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Aussie Outback Medical #11
As the River Rises
Dr Hannah Rogan, a GP from outback Queensland, is in hiding from an emotionally abusive ex-boyfriend. When a visit to her friend Gracie in Featherwood sparks the idea to move there and open a medical practice for the town, Hannah finds the fresh start she needs. The town has rebuilt after devastating fires and its growing population is desperate for her calm presence and expertise.
Her first patient is the son of the tight-lipped, attractive Jude, from the mysterious closed community upriver. Jude has a troubled past he doesn’t talk about, but now he’s helping others to turn their lives around. The last thing Jude needs is to fall for the new doctor in town but his son’s illness means they’ll be spending a lot of time together.
The rain starts, and doesn’t stop. The creeks fill, the river bursts and soon the residents of Featherwood are at risk of losing everything they’ve rebuilt. As the floodwaters rise, so do emotions and everyone must pull together to save lives and salvage whatever they can.
From the bestselling author of The Opal Miner’s Daughter comes this suspenseful tale of love, redemption and finding your path when you feel surrounded.
Her first patient is the son of the tight-lipped, attractive Jude, from the mysterious closed community upriver. Jude has a troubled past he doesn’t talk about, but now he’s helping others to turn their lives around. The last thing Jude needs is to fall for the new doctor in town but his son’s illness means they’ll be spending a lot of time together.
The rain starts, and doesn’t stop. The creeks fill, the river bursts and soon the residents of Featherwood are at risk of losing everything they’ve rebuilt. As the floodwaters rise, so do emotions and everyone must pull together to save lives and salvage whatever they can.
From the bestselling author of The Opal Miner’s Daughter comes this suspenseful tale of love, redemption and finding your path when you feel surrounded.
352 pages, Paperback
Published September 5, 2023
54 people are currently reading
111 people want to read
About the author
Fiona McArthur
279 books200 followersFiona McArthur has worked as a midwife for thirty years. She is the clinical midwifery educator inner rural maternity unit and teaches emergency obstetric strategies while working with midwives and doctors from remote and isolated areas.
Fiona has written more than thirty romances, which have sold over two million copies in twelve languages. She has been a midwifery expert for Mother and Baby magazine and is the author of Aussie Midwives. She has also written the novels Red Sand Sunrise, The Homestead Girls and Heart of the Sky. She lives on a farm in northern New South Wales.
Fiona has written more than thirty romances, which have sold over two million copies in twelve languages. She has been a midwifery expert for Mother and Baby magazine and is the author of Aussie Midwives. She has also written the novels Red Sand Sunrise, The Homestead Girls and Heart of the Sky. She lives on a farm in northern New South Wales.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews
January 5, 2024
4.5★
As the River Rises by Aussie author Fiona McArthur is a brilliantly written story that I thoroughly enjoyed.
In this story, you get a real sense of community spirit and it shows that when people in country towns are doing it tough whether due to personal issues or things like floods or bushfires, everyone pulls together to help one another. A compelling and at times emotional read. I loved this book from start to finish. Highly recommended.
As the River Rises by Aussie author Fiona McArthur is a brilliantly written story that I thoroughly enjoyed.
In this story, you get a real sense of community spirit and it shows that when people in country towns are doing it tough whether due to personal issues or things like floods or bushfires, everyone pulls together to help one another. A compelling and at times emotional read. I loved this book from start to finish. Highly recommended.
September 3, 2023
When Dr Hannah Rogan decided to leave her home in Roma, Queensland and the ex-boyfriend who had made her life miserable, to move to Featherwood in New South Wales where her best friend Gracie had made her home, it wasn't long before she felt at home. Opening her own medical practice in the town, the old rectory converted easily to both her home and the surgery. The community was recovering from devastating bushfires where many had lost their homes. Hannah would be a welcome addition to the town, stopping those residents who needed it, having to travel for medical help.
With Nell as her nurse/receptionist/office lady, Hannah opened her first day to an emergency when the reclusive Jude Waugh and his very sick son Leo arrived. Fortunately no further emergencies followed and Hannah continued with her calm, caring and efficient manner, drawing the folks of Featherwood's praise. When the rains began, at first welcomed; then the worry set in - it wasn't long before the creeks overflowed, the river broke its banks and soon there was much to worry about. Would they lose everything they had fought so hard to save during the bushfires?
As the River Rises is another exceptional read by talented Aussie author Fiona McArthur which I devoured. Australia is known for its extreme seasons with the disastrous bushfires in 2019/2020, then the floods in 2022, and As the River Rises is a fictional telling of a small town and its heartbreak, along with the resilience and coming together of residents to help their neighbours during one such event. Filled with tension, the strength of the town's people and breathtaking suspense, I flew through this book, not surprised that once again I thoroughly enjoyed another of this author's works. Highly recommended.
With thanks to Penguin Random House AU for my ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
With Nell as her nurse/receptionist/office lady, Hannah opened her first day to an emergency when the reclusive Jude Waugh and his very sick son Leo arrived. Fortunately no further emergencies followed and Hannah continued with her calm, caring and efficient manner, drawing the folks of Featherwood's praise. When the rains began, at first welcomed; then the worry set in - it wasn't long before the creeks overflowed, the river broke its banks and soon there was much to worry about. Would they lose everything they had fought so hard to save during the bushfires?
As the River Rises is another exceptional read by talented Aussie author Fiona McArthur which I devoured. Australia is known for its extreme seasons with the disastrous bushfires in 2019/2020, then the floods in 2022, and As the River Rises is a fictional telling of a small town and its heartbreak, along with the resilience and coming together of residents to help their neighbours during one such event. Filled with tension, the strength of the town's people and breathtaking suspense, I flew through this book, not surprised that once again I thoroughly enjoyed another of this author's works. Highly recommended.
With thanks to Penguin Random House AU for my ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
August 23, 2023
You made me cry Fiona McArthur, I loved this story so very much, I loved being back in Featherwood catching up with so many friends I met in The Farmer’s Friend and getting to know Hannah and Jude. If you haven’t pre-ordered this one then do so now you do not want to miss it.
Dr. Hannah Rogan has come to visit her bestie Gracie in Featherwood, she is escaping her abusive ex, once here she realises that his is the place she should make her home, they need a doctor and there is the perfect house and consulting rooms for her, this small town has rebuilt since the devastating fires one year ago the perfect place for Hannah to re-start.
Hannah is settling in well and has hired local nurse and midwife Nell, one of her first patients is a very ill young teenager Leo, his father Jude makes a lasting impression on Hannah although there is talk about what is really going on at Luna Downs, their property, and Hannah does not want any trouble.
Jude has been through so much in the last year and he is worried about Leo, the new doctor is very good at picking up Leo’s problem and he is very attracted to her and it now seems that they will be seeing quite a bit of each other. His life has changed a lot in the last year and he is enjoying helping others to change their lives, will his future see someone else in it?
The rains start and do not stop, the creeks and rivers are rising and it looks pretty much like the town will go under water, after all they have been through, but these residents of Featherwood are resilient and never give up. Jude and his crew with Liam and Jed work tirelessly to save property as do the woman Hannah, Gracie, Molly and Nell, and we can’t forget Mavis, Leo and Archie, my heart was pounding throughout this wonderful story of resilience, spirit and strength, seeing friends in such dangerous positions, how will it all turn out?
Oh I loved this one and yes there were tears from me and lots of cheers as these people worked together, seeing Hannah come through a couple of dangerous spots with the help of Jude had me smiling what a hero, I do highly recommend this one, it is an awesome story, and those who have read The Farmer’s Friend will love being back in Featherwood. Fiona McArthur is one of my favourite authors and truly you have done it again written another page turner filled with emotion and love.
My thanks to Penguin AU for my copy to read and review.
Dr. Hannah Rogan has come to visit her bestie Gracie in Featherwood, she is escaping her abusive ex, once here she realises that his is the place she should make her home, they need a doctor and there is the perfect house and consulting rooms for her, this small town has rebuilt since the devastating fires one year ago the perfect place for Hannah to re-start.
Hannah is settling in well and has hired local nurse and midwife Nell, one of her first patients is a very ill young teenager Leo, his father Jude makes a lasting impression on Hannah although there is talk about what is really going on at Luna Downs, their property, and Hannah does not want any trouble.
Jude has been through so much in the last year and he is worried about Leo, the new doctor is very good at picking up Leo’s problem and he is very attracted to her and it now seems that they will be seeing quite a bit of each other. His life has changed a lot in the last year and he is enjoying helping others to change their lives, will his future see someone else in it?
The rains start and do not stop, the creeks and rivers are rising and it looks pretty much like the town will go under water, after all they have been through, but these residents of Featherwood are resilient and never give up. Jude and his crew with Liam and Jed work tirelessly to save property as do the woman Hannah, Gracie, Molly and Nell, and we can’t forget Mavis, Leo and Archie, my heart was pounding throughout this wonderful story of resilience, spirit and strength, seeing friends in such dangerous positions, how will it all turn out?
Oh I loved this one and yes there were tears from me and lots of cheers as these people worked together, seeing Hannah come through a couple of dangerous spots with the help of Jude had me smiling what a hero, I do highly recommend this one, it is an awesome story, and those who have read The Farmer’s Friend will love being back in Featherwood. Fiona McArthur is one of my favourite authors and truly you have done it again written another page turner filled with emotion and love.
My thanks to Penguin AU for my copy to read and review.
September 10, 2023
As the River Rises is a wonderful story of romance, resilience, and renewal from bestselling author Fiona McArthur.
If you’ve read The Farmer’s Friend, then the town of small Northern New South Wales town of Featherwood and its residents will be familiar. In that novel, the focus was on the romance of former midwife Nell, and ex-soldier, Liam, while the town itself was ravaged by the Black Summer bushfires. As the River Rises is set about a year later.
The romance in As the River Rises develops between Featherwood newcomer, Dr Hannah Rogan, and enigmatic widower, Jude Waugh, who meet when Jude brings his sick son into Hannah’s newly opened GP clinic. It’s a lovely romance, with believable chemistry, which develops reasonably slowly as befits two people whose hearts are tender. Hannah, who moved to Featherwood in part to escape the fallout of a bad relationship, is wary of rumours about Jude’s troubled past, and Jude isolated himself after the death of his wife.
Almost overshadowing the romance in As the River Rises is plenty of drama and action. In the novel, as in real life, many rural towns had barely recovered from the destruction of the 2019/2020 bushfires when they were devastated by widespread flooding. Featherwood falls victim to a torrent of water that destroys homes and infrastructure, sweeps away livestock, and threatens lives. There’s high tension as various characters find themselves in dangerous situations, and in the aftermath of the flood, there is further drama with a sudden death, and a terrifying attack. Thankfully these stresses are countered by the heartwarming community spirit on display as the characters rally to help and protect one another.
Drawing on her own familiarity with small town life, natural disasters, and rural medicine, McArthur infuses As the River Rises with genuine emotion, thrilling drama and heartfelt sincerity. A must read for fans of the contemporary rural genre.
If you’ve read The Farmer’s Friend, then the town of small Northern New South Wales town of Featherwood and its residents will be familiar. In that novel, the focus was on the romance of former midwife Nell, and ex-soldier, Liam, while the town itself was ravaged by the Black Summer bushfires. As the River Rises is set about a year later.
The romance in As the River Rises develops between Featherwood newcomer, Dr Hannah Rogan, and enigmatic widower, Jude Waugh, who meet when Jude brings his sick son into Hannah’s newly opened GP clinic. It’s a lovely romance, with believable chemistry, which develops reasonably slowly as befits two people whose hearts are tender. Hannah, who moved to Featherwood in part to escape the fallout of a bad relationship, is wary of rumours about Jude’s troubled past, and Jude isolated himself after the death of his wife.
Almost overshadowing the romance in As the River Rises is plenty of drama and action. In the novel, as in real life, many rural towns had barely recovered from the destruction of the 2019/2020 bushfires when they were devastated by widespread flooding. Featherwood falls victim to a torrent of water that destroys homes and infrastructure, sweeps away livestock, and threatens lives. There’s high tension as various characters find themselves in dangerous situations, and in the aftermath of the flood, there is further drama with a sudden death, and a terrifying attack. Thankfully these stresses are countered by the heartwarming community spirit on display as the characters rally to help and protect one another.
Drawing on her own familiarity with small town life, natural disasters, and rural medicine, McArthur infuses As the River Rises with genuine emotion, thrilling drama and heartfelt sincerity. A must read for fans of the contemporary rural genre.
September 1, 2023
Thank you Penguin for sending us a copy to read and review.
Fiona’s “rural romance with an infusion of medical” stories are hearty, pleasing, embracing and inspiring from a truly skilled author that’s adored across the country.
Dr Hannah Rogan decides to move to Featherwood after a boyfriend becomes abusive and her best friend Gracie encourages her.
She finds the town makes her feel comfortable and she needs this fresh start.
Opening her GP practice, one of her first patients is the son of very handsome Jude.
Jude is a single father who has a troubled past.
He doesn’t expect to be attracted to the new doctor as looking after his son and his new illness is keeping him very busy.
When the rain starts and doesn’t seem to stop, the rivers rise and danger is close.
Emotions are high and everyone must come together to save the town.
Will Hannah and Jude find love amongst the hardship of the weather……
Well known for her rural based books with a combination of medical procedures and midwifery added, Fiona’s contemporary romance tales are like an invitation to afternoon tea.
Warm, delectable, fresh, delightful and good company.
No country story isn’t without drama, unfortunate situations and extreme Mother Nature and the author has included many for the reader to relish in.
There’s themes, social issues and community spirit spread throughout as well.
Fiona continues to entertain her audience with charming and delightful plots.
With a welcoming cover and title and a commanding Aussie but harsh backdrop, this book will warm the insides with tenderness.
Fiona’s “rural romance with an infusion of medical” stories are hearty, pleasing, embracing and inspiring from a truly skilled author that’s adored across the country.
Dr Hannah Rogan decides to move to Featherwood after a boyfriend becomes abusive and her best friend Gracie encourages her.
She finds the town makes her feel comfortable and she needs this fresh start.
Opening her GP practice, one of her first patients is the son of very handsome Jude.
Jude is a single father who has a troubled past.
He doesn’t expect to be attracted to the new doctor as looking after his son and his new illness is keeping him very busy.
When the rain starts and doesn’t seem to stop, the rivers rise and danger is close.
Emotions are high and everyone must come together to save the town.
Will Hannah and Jude find love amongst the hardship of the weather……
Well known for her rural based books with a combination of medical procedures and midwifery added, Fiona’s contemporary romance tales are like an invitation to afternoon tea.
Warm, delectable, fresh, delightful and good company.
No country story isn’t without drama, unfortunate situations and extreme Mother Nature and the author has included many for the reader to relish in.
There’s themes, social issues and community spirit spread throughout as well.
Fiona continues to entertain her audience with charming and delightful plots.
With a welcoming cover and title and a commanding Aussie but harsh backdrop, this book will warm the insides with tenderness.
November 17, 2023
I really enjoyed this wonderful, real life story. Experiencing any natural disaster is fraught with emotions. The way Fiona McArthur describes the flooding event and the interaction of the wonderful characters we've come to know in previous books, is so real and all-encompassing, I couldn't put it down. Add an attractive but troubled Doctor, a strong and stoic matriarch, two teenaged boys and a band of rehabilitated men, saved by someone with his own cross to bear, and this story becomes un-put-downable!
August 14, 2024
The Koru Award for 2024 long romance, wow!
This book brings out all the problems in a small town that go through natural disasters.
After losing all to fire, then not long after flood, a small town pull together, fighting to stay positive and supportive for each other through hard times.
I really enjoyed the roarness of emotions and how life would be living remotely through these land natural disasters.
Loved it Fiona McArthur 😍
This book brings out all the problems in a small town that go through natural disasters.
After losing all to fire, then not long after flood, a small town pull together, fighting to stay positive and supportive for each other through hard times.
I really enjoyed the roarness of emotions and how life would be living remotely through these land natural disasters.
Loved it Fiona McArthur 😍
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 23, 2023
Excellent
November 12, 2025
I love the rich tapestry of these interconnected stories from Fiona McArthur. I enjoy her rural communities, relatable characters, realistic impacts of rural life (fires, floods etc), as well as the romantic storyline.
October 28, 2023
What a joy it was returning to Featherwood and reconnecting with the friends I made through The Farmers Friend. This charming tiny NSW town has a knack of displaying community spirit and resilience, as proven in the previous years drought and bushfires.
Featherwood also welcomes newcomers into their arms. In As the River Rises, we are introduced to Hannah, a GP running from her nasty ex boyfriend, and Jude, a reluctant hero who's withdrawn completely to escape his own tribulant past.
When Jude runs into Hannah's surgery with a extremely ill son, the friendly doctor immediately jumps into action, diagnosing the problem straight away.
Of course, Jude is incredibly grateful and develops a crush on the blonde. The feeling is mutual- but they're both hurting so deeply. When a flood emergency rises, effectively placing the town under threat once more, both doctor and stonemason push those emotions aside in order to mark their place in a community that they're now willing to call home.
This was a sweet follow up. Instead of placing Jude and Hannah's romance centre stage, it took a back seat until the drama was resolved. I totally love how well suited they are- both compassionate, fiercely protective and non judgemental.
Hannah's dad, Richard is a hoot. Can we please have his story next? I also need more Archie and Leo content!! They're bros without being bros. Also, I cried when a beloved character passed away.
Thanks for another great read Fiona!
4.75 🌟
Featherwood also welcomes newcomers into their arms. In As the River Rises, we are introduced to Hannah, a GP running from her nasty ex boyfriend, and Jude, a reluctant hero who's withdrawn completely to escape his own tribulant past.
When Jude runs into Hannah's surgery with a extremely ill son, the friendly doctor immediately jumps into action, diagnosing the problem straight away.
Of course, Jude is incredibly grateful and develops a crush on the blonde. The feeling is mutual- but they're both hurting so deeply. When a flood emergency rises, effectively placing the town under threat once more, both doctor and stonemason push those emotions aside in order to mark their place in a community that they're now willing to call home.
This was a sweet follow up. Instead of placing Jude and Hannah's romance centre stage, it took a back seat until the drama was resolved. I totally love how well suited they are- both compassionate, fiercely protective and non judgemental.
Hannah's dad, Richard is a hoot. Can we please have his story next? I also need more Archie and Leo content!! They're bros without being bros. Also, I cried when a beloved character passed away.
Thanks for another great read Fiona!
4.75 🌟
October 13, 2023
Absolutely loved, loved, loved As The River Rises. Ended up binge reading because I couldn’t put it down. Turn the phone off, grab something to drink & nibble & settle in to get immersed in the story of Hannah & Jude.
May 20, 2025
Another fabulous read, somehow I always know there will be tears along with the joy from spending time with the characters Fiona McArthur writes.
Full thoughts to come.
Full thoughts to come.
February 28, 2026
4 ⭐️s
Audiobook via BorrowBox
Published by: Penguin Random House Australia Audio
Read by Caroline Lee
Duration: 9 hrs 1.25x Speed
May 4, 2025
I listened to audio book and was good and you won't be disappointed. I liked Opal Miners Daughter better though, but maybe that's because that was the one I heard first. I could also relate to that drier environment more too. Maybe a 3.5-4 star. At the end you get to hear the Author talk to the Narrator.
October 10, 2023
Set in the same town, Featherwood, Northern New South Wales, as the author’s novel “The Farmer’s Friend”, this story revolves around Dr. Hannah Rogan who moves there from Roma, Queensland. Touching upon such topics as coercive control, drug and alcohol addiction, homelessness and medical issues it also highlights the sense of community and togetherness when floods hit the town which had previously suffered through bushfires. Jude Waugh has kept himself aloof from the town, concentrating on his son and employees after the death of his wife. When he meets Hannah through his sick son and the floods hit his life starts to change. Each chapter is told through the eyes of the main characters which I found interesting and enjoyable. I wasn’t, however, overly impressed with the way the romance was written and expressed. A pleasant rural story with some hard hitting undertones.
March 16, 2024
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book. The author’s description of both the setting and the characters gave me a real sense of community spirit. It showed how everyone in the small community pulled together when the flood waters came, and helped each other. This was a story filled with tension but which showed the strength of the towns people who were at risk of losing everything once the rain came and didn’t stop.
This was an unputdownable story for me and I recommend it to those readers who enjoy a contemporary rural story with a bit of romance in the mix.
This was an unputdownable story for me and I recommend it to those readers who enjoy a contemporary rural story with a bit of romance in the mix.
September 21, 2023
Excellent listen. 5 stars!! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
September 28, 2023
AS THE RIVER RISES by Fiona McCarthy is published by Penguin Random House September 2023
Review by Lorraine Parker
As the River Rises is indeed a romance, action packed, geographical novel set in the region between Coffs Harbour, Dorrigo and Armidale.
The prologue introduces Dr Hannah Rogan as the central character. Hannah needs to get away from Roma in Queensland and who better to go to but her friend Gracie who is many miles away.
My curiosity is immediately piqued.
McCarthy introduces many of the key players who live in Featherwood, Hannah’s destination, in the first two chapter: Gracie and Jed, and Nell who is a mid-wife, about 25 and “model trim and elegant”. Hannah feels an immediate affiliation with Nell.
Each chapter (amidst the constant rain), introduces more personalities or reveals more of respective lives; Molly with her only sibling Liam ( in a relationship with Nell); 81 year old Mavis who is rearing her great grandson Archie, and Jude Waugh whose wife has died leaving him to care for his 12 year old son, Leo. Jude owns an extensive property of 1,000 acres, between Dorrigo and Armidale. He is slightly mysterious and private but close Leo. Leo is not well and in need of urgent medical advice.
Hannah has taken the plunge, moving to Featherwood permanently. She sets up practice sets in an ideal location, on the high side of the street and in a five bedroom spacious house Her wealthy father Richard is her only contact from her past. Nell (as is easy to foresee) is the ideal receptionist, nurse and if necessary midwife assistant.
The stage is set. Hannah, who has left her husband behind forever (safely in jail), bruised but strong, efficient as a doctor, caring, gorgeous and defensive of course. Jude who is semi-alone, handsome, well built, capable and, as the rivers rise, on hand at every catastrophe! Two ‘heroes’ of completely different ilk.
To reveal any more would spoil this vividly written, idealistic (for this modern era) but appealing country town in flood emergency. It is quite a saga and although the continual swapping of characters is disconcerting in the beginning, I am compelled to read on.
A perfect read for a younger person who thrives on romanticism and ‘escapism. Another Australian novel set in a known (to many), geographical location. However I am not so easily convinced of the many dramatic happenings and rescues, and coincidences of time, happenings and place.
There are two climaxes, and for me, again foreseeable but not in complete detail. Quite fantastic and fitting for this story.
Review by Lorraine Parker
As the River Rises is indeed a romance, action packed, geographical novel set in the region between Coffs Harbour, Dorrigo and Armidale.
The prologue introduces Dr Hannah Rogan as the central character. Hannah needs to get away from Roma in Queensland and who better to go to but her friend Gracie who is many miles away.
My curiosity is immediately piqued.
McCarthy introduces many of the key players who live in Featherwood, Hannah’s destination, in the first two chapter: Gracie and Jed, and Nell who is a mid-wife, about 25 and “model trim and elegant”. Hannah feels an immediate affiliation with Nell.
Each chapter (amidst the constant rain), introduces more personalities or reveals more of respective lives; Molly with her only sibling Liam ( in a relationship with Nell); 81 year old Mavis who is rearing her great grandson Archie, and Jude Waugh whose wife has died leaving him to care for his 12 year old son, Leo. Jude owns an extensive property of 1,000 acres, between Dorrigo and Armidale. He is slightly mysterious and private but close Leo. Leo is not well and in need of urgent medical advice.
Hannah has taken the plunge, moving to Featherwood permanently. She sets up practice sets in an ideal location, on the high side of the street and in a five bedroom spacious house Her wealthy father Richard is her only contact from her past. Nell (as is easy to foresee) is the ideal receptionist, nurse and if necessary midwife assistant.
The stage is set. Hannah, who has left her husband behind forever (safely in jail), bruised but strong, efficient as a doctor, caring, gorgeous and defensive of course. Jude who is semi-alone, handsome, well built, capable and, as the rivers rise, on hand at every catastrophe! Two ‘heroes’ of completely different ilk.
To reveal any more would spoil this vividly written, idealistic (for this modern era) but appealing country town in flood emergency. It is quite a saga and although the continual swapping of characters is disconcerting in the beginning, I am compelled to read on.
A perfect read for a younger person who thrives on romanticism and ‘escapism. Another Australian novel set in a known (to many), geographical location. However I am not so easily convinced of the many dramatic happenings and rescues, and coincidences of time, happenings and place.
There are two climaxes, and for me, again foreseeable but not in complete detail. Quite fantastic and fitting for this story.
March 22, 2025
Dr. Hannah Rogan moves from Queensland to NSW to get away from an abusive ex & to spend time with her good friend Gracie. She opens a General Practice in Featherwood, much to the delight of its inhabitants who usually have to travel to the nearest large town for medical treatment. There she meets the mysterious Jude Waugh, an unfortunate name but a very useful man to have around in an emergency.
There is so much happening here, so much drama, but the tale really works because it's well-written, the pacing is good, & the characters are engaging. I love the sense of community in this tiny town of Featherwood, set in New England, somewhere between Dorrigo & Armidale. Given the horrors that extreme weather is inflicting on the town, fires one year & floods the next, the townsfolk surely have to band together & support each other or there may be no Featherwood left.
I did think Hannah's experience with the livewire was one extreme too many, especially as her crazy ex-boyfriend was bringing enough melodrama with him. The rest of the flood-fuelled incidents were sufficiently exciting, & Jude already amply heroic, without that little piece of gratuitous research.
Told from various points of view - Hannah, Molly, Mavis & Jude -, the story flows really well & I had no trouble keeping track of who we were with. All the characters are well-drawn & recognisable. 4.5★ rounded up.
I didn't know this going in, but this book is #11 in what appears to be a loosely linked series, Aussie Outback Medical. I didn't feel at any disadvantage for not having read any of the other books. In fact, it's a bonus to find that this author has such a large back catalogue for me to peruse. I see that Gracie & Jed's story is told in the previous book, The Farmer’s Friend, which may be my next port of call.
There is so much happening here, so much drama, but the tale really works because it's well-written, the pacing is good, & the characters are engaging. I love the sense of community in this tiny town of Featherwood, set in New England, somewhere between Dorrigo & Armidale. Given the horrors that extreme weather is inflicting on the town, fires one year & floods the next, the townsfolk surely have to band together & support each other or there may be no Featherwood left.
I did think Hannah's experience with the livewire was one extreme too many, especially as her crazy ex-boyfriend was bringing enough melodrama with him. The rest of the flood-fuelled incidents were sufficiently exciting, & Jude already amply heroic, without that little piece of gratuitous research.
Told from various points of view - Hannah, Molly, Mavis & Jude -, the story flows really well & I had no trouble keeping track of who we were with. All the characters are well-drawn & recognisable. 4.5★ rounded up.
I didn't know this going in, but this book is #11 in what appears to be a loosely linked series, Aussie Outback Medical. I didn't feel at any disadvantage for not having read any of the other books. In fact, it's a bonus to find that this author has such a large back catalogue for me to peruse. I see that Gracie & Jed's story is told in the previous book, The Farmer’s Friend, which may be my next port of call.
March 10, 2024
This is a fantastic read and continues on from the Farmer's Friend, but is also a book you can read standalone.
The main story revolves around Dr Hannah Rogan, A friend of now local girl, Gracie, who comes to visit the country town of Featherwood. Hannah falls in love with the town and the colorful characters in it and decides to move, as the town needs a doctor, and the doctor needs to hide from an abusive ex who is due to be set free from prison soon.
Hannah's first patient is the very quiet and broody Jude who brings his very sick son in to be diagnosed. As it turns out his sons illness will bring the doc and he together quite regularly.
As heavy rains start to fall, the town and its people are in danger of losing everything and for that matter each other as floods ravage the town at speed.
They all work together as a team to try and save whatever they can of their belongings and each others lives.
A great mix of small town communities and undeniable love and romance.
The main story revolves around Dr Hannah Rogan, A friend of now local girl, Gracie, who comes to visit the country town of Featherwood. Hannah falls in love with the town and the colorful characters in it and decides to move, as the town needs a doctor, and the doctor needs to hide from an abusive ex who is due to be set free from prison soon.
Hannah's first patient is the very quiet and broody Jude who brings his very sick son in to be diagnosed. As it turns out his sons illness will bring the doc and he together quite regularly.
As heavy rains start to fall, the town and its people are in danger of losing everything and for that matter each other as floods ravage the town at speed.
They all work together as a team to try and save whatever they can of their belongings and each others lives.
A great mix of small town communities and undeniable love and romance.
December 6, 2023
Australian contemporary drama at its best!
Dr. Hannah Rogan leaves Roma, Queensland, to escape a tumultuous relationship, relocating to Featherwood in New South Wales. She sets up a medical practice and home in an area recovering from devastating bushfires.
Hannah, Nell, Gracie, reclusive Jude Waugh, his son, Leo and the other characters are beautifully constructed. I felt so much compassion for them and their community.
As the rains begin and the creeks overflow, the river breaches its banks, and the town faces the threat of losing everything again! It was a true testament to the Aussie spirit, the harshness of our climate and extreme seasonal weather.
'As the River Rises' is a captivating work by the talented Australian author Fiona McArthur, who skillfully weaves a narrative of heartbreak, resilience, and community solidarity. Filled with tension, the strength of the townspeople, and gripping suspense.
Dr. Hannah Rogan leaves Roma, Queensland, to escape a tumultuous relationship, relocating to Featherwood in New South Wales. She sets up a medical practice and home in an area recovering from devastating bushfires.
Hannah, Nell, Gracie, reclusive Jude Waugh, his son, Leo and the other characters are beautifully constructed. I felt so much compassion for them and their community.
As the rains begin and the creeks overflow, the river breaches its banks, and the town faces the threat of losing everything again! It was a true testament to the Aussie spirit, the harshness of our climate and extreme seasonal weather.
'As the River Rises' is a captivating work by the talented Australian author Fiona McArthur, who skillfully weaves a narrative of heartbreak, resilience, and community solidarity. Filled with tension, the strength of the townspeople, and gripping suspense.
January 16, 2024
I have read at least 20 plus books by this author. I have cried, laughed, and been transported to the wilds of Australia. This author takes you there through the power of her words, skillfully to where the books are set. I have been immersed in each story. This book continues on with characters that are real and multidimensional. I had to remind myself, as I wept over the death of Mavis, that it was just a story. The powerful writing in each of Fiona MacArthur’s books brings to life characters and the setting. I got hooked starting with the series about the flying doctors. Last night I told my daughter I needed to get back to riding the Orient Express. I got a strange look. I explained the current book I was reading set was on the Orient Express. I have read approximately a book a day from this author lately. Her writing style is so powerful. I highly recommend not just the title, but any book written by her.
May 27, 2024
Exciting, fabulous fast-paced plot🌊
The first few chapters were a bit too heavy with details and introduction of a lot of characters at once, but then the drama and romance started and it became an edge of your seat adventure with romance developing in trying times. Jude and Dr. Hannah (the leads) confronted challenge after challenge within a short period that put their characters on full display, allowing their attraction to grow naturally as they watched each other perform with courage and compassion.
I loved the subplots for some of the other locals too, especially 81 year old Mavis and her great nephew Archie's tight bond, young Leo's diabetic crisis and the determination and resilience of those devastated by the natural disaster.
So many elements in this fast-paced romance with loads of action. Once I started reading and the waters started rising, I just could not lay the story down.
The first few chapters were a bit too heavy with details and introduction of a lot of characters at once, but then the drama and romance started and it became an edge of your seat adventure with romance developing in trying times. Jude and Dr. Hannah (the leads) confronted challenge after challenge within a short period that put their characters on full display, allowing their attraction to grow naturally as they watched each other perform with courage and compassion.
I loved the subplots for some of the other locals too, especially 81 year old Mavis and her great nephew Archie's tight bond, young Leo's diabetic crisis and the determination and resilience of those devastated by the natural disaster.
So many elements in this fast-paced romance with loads of action. Once I started reading and the waters started rising, I just could not lay the story down.
November 9, 2023
Hello Everyone .....I finished a fabulous book its called As The River Rises by Fiona McArthur this is the first book I have read from Fiona's long list of books so will be looking for more..........the story is about Dr. Hannah who decides to leave her home in Queensland and her abusive ex boyfriend and move to Featherwood where her best friend Gracie lives with her family ........Fiona has covered many issues in this story it is heartwarming but at the same time thrilling and can be sad .............so do yourselves a favour and enjoy...😀
July 3, 2024
If you’ve read The Farmer’s Friend then the setting of this one will be very familiar. We are returning to Featherwood in rural northern New South Wales with a familiar cast of supporting characters and two new main characters. Hannah is Gracie’s friend and a chance visit leads her to move to Featherwood to open a GP office. The town desperately needs one and Hannah has a steady stream of patients from the very beginning. One of her first patients is the young son of a mysterious man named Jude who lives on a property out of town. No one seems to know much about him but that doesn’t stop the rumours flying. Hannah is fleeing an abusive relationship and the last thing she needs is the be drawn in by the mysterious man but…..she can’t help it. There’s something there. She just has to hope that her instincts aren’t leading her wrong.
It was such a delight to be back here, reconnecting with characters like Gracie and Jed, Nell, Mavis and her grandson Archie. In the previous book, the community was facing the threat and aftermath of bushfires and now it’s the complete opposite, with pouring rain that is in danger of bringing terrible floods instead. Parts of the country have been really hammered by natural weather phenomenon lately and it honestly doesn’t feel uncommon to go from one extreme to the other.
The way Fiona McArthur writes the weather is so……incredibly evocative, there are some truly terrifying moments in this book. I’ve never lived through a flood although the area I grew up has flooded once or twice since I left. I’ve lived through bushfires and evacuation and being sent home early but I’ve never lived anywhere when there was genuine threat of a terrifying flood. However I’ve watched so many documentaries and news reports especially on places like Lismore, that flooded multiple times in recent years. I felt like reading this book really captured the experience of not just the awful, devastating weather event, where people who lost their homes in a fire face losing them again in a flood, but also the ways in which communities come together to help in the face of such adversity. Everyone in this book pitches in in some way or another, be it housing those that have been forced to flee, search and rescue, providing food and meals and comfort, helping to provide medical care, helping move stock and belongings to higher ground. You see examples of this in real life scenarios all the time and this book encapsulates that human spirit and connection so well.
I really enjoyed the romance. Jude was my sort of hero and I found his backstory really interesting. I liked the contrast between him and Hannah and I also loved his relationship with his son. Also what Jude was doing on his farm would make a great book all on its own. I understood Hannah’s conflicted feelings though as Jude is a bit reticent and standoffish and given her history with her previous boyfriend, you can see why she’d want to know more about him, to be wary of falling for the aloof one on the gated property. Small towns are always rife with rumours, especially about people who don’t seem to conform to the norm and there’s definitely been a few thoughts about what Jude might be up to. Leo, his son, is a great kid and he and Archie make a great little dynamic duo.
This book gave me all the emotions! It’s so heartwarming, I love the community but it also really made me fear for certain people and not going to lie, I definitely teared up twice.
A must read.
It was such a delight to be back here, reconnecting with characters like Gracie and Jed, Nell, Mavis and her grandson Archie. In the previous book, the community was facing the threat and aftermath of bushfires and now it’s the complete opposite, with pouring rain that is in danger of bringing terrible floods instead. Parts of the country have been really hammered by natural weather phenomenon lately and it honestly doesn’t feel uncommon to go from one extreme to the other.
The way Fiona McArthur writes the weather is so……incredibly evocative, there are some truly terrifying moments in this book. I’ve never lived through a flood although the area I grew up has flooded once or twice since I left. I’ve lived through bushfires and evacuation and being sent home early but I’ve never lived anywhere when there was genuine threat of a terrifying flood. However I’ve watched so many documentaries and news reports especially on places like Lismore, that flooded multiple times in recent years. I felt like reading this book really captured the experience of not just the awful, devastating weather event, where people who lost their homes in a fire face losing them again in a flood, but also the ways in which communities come together to help in the face of such adversity. Everyone in this book pitches in in some way or another, be it housing those that have been forced to flee, search and rescue, providing food and meals and comfort, helping to provide medical care, helping move stock and belongings to higher ground. You see examples of this in real life scenarios all the time and this book encapsulates that human spirit and connection so well.
I really enjoyed the romance. Jude was my sort of hero and I found his backstory really interesting. I liked the contrast between him and Hannah and I also loved his relationship with his son. Also what Jude was doing on his farm would make a great book all on its own. I understood Hannah’s conflicted feelings though as Jude is a bit reticent and standoffish and given her history with her previous boyfriend, you can see why she’d want to know more about him, to be wary of falling for the aloof one on the gated property. Small towns are always rife with rumours, especially about people who don’t seem to conform to the norm and there’s definitely been a few thoughts about what Jude might be up to. Leo, his son, is a great kid and he and Archie make a great little dynamic duo.
This book gave me all the emotions! It’s so heartwarming, I love the community but it also really made me fear for certain people and not going to lie, I definitely teared up twice.
A must read.
January 3, 2024
so turns out i probably should have read “The Farmers Friend” first since that book is also set in Featherdale and has the other characters like Nell and Liam and Gracie. I felt like this book as a standalone doesnt really work as theres not enough introductions to the characters. This book is about Hannah who escaped her abusive druggo ex in QLD and moves to a small town in regional NSW where her lifelong bff Gracie lives
May 16, 2024
A Very Good Book
This was such a fun book and the characters were awesome. There was good information for flood safety. Also there were good tips on cleanup after a flood. The values of family and friends was very enlightening. The romance stories were pure awesome. The help of Jude to his addicted friends was so nice.I enjoyed this book from start to finish.
This was such a fun book and the characters were awesome. There was good information for flood safety. Also there were good tips on cleanup after a flood. The values of family and friends was very enlightening. The romance stories were pure awesome. The help of Jude to his addicted friends was so nice.I enjoyed this book from start to finish.
January 12, 2025
Sweet country community rallying together support each other during heavy rain and the hair coming floods, just years after a while both fires. Newcomers Jude and Hannah find comfort in one another after difficult situations and supporting Judes son Leo after diabetic diagnoses and Hannah's abusive past relationship. Sweet story and quickly wrapped up at the end with funny humorous chapters
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 11, 2023
A lovely read of small Australian town that has already faced destructive fires and now floods. It portrays a town of people prepared to help each other even if risking their own safety. Worth the read for the inspiration you receive.
July 25, 2024
I enjoyed the book as Fiona is a favourite author however it got a bit too lovey towards the end. Hannah was a strong character to start with but towards the end she become a helpless female. I think she could have been made a strong competent woman plus a love interest.
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