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Tree Change
Forced to choose between the world she wants and the man she loves, Cassia opts for fame and fortune. But it's not enough—one taste and she's hooked again...
Despite her success in the Sydney art world, Cassia yearns for the idyllic life she once lead with Jake in their shack over looking the Pacific Ocean. Seeking closure she falls, like an addict, straight back into his arms, and out again equally quickly. Not only has he taken up with his brother's wife, but it seems they have a child.
Truth is, Jake's living a lie, sworn to secrecy, and hamstrung by the debt he owes his estranged family. But one glimpse of Cassia and he knows he cannot live without her. Her fey, artistic character and magical body possess his imagination and his heart. Can he convince her to trust him long enough to save the crumbling remains of their relationship?
Despite her success in the Sydney art world, Cassia yearns for the idyllic life she once lead with Jake in their shack over looking the Pacific Ocean. Seeking closure she falls, like an addict, straight back into his arms, and out again equally quickly. Not only has he taken up with his brother's wife, but it seems they have a child.
Truth is, Jake's living a lie, sworn to secrecy, and hamstrung by the debt he owes his estranged family. But one glimpse of Cassia and he knows he cannot live without her. Her fey, artistic character and magical body possess his imagination and his heart. Can he convince her to trust him long enough to save the crumbling remains of their relationship?
110 pages, ebook
First published November 1, 2012
3 people are currently reading
627 people want to read
About the author
Tea Cooper
28 books942 followersTea Cooper writes Australian contemporary and historical fiction. In a past life she was a teacher, a journalist and a farmer. These days she haunts museums and indulges her passion for storytelling.
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Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews
December 16, 2012
I read the first chapter of Tree Change over a year ago and have been eagerly waiting to see the rest - it didn't disappoint! The setting is beautiful, and I have a definite soft spot for characters like the artistic Cassie, who I instantly warmed to.
Both Cassie and Jake are passionate about preserving the natural beauty that surrounds them - and are passionate about each other. For me, one thing I really liked about 'Tree Change' was the message about the sacrifices we make in life, that seem large at the time but are ultimately small in the wider scheme of things. A great debut story that I stayed up late to finish - looking forward to reading the next of Tea's books.
Both Cassie and Jake are passionate about preserving the natural beauty that surrounds them - and are passionate about each other. For me, one thing I really liked about 'Tree Change' was the message about the sacrifices we make in life, that seem large at the time but are ultimately small in the wider scheme of things. A great debut story that I stayed up late to finish - looking forward to reading the next of Tea's books.
June 16, 2013
Tree Change is, when all things are said and done, a sweet romance story about two people who have an obvious chemistry, despite trying to keep themselves apart.
The first 25% was lovely. You got introduced to Cassia and Jake, you got to see Sydney and the South Coast through their eyes, the beauty in both locations despite them being striking opposites. I enjoyed the physical description, the uncommon use of groken glass to describe Jakes eyes. I loved that it was very vivid.
I too, loved the amazing and often rather amusing banter between the two, verbal, mental and physical. I loved being taken along for the all consuming ride of barely controlled lust and love that they both felt.
The incident that drove them apart was a different matter. While I can fully understand the situation, I don't believe that someone who was so in love with another could have continued along that path for so long. I think it was a valiant effort to give the reader insight into the characters, but in this instance I think it actually caused me to dislike them.
From there, things fell apart. I was very frustrated with the to-ing and fro-ing of the emotional state of both main characters. I know that this sort of thing would happen in real life, but I felt too much emphasis was given to it. It seemed to drag on way too long.
The last 10% of the book seemed extremely disjointed from the rest. I believed based on my initial introduction to Cassia and Jake that they had been together for a while prior to the split and that they had lived together and knew each other very well. They seemed able to 'read' each other well.
What bothered me with the last 10% of the book was the warring themes, the sudden acknowledgement of hidden past hurts and truths versus the clear 'knowing' of the other person's inner most workings/longings/desires. I was so utterly confused how someone could know another person that well, but not know certain things about them... certain BIG things. Certain things that you wouldn't keep from someone you love.
For this reason, Tree Change gets 3 stars, up until about 60-75% through it was tracking for a 4-4.5 stars.
On a positive note, I saw no typos or errors. Great work on that Tea.
**Note: I was provided with an electronic version of this book in return for an honest review**
The first 25% was lovely. You got introduced to Cassia and Jake, you got to see Sydney and the South Coast through their eyes, the beauty in both locations despite them being striking opposites. I enjoyed the physical description, the uncommon use of groken glass to describe Jakes eyes. I loved that it was very vivid.
I too, loved the amazing and often rather amusing banter between the two, verbal, mental and physical. I loved being taken along for the all consuming ride of barely controlled lust and love that they both felt.
The incident that drove them apart was a different matter. While I can fully understand the situation, I don't believe that someone who was so in love with another could have continued along that path for so long. I think it was a valiant effort to give the reader insight into the characters, but in this instance I think it actually caused me to dislike them.
From there, things fell apart. I was very frustrated with the to-ing and fro-ing of the emotional state of both main characters. I know that this sort of thing would happen in real life, but I felt too much emphasis was given to it. It seemed to drag on way too long.
The last 10% of the book seemed extremely disjointed from the rest. I believed based on my initial introduction to Cassia and Jake that they had been together for a while prior to the split and that they had lived together and knew each other very well. They seemed able to 'read' each other well.
What bothered me with the last 10% of the book was the warring themes, the sudden acknowledgement of hidden past hurts and truths versus the clear 'knowing' of the other person's inner most workings/longings/desires. I was so utterly confused how someone could know another person that well, but not know certain things about them... certain BIG things. Certain things that you wouldn't keep from someone you love.
For this reason, Tree Change gets 3 stars, up until about 60-75% through it was tracking for a 4-4.5 stars.
On a positive note, I saw no typos or errors. Great work on that Tea.
**Note: I was provided with an electronic version of this book in return for an honest review**
December 29, 2012
A MUST READ TALE OF LOVE AND LOSS.
From the first chapter of Tree Change, I cared. I cared about the characters and what had happened and what would happen to them. A riveting mix of romance and drama this debut novel by Tea Cooper is set in Sydney and the north coast. The settings are depicted with vibrancy and colour, as are the characters. Tea’s grasp of characterization, descriptive language, plot and themes of love, loss and preservation have an originality that shines through and embraces the reader until the final page. Congratulations Tea and I’m looking forward to the release of Lily’s Leap!
From the first chapter of Tree Change, I cared. I cared about the characters and what had happened and what would happen to them. A riveting mix of romance and drama this debut novel by Tea Cooper is set in Sydney and the north coast. The settings are depicted with vibrancy and colour, as are the characters. Tea’s grasp of characterization, descriptive language, plot and themes of love, loss and preservation have an originality that shines through and embraces the reader until the final page. Congratulations Tea and I’m looking forward to the release of Lily’s Leap!
December 17, 2012
I could taste the salt on the sea breeze as I lost myself in this delightful story about Cassia and Jake. My heart bled for Cassia when she returned to the home they had both shared to find she had been replaced by another woman. I can't reveal more in case I spoil it for other readers but not is all as it seems.
A fabulous tale of love lost and found with a decent dash of mystery to keep the heart pounding.
Congratulations on your first release Tea Cooper. I look forward to more of your work.
A fabulous tale of love lost and found with a decent dash of mystery to keep the heart pounding.
Congratulations on your first release Tea Cooper. I look forward to more of your work.
January 4, 2013
I really enjoyed Tree Change.
Strong characterization, great conflicts and characters I really liked! The descriptions are so vivid I really felt like I've been to The Shack. Lovely scenery!
Cassia and Jake really love each other, but because her lack of trust and his promise to help his brother they can't be together. I kept turning the pages so see what was coming next!
Wonderful book! Will definitely read more from Ms. Cooper.
Strong characterization, great conflicts and characters I really liked! The descriptions are so vivid I really felt like I've been to The Shack. Lovely scenery!
Cassia and Jake really love each other, but because her lack of trust and his promise to help his brother they can't be together. I kept turning the pages so see what was coming next!
Wonderful book! Will definitely read more from Ms. Cooper.
December 12, 2012
Read this if you like second chance romances (I do!), if you like beach settings, and if you like a dollop of suspense with your romance. Cassia is a sculptor and does some amazing things with driftwood. I loved the scenes set in Sydney - felt like I was reallyt here. Great pick for a holiday read.
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February 13, 2014I am a great fan of Tea Cooper’s Australian home-grown romances and Tree Change is another beautifully crafted, heart-warming love story. Cassia has been forced to make the decision to further her art career in the city, leaving the idyllic beach shack she shared with her lover, Jake. But she has not only left her old life behind but also her heart. It was never her intention to end the relationship but Jake appears to have slipped easily into a new life with another woman, a baby and a secret. Jake never stopped loving Cassia but it’s too dangerous to tell her the truth and his betrayal has destroyed her ability to trust him.
Tea Cooper renders in vivid detail the stunning north coast of New South Wales and The Shack as well as the unique character of the City of Sydney. I could feel the sand between my toes and the soft warmth of the ocean as well as see the changing colours on the sails of the Opera House at sunset. This book not only had well-developed characters and a great storyline but also intrigue, danger, love lost and found and a fascinating peek into the world of contemporary sculpture. Wonderful book.
Tea Cooper renders in vivid detail the stunning north coast of New South Wales and The Shack as well as the unique character of the City of Sydney. I could feel the sand between my toes and the soft warmth of the ocean as well as see the changing colours on the sails of the Opera House at sunset. This book not only had well-developed characters and a great storyline but also intrigue, danger, love lost and found and a fascinating peek into the world of contemporary sculpture. Wonderful book.
March 1, 2013
This book was romantic, refreshing, and addicting. I could not put it down once I started reading it. Cassia and Jake were made for each other, the plot had some unexpected turns and overall it left me laughing, crying, and at times holding my breath.
The book is well written, the scenery is described so vividly that I can see, hear and smell everything. Most of all I love how the main characters really knew each other. You get a definite sense they belong together despite the circumstances.
Highly recommended.
The book is well written, the scenery is described so vividly that I can see, hear and smell everything. Most of all I love how the main characters really knew each other. You get a definite sense they belong together despite the circumstances.
Highly recommended.
January 17, 2013
2.5 stars. The first 25% was wonderful. I was dying to know why/how 2 people who obviously still love each other could be apart. But after 35%, the rest of the story tested my patience. I just wanted him to tell her.
May 10, 2014
Quick enjoyable read.Cassia and Jake have a sweet romance.
January 26, 2015
What a book!! Tea Cooper had me at every page wanting more
Thankyou I loved it
Thankyou I loved it
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November 5, 2023Kindle
February 3, 2014
Cassia wants to find closure after her disastrous breakup with Jake and a move to Sydney for her art career. She reconnects with him even though she believes he was unfaithful to her. Worse, when she does, it appears he has a child. With this new revelation, she’s more determined than ever to pour herself into her career and forget the man she still loves. What she doesn’t know is that there’s something more sinister going on, and that Jake is caught between helping his brother and going after the only woman he’s ever wanted. This is a sexy, emotionally-charged read. There were some twists I didn’t expect, and some moments where it seemed it wouldn’t work out for them. I held my breath until the end. Then I smiled.
April 17, 2013
This was OK. It was nice to read an Aussie based book for a change. I loved the main characters and the setting. The first quarter of the book was good. It then got a bit boring in the middle with Jake not telling Cassia why they couldn't be together. The ending felt a bit rushed following all that suspense and it seemed to skip forward very rapidly and miss out on (what I felt) was important information. It is for these reasons that I didn't rate it any higher.
February 4, 2015
Beautifully written, and a captivating read.
July 20, 2016
Absolutely loved this book. The story line was great. It was a real page turner.
Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews