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The Road Home
Lara Turner has a boyfriend, a nice house in the city and a chance at a big promotion. So when her brother calls asking her to come home, she hesitates. Can she face the memories that inhabit the beloved place of her childhood? And how does she feel with the news it's to be sold? Could she be the answer to saving the family farm?
Jack Morgan has memories of his own to contend with. A falling out with his family and a bitter end to a past relationship have left a big chip on his shoulder. When his best mate's beautiful sister arrives on the scene, he finds himself deeply conflicted. Lara and Jack have a powerful attraction but are constantly at odds. Will their love of the same land keep them apart, or grow into a love of a different kind?
Jack Morgan has memories of his own to contend with. A falling out with his family and a bitter end to a past relationship have left a big chip on his shoulder. When his best mate's beautiful sister arrives on the scene, he finds himself deeply conflicted. Lara and Jack have a powerful attraction but are constantly at odds. Will their love of the same land keep them apart, or grow into a love of a different kind?
358 pages, Paperback
First published March 12, 2012
14 people are currently reading
454 people want to read
About the author
Fiona Palmer
26 books314 followersBestselling rural author of books set in outback Western Australia. Small communities, farming, great aussie characters and mother nature. Also writes YA.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews
December 16, 2016
Growing up on their parents farm Erindale in Western Australia Lara and Noah Turner had the best childhood. But Lara's mum wanted more for her daughter and insisted Lara be sent to a boarding school whilst Noah worked on the farm.
At every opportunity Lara would drive from Perth back to the farm to catch up with her family. Then suddenly something terrible happened and Lara couldn't face going back. Dealing with all her childhood memories is more than she can manage.
Then one day Lara gets a telephone call from Noah and he wants her to visit for the weekend. At first Lara isn't too keen on returning to the farm, but it seemed Noah had something important he wanted to talk to her about. And important it was, in fact if Lara accepted what her brother was offering would change her life forever, but is Lara ready to change her life?
I totally enjoyed this book from start to finish. From the characters to the beautifully written descriptions of the country. The Road home was an uplifting story and one in which I have no hesitation in highly recommending.
At every opportunity Lara would drive from Perth back to the farm to catch up with her family. Then suddenly something terrible happened and Lara couldn't face going back. Dealing with all her childhood memories is more than she can manage.
Then one day Lara gets a telephone call from Noah and he wants her to visit for the weekend. At first Lara isn't too keen on returning to the farm, but it seemed Noah had something important he wanted to talk to her about. And important it was, in fact if Lara accepted what her brother was offering would change her life forever, but is Lara ready to change her life?
I totally enjoyed this book from start to finish. From the characters to the beautifully written descriptions of the country. The Road home was an uplifting story and one in which I have no hesitation in highly recommending.
April 6, 2012
Lara and Noah Turner had a wonderful childhood, growing up on their parents’ farm, ‘Erindale’ in Western Australia. They both loved farm life, and couldn’t imagine anything else. But Lara’s Mum was adamant they wanted more for Lara, and she was forced to go to Perth to boarding school, to study and make something special of herself. All the while, Noah got to remain at the farm, and go to the local school.
And so she settled into Perth, and began to do what her parents wished for her. She would drive back to the farm in her faithful Commodore every so often to visit, and always had a great time catching up with the family. But when tragedy struck, grief and devastation were part of her life, and she couldn’t go back to the farm...the memories were too much to handle.
But when Noah rang her in the city and asked her to visit for the weekend, as he needed to talk to her, she hesitated, but after a recent break with a boyfriend, she decided it was time. She wanted to go home to the place of her childhood.
On arrival at ‘Erindale’, shearing was in full swing, so she waited until Noah was free. In the meantime she met Noah’s best mate, Jack Morgan, a Kiwi with bitter memories of the falling out with his family, and the loss of his family farm in New Zealand. To say he had a chip on his shoulder was an understatement!
The proposition from Noah regarding ‘Erindale’ lead to Lara changing her career path, a decision she was unsure on, but once it was made, she felt much happier than she had in a long time. It also caused friction and conflict between Jack and Lara, although she wasn’t sure about the ‘why’. They seemed to have a powerful attraction toward each other, but were forever at odds....
The indepth tales of the neighbours, the dramas of farming life, the problems, be they large or small, the friendliness of the locals, the love and healing qualities of the land, the magnificent scenery throughout the bush, and the amazing sunsets were all part of this book, and at times, I felt like I was actually there, viewing the sunset myself, or relaxing after a hard day with a welcome beer, while perched in the back of the ute!
A very enjoyable read, definitely recommended.
And so she settled into Perth, and began to do what her parents wished for her. She would drive back to the farm in her faithful Commodore every so often to visit, and always had a great time catching up with the family. But when tragedy struck, grief and devastation were part of her life, and she couldn’t go back to the farm...the memories were too much to handle.
But when Noah rang her in the city and asked her to visit for the weekend, as he needed to talk to her, she hesitated, but after a recent break with a boyfriend, she decided it was time. She wanted to go home to the place of her childhood.
On arrival at ‘Erindale’, shearing was in full swing, so she waited until Noah was free. In the meantime she met Noah’s best mate, Jack Morgan, a Kiwi with bitter memories of the falling out with his family, and the loss of his family farm in New Zealand. To say he had a chip on his shoulder was an understatement!
The proposition from Noah regarding ‘Erindale’ lead to Lara changing her career path, a decision she was unsure on, but once it was made, she felt much happier than she had in a long time. It also caused friction and conflict between Jack and Lara, although she wasn’t sure about the ‘why’. They seemed to have a powerful attraction toward each other, but were forever at odds....
The indepth tales of the neighbours, the dramas of farming life, the problems, be they large or small, the friendliness of the locals, the love and healing qualities of the land, the magnificent scenery throughout the bush, and the amazing sunsets were all part of this book, and at times, I felt like I was actually there, viewing the sunset myself, or relaxing after a hard day with a welcome beer, while perched in the back of the ute!
A very enjoyable read, definitely recommended.
December 11, 2025
Oh this was perfect for summer. five stars and they're all for nostalgia.
It's about a farm fam. The daughter is sent to boarding school to become an accountant in the city, the parents die in a car/train crash, so the son runs the farm. Except he's getting married, wants to sell, and give it to his best mate, Jack. Only for Lara, the daughter, to go nahnahnahnahnahnahnah. Lemme have a go.
The whole farm, sheep dogs, seeding, elders caps, sunburn, tractors, smoko, pub, boats was so nostalgic. I don't think I have the right to claim it as so - I'm sent inside each time I go to the farm bc my eyes seal shut with hayfever - but it felt mine on behalf of my family nonetheless.
and I think I'm learning that aussie books hit a soft spot for me bc it feels so esoteric.
Loved Lara's character (hooray for independent, determined, logical women who are still friendly and loving and make mistakes!). Noah's (the brother) whole sheeshkabang was very nuh-uh for me... Imagine marrying someone after they hid their gambling addiction from you? Couldn't do it. Can't imagine how Amanda did. Lara's friends seemed LOVELY and they each had their own lil personalities and lives and character arcs. Jolly well done.
And then there was Jack. I mean- I much preferred Trent tbh, but maybe Lara was just a bit more into the dark and mysterious/chip on my shoulder sorta guy. I don't really rate the romance, mainly for the fact that he wasn't even that nice to her. Like- yeah, okay, he's an ambo, and he's an amazing friend to your brother, and he's good with kids, but is he even good with you? How are you attracted to someone you don't even have a connection with?
ANYWHO - the other reason was because it was about 300 pages of him standing there watching stubbornly as she struggled and didn't ask him for help, and then within less than two pages they went from chatting properly for the first time to full on sex in the tray of the ute, and it was a bit... hm. I feel lately as though books and movies don't seem to execute the pay off in a way that is deserving of the grand anticipation. and, honestly, there wasn't much anticipation in this one which I'm not upset about because there was so much enjoyably written stuff about Noah, and Trent and her problems on the farm and waterskiing and idk - i'd read it more for the vibes than the romance, and the vibes were five star.
Well-paced, well-written, loved the characters, LOVED the setting, jolly good time. Although - will say - currently craving a summer i turned pretty reread, but i won't because it would be purely for vibes, not substance, and i'd be disappointed. This one did not disappoint however!
It's about a farm fam. The daughter is sent to boarding school to become an accountant in the city, the parents die in a car/train crash, so the son runs the farm. Except he's getting married, wants to sell, and give it to his best mate, Jack. Only for Lara, the daughter, to go nahnahnahnahnahnahnah. Lemme have a go.
The whole farm, sheep dogs, seeding, elders caps, sunburn, tractors, smoko, pub, boats was so nostalgic. I don't think I have the right to claim it as so - I'm sent inside each time I go to the farm bc my eyes seal shut with hayfever - but it felt mine on behalf of my family nonetheless.
and I think I'm learning that aussie books hit a soft spot for me bc it feels so esoteric.
Loved Lara's character (hooray for independent, determined, logical women who are still friendly and loving and make mistakes!). Noah's (the brother) whole sheeshkabang was very nuh-uh for me... Imagine marrying someone after they hid their gambling addiction from you? Couldn't do it. Can't imagine how Amanda did. Lara's friends seemed LOVELY and they each had their own lil personalities and lives and character arcs. Jolly well done.
And then there was Jack. I mean- I much preferred Trent tbh, but maybe Lara was just a bit more into the dark and mysterious/chip on my shoulder sorta guy. I don't really rate the romance, mainly for the fact that he wasn't even that nice to her. Like- yeah, okay, he's an ambo, and he's an amazing friend to your brother, and he's good with kids, but is he even good with you? How are you attracted to someone you don't even have a connection with?
ANYWHO - the other reason was because it was about 300 pages of him standing there watching stubbornly as she struggled and didn't ask him for help, and then within less than two pages they went from chatting properly for the first time to full on sex in the tray of the ute, and it was a bit... hm. I feel lately as though books and movies don't seem to execute the pay off in a way that is deserving of the grand anticipation. and, honestly, there wasn't much anticipation in this one which I'm not upset about because there was so much enjoyably written stuff about Noah, and Trent and her problems on the farm and waterskiing and idk - i'd read it more for the vibes than the romance, and the vibes were five star.
Well-paced, well-written, loved the characters, LOVED the setting, jolly good time. Although - will say - currently craving a summer i turned pretty reread, but i won't because it would be purely for vibes, not substance, and i'd be disappointed. This one did not disappoint however!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 22, 2012
The Road Home is an enjoyable story about love – love for family, for the land and for the right guy. After the tragic death of her parents, Lara couldn’t bear to return to the family farm and remained in the city, fulfilling her parents wish to succeed in her career as a financial planner. But when her brother reveals his intent to sell the farm Lara is horrified and at a crossroads in her own life, decides to return home to run it herself.
Fiona Palmer’s familiarity with farming in country Western Australia gives The Road Home a wonderful sense of authenticity. From the sweat and smell of the shearing shed to the hard yakka of repairing property fences, the reader gets an idea of what farming in this region is all about. Life on a farm might be hard work but it also has it’s compensations for those who love it, like the stunning sunsets Lara witnesses and the sense of accomplishment from achieving a difficult task. I think Palmer’s own passion for the land bleeds into the story, her descriptions are vivid and honest, just as her characters are.
I found Lara an admirable heroine, once she sets her mind to something she is determined to see it through with the minimum of fuss. Taking on the farm after more than a decades absence was a brave decision and I thought her motivation was credible though I would not have found the story as convincing if Lara didn’t have prior experience with the way of life.
Unusually, Lara’s love interest in The Road Home, is not the Australian cowboy I was expecting but a Kiwi (ie from New Zealand). Jack is an appealing character (a washboard stomach and manly muscles will do it for me every time), with a tragic history of his own. Their romance has the requisite misunderstandings and obstacles but what I most appreciated about the relationship between Lara and Jack was that the author resisted making Jack Lara’s saviour, and Lara’s independence is not compromised by her desire for Jack.
The Road Home is distinctly Australian, from the description of the land to the genuine dialogue that doesn’t shy away from the everyday colloquialisms of our language. I found the novel well written and a quick and engaging read.
The third contemporary rural romance to be published from Fiona Palmer, The Road Home is a heartwarming and enjoyable story. Though this is the first of her books I have read it, but it won’t be the last.
Fiona Palmer’s familiarity with farming in country Western Australia gives The Road Home a wonderful sense of authenticity. From the sweat and smell of the shearing shed to the hard yakka of repairing property fences, the reader gets an idea of what farming in this region is all about. Life on a farm might be hard work but it also has it’s compensations for those who love it, like the stunning sunsets Lara witnesses and the sense of accomplishment from achieving a difficult task. I think Palmer’s own passion for the land bleeds into the story, her descriptions are vivid and honest, just as her characters are.
I found Lara an admirable heroine, once she sets her mind to something she is determined to see it through with the minimum of fuss. Taking on the farm after more than a decades absence was a brave decision and I thought her motivation was credible though I would not have found the story as convincing if Lara didn’t have prior experience with the way of life.
Unusually, Lara’s love interest in The Road Home, is not the Australian cowboy I was expecting but a Kiwi (ie from New Zealand). Jack is an appealing character (a washboard stomach and manly muscles will do it for me every time), with a tragic history of his own. Their romance has the requisite misunderstandings and obstacles but what I most appreciated about the relationship between Lara and Jack was that the author resisted making Jack Lara’s saviour, and Lara’s independence is not compromised by her desire for Jack.
The Road Home is distinctly Australian, from the description of the land to the genuine dialogue that doesn’t shy away from the everyday colloquialisms of our language. I found the novel well written and a quick and engaging read.
The third contemporary rural romance to be published from Fiona Palmer, The Road Home is a heartwarming and enjoyable story. Though this is the first of her books I have read it, but it won’t be the last.
April 1, 2012
Lara Turner is a country girl at heart and after leaving behind the city where she’s lived most of her life, she takes the road home to Erindale, her family farm. Leaving behind a lying boyfriend and a corporate promotion, Lara takes up the challenge of running Erindale to keep the farm in the family. Until then, her brother Noah has been working the land, but now he is getting married he will be moving into his fiancé’s home to follow his dream of working with cattle.
Lara is hesitant to take on the huge responsibility of running a farm, but determined to keep her family’s legacy and to succeed she gets stuck into the daily grind of rural living.
Noah’s best mate Jack throws a spanner into the works, at first there’s an obvious attraction between the two of them but once Lara officially takes over the farm his attitude towards her cools and she’s confused by his change of heart. Lara doesn’t want to be distracted by men, but there’s something about the handsome brooding kiwi that makes her heart race. The feeling is mutual, but Jack has his own issues that keep him at a distance from Lara. Lara is a fantastic Aussie heroine- she’s smart, hard-working and has an upfront manner which makes her fun and likeable. Jack’s mood changes were underlined by some series issues in his past that he hadn’t come to terms with.
There’s a lot happening in The Road Home from farming dilemmas to family conflict and then the personal struggles of each of the characters in the story and this makes for compelling reading. Despite all the plot twists and turns, the characters are well developed and as the story progresses I could understand each of their conflicts as well as see their growth.
The Road Home is a great addition to your rural lit shelf if you love strong characters and beautiful Aussie landscapes.
Lara is hesitant to take on the huge responsibility of running a farm, but determined to keep her family’s legacy and to succeed she gets stuck into the daily grind of rural living.
Noah’s best mate Jack throws a spanner into the works, at first there’s an obvious attraction between the two of them but once Lara officially takes over the farm his attitude towards her cools and she’s confused by his change of heart. Lara doesn’t want to be distracted by men, but there’s something about the handsome brooding kiwi that makes her heart race. The feeling is mutual, but Jack has his own issues that keep him at a distance from Lara. Lara is a fantastic Aussie heroine- she’s smart, hard-working and has an upfront manner which makes her fun and likeable. Jack’s mood changes were underlined by some series issues in his past that he hadn’t come to terms with.
There’s a lot happening in The Road Home from farming dilemmas to family conflict and then the personal struggles of each of the characters in the story and this makes for compelling reading. Despite all the plot twists and turns, the characters are well developed and as the story progresses I could understand each of their conflicts as well as see their growth.
The Road Home is a great addition to your rural lit shelf if you love strong characters and beautiful Aussie landscapes.
September 2, 2015
I loved Lara's story. To know what she wanted and then to stick st it despite expectations of failure, just showed what a strong gutsy girl she is. The development of her relationship with Jack was really sweet. Both going through so much but see so much in each other. It didn't seem predictable in some ways which is why i think i enjoyed it even more.Read it everyone.
March 23, 2012
I'm new to Rural Romance but I fell in love with this book, and this author and I can't wait to see what she writes next
My full thoughts are over here http://bookgirl.beautyandlace.net/the...
My full thoughts are over here http://bookgirl.beautyandlace.net/the...
February 16, 2022
This was a classic Australian country romance novel that was easy to pick up and consume in just a few sittings. It had all the ingredients that people fond of this genre love to see and was fairly well-balanced in proportion and pace of story.
The language was simple, lending to its ease, and the writing was smooth and colloquial first person. There were some occasions early on where I felt a little disengaged due to the simplicity but this faded.
I didn't notice any regressive undertones regarding women, however the agenda of a misunderstood city girl's plight could sound quite judgemental at times.
This isn't normally my type of book and genre but think that it certainly has a place and following for a reason, and found myself enjoying the change of scenery and lighter read in these strenuous and uncertain times.
The language was simple, lending to its ease, and the writing was smooth and colloquial first person. There were some occasions early on where I felt a little disengaged due to the simplicity but this faded.
I didn't notice any regressive undertones regarding women, however the agenda of a misunderstood city girl's plight could sound quite judgemental at times.
This isn't normally my type of book and genre but think that it certainly has a place and following for a reason, and found myself enjoying the change of scenery and lighter read in these strenuous and uncertain times.
March 13, 2017
This was SO Aussie, to the point of being over done.
Whilst I can appreciate the familiarity that was the landscapes, townsfolk, and farming situations; it was like every single damn Aussie thing that could happen, did happen.
Lara's parents wanted more for their daughter, shipping her off to boarding school in Perth as a teen. After their deaths, the farm was left to her brother Noah. Now getting married, Noah no longer wants the family farm. Lara decides she wants it.
There's the usual nosy townsfolk, the unfavorable derro, hooch in the back paddock, lightening fires, broken down tractors, water skiing and of course Noah's best friend, Jack.
I did enjoy this, it just felt like there were too many things going on at once.
Whilst I can appreciate the familiarity that was the landscapes, townsfolk, and farming situations; it was like every single damn Aussie thing that could happen, did happen.
Lara's parents wanted more for their daughter, shipping her off to boarding school in Perth as a teen. After their deaths, the farm was left to her brother Noah. Now getting married, Noah no longer wants the family farm. Lara decides she wants it.
There's the usual nosy townsfolk, the unfavorable derro, hooch in the back paddock, lightening fires, broken down tractors, water skiing and of course Noah's best friend, Jack.
I did enjoy this, it just felt like there were too many things going on at once.
October 10, 2025
Another fantastic country romance read by Fiona Palmer.
Lara Turner is called home to the farm for the weekend from her city job, apartment, and boyfriend to be told that her brother wants out, and is selling the family property. Although there are painful memories there, it is also her childhood home with plenty of happy memories.
Jack Turner has not so good memories of his own which made him leave his homeland of New Zealand for the Australian outback. When his best mate's sister turns up he has a strong attraction to her, but fights it all the way as he has been hurt previously.
Can they fight their past to forge ahead with a future together, or will there be too many obstacles in the way?
Lara Turner is called home to the farm for the weekend from her city job, apartment, and boyfriend to be told that her brother wants out, and is selling the family property. Although there are painful memories there, it is also her childhood home with plenty of happy memories.
Jack Turner has not so good memories of his own which made him leave his homeland of New Zealand for the Australian outback. When his best mate's sister turns up he has a strong attraction to her, but fights it all the way as he has been hurt previously.
Can they fight their past to forge ahead with a future together, or will there be too many obstacles in the way?
September 2, 2023
Wow. Another fantastic read by Fiona. Have read many of her books and they are all fantastic. This story from cover to cover had you guessing. The love story betwee. Jack and Lara just keeps you enthralled as to what is going to happen. The relationship between farmers and family was also very exciting. Loved the ending and hope you all enjoy as I did.
March 18, 2018
This wasn't as good as others I've read by this author but it was still a nice easy read with a predictable storyline. I read the bulk of it sitting in my hammock with a glass or two of wine on a beautiful sunny Sunday arvo.
May 16, 2023
I loved how Lara stood up for what she believed in, didn't take any crap from anyone and showed everyone that she could achieve what she set out to achieve.
Thank you Fiona. I enjoyed reading this book.
Thank you Fiona. I enjoyed reading this book.
November 2, 2018
DNF. Another boring cliche-ique book. Badly written too.
October 7, 2019
Difficult to get into a the start but great at the end. Great holiday read.
April 28, 2012
Lara Turner grew up on a farm in rural Western Australia until she went to high school. Although she wanted to stay on the farm, her parents had other plans for their girl and she went to the city for boarding school, stayed for university and then got herself a job with a finance company. When her parents died, their assets were split between Lara and her brother Noah, with Noah getting the farm and Lara getting the Perth house. Lara worked in the city for a couple of years, returning home rarely after the loss of her parents until Noah calls her and asks her to come down so he can talk to her.
Noah wants to sell the farm. He’s getting married and his father-in-law to be has offered him their cattle farm, which is the sort of farm Noah wants to run. He despises sheep, but he has to run them on the family property in order to balance the books. Lara is devastated when Noah confesses he wants to sell – this is her family home. She decides that she wants to sell the Perth house and buy Noah out of the farm and make a go of it herself. She knows that she has to try and save the farm, to keep it in their family. Lara knows it’s not going to be easy – things have been hard in recent years and there’s no money to hire any help. Lara will have to be mostly going it alone, trying to get everything done on time and the bills paid. This proves to be harder than she first imagined when there’s a few discrepancies with large sums of money.
Jack Morgan is one of Noah’s best mates. He’s a Kiwi who came over to work in Australia and stayed. He works on a nearby farm but he often helps out and Noah has asked him to keep an eye on Lara now that Noah is off to his future in-laws. Jack and Lara have a simmering attraction between them but Lara is surprised by Jack’s brusque manner and standoffishness when she moves back to the farm. Previously he’d been quite…friendly. She wonders exactly what the chip on his shoulder is all about and why it seems to be directed solely at her.
The Road Home is a comforting novel that embraces the land and finding your true home. Lara’s a well developed character – when we meet her, she’s suitably ‘citified’, working in Perth as a financial planner, dressing in beautiful clothes with her nails done. When her brother recalls her to the family farm for a chat – a place that has become somewhere Lara has visited rarely since the death of her parents – she’s also reeling from a love affair gone wrong. She finds herself dissatisfied with her job and the fact that she was made to leave the farm for a better education, something her mother always rued that she herself didn’t complete before moving to the farm. It seems like the stars are all aligning for Lara – Noah wants to sell and she has discovered that she’s ready to move back home and farm the land herself.
She knows it isn’t going to be easy and she’s lucky that most of the local community are quite supportive. She expected support from her brother’s friend Jack but instead she gets some snide remarks and hostility. Lara is confused but doubly determined to prove herself and make people see that she isn’t just some city blow in – she belongs here. The evolution of Lara from well groomed 9-5 working girl to jeans-and-boots farm girl isn’t just physical one. She relaxes, she enjoys her challenges, even when things aren’t exactly going right for her, what she is doing still feels right inside. She is content, settled within herself now that she is back ‘home’. She also begins to deal with her parents death in a way that she couldn’t whilst she was still living in the city.
Jack is very enjoyable character and I really loved the ‘differences’ in him – his Kiwi heritage and Maori tats, his gentle nature. He has his reasons for being a bit short with Lara that she isn’t privy to but the reader is and his attitude, whilst a little bit childish is also understandable. I thought they had good chemistry and the pacing of the evolution of their relationship was well done. No instalove here, just a good gentle build-up of attraction and feelings, even when there’s a little adversity in there too!
The Road Home is a lovely addition to the genre of rural lit that is growing in popularity enormously in Australia of late. The characters are strong and developed, from the main ones down to the smallest supporting ones and the passion for the land shines through and gives a very good indication of just what it might be like to try and make a go of farming. It’s the first book I’ve read by Fiona Palmer but she has two previous novels that I’ll be adding to my TBR list.
Noah wants to sell the farm. He’s getting married and his father-in-law to be has offered him their cattle farm, which is the sort of farm Noah wants to run. He despises sheep, but he has to run them on the family property in order to balance the books. Lara is devastated when Noah confesses he wants to sell – this is her family home. She decides that she wants to sell the Perth house and buy Noah out of the farm and make a go of it herself. She knows that she has to try and save the farm, to keep it in their family. Lara knows it’s not going to be easy – things have been hard in recent years and there’s no money to hire any help. Lara will have to be mostly going it alone, trying to get everything done on time and the bills paid. This proves to be harder than she first imagined when there’s a few discrepancies with large sums of money.
Jack Morgan is one of Noah’s best mates. He’s a Kiwi who came over to work in Australia and stayed. He works on a nearby farm but he often helps out and Noah has asked him to keep an eye on Lara now that Noah is off to his future in-laws. Jack and Lara have a simmering attraction between them but Lara is surprised by Jack’s brusque manner and standoffishness when she moves back to the farm. Previously he’d been quite…friendly. She wonders exactly what the chip on his shoulder is all about and why it seems to be directed solely at her.
The Road Home is a comforting novel that embraces the land and finding your true home. Lara’s a well developed character – when we meet her, she’s suitably ‘citified’, working in Perth as a financial planner, dressing in beautiful clothes with her nails done. When her brother recalls her to the family farm for a chat – a place that has become somewhere Lara has visited rarely since the death of her parents – she’s also reeling from a love affair gone wrong. She finds herself dissatisfied with her job and the fact that she was made to leave the farm for a better education, something her mother always rued that she herself didn’t complete before moving to the farm. It seems like the stars are all aligning for Lara – Noah wants to sell and she has discovered that she’s ready to move back home and farm the land herself.
She knows it isn’t going to be easy and she’s lucky that most of the local community are quite supportive. She expected support from her brother’s friend Jack but instead she gets some snide remarks and hostility. Lara is confused but doubly determined to prove herself and make people see that she isn’t just some city blow in – she belongs here. The evolution of Lara from well groomed 9-5 working girl to jeans-and-boots farm girl isn’t just physical one. She relaxes, she enjoys her challenges, even when things aren’t exactly going right for her, what she is doing still feels right inside. She is content, settled within herself now that she is back ‘home’. She also begins to deal with her parents death in a way that she couldn’t whilst she was still living in the city.
Jack is very enjoyable character and I really loved the ‘differences’ in him – his Kiwi heritage and Maori tats, his gentle nature. He has his reasons for being a bit short with Lara that she isn’t privy to but the reader is and his attitude, whilst a little bit childish is also understandable. I thought they had good chemistry and the pacing of the evolution of their relationship was well done. No instalove here, just a good gentle build-up of attraction and feelings, even when there’s a little adversity in there too!
The Road Home is a lovely addition to the genre of rural lit that is growing in popularity enormously in Australia of late. The characters are strong and developed, from the main ones down to the smallest supporting ones and the passion for the land shines through and gives a very good indication of just what it might be like to try and make a go of farming. It’s the first book I’ve read by Fiona Palmer but she has two previous novels that I’ll be adding to my TBR list.
September 24, 2021
A beautiful story of what you’ve worked so hard towards isn’t necessarily what you want. You can always change your mind. Really enjoyed this story 💜💜
November 14, 2015
The Road Home to the family farm beckons city girl Lara Turner, when out of the blue her brother Noah, who has been running the farm decides to sell up. Lara cannot bear to see her beloved Erindale, which is all that is left of her parents who passed away tragically, fall into new hands. Torn between her high climbing city job and her love for the family farm, Lara decides to cut her losses and have a go at running the fledgling family property. It is tough work for Lara, doing it on her own after years away from the farming life. She also encounters opposition from local townsfolk , who believe that Lara is incapable of handling the farm singlehandedly. When Lara meets her brother’s best mate Jack Morgan, things begin to look up. However, Jack possesses some bitter memories from his past relationships, which may derail his newfound attraction to Lara. Lara and Jack find they must navigate their love for the land and each other, if they are to find happiness.
The Road Home is essentially a novel about love for the land and each other. It is a patently Aussie romance story from rural fiction powerhouse, Fiona Palmer. Palmer is a West Australian author who I greatly admire and The Road Home did not disappoint - I loved it! As I have come to expect from Fiona Palmer, her books and this one a jam packed full of wonderfully vivid descriptions of life on the land. In particular, I love Palmer’s descriptions of the daily grind on the farm, which as a non rural dweller I find so interesting to read. This is matched with authentic, typically Australian dialogue, which made the story flow nicely. What I also enjoyed about The Road Home, was the romance side, the male lead was very different to the usual mould featured in many rural fictions titles. Jack, hailing from New Zealand, with a troubled past, added a great twist to the love interest element of the novel. On the whole Palmer impressed me with the ground she covers in this novel, from the family conflicts, farming life, love dramas and the back story featuring the issue of gambling.
The Road Home is another great Aussie outback story from Fiona Palmer, an author who is one of the top writers in the rural romance fiction genre. The Road Home comes highly recommended from one happy reader.
The Road Home is essentially a novel about love for the land and each other. It is a patently Aussie romance story from rural fiction powerhouse, Fiona Palmer. Palmer is a West Australian author who I greatly admire and The Road Home did not disappoint - I loved it! As I have come to expect from Fiona Palmer, her books and this one a jam packed full of wonderfully vivid descriptions of life on the land. In particular, I love Palmer’s descriptions of the daily grind on the farm, which as a non rural dweller I find so interesting to read. This is matched with authentic, typically Australian dialogue, which made the story flow nicely. What I also enjoyed about The Road Home, was the romance side, the male lead was very different to the usual mould featured in many rural fictions titles. Jack, hailing from New Zealand, with a troubled past, added a great twist to the love interest element of the novel. On the whole Palmer impressed me with the ground she covers in this novel, from the family conflicts, farming life, love dramas and the back story featuring the issue of gambling.
The Road Home is another great Aussie outback story from Fiona Palmer, an author who is one of the top writers in the rural romance fiction genre. The Road Home comes highly recommended from one happy reader.
March 18, 2016
I thought this book was great I have enjoyed reading books about rural Australia and life living on the farm. This book is about a sister and brother who grew up on Erindale a family farm in Western Australia. Lara is sent to Perth to gain an education while her brother Noah is raised to work on the farm.
Their parents had died six years before and the farm was left to the both of them. Her brother calls her one day to tell her he want to sell the farm as he can not run the farm anymore as he is getting Married to Amanda and plans to move with her to her family farm. Torn between her city job, life Lara decides she will give working for six months as she does not want to lose the home they grew up in.
Lara returns home to find her brother has not touched their parents room.
Lara's brother leaves Lara to ran the farm after showing her what do and she has the help of his best friend Jack..
Lara learns how to run the farm make decisions but also she learns of her brothers gambling and with the help of Amanda and Jack they get Noah the help he needs.
Jack has had a difficult childhood growing up in New Zealand as well. Lara learns to love him but he has to go back home as to his father been ill.
Jack's dad dies Lara and Noah Fly to New Zealand for the funeral.
In the end Lara ends up living on Erindale with Jack.
Their parents had died six years before and the farm was left to the both of them. Her brother calls her one day to tell her he want to sell the farm as he can not run the farm anymore as he is getting Married to Amanda and plans to move with her to her family farm. Torn between her city job, life Lara decides she will give working for six months as she does not want to lose the home they grew up in.
Lara returns home to find her brother has not touched their parents room.
Lara's brother leaves Lara to ran the farm after showing her what do and she has the help of his best friend Jack..
Lara learns how to run the farm make decisions but also she learns of her brothers gambling and with the help of Amanda and Jack they get Noah the help he needs.
Jack has had a difficult childhood growing up in New Zealand as well. Lara learns to love him but he has to go back home as to his father been ill.
Jack's dad dies Lara and Noah Fly to New Zealand for the funeral.
In the end Lara ends up living on Erindale with Jack.
October 27, 2012
I am not a huge reader of rural romance fiction, however being the owner of a Pre loved book store in the Clare Valley SA does have its advantages. "The Road Home"came through my doors the other day, and I thought well I will just give it a go, well I did. I was unable to put it down and was rushing to finish its, loved the depth of this book and what it had to offer me as a reader. This book just make me laugh and cry and cheer on Lara. I am a city girl who is now living in the country but I am going home, its funny how a book can make you realize what is important in life. I really recommend this book and if you have not read rural fiction before then this is the place to start. Well done Fiona.
March 11, 2012
I haven't read much outback fiction so I didn't know what to expect. To be truthful I wasn't sure if I would like it, but I was wrong. I loved it! I couldn't stop reading Fiona's book. Her novel was about the struggle of a country girl who was sent to the city as a teenager who now returns to run the family farm. Lara Turner faces opposition as she struggles to learn how to run a farm. Jack Morgan - a man with past is best friends with Lara's brother and tries to deny his attraction to Lara.
All Fiona's characters are well written and the story is fantastic.
All Fiona's characters are well written and the story is fantastic.
January 28, 2015
yes another home grown book in the library n fabulous read. Covered a couple of issues like gambling which was hidden well by Noah the attitude of nobody's business kept it so except those who wanted their money. Inheritance can be a pain in the behind depending on when you were born or gender. It was along night read but worthwhile. Have to respect those who live out in the bush n community support in wonderful.
March 21, 2012
I enjoyed this modern Australian outback story. About a city girl who returns home to the bush to run the farm she's always loved. Really liked Lara's character - her free spirit and determination, and of course Jack :) Felt some of the writing needed some editing (a bit corny at times! Lol) but nevertheless an enjoyable read.
March 12, 2012
A very good story set on a farm in Western Australia and the struggles that Lara has to make and of course the pull between Jack the hero with the great caring nature but who needs to learn to love again.
I really enjoyed this one
I really enjoyed this one
March 30, 2012
What a gorgeous book, could not put it down. Makes me wish I was still living on my farm. Didn't want this story to end, wish it could have gone on forever. Hurry up and write more books please Fiona! :)
October 20, 2014
Out of all the books I have read this year, definitely one of my fav's :)
August 6, 2012
Can't go wrong with any of Fiona Palmer's books i just love reading them!!
Always interesting characters and stunning settings.
Always interesting characters and stunning settings.
February 8, 2013
Nice aussie romance, good for a rainy afternoon.
September 6, 2016
ANother great read from Fiona Palmer!!
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