What do you think?
Rate this book
Barrington Series #7
Something in the Water
Meggie Hamilton is loving small town life in Barrington, but sometimes it's a juggling act. Her relationship with veterinarian Max Masters is developing and she's keen to spend more time with him. A lot more time. But she has an exciting new business, and needs to get it off the ground to leverage a niche opportunity.
Max and young son Tommy are building relationships within the community, not least of these with Meggie. Max admires her creativity and work ethic, but wonders if she can make room in her life for him and his son. Her brother Angus is Max's business partner, and a wrong move with Meggie could jeopardise that. And then there's Meggie's posse; sister-in-law Rose, business colleague Harriet, cafe owner Debbie, and Melanie who runs the admin at the vet clinic, who all hold strong opinions.
The girl-talk will have you laughing-crying.
Small towns are busy, and Barrington is no exception. Someone close to Meggie has a secret health issue, and Max finds himself supporting an elderly client and his family through a serious illness.
With so much going on, will they find a way to move forward together? The sixth book in the Barrington Series - take a moment to reunite with old friends and catch up with their journeys.
Max and young son Tommy are building relationships within the community, not least of these with Meggie. Max admires her creativity and work ethic, but wonders if she can make room in her life for him and his son. Her brother Angus is Max's business partner, and a wrong move with Meggie could jeopardise that. And then there's Meggie's posse; sister-in-law Rose, business colleague Harriet, cafe owner Debbie, and Melanie who runs the admin at the vet clinic, who all hold strong opinions.
The girl-talk will have you laughing-crying.
Small towns are busy, and Barrington is no exception. Someone close to Meggie has a secret health issue, and Max finds himself supporting an elderly client and his family through a serious illness.
With so much going on, will they find a way to move forward together? The sixth book in the Barrington Series - take a moment to reunite with old friends and catch up with their journeys.
146 pages, Paperback
Published July 22, 2023
About the author
Susan Mackie
22 books123 followersWinner of the 2025 RUBY Award for Women's Fiction with Romantic Elements (Romance Writers of Australia) for The Barrington Book Club.
"Uniquely Australian, yet told in a companionable style, reminiscent of Maeve Binchy." Julie, Goodreads & Amazon.
Romance books you'll fall in love with.
Susan Mackie writes heart-warming, character-driven romance and women's fiction. Small town stories with all the feels and a community you'll want to move to.
Every person and every place has a story to tell.
Do you drive by old homes and wonder about the lives of those that built them, lived there, loved and lost?
Writers tell such stories. Sometimes real, sometimes imagined. Often both.
"Uniquely Australian, yet told in a companionable style, reminiscent of Maeve Binchy." Julie, Goodreads & Amazon.
Romance books you'll fall in love with.
Susan Mackie writes heart-warming, character-driven romance and women's fiction. Small town stories with all the feels and a community you'll want to move to.
Every person and every place has a story to tell.
Do you drive by old homes and wonder about the lives of those that built them, lived there, loved and lost?
Writers tell such stories. Sometimes real, sometimes imagined. Often both.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
August 21, 2023
Another awesome trip to Barrington, catching up with friends, this one has many emotions throughout, it is beautifully written as we see two of our favourite couples move into the future together, and catch up with many more, this is a beautifully told story and yes there were happy tears and some sad ones from me.
Meggie is well and truly settled and loving her life in Barrington, her relationship with Max is going really well and their hearts are filled with each other and Max’s son Tommy is a treasure to be with, but are they ready to take it further and move in together?
Harriet has also settled well and she loves Drum and his daughter Billie but the past is still with her and is causing problems at the moment and stopping her from moving forward, she requests her friend Meggie’s support, will the outcome see them also moving forward?
This installment takes in a lot of the characters we have gotten to know and love, there are puppies and kittens to ooh and arr over, lots of happy meals to enjoy and many happy announcements, I didn’t want this one to end because, I do love being in Barrington. I do look forward to many more visits.
I do highly recommend this one and the series, they are beautiful and heartwarming stories that are sure to leave any reader feeling very good about life and love.
My thanks to the author for my copy to read and review.
Meggie is well and truly settled and loving her life in Barrington, her relationship with Max is going really well and their hearts are filled with each other and Max’s son Tommy is a treasure to be with, but are they ready to take it further and move in together?
Harriet has also settled well and she loves Drum and his daughter Billie but the past is still with her and is causing problems at the moment and stopping her from moving forward, she requests her friend Meggie’s support, will the outcome see them also moving forward?
This installment takes in a lot of the characters we have gotten to know and love, there are puppies and kittens to ooh and arr over, lots of happy meals to enjoy and many happy announcements, I didn’t want this one to end because, I do love being in Barrington. I do look forward to many more visits.
I do highly recommend this one and the series, they are beautiful and heartwarming stories that are sure to leave any reader feeling very good about life and love.
My thanks to the author for my copy to read and review.
December 6, 2025
Something in the Water is the seventh book in the popular and highly addictive series by Australia author Susan Mackie.
Meggie Hamilton is enjoying living in Barrington, and started her events business and Harriet Russell’s office is next to hers and they enjoy sharing a morning coffee and a chat, and running ideas past her.
Meggie is dating single dad and vet Max Masters and she adores his son Tommy and step-daughter Liliana. The Master’s men are feeling at home in the community, the clinic is busy, Tommy likes helping with the animals and he’s made friends at school and playing mixed netball.
Meggie's brother Angus is Max's business partner, and his wife Rose is part of Meggie’s circle, along with Harriet, Debbie from the café and Melanie the receptionist at the clinic.
Max and Tommy are living in a tiny flat behind the vet’s, they need to find something larger, but he’s not sure if Meggie's keen to take their relationship to the next level and move in together and he doesn't want to rush her?
I really like the community spirit in Barrington, they support the elderly and anyone facing health issues and experiencing tough times. Tommy is the sweetest kid and Max is a wonderful father and he's raising him right and Meggie wonders if he wants to have more children?
I highly recommend and I’m looking forward to reading The Barrington Book Club and where commitments are made and I think there’s a baby boom in town?
Meggie Hamilton is enjoying living in Barrington, and started her events business and Harriet Russell’s office is next to hers and they enjoy sharing a morning coffee and a chat, and running ideas past her.
Meggie is dating single dad and vet Max Masters and she adores his son Tommy and step-daughter Liliana. The Master’s men are feeling at home in the community, the clinic is busy, Tommy likes helping with the animals and he’s made friends at school and playing mixed netball.
Meggie's brother Angus is Max's business partner, and his wife Rose is part of Meggie’s circle, along with Harriet, Debbie from the café and Melanie the receptionist at the clinic.
Max and Tommy are living in a tiny flat behind the vet’s, they need to find something larger, but he’s not sure if Meggie's keen to take their relationship to the next level and move in together and he doesn't want to rush her?
I really like the community spirit in Barrington, they support the elderly and anyone facing health issues and experiencing tough times. Tommy is the sweetest kid and Max is a wonderful father and he's raising him right and Meggie wonders if he wants to have more children?
I highly recommend and I’m looking forward to reading The Barrington Book Club and where commitments are made and I think there’s a baby boom in town?
August 21, 2023
Thank you Susan for gifting us a copy to read and review.
I had immediate click and resonation with the first book in this series, Charlie’s Will.
An introduction to Barrington, it’s people and it’s sense of community.
This solid read has laid foundations for five other books and novellas, of which I’ve read and enjoyed them all.
This novella is mainly about Meggie and Max and their adjustment to life in town and blossoming relationship.
Their social and professional connections ensures I caught up with all the cast I have got to know.
I loved the way Susan has drawn on the history between people, it’s events and the adoption of animals.
The gifting of a kitten to an elderly lady had a backstory and is ever so common in country areas and was ever so touching.
References to Charlie tie the series together and how he lives on in memory and legacy.
I enjoyed and respected the homage to fellow author Rhonda Forrest in a book discussion.
It’s these little things that make an avid reader of a series happy.
This series is a fine example of rural fiction and one I highly recommend.
Keep an eye for the authors who compile stories for the Love in a Sunburnt Land anthology.
I had immediate click and resonation with the first book in this series, Charlie’s Will.
An introduction to Barrington, it’s people and it’s sense of community.
This solid read has laid foundations for five other books and novellas, of which I’ve read and enjoyed them all.
This novella is mainly about Meggie and Max and their adjustment to life in town and blossoming relationship.
Their social and professional connections ensures I caught up with all the cast I have got to know.
I loved the way Susan has drawn on the history between people, it’s events and the adoption of animals.
The gifting of a kitten to an elderly lady had a backstory and is ever so common in country areas and was ever so touching.
References to Charlie tie the series together and how he lives on in memory and legacy.
I enjoyed and respected the homage to fellow author Rhonda Forrest in a book discussion.
It’s these little things that make an avid reader of a series happy.
This series is a fine example of rural fiction and one I highly recommend.
Keep an eye for the authors who compile stories for the Love in a Sunburnt Land anthology.
August 24, 2023
⭐️5 Stars⭐️
Another absolutely winning tale and the latest release in the heart-warming Barrington series #6.
Something in the Water by Susan Mackie charmed and captivated me completely, I was especially drawn to Meggie, vetenarian Max and young Tommy’s relationships and their challanges and wins.
I love the small town community support and kindness in these books it gives you such a good feeling and the characters feel like friends I have grown to know and love.
Awww the animals, the puppies, chickens and kittens and all the young children, romantic scenarios and an elderly new character Fred.
There is so much expertly packed into this novella, I don’t know how the author does it. I don’t often rate a novella 5 stars but a big five for this one! This book made me literally laugh, smile and cry!
I’ve been a fan of this Queensland Indie authors work for some years now and Mackie never disappoints. If you need some sunshine in your life grab a copy of this book or the complete series! ☀️
Publication Date 01 Sept 2023
Publisher - Self Published
Available https://susanmackie.com or Amazon
A huge thanks to @Susan Mackie for an early signed copy of the book 💛
Another absolutely winning tale and the latest release in the heart-warming Barrington series #6.
Something in the Water by Susan Mackie charmed and captivated me completely, I was especially drawn to Meggie, vetenarian Max and young Tommy’s relationships and their challanges and wins.
I love the small town community support and kindness in these books it gives you such a good feeling and the characters feel like friends I have grown to know and love.
Awww the animals, the puppies, chickens and kittens and all the young children, romantic scenarios and an elderly new character Fred.
There is so much expertly packed into this novella, I don’t know how the author does it. I don’t often rate a novella 5 stars but a big five for this one! This book made me literally laugh, smile and cry!
I’ve been a fan of this Queensland Indie authors work for some years now and Mackie never disappoints. If you need some sunshine in your life grab a copy of this book or the complete series! ☀️
Publication Date 01 Sept 2023
Publisher - Self Published
Available https://susanmackie.com or Amazon
A huge thanks to @Susan Mackie for an early signed copy of the book 💛
August 9, 2023
Meggie Hamilton is loving small town life in Barrington, but sometimes it's a juggling act.
Her relationship with veterinarian Max Masters is developing and she's keen to spend more time with him. A lot more time. But she has an exciting new business, and needs to get it off the ground to leverage a niche opportunity.
Max and young son Tommy are building relationships within the community, not least of these with Meggie. Max admires her creativity and work ethic, but wonders if she can make room in her life for him and his son. Her brother Angus is Max's business partner, and a wrong move with Meggie could jeopardise that. And then there's Meggie's posse; sister-in-law Rose, business colleague Harriet, cafe owner Debbie, and Melanie who runs the admin at the vet clinic, who all hold strong opinions.
The girl-talk will have you laughing-crying. Small towns are busy, and Barrington is no exception. Someone close to Meggie has a secret health issue, and Max finds himself supporting an elderly client and his family through a serious illness.
With so much going on, will they find a way to move forward together?
This is the sixth book in the “Barrington Series” and I loved it! A great book to curl up with a nice cup of tea on a winter’s evening - this beautiful story will warm you from the inside out. It is lovely to read about Meggie and Max’s relationship moving towards the next stage - I love this couple 🩷 I could not put this book down - you will not be disappointed! You have puppies, kittens, chickens all set in an idyllic country town. There is definitely “something in the water” but I am not telling you what it is! You will have to read and find out for yourself 🤗
Highly recommended 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
Her relationship with veterinarian Max Masters is developing and she's keen to spend more time with him. A lot more time. But she has an exciting new business, and needs to get it off the ground to leverage a niche opportunity.
Max and young son Tommy are building relationships within the community, not least of these with Meggie. Max admires her creativity and work ethic, but wonders if she can make room in her life for him and his son. Her brother Angus is Max's business partner, and a wrong move with Meggie could jeopardise that. And then there's Meggie's posse; sister-in-law Rose, business colleague Harriet, cafe owner Debbie, and Melanie who runs the admin at the vet clinic, who all hold strong opinions.
The girl-talk will have you laughing-crying. Small towns are busy, and Barrington is no exception. Someone close to Meggie has a secret health issue, and Max finds himself supporting an elderly client and his family through a serious illness.
With so much going on, will they find a way to move forward together?
This is the sixth book in the “Barrington Series” and I loved it! A great book to curl up with a nice cup of tea on a winter’s evening - this beautiful story will warm you from the inside out. It is lovely to read about Meggie and Max’s relationship moving towards the next stage - I love this couple 🩷 I could not put this book down - you will not be disappointed! You have puppies, kittens, chickens all set in an idyllic country town. There is definitely “something in the water” but I am not telling you what it is! You will have to read and find out for yourself 🤗
Highly recommended 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
August 31, 2023
My love of Susan's books goes back to book #1, Charlie's Will. Since that story, it has been a joy and a pleasure to follow her books and the people who live within them. Maybe I should say characters, but to me they are people, friends...warm, loving, supportive and genuine.
Something in the Water brings us up to date with Max and Maggie. And, of course, Tommy. So wonderful to also catch up with the rest of the gang, they are all there supporting each other and everyone making us laugh and cry. Country people, country life there is nothing quite like it.
Thank you Susan Mackie, for yet another charming and delightful story, and for my print copy of Something in the Water. I look forward to many more stories in the future.
Something in the Water brings us up to date with Max and Maggie. And, of course, Tommy. So wonderful to also catch up with the rest of the gang, they are all there supporting each other and everyone making us laugh and cry. Country people, country life there is nothing quite like it.
Thank you Susan Mackie, for yet another charming and delightful story, and for my print copy of Something in the Water. I look forward to many more stories in the future.
August 27, 2023
4.5 stars ⭐️
August 12, 2023
What a wonderful catch-up with all Barrington town family and friends. It's like coming home.
Business, laughter, life's ups and downs, not to mention all the animal stories as well.
The small town gossip, support, and friendships make your heart soar.
You will enjoy the sixth book in the Barrington Series. I did!
Business, laughter, life's ups and downs, not to mention all the animal stories as well.
The small town gossip, support, and friendships make your heart soar.
You will enjoy the sixth book in the Barrington Series. I did!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 14, 2023
Excellent
August 16, 2025
I can't decide who in Barrington I like more, they all come into their own and I can't pick a favourite, they all have a place in my heart! I'm glad I still have a few books to go as I'm not really to let the gang go anywhere yet!
The title of this one is bang on! There is something definitely in the water! I love how the books are intermingled, they all wind into each other, friendships strengthen, new bonds formed, new jobs created. Everyone looks out for each other and I love the community feel of Barrington.
After reading that ending, it was a perfect and brilliant way to open up to the next book, looking forward to continuing the series!
The title of this one is bang on! There is something definitely in the water! I love how the books are intermingled, they all wind into each other, friendships strengthen, new bonds formed, new jobs created. Everyone looks out for each other and I love the community feel of Barrington.
After reading that ending, it was a perfect and brilliant way to open up to the next book, looking forward to continuing the series!
July 19, 2025
The next book of the series which continues with a focus on Meggie and Max and brings in many of the familiar characters from previous book. This book was another great read.
August 14, 2023
Something in the Water - Love in a Sunburnt Land by Susan Mackie (Barrington Novella 3)
Susan's stories are like coming home; the beloved characters, the town of Barrington and the love of family.
Max and Meggie's relationship is front and centre. Their love for one another grows as they navigate their lives together. Meggie cares for Max's son, Tommy, and he loves her being in their lives. They bond over good food, and their growing relationship is heartwarming. Susan's characters are always loveable, and I was glad to be able to read more of Max and Meggie's journey. They care for oneanother, respect each other's space and plans for the future. They are a gorgeous couple.
Susan writes about strong female characters who have a passion for life. In this instance, the business that Meggie and her friends run is at an exciting point and they are hoping to branch out. Meggie is also enjoying family life with Max and Tommy.
Barrington never fails to disappoint. The descriptions of this idyllic spot will have readers captivated. It is one of my favourite spots to visit. It was also the spot where my family and I were able to meet Susan to celebrate the launch of her novel, The Bee Whisperer. If you haven't read a novel set in Barrington yet, please pick up Susan's books.
Friendship is also a theme explored in this beautiful novella. Meggie shows that she is a friend who will stand by no matter what and provide support however needed.
One of my favourite characters in this novella is Fred. He is elderly and unwell. He is a man who is at peace in his own home and loves his family and animals dearly. He is a kindhearted and loving man who is loved by his family and the community. Readers will fall in love with him instantly too.
Something in the Water is like eating your favourite slow-cooked meal on a cold winter's night. There is a lot of flavour and it is comforting for the soul. Susan has fit a lot into this expertly crafted novella. I would highly recommend Something in the Water.
Thank you @susanmackieauthor
#bookreviewer
#bookreview #bookrecommendations #romance #romanceanz #familylife #relationship #countrylife #Barrington #melaniehunterbooks
Susan's stories are like coming home; the beloved characters, the town of Barrington and the love of family.
Max and Meggie's relationship is front and centre. Their love for one another grows as they navigate their lives together. Meggie cares for Max's son, Tommy, and he loves her being in their lives. They bond over good food, and their growing relationship is heartwarming. Susan's characters are always loveable, and I was glad to be able to read more of Max and Meggie's journey. They care for oneanother, respect each other's space and plans for the future. They are a gorgeous couple.
Susan writes about strong female characters who have a passion for life. In this instance, the business that Meggie and her friends run is at an exciting point and they are hoping to branch out. Meggie is also enjoying family life with Max and Tommy.
Barrington never fails to disappoint. The descriptions of this idyllic spot will have readers captivated. It is one of my favourite spots to visit. It was also the spot where my family and I were able to meet Susan to celebrate the launch of her novel, The Bee Whisperer. If you haven't read a novel set in Barrington yet, please pick up Susan's books.
Friendship is also a theme explored in this beautiful novella. Meggie shows that she is a friend who will stand by no matter what and provide support however needed.
One of my favourite characters in this novella is Fred. He is elderly and unwell. He is a man who is at peace in his own home and loves his family and animals dearly. He is a kindhearted and loving man who is loved by his family and the community. Readers will fall in love with him instantly too.
Something in the Water is like eating your favourite slow-cooked meal on a cold winter's night. There is a lot of flavour and it is comforting for the soul. Susan has fit a lot into this expertly crafted novella. I would highly recommend Something in the Water.
Thank you @susanmackieauthor
#bookreviewer
#bookreview #bookrecommendations #romance #romanceanz #familylife #relationship #countrylife #Barrington #melaniehunterbooks
January 4, 2024
My Review: Wow, what can I say other than this book was an ABSOLUTE DELIGHT!! I devoured it quickly, and kept trying to slow myself down so I could savour it for longer (the sign of a very good book!!)
I have been a fan of Susan's books for quite some time now, so I was very keen to head back to the world of Barrington and read about the characters that I've grown to love. It was so nice to read from the perspective of Meggie Hamilton in this book, whilst she was a minor character in previous books in the series. I honestly love all of the couples in this series - I have to remind myself that they aren't real people sometimes haha.
A definite 5/5 star read for me - as always I can't wait to see what Susan writes next!
Synopsis: Meggie Hamilton is loving small town life in Barrington, but sometimes it's a juggling act. Her relationship with veterinarian Max Masters is developing and she's keen to spend more time with him. A lot more time. But she has an exciting new business, and needs to get it off the ground to leverage a niche opportunity.
Max and young son Tommy are building relationships within the community, not least of these with Meggie. Max admires her creativity and work ethic, but wonders if she can make room in her life for him and his son. Her brother Angus is Max's business partner, and a wrong move with Meggie could jeopardise that. And then there's Meggie's posse; sister-in-law Rose, business colleague Harriet, cafe owner Debbie, and Melanie who runs the admin at the vet clinic, who all hold strong opinions.
The girl-talk will have you laughing-crying.
Small towns are busy, and Barrington is no exception. Someone close to Meggie has a secret health issue, and Max finds himself supporting an elderly client and his family through a serious illness.
With so much going on, will they find a way to move forward together? The sixth book in the Barrington Series - take a moment to reunite with old friends and catch up with their journeys.
I have been a fan of Susan's books for quite some time now, so I was very keen to head back to the world of Barrington and read about the characters that I've grown to love. It was so nice to read from the perspective of Meggie Hamilton in this book, whilst she was a minor character in previous books in the series. I honestly love all of the couples in this series - I have to remind myself that they aren't real people sometimes haha.
A definite 5/5 star read for me - as always I can't wait to see what Susan writes next!
Synopsis: Meggie Hamilton is loving small town life in Barrington, but sometimes it's a juggling act. Her relationship with veterinarian Max Masters is developing and she's keen to spend more time with him. A lot more time. But she has an exciting new business, and needs to get it off the ground to leverage a niche opportunity.
Max and young son Tommy are building relationships within the community, not least of these with Meggie. Max admires her creativity and work ethic, but wonders if she can make room in her life for him and his son. Her brother Angus is Max's business partner, and a wrong move with Meggie could jeopardise that. And then there's Meggie's posse; sister-in-law Rose, business colleague Harriet, cafe owner Debbie, and Melanie who runs the admin at the vet clinic, who all hold strong opinions.
The girl-talk will have you laughing-crying.
Small towns are busy, and Barrington is no exception. Someone close to Meggie has a secret health issue, and Max finds himself supporting an elderly client and his family through a serious illness.
With so much going on, will they find a way to move forward together? The sixth book in the Barrington Series - take a moment to reunite with old friends and catch up with their journeys.
March 8, 2026
Another fabulous story — “Something in the Water” had me hooked from the start!
This beautifully written book follows Meggie and Max as their relationship deepens — but as always, life in a small town is never straightforward. Meggie is navigating the demands of a new business venture while also learning how to make space in her life for Max and his young son, Tommy. At the same time, Max is settling into Barrington, forging connections, and trying to find balance between love, fatherhood, and work — which isn’t always easy when your business partner is also your girlfriend’s brother, Angus!
Meggie’s world is rich with familiar faces — her inner circle includes sister-in-law Rose, her no-nonsense colleague Harriet, warm-hearted café owner Debbie, and Melanie from the vet clinic — each with strong personalities and plenty of opinions to offer.
As the story unfolds, a loved one quietly faces a serious health challenge, while Max supports one of his elderly clients through an emotional journey of his own. There’s so much happening in this story — moments of joy, sorrow, and everything in between.
At its heart, this is a story about friendship, resilience, and the kind of love that shows up — even when life gets complicated. Meggie proves herself to be the kind of friend who never wavers, offering support, strength, and unwavering loyalty.
I absolutely loved this one. A warm, heartfelt read that left me smiling — and wanting more!
This beautifully written book follows Meggie and Max as their relationship deepens — but as always, life in a small town is never straightforward. Meggie is navigating the demands of a new business venture while also learning how to make space in her life for Max and his young son, Tommy. At the same time, Max is settling into Barrington, forging connections, and trying to find balance between love, fatherhood, and work — which isn’t always easy when your business partner is also your girlfriend’s brother, Angus!
Meggie’s world is rich with familiar faces — her inner circle includes sister-in-law Rose, her no-nonsense colleague Harriet, warm-hearted café owner Debbie, and Melanie from the vet clinic — each with strong personalities and plenty of opinions to offer.
As the story unfolds, a loved one quietly faces a serious health challenge, while Max supports one of his elderly clients through an emotional journey of his own. There’s so much happening in this story — moments of joy, sorrow, and everything in between.
At its heart, this is a story about friendship, resilience, and the kind of love that shows up — even when life gets complicated. Meggie proves herself to be the kind of friend who never wavers, offering support, strength, and unwavering loyalty.
I absolutely loved this one. A warm, heartfelt read that left me smiling — and wanting more!
January 20, 2024
After reading each book in the Barrington Series I am always left wanting more and once again Susan has delivered!
The opening chapter has you giggling which always means you're in for one heck of a ride!
There is something about the way Susan writes that just reels you in. You feel like you are a part of the story from the very beginning. You laugh with the characters, you cry with them and most of all you fall in love with them.
I love how Aussie authors were mentioned in the book, to me this shows just how much Susan appreciates the other amazing authors around her!
Another brilliant installment in the Barrington Series. Do yourself a favour and read them all then beg the amazing author for more like I do!
The opening chapter has you giggling which always means you're in for one heck of a ride!
There is something about the way Susan writes that just reels you in. You feel like you are a part of the story from the very beginning. You laugh with the characters, you cry with them and most of all you fall in love with them.
I love how Aussie authors were mentioned in the book, to me this shows just how much Susan appreciates the other amazing authors around her!
Another brilliant installment in the Barrington Series. Do yourself a favour and read them all then beg the amazing author for more like I do!
November 16, 2023
Death and Rebirth
I enjoyed this story so much. Parts were sad, parts were extremely happy. I felt so much a part of this family. I cried for the deaths. I cried and rejoiced in their happiness. I highly recommend this book. It takes you through life's cycle both human and animal. Keep a box of tissues handy for this book as you will need it when you cry the sad tears and the happy ones. I look forward to the next book. Thank you Susan Mackie for another great story.
I enjoyed this story so much. Parts were sad, parts were extremely happy. I felt so much a part of this family. I cried for the deaths. I cried and rejoiced in their happiness. I highly recommend this book. It takes you through life's cycle both human and animal. Keep a box of tissues handy for this book as you will need it when you cry the sad tears and the happy ones. I look forward to the next book. Thank you Susan Mackie for another great story.
April 1, 2024
This is book 6 in the Barrington Series. Another small town story. With the loveable characters as they go through trials and tribulations that we call life.
I held my breath and burst into tears, with the passing of a much loved character. But that's a sign of a great Talent an author that can hit you in the feels.
I held my breath and burst into tears, with the passing of a much loved character. But that's a sign of a great Talent an author that can hit you in the feels.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 11, 2026
‘Something in the water’ is filled with all our favourites from the town of Barrington. Future plans are whispered about, yet there’s something holding them back. Focussing on Meggie and Max and Harriet and Drum. The girls have secrets and the boys are baffled.
This book is just as enjoyable as the others, and filled to the brim with two new minor characters, Fred and Mrs Tupp’s, dogs, cats, chickens and adorable Tommy, Max’s son.
Loved it!
This book is just as enjoyable as the others, and filled to the brim with two new minor characters, Fred and Mrs Tupp’s, dogs, cats, chickens and adorable Tommy, Max’s son.
Loved it!
January 28, 2026
Loved it, another great book in the series
March 19, 2026
Love the storyline, characters and everything in the book.
March 21, 2025
The Barrington series continues with another expertly written small-town romance, bringing us back to the charming country town of Barrington (which, yes, actually exists!). This book follows Meggie and Max as their relationship deepens, but life in a small town is never simple. Meggie is juggling a new business venture while trying to make room for Max and his young son, Tommy. Meanwhile, Max is settling into Barrington, building relationships, and navigating the challenge of balancing love, fatherhood, and work—especially when Meggie’s brother, Angus, is his business partner.
As always, the incredible cast of characters makes this book feel like coming home. Meggie’s tight-knit circle of friends—Rose, Harriet, Debbie, and Melanie—bring plenty of girl talk and laugh-out-loud moments, while the broader community keeps things lively. Between family struggles, a secret health battle, and Max’s emotional support for an elderly client, the story weaves just enough drama, action, and intrigue to keep the pages turning long into the night.
This author has captivated me since the first book in the series, and this latest instalment is no exception. The characters grow with each book, their stories unfolding in a way that makes them feel like old friends. If you love small-town romance filled with heart, humour, and just the right amount of tension, this is a must-read.
As always, the incredible cast of characters makes this book feel like coming home. Meggie’s tight-knit circle of friends—Rose, Harriet, Debbie, and Melanie—bring plenty of girl talk and laugh-out-loud moments, while the broader community keeps things lively. Between family struggles, a secret health battle, and Max’s emotional support for an elderly client, the story weaves just enough drama, action, and intrigue to keep the pages turning long into the night.
This author has captivated me since the first book in the series, and this latest instalment is no exception. The characters grow with each book, their stories unfolding in a way that makes them feel like old friends. If you love small-town romance filled with heart, humour, and just the right amount of tension, this is a must-read.
June 29, 2024
Really enjoyed my second Susan Mackie novella. For someone who is not really a fan of the novella & short story format, Susan has converted me. She can pack a lot into a short read without it feeling cluttered or without substance. We again met the Barrington crew. There are children, animals, food, pregnancy, death, eminent marriage, business development & more however it flows.
I score this 4.5 stars 🌟
I score this 4.5 stars 🌟
April 18, 2025
l totally enjoyed this book looking forward to read more of Susan books
September 3, 2023
Stars: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Genre: fiction - romance, rural romance
Does the blurb reflect the plot: it’s a great summary of what’s to come.
Sum it up: Mackie is back with the sixth instalment in her Barrington series and it’s just like getting a big hug from an old friend. There is so much to love about this novella as we get reacquainted with all the residents of Barrington that we’ve come to know and love. After four previous works, each containing a separate couple discovering romance; I was so happy that she brought all the main characters together and let their stories of life in Barrington grow and expand. For this reason, I recommend that you read this book after reading the rest of the series, which can be read just as well as stand alone books. As usual, there was enough romance to place it in the romance genre; but also enough of every day life happening as the plot progresses that you’ll enjoy it even if romance novels aren’t your thing. Another fabulous read from one of Australia’s best independent authors, Something In The Water is my new favourite in the Barrington series and I highly recommend it.
Who should read it: fans of romance, rural romance, chick lit and contemporary fiction; those who want a short but sweet read and those that like to support independent authors.
To play along with my book bingo and to see what else I’m reading, go to #ktbookbingo and @kt_elder on Instagram.
Genre: fiction - romance, rural romance
Does the blurb reflect the plot: it’s a great summary of what’s to come.
Sum it up: Mackie is back with the sixth instalment in her Barrington series and it’s just like getting a big hug from an old friend. There is so much to love about this novella as we get reacquainted with all the residents of Barrington that we’ve come to know and love. After four previous works, each containing a separate couple discovering romance; I was so happy that she brought all the main characters together and let their stories of life in Barrington grow and expand. For this reason, I recommend that you read this book after reading the rest of the series, which can be read just as well as stand alone books. As usual, there was enough romance to place it in the romance genre; but also enough of every day life happening as the plot progresses that you’ll enjoy it even if romance novels aren’t your thing. Another fabulous read from one of Australia’s best independent authors, Something In The Water is my new favourite in the Barrington series and I highly recommend it.
Who should read it: fans of romance, rural romance, chick lit and contemporary fiction; those who want a short but sweet read and those that like to support independent authors.
To play along with my book bingo and to see what else I’m reading, go to #ktbookbingo and @kt_elder on Instagram.
July 7, 2025
Audiobook: I was entertained by this story. Although I thought this story focused the most on Meggie's and Max's relationship, there were questions regarding their friend's relationship too. I appreciated how the author showed that a person's past impacts their present, and how they move forward in the future. I have enjoyed the time spent in Barrington as the characters were personable, and their stories touched my heart. I thought Lucy Goleby's narration was moving, and her performance brought the characters to life. I was given a copy of the audiobook. I volunteered, without financial gain, to post this review which reflected my honest opinions regarding this audiobook.
August 7, 2023
This novella continues the Barrington series with well-loved characters, lots of food, adorable animals and babies. Reading this story is like wrapping yourself in a favourite, familiar and comfortable blanket on a cold winter afternoon.
January 27, 2024
Another enjoyable small town rural story from Susan Mackie with all the feels - love, sorrow, friendship and happiness. The ending left a smile on my face - and yes, there is clearly "something in the water!"
May 22, 2026
I loved reading this book even though it made me cry. The relationships in this book were lovely. I love that the characters were always there for one another and always happy to help
Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews