, i enjoyed reading it so much that, despite feeling this way, it was a 4 star read through and through. there was just something about the writing that really worked well for me.
This is my first book by Hale
i really enjoyed Hale's writing, the flow, the pace, the way it was written, her individual style totally worked for me.
What left me unsatisfied... You know that feeling when you're reading a new book and reach that 1/3 mark - and now you have a feel of the setting, the characters, the dilemmas, etc? And now youre waiting to see how the story unfolds? I kind of had that exact feeling with this book, except it was as soon as i finished it.
i feel as though, as a reader, i wasnt given sufficient information as to why the conflicts were there exactly (apart from the threadbare surface explanation), and so the resolution of the issues between the two MCs left me feeling like id missed an important conversation or moment of truth. Also, the behaviour - I didn't really understand it totally. and so the resolution again felt incomplete.
But, i enjoyed reading it so much that, despite feeling this way, it was a 4 star read through and through. there was just something about the writing that really worked well for me.
June 25, 2019
I want to thank Gaby because without her lesfic quizz, I don't know how long this book would have kept gathering electronical dust in my reader before I finally decide to read it.
This book was being push back down in my tbr list because the blurb made think it would be heavy subject but badly written. Turns out the blurb is probably badly written.
It's heavy subject yeah, but not where you think it would.
While grief is present in all its greasy, greedy, guilty shapes, it's not what create the most tension in the book. The attirance and emotional history between the two main is. Their story goes far into their childhood, the oldest not being the more mature in this case, which finally put them on an equal footing.
They are seconded by a small but well shape cast of secondary characters that warms the heart.
The writing is beautiful, litterary so, with australian dry hot air, the smell of smoke, and choices and mistakes, and going forward.
It's definitely one of my book of the year ^^
This book was being push back down in my tbr list because the blurb made think it would be heavy subject but badly written. Turns out the blurb is probably badly written.
It's heavy subject yeah, but not where you think it would.
While grief is present in all its greasy, greedy, guilty shapes, it's not what create the most tension in the book. The attirance and emotional history between the two main is. Their story goes far into their childhood, the oldest not being the more mature in this case, which finally put them on an equal footing.
They are seconded by a small but well shape cast of secondary characters that warms the heart.
The writing is beautiful, litterary so, with australian dry hot air, the smell of smoke, and choices and mistakes, and going forward.
It's definitely one of my book of the year ^^
September 29, 2017
Echo Point, the debut novel by Virginia Hale, is a beautiful love story. Set in the Blue Mountains, in the west of Sidney, the story is about family, loss, love and prejudices.
Bron, her sister Libby and Ally new each other since they were teenagers (Ally and Libby) and Bron was a young adult. Ally was the best friend of Libby, but Bron never liked and trusted her.
Because of a tragedy, Bron has to return from Boston to her hometown Katoomba, to take full custody for Annie, the six year old daughter of Libby. And she has to make some tough decisions about staying in Katoomba, where Annie feels at home or returning to Boston for her dreamjob, which was offerd to her, and bring Annie in a new and strange environment without the rest of the family. Adding Ally, who has just been released form jail and was staying at home too, was stressing her even more.
The romance developes in a nice pace. The characters are very loveable, even if you have to get to know Ally a bit, before you can see the real person. And what I liked the most, the hole setting of the story is from real life. Virginia Hale describes the people and the landscape very well. Also the second characters are very well developed and play an important role in the story, especially the funny and lovely Annie.
I fully recommend this story and give this book 4+ stars.
Bron, her sister Libby and Ally new each other since they were teenagers (Ally and Libby) and Bron was a young adult. Ally was the best friend of Libby, but Bron never liked and trusted her.
Because of a tragedy, Bron has to return from Boston to her hometown Katoomba, to take full custody for Annie, the six year old daughter of Libby. And she has to make some tough decisions about staying in Katoomba, where Annie feels at home or returning to Boston for her dreamjob, which was offerd to her, and bring Annie in a new and strange environment without the rest of the family. Adding Ally, who has just been released form jail and was staying at home too, was stressing her even more.
The romance developes in a nice pace. The characters are very loveable, even if you have to get to know Ally a bit, before you can see the real person. And what I liked the most, the hole setting of the story is from real life. Virginia Hale describes the people and the landscape very well. Also the second characters are very well developed and play an important role in the story, especially the funny and lovely Annie.
I fully recommend this story and give this book 4+ stars.
May 30, 2018
This book is in my list of recommended books of the month:
https://lezreviewbooks.wordpress.com/...
Beautiful love story set in the Blue mountains near Sidney in Australia. This is not just a romance: it's a story of loss, family ties and redemption. Don't expect heroines or larger than life characters: Ally and Bron are better described by their flaws and missteps - and maybe because of them - the reader can sympathise and redeem them before they do.
Nothing major happens in this book, which is set in the aftermath of Libby's accidental death. She leaves behind her sister Bron, her best friend Ally and her little daughter. This book is the story of how they cope with the loss in their everyday lives and how they change them in the process.
The author's description of the landscape is vivid and picturesque. The bushfires and intense heat are a metaphor of the passions at stake. Ms. Hale knows how to build up the tension and the chemistry between Bron and Ally rages like a bushfire: uncontrollable, hot and consuming.
Overall, a very solid debut novel and a highly recommended romance. 5 stars.
ARC provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
See my other reviews at
www.lezreviewbooks.wordpress.com
https://lezreviewbooks.wordpress.com/...
Beautiful love story set in the Blue mountains near Sidney in Australia. This is not just a romance: it's a story of loss, family ties and redemption. Don't expect heroines or larger than life characters: Ally and Bron are better described by their flaws and missteps - and maybe because of them - the reader can sympathise and redeem them before they do.
Nothing major happens in this book, which is set in the aftermath of Libby's accidental death. She leaves behind her sister Bron, her best friend Ally and her little daughter. This book is the story of how they cope with the loss in their everyday lives and how they change them in the process.
The author's description of the landscape is vivid and picturesque. The bushfires and intense heat are a metaphor of the passions at stake. Ms. Hale knows how to build up the tension and the chemistry between Bron and Ally rages like a bushfire: uncontrollable, hot and consuming.
Overall, a very solid debut novel and a highly recommended romance. 5 stars.
ARC provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
See my other reviews at
www.lezreviewbooks.wordpress.com
April 25, 2018
This is such a good book. I like the romance, the family and how they interact with each other. It is kind of slice-of-life type of book, i think. It always gave me a peace of mind. I enjoyed it. Also, the book didnt have too much/many drama conflict that usually happened between main characters in the romance books. It only had little drama to be found which i like and prefered :) somehow i like the ending as well . I dont know i just like that scene.
And Echo Point is going to be in my Place-To-Go list when i happen to visit Sydney one day. God! I had been living in Australia for 10 years and never been out of Melbourne at all 😱
And Echo Point is going to be in my Place-To-Go list when i happen to visit Sydney one day. God! I had been living in Australia for 10 years and never been out of Melbourne at all 😱
September 10, 2017
3.5 rounded up. I liked the book. I found Ally a very interesting and likeable main character. Her obvious pining for Bron was endearing. Bron's character is just down right annoying at times. Even though overall I found the story enjoyable, I feel there was a bit of false advertising in the description regarding the bush fires. If, like me, that peaks your interest-you will be very disappointed.
September 3, 2017
Good read in an Aussie setting which I always love! I liked how different Bron and Ally were but both complemented each other.
Sweet romance!
Sweet romance!
October 27, 2020
Well written details about the house and objects and noises, that made you feel like you were really there. I loved the premise of the storyline. But it didn't go deep enough for me.
However Bron the main protagonist is quite unlikable. She has very little redeeming factors about her. Which makes it so hard when the entire novel is from her point of view, and seemingly about her.
It also made the attraction Ally has for her incomprehensible. She does nothing but put Ally down, make snide remarks and draw attention to all her failings - so what kind of masochistic issues poor Ally has to make her drawn to someone such as that, just made me feel bad for her character.
I had to scoff when toward the end Ally declares that Bron makes her feel like a good person and she wants to be good. I was like ummmm no, she's often reminded you you're a shit person, who will never change and is only taking advantage... WTF?
Bron only seems to look out for Bron, constantly saying she's going back to Boston and her career prospects, and considering taking her 6 year old niece away from all she's ever known. Even after the kid's psychologist out right tells her it's not a good idea, and that Annie (the niece) is already worried about being abandoned or having to leave her family. Bron just steamrolls on. Never committing one way or another for months.
In the aftermath of Bron and Ally sleeping together, Bron tries to sabotage things there again. Even having the nerve to ask about STI/STD's and when the last time she was with anyone, to which Ally responds that she would never put her at risk, and hasn't been with anyone in years. Bron is unsure. But it doesn't stop her from continuing to fuck Ally, and Ally letting her. Then suddenly she's in love with Ally?
I feel I severely missed something, because there was no connection from her side at all. I couldn't feel it, or believe it in any way. So she decides to stay and work in Australia.
It ends pretty quickly, and it just left me cold and confused.
However Bron the main protagonist is quite unlikable. She has very little redeeming factors about her. Which makes it so hard when the entire novel is from her point of view, and seemingly about her.
It also made the attraction Ally has for her incomprehensible. She does nothing but put Ally down, make snide remarks and draw attention to all her failings - so what kind of masochistic issues poor Ally has to make her drawn to someone such as that, just made me feel bad for her character.
I had to scoff when toward the end Ally declares that Bron makes her feel like a good person and she wants to be good. I was like ummmm no, she's often reminded you you're a shit person, who will never change and is only taking advantage... WTF?
Bron only seems to look out for Bron, constantly saying she's going back to Boston and her career prospects, and considering taking her 6 year old niece away from all she's ever known. Even after the kid's psychologist out right tells her it's not a good idea, and that Annie (the niece) is already worried about being abandoned or having to leave her family. Bron just steamrolls on. Never committing one way or another for months.
In the aftermath of Bron and Ally sleeping together, Bron tries to sabotage things there again. Even having the nerve to ask about STI/STD's and when the last time she was with anyone, to which Ally responds that she would never put her at risk, and hasn't been with anyone in years. Bron is unsure. But it doesn't stop her from continuing to fuck Ally, and Ally letting her. Then suddenly she's in love with Ally?
I feel I severely missed something, because there was no connection from her side at all. I couldn't feel it, or believe it in any way. So she decides to stay and work in Australia.
It ends pretty quickly, and it just left me cold and confused.
August 29, 2017
This is a great read, nothing is over-dramatised, even when dealing with several very emotional subjects.
This is the second book in a row I've read where the love interest earns a spot on my "fav character" shelf. Through Bron's narration, we get to slowly see the real Ally and the slow burn coupled with character growth for both MCs is superb.
Echo Point is a real slice of life with a cast of characters who are easy to relate to regardless of their circumstances. The final push from 4.5 to 5 stars for me was Hale's skilful avoidance of certain tropes while maintaining a sweet and engrossing read.
Highly recommend.
This is the second book in a row I've read where the love interest earns a spot on my "fav character" shelf. Through Bron's narration, we get to slowly see the real Ally and the slow burn coupled with character growth for both MCs is superb.
Echo Point is a real slice of life with a cast of characters who are easy to relate to regardless of their circumstances. The final push from 4.5 to 5 stars for me was Hale's skilful avoidance of certain tropes while maintaining a sweet and engrossing read.
Highly recommend.
August 18, 2018
This has been on my currently reading list for a while. It took me a couple of chapters to settle in and learn the characters. After that the flow was pleasant, and the characters charming. I will be reading this one again.
June 2, 2022
Ok read… A 7 years gap between the 2 MCs, Bron & Ally, who are near opposite of each other. The common denominator between the 2 is that they are both staying under the same roof which happened to be Bron’s family home. Living under the same roof besides Bron and Ally are Bron’s step mum & brother, as well as Annie, Bron’s niece whose mum has passed on and who was Ally’s bestie. They both love Annie and will move mountain if push comes to shove. Relations between Bron and Ally weren’t warm initially but grew over time. The book follows the relationship between Bron and Ally and how it went from cold to lukewarm to them finding their HEA. Nothing too dramatic and not much angst.
April 8, 2018
3 1/5 stars. This is an enjoyable read, setting in one of Australia’s scenic spot, the Blue Mountains. The scenery of Katoomba and the iconic The Three Sisters have brought back fond memories of my holiday there a couple of years ago. The book centres on Bronwyn Lee who has come home to Katoomba from Boston to look after her now orphaned niece, Annie. Her sister, Libby was killed in a car accident. Bron, along with her stepmother Jackie and half-brother Daniel are all trying to cope with their sad loss. Ally Shepherd, Libby’s best friend is staying with the family after being released on parole. Ally has been in love with Bron since she came out as a teenager, but the feeling wasn’t mutual for Bron.... or is it? The hot summer sees the town on high alert due to threats of bushfires. Things tense up in the Lee’s household, that brings up tension between Bron and Ally. Will Bron overcome her bitterness and differences with Ally? Only time will tell....
The only reason why I gave a 3 1/2 and not 4 is because I felt the story felt rushed in some parts, leaving some questions unanswered.
The only reason why I gave a 3 1/2 and not 4 is because I felt the story felt rushed in some parts, leaving some questions unanswered.
January 1, 2018
Echo Point is very easy to read. The writing is smooth, the characters are compelling, and the pacing works very well. It also feels very Australian, rather than being a story that feels like it could be set anywhere.
Full review: http://www.thelesbianreview.com/echo-...
Full review: http://www.thelesbianreview.com/echo-...
May 11, 2021
This one is set in Australia, a place I sadly have not been (yet), but throughout these pages I found myself texting an Australian friend, peppering her with questions such as "what are gum boots," "what's an ute," "What do you call the back of a truck? (do you mean a ute?). I also poured over maps looking for destinations that are mentioned, I loved that.
It was a good read, kept my interest, but didn't fully wow me. I did like Ally's character, though was slow to warm to Bron. The family dynamics and unique family quirks kept the story moving for me. For some reason I didn't fully feel the sparks and chemistry that other reviewers did. Huh.
It was a good read, kept my interest, but didn't fully wow me. I did like Ally's character, though was slow to warm to Bron. The family dynamics and unique family quirks kept the story moving for me. For some reason I didn't fully feel the sparks and chemistry that other reviewers did. Huh.
May 30, 2020
A new author for me: was surprisingly moved by this story - well written, bit quick at the end (mutter mutter) but a lovely tale that is well worth a read. Thank you.
December 7, 2017
This book was alright. It was not my favorite book, but it was not the worst novel I read. I mostly felt like the two main characters, Bron and Ally did not have enough character development. Bron did not seem to evolve a whole lot throughout the book, and neither did Ally. Ally, fresh out of prison, came to Bron's stepmother's house after the death of Bron's sister. Bron came home to take care of her niece and mourn for her sister.
Ally had always loved Bron and that seemed to just be her entire personality. The whole storyline between them did not keep me super interested, as I was not extremely curious what happened next. I felt like their romance was not that great. I felt like they just went for it since they both thought each other was attractive, but I did not feel a deep connection between the two. The story line seemed interesting, but it was not. I was disappointed. This is not a book I would recommend or read again.
Ally had always loved Bron and that seemed to just be her entire personality. The whole storyline between them did not keep me super interested, as I was not extremely curious what happened next. I felt like their romance was not that great. I felt like they just went for it since they both thought each other was attractive, but I did not feel a deep connection between the two. The story line seemed interesting, but it was not. I was disappointed. This is not a book I would recommend or read again.
September 1, 2019
I'm glad Bron and Ally got their sh*t together 'cause this was a pretty sweet read.
February 19, 2018
This debut book, is very good, and doesn't seem to be a debut. It's a love story, between 2 characters (Bron, 40 and Ally, 33), likable and who have problems of real life, so we can easily identify with them. I give 5 stars because I have been impressed by the quality of this book. Bella Books knows how to find that kind of "pépite". And i recommend it "fiercely"...
April 26, 2020
A very solid romance set in the Blue Mountains which was captured brilliantly. I really enjoyed the story and it has a very satisfying ending.
May 28, 2018
what happens when you take a talented author, an unremarkable premise, and a main character who is truly unlikable for 60% of the novel before inexplicably doing an about-face to very easily fall into a relationship with a woman she absolutely does not deserve?
mm, well, this book, i guess.
im looking forward to the next book from this author, because even though it was painfully grating to try to empathize with the insufferable main character for so long, it was technically well written and had most of the ingredients for what i look for in a romance novel.
mm, well, this book, i guess.
im looking forward to the next book from this author, because even though it was painfully grating to try to empathize with the insufferable main character for so long, it was technically well written and had most of the ingredients for what i look for in a romance novel.
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