The Station: Volume Two

by Mel A. Rowe

Love or legacy – only one can be chosen.

“It was going to kill him to say goodbye to one to keep the other, when his family’s legacy already dictated which one he had to choose and which one to let go ...”

Jake is set to take the reins as the next cattle king on the largest cattle station in the Northern Territory. With vultures circling for their piece of his family’s land, and with time running out on Sienna’s work contract, Jake takes on a risky venture.

But when a ghost from the past reveals a deep dark secret, it tears Jake’s family apart. And the only woman who can help them is leaving.

Will this dusty Cinderella keep her prince? Or will Jake let the love of his life go, breaking both their hearts, in the epic conclusion to this heart-warming outback romance.

For a better reading experience, it is recommended you read The Volume One.

394 pages, Kindle Edition

Published August 23, 2023

About the author

♥︎ International bestselling Australian author creating romantic escapes for readers who crave emotionally rich stories — from outback cowboys to magic and moody manors — all with hard-won happily-ever-afters and a twist in every tale. ⋆˙⟡♡

For more visit: MelAROWE.com.

Reviews

[Helen · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved volume one in this duology so much, but I have to say I have been be blown away with volume two, let me say Sienna would have to be one of the very best heroines I have met in any story I have read and Jake is the perfect hero for her, we are back at The Station to see how life works out for them both, and I savoured every word.

Life is tough on the land and no one knows that more than Jake, he is doing everything he can to save Danbunnan Station, known fondly as The Station, life has been made a bit easier since their relief cook Sienna arrived, and everyone has learnt a little more about Sienna and her wonderful project skills and the way she has made so many changes all for the better and Jake and Sienna’s secret affair is growing, will they come through the challenges that have been thrown their way?

When a dark family secret becomes known the Cullen family are torn apart and Jake is struggling also, knowing that the time is fast approaching for Sienna to leave, when suddenly they are thrown again with the entry into the Co-Op’s competition which Jake does not want to enter, with his neighbour doing everything in his power to bring Danbunnan down so as he can take over, will Jake’s plans for the future and the changes he has made help, well Sienna is determined they will and starts a full steam ahead project to save Danbunnan, but will it save their relationship?

I didn’t want this story to end, it is so awesome, with so many wonderful characters, being on Danbunnan with everyone was a joy, this one is filled with heartfelt emotion, it is such a brilliantly told story, I felt like I was there and any reader could not love Sienna and see the joy she brings to the people she works with and the support she gives, then there is Jake man what a hero, both Sienna and Jake have been through so much it is time for them to find their love and happiness.

I highly recommend this one Mel A Rowe has outdone herself with part two of this brilliant story, I was crying bucket loads of happy tears at the end, it is another witty and wonderful story that is sure to please any romance reader, if you haven’t already read volume one pick it up and then this one after, you need to read both, I loved it so much.

My thanks to the author for my digital copy to read and review.

[Jane Hartley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Territory magic

As will all Mel's books, she has woven
her magic yet again.
Mel has spoken about the unspoken Black Dog. It's a pleasure to read with a powerful message woven through it.
I've read all Mels books and they are all great reads.

[Joanne Barton · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love or legacy—only one can be chosen.

“It was going to kill him to say goodbye to one to keep the other, when his family’s legacy already dictated which one he had to choose and which one to let go ..."

Jake is set to take the reins as the next cattle king on the largest cattle station in the Northern Territory. With the vultures circling for their piece of his family’s land, and with time running out on Sienna’s work contract, Jake takes on a risky venture.

But when a ghost from the past reveals a deep dark secret, it tears Jake’s family apart. And the only woman who can help them is leaving.

Will this dusty Cinderella keep her prince? Or will Jake let the love of his life go, breaking both their hearts, in the epic conclusion to this heart-warming outback romance.

I have just finished reading and absolutely loved it - volume I was brilliant but volume II is even better 😊. I read it in less than twenty four hours - could not put it down! I have enjoyed my return trip to Danbunnan’s Station with Jake and Sienna’s story continuing, along the with station crew, the family and Sally, the dog. I love the way Mel brings the characters to life - it is like you know them and wish you were there! I love the way she brings the Northern Territory to life before your eyes - harsh, rugged and beautiful - all in one! A beautiful part of the world that should not be missed!

Can the love Jake and Sienna have for each other overcome one hundred plus years of family legacy? Will secrets destroy a future for the two of them? I really hope that there is another chapter/book for this wonderful and engaging couple …. Highly recommended 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟

[Melissa · Rating 5 out of 5]

The second installment of the series was just as compelling as the first. I loved continuing with the characters that I had grown to love and had varying moments when I couldn't put the book down and caught myself sneaking another few pages in every chance I got.

The only thing that could have improved upon the book was an epilogue. I'm a sucker for an epilogue and I love to get a peek into the future of the characters I love.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[steve pepper · Rating 5 out of 5]

volume one was great, loved it. volume two went to a whole other level. each character was so well defined. as the story developed you couldn't help but become emotionally invested in each characters well being. what a ride of emotion. author Mel A Rowe's storytelling is such in detail of setting and characters your minds eye creates this panorama view from scene to scene. hard social and moral issues were tackled. love shines and i was an absolute mess in the end. well done. Mel A Rowe never disappoints.

[Jackie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another wonderful story that will keep you reading. Sienna is leaving, how will Jake continue. Who will he choose. There’s danger and difficulty for his family. Loved how the author projected the emotions. Ready for more.

[Veronica Roche · Rating 5 out of 5]

good read

Both The Station were great reads. It was great how supportive the staff were to one another. I thoroughly enjoyed both books and couldn’t put them down.I had to keep reading till I was finished.

[Jackie Chambers · Rating 4 out of 5]

Enjoyable.

Life can be hard on out back stations but this series cover good -bad and crew to make you laugh and cry, enjoyable two part series.

[Jean · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is book two in The Oasis of The Outback Duology and it concludes Jake and Sienna’s story and omg it is definitely a must read and this book continues where book one left off. When Danbunnan Station was nominated for the Northern Cattle Station Competition Jake wasn’t happy about it and thought his father had done it because he had already said yes to the competition but Jake knew why they wanted to come here and there was no way that they were going to take away their legacy so a meeting was called and as usual Sienna came up with some amazing ideas and convinced everyone including Jake’s dad so now they had a lot of work to do if they were going to protect not only their legacy but also everyone’s future but will all their work pay off or leave them in even more debt only time will tell. The more time that Jake and Sienna spend together the more they fall in love with each other but with Jake being engaged to someone else so that he can save the station and Sienna’s time coming closer to her leaving they decide to make the best of the situation and spend as much time as they can together making every minute count even if they are both heartbroken by the decision that will have to be made but unfortunately there is no way out or is there. My heart absolutely broke for Jake and Sienna and everything that they were going through and I felt myself hoping that somewhere along the way a miracle will be found. Sienna was such a strong, caring, had a beautiful heart, protective of those that she cared about, great at business decisions, faithful, loved hard but through it all she never forgot what she had been through and the life that she had and just became more respected and resourceful and able to see what was needed and then we have Jake who is loyal, family meant everything to him, grumpy at times, a little bit broken at times, unsure and vulnerable sometimes, caring, faithful and grew into the strong man that he had always been inside with the help of Sienna and how she supported him through it all especially after what his father had done and put him and the family through and the attraction, chemistry, connection and love between Jake and Sienna was a sight to behold and I cried so many times while reading this book so make sure that you have the tissues ready because you are definitely going to need them. I absolutely loved this Duology and it is written in a way that you feel like you are there seeing and living through it all and the descriptions and places that is described you can picture in your mind. Wow Wow Wow what an amazing and emotional ending and I couldn’t put this book down as the storyline takes you in right from the first page and kept you turning the pages while on the edge of your seat wondering what the outcome will be for them all and I am totally addicted to this series. Mel A Rowe is an amazing author and writer and her books are definitely worth reading and you will not be disappointed and I can’t wait to read more books by her in the future.

[Knight Linda · Rating 5 out of 5]

A fantastic continuation as the story only gets better with the muster nearly over and the station competitions taking place with all of them looking for a high ranking to get the highest price for their beef. Sienna learned Jake was engaged to Angela, from the station next to them so they would be able to sell their beef at all, because of the chemical spill. The area had blacklisted Danbunnan livestock, as no better than petfood. Sienna was heart broken hearing of Jake's engagement, and she was not much happier hearing that it was just a ploy to sell the cattle. Then Danbunnan was nominated to participate in the competition which they had never been invited to do before as Jake's father was a judge back then. This was all new to Jake but the crew and Sienna were up to the task of finishing the cleanup around the main buildings. Jake was diversifying the products produced from Danbunnan and everything would be organic as he had banned chemicals after the spill. That meant their part of the competition would look different from the others, because they would not be able to afford to put on a rodeo, but they would showcase each of their products to the judges and other special guests as Sienna was searching privately for buyers, and she found them. That was when Jake discovered she started as a cook in a five star restaurant, but she owned a very successful consulting type firm that helped people get started in ventures and connect with whatever they need. There were surprises everywhere when you would least expect one to pop up. There was a bit of mystery throughout with some strange things happening that will eventually be explained. Sienna was special to everyone on Danbunnan, and they showed it in their protectiveness of her as they loved her food and her spunky attitude. Elliott her kitchen helper was an amazing character to beside her in her beginning projects and then the entertainment part for the competition. Even Sally the dog, played a big role in Sienna's life at Danbunnan, and Sienna gave Sally's life purpose once again. It was amazing to read this story an image this run down somewhat overgrown station be overtaken by this slip of a woman with her assistant cook at her side, the boss's sister, and her two children tackling project after project until others joined for the competition. It just seemed like a flower slowly starting to bloom in my mind so brightly, clean and fresh. The big question though would Jake and Sienna ever get their relationship figured out? I highly recommend reading both these books.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Sofie Sehested · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love love love “The station” vol. 1 and 2.

This review is for vol. 2 which is the amazing finale vol. of the series “The station” and what at final it is.
Mel A Rowe is such an amazing writer who pulls at your heartstrings every time you read her books.

In this book and series you get an epic family saga and an epic love story set in the Northern Territory in Australia. It is set on a big cattle station close to Elsie Creek (which we know from the Elsie Creek series by Mel A Rowe) and the station is the size of Greenland. So a lot can happen at this station.
In this vol. of the series Jake has to prove himself as the head of the station and that his ecological way of managing the station is the way to go. At the same time he works very close with the station’s relief cook and woman of all trades Sienna who helps him get a website and has a lot of connections to get him around all of the hurdles he runs into along the way.
At the same time we get a lot of history about the The Station and how it was started and build and all of the traditions that were formed along the way. All of that history we get from old diaries and recipes both for food and medicine that Sienna reads in secrets.

I love Sienna and Jakes love story and I got so enthralled in it that I almost read it in one day (keep in mind that I am not a very fast reader and the book is almost 500 pages).

I can definitely recommend this book and series to anyone who loves workplace romance, a lot of drama, a cattle station’s history, a family in shambles, jealousy, a very strong heroine with a lot of knowledge and humor, a hero fighting for his family and station but finds himself in love with a woman he can’t have and a beautiful story about found family.

I got everything I needed in this series and I can’t wait to see what Mel A Rowe comes up with next. Because almost all of her books and series are connected in someway and I still hope to get the romance of two characters in this book that I see as a couple and a very angsty romance;)!

I got this book from Booksprout and Mel A Rowe and this is my honest opinion and my voluntary review.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Jakki Frances · Rating 5 out of 5]

Let's start with the covers... I mean look at them - they're GORGEOUS! I've already hit my girl Mel up for physical copies of each; they're just too pretty not to have on my shelves, and likely I'll display them front-on because they are meant to be seen that way - half a hottie on each book, gotta get him together.

But it's what is within the covers that is even more special. The second half of Jake and Sienna's story is even better than the first. We find the secret to who Sienna 'really' is. We learn about Jake's personal life and why he tries so hard to keep Sienna at arm's length despite their attraction, while fighting the seemingly never-ending and non-winnable battle to keep the station and make it prosper... We see even more renovation design choices and Zombie hunting bright ideas that seem so totally unworkable and out of left field while simultaneously totally being something I'd not only want to take part in but would likely be an instigator.

If you want to know what the Ginger Reading Ninja is like in her life outside of the pages of a book - take a good look at Sienna; she's me (I like to think so but likely Mel has a differing opinion).

The first thing I said to Mel when I finished reading book 2 was -WHY??!!!! Why does it have to be a duo? Why is that the end? Why can't I have more? I love all these characters and their stories so much, and while I know we see some of them make cameos in her Dust series, I want more of them. On their station. Doing what they do.... OY MEL - MORE OK. I KNOW YOU HEAR ME. NO DON'T YOU TURN YOUR BACK AND SAY THAT THIS IS HOW THE STORY WENT! I WANT MORE I TELL YA! MORE!!!!

Anyway, rant over... Do yourself a favour. Lock the family out of the house for a few days, or better still, head into the outback (or beach, or bush, or whatever is in your area) yourself, roll out a swag and hunker down to read both books together. You'll be transported into my world, Mel's world - the Australian Outback, and you'll never regret spending time at Danbunnan Station.

[Ann-Maree · Rating 5 out of 5]

When I began reading book two of The Station, I faced a dilemma. Should I dive right in and read it all at once or savour it word by word, paragraph by paragraph, and page by page, dreading the very last page? As I found myself back in Danbunnan station, where book one ended, the end of Sienna's work contract loomed and Jake struggled to keep his family's legacy alive. They both knew they would have to say goodbye soon, but before they did, Jake discovered some family secrets about life on the station.

I thoroughly enjoyed these two books and highly recommend them. Mel A Rowe is a true outback storyteller who transports you into the story, making you feel like you're right in the middle of it all. I really hope this isn't the end of The Station, as I believe there could be more stories to be told about other people who live at Danbunnan Station.

Merged review:

When I began reading book two of The Station, I faced a dilemma. Should I dive right in and read it all at once or savour it word by word, paragraph by paragraph, and page by page, dreading the very last page? As I found myself back in Danbunnan station, where book one ended, the end of Sienna's work contract loomed and Jake struggled to keep his family's legacy alive. They both knew they would have to say goodbye soon, but before they did, Jake discovered some family secrets about life on the station.

I thoroughly enjoyed these two books and highly recommend them. Mel A Rowe is a true outback storyteller who transports you into the story, making you feel like you're right in the middle of it all. I really hope this isn't the end of The Station, as I believe there could be more stories to be told about other people who live at Danbunnan Station.

[Polli.p · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is volume 2 of The Station by Mel A Rowe and what an absolutely blinding part two this is!

Dripping with unsolved dilemmas and oozing with the aroma of morning coffee, life at Dunbannan seems settled. The relationship between Jake and Sienna is established as a secret, the homestead has been given a make over, and nothing new is on the horizon when Bob Cullen makes a decision that upends the peace and quiet.

This absolute gem of a twist changes the tempo from lazy, hot dusty days to frantic foraging for solutions to Jake's problems - financial and emotional. He now needs Sienna more than ever!

As usual I can't praise this author's work enough. Her signature ability at world building and imagery is exceptional: it's an immersive experience - you see, feel, smell every little detail. And those foods!! What can I say except God, I so wanted to be at that dining table!! Pure genius!

However, this story is more than a gastronomical tease (do you own a restaurant Ms Rowe?), it's a well paced wander through troubled lives, a search for acceptance, a starkly honest glimpse at outback life, a playground of hidden passions and a burning love story. It's evocative, irresistible, and a bone deep experience! This isn't just romance writing at it's finest, it's writing perfection!.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Texas · Rating 5 out of 5]

OASIS OF THE OUTBACK DUOLOGY:
The STATION, Vol. Two - The best way to read this well written story full of wonderful characters, and some not, interesting story lines and plenty of fun, adventure and entertainment is to have both books. Even the drama holds the reader's attention without the Stupidity Formula raising its idiotic head. No vulgar language, and the bit of sex was here and there, made this doulogy even better. Hard to put down. Source: Booksprout. 5*

The Station, Volume One - Aww man, there's more to the story. While not a cliffhanger, the tale isn't finished. Well written with many likeable characters and good story lines, it is easy to get lost in the pages. Forget the cuppa, ya need a large teapot to cut down on interruptions while reading this immersing story. Source: Booksprout. 5*
OASIS OF THE OUTBACK DUOLOGY.

The Sister Trip - This is a pick up and put down only when finished book. I enjoyed every page of the relationship between these two messed up sisters with their secrets, their father and all the twists and turns they came across on their trip.

Even Susie Homemaker was as tough as her independent big sister when push came to shove. There's drama, humor and love plenty in these pages. I want more from this author. 5*

[Karen · Rating 4 out of 5]

I hope you did not just blow by the disclaimer that you should read Volume One before Volume Two! If you did, you have no one to be mad at except yourself!

Jake has been working hard to save Danbunnan, his family's station. and to be acknowledged as his father's successor. But claiming his legacy and holding on to it could cost him the woman he loves. The neighboring stockmen are just waiting for him to fail so that they can get his family land dirt cheap. Additionally, Sienna's term as relief cook is nearing the end and there is no hope she will stay after it does.

Sienna faces the reality that Jake is the man she can't have and begins to protect her heart and prepare to leave at the end of her job. But how can she leave the land she has learned to love and the people who have become family to her? How can she leave Jake?.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[KL Cassanello · Rating 5 out of 5]

It's always a great week when I have a new book from this author. This epic story is Jake's attempt to save Danbunnan, the cattle station that's been in his family for generations. Sienna shows up as the temporary station cook, and upends everyone's life. They are so perfect for each other, but family and business drama keep them from being together. Publicly. Sienna is the most incredible woman, constantly reinventing herself, and I especially love that she doesn't take crap from anyone. Filled with amazing characters in a beautiful setting, Ms. Rowe has once again made me fall in love with her new book. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Malvina · Rating 4 out of 5]

Definitely read The Station 1 before you begin this, the story flows directly on, with the same setting and characters all heading to a resolution. If you thought things were tricky in Vol 1, this book is even more complicated, both from a family, a business, and a romance point of view. At times the detail threatened to overwhelm, but Mel A. Rowe has obviously put her heart and soul into the story to make it work. It was also nice to see cross-over characters from her Elsie Creek series pop into this story. I have only one question: what was Annie's motivation for doing what she did? Someone please tell me.

[Jeanne Richardson · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've read several books written by Mel A. Rowe; she is becoming one of my favorite authors. I can’t wait to read more of her books.

This is the second book in the Oasis of the Outback Duology; the story continues from the previous book and needs to be read in order.

I received a free copy of this book via booksprout and I’m voluntarily leaving a review.

[Kristi · Rating 5 out of 5]

The story line pulls you in and keeps you turning the pages. Warning, once you start reading you can't stop. The characters are realistic, enjoyable and well developed. You will definitely want this book and volume one on your TBR list and put them at the top of that list.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Rhonda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Enjoy a good family epic. Especially when there are cowboys involved. Entertaining reading when the characters have issues and problems they need to work through. Reading how they work through their issues and the people that they associate with to help. Sometimes the road is not an easy one. Good read.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[D. · Rating 5 out of 5]

This 2nd volume was amazing. Sienna was inspiring and Jake was as well. The surprises in this book brought understanding from the first book. I wanted to read and read and read this book. Now I am sad it is done. I hope their story continues. I want to see what Cones about with their family life.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Petra Moss · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely loved the second book and I am so sad the story is over. Mel Rowe brings the outback to you and makes you feel part of the story.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Karen Whiticker Loiterton · Rating 5 out of 5]

What an amazing book. I couldn't wait to read it after finishing Volume one.
Mel makes you feel like you know the characters personally and makes me want to visit the beautiful outback station.
I hope there is more stories coming for the rest of the people who live on Danbunnan Statio .

[Heather W · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Station (Oasis of the Outback Duology, #2) continues Jake and Sienna's story. This duology has amazing descriptions that bring you to the outback as you read their tale. Can their love survive the hardships that will face them or will this be the end?