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Gum Tree Gully
Bestselling Australian romance author Mandy Magro tells a heartwarming story of homecoming and love against all the odds ...
Would you give up everything for love? Samantha Evans may have been born and bred in the country, but over the years she has adapted to, and loves, her big-city life in London. She's reached heights of success in her business that she'd never dreamed of achieving back in Australia. When her best friend's wedding forces her to return to her beautiful Queensland hometown of Gum Tree Gully, fate reminds Sammie about everything, and everyone, she left behind, including her childhood sweetheart, Connor Stone. Now a handsome and kind cattle farmer, he harbours a tragic secret he can't share with anyone. That is, until Sammie comes back to town. Samantha soon learns her country blood runs much deeper than she allowed herself to believe, so too do the intense feelings she's carried for Connor all these years. But her life is overseas now, while his is in Gum Tree Gully. Living on opposite sides of the world, with oceans and long-held secrets standing between them, is there any hope for their love to prevail? PRAISE FOR MANDY 'A deliciously blissful romance that will have you hooked from beginning to end.' - Better Reading 'Mandy Magro is a novelist who continues to go from strength to strength and Home Sweet Home is another earnest story from this big-hearted storyteller.' - Mrs B's Book Reviews
Would you give up everything for love? Samantha Evans may have been born and bred in the country, but over the years she has adapted to, and loves, her big-city life in London. She's reached heights of success in her business that she'd never dreamed of achieving back in Australia. When her best friend's wedding forces her to return to her beautiful Queensland hometown of Gum Tree Gully, fate reminds Sammie about everything, and everyone, she left behind, including her childhood sweetheart, Connor Stone. Now a handsome and kind cattle farmer, he harbours a tragic secret he can't share with anyone. That is, until Sammie comes back to town. Samantha soon learns her country blood runs much deeper than she allowed herself to believe, so too do the intense feelings she's carried for Connor all these years. But her life is overseas now, while his is in Gum Tree Gully. Living on opposite sides of the world, with oceans and long-held secrets standing between them, is there any hope for their love to prevail? PRAISE FOR MANDY 'A deliciously blissful romance that will have you hooked from beginning to end.' - Better Reading 'Mandy Magro is a novelist who continues to go from strength to strength and Home Sweet Home is another earnest story from this big-hearted storyteller.' - Mrs B's Book Reviews
- GenresRomanceFriendship
289 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 4, 2023
15 people are currently reading
100 people want to read
About the author
Mandy Magro
39 books334 followersMandy Magro lives in Cairns, Far North Queensland, with her daughter, Chloe Rose. With pristine aqua-blue coastline in one direction, and sweeping rural landscapes in the other, she describes her home as heaven on earth. A passionate woman, and a romantic at heart, she loves writing about soul-deep love, the Australian rural way of life, and all the wonderful characters that live there.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews
October 7, 2023
EXCERPT: Once upon a time, in another time, another place, Samantha Evans had believed in happily-ever-afters. Untroubled by what might lie ahead of her, she'd roamed and ridden the endless stretches of sun-baked land beneath a wide Aussie outback sky, her soul as wild as her chaotic hair, and her spirit as free as the wind. But in the blink of an eye, her entire world had been flipped on its head.
ABOUT 'GUM TREE GULLY': Would you give up everything for love? Samantha Evans may have been born and bred in the country, but over the years she has adapted to, and loves, her big-city life in London. She's reached heights of success in her business that she'd never dreamed of achieving back in Australia. When her best friend's wedding forces her to return to her beautiful Queensland hometown of Gum Tree Gully, fate reminds Sammie about everything, and everyone, she left behind, including her childhood sweetheart, Connor Stone. Now a handsome and kind cattle farmer, he harbours a tragic secret he can't share with anyone. That is, until Sammie comes back to town. Samantha soon learns her country blood runs much deeper than she allowed herself to believe, so too do the intense feelings she's carried for Connor all these years. But her life is overseas now, while his is in Gum Tree Gully. Living on opposite sides of the world, with oceans and long-held secrets standing between them, is there any hope for their love to prevail?
MY THOUGHTS: This is my first read of Mandy Magro, and WOW! I loved the setting, rural North Queensland, and the characters. Sammie, Shea, Jack and Connor were childhood friends until a tragedy sent Sammie running for the hills (or in this case, London). Now Shea and Jack have their lovely little daughter Amaya - she is the one who made me tear up! - and are getting married. Sammie reluctantly returns for her bestie's wedding and is forced to face her fears and lay to rest her ghosts.
The story is told from the points of view of both Sammie and Connor and makes the most of the magnificent setting. North Queensland cowboys - gotta love them. I have fond memories of Gracemere saleyards, just out of Rockhampton, on sale day. Before they built the indoor yards, I really appreciated the view of the cowboys lined up, leaning on the railings in their tight Levis, R&M Williams boots and Akubras. I regret not taking a photo, because it's another thing gone in the name of progress. Anyway, back to the book . . .
There's a fair bit of drama, a lot of heartache, thwarted love, and crossed wires to keep the story interesting before we arrive at the inevitable HEA.
An enjoyable read.
🌟🌟🌟🌟
#GumTreeGully #NetGalley
THE AUTHOR: Mandy Magro lives in Cairns, Far North Queensland, with her daughter, Chloe Rose. With pristine aqua-blue coastline in one direction, and sweeping rural landscapes in the other, she describes her home as heaven on earth. A passionate woman, and a romantic at heart, she loves writing about soul-deep love, the Australian rural way of life, and all the wonderful characters that live there.
DISCLOSURE: Thank you to Harlequin Australia, HQ & MIRA, via NetGalley for providing a digital ARC of Gum Tree Gully by Mandy Magro for review. All opinions expressed in this review are my own personal opinions.
https://sandysbookaday.wordpress.com/...
ABOUT 'GUM TREE GULLY': Would you give up everything for love? Samantha Evans may have been born and bred in the country, but over the years she has adapted to, and loves, her big-city life in London. She's reached heights of success in her business that she'd never dreamed of achieving back in Australia. When her best friend's wedding forces her to return to her beautiful Queensland hometown of Gum Tree Gully, fate reminds Sammie about everything, and everyone, she left behind, including her childhood sweetheart, Connor Stone. Now a handsome and kind cattle farmer, he harbours a tragic secret he can't share with anyone. That is, until Sammie comes back to town. Samantha soon learns her country blood runs much deeper than she allowed herself to believe, so too do the intense feelings she's carried for Connor all these years. But her life is overseas now, while his is in Gum Tree Gully. Living on opposite sides of the world, with oceans and long-held secrets standing between them, is there any hope for their love to prevail?
MY THOUGHTS: This is my first read of Mandy Magro, and WOW! I loved the setting, rural North Queensland, and the characters. Sammie, Shea, Jack and Connor were childhood friends until a tragedy sent Sammie running for the hills (or in this case, London). Now Shea and Jack have their lovely little daughter Amaya - she is the one who made me tear up! - and are getting married. Sammie reluctantly returns for her bestie's wedding and is forced to face her fears and lay to rest her ghosts.
The story is told from the points of view of both Sammie and Connor and makes the most of the magnificent setting. North Queensland cowboys - gotta love them. I have fond memories of Gracemere saleyards, just out of Rockhampton, on sale day. Before they built the indoor yards, I really appreciated the view of the cowboys lined up, leaning on the railings in their tight Levis, R&M Williams boots and Akubras. I regret not taking a photo, because it's another thing gone in the name of progress. Anyway, back to the book . . .
There's a fair bit of drama, a lot of heartache, thwarted love, and crossed wires to keep the story interesting before we arrive at the inevitable HEA.
An enjoyable read.
🌟🌟🌟🌟
#GumTreeGully #NetGalley
THE AUTHOR: Mandy Magro lives in Cairns, Far North Queensland, with her daughter, Chloe Rose. With pristine aqua-blue coastline in one direction, and sweeping rural landscapes in the other, she describes her home as heaven on earth. A passionate woman, and a romantic at heart, she loves writing about soul-deep love, the Australian rural way of life, and all the wonderful characters that live there.
DISCLOSURE: Thank you to Harlequin Australia, HQ & MIRA, via NetGalley for providing a digital ARC of Gum Tree Gully by Mandy Magro for review. All opinions expressed in this review are my own personal opinions.
https://sandysbookaday.wordpress.com/...
September 4, 2023
Samantha Evans returns home to Gum Tree Valley after eleven years, her best friends Shea and Jack are finally getting married and she’s the matron of honour. Samantha has been living in London, her business is doing well and something she would have never achieved living in Queensland.
Returning to Gum Tree Valley is rather bitter sweet, it takes Samantha back to growing up on a farm, riding horses, hanging out with her group of friends, the huge crush she had on Connor, a care free time and until one night it all tragically changed.
Connor runs an Angus cattle farm, he works hard, feeding stock and repairing fences and has the muscles to prove it. Connor is harboring two tragic secrets, and one is about his recent health scare and the others about the last night of high school. Samantha soon realizes how much she’s missed Australia, Gum Tree Gully, her friends and Connor.
With the lead up to the wedding, Samantha and Connor help with the last minute plans, and they attend the hens and bucks nights. Samantha is being pulled in different directions, she knows she needs to return to London, her heart is telling her to stay and she doesn’t know what to do?
I received a digital copy of Gum Tree Gully by Mandy Magro from Harlequin Australia and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. The narrative is full of wonderful characters like Samantha, Shea, Connor, Jack, Judith, Oyster and cute little Amaya. It’s about living in North Queensland and working hard, they sure like their food and a cold beer, the Aussie sayings make me laugh out loud and Connor using them, the music playlist was full of familiar songs and you can't have a wedding in Australia without doing the nutbush.
A story about coming home, importance of friendship, facing your fears, being vulnerable and grateful for what you have, reconnecting with a lost love and dealing with the pain of the past. I couldn't swipe the pages of the book on my kindle fast enough, Mandy Magro nails it once again and five stars from me.
Returning to Gum Tree Valley is rather bitter sweet, it takes Samantha back to growing up on a farm, riding horses, hanging out with her group of friends, the huge crush she had on Connor, a care free time and until one night it all tragically changed.
Connor runs an Angus cattle farm, he works hard, feeding stock and repairing fences and has the muscles to prove it. Connor is harboring two tragic secrets, and one is about his recent health scare and the others about the last night of high school. Samantha soon realizes how much she’s missed Australia, Gum Tree Gully, her friends and Connor.
With the lead up to the wedding, Samantha and Connor help with the last minute plans, and they attend the hens and bucks nights. Samantha is being pulled in different directions, she knows she needs to return to London, her heart is telling her to stay and she doesn’t know what to do?
I received a digital copy of Gum Tree Gully by Mandy Magro from Harlequin Australia and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. The narrative is full of wonderful characters like Samantha, Shea, Connor, Jack, Judith, Oyster and cute little Amaya. It’s about living in North Queensland and working hard, they sure like their food and a cold beer, the Aussie sayings make me laugh out loud and Connor using them, the music playlist was full of familiar songs and you can't have a wedding in Australia without doing the nutbush.
A story about coming home, importance of friendship, facing your fears, being vulnerable and grateful for what you have, reconnecting with a lost love and dealing with the pain of the past. I couldn't swipe the pages of the book on my kindle fast enough, Mandy Magro nails it once again and five stars from me.
November 2, 2023
I do love a good rural romance and this one is so good, Mandy Magro does them so well and this one packed with so many emotions, filled with heartbreak, it is also very heartwarming, when Sammie ran away to England eleven years ago to start a new life, she never thought that she would return home after all these years and find that friendships are still strong, but how will her life turn out now after everything that has happened?
Samantha Evans is a totally different person than the one who fled tragedy and heartbreak when saying goodbye to the people she loved, she is now a business woman and just about divorced after more heartbreak, but when her bestie Shea wants her to return to Gum Tree Valley and be her maid of honour she cannot refuse.
It is not long before she is falling into her old self but meeting up with Connor Gunn sets her heart pounding, he is even more handsome than when she left and there is a spark but there is also a lot of water under the bridge between them, could there be a future for them?
Connor has never forgotten the love of his life Sammie, a lot was left untold when she ran all those years ago and there are some things that Sammie needs to know about the past and things that may affect the future, but he wants her so badly will they be able to overcome the past for the future?
This is a beautifully told story, it is very emotional and there is a lot to work out between Sammie and Connor before they get to their HEA, I loved the setting there is nothing like being on a rural property and besides Sammie and Connor the other characters in this story add so much. I do highly recommend this one, there were sad and happy tears from me
My thanks to Harlequin AU for my copy to read and review.
Samantha Evans is a totally different person than the one who fled tragedy and heartbreak when saying goodbye to the people she loved, she is now a business woman and just about divorced after more heartbreak, but when her bestie Shea wants her to return to Gum Tree Valley and be her maid of honour she cannot refuse.
It is not long before she is falling into her old self but meeting up with Connor Gunn sets her heart pounding, he is even more handsome than when she left and there is a spark but there is also a lot of water under the bridge between them, could there be a future for them?
Connor has never forgotten the love of his life Sammie, a lot was left untold when she ran all those years ago and there are some things that Sammie needs to know about the past and things that may affect the future, but he wants her so badly will they be able to overcome the past for the future?
This is a beautifully told story, it is very emotional and there is a lot to work out between Sammie and Connor before they get to their HEA, I loved the setting there is nothing like being on a rural property and besides Sammie and Connor the other characters in this story add so much. I do highly recommend this one, there were sad and happy tears from me
My thanks to Harlequin AU for my copy to read and review.
November 23, 2023
This book deserves all the stars !! I adored it. Its a book about a journey of self discovery and healing. This is the second 5 star book I have read by Mandy and I cant wait to read more. You took me to another place . I felt all the emotions in this book. I loved all the characters and in particular loved how Connor could cook.
January 16, 2024
A heart-warming Australian romance.
Not my usual genre but I enjoy Mandy Margo’s characters and rural Australian settings. Written to a standard formula there are no surprises, but that makes these type of novels enjoyable.
A lovely holiday read.
Not my usual genre but I enjoy Mandy Margo’s characters and rural Australian settings. Written to a standard formula there are no surprises, but that makes these type of novels enjoyable.
A lovely holiday read.
October 17, 2023
A split second decision made one party night led to the most devastating circumstances. In an instant, Samantha Evans not only lost her boyfriend, but her parents as well.
Seeking comfort with her boyfriend's twin brother was the second worst decision she'd ever made. Ashamed and vulnerable, Sammie fled her hometown of Gum Tree Gully without looking back. In turn, she also abandoned Connor Gunn whom she hasn't spoken to since.
Eleven years later, Sammie has found herself at a crossroads. Despite seeking a new home in busy London where she is a successful career woman, she's deeply unhappy. Finding herself on the verge of divorce is just the cherry upon the miserable icing.
Still, when she's forced back to partake in her besties wedding, Sammi's reluctant to board the flight. Bravery wins out though and before long, she's immersed in the laid back style of Gum Tree Gully once more. It's exactly what Sammi needed- to shed that city exterior by finding pleasure in things that matter most.
On top of that list is the re-established friendship between Connor and herself. There's no secret that they're absolutely in love, but miscommunication has always been their downfall. With time drawing nearer to Sammi's departure, there's no time like the present to finally take that leap towards their forever... Right?
It's just a shame that despite their best efforts of prevention, hearts are capable of being broken all over again.
Mandy's an auto buy author for me. I am always guaranteed an atmospheric setting, adorable animal friends, believable characters placed in relatable situations and timeless love stories that always manage to give me FEELS. I particularly adore the portrayal of the sisterhood in her books- strong female friendships that stand the test of time, ALA Sammie and Shea featured in her latest. These childhood besties certainly have each other's backs and know how to have heaps of fun together!
Shea and her fiancee Jack could give Sammie and Connor a run for their money as the cutest couple. Together with their little girl Amaya, this young family is an inspiration to many.
You're in for a treat if you're a foodie. I practically tasted all the goodies that were served up. Connor's not only a hottie- he can cook as well. There's something about a guy who owns a Thermie just quietly...
Thanks Harper Collins Australia for sending me a copy of this gem to read and review.
4.75 🌟
Seeking comfort with her boyfriend's twin brother was the second worst decision she'd ever made. Ashamed and vulnerable, Sammie fled her hometown of Gum Tree Gully without looking back. In turn, she also abandoned Connor Gunn whom she hasn't spoken to since.
Eleven years later, Sammie has found herself at a crossroads. Despite seeking a new home in busy London where she is a successful career woman, she's deeply unhappy. Finding herself on the verge of divorce is just the cherry upon the miserable icing.
Still, when she's forced back to partake in her besties wedding, Sammi's reluctant to board the flight. Bravery wins out though and before long, she's immersed in the laid back style of Gum Tree Gully once more. It's exactly what Sammi needed- to shed that city exterior by finding pleasure in things that matter most.
On top of that list is the re-established friendship between Connor and herself. There's no secret that they're absolutely in love, but miscommunication has always been their downfall. With time drawing nearer to Sammi's departure, there's no time like the present to finally take that leap towards their forever... Right?
It's just a shame that despite their best efforts of prevention, hearts are capable of being broken all over again.
Mandy's an auto buy author for me. I am always guaranteed an atmospheric setting, adorable animal friends, believable characters placed in relatable situations and timeless love stories that always manage to give me FEELS. I particularly adore the portrayal of the sisterhood in her books- strong female friendships that stand the test of time, ALA Sammie and Shea featured in her latest. These childhood besties certainly have each other's backs and know how to have heaps of fun together!
Shea and her fiancee Jack could give Sammie and Connor a run for their money as the cutest couple. Together with their little girl Amaya, this young family is an inspiration to many.
You're in for a treat if you're a foodie. I practically tasted all the goodies that were served up. Connor's not only a hottie- he can cook as well. There's something about a guy who owns a Thermie just quietly...
Thanks Harper Collins Australia for sending me a copy of this gem to read and review.
4.75 🌟
October 29, 2023
Set in far north Queensland, Gum Tree Gully exudes that sense of the tropics for which author Mandy Magro is so well known. As you read you can almost feel the sweat dripping down your back and smell the sweet scent of mangoes in the air.
Samantha Evans, a London risk analyst, left Gum Tree Gully eleven years earlier after the car her drunken boyfriend Angus was driving crashed head-on into her father’s car, killing both her parents and Angus, while injuring Samantha. She’s back in town for her best friend’s wedding and is fighting the ghosts of the past as well as her inconvenient attraction for Angus’s twin brother Connor.
Connor Gunn hs always secretly loved Samantha though his brother asked her out first. He’s hoping that seeing her again will give him the chance to show that he’s her perfect match despite a secret he’s held since the night of the crash.
These two are both damaged characters in different ways and each has built fences to protect their secrets. Despite this, they’re strong and very likeable characters and I couldn’t help cheering them on, though I did get a little exasperated with Samantha’s determination to return to London given the disaster of her life over there.
This story is packed with emotion ranging from guilt and loss to heartache, friendship and love. While it’s very much written for the Australian market and is packed with lingo and brands that may not be familiar to foreign readers, it is nonetheless an entertaining and engaging read.
Samantha Evans, a London risk analyst, left Gum Tree Gully eleven years earlier after the car her drunken boyfriend Angus was driving crashed head-on into her father’s car, killing both her parents and Angus, while injuring Samantha. She’s back in town for her best friend’s wedding and is fighting the ghosts of the past as well as her inconvenient attraction for Angus’s twin brother Connor.
Connor Gunn hs always secretly loved Samantha though his brother asked her out first. He’s hoping that seeing her again will give him the chance to show that he’s her perfect match despite a secret he’s held since the night of the crash.
These two are both damaged characters in different ways and each has built fences to protect their secrets. Despite this, they’re strong and very likeable characters and I couldn’t help cheering them on, though I did get a little exasperated with Samantha’s determination to return to London given the disaster of her life over there.
This story is packed with emotion ranging from guilt and loss to heartache, friendship and love. While it’s very much written for the Australian market and is packed with lingo and brands that may not be familiar to foreign readers, it is nonetheless an entertaining and engaging read.
October 23, 2023
Thank you Harlequin for sending us a copy to read and review.
Mandy’s stories always have a firm place in my heart and a permanent position on my book shelf.
Gum Tree Gully is the latest to add to that collection.
After fleeing the country as a teenager when a tragic accident occurred, Samantha Evans forged a successful life in London.
Now eleven years and a divorce later, she receives a text from her best friend, Shea.
She is getting married and wants Sam to be there for her special day.
Now it’s time to return home to Gum Tree Gully and face the past including her childhood sweetheart, Connor Gunn.
Connor is hot, kind and has never forgotten Samantha.
Can they both overcome the history between them and let love flow…..
The Queen of rural romance will melt your love organ and captivate your soul.
Mandy really knows how to give you the feels and pull the heart strings.
The bestselling author consistently gives the reader a tale that’s full of romance, chest flutters, spirit, joy, energy and good quality entertainment.
One thing, Mandy excels at is her fictional backdrop, you can feel the country atmosphere, the warm weather and whatever moment Mother Nature brings.
One that’s highly readable and one to include on your book list.
Mandy’s stories always have a firm place in my heart and a permanent position on my book shelf.
Gum Tree Gully is the latest to add to that collection.
After fleeing the country as a teenager when a tragic accident occurred, Samantha Evans forged a successful life in London.
Now eleven years and a divorce later, she receives a text from her best friend, Shea.
She is getting married and wants Sam to be there for her special day.
Now it’s time to return home to Gum Tree Gully and face the past including her childhood sweetheart, Connor Gunn.
Connor is hot, kind and has never forgotten Samantha.
Can they both overcome the history between them and let love flow…..
The Queen of rural romance will melt your love organ and captivate your soul.
Mandy really knows how to give you the feels and pull the heart strings.
The bestselling author consistently gives the reader a tale that’s full of romance, chest flutters, spirit, joy, energy and good quality entertainment.
One thing, Mandy excels at is her fictional backdrop, you can feel the country atmosphere, the warm weather and whatever moment Mother Nature brings.
One that’s highly readable and one to include on your book list.
December 5, 2023
I really loved this book after a bit of a reading slump. Sammie left Gum Tree Kelly after a nasty accident killed her boyfriend and parents, leaving her the sole survivor. Much to the dismay of her best friend and Connor, who always had feelings for her, she went to London where she met married (and now divorced) a guy who was never good enough for her. When her best friend asks her to be her Maid of Honour, Sammie has little choice but to face the ghosts of her past and return to Gum Tree Gully. Luckily Connor never left and is keen to see her again. Will Sammie be able to find comfort in her home town or will the ghosts chase her away again?
October 2, 2023
Thanks to NetGalley and Harlequin Australia for the chance to read this book.
If you have read Mandy Magro's previous work, then this story will feel familiar as she has a certain style that seems to flow through all of her rural romance novels.
Samantha and Connor's tale is full of heartache, drama, buried desires, and the predictable happy ending you expect in a romance novel, all set in the beauty of the Australian outback.
It was an enjoyable book to read, but at the same time, it didn't really grip me because of the predictability. Although, at times, I do search out books where I know everything will wrap up nicely, so the lack of interest at times was most likely on my part rather than the authors.
If you have read Mandy Magro's previous work, then this story will feel familiar as she has a certain style that seems to flow through all of her rural romance novels.
Samantha and Connor's tale is full of heartache, drama, buried desires, and the predictable happy ending you expect in a romance novel, all set in the beauty of the Australian outback.
It was an enjoyable book to read, but at the same time, it didn't really grip me because of the predictability. Although, at times, I do search out books where I know everything will wrap up nicely, so the lack of interest at times was most likely on my part rather than the authors.
August 30, 2023
A touching story of how people move forward from tragedy.
Samantha suffered a huge loss when a teenager and she left her town. She married, started a business in London. However, what she thought of her future life needs reassessing.
Connor also had tragedy occur that same night as Samantha. But he has also had to deal with health issues too.
Sammie and Connor meet again for their best friends wedding. Between their chemistry the earth moves for them. But they both need to find themselves first. But love has its own way of happiness.
A beautiful story that makes people realise what they could and can have.
Thanks to #netgalley for allowing me to read an ARC of this book.
Samantha suffered a huge loss when a teenager and she left her town. She married, started a business in London. However, what she thought of her future life needs reassessing.
Connor also had tragedy occur that same night as Samantha. But he has also had to deal with health issues too.
Sammie and Connor meet again for their best friends wedding. Between their chemistry the earth moves for them. But they both need to find themselves first. But love has its own way of happiness.
A beautiful story that makes people realise what they could and can have.
Thanks to #netgalley for allowing me to read an ARC of this book.
August 28, 2023
I found this to be an easy light read although a little predictable. A good holiday beach read.
I did find the dialogue a bit cringe worthy at times with the Aussie outback slang.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publishers for an advance copy of this book.
I did find the dialogue a bit cringe worthy at times with the Aussie outback slang.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publishers for an advance copy of this book.
June 3, 2024
Gum Tree Gully by Mandy Magro, follows Samantha Evans journey back to her home town Gum Tree Gully for her best friend's wedding, a town which holds painfully memories after a tragic accident.
Her new life is in London but the longer she stays the more she remembers all the things she loved about Gum Tree Gully, especially her friends and a possible romantic interest in Connor Gunn.
An easy to read book, which had a nice story line to keep you turning the pages as Sammi and Connor navigate their feelings and coming to terms with the past and how it impacted them both.
Another good read by Mandy Magro.
Thanks Harlequin for the copy to read and review
Her new life is in London but the longer she stays the more she remembers all the things she loved about Gum Tree Gully, especially her friends and a possible romantic interest in Connor Gunn.
An easy to read book, which had a nice story line to keep you turning the pages as Sammi and Connor navigate their feelings and coming to terms with the past and how it impacted them both.
Another good read by Mandy Magro.
Thanks Harlequin for the copy to read and review
January 1, 2024
Another great read by Mandy Magro.
October 28, 2023
Easy read with a good storyline, it was not always smooth sailing which makes for good reading! Good story with new characters!
October 28, 2023
Returning home holds memories and secrets for many members of Gum Tree Gully.
October 11, 2023
If only… What a man! I love the romantic plots Mandy Magro weaves and all of good, wholesome stuff, the things every woman dreams of and why would we want our reading journey to be realistic with all of the heartache and horror in today’s world. Thank you, Mandy! 😘
April 2, 2024
A book about love, loss, fighting your demons and love winning out in the end..
December 16, 2023
Another wonderful book that pulls you right in on the journey and teases you the entire way.
February 22, 2024
3.5 stars.
Samantha Evans was born and bred in the country, but she had made a life in London for years. Her best friend’s wedding saw her returning to her Queensland hometown of Gum Tree Gully, a place of past trauma that she left behind and that included her childhood sweetheart, Connor Gunn.
The start of the book threw me a bit because I didn’t expect it to open 11 years ago! It was a good insight into the character dynamics while they were young though. Unfortunately, it abruptly stopped and we were told in the next few chapters that significant things happened to Sam between the Prologue and Chapter 1 ‘off screen’. I wish we were shown these events rather than just being told.
Time-jump aside, I loved the idea of ‘mature love’ between Sam and Connor. They were broken people with a shared dark past. They both failed in subsequent relationships and faced adversities. I did wish the flirting went a little bit deeper than the usual party lines and getting drunk together, but in the end it was so good to see them finally having a meaningful discussion. I was invested in their relationship.
This was my first Mandy Magro book, and it won’t be the last!
(Thanks to Harlequin Australia for a gifted copy in exchange for an honest review)
See my bookstagram review.
Samantha Evans was born and bred in the country, but she had made a life in London for years. Her best friend’s wedding saw her returning to her Queensland hometown of Gum Tree Gully, a place of past trauma that she left behind and that included her childhood sweetheart, Connor Gunn.
The start of the book threw me a bit because I didn’t expect it to open 11 years ago! It was a good insight into the character dynamics while they were young though. Unfortunately, it abruptly stopped and we were told in the next few chapters that significant things happened to Sam between the Prologue and Chapter 1 ‘off screen’. I wish we were shown these events rather than just being told.
Time-jump aside, I loved the idea of ‘mature love’ between Sam and Connor. They were broken people with a shared dark past. They both failed in subsequent relationships and faced adversities. I did wish the flirting went a little bit deeper than the usual party lines and getting drunk together, but in the end it was so good to see them finally having a meaningful discussion. I was invested in their relationship.
This was my first Mandy Magro book, and it won’t be the last!
(Thanks to Harlequin Australia for a gifted copy in exchange for an honest review)
See my bookstagram review.
February 22, 2024
Mandy Magro is a prolific writer of Australian rural romance. Fans of her previous work will enjoy this novel, as it displays all her strengths. Newer readers will find this stand alone romance highly enjoyable, with a bit of substance to underpin a classic romance plot.
Many of Magro’s novels feature substantial, genuine problems which act as obstacles to the romance, giving the novels a sense of groundedness and substance. This one is no exception; indeed, it piles on the trauma and problems for the two leads with abandon.
Samantha left Gum Tree Gully as soon as she possibly could. She loved her idyllic upbringing, but a tragedy on the night of her high school graduation sends her running to London and a marriage that’s turning out to be a mistake. She’s avoided returning for nearly a decade, but now, just as the life she’s built is teetering, she’s obliged to return for her best friend’s wedding.
Her childhood friend, Connor, will be the best man, throwing the two of them together. Connor was also marked by the tragedy, has current problems to deal with, and is harbouring a secret from their childhood.
As Sam wrestles with a difficult return, her youthful attraction to Connor flares. But if she surrenders to it, will it make her life better – or worse, and more complicated?
This is a believable story about two people with a lot of trauma and a lot of problems. The problems are very believable, and the sorts of problems you’d expect mature adults to have. Sometimes romances include fairly infantile problems or obstacles, and one of the things I appreciate about Magro’s novels is how realistic this element is.
This is written in a style that makes for easy reading. The pages turn quickly, and most readers will find it enjoyable. Sam and Connor are empathetic and understandable characters who’ll engage most readers pretty quickly. Supporting characters, while less developed, are also strongly drawn and believable.
My one reservation about this novel is that the resolution happens far too quickly. Most of the novel is spent exploring and developing the problems that both Samantha and Connor have to deal with. This is done believably and well. But then everything is resolved in just a few pages. Although I kinda assume that romance novels will have nice tidy endings, this just seemed too quick and easy for the level of trauma the two leads had experienced.
Still, for most this will be a satisfying romance read, offering just the right combination of grounded and fantasy. It’s well written, and romance fans are likely to enjoy it.
You may also be interested in my reviews of other novels by Mandy Magro:
https://otherdreamsotherlives.home.bl...
https://otherdreamsotherlives.home.bl...
https://otherdreamsotherlives.home.bl...
https://otherdreamsotherlives.home.bl...
https://otherdreamsotherlives.home.bl...
https://otherdreamsotherlives.home.bl...
If you enjoyed this review, please visit www.otherdreamsotherlives.home.blog to read more.
Many of Magro’s novels feature substantial, genuine problems which act as obstacles to the romance, giving the novels a sense of groundedness and substance. This one is no exception; indeed, it piles on the trauma and problems for the two leads with abandon.
Samantha left Gum Tree Gully as soon as she possibly could. She loved her idyllic upbringing, but a tragedy on the night of her high school graduation sends her running to London and a marriage that’s turning out to be a mistake. She’s avoided returning for nearly a decade, but now, just as the life she’s built is teetering, she’s obliged to return for her best friend’s wedding.
Her childhood friend, Connor, will be the best man, throwing the two of them together. Connor was also marked by the tragedy, has current problems to deal with, and is harbouring a secret from their childhood.
As Sam wrestles with a difficult return, her youthful attraction to Connor flares. But if she surrenders to it, will it make her life better – or worse, and more complicated?
This is a believable story about two people with a lot of trauma and a lot of problems. The problems are very believable, and the sorts of problems you’d expect mature adults to have. Sometimes romances include fairly infantile problems or obstacles, and one of the things I appreciate about Magro’s novels is how realistic this element is.
This is written in a style that makes for easy reading. The pages turn quickly, and most readers will find it enjoyable. Sam and Connor are empathetic and understandable characters who’ll engage most readers pretty quickly. Supporting characters, while less developed, are also strongly drawn and believable.
My one reservation about this novel is that the resolution happens far too quickly. Most of the novel is spent exploring and developing the problems that both Samantha and Connor have to deal with. This is done believably and well. But then everything is resolved in just a few pages. Although I kinda assume that romance novels will have nice tidy endings, this just seemed too quick and easy for the level of trauma the two leads had experienced.
Still, for most this will be a satisfying romance read, offering just the right combination of grounded and fantasy. It’s well written, and romance fans are likely to enjoy it.
You may also be interested in my reviews of other novels by Mandy Magro:
https://otherdreamsotherlives.home.bl...
https://otherdreamsotherlives.home.bl...
https://otherdreamsotherlives.home.bl...
https://otherdreamsotherlives.home.bl...
https://otherdreamsotherlives.home.bl...
https://otherdreamsotherlives.home.bl...
If you enjoyed this review, please visit www.otherdreamsotherlives.home.blog to read more.
December 4, 2024
Four and a half stars.
Samantha Evans was born and raised in the Australian country area of Gum Tree Gully Queensland. But wrong decisions life and drastic circumstances took Sammie from her those she loved. It led her to flee to England. Since then, she has since made a successful business life in London. But when her best friend Shea is getting married and has asked Sammie to be maid of honour, Sammie realises she has no choice but to return temporarily to the town she vowed never to return to. But this is Shea, her dearest friend in the world, so the decision to return to Australia is a no brainer. The trouble is the upcoming wedding of Shea and Jack will mean Sammie is put in close contact with Connor Gunn and there is a history between them that will be hard to deal with.
Connor Gunn has always loved Sammie but there are several tragic circumstances that prevent them ever being together. It is far more than just living on two different sides of the world. Is there any hope for them or will the past destroy any chance of a permanent relationship between them?
I really/ liked Sammie and Connor, and also Shea and Jack. Setting comes across great. You could really picture the landscape and feel the heat. I loved the Aussie expressions, humour and banter. This is a really interesting read. It is a story of friendship, family, grief, tragedy, plus choices and their consequences. This story involved me from start to finish. It is heartbreaking in parts but funny in others.
Another great Aussie rural read. Some things are a tad predictable and a little neatly tied up at the end but still a hugely engaging read. I loved it as I have others by books by this author,
Samantha Evans was born and raised in the Australian country area of Gum Tree Gully Queensland. But wrong decisions life and drastic circumstances took Sammie from her those she loved. It led her to flee to England. Since then, she has since made a successful business life in London. But when her best friend Shea is getting married and has asked Sammie to be maid of honour, Sammie realises she has no choice but to return temporarily to the town she vowed never to return to. But this is Shea, her dearest friend in the world, so the decision to return to Australia is a no brainer. The trouble is the upcoming wedding of Shea and Jack will mean Sammie is put in close contact with Connor Gunn and there is a history between them that will be hard to deal with.
Connor Gunn has always loved Sammie but there are several tragic circumstances that prevent them ever being together. It is far more than just living on two different sides of the world. Is there any hope for them or will the past destroy any chance of a permanent relationship between them?
I really/ liked Sammie and Connor, and also Shea and Jack. Setting comes across great. You could really picture the landscape and feel the heat. I loved the Aussie expressions, humour and banter. This is a really interesting read. It is a story of friendship, family, grief, tragedy, plus choices and their consequences. This story involved me from start to finish. It is heartbreaking in parts but funny in others.
Another great Aussie rural read. Some things are a tad predictable and a little neatly tied up at the end but still a hugely engaging read. I loved it as I have others by books by this author,
January 12, 2024
I was fortunate enough to be sent a copy of this by HarperCollins Australia, Unfortunately I didn't connect with this book. Gum Tree Gully is not my usual genre of book and I'm aware that I'm not necessarily the intended audience for this. That being said I had a few issues with the craft and pacing of this story.
Moments that were set up to be impactful, or shocking reveals, were dragged out over pages and referred to with different descriptors and names in what I can only assume was an attempt to intrigue the reader. This was done at the expense of main character Samantha Evans ever really experiencing or participating in personal and mental healing.
I also found the dialogue to be very clunky. A lot of real world pauses and circling back to ideas, even saying goodbye to the same person three times as you try to leave a conversation, were used. This created pointless moments of speech that could have been used to create meaningful, punchy dialogue, that works better for the page, rather than trying to emulate real life.
There were also a few moments in the lead up to the end of the book that didn't make sense, seemed to lack continuity and clarification, and were extremely rushed to get to the conclusion. The conflict between the two main characters happened so late in the book that it was made almost redundant by gow quickly it all had to be wrapped up.
This genre might interest other people, however, it was not for me.
Moments that were set up to be impactful, or shocking reveals, were dragged out over pages and referred to with different descriptors and names in what I can only assume was an attempt to intrigue the reader. This was done at the expense of main character Samantha Evans ever really experiencing or participating in personal and mental healing.
I also found the dialogue to be very clunky. A lot of real world pauses and circling back to ideas, even saying goodbye to the same person three times as you try to leave a conversation, were used. This created pointless moments of speech that could have been used to create meaningful, punchy dialogue, that works better for the page, rather than trying to emulate real life.
There were also a few moments in the lead up to the end of the book that didn't make sense, seemed to lack continuity and clarification, and were extremely rushed to get to the conclusion. The conflict between the two main characters happened so late in the book that it was made almost redundant by gow quickly it all had to be wrapped up.
This genre might interest other people, however, it was not for me.
February 23, 2024
Good Afternoon Everyone ......I finished a fabulous book Gum Tree Gully by Mandy Magro .this story is about Samantha ,Shea her best friend , Connor and Jack all childhood friends who grew up In Gum Tree Gully ..until tragedy sends Samantha running away to London to start her own business but when Shea wants her to return to Gum Tree Gully to be her maid of honour she can't refuse ........a lot of things have happened in the years Samantha has been away ..........this is heartbreaking ....heartwarming ....some hidden secrets from years before I can't say anything more so unputdownable ......you know what to do .........loved this book ..........enjoy..😀
October 17, 2023
After a tragedy Samantha has moved on from the country life and into the city. When her best friend Shea asks Samantha to be her maid of honour, Samantha says yes of course but that means returning to the place where what happened continues to haunt her. Connor is still there and the quiet country life suits him. Will they be able to overcome there pasts? Mandy Magro has done it again and written a brilliant page turner! I couldn't get enough of this story of facing your fears and letting go of what can't be changed. I loved all the characters and the settings. The romance is so outback and I loved every minute. I would love a book with Shea and Jack's story next.
December 13, 2023
Gum Tree Gully by Mandy Magro
Rural Romance | Australian Author
-Samantha returns home from London, leaving behind her business and ex-husband. In Gum Tree Gully, Sam is reunited her best friend and childhood sweetheart, Connor. She is also reunited with her love from the country.
- I'm officially on the Mandy Magro train! And I don't want to get off any time soon. This was an incredible rural romance novel that captures the true identify of being an Aussie. I love the development between Sam and Connor. There were multiple issues in the book which will appeal to most readers. I would read another Mandy Magro book in a heartbeat.
4/5
Rural Romance | Australian Author
-Samantha returns home from London, leaving behind her business and ex-husband. In Gum Tree Gully, Sam is reunited her best friend and childhood sweetheart, Connor. She is also reunited with her love from the country.
- I'm officially on the Mandy Magro train! And I don't want to get off any time soon. This was an incredible rural romance novel that captures the true identify of being an Aussie. I love the development between Sam and Connor. There were multiple issues in the book which will appeal to most readers. I would read another Mandy Magro book in a heartbeat.
4/5
April 22, 2025
Repetitive information.
I didn’t really take to Sam, but the main male character was good.
I preferred Sam’s ‘best’ friend, the so called best friend that Sam hadn’t been in contact with, not even when her mother died, Sam’s a great friend!
Very predictable story.
I normally really enjoy rural/country stories, but maybe I was in wrong head space for this book at this time.
I didn’t really take to Sam, but the main male character was good.
I preferred Sam’s ‘best’ friend, the so called best friend that Sam hadn’t been in contact with, not even when her mother died, Sam’s a great friend!
Very predictable story.
I normally really enjoy rural/country stories, but maybe I was in wrong head space for this book at this time.
May 5, 2024
Not gonna lie, this book started out quite slow for me. However, when I got to about chapter 4 it started to pick up. I then couldn’t put the book down! I had to finish reading to find out what happened with these two. I loved the character development, and the whole storyline.
November 21, 2024
Predictable story, lots of repetition in the writing. Long winded story getting to the conclusion and it was all wrapped up in a few pages. Nice enough read but for me I found it frustrating to read.
November 22, 2023
Lots and lots of rewriting the same thing. I got really sick of the repetition.
Story line itself was ok. Characters were ok but dumb - ohh no I could not possibly ever marry again…. 😳
Story line itself was ok. Characters were ok but dumb - ohh no I could not possibly ever marry again…. 😳
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