Flame Tree Hill

by Mandy Magro

Kirsty Mitchell is ready to come home. After a tragic accident that left her scarred, she fled overseas. Now, three years later, she’s finally returning to Flame Tree Hill, her beloved family farm.
But at twenty-five Kirsty isn’t prepared for the terrifying new
challenge ahead: breast cancer.Kirsty’s never been a quitter and that’s not about to change. But can her budding romance with local vet Aden bear the strain?
As she battles with chemotherapy and as her past threatens to
overwhelm her, Kirsty realises you can never take anything – or
anyone – for granted. Drawing strength from her family and the
beauty of Far North Queensland, Kirsty finally understands what
she must do.
A lyrical and heartwarming testament to the power of love – and forgiveness.

Genres: Australia, Romance, Fiction

272 pages, Paperback

First published February 27, 2013

About the author

Mandy Magro lives in Cairns, Far North Queensland, with her daughter, Chloe Rose. With pristine aqua-blue coastline in one direction, and sweeping rural landscapes in the other, she describes her home as heaven on earth. A passionate woman, and a romantic at heart, she loves writing about soul-deep love, the Australian rural way of life, and all the wonderful characters that live there.

Reviews

[Brenda · Rating 4 out of 5]

Kirsty Mitchell was more than ready to return to her home in Far North Queensland - the property aptly named Flame Tree Hill – after her three-year absence. She’d loved her time working in London but was glad her working visa was almost up. She had missed her brother Robbie and her parents, plus her horse Cash, more than she’d realized she would. Arriving at the Cairns Airport and being met by her brother, as well as Aden Maloney – the guy she’d always had a crush on – was surreal. But driving up the driveway to the farm, lined with the flame trees that had given the property its name, Kirsty was finally content.

But the breast cancer diagnosis was a dreadful shock. At twenty-five years of age, Kirsty felt violated – she was too young. What would the next few months bring as Kirsty battled cancer with the chemotherapy drug ravaging her body? Would she live to have a future? Or was her life over?

Flame Tree Hill is an emotional, heart wrenching ride by Aussie author Mandy Magro. A rural romance set in a beautiful part of the country, it deals with the trauma of cancer, the emotions involved and the support of family and friends. Recommended.

[Sharon · Rating 4 out of 5]

Flame Tree Hill by Aussie author Mandy Magro is a book I couldn’t put down. This book is so much more than a rural romance. It touches on a topic that most of us have come across or been affected by in one form or another, and I believe Mandy Magro has done an excellent job in writing about this and has woven this through the story perfectly. RECOMMENDED.

[Jenny · Rating 5 out of 5]

Flame Tree Hill is a lovely rural romance about forgiveness, grieved, guilt and second chance of love. Kirsty Mitchell was coming home to her family farm after three years in England. However, Kirsty did not accept to see her childhood crush, Aden Maloney with her brother Robbie at the Cairns Airport. Aden Maloney came back to Hidden Valley and staying with Robbie on Kirsty family farm after his divorce. The readers of Flame Tree Hill will continue to follow Aden Maloney and Kirsty Mitchell to see if they have a second chance at love.

I enjoyed reading Flame Tree Hill. I do love Mandy Magro books especially the way, she portrayed her characters and intertwined then with each other. Flame Tree Hill is well written and research by Mandy Magro. The plot of Flame Tree Hill engaged me from the first page which allowed me to finish the book the same day as I started to read it.

Flame Tree Hill highlights the importance for everyone men and women to check for lumps in their breasts. The readers of Flame Tree Hill will learn about the use and benefits of acupuncture on animals. Also, readers of Flame Tree Hill will start to understand how devasting chemo treatment is on a person.

I recommend this book.

[Paula · Rating 3 out of 5]

A confronting glimpse into the daily physical and mental suffering of all women battling breast cancer. Although I did enjoy the storyline, there were aspects that I struggled with - although not as common, it is not impossible for one so young to be facing such an aggressive cancer and Aden was just too nice which didn't make things "real" for me.

The inclusion of a number of characters also suffering or who have suffered and survived cancer really brought home how widespread and indiscriminate cancer is and really makes you question your mortality.

As with most romance stories, there were a number of "obstacles" which the characters had to overcome to arrive at their "happily ever after". However the author threw in one curve-ball that I felt was totally unnecessary to the overall storyline and, in my opinion, trivialised in the context of things. This curve-ball is something I have zero tolerance for and affects not only one person, but families and even whole communities, but it seemed as though it was touched on for 3 minutes and that was the end of it - no repercussions!

Overall I enjoyed the storyline, but found the characters a little too "good" and the constant mention of the "pannikin of tea" a little annoying - a simple cup of tea would have sufficed. However once the storyline hit that one major curve-ball, it changed everything for me and I found myself asking why nothing was being done about it, it was just being swept under the carpet in favour of the "happily ever after" ending. The story would have been more credible without this revelation which left a bitter taste in my mouth.

I would have preferred to be able to give this book a 2.5 star rating because there were elements that I enjoyed and those which I didn't, so I've been generous in opting for 3 stars.

[Sue Gerhardt Griffiths · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is Mandy Magro's third book in the rural romance genre. I've enjoyed reading many rural romances over the years. there's just something cosy and real about them. I live on the coast and I love it but I can also appreciate people enjoying a beautiful and serene rural lifestyle. These types of books hold me captive pretty much from the first line until the last word as they take me to many stunning areas of rural/outback Australia. And Flame Tree Hill is one such book, it is set in Far North QLD, my absolute favourite part of Australia. Mandy Magro paints a breathtaking picture of Mareeba and the fictional town of Hidden Valley's countryside. The detail of the landscape is exquisite, I look forward to the day when I can set foot in this magnificent region once again however, there's a darker side to this tale, the author introduces the reader to Kirsty the central character in this story and her battle with breast cancer. Her aunt Kulsoom plays a huge part in helping her deal with the trauma of it all. I enjoyed the interaction between the two - I would love an aunt Kulsoom - such a beautiful soul. Tissues are a must as the reader is taken on a highly emotional journey. And Yep, I cried throughout most of this book but towards the end a delightful happy ever after generated a bunch of happy tears.

[Vicki Robe · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a great read with a touching storyline. The characters were interesting and multi-layered during trying times that took twists and turns. Life can be complicated but communication is key to sorting problems out!

[Sarah Molineaux · Rating 5 out of 5]

Couldn't put this book down. Brilliant and brilliant author indeed

[Shelleyrae at Book'd Out · Rating 3 out of 5]

Flame Tree Hill is the name of twenty four year old Kirsty Mitchell's family cattle station, but its been a while since she has been home for any length of time. After a devastating car accident, Kirsty left the farm, first to study and then to the UK for work haunted by the events that killed three of her closest friends. But with her employment contract up, Kirsty is finally feeling strong enough to confront her past and is looking forward to returning to the North Queensland tropics.
Kirsty is delighted to be collected from the airport by her big brother, but is taken by surprise at his companion. Aden, the older brother of Kirsty's best friend who died in the crash and Kirsty's long time crush, is establishing a mobile vet service in the area and is now her housemate. Despite Kirsty's reservations, neither can deny their mutual attraction but their fledgling relationship is severely tested when Kirsty is diagnosed with an aggressive breast cancer.

Flame Tree Hill is the third novel set in rural Australia by Mandy Magro, a country girl from Far North Queensland and unfortunately I am conflicted when it comes to my opinion of it, despite enjoying several elements of the story.

I thought the writing, and in particularly the dialogue, was a lot more polished that in Jacaranda, where I struggled somewhat with her writing voice in a way I couldn't quite articulate.

I again loved Magro's distinctly Australian settings which draws on her own experience and knowledge of the land. The author brought not only Flame Tree Hill station but also the community of Hidden Valley to life.

I admired the author's willingness to tackle the issue of breast cancer and its distressing physical and emotional effects, particularly with a such a young character. Kirsty's journey through treatment is frightening and confronting yet Magro handles it both honestly and compassionately.

I could sympathise with Kirsty's distress regarding her diagnosis, her fears regarding her prognosis and her very real struggle to face the challenges she is confronted with. I think she copes admirably with everything and her moments of weakness, anger and frustration are a natural consequence of the illness.

Aden proves to be an incredibly caring and patient hero, despite Kirsty's diagnosis he doesn't hesitate to give her his full support and whatever assurances and strength he can. Unfortunately Kirsty finds it difficult to accept the love he offers, especially as her sense of guilt and shame grows as her emotional guards are weakened by her battle against cancer.

But then the author made a plot decision within the story that left me quite horrified. I can't say too much without revealing a major spoiler but I'd be remiss not to mention that for me, it compromised the integrity of the primary characters and as a result my feelings about the entire book. I'm not sure if another reader will feel the same about the choice Magro makes in Flame Tree Hill but for me it was strongly affecting and I even deliberately delayed my review to see if my indignation would fade but it hasn't, hence my quandary.

[Stacey Moles · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was my first Mandy Magro book that I read. It certainly won't be my last. a real page turner & a hard to put downer...

[Beccabeccabooks · Rating 4 out of 5]

After being involved in a car accident which she was the sole survivor, Kirsty Mitchell has been living in the UK for the past three years. She had left her home of Flame Tree Hill behind, as well as the horrific memories.

Now, it's time for Kirsty to return to her beloved property and family. Also returning to the area is vet Aden Maloney, whom is Kirsty's brother Robbie's best mate. Aden had been living in the city, until his marriage broke down. For years, he's been withholding his love for Kirsty, and had never acted on it. Little did he know that Kirsty also had one major crush on him.

It doesn't take too long for this pair to get their act together! Tragically, it only takes one regular checkup for Kirsty to be diagnosed with breast cancer. If the diagnosis and treatment hadn't already taken a toll on the young woman, she's also been suffering from nightmares. Poor Kirsty is clearly suffering from PTSD as well- you see, the accident she was in killed Aden's sister Bec.

As her cancer journey progresses, Kirsty starts getting overwhelmed with all the sweetness Aden is showering her with. She also doesn't want Aden to go through another loss. So she makes the very hard decision to break up with him. Before she does, she must talk to him about something important... She was the one behind the wheel that night.

Will Aden ever find it in his heart to forgive the one true love of his life? Let's just say things become very complicated when his ex, Tammy makes a shock reappearance!

Kirsty's cancer journey is tough and harrowing, yet inspiring. It's been written with a lot of care. My sister has had her own cancer story, and knowing what she went through made me read this in a completely different mindset.

This is quite a sweet story, tinged with a lot of emotion.

🌟🌟🌟🌟💫/5

[Jo · Rating 4 out of 5]

Flame Tree Hill
By Mandy Magro

Summery courtesy of goodreads.com
Kirsty Mitchell is ready to come home. After a tragic accident that left her scarred, she fled overseas. Now, three years later, she’s finally returning to Flame Tree Hill, her beloved family farm.
But at twenty-five Kirsty isn’t prepared for the terrifying new
challenge ahead: breast cancer.Kirsty’s never been a quitter and that’s not about to change. But can her budding romance with local vet Aden bear the strain?
As she battles with chemotherapy and as her past threatens to
overwhelm her, Kirsty realises you can never take anything – or
anyone – for granted. Drawing strength from her family and the
beauty of Far North Queensland, Kirsty finally understands what
she must do.
A lyrical and heartwarming testament to the power of love – and forgiveness.

Review
Congratulations to Mandy Magro on successfully tackling the delicate subject of breast cancer and adding a heart wrenching story that had me hooked from the first chapter, due to its subtle intensity and emotions it invoked. I laughed, I cried and was thoroughly swept away by Adan and Kirsty's story.

Adan - what a man he had strength, he was thoughtful and supplied Kirsty with support, love and the knowledge that he had her back no matter what the outcome. Kirsty - is a fighter, but struggles with her emotions and illness ( and who can blame her) , I loved watching her grow in her confidence and come to realizations that love and life are worth fighting for.
I'd never read Mandy Magro before but she charmed me with her writing and has made me a fan.
Highly recommended.
4.5 Stars

[Ali Hickling · Rating 4 out of 5]

Flame Tree Hill, written by Mandy Magro, is the story of 25-year old Kirsty: her love for teenage-crush Aden - who happens to be her big brothers best friend, her passion for the country life, her personal battle with breast-cancer and her soul-crushing guilt over an accident from long ago.

That's a lot to cover.

Mandy Magro has a talent for describing scenery in vivid and delightfully prosed detail. At times the words had a rhythm and melody of their own, it was like a lyrical scene from fantasia, with graceful movement and delicate colour. I found myself stopping and being somewhat awed at Magro's skill, wishing I could one day write such poetry, woven so deliciously into the story.

I loved the characters. All of them felt so well-rounded. They had personality, voice, colour all of their own. The characters reflecting this the most were the leading loves - Kirsty and Aden, and also Kulsoom, who I found to be a beautiful soul indeed.

I liked the photography element. This gave Mandy opportunity to display the aforementioned ability to bring the country to glorious life, while building Kirsty's personality and giving her motivation throughout her battle.

For full review:
http://wordleberry.com/2013/07/24/aus...

[Craig and Phil · Rating 4 out of 5]

https://www.instagram.com/happyvalley...

[Imogheena Farandel · Rating 5 out of 5]

I found this one so hard to read. I've never been through anything like this. So it was awful to live it through the book. I kept thinking 'is this authentic? is this how it really is?' as every so often I've come across stuff in Mandy Magro's books where it really doesn't ring true and I know that coz I've got personal experience.

So that left me questioning how authentic it was. But then again hey, even if she didn't hit the mark, I assume she came pretty close. Which was more than I've ever been before, thank goodness.

I kept asking why the hell I was reading it. I'm reading for pleasure, not to experience trauma! But it kept me going. Coz that's the author's talent. Good storytelling that keeps you hooked in. So there. She got me to go through a sort of vicarious experience I didn't really want to have because she is such a great storyteller. I was left going 'burbleburble' after it. But it was a good book. Really good.

[Gillian Milne · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is an easy read. I found the emotional turmoil of the main character, Kirsty, interesting. Her emotional and psychological struggle real. However, like several other people who have reviewed the book, I found Aiden too perfect . He is every woman's dream man. No flaws! Can express himself like no other Aussie male has ever done before! Also the author tries too hard to make the book Australian! There are ockerisms which are just too much ! And the PANNIKAN of tea? Really? A light read which I am enjoying - just rolling my eyes occasionally! And by the end of the story..... I'm afraid to say it,but, Kirsty is a brat!

[Stacey Houllis · Rating 4 out of 5]

A beautiful story of a young woman's fight with breast with Breast Cancer and how it takes its toll on your body as fight this disease. It is the story of Kristy Mitchell after coming back home after working overseas. She left after the car accident she was in with her friends and her as the survivor. Kristy finds love with Aden her brothers best mate and his sister died in the car crash. It is the story also how cancer can affect the relationships of people around you and how emotions can run high.

[Bettina · Rating 5 out of 5]

Not many people aren't brave enough to discuss breast cancer in their books, so well done Mandy! It was a real eye opener. There were many tears along the way, but also some laughter too. For Aden to stick by Kirsty throughout her battle just shows how strong love can really bee. Kirsty's battle with breast cancer brought to mind Belinda Emmett's same struggle. If only her outcome could have been different. Was nice to see this book have a happy ending.

[Gabrielle · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great read, Australian based story set in Queensland. The author has done a really good job of the storyline. What the main character goes through in the story is very well detailed and takes the reader on an emotional journey to find true love and how to appreciate life even more :)

[Jessy · Rating 5 out of 5]

An awesome story of love, friendship, family and forgiveness. The hard truth of Cancer and its side effects on one’s life and well being is described so well that it swells tears in your eyes. Loved this book from start to finish.

[Tracey Charlton · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beautifully written romance, with some heart wrenching, real life moments that will resound with many readers. Three of my girlfriends had a similar battle, sadly one didn't make it. I laughed, cried and sighed at least once, on almost every page. I knocked it over in record time.

[Jaye · Rating 5 out of 5]

The most powerful book I have read this year. Tissues are a must for this emotive story of a young woman's battle. Loved every heartfelt moment.

[Maria Pryor · Rating 5 out of 5]

another great book

[Kulsoom Ahmed · Rating 5 out of 5]

It was very close to the heart. Have known a number of women who suffered from breast cancer. An emotional read with a realistic view of the emotional rollercoaster that they go through.

[Caroline · Rating 5 out of 5]

Too sad to read last thing at night, but another great story of FNQ and its strong country folk.

[Corinne · Rating 4 out of 5]

Mandy you make me laugh out loud, cry, and fall in love with all the characters of your novels. My heart goes out to all the strong woman who fight breast cancer you all rock!!!!

[Roz ~ My Written Romance · Rating 5 out of 5]

Full review to come. 5 out of 5.

Couldn't put it down.

[Jo-Anne Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

What can I say a very moving story from the heart, that may me cry and it cover the topic very well of breast cancer.

[Gaylene johns · Rating 5 out of 5]

loved this book fab read (memories of my bestie who went through breast cancer twice and sadly lost her life just 12 months ago )

[Susan · Rating 4 out of 5]

Lovely story. Kirsty's health battle was a real page turner & several late nights in those parts!

[Lisa Mcmaugh · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book.