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Aussie Outback Medical #8
Mother's Day
Burra District Hospital's maternity unit is under threat and will close for births unless a new obstetrician can be found. Midwife Noni Frost needs a miracle.
A single mum, Noni lives with her young son, Harley, and her Aunt Win, a free spirit and the beating heart of Burra Guest House. Noni's world is disrupted when Iain McCloud and his pregnant teenage daughter Jacinta move into the guesthouse to await the birth of her baby.
There's instant chemistry between Iain and Noni, although he has no plans to stay on in town. But when Jacinta shares explosive family secrets with Noni and an unexpected crisis occurs, everyone's lives come crashing down around them.
Set among the white gum trees and flowing waters of the NSW northern rivers, this is a heartfelt and dramatic story about new babies, new friends and new loves, which shows that when strong women come together in a time of crisis, they can overcome even the greatest odds.
A single mum, Noni lives with her young son, Harley, and her Aunt Win, a free spirit and the beating heart of Burra Guest House. Noni's world is disrupted when Iain McCloud and his pregnant teenage daughter Jacinta move into the guesthouse to await the birth of her baby.
There's instant chemistry between Iain and Noni, although he has no plans to stay on in town. But when Jacinta shares explosive family secrets with Noni and an unexpected crisis occurs, everyone's lives come crashing down around them.
Set among the white gum trees and flowing waters of the NSW northern rivers, this is a heartfelt and dramatic story about new babies, new friends and new loves, which shows that when strong women come together in a time of crisis, they can overcome even the greatest odds.
- GenresRomanceContemporary
247 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 1, 2023
About the author
Fiona McArthur
303 books214 followersFiona McArthur has worked as a midwife for thirty years. She is the clinical midwifery educator inner rural maternity unit and teaches emergency obstetric strategies while working with midwives and doctors from remote and isolated areas.
Fiona has written more than thirty romances, which have sold over two million copies in twelve languages. She has been a midwifery expert for Mother and Baby magazine and is the author of Aussie Midwives. She has also written the novels Red Sand Sunrise, The Homestead Girls and Heart of the Sky. She lives on a farm in northern New South Wales.
Fiona has written more than thirty romances, which have sold over two million copies in twelve languages. She has been a midwifery expert for Mother and Baby magazine and is the author of Aussie Midwives. She has also written the novels Red Sand Sunrise, The Homestead Girls and Heart of the Sky. She lives on a farm in northern New South Wales.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews
May 3, 2018
When the man knocked on the door of the King’s Cross flat, Jacinta was instantly wary. The unexpected revelation and shock of discovering the man was her father rocked the foundations of her short life. Seventeen and pregnant, Jacinta had been homeless since her mother had died twelve months prior – her confused thoughts still hadn’t provided an answer for when the baby arrived.
Iain McCloud took Jacinta to the small town of Burra where they stayed at the Burra Guest House to await the birth of her baby; he wanted to get to know his daughter before he suddenly became a grandfather.
Noni Frost lived at the guest house with her five-year-old son Harley and her Aunt Win. Noni was a midwife at the Burra District Hospital, and the town’s only doctor/obstetrician was retiring in a few short weeks. The hospital and staff were concerned the maternity unit would close if another obstetrician couldn’t be found.
As Jacinta gradually lost her fears and started to trust both Noni, who ran the birthing classes, and Win who gave gentle comfort and great hugs, she struggled with the secrets she held. She also found it hard to talk to her father…
Would the town find a new obstetrician? What would happen to these three very different, but strong women in their futures?
Aussie author Fiona McArthur calls on her many years of experience as a mid-wife in Mother’s Day, which enthralled me from the word go. A fascinating insight into new babies; their mothers’ rights and desires; the different ways to have your birthing experience – all with an excellent story to tie it all together. Great characters in Win, Noni and Jacinta – and I loved the delightful Harley. I’ve thoroughly enjoyed McArthur’s previous work, and this one didn’t disappoint. Highly recommended.
With thanks to Penguin Random House for my ARC to read and review.
Iain McCloud took Jacinta to the small town of Burra where they stayed at the Burra Guest House to await the birth of her baby; he wanted to get to know his daughter before he suddenly became a grandfather.
Noni Frost lived at the guest house with her five-year-old son Harley and her Aunt Win. Noni was a midwife at the Burra District Hospital, and the town’s only doctor/obstetrician was retiring in a few short weeks. The hospital and staff were concerned the maternity unit would close if another obstetrician couldn’t be found.
As Jacinta gradually lost her fears and started to trust both Noni, who ran the birthing classes, and Win who gave gentle comfort and great hugs, she struggled with the secrets she held. She also found it hard to talk to her father…
Would the town find a new obstetrician? What would happen to these three very different, but strong women in their futures?
Aussie author Fiona McArthur calls on her many years of experience as a mid-wife in Mother’s Day, which enthralled me from the word go. A fascinating insight into new babies; their mothers’ rights and desires; the different ways to have your birthing experience – all with an excellent story to tie it all together. Great characters in Win, Noni and Jacinta – and I loved the delightful Harley. I’ve thoroughly enjoyed McArthur’s previous work, and this one didn’t disappoint. Highly recommended.
With thanks to Penguin Random House for my ARC to read and review.
May 3, 2018
Serendipity at it's finest!
Dedication
To all mothers, including those who live in our hearts, and to grandmothers, aunts, sisters, girlfriends and, of course, midwives who mother others. You are a gift, and those you bless salute you.
Jacinta
The siren wailed again. She thought of her mum every time she heard it and her thin fingers crept to the button on her shirt and tightened around it. Pedro said if you held a button on your shirt until you saw a four-legged animal, then you might, just might, keep something bad from happening to the patient in the ambulance. Jacinta's whip-smart mind disagreed, but her heart couldn't take the risk. Someone should have done it for her mum.
There were too many sirens. Too many ambulances. Too many people who didn't care. The one person who mattered the most had died leaving her sixteen-year-old daughter on mother's day last year.
When there's a knock on Jacinta's door, nothing could have prepared her for who was on the other side. She doesn't open the door as she doesn't know the man standing there.
'I'm your father, Jacinta, Iain McCloud.'
Jacinta's breath caught in her throat and her world tilted. For a second there she thought she might be sick.
Her last name was McCloud.
No. No. He was lying. He had to be. She didn't have a father.
Noni
Confirmed today, it was only six weeks until Dr. Soams's retirement. That gave them until April to find GP or obstetrician or Burra District Hospital would close it's labor unit.
Noni is a midwife at the hospital and if the position for a new Dr. isn't filled she will be out of a job. But it's more than that. Teaching antenatal classes and assisting mothers give birth is her passion.
Noni is starting a series of antenatal classes to a new group, desperately hoping it won't be her last group.
Jacinta and her newfound father will be in this group.
Chance brings Noni, Jacinta, and Iain together but none of them know that their lives will never be the same again.
Mothers' Day by Fiona McArthur spoke directly to my heart as I'm a pediatric nurse. Working with brand new babies and their parents was one of my favorite places to work. I lost my mom at few weeks before Mother's Day last year so this story was both heartbreakingly sad
and full of hope, joy and love all at the same time. I'm not usually one for reading romantic suspense but this is different, somehow.
It was deeply moving and it was the perfect book to read on Mother's Day. I read it in one sitting! I loved it!
In case you're wondering, I just happened to come across this book while browsing through my friend's books and reviews.
The timing is completely incidental.
Serendipity? Perhaps.
Dedication
To all mothers, including those who live in our hearts, and to grandmothers, aunts, sisters, girlfriends and, of course, midwives who mother others. You are a gift, and those you bless salute you.
Jacinta
The siren wailed again. She thought of her mum every time she heard it and her thin fingers crept to the button on her shirt and tightened around it. Pedro said if you held a button on your shirt until you saw a four-legged animal, then you might, just might, keep something bad from happening to the patient in the ambulance. Jacinta's whip-smart mind disagreed, but her heart couldn't take the risk. Someone should have done it for her mum.
There were too many sirens. Too many ambulances. Too many people who didn't care. The one person who mattered the most had died leaving her sixteen-year-old daughter on mother's day last year.
When there's a knock on Jacinta's door, nothing could have prepared her for who was on the other side. She doesn't open the door as she doesn't know the man standing there.
'I'm your father, Jacinta, Iain McCloud.'
Jacinta's breath caught in her throat and her world tilted. For a second there she thought she might be sick.
Her last name was McCloud.
No. No. He was lying. He had to be. She didn't have a father.
Noni
Confirmed today, it was only six weeks until Dr. Soams's retirement. That gave them until April to find GP or obstetrician or Burra District Hospital would close it's labor unit.
Noni is a midwife at the hospital and if the position for a new Dr. isn't filled she will be out of a job. But it's more than that. Teaching antenatal classes and assisting mothers give birth is her passion.
Noni is starting a series of antenatal classes to a new group, desperately hoping it won't be her last group.
Jacinta and her newfound father will be in this group.
Chance brings Noni, Jacinta, and Iain together but none of them know that their lives will never be the same again.
Mothers' Day by Fiona McArthur spoke directly to my heart as I'm a pediatric nurse. Working with brand new babies and their parents was one of my favorite places to work. I lost my mom at few weeks before Mother's Day last year so this story was both heartbreakingly sad
and full of hope, joy and love all at the same time. I'm not usually one for reading romantic suspense but this is different, somehow.
It was deeply moving and it was the perfect book to read on Mother's Day. I read it in one sitting! I loved it!
In case you're wondering, I just happened to come across this book while browsing through my friend's books and reviews.
The timing is completely incidental.
Serendipity? Perhaps.
Read
April 2, 2018*https://mrsbbookreviews.wordpress.com
Australian author Fiona McArthur leads the way in terms of medical romance set in various rural locations across our country. After taking a look at her backlist I was astounded to see just how many books she has to her name. Fiona is back, just in time for Mothers’ day, with a brand new title named after the day when we honour our mums with, Mothers’ Day.
Mothers’ Day is set in Burra, a small country town in rural NSW. It revolves around Burra District hospital, which is under the threat of closure. It reveals the lives of three different women. The first is Noni Frost, a midwife and a single mother to young son Harley. We witness how Noni’s life is significantly changed when newcomer Iain McCloud arrives in Burra, with his pregnant daughter in tow. Although Iain’s stay in Burra is only temporary, when he develops a strong affection for Noni, he begins to have second thoughts about leaving Burra so soon. Linked to these two characters is Jacinta, Iain’s teenage daughter who he has recently been reunited with and desperately wants to help. With a baby on the way and single, Jacinta needs all the help she can take. The final and third player in this tale is Win, the owner of Burra’s local guest house, who goes out of her way to help Iain and Jacinta. With a stunning country backdrop in the distance, Mothers’ Day is the gentle and emotional tale of love, life and birth in tough times. Fiona McArthur and her endearing characters show us what counts.
It has been at least two years since I last read a Fiona McArthur title and I’m not sure how that happened as I love Fiona’s work! Anyhow, when the opportunity presented itself to read and review McArthur’s latest release, I found myself very excited about the prospect of delving into Mothers’ Day. The excitement I put into wanting to read this book was definitely warranted, I enjoyed this book very much and I am sure many loyal and new readers to McArthur’s work will too.
Mothers’ Day encompasses of a rich narrative that weaves its way around three core female figures and a strong male protagonist. It is told via shifting chapter perspectives as we become fully invested in the involving lives of Jacinta, Noni and Win. The way in which the narrative is structured, dividing the reader’s time between these three women, ensures that the audience is able to develop a connection to all three women. While I soon developed a fondness for Noni and Win, my relationship with Jacinta was much harder to forge. Although she grated on me a times, I ended up feeling very sorry for her. I also got quite taken in with her secrets, which McArthur gently released as the book progressed. There is no denying the fact that each of the women in this novel have their own fears, insecurities and faults, but underneath they each have a heart of gold. I loved their individual pathways taken in Mothers’ Day, which is a reflection of McArthur’s solid storytelling skills.
Supporting Noni, Jacinta and Win is male lead Iain. A successful doctor and a man adjusting to instant fatherhood of a seventeen year old pregnant daughter, makes Iain’s journey a fascinating one to follow. Overall, I found Iain a nice guy but he did have his moments when he became quite single minded. However, by the close of the novel, the situations Iain becomes involved in and the way in which he responds to these situations allowed him to occupy a bigger place in my heart.
For those who are not aware, Fiona McArthur has strong background in the medical field, specialising in midwifery. She uses this to her advantage in all her novels and Mothers’ Day is no exception. All the medical scenes in this novel come across as credible and highly informative. I found myself casting my mind back to my own pregnancy, the births of my two children and the ante natal classes I attended through the experiences presented by Fiona McArthur and the characters of Mothers’ Day.
Romance is a big theme in this novel and it comes in the form of Noni and Iain’s instant attraction. When these characters collide on the pages of this novel, sparks always seem to fly. The heat and attraction is obvious and I liked the progression of their relationship. For those who enjoy a sizzle or two, there are a few sexy scenes in Mothers’ Day to keep you entertained!
Mothers’ Day explores some great themes. The medical environment underpinning this novel allows McArthur to explore issues such as birth options, staffing pressures and threats of closure to district hospitals. This is all done with composure and professional insight. I also liked how McArthur chose to focus the novel on connection, reconnection, friendships, second chances, building bridges and gaining trust. On the whole, I feel love, family, friendship, trust and loyalty are what best defines this new novel from Fiona McArthur. There are smiles all round by the close of the novel, after the rocky road travelled which each of these protagonists. Mothers’ Day is a novel full of emotional drama, but plenty of heart to keep you balanced.
The best gift you can give to mark the occasion of Mothers’ day is a book and Fiona McArthur’s new novel, aptly titled Mothers Day’, would make the ideal present this May.
Australian author Fiona McArthur leads the way in terms of medical romance set in various rural locations across our country. After taking a look at her backlist I was astounded to see just how many books she has to her name. Fiona is back, just in time for Mothers’ day, with a brand new title named after the day when we honour our mums with, Mothers’ Day.
Mothers’ Day is set in Burra, a small country town in rural NSW. It revolves around Burra District hospital, which is under the threat of closure. It reveals the lives of three different women. The first is Noni Frost, a midwife and a single mother to young son Harley. We witness how Noni’s life is significantly changed when newcomer Iain McCloud arrives in Burra, with his pregnant daughter in tow. Although Iain’s stay in Burra is only temporary, when he develops a strong affection for Noni, he begins to have second thoughts about leaving Burra so soon. Linked to these two characters is Jacinta, Iain’s teenage daughter who he has recently been reunited with and desperately wants to help. With a baby on the way and single, Jacinta needs all the help she can take. The final and third player in this tale is Win, the owner of Burra’s local guest house, who goes out of her way to help Iain and Jacinta. With a stunning country backdrop in the distance, Mothers’ Day is the gentle and emotional tale of love, life and birth in tough times. Fiona McArthur and her endearing characters show us what counts.
It has been at least two years since I last read a Fiona McArthur title and I’m not sure how that happened as I love Fiona’s work! Anyhow, when the opportunity presented itself to read and review McArthur’s latest release, I found myself very excited about the prospect of delving into Mothers’ Day. The excitement I put into wanting to read this book was definitely warranted, I enjoyed this book very much and I am sure many loyal and new readers to McArthur’s work will too.
Mothers’ Day encompasses of a rich narrative that weaves its way around three core female figures and a strong male protagonist. It is told via shifting chapter perspectives as we become fully invested in the involving lives of Jacinta, Noni and Win. The way in which the narrative is structured, dividing the reader’s time between these three women, ensures that the audience is able to develop a connection to all three women. While I soon developed a fondness for Noni and Win, my relationship with Jacinta was much harder to forge. Although she grated on me a times, I ended up feeling very sorry for her. I also got quite taken in with her secrets, which McArthur gently released as the book progressed. There is no denying the fact that each of the women in this novel have their own fears, insecurities and faults, but underneath they each have a heart of gold. I loved their individual pathways taken in Mothers’ Day, which is a reflection of McArthur’s solid storytelling skills.
Supporting Noni, Jacinta and Win is male lead Iain. A successful doctor and a man adjusting to instant fatherhood of a seventeen year old pregnant daughter, makes Iain’s journey a fascinating one to follow. Overall, I found Iain a nice guy but he did have his moments when he became quite single minded. However, by the close of the novel, the situations Iain becomes involved in and the way in which he responds to these situations allowed him to occupy a bigger place in my heart.
For those who are not aware, Fiona McArthur has strong background in the medical field, specialising in midwifery. She uses this to her advantage in all her novels and Mothers’ Day is no exception. All the medical scenes in this novel come across as credible and highly informative. I found myself casting my mind back to my own pregnancy, the births of my two children and the ante natal classes I attended through the experiences presented by Fiona McArthur and the characters of Mothers’ Day.
Romance is a big theme in this novel and it comes in the form of Noni and Iain’s instant attraction. When these characters collide on the pages of this novel, sparks always seem to fly. The heat and attraction is obvious and I liked the progression of their relationship. For those who enjoy a sizzle or two, there are a few sexy scenes in Mothers’ Day to keep you entertained!
Mothers’ Day explores some great themes. The medical environment underpinning this novel allows McArthur to explore issues such as birth options, staffing pressures and threats of closure to district hospitals. This is all done with composure and professional insight. I also liked how McArthur chose to focus the novel on connection, reconnection, friendships, second chances, building bridges and gaining trust. On the whole, I feel love, family, friendship, trust and loyalty are what best defines this new novel from Fiona McArthur. There are smiles all round by the close of the novel, after the rocky road travelled which each of these protagonists. Mothers’ Day is a novel full of emotional drama, but plenty of heart to keep you balanced.
The best gift you can give to mark the occasion of Mothers’ day is a book and Fiona McArthur’s new novel, aptly titled Mothers Day’, would make the ideal present this May.
January 28, 2020
The maternity unit at Burra District Hospital is under threat of closure unless a new obstetrician is found. Midwife Noni Frost is hoping the unit can remain open. Noni is a single mum who, with her five year old son Harley, lives with her Aunt Win at Burra Guest House. Into the guest house comes Iain McCloud and his seventeen year old pregnant daughter Jacinta. Ian has only recently found out about his daughter, a product of a love affair when he was very young. It is only after her mother Adele, dies that Jacinta and Iain learn of each other’s existence. Now, getting Jacinta away from dangerous influenced from her past, they are staying at the Burra guest house awaiting the birth of Jacinta’s baby. Sparks fly between Iain and Noni and not always in a good way, as they have very different ideas especially when it comes to how to care for his pregnant daughter and her baby.
Noni is a great character, strong and feisty and prepared to stick up for what she believes. She is also a loving mother to Harley and a loving and grateful niece to Aunt Win who gave her a home when she was young, single and pregnant. Noni is a hard worker, who has a great affinity for the pregnant woman she cares for and loves being a midwife. Jacinta and Iain are also strong willed characters, so you know there will be some clashes along the way. The unconventional Win, who has some unorthodox ideas, has a heart of gold and loves her niece and grandnephew. She also has strong feelings for a man she has known for years.
I enjoyed the characters and the story of this small community. Obviously a lot of practical knowledge or research has gone into all the midwifery details. Sometimes though, this is to the detriment of the story as it slows things down and maybe not all of us needed to know as many details. But that is just a minor quibble in what is an extremely readable book, fraught with romantic tension as well as dealing with issues of parenting, lies and secrets. Another enjoyable Australian read and the author had me interested from start to finish. This is the third book I have read by this author and she never fails to interest and engage me.
Noni is a great character, strong and feisty and prepared to stick up for what she believes. She is also a loving mother to Harley and a loving and grateful niece to Aunt Win who gave her a home when she was young, single and pregnant. Noni is a hard worker, who has a great affinity for the pregnant woman she cares for and loves being a midwife. Jacinta and Iain are also strong willed characters, so you know there will be some clashes along the way. The unconventional Win, who has some unorthodox ideas, has a heart of gold and loves her niece and grandnephew. She also has strong feelings for a man she has known for years.
I enjoyed the characters and the story of this small community. Obviously a lot of practical knowledge or research has gone into all the midwifery details. Sometimes though, this is to the detriment of the story as it slows things down and maybe not all of us needed to know as many details. But that is just a minor quibble in what is an extremely readable book, fraught with romantic tension as well as dealing with issues of parenting, lies and secrets. Another enjoyable Australian read and the author had me interested from start to finish. This is the third book I have read by this author and she never fails to interest and engage me.
April 1, 2018
MS McArthur you have done it again written such a gorgeous story, about three beautiful, wonderful woman and their lives as they grow and learn no matter their age and they nurture and gain strength and love together in the beautiful small country town of Burra in the Riverina of NSW and the local maternity hospital. Of course there is a beautiful romance as well, sit back and enjoy, this is a fabulous story.
Noni Frost is a single mum to young son Harley and midwife at the local Burra maternity hospital and she feels very strongly about her job and her family she lives with her free spirit aunt Winsome, who runs a guest house, but it looks like the local hospital might need to close if they cannot find a new obstetrician and soon. So when Iain McCloud and his pregnant daughter Jacinta arrive at the guest house sparks fly in many ways when Iain and Noni meet.
Jacinta is seventeen, pregnant and has been living on the streets since losing her mother a year before, suddenly rescued by the father she never knew her life is upended she finds it hard to trust Iain McCloud and then he takes her to the country of all places oh but this maybe a good thing when she meets midwife Noni and the awesome Win.
Win has led a life of happiness during her years a free spirit in the town of Burra she is popular with everyone and has her weekends to spend time with friends she has always been there for Noni and Harley and now she opens her home and heart to Jacinta and Iain, but it is also time for Win to find her love.
Iain never knew he had a daughter and there is a lot of guilt for him to come to terms with, he is a successful Doctor but when he arrives in Burra he keeps a lot to himself but he cannot deny the spark that connects him to the beautiful feisty Noni for very long.
I loved this story from page one it is moving there is humour it ticks all of the boxes for a heart -warming romance that will keep you turning the pages I just about inhaled this one the strength that is shown by the woman in the story and then there is Iain wow a stubborn hero but one that is easy to fall for, seeing him when his daughter is having her baby was gorgeous and yes there were tears. Iain is there to save the day when there is a crisis and he left me sighing as did the characters in this emotional, moving, fabulous book, woohoo MS McArthur you rock I loved it and highly recommend this one.
Noni Frost is a single mum to young son Harley and midwife at the local Burra maternity hospital and she feels very strongly about her job and her family she lives with her free spirit aunt Winsome, who runs a guest house, but it looks like the local hospital might need to close if they cannot find a new obstetrician and soon. So when Iain McCloud and his pregnant daughter Jacinta arrive at the guest house sparks fly in many ways when Iain and Noni meet.
Jacinta is seventeen, pregnant and has been living on the streets since losing her mother a year before, suddenly rescued by the father she never knew her life is upended she finds it hard to trust Iain McCloud and then he takes her to the country of all places oh but this maybe a good thing when she meets midwife Noni and the awesome Win.
Win has led a life of happiness during her years a free spirit in the town of Burra she is popular with everyone and has her weekends to spend time with friends she has always been there for Noni and Harley and now she opens her home and heart to Jacinta and Iain, but it is also time for Win to find her love.
Iain never knew he had a daughter and there is a lot of guilt for him to come to terms with, he is a successful Doctor but when he arrives in Burra he keeps a lot to himself but he cannot deny the spark that connects him to the beautiful feisty Noni for very long.
I loved this story from page one it is moving there is humour it ticks all of the boxes for a heart -warming romance that will keep you turning the pages I just about inhaled this one the strength that is shown by the woman in the story and then there is Iain wow a stubborn hero but one that is easy to fall for, seeing him when his daughter is having her baby was gorgeous and yes there were tears. Iain is there to save the day when there is a crisis and he left me sighing as did the characters in this emotional, moving, fabulous book, woohoo MS McArthur you rock I loved it and highly recommend this one.
March 9, 2025
Wonderfully heartwarming contemporary romance story, set in NSW Northern Rivers.
Noni is a wonderful midwife and a memorable protagonist.
I enjoyed the addition of the birth classes.
Noni is a wonderful midwife and a memorable protagonist.
I enjoyed the addition of the birth classes.
June 6, 2018
I really enjoyed this read. I loved Noni and Win, I wanted to move into the b&b just to hang out with Win. I appreciated the way Jacinta grew in a short amount of time given some love and support that she'd lacked throughout her life. And
alpha male Iain definitely had a lot of learning to do right through the story. I learnt a great deal about midwifery and if I'm ever lucky enough, I know I'd definitely choose that route.
alpha male Iain definitely had a lot of learning to do right through the story. I learnt a great deal about midwifery and if I'm ever lucky enough, I know I'd definitely choose that route.
April 1, 2018
I’m pretty sure I say this for every Fiona McArthur books I read and review, but I love her books. I know I can rely on a great story with conflict and drama, yet expect a happy ending. Of course, Mothers’ Day has this in spades. It’s a heart-warming tale that introduces the reader to a number of strong characters and their stories in a lovely part of rural Australia.
All the female characters hold their own in this story, but the main character is Noni. She’s a midwife at the local hospital in Burra, which is under threat because the local obstetrician is retiring. Noni truly loves her job and this will be devastating for her. She’s worked hard as a single mum to bring up her son Harley and give him a good childhood while living with her Aunt Win. Win is a rock in Noni and Harley’s life, and runs a small guesthouse in Burra. This is how Iain and Jacinta McCloud come into their lives. Jacinta is the daughter Iain never knew he had. Jacinta’s pregnant and until Iain found her in Sydney, was doing things tough. So in the guesthouse is a new father-daughter relationship where both teams are exceptionally headstrong. Sparks are sure to fly – and they do – but Noni and Iain are the ones providing the brightest ones! The air crackles between them as they spar on topics such as the birthing process, but both know that there could be more in their relationship. Will they take a chance when this is likely to be a short relationship?
Threaded through the narrative are the stories of a number of mothers and mums-to-be. Jacinta’s worries are closely linked to that of her own mother. She also becomes friends with some other teenage mums in town. There is Noni’s own story of course, in contrast to Iain’s story as an insta-dad to a 17 year old girl. There are a lot of ways that motherhood is celebrated in this novel, both traditional and non-traditional. It’s a beautiful story, particularly Jacinta’s own birthing process. (There’s also a bit of humour too as Iain and Noni spark off against each other – in a bathroom). The dialogue is sensitive when it needs to be, or witty and warm. Despite the story being set in a country town, there is plenty of drama as the story unfolds from the eyes of Noni, Jacinta and Win. I liked the contrast between these women of different ages in terms of wisdom and outlook on life. You would think Win would be more world-weary, being older, but she’s not. She has a calm outlook on life but that doesn’t mean to say that she has it all sorted. I loved Jacinta’s attitude that she could conquer the world, and really felt for her when she was gripped by fear. Noni was somewhere in the middle of the two – she has guts, but she’s more cautious than Jacinta and doesn’t quite have the confidence of Win. Watching Noni grow more confident was wonderful to watch.
Mothers’ Day is simply put, a beautiful story. It celebrates women of all ages, whether they are biological mothers or not, wrapped up in a story that is truly memorable.
Thank you to Penguin for the copy of this book. My review is honest.
http://samstillreading.wordpress.com
All the female characters hold their own in this story, but the main character is Noni. She’s a midwife at the local hospital in Burra, which is under threat because the local obstetrician is retiring. Noni truly loves her job and this will be devastating for her. She’s worked hard as a single mum to bring up her son Harley and give him a good childhood while living with her Aunt Win. Win is a rock in Noni and Harley’s life, and runs a small guesthouse in Burra. This is how Iain and Jacinta McCloud come into their lives. Jacinta is the daughter Iain never knew he had. Jacinta’s pregnant and until Iain found her in Sydney, was doing things tough. So in the guesthouse is a new father-daughter relationship where both teams are exceptionally headstrong. Sparks are sure to fly – and they do – but Noni and Iain are the ones providing the brightest ones! The air crackles between them as they spar on topics such as the birthing process, but both know that there could be more in their relationship. Will they take a chance when this is likely to be a short relationship?
Threaded through the narrative are the stories of a number of mothers and mums-to-be. Jacinta’s worries are closely linked to that of her own mother. She also becomes friends with some other teenage mums in town. There is Noni’s own story of course, in contrast to Iain’s story as an insta-dad to a 17 year old girl. There are a lot of ways that motherhood is celebrated in this novel, both traditional and non-traditional. It’s a beautiful story, particularly Jacinta’s own birthing process. (There’s also a bit of humour too as Iain and Noni spark off against each other – in a bathroom). The dialogue is sensitive when it needs to be, or witty and warm. Despite the story being set in a country town, there is plenty of drama as the story unfolds from the eyes of Noni, Jacinta and Win. I liked the contrast between these women of different ages in terms of wisdom and outlook on life. You would think Win would be more world-weary, being older, but she’s not. She has a calm outlook on life but that doesn’t mean to say that she has it all sorted. I loved Jacinta’s attitude that she could conquer the world, and really felt for her when she was gripped by fear. Noni was somewhere in the middle of the two – she has guts, but she’s more cautious than Jacinta and doesn’t quite have the confidence of Win. Watching Noni grow more confident was wonderful to watch.
Mothers’ Day is simply put, a beautiful story. It celebrates women of all ages, whether they are biological mothers or not, wrapped up in a story that is truly memorable.
Thank you to Penguin for the copy of this book. My review is honest.
http://samstillreading.wordpress.com
January 8, 2022
Goodness. I'm kicking myself here for not reading a Fiona McArthur story earlier! This was just simply beautiful.
Jacinta is seventeen and pregnant. She's also just met her birth father, Iian; who just wants the best for his newly found daughter. So he moves them from the risks in Sydney to Burra until Jacinta gives birth.
Noni is a midwife at Burra District Hospital. Her job is under threat due to the foreseen closure of the maternity ward. Noni is dedicated to her career, and the parents and babies. Her five year old son Harley is her life.
Win is Noni's aunt. As owner of the Burra Guest House, she's a free spirit who's on the cusp of a major change of her own. Win is completely devoted to her family and those who choose to stay with her.
Whilst this story focuses predominantly on pregnancy and birth, it's also a gorgeous tale that celebrates women. In my opinion, Jacinta had the most character growth. She went from a terrified young woman in crisis to a strong independent mother in such a short time. It's amazing what love and support can do!
I'm a bit conflicted about Iian and Noni's developing relationship. Iian is somewhat controlling and being with someone like Noni, who's fierce and passionate it either will turn out well or they'll have major issues in the long run!
Of course Win is such a gentle soul. I love how she just embraces life and isn't too afraid to try new experiences. And Harley is such the cutest little boy who ultimately just wants a Dad.
Loved every moment of this book that celebrates women, even if they aren't mothers.
🌟🌟🌟🌟✨/5
Jacinta is seventeen and pregnant. She's also just met her birth father, Iian; who just wants the best for his newly found daughter. So he moves them from the risks in Sydney to Burra until Jacinta gives birth.
Noni is a midwife at Burra District Hospital. Her job is under threat due to the foreseen closure of the maternity ward. Noni is dedicated to her career, and the parents and babies. Her five year old son Harley is her life.
Win is Noni's aunt. As owner of the Burra Guest House, she's a free spirit who's on the cusp of a major change of her own. Win is completely devoted to her family and those who choose to stay with her.
Whilst this story focuses predominantly on pregnancy and birth, it's also a gorgeous tale that celebrates women. In my opinion, Jacinta had the most character growth. She went from a terrified young woman in crisis to a strong independent mother in such a short time. It's amazing what love and support can do!
I'm a bit conflicted about Iian and Noni's developing relationship. Iian is somewhat controlling and being with someone like Noni, who's fierce and passionate it either will turn out well or they'll have major issues in the long run!
Of course Win is such a gentle soul. I love how she just embraces life and isn't too afraid to try new experiences. And Harley is such the cutest little boy who ultimately just wants a Dad.
Loved every moment of this book that celebrates women, even if they aren't mothers.
🌟🌟🌟🌟✨/5
October 1, 2018
This was a wonderful story of Jacinta who is 17 years old, pregnant and living in King's Cross with a gay drug dealer after being homeless for some time. Her mother passed away 12 months ago and her boyfriend didn't want to know her once he found out she was pregnant. One day she receives a knock at the door by a man who claims to be her father. He had only just found out he had a daughter. Moving forward he takes her to a country town guesthouse for the duration of her pregnancy and to get to know and support her. Win is the owner of the guesthouse and lives there with her niece Noni and her niece's son Harley. Noni is a midwife at the local hospital and Win runs the guesthouse. Noni understands what it's like to be young and pregnant as her aunt Win took her in 5 years ago when she was in the same position. The local hospital"s obstetrician is retiring and they are desparate to find someone to replace him.
Iain, Jacinta's dad is struggling to be a parent and relating with his daughter. So the story unfolds as Iain gets to know his daughter whilst developing relationships with Win, Noni and Harley.
I wont's say much more after setting the scene other than I read this in 3 sittings as the story truly captured my attention, made me feel good, kept me turning the pages and tugged at my hearstrings.
Iain, Jacinta's dad is struggling to be a parent and relating with his daughter. So the story unfolds as Iain gets to know his daughter whilst developing relationships with Win, Noni and Harley.
I wont's say much more after setting the scene other than I read this in 3 sittings as the story truly captured my attention, made me feel good, kept me turning the pages and tugged at my hearstrings.
May 23, 2018
what can I say Fiona McAthur book Mother's Day is such a beautiful story of a father discovering he had daughter Jacinta a seventeen years old girl who is pregnant and had lived on the streets and then a flat in Kings Cross with a man who was a gay drug dealer when Ian Mc Cloud found his daughter. They moved to Burra to stay at Guest house run by Win and Noni to wait for the birth of his granddaughter. Ian an obstetrician hides what he does for living from them expect Dr Soams knows the truth a retiring obstetrician.
Noni a single mother to a five years old Harley and a midwife at the hospital in Burra. Her job is at risk if they don't find a replacement for doctor Soams.
Ian learns to child birth through a midwives perspective and how things are different in the country.
It is amazing to read about these characters and watch the relationships unfold ad as you read the book and ending on mothers day a year later.
I highly recommend this book as i read it in three days. love it .
Noni a single mother to a five years old Harley and a midwife at the hospital in Burra. Her job is at risk if they don't find a replacement for doctor Soams.
Ian learns to child birth through a midwives perspective and how things are different in the country.
It is amazing to read about these characters and watch the relationships unfold ad as you read the book and ending on mothers day a year later.
I highly recommend this book as i read it in three days. love it .
April 16, 2018
This is a beautiful book. It was quite obvious what was going to happen, but then problems were constantly being thrown in the way.
My only problem with the book was the town it was set in, Burra. I kept thinking of Burra in South Australia, but that was my problem, not the books.
An absolutely must read.
My only problem with the book was the town it was set in, Burra. I kept thinking of Burra in South Australia, but that was my problem, not the books.
An absolutely must read.
September 3, 2018
Loved this book really pulls at the heart strings. My first but not my last book by Fiona McArthur. Was very well written and loved reading it.
September 6, 2018
Really beautiful read! I bought it for my Mum for Mother’s Day & finally got to read it in my TBR this week. Lovely 💕 Thank you FM 😘
May 10, 2019
A nice light read with some great characters but some questionable behaviours.
May 23, 2023
Awesome book
This is the first book by Fiona MacArthur I've read, but it won't be the last. I loved the way she developed her characters, strong, yet with their weaknesses, but very real for me. Loved Aunt Win. Watched Iian struggle and come to terms with falling for Noni, a very strong independent woman. They butt heads professionally. She is a very good role model for the very pregnant, 17 year old daughter he has just found out he has. He's not quite ready to be a grandpa at the age of 35. I hope you enjoy this book as much as I did.💜
This is the first book by Fiona MacArthur I've read, but it won't be the last. I loved the way she developed her characters, strong, yet with their weaknesses, but very real for me. Loved Aunt Win. Watched Iian struggle and come to terms with falling for Noni, a very strong independent woman. They butt heads professionally. She is a very good role model for the very pregnant, 17 year old daughter he has just found out he has. He's not quite ready to be a grandpa at the age of 35. I hope you enjoy this book as much as I did.💜
September 23, 2024
Kind of predictable (I guessed the ending from the moment Noni and Iain met), but very informative about natural childbirth and NSW in general. I loved the characters and their development over time, especially Harley's attachment to Iain, and the book ended just the way I thought - all's well that ends well. A lovely read.
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May 21, 2023Cute
A midwife teaches an obstetrician about natural childbirth while falling in love with him. Throw in one cute five year old boy and one teenage pregnant gorl, and you have ...a family?
A midwife teaches an obstetrician about natural childbirth while falling in love with him. Throw in one cute five year old boy and one teenage pregnant gorl, and you have ...a family?
May 24, 2023
fun story of survival love and redemption
This is a fun story of a man discovering fatherhood of a teenage girl pregnant and homeless. In the story we see her grow into a confident woman with the assistance of her newfound family.
Quick read.
This is a fun story of a man discovering fatherhood of a teenage girl pregnant and homeless. In the story we see her grow into a confident woman with the assistance of her newfound family.
Quick read.
June 7, 2023
5 Star
Thoroughly enjoyable. This book had it All! Romance,education regarding birth and labor. And beautiful belivable charactors. As a nurse and a mother, I really appreciated the way the birthing process was managed.
Thoroughly enjoyable. This book had it All! Romance,education regarding birth and labor. And beautiful belivable charactors. As a nurse and a mother, I really appreciated the way the birthing process was managed.
June 9, 2023
Excellent read love it
Loved this book and All the characters I'm 80 years young with 8 grown children 22 grand and 27 great grand children will be sharing this with many of them. ;)
Loved this book and All the characters I'm 80 years young with 8 grown children 22 grand and 27 great grand children will be sharing this with many of them. ;)
July 11, 2023
Mother's Day ( Aussie Outback Medical Romance book 8
Although I had never read anything by Fiona McArthur, I enjoyed the above book immrncrely. It was fast paced, very difficult to put down. Her characters were believable
Looking forward to reading more by her.
Although I had never read anything by Fiona McArthur, I enjoyed the above book immrncrely. It was fast paced, very difficult to put down. Her characters were believable
Looking forward to reading more by her.
December 22, 2023
GREAR
I have read every single book in this series!
I enjoy the “picture painting” of the local and the people involved!
I love the description of the life and struggles in the countryside of Australia!
I have read every single book in this series!
I enjoy the “picture painting” of the local and the people involved!
I love the description of the life and struggles in the countryside of Australia!
February 3, 2024
Seventeen Years Ago
Considering all aspects of this story, I feel women from their mid-twenties and older would like reading this book. It is a romance and so much more, showing creativity and willingness to put a new twist on things!
Considering all aspects of this story, I feel women from their mid-twenties and older would like reading this book. It is a romance and so much more, showing creativity and willingness to put a new twist on things!
May 10, 2024
A Very Good Book
The characters were fun and interesting. The story had some great twists and turns. It had so much good information about babies and raising children. The romance in the story were so good. I enjoyed this book from start to finish.
The characters were fun and interesting. The story had some great twists and turns. It had so much good information about babies and raising children. The romance in the story were so good. I enjoyed this book from start to finish.
May 16, 2023
easy read
This is not my preferred genre but I did read it and found it had all the elements to make it an interesting read.
This is not my preferred genre but I did read it and found it had all the elements to make it an interesting read.
May 18, 2023
A great book!
I loved it,hated for it to end because these people became my friends while I read! Completely mesmerizing,wish it could have kept going on for longer!
I loved it,hated for it to end because these people became my friends while I read! Completely mesmerizing,wish it could have kept going on for longer!
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July 14, 2023Read 7/23
July 17, 2023
I enjoyed this story, and learned a lot. The storyline did get a little repetitive and long.
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