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The Bellbird Bay #6
Escape to Bellbird Bay
Alison Wells has built a successful career lecturing in women's studies at a university in Perth, Australia. When her life unexpectedly falls apart, she decides to escape to the coastal town of Bellbird Bay on Queensland's Sunshine Coast.
Neil Simpson loves teaching and his position as principal at a prestigious boy's school in Brisbane. But when scandal rocks the school, and he learns his father's health is failing, he believes he has no choice but to return to Bellbird Bay, the town where he grew up.
Determined not to be a burden to her brother and his new partner, Ali is considering her options when her life and Neil's collide. Having avoided commitment all her life, Ali is unprepared for the force of her attraction to the man who is trying to come to terms with the upheaval to his own life.
At fate conspires to keep them apart, can these two build a new future together; can this small town work its magic on the two lost souls?
Neil Simpson loves teaching and his position as principal at a prestigious boy's school in Brisbane. But when scandal rocks the school, and he learns his father's health is failing, he believes he has no choice but to return to Bellbird Bay, the town where he grew up.
Determined not to be a burden to her brother and his new partner, Ali is considering her options when her life and Neil's collide. Having avoided commitment all her life, Ali is unprepared for the force of her attraction to the man who is trying to come to terms with the upheaval to his own life.
At fate conspires to keep them apart, can these two build a new future together; can this small town work its magic on the two lost souls?
240 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 11, 2023
30 people are currently reading
20 people want to read
About the author
Maggie Christensen
64 books146 followersAfter a career in education, Maggie Christensen began writing contemporary women’s fiction portraying mature women facing life-changing situations. Her travels inspire her writing, be it her frequent visits to family in Oregon, USA or her home on Queensland’s beautiful Sunshine Coast. Maggie writes of mature heroines coming to terms with changes in their lives and the heroes worthy of them.
From her native Glasgow, Scotland, Maggie was lured by the call ‘Come and teach in the sun’ to Australia,where she worked as a primary school teacher, university lecturer and in educational management. Now living with her husband of thirty years on Queensland’s Sunshine Coast, she loves walking on the deserted beach in the early mornings and having coffee by the river on weekends. Her days are spent surrounded by books, either reading or writing them – her idea of heaven!
She continues her love of books as a volunteer with her local library where she selects and delivers books to the housebound.
A member of Queensland Writer’s Centre, RWA, ALLi, and a local critique group, Maggie enjoys meeting her readers at book signings and library talks. In 2014 she self-published Band of Gold and The Sand Dollar, Book One in the Oregon Coast Series, in 2015, The Dreamcatcher, Book Two in the Oregon Coast Series and Broken Threads, and in 2016, Madeline House, book Three in the Oregon Coast Series
From her native Glasgow, Scotland, Maggie was lured by the call ‘Come and teach in the sun’ to Australia,where she worked as a primary school teacher, university lecturer and in educational management. Now living with her husband of thirty years on Queensland’s Sunshine Coast, she loves walking on the deserted beach in the early mornings and having coffee by the river on weekends. Her days are spent surrounded by books, either reading or writing them – her idea of heaven!
She continues her love of books as a volunteer with her local library where she selects and delivers books to the housebound.
A member of Queensland Writer’s Centre, RWA, ALLi, and a local critique group, Maggie enjoys meeting her readers at book signings and library talks. In 2014 she self-published Band of Gold and The Sand Dollar, Book One in the Oregon Coast Series, in 2015, The Dreamcatcher, Book Two in the Oregon Coast Series and Broken Threads, and in 2016, Madeline House, book Three in the Oregon Coast Series
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews
May 6, 2023
Alison Wells had been given leave, with the suggestion of early retirement, so she decided to join her brother Adam and his partner Libby at the little seaside town of Bellbird Bay, on Queensland's Sunshine Coast. She hoped her few months over Christmas and extending to Easter, would bring a solution for her future and she'd be able to return to Perth, continuing her career.
Neil Simpson was principal of a boy's school in Brisbane when things went wrong and he was caught up in a scandal. Taking an enforced leave, Neil and his twenty year old daughter Bronte, descended on Bellbird Bay where Neil's father ran Bay's Books, a popular and much loved bookshop which Harry had owned since Neil was a child. But Harry's health was deteriorating - he was eighty after all - and when he needed to be hospitalized, Neil, Bronte and a couple of her friends, kept the store open. When Neil met Ali, they were both surprised at the level of attraction they felt for each other. But their lives were in different states, too far apart for anything to work. Plus Ali was very anti-commitment. Would Bellbird Bay work its magic on Neil and Ali, as it had on others in the town?
Escape to Bellbird Bay is the 6th in the Bellbird Bay series by Aussie author Maggie Christensen (herself living on the beautiful Sunshine Coast of Queensland) and it was another enjoyable addition to the series. With surfing and swimming, fundraisers and many other activities, Bellbird Bay isn't short of things to do. Ms Christensen writes older people well, those who are looking for a second chance at love, as well as those who aren't. Recommended.
With thanks to the author for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
Neil Simpson was principal of a boy's school in Brisbane when things went wrong and he was caught up in a scandal. Taking an enforced leave, Neil and his twenty year old daughter Bronte, descended on Bellbird Bay where Neil's father ran Bay's Books, a popular and much loved bookshop which Harry had owned since Neil was a child. But Harry's health was deteriorating - he was eighty after all - and when he needed to be hospitalized, Neil, Bronte and a couple of her friends, kept the store open. When Neil met Ali, they were both surprised at the level of attraction they felt for each other. But their lives were in different states, too far apart for anything to work. Plus Ali was very anti-commitment. Would Bellbird Bay work its magic on Neil and Ali, as it had on others in the town?
Escape to Bellbird Bay is the 6th in the Bellbird Bay series by Aussie author Maggie Christensen (herself living on the beautiful Sunshine Coast of Queensland) and it was another enjoyable addition to the series. With surfing and swimming, fundraisers and many other activities, Bellbird Bay isn't short of things to do. Ms Christensen writes older people well, those who are looking for a second chance at love, as well as those who aren't. Recommended.
With thanks to the author for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
May 10, 2023
Another lovely and wonderful story in this series, MS Christensen writes stories that make me feel good, I love seeing the mature couples finding the love and happiness they deserve and this author does it so well, this time we meet Ali Wells and Neil Simpson, come along for a trip to Bellbird Bay.
Alli we have met before she is a lecturer in woman’s studies at Pert University, but after standing up for a student it has been suggested that Ali take early retirement and maybe some long service leave to think about her future, this sees her arrive in Bellbird Bay to visit her brother Adam and his partner Libby, to think about her future.
Neil Simpson grew up in Bellbird Bay his father Harry owns the fabulous book shop, Neil is divorced father of twenty year old Bronte and principal of a private boys college but when scandal hits the school Neil is told to take some leave while things get sorted out and a trip home at Christmas time is just what he needs but when he arrives he discovers that his father’s health is not what is was, there is a lot to think over.
Ali and Neil are both here to sort their futures out and neither of them are looking for commitment but spending time together in this town, a town that seems to have a good success rate in matching people and bringing them together is working its magic. A few hurdles to cross in this beautiful seaside town and of course with the help of some wonderful characters who have proven that love can be found not matter your age.
I do highly recommend this story and the series, Bellbird Bay is a lovely place to visit.
My thanks to the author for my copy to read and review.
Alli we have met before she is a lecturer in woman’s studies at Pert University, but after standing up for a student it has been suggested that Ali take early retirement and maybe some long service leave to think about her future, this sees her arrive in Bellbird Bay to visit her brother Adam and his partner Libby, to think about her future.
Neil Simpson grew up in Bellbird Bay his father Harry owns the fabulous book shop, Neil is divorced father of twenty year old Bronte and principal of a private boys college but when scandal hits the school Neil is told to take some leave while things get sorted out and a trip home at Christmas time is just what he needs but when he arrives he discovers that his father’s health is not what is was, there is a lot to think over.
Ali and Neil are both here to sort their futures out and neither of them are looking for commitment but spending time together in this town, a town that seems to have a good success rate in matching people and bringing them together is working its magic. A few hurdles to cross in this beautiful seaside town and of course with the help of some wonderful characters who have proven that love can be found not matter your age.
I do highly recommend this story and the series, Bellbird Bay is a lovely place to visit.
My thanks to the author for my copy to read and review.
May 12, 2023
Ali is forced to take unexpected time off and ends up in Bellbird Bay. It’s where her brother and his new girlfriend live. Soon she has a bunch of new friends. This was only supposed to be a temporary retreat but life seems to have other plans.
It’s a good story dealing with some life changes and romance. It’s book six in this series so we also see some characters from previous books.
Thanks to Rachel’s Random Resources for the early copy
It’s a good story dealing with some life changes and romance. It’s book six in this series so we also see some characters from previous books.
Thanks to Rachel’s Random Resources for the early copy
May 3, 2023
Thank you Maggie for gifting us a copy to read and review.
Bellbird Bay attracts all sorts of people and the warmth of the community and fabric of its society keep them there.
I’ve now met many of its residents and look forward to its new arrivals.
Ali Simpson is passionate about her role as lecturer in Women Studies at the University.
A place where an old boys club exists and extra ceilings hinder women.
With her course pulled from the curriculum she takes a forced break.
She ends up in the Bay to visit her brother.
Neil is back in the Bay with his daughter to visit his elderly father.
He is a dedicated Headmaster at an elite school.
A scandal involving fraud leaves him inadvertently embroiled.
Two professionals with completely different back stories are in the same place but neither are sure of what the future holds professionally or romantically.
I really enjoy my visits to Bellbird Bay and reacquainting with the cast.
I admire the freshness of each story.
The dilemma of professionals was well thought out considering the limitations of the area.
I also loved the realistic dialogue between father and daughter.
A wonderful edition to the series.
Bellbird Bay attracts all sorts of people and the warmth of the community and fabric of its society keep them there.
I’ve now met many of its residents and look forward to its new arrivals.
Ali Simpson is passionate about her role as lecturer in Women Studies at the University.
A place where an old boys club exists and extra ceilings hinder women.
With her course pulled from the curriculum she takes a forced break.
She ends up in the Bay to visit her brother.
Neil is back in the Bay with his daughter to visit his elderly father.
He is a dedicated Headmaster at an elite school.
A scandal involving fraud leaves him inadvertently embroiled.
Two professionals with completely different back stories are in the same place but neither are sure of what the future holds professionally or romantically.
I really enjoy my visits to Bellbird Bay and reacquainting with the cast.
I admire the freshness of each story.
The dilemma of professionals was well thought out considering the limitations of the area.
I also loved the realistic dialogue between father and daughter.
A wonderful edition to the series.
May 12, 2023
Ali West has spent her whole working life in academia, teaching about women’s rights. When one of her students accuses her male professor of inappropriate advances, Ali is shocked at the university’s reaction, and even more shocked when it is suggested that she might need to take some time off.
Neil Simpson has issues in his career too. He has been inadvertently implicated in a financial scandal at the prestigious boys school where he is principal. Although he has been cleared of any involvement, his reputation has been affected and he has been directed to take paid leave until the matter goes to court.
Both Ali and Neil find themselves in Bellbird Bay. Ali comes to visit her brother, Adam, who has recently settled with his new partner. Neil and his daughter, Bronte, come to stay with his father, Harry, who runs the local bookstore. Lucky he does return to Bellbird Bay because it turns out that Harry is having some health issues and is going to need some support for a while.
Both of them are looking at what comes next for them in terms of their career. Neither of them are looking for love, but Bellbird Bay has something of a reputation for being a town where love comes to those who least expect it.
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March 30, 2023
Another amazing mature romance! Neil and Ali both probably jobless flee to the beach where there is family, new friends to meet and lots of twists and turns making this a book you won’t put down until the end.
May 11, 2023
Another two new arrivals are hoping Bellbird Bay will work its healing magic, both escaping from real world problems at crossroads in their lives. Perth-based Alison has visited before, when she reconnected with brother Adam – forced to take leave from her university post in Women’s Studies when a difficult situation arises, she needs some breathing space and some time to consider her future. Neil’s situation is similar – caught up in a problem at his Brisbane school but brought up in the Bay, he arrives with daughter Bronte to find that his father Harry, who runs the bookshop, is grappling with some health issues that are more serious than they initially appear.
Neither of them is looking for love – Alison in particular is fiercely independent, with an aversion to relationships because of her complicated past, and the distance between them when they return to their former lives would just make everything too difficult. But they grow closer – a relationship I really believed in – and begin to see that the futures they both envisage could turn into something neither of them had expected.
One of the author’s strengths – one of many, I should add – is in the way she creates such sympathetic characters, so easy to identify with. I really liked Alison – she had a lot of traits I think I rather share, and I was with her every step of the way as she made her choices and decided what course would make her happy. And Neil’s situation – the fragile and ageing parent, and how to handle the situation – is a dilemma so very familiar to so many of us in later life, and my heart went out to him. I must say too that I thought the book gave a particular insight into his father’s particular illness, not focused on often enough in fiction – sensitively handled, and emotional in all the right ways. I also very much liked the focus on the women’s centre where Alison begins helping out – perhaps unexpected in an idyllic setting like Bellbird Bay, but a facility it’d be good to see more often in larger communities too.
As always, the characters’ story is set against the backdrop of the community many of us have come to know so well – that lovely enveloping warmth and welcome to strangers, with cameo appearances from a range of familiar individuals whose lives have gently moved on from the earlier books. The author’s emotional touch is as perfect as ever as both Alison and Neil make decisions about the future, the setting beautifully described (and I really enjoyed spending some time among the shelves at Bay Books…), and all with a particularly uplifting and satisfying conclusion. Have I ever mentioned how much I love this series? This was one of my favourites so far… a strong recommendation from me.
Neither of them is looking for love – Alison in particular is fiercely independent, with an aversion to relationships because of her complicated past, and the distance between them when they return to their former lives would just make everything too difficult. But they grow closer – a relationship I really believed in – and begin to see that the futures they both envisage could turn into something neither of them had expected.
One of the author’s strengths – one of many, I should add – is in the way she creates such sympathetic characters, so easy to identify with. I really liked Alison – she had a lot of traits I think I rather share, and I was with her every step of the way as she made her choices and decided what course would make her happy. And Neil’s situation – the fragile and ageing parent, and how to handle the situation – is a dilemma so very familiar to so many of us in later life, and my heart went out to him. I must say too that I thought the book gave a particular insight into his father’s particular illness, not focused on often enough in fiction – sensitively handled, and emotional in all the right ways. I also very much liked the focus on the women’s centre where Alison begins helping out – perhaps unexpected in an idyllic setting like Bellbird Bay, but a facility it’d be good to see more often in larger communities too.
As always, the characters’ story is set against the backdrop of the community many of us have come to know so well – that lovely enveloping warmth and welcome to strangers, with cameo appearances from a range of familiar individuals whose lives have gently moved on from the earlier books. The author’s emotional touch is as perfect as ever as both Alison and Neil make decisions about the future, the setting beautifully described (and I really enjoyed spending some time among the shelves at Bay Books…), and all with a particularly uplifting and satisfying conclusion. Have I ever mentioned how much I love this series? This was one of my favourites so far… a strong recommendation from me.
April 28, 2023
I was pleased to be back in Bellbird Bay. Maggie Christensen has done it again in this next part of the series. Bellbird Bay is a beautiful fictional town and a great place to take some time out. This is what Ali hopes, as she takes some leave from her job at Perth University. I liked Libby and thought Clancy was cute, as was Milo the dog.
Neil is a headteacher who ends up in Bellbird Bay with his daughter, Brontë.
There are so many emotions, happy and sad, as the characters navigate their lives. People in Bellbird Bay are very welcoming and helpful. I found myself wanting Ali and Neil to see each other again just as much as they did after their first meeting and I was happy for them that they’d met.
Escape to Bellbird Bay is written in Maggie’s signature relaxing immersive writing style is one I love.
Harry, Neil’s father, works at Bay Books. I enjoyed the atmosphere of the bookshop and how it in itself felt like a sub-community within Bellbird Bay. I liked how the doctor explained about Parkinson’s disease and felt that went a long way to raise awareness of the condition.
Thanks to Maggie Christensen, Cala Publishing and Rachel’s Random Resources for my eARC in exchange for an honest and voluntary review,
5 stars
Neil is a headteacher who ends up in Bellbird Bay with his daughter, Brontë.
There are so many emotions, happy and sad, as the characters navigate their lives. People in Bellbird Bay are very welcoming and helpful. I found myself wanting Ali and Neil to see each other again just as much as they did after their first meeting and I was happy for them that they’d met.
Escape to Bellbird Bay is written in Maggie’s signature relaxing immersive writing style is one I love.
Harry, Neil’s father, works at Bay Books. I enjoyed the atmosphere of the bookshop and how it in itself felt like a sub-community within Bellbird Bay. I liked how the doctor explained about Parkinson’s disease and felt that went a long way to raise awareness of the condition.
Thanks to Maggie Christensen, Cala Publishing and Rachel’s Random Resources for my eARC in exchange for an honest and voluntary review,
5 stars
March 24, 2026
I really enjoyed this next instalment in the Bellbird Bay series. This time it’s Adams sister Ali who comes across from WA for a break from her university position taking some long service leave. There she meets Neil who is also on a break from his senior position at a prestigious boys school in Brisbane after a scandal rocked 5e school. Neil is also conscious that his father Harry’s health is in decline e after a recent diagnosis of Parkinson’s disease. Harry is struggling running the local book store. Again we meet characters from the previous books but that doesn’t take away from what was a lovely story of taking chances on love. Maggie’s books are so comforting to read and I highly recommend,y recommend to readers of Women’s fiction.
April 25, 2023
The series keeps getting better!
I always enjoy Maggie's books, but I'm really loving this series she created in Bellbird Bay. Who wouldn't want to live there? It's a paradise for mature people searching for a second chance at love and fulfillment.
In this book, Allison is a successful professor lecturing in women's studies at a university in Perth. Unfortunately, there's a major scandal involving one of her male colleagues and a female student. She takes an extended leave and lands in Bellbird Bay where her brother and his girlfriend live.
Neil is the principal at a prestigious boy's school in Brisbane. However, a misappropriation of funds charge has been brought against the school board president so Neil is advised to take some time off. He goes to help out his dad, the owner of the local bookstore in Bellbird Bay, who is in failing health.
In my opinion, they've actually been dealt with unfairly. Both dealing with career problems and for Neil, additional family health issues, they seem to be magnetically drawn to one another - a refuge - and are often thrown together with all the openness of their new friends on the coast. Can Ali risk a commitment filled with new possibilities?
I love the way Maggie writes their struggles and the genuine, warm support from the secondary characters. I also love the way in which she portrays the fact that people of a mature age can still be desirable! This entire series is FAB!
I always enjoy Maggie's books, but I'm really loving this series she created in Bellbird Bay. Who wouldn't want to live there? It's a paradise for mature people searching for a second chance at love and fulfillment.
In this book, Allison is a successful professor lecturing in women's studies at a university in Perth. Unfortunately, there's a major scandal involving one of her male colleagues and a female student. She takes an extended leave and lands in Bellbird Bay where her brother and his girlfriend live.
Neil is the principal at a prestigious boy's school in Brisbane. However, a misappropriation of funds charge has been brought against the school board president so Neil is advised to take some time off. He goes to help out his dad, the owner of the local bookstore in Bellbird Bay, who is in failing health.
In my opinion, they've actually been dealt with unfairly. Both dealing with career problems and for Neil, additional family health issues, they seem to be magnetically drawn to one another - a refuge - and are often thrown together with all the openness of their new friends on the coast. Can Ali risk a commitment filled with new possibilities?
I love the way Maggie writes their struggles and the genuine, warm support from the secondary characters. I also love the way in which she portrays the fact that people of a mature age can still be desirable! This entire series is FAB!
March 31, 2023
‘Escape to Bellbird Bay’, the latest story in Maggie Christensen’s Bellbird Bay series, is the best yet. In her inimitable style, Maggie introduces us to two dedicated, successful people, each of whom has arrived at a major crossroad in their lives.
Alison has visited Bellbird Bay in an earlier story, reconnecting with her estranged brother, so when she is forced to take leave from her career as a university professor, she returns for a longer stay while evaluating and reassessing her life.
Will she still have a job when her leave is over? Does she still want to work with the same people who’ve shown her such disrespect? What else could she do? And when she is instantly attracted to Neil, she has to ask herself an even more personal question. Should she break her lifetime rule of avoiding commitments? How can she include Neil in her life? They’ll be the width of the continent apart when she returns to her home.
As for Neil, he also has been dealt with unfairly. Now, as well as grappling with career problems, he is beset with serious family issues to which he sees no easy solution. All he is sure of is that somehow or other, he wants, needs, Alison in his life.
As Alison and Neil struggle to create new lives, Bellbird Bay works it’s magic, offering new directions, opening up new possibilities, if they have the courage to accept the challenges.
Read ‘Escape to Bellbird Bay’ and bask in the warmth of community and friends, as, with heart-warming empathy, Maggie Christensen gently guides Alison and Neil in unravelling the complex problems and challenging solutions they encounter.
Thank you, Maggie, for allowing me to read an Advanced Reader Copy of ‘Escape to Bellbird Bay’.
Alison has visited Bellbird Bay in an earlier story, reconnecting with her estranged brother, so when she is forced to take leave from her career as a university professor, she returns for a longer stay while evaluating and reassessing her life.
Will she still have a job when her leave is over? Does she still want to work with the same people who’ve shown her such disrespect? What else could she do? And when she is instantly attracted to Neil, she has to ask herself an even more personal question. Should she break her lifetime rule of avoiding commitments? How can she include Neil in her life? They’ll be the width of the continent apart when she returns to her home.
As for Neil, he also has been dealt with unfairly. Now, as well as grappling with career problems, he is beset with serious family issues to which he sees no easy solution. All he is sure of is that somehow or other, he wants, needs, Alison in his life.
As Alison and Neil struggle to create new lives, Bellbird Bay works it’s magic, offering new directions, opening up new possibilities, if they have the courage to accept the challenges.
Read ‘Escape to Bellbird Bay’ and bask in the warmth of community and friends, as, with heart-warming empathy, Maggie Christensen gently guides Alison and Neil in unravelling the complex problems and challenging solutions they encounter.
Thank you, Maggie, for allowing me to read an Advanced Reader Copy of ‘Escape to Bellbird Bay’.
May 12, 2023
Escape To Bellbird Bay by Maggie Christensen is the sixth book in the Bellbird Bay series but can be read as a stand-alone. It is such a charming contemporary novel. I love my visits to the fictional Bellbird Bay, I always feel as if I am coming home.
Maggie Christensen writes with warmth and sensitivity as she has some tough themes at times. We see the effect of witnessing domestic abuse as a child has on a character. All her life she has feared love and marriage as she equates it with bruises and pain.
Maggie Christensen shows that we are not destined to turn into our parents. Our choices do not have to mirror theirs. We are all individuals carving our own way in life.
Bellbird Bay is a place of refuge. It offers love, friendship and fresh starts. Hurting characters can heal. We see life throws some terrible, undeserved blows, but escaping to Bellbird Bay gives characters the chance to re-assess lives and decide what really matters.
I love the fact that the majority of characters are fifty plus with some being over eighty. Life is for living no matter what your age. We are never too old to grab life, make new choices and really live.
Family is important. Family pull together offering love and support.
I absolutely adore Bellbird Bay and getting to know the characters who are all charming, realistic and likable. Bellbird Bay is a place where we would all like to live. It is just a book away – so why not grab yourself a copy today.
I received a free copy via Rachel’s Random Resources for a blog tour. A favourable review was not required. All opinions are my own.
Maggie Christensen writes with warmth and sensitivity as she has some tough themes at times. We see the effect of witnessing domestic abuse as a child has on a character. All her life she has feared love and marriage as she equates it with bruises and pain.
Maggie Christensen shows that we are not destined to turn into our parents. Our choices do not have to mirror theirs. We are all individuals carving our own way in life.
Bellbird Bay is a place of refuge. It offers love, friendship and fresh starts. Hurting characters can heal. We see life throws some terrible, undeserved blows, but escaping to Bellbird Bay gives characters the chance to re-assess lives and decide what really matters.
I love the fact that the majority of characters are fifty plus with some being over eighty. Life is for living no matter what your age. We are never too old to grab life, make new choices and really live.
Family is important. Family pull together offering love and support.
I absolutely adore Bellbird Bay and getting to know the characters who are all charming, realistic and likable. Bellbird Bay is a place where we would all like to live. It is just a book away – so why not grab yourself a copy today.
I received a free copy via Rachel’s Random Resources for a blog tour. A favourable review was not required. All opinions are my own.
April 22, 2023
It was so good to be back in Bellbird Bay, the small fictional town on the Queensland coast, where this great series of novels in set.
The predicaments, dilemmas and emotional baggage of the two main characters in this latest addition to series had me hooked from the start.
When Perth based university academic, Ali, and Brisbane headteacher, Neil, meet soon after they’ve both arrived in Bellbird Bay, the two of them are at a major crossroads in their lives and are taking some time out to decide what to do next.
There’s an almost instant attraction between these two somewhat lost souls. But both have so much emotional baggage and are only in the seaside town for a short time that any sort of meaningful relationship seems doomed from the start.
But, of course, Bellbird Bay works its magic on these conflicted characters as this wonderful, poignant and romantic story unfolds.
Yes, this was another first class romantic story from this prolific author and, as with all her novels, it shows yet again that it’s never too late to fall in love.
I was lucky to get an early read of this book. It will be published on 11th May and can be pre-ordered now.
Like all the books in the series, Escape to Bellbird Bay can be read as a standalone, but I highly recommend that you read all the previous ones and get the added joy of returning to this special place again and again and catching up with previous characters you’ve met along the way.
The predicaments, dilemmas and emotional baggage of the two main characters in this latest addition to series had me hooked from the start.
When Perth based university academic, Ali, and Brisbane headteacher, Neil, meet soon after they’ve both arrived in Bellbird Bay, the two of them are at a major crossroads in their lives and are taking some time out to decide what to do next.
There’s an almost instant attraction between these two somewhat lost souls. But both have so much emotional baggage and are only in the seaside town for a short time that any sort of meaningful relationship seems doomed from the start.
But, of course, Bellbird Bay works its magic on these conflicted characters as this wonderful, poignant and romantic story unfolds.
Yes, this was another first class romantic story from this prolific author and, as with all her novels, it shows yet again that it’s never too late to fall in love.
I was lucky to get an early read of this book. It will be published on 11th May and can be pre-ordered now.
Like all the books in the series, Escape to Bellbird Bay can be read as a standalone, but I highly recommend that you read all the previous ones and get the added joy of returning to this special place again and again and catching up with previous characters you’ve met along the way.
May 15, 2023
Another brilliant story set in Bellbird Bay
Where mature folks come not planning to stay.
They're escaping drama to relax for a while
Not expecting to settle there and to wear a huge smile.
Alison Wells is a university lecturer who
Is asked to take a sabbatical for a month or two.
She's upset the establishment by supporting someone
And now the hierarchy want her to be gone....
She decides to go stay at Bellbird Bay a rest
Connecting with her brother will be the best.
She's not looking for a partner or for romance
She's determined not to give love any chance.
Neil Simpson grew up in Bellbird Bay
And returns there when drama comes his way.
He's the principal at a prestigious school
But scandal has rocked it and life isn't cool.
In Bellbird Bay these two first meet.
The attraction is there even before they greet.
But with lives full of drama dare they give love a chance?
Is there any hope for them to have a romance?
This story is filled with characters I've read about before
And it is great to catch up with them all once more.
However, this will work as a standalone read, too,
And I highly recommend it to you!
There's family dramas, new friendships and chances,
The sea, surfing, celebrations and dances!
A heartwarming read with romances for many more
The kind of story I really adore.
For my complementary copy, I say thank you,
As I share with you this, my honest review.
Where mature folks come not planning to stay.
They're escaping drama to relax for a while
Not expecting to settle there and to wear a huge smile.
Alison Wells is a university lecturer who
Is asked to take a sabbatical for a month or two.
She's upset the establishment by supporting someone
And now the hierarchy want her to be gone....
She decides to go stay at Bellbird Bay a rest
Connecting with her brother will be the best.
She's not looking for a partner or for romance
She's determined not to give love any chance.
Neil Simpson grew up in Bellbird Bay
And returns there when drama comes his way.
He's the principal at a prestigious school
But scandal has rocked it and life isn't cool.
In Bellbird Bay these two first meet.
The attraction is there even before they greet.
But with lives full of drama dare they give love a chance?
Is there any hope for them to have a romance?
This story is filled with characters I've read about before
And it is great to catch up with them all once more.
However, this will work as a standalone read, too,
And I highly recommend it to you!
There's family dramas, new friendships and chances,
The sea, surfing, celebrations and dances!
A heartwarming read with romances for many more
The kind of story I really adore.
For my complementary copy, I say thank you,
As I share with you this, my honest review.
May 14, 2023
My first read by the wonderful Maggie Christensen , her story and writing was so lovely, it was so nice reading about a more mature couple finding love and happiness, for a change . In this book the sixth in the series, our couple are Alison and Neil, although Bellbird Bay is a series it can definitely be read as a stand-alone, I did and wasn’t lost at all, it just made me want to read the rest I loved it si much.
Maggie writes such great characters, so easy to relate to and empathise with. I liked the focus the story gave to Neils father’s illness, I really felt it was dealt with so much care and sensitivity, but how much care Neil gave to his father, the attention and regard for his feelings was beautiful. I loved Neil’s focus of the story so much.
The characters’ story is set against the backdrop of Bellbird Bay, a fictional seaside town in Queensland, I loved the setting so much, it just felt like somewhere id want to visit and never leave. It’s got a community with so much warmth and familiarity, even if it’s your first read like me, it feels like you’ve been there before, like returning to an old friend.
This is a wonderful story, full of heart and real life problems, romance and one without drama and such an uplifting conclusion.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Maggie writes such great characters, so easy to relate to and empathise with. I liked the focus the story gave to Neils father’s illness, I really felt it was dealt with so much care and sensitivity, but how much care Neil gave to his father, the attention and regard for his feelings was beautiful. I loved Neil’s focus of the story so much.
The characters’ story is set against the backdrop of Bellbird Bay, a fictional seaside town in Queensland, I loved the setting so much, it just felt like somewhere id want to visit and never leave. It’s got a community with so much warmth and familiarity, even if it’s your first read like me, it feels like you’ve been there before, like returning to an old friend.
This is a wonderful story, full of heart and real life problems, romance and one without drama and such an uplifting conclusion.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
April 28, 2023
Serious life issues complicate romance, even in paradise!🏖
4-4.5🌟 stars
I really enjoyed this easy read with an active beachside location and some realistic hitches to overcome for fifty-something protagonists Ali and Neil who come to Bellbird Bay from opposite sides of the continent.
A Queensland beach town where over fifties seem to have a high success rate at finding a perfect partner? I found this a great set-up for their story, especially since it got Ali to reconsider her negative attitude toward romance. And both Neil and Ali really need a good atmosphere for reevaluating their career and personal priorities.
Apart from their romance what really resonated for me was Neil's father Harry's health crisis and how sensitive Neil is to Harry's needs. In fact, Neil's part of the story appealed to me most. He's dealing with a nagging ex-wife, a career in education hit by scandal not of his own doing, a daughter wanting to spread her wings and a father reluctant to adapt despite his advanced age and a troubling medical diagnosis. And not even his romance escapes problems, the main one being geographic. The way he handles it all made him a great male lead.
I read a complimentary advance copy of the book; this is my voluntary and honest opinion.
4-4.5🌟 stars
I really enjoyed this easy read with an active beachside location and some realistic hitches to overcome for fifty-something protagonists Ali and Neil who come to Bellbird Bay from opposite sides of the continent.
A Queensland beach town where over fifties seem to have a high success rate at finding a perfect partner? I found this a great set-up for their story, especially since it got Ali to reconsider her negative attitude toward romance. And both Neil and Ali really need a good atmosphere for reevaluating their career and personal priorities.
Apart from their romance what really resonated for me was Neil's father Harry's health crisis and how sensitive Neil is to Harry's needs. In fact, Neil's part of the story appealed to me most. He's dealing with a nagging ex-wife, a career in education hit by scandal not of his own doing, a daughter wanting to spread her wings and a father reluctant to adapt despite his advanced age and a troubling medical diagnosis. And not even his romance escapes problems, the main one being geographic. The way he handles it all made him a great male lead.
I read a complimentary advance copy of the book; this is my voluntary and honest opinion.
April 11, 2023
Neil Simpson and Alison Well's have both been stood down from their academic jobs and decide to Escape to Bellbird Bay to sort out their careers while on extended leave .
Neil along with his daughter Bronte stays with his father in the family home , helping him out in his bookstore and finds his father's health is failing.
Ali is thrilled with her rental accomodation and enjoys spending time with her brother Adam and his partner and loves relaxing on the pristine beach on the Queensland Coast
Maggie Christensen has written another heartwarming book , number 6 in the series and it is great to meet many of the characters we have met in earlier books.
I felt the ending was a little rushed but always enjoy the author's writing style , and felt myself transported into the lives of those living in the coastal town , feeling their anguish as they search for a way forward in their lives.
Anyone who enjoys a family drama will find this a worthwhile read .
Thanks to the author for a copy to read and review.
Neil along with his daughter Bronte stays with his father in the family home , helping him out in his bookstore and finds his father's health is failing.
Ali is thrilled with her rental accomodation and enjoys spending time with her brother Adam and his partner and loves relaxing on the pristine beach on the Queensland Coast
Maggie Christensen has written another heartwarming book , number 6 in the series and it is great to meet many of the characters we have met in earlier books.
I felt the ending was a little rushed but always enjoy the author's writing style , and felt myself transported into the lives of those living in the coastal town , feeling their anguish as they search for a way forward in their lives.
Anyone who enjoys a family drama will find this a worthwhile read .
Thanks to the author for a copy to read and review.
May 11, 2023
Once again, we are in the coastal town of Bellbird Bay on Queensland's Sunshine Coast.
I have read several books in the Bellbird Bay series and have enjoyed every one of them. It's a charming tight knit community and I've met many of the characters. They are warm and welcoming especially to outsiders which they welcome into the fray making them feel right at home.
I especially enjoyed seeing the comradery the characters have with each other. I know I would feel comfortable living here.
A beautiful mature romance that had both main characters that I loved.
I always enjoy this author's books and know I'll be happy when I read them, and she doesn't disappoint. Another thing I like about the books is that there is no drama in them, just feel good, realistic situations. Highly recommended!
May 11, 2023 publication date.
I was given a complimentary copy of this book.
All opinions expressed are my own.
I have read several books in the Bellbird Bay series and have enjoyed every one of them. It's a charming tight knit community and I've met many of the characters. They are warm and welcoming especially to outsiders which they welcome into the fray making them feel right at home.
I especially enjoyed seeing the comradery the characters have with each other. I know I would feel comfortable living here.
A beautiful mature romance that had both main characters that I loved.
I always enjoy this author's books and know I'll be happy when I read them, and she doesn't disappoint. Another thing I like about the books is that there is no drama in them, just feel good, realistic situations. Highly recommended!
May 11, 2023 publication date.
I was given a complimentary copy of this book.
All opinions expressed are my own.
May 11, 2023
I really enjoyed reading Maggie Christensen's newly released book, "Escape to Bellbird Bay"! It is book six in Bellbird Bay series, but it can be read and enjoyed as a standalone novel.
I love going to the small picturesque, fictional seaside town of Bellbird Bay
on Queensland's Sunshine Coast in Australia and 'catching up' with Libby and Adam, their friendly dog Milo, Bev, Grace and Ted, Cleo, and Will and Owen Rankin.
Immediately I liked Ali Wells and Neil Simpson and Neil's daughter Bronte, and his father Harry, who owned the local bookstore and felt for each one when their lives unexpectedly fell apart. The characters are well developed, and have realistic life problems.
I highly recommend this heart-warming story of family, friends, and how a second chance at love can happen when you least expect it.
5 stars
I love going to the small picturesque, fictional seaside town of Bellbird Bay
on Queensland's Sunshine Coast in Australia and 'catching up' with Libby and Adam, their friendly dog Milo, Bev, Grace and Ted, Cleo, and Will and Owen Rankin.
Immediately I liked Ali Wells and Neil Simpson and Neil's daughter Bronte, and his father Harry, who owned the local bookstore and felt for each one when their lives unexpectedly fell apart. The characters are well developed, and have realistic life problems.
I highly recommend this heart-warming story of family, friends, and how a second chance at love can happen when you least expect it.
5 stars
May 9, 2023
I love reading Maggie's books, it's like sitting down for a cuppa and a chat with an old friend.
This one is no exception, as the characters deal with the challenges of their generation: Life as an older single after relationship breakdown or loss of a loved partner, complications of the lives of children and grandchildren, past partners causing problems, and of course finding love again later in life. So good to have love stories that are not confined to young people!
And when you read the series, the succession of characters from a small part in one book to a main character in a later book, makes you feel like you are meeting old friends.
I read this in 2 days.
This one is no exception, as the characters deal with the challenges of their generation: Life as an older single after relationship breakdown or loss of a loved partner, complications of the lives of children and grandchildren, past partners causing problems, and of course finding love again later in life. So good to have love stories that are not confined to young people!
And when you read the series, the succession of characters from a small part in one book to a main character in a later book, makes you feel like you are meeting old friends.
I read this in 2 days.
April 9, 2023
As usual I look forward to reading Maggie Christensen ‘s books and this was no exception. It is a light hearted read and ideal for the summer. Ali has problems with her university and escapes to Bellbird Bay and meets Neil who also has had to leave his position as head teacher after scandal rocks the school and has had to return to his hometown to help his father in his bookshop. Despite avoiding commitment Ali and Neill become close. I enjoyed this book very much although I thought the ending was a little disappointing and could have had more detail.
April 20, 2023
I was so excited to be able to read another of Maggie Christensen’s books. Thank you Maggie fir including me in your pre-release readers group. If your a fan of Maggie’s books i’m pretty sure you knew that Alison and Neil would fall in love but the wonderful story of their second chance love draws you in and you experience, with them, every up and down on their road to happiness. It was nice to revisit all the other lovely characters in Bellbird Bay. I personally experienced a second chance love in my twilight years so i always love to read of those experiences. Thank you Maggie.
May 17, 2023
A refreshing romance to tug on your heart strings! Neil and Ali are both at a crossroads in life and they escape to Bellbird Bay for some much needed rest and relaxation and also some family time. With family dramas and work complications both find themselves looking for something new. I absolutely loved this book as it has different twists and turns and issues arising around a new found romance. I was unable to put it down and read it in a few hours. With characters who feel like friends and I came to genuinely care about them. A great book to read on the weekend!
May 8, 2023
Another Mature Couple Finds Love and Happiness at Bellbird Bay
This is the sixth book in a women's fiction series. The stories all share characters and locations. Each book is a complete story without cliffhanger endings. Once again, two strangers find shelter from midlife career issues in the happy solitude of Bellbird Bay. This is a good story! Most readers know how it will end, and are there to enjoy the ride.
This is the sixth book in a women's fiction series. The stories all share characters and locations. Each book is a complete story without cliffhanger endings. Once again, two strangers find shelter from midlife career issues in the happy solitude of Bellbird Bay. This is a good story! Most readers know how it will end, and are there to enjoy the ride.
October 27, 2023
Ali is a university professor from Perth. Her brother lives in Bellbird Bay, so when she has a longer break than usual due to university politics, she decides to stay near her brother. Neil is headmaster of a private school in Brisbane. When financial misappropriation by a school board member comes to light, although he is found innocent, Neil has to take leave and returns home to his father's house in Bellbird Bay. When these two meet sparks fly.
May 17, 2023
Soul searching at the crossroads
Another great story to escape into,thanks to the talented Maggie Christensen.Meeting old familiar friends and new characters who dwell in and around Bellbird Bay. A treat for the soul.
Another great story to escape into,thanks to the talented Maggie Christensen.Meeting old familiar friends and new characters who dwell in and around Bellbird Bay. A treat for the soul.
January 28, 2025
Book 6/8 Escape to Bellbird Bay was a very nice read. Eli & Neil's story was a comforting story of love which was too strong.They realised that they could be happy together, far more than being apart.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 5, 2023
This is a wonderful book, and series. I loved the characters. Even though I was given a copy of this book by the author, it in no way influenced my opinion and this is my honest review.
May 5, 2023
Excellent story! Hard to put down. Another success for Maggie!
November 14, 2023
One book better than the other. Captivating, addictive series. Most recommended.
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