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Southern Cowboys #3

From the Outback

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Although desperate to get out of her dead end job, Sami is cynical when she hears of an inheritance from the grandfather she never knew. But once she and her young brother arrive in the beautiful valley, she discovers they are not wanted...especially by the sexy vineyard owner next door.
Will she persevere and make a home for them, or give in and take the easy money when the going gets tough?

168 pages, Kindle Edition

First published October 19, 2013

32 people are currently reading
96 people want to read

About the author

Ann B. Harrison

71 books278 followers
I swear I was born with a book in my hand and that is how I spent most of my childhood. That was fine until I got older and the voices in my head demanded to be heard and I started to write.
The voices are no quieter but there are less of them.

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5 stars
124 (46%)
4 stars
74 (27%)
3 stars
47 (17%)
2 stars
14 (5%)
1 star
8 (2%)
Displaying 1 - 12 of 12 reviews
Profile Image for Brenda.
5,108 reviews3,022 followers
November 2, 2014
After pulling a double shift in the pub she worked at in Alice Springs, Sami did not want to be woken early to a phone call. And then, to top it off, the stuffy person on the end of the line informed her she had to appear in his office in Singleton, NSW to hear the reading of a will – apparently she and her younger brother Garth had a grandfather that neither of them had known about. The devastation and grief of losing their mother just a few months earlier was still raw – Sami was cynical and stubborn; this was all a cruel joke wasn’t it?

As they neared Singleton in Sami’s old vehicle, they tried to prepare themselves for what lay ahead. But learning that the inheritance of the beautiful old homestead and farm was real was a shock; they now had a home, a farm with horses and cattle, old Tibby who was their grandfather’s right hand man and no further money problems. Sami wished their mother were still alive to see it.

The next door property was a vineyard – the Hunter Valley was renown for the delicious wines in the region. But when Sami found herself being pressured to sell, her stubborn nature asserted itself once again - no amount of bullying would make her leave their new home...not even by the delectable owner, Mason…

I thoroughly enjoyed From the Outback by Aussie author Ann B Harrison. The settings of both the outback with the red dust and dry air, and the beauty of the Hunter Valley (which I know well) was so well described by the author that I felt I was there. I loved Tibby, and enjoyed Garth’s character as well. Sami was a feisty, stubborn young woman who had been knocked down so many times she had trouble finding her way up again. A light and entertaining rural romance that wasn’t too heavy on the romance. Highly recommended.

With thanks to the author for my copy to read and review.
Profile Image for Jonel.
1,717 reviews311 followers
December 15, 2013
This novel is so real. There is nothing farfetched or out of this world that happens. Everything is completely plausible and even probable. The story itself is emotional and heartfelt. It is in essence a story about overcoming the worst of hardships, yet it is so much more. Harrison’s understated, mellow, yet still vivid descriptions craw you into the world that she’s created. Her use of the real as opposed to the worst case scenario makes it easy to relate to, thus incorporate yourself into, the story. I definitely feel like I’ve set foot in Oz after reading this tale.

The characters were amazing as well. I really appreciate how strong and independent the main character was. She also was less than perfect, allowing readers to relate to her on a personal level, because you do get to know her quite well. The supporting cast in this novel is divided into 2 groups: those who are verging on main character status and those who help propel the story forward. The first group are extremely well developed, becoming individuals that you feel you’ve met in the real world. The second group has a range of development that pertains directly to their role in the story. Overall, Harrison has created a brilliant cast to carry her story forward.

Final thoughts? I definitely can’t wait to dig into more by this talented author. However, I must say that I was dying for an Aussie Shiraz by then end of the novel. Be warned!

Please note that I received this novel free of charge from the author in exchange for an honest review.
Profile Image for Patty.
22 reviews2 followers
November 18, 2015
Another great Outback romance from Ann B Harrison. I got caught up in this story line strait away. Strong willed Sami inherits a property from her grandfather. With her brother Garth in tow she moves next door to Mason, the sexy vineyard owner. Tempers and sparks fly. The tension and romantic connection between Sami and Mason were sizzling and kept me turning the pages.

I can't wait to read more books from this wonderful author.
Profile Image for Christi Snow.
Author 69 books738 followers
January 27, 2014
My Review:
Do not judge this book by the story description that has been put with it. It's truly not a very good representation of this story. This story is about Sami. She's a very proud, very stubborn girl who's had a lot of hard licks over her lifetime. She grew up on a farm in the Outback and truly never had much interaction with other people because her family farm was so remote. But when her mother died, leaving Sami destitute with a young brother to take care of, they had to sell the farm and she went to work in town as a barmaid. The towns people looked down on her and she developed a screw-you attitude. It's the only way she survived.

So she's a bit leery when she finds out she's inherited a ranch right outside of Sydney, especially when the sleazy solicitor immediately talks down to her and tries to convince her to sell it. She goes into the whole situation with her back up. See, the solicitor's son owns the neighboring vineyard and wants part of her property for his plantings. Dad wants to make sure he gets it any way possible. But his son, Mason, is not that way. He's willing to accept that Sami doesn't want to sell. It's disappointing, but he can make other plans. That's the basic set-up of the story.

This is a story set on a prosperous ranch in Australia. Next door is the vineyard. I loved the scenes set in Mason's vineyard...the created such a pretty setting.

The hardest part about this book is getting past Sami's character flaws. She's extremely prickly and defensive. She attacks with the slightest provocation especially when she's feeling cornered. She's not an easy character to love just because she is so harsh and hard, but she's had to become that way to survive all the heartache in her life. Plus she just truly hasn't been around many people besides her family and the ones she has been around, haven't exactly been kind.

Mason sees all that but he likes the honesty of it. Most of the girls he's dated have been Sydney socialites who are beyond fake. He's intrigued by Sami and the fact that she's completely honest about who she is.

There's are two other characters in Sami's world that are worth mentioning...the ranch hand/manager- Tibby and her little brother- Garth. I love how both these guys call Sami out when she's over the top or wrong. I also really liked that she's a super-prideful girl, but is always willing to apologize when she's wrong.

As an American, I enjoyed this view into Australian ranch life. Overall, it was an entertaining little read. There were a few minor editing hiccups especially in the first half of the book, but if you can overlook that, this might be a book for you. I certainly enjoyed my escape to this Australian ranch.

I received a complimentary copy of this book in return for an honest review.
Profile Image for P. Reads.
58 reviews4 followers
August 19, 2014
If you like toohead strong heroine and too good to be true hero, than From the Outback is a book for you.

Only when Sami gets a call from the solicitors she learns that she inherited a farm from her grandfather. She takes her younger brother Garth and sets south to take it over.

Everything would be picture perfect if the solicitor wouldn't be so persistent and forced her to sell the property to his son - the next door vineyard owner Mason.

Head stronged as her grandfather she never knew she refuses almost every suggestion that comes from 'his' side, until...

The story is well written and I liked it but somehow the heroin was unfortunately one of my least favourites under Ann's pen. Not because of 'bad' language Sami uses, but - well lets face it... I just don't get along well with too subborn people (or characters, for that matter).

Easy and quick read, well written.
Profile Image for Robin Leigh.
Author 2 books5 followers
January 3, 2014
Feisty Sami and her sweet younger brother paint a sympathetic picture of a couple of orphans trying to find themselves when slapped with an unexpected inheritance. Barely old enough to work, Sami takes on her sickly little brother when first their dad and then their mom die. It's not any easier when they are thrust into a world of well-to-do farmers in the fabled Hunter Valley, especially handsome vintner neighbor Mason who wants their land for his grapes, but not as much as he wants Sami. Toss in the scheming city-girl ex who will do anything to make Sami feel as small as she always had, and you have a great romp through the Outback! A grand Holidays read this year!
Profile Image for Lori ◡̈.
1,115 reviews
September 12, 2025
🦘🦘What in the holy Outback hell was this? 🦘🦘

🙅🏻‍♀️Never have I ever read a book with such an unpleasant heroine. Ever!

🌵Samantha Grace Rose Darling - 21, inherited a cattle farm from a grandfather she had never met. She was THE bitchiest FMC that I have ever had the displeasure to follow along with in my 25+ years of reading romance. Right from the very first paragraph all the way to the abrupt somewhat-happy-for-now ending, she: constantly glared, growled, and spat in anger, slammed all doors, stomped her feet, was foul-mouthed to the elderly, strangers, new neighbors…everyone she comes in contact with is blessed with her prickly (🌵), confrontational, and extremely defensive attitude.

⁉️Why was she such a little pill to everyone around her? Had she had an abusive, traumatic childhood? No. Because her loving dad passed away a few years back, then her loving mother got sick and passed away, which left Samantha in charge of huge medical bills and taking care of her sweet teenage brother. Yes, it was unfortunate and extremely stressful what she went thru for a few years, but that is not reason enough to be so nasty years later to every single person she comes in contact with.

🍷Mason - her unfortunate neighbor that was wanting to buy some small part of her land with hopes to expand his winery. I think this poor sap had to have been dipping into the wine barrels and taste testing one too many times, as he found her cursing and surly behavior amusing. Charmed his socks right off, it did. He was a huge doormat that spoke like a 40 year old woman.

✍️For a better review, with more examples of quotes, check out my Buddy Read partners review: Olga’s review

✨Sami’s first time speaking with her 70 yr old ranch hand:
“Cuss a lot, don't you? Sound just like your grandfather, he could spout off a mouthful when it suited him too. Don't sound right though coming from a lady."
Sami crowed with laughter, slapping her leg. "No lady here Tibby, get used to it.”


✨Sami’s first time speaking with the MMC (their meet cute):
“Fuck’s sake, do you always creep up on people?" - her.
"I actually didn't creep up, I casually walked up the rows as I do everyday making no effort to hide my appearance. Sorry if I scared you.” - to MMC (love at first sight).

✨Sami speaking with the MMC (her asthmatic brother forgot to carry along his inhaler, had an asthma attack at the MMCs house, the MMC called paramedics, Sami insisted it was all MMCs fault):
“If anything happens to him, you are dead."
Mason looked over at Sami, the quiet words ringing in his ears. She was obviously upset and he turned his attention back to the vehicle in front of them and the trip to the hospital.”


✨Sami being Sami, ignoring and bulldozing over the medical staff, and assaulting the MMC:
“Get them out." The doctor spoke crisply to the nurse who approached Sami and Mason, whipping the curtain closed between them.
"Please go and take a seat in the waiting area. The doctors need to work on your brother and we will let you know how he is as soon as we can."
"No, I'm not leaving him." Sami pushed the nurse out of the way and tried to go back into the emergency cubicle where Garth lay.
Mason reached her in a couple of quick strides and put his arms around her. "You have to listen. They don't need you in the way."
She slapped him squarely across the cheek, the sound reverberating in the room.”


🙄 Their first very romantic, passion-filled evening watching stars. He stops their kissing and says this. (they stop kissing, gaze at stars, end of date/scene) Who talks like this?
“Mason saw hope and a small fire of passion reflected in her eyes and breathed deeply. "Why don't I make you dinner? Then if we choose to follow a meal by making love we can. I don't want the first time with you to be out here Sami.”

🙄 This author loves to add the “um” into most dialogue (which is annoying to read):
“Um... Sami Darling to see Mr. Newland. I... um, I... think he's expecting me."

🙄 Sami being sexy:
“He reached over and opened the drawer beside the bed taking out a small foil package.
"Good thinking, dude.”


I could go on, but I think that’s probably enough of my time spent on this sorry excuse for an MC.

At the time of my writing this review, there are 10 posted reviews. Some do mention a stubborn fmc, but because they seem to mostly be arc reads, they gave them 4 to 5 glowing stars anyway. Yet again, untrustworthy arc reviews.

Well, Olga, we did it 👯‍♀️. Not the best Buddy Read, but definitely one we will remember for years to come 😂 (I don’t want to hear about Australia again for a long time)

Bingo Reading Challenge 2025
Square #17 - a romance set in Oceania. (worst book of the bingo/year so far!)
Progress - 96/100
Profile Image for Olga 🌺.
509 reviews8 followers
September 12, 2025
📣 And the award for most obnoxious MFC I've ever read goes too ...... 🥁🥁🥁🥁 Samantha Rose Darling 🏆

Samantha, Sami, is a bit (a lot) uptight. Badmouthed, a bit of a tomboy, always seeing the cup half empty.
She's too roughened up for my liking. Like so 👇

"Hmmm, well whatever. I still think beer is easier and the cows can't fuck it up."
"Cuss a lot, don't you? Sound just like your grandfather, he could spout off a mouthful when it suited him too. Don't sound right though coming from a lady."
Sami crowed with laughter, slapping her leg. "No lady here Tibby, get used to it."
🫤

This woman is too crass. What's up with that? I mean yeah I get it she had a tough few months but people around her owe her nothing, while she's sauntering about with a wicked black cat vibe! 🐈‍⬛

"I was going to call over and see you anyway. I have some business to discuss with you. Would later this afternoon or this evening suit you?", Mason said.
"If it's to offer me a contract on the farm, forget it. It's not for sale and I told your father that repeatedly. Seems he had trouble getting it through his thick skull." She glared at him, finding it easier to be cross than to let her imagination and libido run wild. "Let's hope you aren't as slow taking the hint."
🙄

She's definitely not an MFC I would like to read but I just needed to finish with this dratted Oceania Bingo square. 😒
She's the kind of female who is too independent, too proud, too rude, too distrusting, and aims to wear the pants in a relationship.
I love me a willful strong female but I hate it when said female tries to emascualte any and every male around her. It's just cringe. Not to mention how accommodating and wimpy Mason is 🥴🥴🥴

This is how she talks to an elder who has been nothing but kind and helpful since she inherited the land. She's merely 22 mind you and he is around 70 years old.

She was still stewing over it when she met Tibby in the shed after checking in on her horse.
"Jeez, you look like crap. What's up?" He stood in front of her with a scowl on his face.
"And don't you look like a little ray of sunshine every morning too. Mind your own fucking business, Tibby." She walked over to the tractor, ready to climb up.


What in the ever loving God is that!! 👆👆👆👆👆

At the 92% mark this is how she still talks to Mason, the MMC 🤦‍♀️🤦‍♀️🤦‍♀️🤦‍♀️🤦‍♀️

He hobbled up the rows on his crutches, exhausted by the time he made it to the patch she was stringing up.
"Sami." He reached a hand out to her and she jumped.
"For fuck's sake, there you go again. Trying to scare the shit out of me."
She glared at him. "What is it with you anyway?"
"Sorry, I thought you saw me coming up. Look Sami..."


I CAN'T WITH THIS SORRY SPECIMEN OF A HUMAN. I CANNNNN'T!!!!

Even the sex scenes are so underwhelming and a clear act of dominance! 🥴 Because of course she needs to ascertain herself in the bedroom too.
And then they both apologise, I turn the page and Hallelujah 🙌 the book has ended. They haven't fallen in love. They haven't said I love you and not once did I feel the chemistry between these two.

Anyway done and dusted 👏

Oceania Bingo Square.... You Drained Me!!!

Also, all these 4 and 5 stars, can I just say.... YOU ARE UNASHAMED SCAMMERS!!!

Best of all was, BRing with Lori and sharing the horrors together.


📝 ticking another Bingo square
(17) "A book from every continent (Oceania)"
Square Count: 94

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Profile Image for Cindy Pearson.
930 reviews
July 10, 2020
I identified so much with Sami the Heroine in Ann B. Harrison’s From the Outback. Sami and her brother had a rough trot after losing their dad when they were young then with the recent loss of their mother. Sami had the job of looking after her brother. A phone call from a solicitor in the Hunter Valley .....gave them a place to call home.
300 reviews
January 1, 2020
Overall, a decent summer read.

Enjoyed it, but, not so much as other material I've read from the same author.

Something about the main character here I just couldn't connect with, but, other than that, fairly solid story.
Profile Image for Leigh Deeks.
4 reviews
October 13, 2014
I liked this book & look forward to a continuation of this story. It seemed quite realist though I would prefer less swearing, especially from a female.
Displaying 1 - 12 of 12 reviews

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