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Bunyip Bay #5
Outback Secrets
Keeping secrets comes naturally to him ... but will it ruin his chance at love?
Liam Castle knows the secrets of everyone in Bunyip Bay. As the owner of the pub, he's heard it all - from marriage proposals and farming disasters to family rifts and everything in between. The locals love to confide in him, but no one knows he's hiding a tragic past.
And he wants to keep it that way.
Agricultural pilot Henrietta Forward lives for her job, choosing work over romance. But when an incident in the air brings Henri home to Bunyip Bay earlier than planned, she finds herself questioning everything she believes about herself.
But Henri's secret isn't her only problem.
Her mother will stop at nothing to have her settled down back in the Bay, and while Henri had always known domesticity wasn't the life for her, now she wonders what her future holds. So when Liam - always the first to lend a hand to those in need - agrees to play along with Henri's scheme to ward off her mother, she has mixed feelings. What happens when a pretend romance starts to feel like the real thing?
Will Henri's demons and Liam's traumatic past prove too great a barrier to love?
Liam Castle knows the secrets of everyone in Bunyip Bay. As the owner of the pub, he's heard it all - from marriage proposals and farming disasters to family rifts and everything in between. The locals love to confide in him, but no one knows he's hiding a tragic past.
And he wants to keep it that way.
Agricultural pilot Henrietta Forward lives for her job, choosing work over romance. But when an incident in the air brings Henri home to Bunyip Bay earlier than planned, she finds herself questioning everything she believes about herself.
But Henri's secret isn't her only problem.
Her mother will stop at nothing to have her settled down back in the Bay, and while Henri had always known domesticity wasn't the life for her, now she wonders what her future holds. So when Liam - always the first to lend a hand to those in need - agrees to play along with Henri's scheme to ward off her mother, she has mixed feelings. What happens when a pretend romance starts to feel like the real thing?
Will Henri's demons and Liam's traumatic past prove too great a barrier to love?
380 pages, Paperback
Published October 27, 2021
36 people are currently reading
306 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 127 reviews
October 29, 2021
Henrietta Forward’s family lived in Bunyip Bay, WA, where she’d grown up, but her flying job kept her away from home a lot. Now with Christmas coming up, and an incident which had shaken her confidence, she was home in the Bay earlier than usual. If only she could put up with her mother continually nagging her about finding a husband and settling down to have children! Henri’s dad had passed a few years prior and she missed him dreadfully – another reason why it was hard sometimes to go home. But with her sister and two brothers, plus their partners and kids, she knew she’d enjoy herself most of the time anyway.
Liam Castle owned The Palace, the local pub, and since he’d bought it from the previous owner ten years prior, the pub was a meeting place for the townsfolk. Liam had renovated it, and loved his job, listening to the customers, keeping control of the few drunks that occasionally graced the bar, and meeting new people when the tourists were around. When Henri first walked into the bar, Liam was gobsmacked. He hadn’t seen her around before, but he liked what he saw. And when Henri came up with a plan for the two of them, why on earth did Liam agree?
Outback Secrets is the 5th in the Bunyip Bay series by Aussie author Rachael Johns and I enjoyed it very much. It’s been awhile since #4 – over 5 years ago – and it was great to go back to Bunyip Bay! I wish I could really visit 😉 Liam and Henri are two very complex characters, and Sheila, Liam’s dog, was gorgeous! All in all, Outback Secrets is a book I can easily recommend.
With thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
Liam Castle owned The Palace, the local pub, and since he’d bought it from the previous owner ten years prior, the pub was a meeting place for the townsfolk. Liam had renovated it, and loved his job, listening to the customers, keeping control of the few drunks that occasionally graced the bar, and meeting new people when the tourists were around. When Henri first walked into the bar, Liam was gobsmacked. He hadn’t seen her around before, but he liked what he saw. And when Henri came up with a plan for the two of them, why on earth did Liam agree?
Outback Secrets is the 5th in the Bunyip Bay series by Aussie author Rachael Johns and I enjoyed it very much. It’s been awhile since #4 – over 5 years ago – and it was great to go back to Bunyip Bay! I wish I could really visit 😉 Liam and Henri are two very complex characters, and Sheila, Liam’s dog, was gorgeous! All in all, Outback Secrets is a book I can easily recommend.
With thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
September 12, 2024
Henrietta Forward loves her job as a light plane pilot, she musters cattle and works as a crop duster. Henri grew up on a farm, she likes her independence, and not being in the same place for long. With a knowledge of animals, crops and flying, her job suits her perfectly and Henri has the best of both worlds. After an alarming indecent she returns home to Bunyip Bay, to the family property called Bungara Springs, and she's staying with her mum.
Liam Castle owns and runs the pub in Bunyip Bay, not much happens in town that he doesn’t know about, and he doesn’t mention his own past. He’s from America, single, very good looking and a bit of a mystery man. Henri’s mum’s wants her daughter to settle down, stop gallivanting around, get married and start having babies. The last thing that Henri wants, she likes her freedom, she’s not all that keen on having children and maybe Liam and Henri would make the perfect couple?
They decided to play along with the idea, it will solve Henri’s problems, and the town’s matchmakers will leave them both alone. What they didn’t take into consideration, is that they have fun together, the chemistry between them is electric, the sparks fly, and can they keep their relationship platonic?
Outback Secrets is a story full of small town drama, slightly dysfunctional families, dealing with the loss of loved ones, keeping of secrets, facing fears, life's challenges and a hot romance. Rachael Johns has done it again, I always love the characters in her books, the use of Aussie language, being set in Australia, and it made me laugh out loud. Thanks to NetGalley and Harlequin Australia for my copy, and five big stars from me.
Liam Castle owns and runs the pub in Bunyip Bay, not much happens in town that he doesn’t know about, and he doesn’t mention his own past. He’s from America, single, very good looking and a bit of a mystery man. Henri’s mum’s wants her daughter to settle down, stop gallivanting around, get married and start having babies. The last thing that Henri wants, she likes her freedom, she’s not all that keen on having children and maybe Liam and Henri would make the perfect couple?
They decided to play along with the idea, it will solve Henri’s problems, and the town’s matchmakers will leave them both alone. What they didn’t take into consideration, is that they have fun together, the chemistry between them is electric, the sparks fly, and can they keep their relationship platonic?
Outback Secrets is a story full of small town drama, slightly dysfunctional families, dealing with the loss of loved ones, keeping of secrets, facing fears, life's challenges and a hot romance. Rachael Johns has done it again, I always love the characters in her books, the use of Aussie language, being set in Australia, and it made me laugh out loud. Thanks to NetGalley and Harlequin Australia for my copy, and five big stars from me.
October 25, 2021
Woohoo I did love my trip back to Bunyip Bay, it is like being back with family and close friends and Rachael Johns has written another beautiful story this time publican Liam Castle gets to find the love of his life and forever happiness with Agricultural pilot Henrietta Forward born and breed in Bunyip Bay and now home for Christmas this is one that will leave you feeling so very good, lots of happy smiles and tears from me.
We have gotten to know Liam in the previous stories and know that he is a quiet gentleman but as publican Liam knows a lot of secrets about a lot of locals and keeps them to himself, but no one really knows Liam and the tragic secret he keeps about his life and that is the way he wants it to stay. Life will change for Liam when tough and beautiful Ag pilot Henri walks into the pub, back in town to spend Christmas with her family and she sets his heart aflutter like no one has done before.
Henri travels around Australia and the world doing the job she loves but her mother wants nothing more than for her to be settled and happily married and living back home in Bunyip Bay and this is not on Henri’s life plan, so when she says something maybe she shouldn’t have and Liam as always is happy to help and steps up to be her pretend boyfriend for her visit home, her heart is changing the way she looks to the future.
This is a moving and beautiful story filled with emotion and so much love as Henri and Liam get to know each other opening up to each other like they have to no one else but Henri has worries and Liam has such tragedies from his past that their future together and the love and happiness they so deserve could fall apart. I was cheering them on so much and there were lots of tears from me in this one as Rachel Johns has dug deep into their emotions and has given her readers another story that is not to be missed, I loved this one, another for the keeper shelf and a great Christmas story, fingers crossed we can re-visit Bunyip Bay again one day. I do highly recommend this one, it is a beautiful romance.
My thanks to Harlequin AU for my copy to read and review and Netgalley as well.
We have gotten to know Liam in the previous stories and know that he is a quiet gentleman but as publican Liam knows a lot of secrets about a lot of locals and keeps them to himself, but no one really knows Liam and the tragic secret he keeps about his life and that is the way he wants it to stay. Life will change for Liam when tough and beautiful Ag pilot Henri walks into the pub, back in town to spend Christmas with her family and she sets his heart aflutter like no one has done before.
Henri travels around Australia and the world doing the job she loves but her mother wants nothing more than for her to be settled and happily married and living back home in Bunyip Bay and this is not on Henri’s life plan, so when she says something maybe she shouldn’t have and Liam as always is happy to help and steps up to be her pretend boyfriend for her visit home, her heart is changing the way she looks to the future.
This is a moving and beautiful story filled with emotion and so much love as Henri and Liam get to know each other opening up to each other like they have to no one else but Henri has worries and Liam has such tragedies from his past that their future together and the love and happiness they so deserve could fall apart. I was cheering them on so much and there were lots of tears from me in this one as Rachel Johns has dug deep into their emotions and has given her readers another story that is not to be missed, I loved this one, another for the keeper shelf and a great Christmas story, fingers crossed we can re-visit Bunyip Bay again one day. I do highly recommend this one, it is a beautiful romance.
My thanks to Harlequin AU for my copy to read and review and Netgalley as well.
November 6, 2021
Thank you to Harper Collins for sending me this book to review.
First of all , thank you Rachael for writing such a great book. This is the first one I have read and definately wont be the last. I have bought another 5 !.
You are a fantastic storyteller who had me at every page. I have lived in two country towns just like Bunyip Bay so I just absolutely loved it. Your writing was exceptional. I have to say the hot guy on the front also grabbed my attention.
The reasons I liked it so much are
1) Down to earth characters
2) The romantic suspense between Liam and Henri
3) Mystery of Liams background
4) Loved the aussie language.
5) Had many laugh out loud moments.
6) The characters were so relatable.
I highly recommend this book to anyone.
First of all , thank you Rachael for writing such a great book. This is the first one I have read and definately wont be the last. I have bought another 5 !.
You are a fantastic storyteller who had me at every page. I have lived in two country towns just like Bunyip Bay so I just absolutely loved it. Your writing was exceptional. I have to say the hot guy on the front also grabbed my attention.
The reasons I liked it so much are
1) Down to earth characters
2) The romantic suspense between Liam and Henri
3) Mystery of Liams background
4) Loved the aussie language.
5) Had many laugh out loud moments.
6) The characters were so relatable.
I highly recommend this book to anyone.
Read
November 3, 2021My favourite Rachael Johns novel yet! Loved the ag pilot plotline for Henrietta, the mysterious publican Liam and the fishbowl small-town antics, with familiar characters coming in from the previous 'outback' books. I'm forever recommending Rachael's novels to fellow bookworms and this one has a bit of everything to please her fans, old and new.
December 28, 2021
I loved this authentic, character-driven read!
Book #5 in the series was a long-time coming but so worth the wait! 'Outback Secrets' is a story full of small-town drama, interesting and dysfunctional families, as well as learning to deal with loss and love. As the title suggests keeping secrets is a central concept, so too is facing fears and life's challenges.
Rachael Johns is a fantastic Aussie author, and I can highly recommend her novels (despite this not being my usual genre). I love how the characters develop and how they seem so down-to-earth. The Australian settings, language and humour, round off a remarkable story.
Thanks to Harlequin Australia for my copy (I enjoyed it so much I bought one as a gift), five stars from me!
Book #5 in the series was a long-time coming but so worth the wait! 'Outback Secrets' is a story full of small-town drama, interesting and dysfunctional families, as well as learning to deal with loss and love. As the title suggests keeping secrets is a central concept, so too is facing fears and life's challenges.
Rachael Johns is a fantastic Aussie author, and I can highly recommend her novels (despite this not being my usual genre). I love how the characters develop and how they seem so down-to-earth. The Australian settings, language and humour, round off a remarkable story.
Thanks to Harlequin Australia for my copy (I enjoyed it so much I bought one as a gift), five stars from me!
October 31, 2021
I’m delighted to finally return to Bunyip Bay with Rachael Johns! Outback Secrets is her fifth rural romance set in the Western Australian community, and pairs publican Liam Castle, with agricultural aviator, Henrietta ‘Henri’ Forward.
Liam has been The Palace publican in Bunyip Bay for a decade, having arrived from Colorado in the wake of a tragedy. Though he’s privy to the many secrets of the community, no-one can claim to know his. When Henri, spending Christmas at the family farm, confides in him the need for a fake beau to distract her mother from nagging her to stay and settle down, Liam surprises both Henri and himself by agreeing to the plan.
Unsurprisingly, though delightfully so, real feelings quickly develop between Liam and Henri. Johns is adept at establishing chemistry between two characters and then deepening the relationship in a believable way as they learn more about one another. Liam and Henri complement each other well and their romance is fun and heartwarming.
It’s refreshing to have a heroine in a romance who actually isn’t all that interested in the traditional ‘happy ever after’ that leads to marriage and babies. A confident, independent woman, Henri loves her job as a pilot and I liked her passion for her chosen career.
Liam, who has played a minor background role in previous Bunyip Bay novels, is an appealing romantic hero, thoughtful, discrete and generous. The tragedy in his backstory is an unexpected element that introduces some sensitive subjects to the novel, including trauma, PTSD, grief, and suicide.
I was surprised to realise it’s been five years since the last Bunyip Bay book was published as the community and its characters all still feel very familiar. Though Outback Secrets can be read as a stand-alone, it’s a joy catch up with the lives of the couples who have featured in earlier novels including Faith and Monty (Outback Dreams), Ruby and Drew (Outback Blaze), Adam and Stella (Outback Ghost), and Frankie and Logan (Outback Sisters).
Outback Secrets is another engaging and charming story of romance, family and community, and I hope to visit Bunyip Bay again soon.
Liam has been The Palace publican in Bunyip Bay for a decade, having arrived from Colorado in the wake of a tragedy. Though he’s privy to the many secrets of the community, no-one can claim to know his. When Henri, spending Christmas at the family farm, confides in him the need for a fake beau to distract her mother from nagging her to stay and settle down, Liam surprises both Henri and himself by agreeing to the plan.
Unsurprisingly, though delightfully so, real feelings quickly develop between Liam and Henri. Johns is adept at establishing chemistry between two characters and then deepening the relationship in a believable way as they learn more about one another. Liam and Henri complement each other well and their romance is fun and heartwarming.
It’s refreshing to have a heroine in a romance who actually isn’t all that interested in the traditional ‘happy ever after’ that leads to marriage and babies. A confident, independent woman, Henri loves her job as a pilot and I liked her passion for her chosen career.
Liam, who has played a minor background role in previous Bunyip Bay novels, is an appealing romantic hero, thoughtful, discrete and generous. The tragedy in his backstory is an unexpected element that introduces some sensitive subjects to the novel, including trauma, PTSD, grief, and suicide.
I was surprised to realise it’s been five years since the last Bunyip Bay book was published as the community and its characters all still feel very familiar. Though Outback Secrets can be read as a stand-alone, it’s a joy catch up with the lives of the couples who have featured in earlier novels including Faith and Monty (Outback Dreams), Ruby and Drew (Outback Blaze), Adam and Stella (Outback Ghost), and Frankie and Logan (Outback Sisters).
Outback Secrets is another engaging and charming story of romance, family and community, and I hope to visit Bunyip Bay again soon.
November 8, 2021
*https://mrsbbookreviews.wordpress.com
‘Secrets were practically illegal in small towns, therefore everyone wanted to know the details.’
Australian rural romance ace Rachael Johns returns to her endearing fictional town creation of Bunyip Bay for the fifth installment of her popular country town series. Matters of the heart, untold truths, tragedy, trauma and the past all come into play in Outback Secrets, the captivating new novel from one of our nation’s most loved writers.
In her latest rural romance novel, Rachael Johns has placed publican Liam Castle in the title role. As the owner of the local pub in Bunyip Bay, Liam has witnessed many big events during his time, which range from environmental disasters to marriages, deaths and family events. Liam is the town’s informal counsellor, but Liam’s has his own dark secrets and tragic past, which he has not revealed to his friends. When Henri, a devoted agricultural pilot lands in Liam’s home town, which also happens to be Henri’s old home, an interesting turn of events occurs. Henri knows that she is not cut out for a life of love, marriage and babies in Bunyip Bay, as much as her family would love to see Henri settle down. So, Henri devises a plan to get her family off her back – she is going to fake a relationship with local pub owner Liam. The plan seems foolproof, until Henri and Liam begin to develop real feelings for one another, but can these two lost souls overcome their individual issues to find happiness together?
A new Rachael Johns book is always a highlight of the reading year and Outback Secrets has been high up on my list of most anticipated reads of 2021. I’m pleased to say it was a fabulous return to Bunyip Bay, thanks to Outback Secrets. This latest rural romance treat from Australian fiction powerhouse Rachael Johns represents the fifth issue in this very appealing series. I do hope there are more stories to come in future from Rachael Johns and her Bunyip Bay crew!
I do love a good pretend romance thread and this one features a whopping one! I think agricultural pilot Henri was matched perfectly to the town publican Liam. I loved the way these two bounced off one another and their fake relationship plan was brilliant. I had a quite a chuckle at the antics of this twosome, they were fabulous together. I also enjoyed following their eventual pathway to love, it certainly made my heart beat fast. Johns does the contemporary romance genre proud with the love story featured in Outback Secrets. We are issued with quite a narrative treat in terms of the flirty behaviour, the personal baggage, secrets, the resistance, the heat and the genuine connection between the leads of this great new tale from Rachael Johns.
It was fabulous to see such a self-sufficient, strong, determined and passionate heroine at the head of this tale. I really clicked with Henri and I sympathised with her feelings, along with the grief she was given to settle down by her family. Henri’s career was an excellent choice by the author and I found myself really interested in Henri’s responsibilities as an agricultural pilot, it is a profession that is definitely new to me. In Liam, the romantic hero of the tale, we are presented with a publican that everyone seems to lean on. I appreciated Liam’s honestly, self-worth, understanding and respectable nature. Johns takes Liam on quite an intriguing pathway in terms of his past and personal secrets he holds close to his chest. This aspect of the tale ensured that I stayed completely glued to Outback Secrets for the duration.
As I have followed this series from the start, I loved the opportunity to return to this cracking Aussie location base thanks to Outback Secrets. I am confident that fans of this series will be very satisfied by this latest issue in the Bunyip Bay journey. However, if you are just starting out with this series and rural romance in general, Outback Secrets is a most suitable story to begin your journey with the crowd from Bunyip Bay. Johns offers plenty of generous and clear descriptions of this spectacular location, so it is easy to feel like a part of the Bunyip Bay community while you are indulging in this rural romance delight from Rachael Johns
*I wish to thank Harlequin Australia for providing me with a free copy of this book for review purposes.
Outback Secrets is book #99 of the 2021 Australian Women Writers Challenge
‘Secrets were practically illegal in small towns, therefore everyone wanted to know the details.’
Australian rural romance ace Rachael Johns returns to her endearing fictional town creation of Bunyip Bay for the fifth installment of her popular country town series. Matters of the heart, untold truths, tragedy, trauma and the past all come into play in Outback Secrets, the captivating new novel from one of our nation’s most loved writers.
In her latest rural romance novel, Rachael Johns has placed publican Liam Castle in the title role. As the owner of the local pub in Bunyip Bay, Liam has witnessed many big events during his time, which range from environmental disasters to marriages, deaths and family events. Liam is the town’s informal counsellor, but Liam’s has his own dark secrets and tragic past, which he has not revealed to his friends. When Henri, a devoted agricultural pilot lands in Liam’s home town, which also happens to be Henri’s old home, an interesting turn of events occurs. Henri knows that she is not cut out for a life of love, marriage and babies in Bunyip Bay, as much as her family would love to see Henri settle down. So, Henri devises a plan to get her family off her back – she is going to fake a relationship with local pub owner Liam. The plan seems foolproof, until Henri and Liam begin to develop real feelings for one another, but can these two lost souls overcome their individual issues to find happiness together?
A new Rachael Johns book is always a highlight of the reading year and Outback Secrets has been high up on my list of most anticipated reads of 2021. I’m pleased to say it was a fabulous return to Bunyip Bay, thanks to Outback Secrets. This latest rural romance treat from Australian fiction powerhouse Rachael Johns represents the fifth issue in this very appealing series. I do hope there are more stories to come in future from Rachael Johns and her Bunyip Bay crew!
I do love a good pretend romance thread and this one features a whopping one! I think agricultural pilot Henri was matched perfectly to the town publican Liam. I loved the way these two bounced off one another and their fake relationship plan was brilliant. I had a quite a chuckle at the antics of this twosome, they were fabulous together. I also enjoyed following their eventual pathway to love, it certainly made my heart beat fast. Johns does the contemporary romance genre proud with the love story featured in Outback Secrets. We are issued with quite a narrative treat in terms of the flirty behaviour, the personal baggage, secrets, the resistance, the heat and the genuine connection between the leads of this great new tale from Rachael Johns.
It was fabulous to see such a self-sufficient, strong, determined and passionate heroine at the head of this tale. I really clicked with Henri and I sympathised with her feelings, along with the grief she was given to settle down by her family. Henri’s career was an excellent choice by the author and I found myself really interested in Henri’s responsibilities as an agricultural pilot, it is a profession that is definitely new to me. In Liam, the romantic hero of the tale, we are presented with a publican that everyone seems to lean on. I appreciated Liam’s honestly, self-worth, understanding and respectable nature. Johns takes Liam on quite an intriguing pathway in terms of his past and personal secrets he holds close to his chest. This aspect of the tale ensured that I stayed completely glued to Outback Secrets for the duration.
As I have followed this series from the start, I loved the opportunity to return to this cracking Aussie location base thanks to Outback Secrets. I am confident that fans of this series will be very satisfied by this latest issue in the Bunyip Bay journey. However, if you are just starting out with this series and rural romance in general, Outback Secrets is a most suitable story to begin your journey with the crowd from Bunyip Bay. Johns offers plenty of generous and clear descriptions of this spectacular location, so it is easy to feel like a part of the Bunyip Bay community while you are indulging in this rural romance delight from Rachael Johns
*I wish to thank Harlequin Australia for providing me with a free copy of this book for review purposes.
Outback Secrets is book #99 of the 2021 Australian Women Writers Challenge
October 23, 2021
Ahh … Rachael … you had us with your take on the good ol’ cuppa ….
‘Tilley all but collapsed into a seat next to Henri and sighed when her mum poured the tea and placed a china cup in front of her. ‘Ah, there’s just something about tea that soothes the soul,’ she said as she lifted the cup to take a sip.’
Along with a soothing cuppa there is much else to be praised for Outback Secrets. It is the fifth book in the Bunyip Bay series by Aussie author Rachael Johns - I have not read the others and had no problem easily reading this as a standalone. Bunyip Bay (fictional) on the west coast of Australia is certainly a place I would want to visit as Rachael made it sound picturesque and the town itself full of interesting characters.
‘She stood in the doorway frozen, feeling like she was lingering between two worlds and she didn’t want to be in either of them.’
I really enjoyed this book. Rachael’s books are like a big cosy blanket that allows you to have all the feels by getting lost in a great story. What she does best is capture the heart of outback Australia with her down to earth writing style and characters that are engaging and relatable. On this occasion the two leads, Henri and Liam, have fabulous character arcs with the back story that each of them bring, really providing that extra layer of depth and engagement. The cast of secondary characters are fabulous with a bit shout out to Rex on his bar stool!
‘… life isn’t a Danielle Steel novel. It just doesn’t work that way for everyone, and I don’t want to sacrifice who I am to get it.’
Outback Secrets takes you into small town living with its family dramas and some hot romance. Yet, kudos to Rachael for really bringing her ‘A’ game to this story with the inclusion of themes such as family pressures, bereavement, the problem of keeping secrets and learning to face life’s challenges. This book is a definite read for all of Rachael’s many fans and indeed anyone who needs a breath of fresh outback air and is looking for a romantic getaway to brilliant Bunyip Bay!
‘Next year she’d make sure she was as far away as possible. Timbuktu was looking good.’
This review is based on a complimentary copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. The quoted material may have changed in the final release.
‘Tilley all but collapsed into a seat next to Henri and sighed when her mum poured the tea and placed a china cup in front of her. ‘Ah, there’s just something about tea that soothes the soul,’ she said as she lifted the cup to take a sip.’
Along with a soothing cuppa there is much else to be praised for Outback Secrets. It is the fifth book in the Bunyip Bay series by Aussie author Rachael Johns - I have not read the others and had no problem easily reading this as a standalone. Bunyip Bay (fictional) on the west coast of Australia is certainly a place I would want to visit as Rachael made it sound picturesque and the town itself full of interesting characters.
‘She stood in the doorway frozen, feeling like she was lingering between two worlds and she didn’t want to be in either of them.’
I really enjoyed this book. Rachael’s books are like a big cosy blanket that allows you to have all the feels by getting lost in a great story. What she does best is capture the heart of outback Australia with her down to earth writing style and characters that are engaging and relatable. On this occasion the two leads, Henri and Liam, have fabulous character arcs with the back story that each of them bring, really providing that extra layer of depth and engagement. The cast of secondary characters are fabulous with a bit shout out to Rex on his bar stool!
‘… life isn’t a Danielle Steel novel. It just doesn’t work that way for everyone, and I don’t want to sacrifice who I am to get it.’
Outback Secrets takes you into small town living with its family dramas and some hot romance. Yet, kudos to Rachael for really bringing her ‘A’ game to this story with the inclusion of themes such as family pressures, bereavement, the problem of keeping secrets and learning to face life’s challenges. This book is a definite read for all of Rachael’s many fans and indeed anyone who needs a breath of fresh outback air and is looking for a romantic getaway to brilliant Bunyip Bay!
‘Next year she’d make sure she was as far away as possible. Timbuktu was looking good.’
This review is based on a complimentary copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. The quoted material may have changed in the final release.
October 21, 2021
Being back in Bunyip Bay was like arriving home. All the characters from previous books make an appearance and plus we get to know Henri and Liam. Loved them and loved the book, simply delightful reading
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October 1, 2021Loved it!
Last night I finished reading Outback Secrets by Rachael Johns - releasing October 27. Typically with a Rachael Johns book, I say “one more chapter,” “one more chapter” and this was no exception! I became a fan of Rachael’s life lit first, and eventually started reading her romance books- I don’t read a lot of MF romance! But the storylines are always great and her characters are awesome, too! In this one, I became an instant fan of Liam and thought Henri had a lot of spunk. A few chapters in and I was definitely wishing them together! Chemistry! Fun! Returning to Bunyip Bay was an adventure! This book stands alone, but there are others set in Bunyip Bay. If you’ve read them, you’ll see some familiar characters and places. If you haven’t, it won’t matter at all. Another great book by Rachael Johns! Thanks to NetGallley and Harper Collins for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Last night I finished reading Outback Secrets by Rachael Johns - releasing October 27. Typically with a Rachael Johns book, I say “one more chapter,” “one more chapter” and this was no exception! I became a fan of Rachael’s life lit first, and eventually started reading her romance books- I don’t read a lot of MF romance! But the storylines are always great and her characters are awesome, too! In this one, I became an instant fan of Liam and thought Henri had a lot of spunk. A few chapters in and I was definitely wishing them together! Chemistry! Fun! Returning to Bunyip Bay was an adventure! This book stands alone, but there are others set in Bunyip Bay. If you’ve read them, you’ll see some familiar characters and places. If you haven’t, it won’t matter at all. Another great book by Rachael Johns! Thanks to NetGallley and Harper Collins for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
October 27, 2021
I happily escaped into the picturesque (fictional) Australian coastal town of Bunyip Bay for this fantastic romance.
Outback Secrets is number 5 in the Bunyip Bay series, though this was my first book of the series. It can easily be read as a stand-alone, though there’s lots of mentions of the townsfolk I’m sure have featured in the earlier books. I enjoyed Outback Secrets so much, I’m interested to go back & start from the beginning now!
Outback Secrets is a fake dating story with interesting & complex characters and lots of small town drama.
When ag-pilot Henri returns to her hometown before Christmas & finds her single status being the topic of conversation amongst her coupled friends & eager mother, she turns to the handsome but mysterious local Publican, Liam to help fool them into thinking she’s found a new romance. Their developing friendship quickly becomes a hot romance but secrets and a painful past may threaten to keep them apart.
This book delivers on all the things that readers will love and I’m beginning to suspect that’s the case for all of Rachael Johns’s books!
* a down-to-earth writing style with a good dash of humour,
* stories filled with emotion but not over-played drama,
* interesting, likeable and well-crafted characters,
* dialogue that reminds you of home, friends and family,
* and settings that make you want to explore more of this Earth.
This is a fabulous, fun escapist read & I intend to revisit Bunyip Bay again soon!
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an e-copy of this book.
Outback Secrets is number 5 in the Bunyip Bay series, though this was my first book of the series. It can easily be read as a stand-alone, though there’s lots of mentions of the townsfolk I’m sure have featured in the earlier books. I enjoyed Outback Secrets so much, I’m interested to go back & start from the beginning now!
Outback Secrets is a fake dating story with interesting & complex characters and lots of small town drama.
When ag-pilot Henri returns to her hometown before Christmas & finds her single status being the topic of conversation amongst her coupled friends & eager mother, she turns to the handsome but mysterious local Publican, Liam to help fool them into thinking she’s found a new romance. Their developing friendship quickly becomes a hot romance but secrets and a painful past may threaten to keep them apart.
This book delivers on all the things that readers will love and I’m beginning to suspect that’s the case for all of Rachael Johns’s books!
* a down-to-earth writing style with a good dash of humour,
* stories filled with emotion but not over-played drama,
* interesting, likeable and well-crafted characters,
* dialogue that reminds you of home, friends and family,
* and settings that make you want to explore more of this Earth.
This is a fabulous, fun escapist read & I intend to revisit Bunyip Bay again soon!
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an e-copy of this book.
December 3, 2022
Outback Secrets by Aussie author Rachael Johns is the fifth book in the Bunyip Bay series. This has been a fabulous series and one I know many other readers have enjoyed including myself.
Rachael has a real talent for writing about family drama, secrets, love, loss, relationships and let’s not forget small-town communities and I just love reading her books. Highly recommended. With thanks to Netgalley and the publishers for my digital copy to read and review.
Rachael has a real talent for writing about family drama, secrets, love, loss, relationships and let’s not forget small-town communities and I just love reading her books. Highly recommended. With thanks to Netgalley and the publishers for my digital copy to read and review.
October 9, 2021
When Henrietta Ford visits her hometown after having an accident during her work as a pilot, she devises a plan to get her mum and her friends off her back about settling down and marrying. The cute and single local publican Liam Castle seems like the perfect man for the job.
Ah I love a good country town romance! This was such a sweet story and the characters were fantastic. I now realise this is the 5th book by Rachel Johns set here in Bunyip Bay but honestly I hadn’t even heard of Rachel Johns before reading this one. I love the town setting and it was beautiful seeing how this romance evolved. Also it’s set at Christmas time so what’s not to love! Henrietta is a well-written strong female lead showing that there is way more to a woman than marrying at the earliest convenience. I really loved the themes from this book that true love can easily overcome an obstacle such as a job that requires you to move around. I also loved the story progression for Liam seeing him overcome his family trauma and finally start to realise that he can learn to be happy as well. It did make me sad too to think that he’d been living without dealing with his grief all this time. I am so glad I was able to read this via Netgalley and really recommend it to others to read too.
Ah I love a good country town romance! This was such a sweet story and the characters were fantastic. I now realise this is the 5th book by Rachel Johns set here in Bunyip Bay but honestly I hadn’t even heard of Rachel Johns before reading this one. I love the town setting and it was beautiful seeing how this romance evolved. Also it’s set at Christmas time so what’s not to love! Henrietta is a well-written strong female lead showing that there is way more to a woman than marrying at the earliest convenience. I really loved the themes from this book that true love can easily overcome an obstacle such as a job that requires you to move around. I also loved the story progression for Liam seeing him overcome his family trauma and finally start to realise that he can learn to be happy as well. It did make me sad too to think that he’d been living without dealing with his grief all this time. I am so glad I was able to read this via Netgalley and really recommend it to others to read too.
November 7, 2021
Some eleventy-billion years ago, I was in hospital post lumbar puncture. I was reading The Girl in the Steel Capped Boots by Loretta Hill - and got chatting with one of the nurses. She was telling me about a book she was currently reading, Jilted, by a debut author called Rachael Johns. She raved about it so much, I went out and bought a copy. I've bought every single one of Rachael's books since that day - often without even reading the blurb. From her early days in rural romance, to the category romances, to the life lit books that are more common today. I've read - and loved - them all.
So, I guess that's my long winded way of saying this review is unashamedly biased.
Outback Secrets takes us back to Bunyip Bay - our stars this time around agricultural pilot Henri Forward and publican Liam Castle. Christmas is approaching - one of the few times of year Henri returns home, and a time of year that Liam dreads.
And here is the awesomest thing about this book. It is an Australian Christmas Rural Romance! How amazing is that? I love romance novels, and lets face it - most are by international authors with snow and romantic fireplaces, all the things associated with a winter Christmas. Australian Christmases are different - they're in summer, filled with beaches and Ugly Christmas Rashies instead of Ugly Christmas Sweaters. And, in her usual brilliant style, Rachael Johns brings this all to life. I really can't explain it, but there's just something so uniquely Aussie about her rural romances, and I just love it to bits. I could read these all day long. (Oh wait, I just did, opps!)
Even though it's part of the Bunyip Bay series it functions as a standalone novel. However, I did wish I'd done a re-read of the previous books to get reaquainted with the series (plus, Adam and Stella are the most gorgeous romance novel couple in like, forever so any excuse to revisit that is a good one) as past characters all show up again.
It's just all kinds of wonderful. *sigh*
So, I guess that's my long winded way of saying this review is unashamedly biased.
Outback Secrets takes us back to Bunyip Bay - our stars this time around agricultural pilot Henri Forward and publican Liam Castle. Christmas is approaching - one of the few times of year Henri returns home, and a time of year that Liam dreads.
And here is the awesomest thing about this book. It is an Australian Christmas Rural Romance! How amazing is that? I love romance novels, and lets face it - most are by international authors with snow and romantic fireplaces, all the things associated with a winter Christmas. Australian Christmases are different - they're in summer, filled with beaches and Ugly Christmas Rashies instead of Ugly Christmas Sweaters. And, in her usual brilliant style, Rachael Johns brings this all to life. I really can't explain it, but there's just something so uniquely Aussie about her rural romances, and I just love it to bits. I could read these all day long. (Oh wait, I just did, opps!)
Even though it's part of the Bunyip Bay series it functions as a standalone novel. However, I did wish I'd done a re-read of the previous books to get reaquainted with the series (plus, Adam and Stella are the most gorgeous romance novel couple in like, forever so any excuse to revisit that is a good one) as past characters all show up again.
It's just all kinds of wonderful. *sigh*
October 16, 2021
Thank you Harlequin and Rachael for sending us a copy to read and review.
A rural romance that will make your heart beat fast and ticks all the right boxes for the genre.
Pilot Henrietta Forward has just escaped a messy emergency landing and has ending up in her home town of Bunyip Bay earlier than expected for a well earned break.
Her mother wants her settled down and away from danger and as Henri starts to question everything she doesn’t need the added pressure from family.
Liam Castle has made the country pub his home and while serving behind the bar he hears everyone’s problems and issues all the time but what no one knows is he’s keeping a secret of his own.
Then Henri has a lightbulb moment, that if everyone in town thinks her and Liam are a couple, that will keep gossip and rumours at bay.
Liam agrees to this but soon they both start to feel real feelings for each other.
With secrets from both hidden under the covers, will a new love last?
Outback Secrets is book five in the Bunyip Bay series and it’s been a wonderful return trip to the town and visit a memorable cast from past stories.
Rachael continues to glow as one of this country’s leading established popular writers with a gem of a book that’s endearing, fun and an addictive breath of fresh air.
A highly appealing and entertaining tale that’s surely to capture hearts across the nation.
Containing all the right elements to please, a touching but not so smooth romance, relatable characters, humorous moments all wrapped up in small town community spirit.
Rachael knows what the reader wants even if they don’t know it themselves.
What we do know is that clearly Rachael has fun when writing and has a way with words.
A rural romance that will make your heart beat fast and ticks all the right boxes for the genre.
Pilot Henrietta Forward has just escaped a messy emergency landing and has ending up in her home town of Bunyip Bay earlier than expected for a well earned break.
Her mother wants her settled down and away from danger and as Henri starts to question everything she doesn’t need the added pressure from family.
Liam Castle has made the country pub his home and while serving behind the bar he hears everyone’s problems and issues all the time but what no one knows is he’s keeping a secret of his own.
Then Henri has a lightbulb moment, that if everyone in town thinks her and Liam are a couple, that will keep gossip and rumours at bay.
Liam agrees to this but soon they both start to feel real feelings for each other.
With secrets from both hidden under the covers, will a new love last?
Outback Secrets is book five in the Bunyip Bay series and it’s been a wonderful return trip to the town and visit a memorable cast from past stories.
Rachael continues to glow as one of this country’s leading established popular writers with a gem of a book that’s endearing, fun and an addictive breath of fresh air.
A highly appealing and entertaining tale that’s surely to capture hearts across the nation.
Containing all the right elements to please, a touching but not so smooth romance, relatable characters, humorous moments all wrapped up in small town community spirit.
Rachael knows what the reader wants even if they don’t know it themselves.
What we do know is that clearly Rachael has fun when writing and has a way with words.
October 15, 2021
When I started reading this book I didn't think I was going to enjoy it as much as the others in the series. I've given every one of them 5 stars, but I felt this one started a little different to the others. But it ended just the same - me turning the last page, a tear or two in my eye (and a few others shed a few chapters prior) and me wondering if this or Outback Ghost is my favourite? Yet to be decided. But yes, it's another five stars from me.
Great characters, great setting, and well done for keeping the town both familiar and fresh at the same time.
Rachael - I won't complain if you have ideas for another one in the series. There's a few possibilities, after all.
#OutbackSecrets #NetGalley
Great characters, great setting, and well done for keeping the town both familiar and fresh at the same time.
Rachael - I won't complain if you have ideas for another one in the series. There's a few possibilities, after all.
#OutbackSecrets #NetGalley
September 18, 2021
Thank you to NetGalley and Harlequin Australia for the opportunity to review this book. Please note it will be available to purchase from October 27, 2021.
I loved this book, the storyline was completely down to earth and relatable with it being set in a small Australian country town. The characters are engaging from the start and continue to develop through the story. The backstory to the characters helps to build the overall story and gives them an extra layer of complexity while keeping them very much believable and relatable.
I loved this book, the storyline was completely down to earth and relatable with it being set in a small Australian country town. The characters are engaging from the start and continue to develop through the story. The backstory to the characters helps to build the overall story and gives them an extra layer of complexity while keeping them very much believable and relatable.
January 25, 2025
Outback Secrets is #5 in the Bunyip Bay series by Australian author, Rachael Johns. Publican Liam Castle, and local Bunyip Bay resident Henrietta Foward have a fake-dating arrangement to keep Henri's mother and nosy neighbours from interfering in her love life. As an agricultural pilot, Henri has no time for romance however, the more time Henri spends with Liam, the more she realises that she might just be falling in love with him. I really enjoyed this Rural Romance and look forward to reading more in the series. Thanks to NetGalley for my ARC.
December 15, 2021
Yup Rachael has done it again and i think this is definitely my favourite of the Outback Bunyip Bay series. Brilliant.
November 4, 2021
While I don't read many rural romances, I do have a penchant for them. Outback Ghost (book 3 of Bunyip Bay) was my one of my first reads of this genre and I enjoyed it very much that I bought Outback Dreams (book 1). This is one of the rare times that I have read out of order but you know, I didn't know any better back then. The only one in the series I skipped is book 4 because it's a trope I absolutely cannot stand but I can't help myself with this most recent instalment; I had to get back to Bunyip Bay.
Fans of the series will be familiar with Liam Castle, the enigmatic pub owner, and his story has been a long time coming! Of course, earlier on, I'd have put him with another Bunyip Bay character but it's not to be and while I'm a little bit put out, Henrietta Forward easily becomes a new favourite character.
A lot of the times, I nit-picked certain details that aren't quite pertinent to the story but it frustrates me a lot of the time that author mentioned it in passing but didn't follow through. In Outback Secrets though, as soon as I thought of the question, it was resolved. My OCD-self appreciates this so very very much.
My favourite romance trope is BFF to lover but fake-dating is my second and I just love how Rachael Johns weaved that through Outback Secrets; and pssst, that's not the only secret in town! Oh, it is also set around Christmas time so if you're after a Christmas feel good read, pick this one!
My thanks to Harlequin Australia for ecopy of book via NetGalley in exchange of my honest thoughts
Fans of the series will be familiar with Liam Castle, the enigmatic pub owner, and his story has been a long time coming! Of course, earlier on, I'd have put him with another Bunyip Bay character but it's not to be and while I'm a little bit put out, Henrietta Forward easily becomes a new favourite character.
A lot of the times, I nit-picked certain details that aren't quite pertinent to the story but it frustrates me a lot of the time that author mentioned it in passing but didn't follow through. In Outback Secrets though, as soon as I thought of the question, it was resolved. My OCD-self appreciates this so very very much.
My favourite romance trope is BFF to lover but fake-dating is my second and I just love how Rachael Johns weaved that through Outback Secrets; and pssst, that's not the only secret in town! Oh, it is also set around Christmas time so if you're after a Christmas feel good read, pick this one!
My thanks to Harlequin Australia for ecopy of book via NetGalley in exchange of my honest thoughts
November 21, 2021
Outback Secrets - Rachael Johns
Outback Secrets is a captivating romance that swept me away in an instant to the beautiful beachside town of Bunyip Bay.
Henrietta Forward loves her job. She is an agricultural pilot who travels to different places to carry out her work. I found her work really interesting to read about. When an accident happens in the air, Henri finds it difficult to get back in a plane again. To rest and try to regain her confidence, Henri returns to her hometown of Bunyip Bay. She returns to family, friends and others' expectations of her. Henri soon finds a way to stop the people of the town questioning her love life. She enlists sexy, smart and secretive Liam, owner of the local pub, to be her pretend boyfriend.
Liam and Henri's friendship and developing romance is exciting, fun and heartwrenching. Their banter is hilarious and together they are sexy, sweet and playful. Liam is a good looking, kind and thoughtful man who will no doubt have every reader wishing they had a Liam in their lives. Rachael Johns' characters are lovable and the level of depth of each character is perfect. I felt like I really knew the town and the main characters in no time. Bunyip Bay has a great deal of interesting characters.
When I think romance novel, I want to be swept off my feet. Rachael Johns certainly did this through the strong emotional connection between the characters and their personal stories. Outback Secrets is an exploration of the heart, delving into matters of grief, loss, heartache, friendship, love, maternal bond and family.
I would highly recommend Outback Secrets for lovers of romance novels. This is by far, one of the best romances of the year. I am glad this was the first Rachael Johns' novel I picked up. I am looking forward to reading more of her novels.
★★★★★
Thank you @harlequinaus and @rachaeljohnsauthor for #gifting me a copy of Outback Secrets. @romanceanz
#outbacksecrets #rachaeljohns #romanceanz #bunyipbay #beach #romance #bookreview #bookreviewer #bookrecommendations #bookstagram #chapterichi
Outback Secrets is a captivating romance that swept me away in an instant to the beautiful beachside town of Bunyip Bay.
Henrietta Forward loves her job. She is an agricultural pilot who travels to different places to carry out her work. I found her work really interesting to read about. When an accident happens in the air, Henri finds it difficult to get back in a plane again. To rest and try to regain her confidence, Henri returns to her hometown of Bunyip Bay. She returns to family, friends and others' expectations of her. Henri soon finds a way to stop the people of the town questioning her love life. She enlists sexy, smart and secretive Liam, owner of the local pub, to be her pretend boyfriend.
Liam and Henri's friendship and developing romance is exciting, fun and heartwrenching. Their banter is hilarious and together they are sexy, sweet and playful. Liam is a good looking, kind and thoughtful man who will no doubt have every reader wishing they had a Liam in their lives. Rachael Johns' characters are lovable and the level of depth of each character is perfect. I felt like I really knew the town and the main characters in no time. Bunyip Bay has a great deal of interesting characters.
When I think romance novel, I want to be swept off my feet. Rachael Johns certainly did this through the strong emotional connection between the characters and their personal stories. Outback Secrets is an exploration of the heart, delving into matters of grief, loss, heartache, friendship, love, maternal bond and family.
I would highly recommend Outback Secrets for lovers of romance novels. This is by far, one of the best romances of the year. I am glad this was the first Rachael Johns' novel I picked up. I am looking forward to reading more of her novels.
★★★★★
Thank you @harlequinaus and @rachaeljohnsauthor for #gifting me a copy of Outback Secrets. @romanceanz
#outbacksecrets #rachaeljohns #romanceanz #bunyipbay #beach #romance #bookreview #bookreviewer #bookrecommendations #bookstagram #chapterichi
September 22, 2021
Thanks to Harlequin and NetGalley for the advance copy of Outback Secrets which will be due out 27 October 21.
Once again Rachael Johns has excelled with Outback Secrets which is #5 in the Bunyip Bay series. While it is part of a series it also reads well as a stand alone book.
Liam Castle is publican of Bunyip Bay's local pub The Palace. He's not a fan of celebrating Christmas and with good reason so he keeps to himself but is also the ear that hears all that is going on with the people of Bunyip Bay. He’s not interested in a relationship - in fact it's the last thing on his mind.
Meanwhile Henrietta Forward avoids coming home except for Christmas. She's happy being free and not tied to anything except her job and her Kombi - Cecil - but her family have other ideas.
To avoid the constant harassment from her family about settling down, Henri comes up with the hairbrained scheme of a fake relationship with Liam to get them to back down. Ironically Liam goes along with it but before too long sparks are flying and the fake relationship, maybe isn’t so fake any more?
Definitely a must read for all Rachael Johns fans or in fact anyone who loves a good Australian Rural Romance.
There's definitely room for more stories based on the characters of Bunyip Bay and I can't wait to see what Rachael will offer us next.
Once again Rachael Johns has excelled with Outback Secrets which is #5 in the Bunyip Bay series. While it is part of a series it also reads well as a stand alone book.
Liam Castle is publican of Bunyip Bay's local pub The Palace. He's not a fan of celebrating Christmas and with good reason so he keeps to himself but is also the ear that hears all that is going on with the people of Bunyip Bay. He’s not interested in a relationship - in fact it's the last thing on his mind.
Meanwhile Henrietta Forward avoids coming home except for Christmas. She's happy being free and not tied to anything except her job and her Kombi - Cecil - but her family have other ideas.
To avoid the constant harassment from her family about settling down, Henri comes up with the hairbrained scheme of a fake relationship with Liam to get them to back down. Ironically Liam goes along with it but before too long sparks are flying and the fake relationship, maybe isn’t so fake any more?
Definitely a must read for all Rachael Johns fans or in fact anyone who loves a good Australian Rural Romance.
There's definitely room for more stories based on the characters of Bunyip Bay and I can't wait to see what Rachael will offer us next.
September 20, 2021
Welcome home- to me as an Aussie and welcome 'home' to those from foreign lands. This story so down to earth, authentic and real; it really does welcome all into it's heart.
Set in a small town you get all the feels with the well rounded characters (and there are a a few), the family and the environment.
Henri the bush pilot makes the annual pilgrimage home for Chrissy Hols it's sentimental and taxing for her; because her dad's gone and her mum's trying too hard to get Henri settled down - both with a husband and out of the sky.
Liam lands himself in the middle of Henri's seemingly innocent ploy to shut down her meddlesome family and the townsfolk of Bunyip Bay.
She tells someone she has a man already- Liam!
She then immediately rushes to inform him of his newly orchestrated romance!
Its a tale of family, love, loss and sharing with authentic Australian lingo, countryside and locals. This tale is wonderfully fresh and soulful and I can't wait to get my hands on more story's by Rachael Johns!
Set in a small town you get all the feels with the well rounded characters (and there are a a few), the family and the environment.
Henri the bush pilot makes the annual pilgrimage home for Chrissy Hols it's sentimental and taxing for her; because her dad's gone and her mum's trying too hard to get Henri settled down - both with a husband and out of the sky.
Liam lands himself in the middle of Henri's seemingly innocent ploy to shut down her meddlesome family and the townsfolk of Bunyip Bay.
She tells someone she has a man already- Liam!
She then immediately rushes to inform him of his newly orchestrated romance!
Its a tale of family, love, loss and sharing with authentic Australian lingo, countryside and locals. This tale is wonderfully fresh and soulful and I can't wait to get my hands on more story's by Rachael Johns!
December 4, 2021
Written in Rachael Johns’ relaxed and laid-back style, Outback Secrets quickly settled me into the Western Australian country town of Bunyip Bay, which seems like a farmer’s paradise, positioned as it is on the coast so you can enjoy a dip in the ocean or a walk on the beach after a long, hard day on the header. I loved the characters in this book, especially Henri and Liam. There is everybody from the town busybody, who seems to know everything first and is keen to share it, to Henri’s mother, who is desperate to get her daughter to settle down with one of the nice single farmers in the area. It was clear that Henri was headed for trouble as soon as she proposed Liam play her fake boyfriend, and there were certainly plenty of moments arising from that charade that showed just exactly where these two were headed, This story was engaging throughout and while it did deal with some difficult issues balanced those with others the were far less demanding. I loved it and would be thrilled to see more from Bunyip Bay.
October 15, 2021
I received this as an Arc on Netgalley.
As always, reading a Rachael Johns novel is like going home.
Outback Secrets is a beautiful story about love, secrets, family and finding the courage to let yourself love.
Liam the local publican and Henri, a Bunyip Bay local who loves her job as an Ag pilot, both have been hurt in the past.
A harebrained scheme to stop her mother meddling in her love life sets them on a path neither is quite ready for.
This, as always, drew me in from the very page.
Rachael has a wonderful way if writing that makes you feel as if you know the characters and you'd love to live in the same town.
A five star read, I can't wait to see if there's another book in the series.
As always, reading a Rachael Johns novel is like going home.
Outback Secrets is a beautiful story about love, secrets, family and finding the courage to let yourself love.
Liam the local publican and Henri, a Bunyip Bay local who loves her job as an Ag pilot, both have been hurt in the past.
A harebrained scheme to stop her mother meddling in her love life sets them on a path neither is quite ready for.
This, as always, drew me in from the very page.
Rachael has a wonderful way if writing that makes you feel as if you know the characters and you'd love to live in the same town.
A five star read, I can't wait to see if there's another book in the series.
October 28, 2021
I absolutely adored returning to Bunyip Bay and catching up with the locals, Outback Secrets is the 5th book in the series and it certainly disappoint.
There was a mix of all things good, mystery, romance, and family dramas just to name a few.
This story focuses on local publican Liam Castle who knows the secrets of everyone in Bunyip Bay and as the owner of the local pub, he's heard it all. Henrietta Forward is an ag-pilot who has returned home for the Christmas, but Henri lives for her job and chooses that over romance much to her mother’s disappointment who would love to dearly see her settle down, marry and have kids.
Liam and Henri cross paths at the pub and what happens next neither expect.
In typical Rachael Johns style, this story was gripping and had me hooked. I loved the reference to Tim Tams and Milo bringing back memories of hanging out with college friends in the late nineties.
There was a mix of all things good, mystery, romance, and family dramas just to name a few.
This story focuses on local publican Liam Castle who knows the secrets of everyone in Bunyip Bay and as the owner of the local pub, he's heard it all. Henrietta Forward is an ag-pilot who has returned home for the Christmas, but Henri lives for her job and chooses that over romance much to her mother’s disappointment who would love to dearly see her settle down, marry and have kids.
Liam and Henri cross paths at the pub and what happens next neither expect.
In typical Rachael Johns style, this story was gripping and had me hooked. I loved the reference to Tim Tams and Milo bringing back memories of hanging out with college friends in the late nineties.
November 23, 2021
Thank you Rachael for listening to your readers and writing another book for the Bunyip Bay series. I loved it from start to finish! Henri was awesome and gave me many giggles as she muddled her way through her story of being with Liam. Liam was a sport for going along with it and as their friendship grew I fell in love with both of them. They make such a cute couple. They both fought their demons and fears and found that life can be happy, fun and full of love. Thank you for another amazing book. I look forward to reading more from Bunyip Bay in the future?? 📖 ❤
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 20, 2021
I'm not sure if I've read any of the Bunyip Bay series but I'm sure to now after enjoying this one.
I love a good small town/rural romance and this one is set in the small WA coastal town of Bunyip Bay.
Henri grew up in the town and is part of a local farming family but she spends most of her time travelling the world as an Agricultural Pilot. When she has a nerve-wracking crash she returns home in the hopes she can gain her courage back to return to the thing she loves most.
Liam is the local publican who grew up in the USA but mysteriously arrived in Bunyip Bay over a decade ago and bought the pub on the spur of the moment.
Henri has never ending pressure from her family and friends about her lacking of dating life, so when she ends up spending the night in Liam's bed after a drunken night (sleeping 😂) she suddenly drags him into a fake relationship to get everyone off her back.
Of course a friendship and attraction blossums but can they get past their secret demons together.
This book hits on some traumatic events that would shake anyone up. The characters have a good depth to them and they kept me captivated throughout. I loved all the side characters, many of which I'm sure have their own Bunyip Bay love stories.
Thanks to Harlequin Mira and Netgalley.com for my complimentary eARC copy.
I love a good small town/rural romance and this one is set in the small WA coastal town of Bunyip Bay.
Henri grew up in the town and is part of a local farming family but she spends most of her time travelling the world as an Agricultural Pilot. When she has a nerve-wracking crash she returns home in the hopes she can gain her courage back to return to the thing she loves most.
Liam is the local publican who grew up in the USA but mysteriously arrived in Bunyip Bay over a decade ago and bought the pub on the spur of the moment.
Henri has never ending pressure from her family and friends about her lacking of dating life, so when she ends up spending the night in Liam's bed after a drunken night (sleeping 😂) she suddenly drags him into a fake relationship to get everyone off her back.
Of course a friendship and attraction blossums but can they get past their secret demons together.
This book hits on some traumatic events that would shake anyone up. The characters have a good depth to them and they kept me captivated throughout. I loved all the side characters, many of which I'm sure have their own Bunyip Bay love stories.
Thanks to Harlequin Mira and Netgalley.com for my complimentary eARC copy.
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January 1, 2022Fantastic. Loved it
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