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Woodlea #2
The Red Dirt Road
Will facing the past bring them together?
After losing a patient, Dr Fliss Knight returns to small town Woodlea and buys a run-down farm, her confidence and city career in tatters. She intends to live a solitary life and hopes that the slow country pace will help her heal.
Pickup rider Hewitt Sinclair is no stranger to how hairy things can get in a rodeo arena. But when he can’t save the life of his twin brother, he hangs up his spurs. Determined to provide for his brother’s widow and young family, he gives himself no time to grieve. But when a motorbike accident proves he needs to also look out for himself, he accepts an old friend’s invitation to stay at an isolated property while his body heals.
When Fliss meets the cowboy living in the bluestone stables across the garden, all her hopes for a quiet and peaceful life fade. Despite his reserve, Hewitt is impossible to ignore. As they work together to care for an abandoned dog and her puppies, they find themselves drawn to each other.
But as a family secret threatens every truth Fliss has ever known, and the heavy spring rain continues to fall, both Fliss and Hewitt must face their deepest fears. Will love be enough to guarantee happiness, or will the past refuse to relinquish its dark hold?
After losing a patient, Dr Fliss Knight returns to small town Woodlea and buys a run-down farm, her confidence and city career in tatters. She intends to live a solitary life and hopes that the slow country pace will help her heal.
Pickup rider Hewitt Sinclair is no stranger to how hairy things can get in a rodeo arena. But when he can’t save the life of his twin brother, he hangs up his spurs. Determined to provide for his brother’s widow and young family, he gives himself no time to grieve. But when a motorbike accident proves he needs to also look out for himself, he accepts an old friend’s invitation to stay at an isolated property while his body heals.
When Fliss meets the cowboy living in the bluestone stables across the garden, all her hopes for a quiet and peaceful life fade. Despite his reserve, Hewitt is impossible to ignore. As they work together to care for an abandoned dog and her puppies, they find themselves drawn to each other.
But as a family secret threatens every truth Fliss has ever known, and the heavy spring rain continues to fall, both Fliss and Hewitt must face their deepest fears. Will love be enough to guarantee happiness, or will the past refuse to relinquish its dark hold?
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First published January 22, 2018
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About the author
Alissa Callen
38 books301 followersWhen USA Today bestselling author Alissa Callen isn’t writing she plays traffic controller to four children, three dogs, two horses and one renegade cow who really does believe the grass is greener on the other side of the fence. After a childhood spent chasing sheep on the family farm, Alissa has always been drawn to remote areas and small towns, even when residing overseas. Once a teacher and a counsellor, she remains interested in the life journeys that people take. She also is partial to historic homesteads and country gardens and has been known to drive hours to see an open-garden. She currently lives on a small slice of rural Australia in central western New South Wales.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 53 reviews
March 24, 2019
Confidence shattered after losing a patient, Dr Fliss Knight quit her job in the city and returned to Woodlea where she’d grown up. She bought a run-down farm, just outside the edge of town and started to sort through her life, hoping the calm serenity would help her heal. When her sister and brother in law, Cressy and Denham asked her to let their friend Hewitt Sinclair, lodge in her stables and work odd jobs around her farm while he healed from a motor bike accident, and the loss of his twin brother, Fliss wasn’t sure. But her caring nature saw her agreeing to the few weeks Hewitt would need.
Fliss’ doctor side showed when she assessed Hewitt and the obvious pain he was in. But he continued to assure her he was fine. Meantime, Hewitt could see Fliss was hurting, though she covered it well. When a sheepdog was discovered in Fliss’ shed, surrounded by six tiny puppies, their combined goal of caring for the animals and searching for the owners, meant Fliss and Hewitt were together more than each would like.
What would be the outcome for these two caring people who had seen tragedy? And what was the secret that Fliss suddenly unearthed? Could she find answers?
The Red Dirt Road is the 2nd in the Woodlea series by Aussie author Alissa Callen and I thoroughly enjoyed it. I recently read #3 just prior to publication and realized I hadn’t read this one. Now rectified! Set in rural NSW, where instead of drought the rain fell relentlessly, with creeks flooding, and the danger of bridges washing away was high on their list of concerns. The violent thunderstorms are familiar (we had one last night) and the friendliness of locals in a small country town is legendary. (Except for Edna!) An excellent rural romance which I recommend.
Fliss’ doctor side showed when she assessed Hewitt and the obvious pain he was in. But he continued to assure her he was fine. Meantime, Hewitt could see Fliss was hurting, though she covered it well. When a sheepdog was discovered in Fliss’ shed, surrounded by six tiny puppies, their combined goal of caring for the animals and searching for the owners, meant Fliss and Hewitt were together more than each would like.
What would be the outcome for these two caring people who had seen tragedy? And what was the secret that Fliss suddenly unearthed? Could she find answers?
The Red Dirt Road is the 2nd in the Woodlea series by Aussie author Alissa Callen and I thoroughly enjoyed it. I recently read #3 just prior to publication and realized I hadn’t read this one. Now rectified! Set in rural NSW, where instead of drought the rain fell relentlessly, with creeks flooding, and the danger of bridges washing away was high on their list of concerns. The violent thunderstorms are familiar (we had one last night) and the friendliness of locals in a small country town is legendary. (Except for Edna!) An excellent rural romance which I recommend.
January 23, 2019
4.5 stars
I’m one happy person to see Fliss have her own story and I had to laugh when I thought the person she was going to be matched up with (first book is to blame lol) turned out to be someone completely different, oh well, still a great hero!
The Red Dirt Road by Alissa Callen is the 2nd book in the Woodlea series. A gorgeous tale set in the fictional town of Woodlea, country NSW not far from the town of Orange, a place where gossip by one particular person is alive and well but also a community that comes together when it matters. I honestly loved this story. All characters were just so lovely and of course Fliss and Hewitt, the central characters were captivating.
The family tree mystery had me on the edge of my seat, a great touch to the storyline.
I didn’t expect to love this one as much as I did. A beautiful moving story with some humorous moments that gave me the feels and the smiles.
I’m one happy person to see Fliss have her own story and I had to laugh when I thought the person she was going to be matched up with (first book is to blame lol) turned out to be someone completely different, oh well, still a great hero!
The Red Dirt Road by Alissa Callen is the 2nd book in the Woodlea series. A gorgeous tale set in the fictional town of Woodlea, country NSW not far from the town of Orange, a place where gossip by one particular person is alive and well but also a community that comes together when it matters. I honestly loved this story. All characters were just so lovely and of course Fliss and Hewitt, the central characters were captivating.
The family tree mystery had me on the edge of my seat, a great touch to the storyline.
I didn’t expect to love this one as much as I did. A beautiful moving story with some humorous moments that gave me the feels and the smiles.
March 21, 2018
The Red Dirt Road is the story of Hewitt Sinclair and Dr Fliss Knight. Dr Fliss Knight came back to her hometown and bought a rural property after the death of one her patients. Hewitt Sinclair came to town to recuperate after a motorbike accident on his family farm. Both Dr Fliss Knight and Hewitt Sinclair have secrets that would either destroy their blossoming relationship or make it stronger. The readers will follow Hewitt Sinclair and Dr Fliss Knight to see what happens.
The Red Dirt Road is the second book I have read of Alissa Callen, and I enjoy it. I differently will read more books by Alissa Callen. I love Alissa Callen portrayal of her characters especially Dr Fliss Knight and Hewitt Sinclair. I love the way Alissa Callen use animals in her books, for example, Reggie, Max and Molly. I like Alissa Callen description of living on an isolated rural property. The Red Dirt Road is well written and researched by Alissa Callen.
The readers of The Red Dirt Road will learn about the role of Pickup riders at Rodeos. Also, the readers of The Red Dirt Road will see that grief and guilt can affect people differently.
I recommend this book.
The Red Dirt Road is the second book I have read of Alissa Callen, and I enjoy it. I differently will read more books by Alissa Callen. I love Alissa Callen portrayal of her characters especially Dr Fliss Knight and Hewitt Sinclair. I love the way Alissa Callen use animals in her books, for example, Reggie, Max and Molly. I like Alissa Callen description of living on an isolated rural property. The Red Dirt Road is well written and researched by Alissa Callen.
The readers of The Red Dirt Road will learn about the role of Pickup riders at Rodeos. Also, the readers of The Red Dirt Road will see that grief and guilt can affect people differently.
I recommend this book.
January 27, 2018
MS Callen has taken us back to Woodlea for another story that flows with love and romance, it brings out the best in the characters that we know and the new ones meet. This one had me sighing, smiling and just feeling really good, as we see Dr Fliss Knight work through her problems to get her HEA with gorgeous rodeo pick-up rider Hewitt Sinclair who has a few demons off his own to overcome as well. Make yourself comfy for this one.
Fliss has moved back to the country to try and get her thoughts together and to see if she can find the love of medicine again, she has her run down farm Bundara and needs to be alone to get her life back on track, of course her sister Cressy and her fiancé Denham are close and they have organized for one of Denham’s friends to come and stay for a while to help with the work load. Little does Fliss realize that this friend, a couple of dogs and some puppies as well as lots of rain are going to help her along, because when she meets Hewitt the peacefulness that she longs for changes. Then throw in a family secret that needs to be uncovered and life is moving.
Hewitt is injured physically and mentally when he arrives to help Fliss with the farm, he has lost his twin brother and feels responsible for his death so he needs to get back on track so as he can care for his widowed sister in law and his twin nephew and niece and get back to running the family farm, but when he first meets Fliss there is a spark that starts to unravel and feelings he needs to control but can he with Fliss being who she is.
This is an amazingly beautiful story it pulled me in with its fabulous setting, awesome characters and such a sensual, charming, beautiful journey for Hewitt and Fliss, both of them had anxieties to overcome and together they did it, I was cheering them on throughout the story with the ups and downs that were thrown their way, there are so many family members and friends as well as Molly, Max and the puppies that added so much to the story, it is one that is going to stay with me for a long time to come. I highly recommend this one MS Callen you rock what a beauty of a story this is one not to be missed, I want to move to Woodlea, I do hope that there will be more stories from Woodlea, Ella, Tanner and Taylor
Fliss has moved back to the country to try and get her thoughts together and to see if she can find the love of medicine again, she has her run down farm Bundara and needs to be alone to get her life back on track, of course her sister Cressy and her fiancé Denham are close and they have organized for one of Denham’s friends to come and stay for a while to help with the work load. Little does Fliss realize that this friend, a couple of dogs and some puppies as well as lots of rain are going to help her along, because when she meets Hewitt the peacefulness that she longs for changes. Then throw in a family secret that needs to be uncovered and life is moving.
Hewitt is injured physically and mentally when he arrives to help Fliss with the farm, he has lost his twin brother and feels responsible for his death so he needs to get back on track so as he can care for his widowed sister in law and his twin nephew and niece and get back to running the family farm, but when he first meets Fliss there is a spark that starts to unravel and feelings he needs to control but can he with Fliss being who she is.
This is an amazingly beautiful story it pulled me in with its fabulous setting, awesome characters and such a sensual, charming, beautiful journey for Hewitt and Fliss, both of them had anxieties to overcome and together they did it, I was cheering them on throughout the story with the ups and downs that were thrown their way, there are so many family members and friends as well as Molly, Max and the puppies that added so much to the story, it is one that is going to stay with me for a long time to come. I highly recommend this one MS Callen you rock what a beauty of a story this is one not to be missed, I want to move to Woodlea, I do hope that there will be more stories from Woodlea, Ella, Tanner and Taylor
January 14, 2018
The first thing that drew me to the book was it’s cover, I just love the colours, very striking.
Dr Felicity Knight, known as Fliss, has returned to the town she grew up in, she’s lost confidence in herself after an incident in her job in Sydney. For the last number of months, she has been keeping to herself on her property ‘Bundara’ but now she has agreed to let Hewitt Sinclair stay. A favour to her sister Cressy and her partner Denham, she has agreed that Hewitt can do a few odd jobs for her around the place, while he recovers from a farm motorbike accident. Trying to ignore their growing attraction to each other, Fliss and Hewitt have to come to terms with events in each of their lives before they can move on.
This was a gentle moving story, with some humorous moments, especially as everyone tries to keep out of the town gossips way. I enjoyed the healthy respect that Fliss and Hewitt showed towards each other and the book also had a strong sense of family and community and how everyone pulls together in time of need. Throw in a little mystery in the form of an abandoned dog and a family tree oddity to complete a very enjoyable book.
There are a few fun characters in this town and it wasn’t until I finished ‘The Red Dirt Road’ that I found out that this book is actually a revisit to the town of Woodlea. That in its self confirms that this book can be read as a standalone, as I never felt I had missed a previous storyline. As I was nearing the end I had thought....”there are a few more stories to be told in this town.”...and I still think that.
With that said I’m looking forward to reading ‘The Long Paddock’ which is Cressy and Denham’s story.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for a copy to read and review.
Dr Felicity Knight, known as Fliss, has returned to the town she grew up in, she’s lost confidence in herself after an incident in her job in Sydney. For the last number of months, she has been keeping to herself on her property ‘Bundara’ but now she has agreed to let Hewitt Sinclair stay. A favour to her sister Cressy and her partner Denham, she has agreed that Hewitt can do a few odd jobs for her around the place, while he recovers from a farm motorbike accident. Trying to ignore their growing attraction to each other, Fliss and Hewitt have to come to terms with events in each of their lives before they can move on.
This was a gentle moving story, with some humorous moments, especially as everyone tries to keep out of the town gossips way. I enjoyed the healthy respect that Fliss and Hewitt showed towards each other and the book also had a strong sense of family and community and how everyone pulls together in time of need. Throw in a little mystery in the form of an abandoned dog and a family tree oddity to complete a very enjoyable book.
There are a few fun characters in this town and it wasn’t until I finished ‘The Red Dirt Road’ that I found out that this book is actually a revisit to the town of Woodlea. That in its self confirms that this book can be read as a standalone, as I never felt I had missed a previous storyline. As I was nearing the end I had thought....”there are a few more stories to be told in this town.”...and I still think that.
With that said I’m looking forward to reading ‘The Long Paddock’ which is Cressy and Denham’s story.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for a copy to read and review.
January 18, 2018
Set in a rural community where everyone knows everything, there are still some secrets that can be kept. Fliss returns to her hometown to heal from an incident at work that has left her shaken, whilst Hewitt comes to stay to get over his grief. The chemistry from the start between the two is made clear, but we need to follow their healing journey to see if they can move on and make a future alone or together. During her time at home Fliss uncovers a secret that shakes her life and then has to work through that as well as regain her life. I look forward to reading more by Alissa Calen.
Thanks to Netgalley and Harlequin (Australia), TEEN / MIRA for an advanced copy in return for a honest review
Thanks to Netgalley and Harlequin (Australia), TEEN / MIRA for an advanced copy in return for a honest review
October 26, 2019
I can’t actually believe that this book has such a high rating.
What a load of waffle!!
He’s so hot but I’m so damaged I can’t go there. Oops I went there. Oh goodness I have to stay away but he’s so hot! Arrrrggggh
She’s gorgeous but I can’t go there cos I’m damaged. Oops I’ve gone there. Oh dear better stay away but she’s so hot. Arrrrrrggggh
Fliss arrrrrggh (hate nicknames)
Cressy arrrrgggh
Denham, Tanner, Hewittt arrrrrgggh
Did this author go out of her way to find the most ridiculous names for everybody in this book???
What a load of waffle!!
He’s so hot but I’m so damaged I can’t go there. Oops I went there. Oh goodness I have to stay away but he’s so hot! Arrrrggggh
She’s gorgeous but I can’t go there cos I’m damaged. Oops I’ve gone there. Oh dear better stay away but she’s so hot. Arrrrrrggggh
Fliss arrrrrggh (hate nicknames)
Cressy arrrrgggh
Denham, Tanner, Hewittt arrrrrgggh
Did this author go out of her way to find the most ridiculous names for everybody in this book???
April 28, 2018
A heartwarming story of healing. I can't wait to revisit the people of Woodlea again.
December 12, 2025
After losing a patient, Dr Fliss Knight returns to the small town of Woodlea and buys a run down farm, her confidence and city career in tatters.
Picking rider Hewitt Sinclair is no stranger to how hairy things can get in a rodeo arena. But when he can't save the life of his twin brother he hands up his spurs.
After a motorbike accident he accepts an invitation to stay at a isolated property until he heals.
Hewitt is determined to look after his brother's family after he has some time to heal and Fliss uncovers a family secret.
Picking rider Hewitt Sinclair is no stranger to how hairy things can get in a rodeo arena. But when he can't save the life of his twin brother he hands up his spurs.
After a motorbike accident he accepts an invitation to stay at a isolated property until he heals.
Hewitt is determined to look after his brother's family after he has some time to heal and Fliss uncovers a family secret.
August 2, 2021
Oh wow Alissa!! I loved this book so much!!!! I loved the story of Fliss and Hewitt!!!
Talk about some twists and turns in there too! You know which ones I'm talking about. You took me on an emotional rollercoaster!!!
Both of them are drawn to Bundara to heal. Both from a loss in different ways. They have each other to lean on, but they can't lean too much. Or at least they don't want to.......at first.
They find that they need each other in more ways than they'd ever know. Fliss needs help around the farm, and he needs help with his broken shoulder. Can they help each other with all of what life has thrown at them?
I love that they kept getting thrown together in events around town. LOVED Cressy lol!! She knew what they both NEEDED, not wanted, and made sure they got it! I also loved the outback storyline too. First time reading Alissa's books and I can't wait to read more! SO GOOD!
I really enjoyed the storyline, the characters, and all the twists that went along with it.
Chapter 8 broke my heart. I cried, and cried, and cried some more.
The end of chapter 19 made me actually gasp cause I DID NOT SEE THAT COMING!!
Thank you Alissa for writing this amazing story. I can't wait to read more about Woodlea!
Some of my fave quotes from the book:
1. It was though as Mother Nature cried the tears that Fliss couldn't yet let fall. - Oh Fliss. You needed a cry by then!
2. Just be different, I wasn't going fast, and I'm pleading the Fifth Amendment about whether I was, or wasn't, wearing a helmet. - Cracked me up. Showed Hewitt's humour coming out.
3. This changes nothing. You are my sister. - The love they have for each other, I love it!!
4. Which is your nice way of saying I was a horror. - ROFL!!! Yes Hewitt that's exactly what Fliss was saying lol!
5. When Fliss was checking out his shoulder at the ride, cracked me up with the shirt! LOL!!!
6. You're stuck with me even if you were lying when you said you preferred brunettes. - I love how they tease each other!
7. Not just a man enough for you, but a once in a lifetime man. - Cressy knows what's up!
Talk about some twists and turns in there too! You know which ones I'm talking about. You took me on an emotional rollercoaster!!!
Both of them are drawn to Bundara to heal. Both from a loss in different ways. They have each other to lean on, but they can't lean too much. Or at least they don't want to.......at first.
They find that they need each other in more ways than they'd ever know. Fliss needs help around the farm, and he needs help with his broken shoulder. Can they help each other with all of what life has thrown at them?
I love that they kept getting thrown together in events around town. LOVED Cressy lol!! She knew what they both NEEDED, not wanted, and made sure they got it! I also loved the outback storyline too. First time reading Alissa's books and I can't wait to read more! SO GOOD!
I really enjoyed the storyline, the characters, and all the twists that went along with it.
Chapter 8 broke my heart. I cried, and cried, and cried some more.
The end of chapter 19 made me actually gasp cause I DID NOT SEE THAT COMING!!
Thank you Alissa for writing this amazing story. I can't wait to read more about Woodlea!
Some of my fave quotes from the book:
1. It was though as Mother Nature cried the tears that Fliss couldn't yet let fall. - Oh Fliss. You needed a cry by then!
2. Just be different, I wasn't going fast, and I'm pleading the Fifth Amendment about whether I was, or wasn't, wearing a helmet. - Cracked me up. Showed Hewitt's humour coming out.
3. This changes nothing. You are my sister. - The love they have for each other, I love it!!
4. Which is your nice way of saying I was a horror. - ROFL!!! Yes Hewitt that's exactly what Fliss was saying lol!
5. When Fliss was checking out his shoulder at the ride, cracked me up with the shirt! LOL!!!
6. You're stuck with me even if you were lying when you said you preferred brunettes. - I love how they tease each other!
7. Not just a man enough for you, but a once in a lifetime man. - Cressy knows what's up!
January 12, 2024
I love when I pick a book randomly, and it turns out to be good. So far, I'm 2 for 3 in good books that I've read over the past three weeks.
Both main characters were immensely likable and the situation that they found themselves in was believable. I love that the romance was a slow burn. By the time anything happened, the reader felt that it was a long time coming. Also, I liked that this was a closed door romance.
I also liked the cast of characters surrounding the main characters. After I finished the book, I looked to see if any of the other characters had novels.
I do think that the writing around the first kiss scene fell short. It was too unexpected and quick. I also did not care for Fliss' big family secret. I really dislike using mothers hiding the identity of children's fathers as a plot device,
Even with those shortcomings, this book was great. I will be reading more from this author.
Casey Withoos is a great narrator
Both main characters were immensely likable and the situation that they found themselves in was believable. I love that the romance was a slow burn. By the time anything happened, the reader felt that it was a long time coming. Also, I liked that this was a closed door romance.
I also liked the cast of characters surrounding the main characters. After I finished the book, I looked to see if any of the other characters had novels.
I do think that the writing around the first kiss scene fell short. It was too unexpected and quick. I also did not care for Fliss' big family secret. I really dislike using mothers hiding the identity of children's fathers as a plot device,
Even with those shortcomings, this book was great. I will be reading more from this author.
Casey Withoos is a great narrator
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 20, 2022
Back in May I read 'The Red Dirt Road' and finished it over the course of a week. I really enjoyed both this book and the overall series. I find these books really easy and comforting to read as they are set in rural areas that give me all of the good country feels with a great sense of community and some really lovable characters. All I can say is give this series a go if you're a lover of rural fiction, you won't be disappointed!
January 18, 2022
It's a very warm welcome back to the town of windmills in the second book in the Woodlea series! I absolutely adore Alissa's characterisation and imagination. The whole town comes to life!
This time, it's Dr Fliss Knight's story. Fliss is one of the many characters I got to know previously. Practical, sensible and very kind, Dr Fliss is struggling after losing a patient whilst practising in Sydney. Desperate for solitude, she returns home to Woodlea to be near her sister Cressy.
Cowboy Hewitt Sinclair is also in need for some healing after losing his twin brother. A motorbike accident brings him to Woodlea, on insistence of Cressy and her fiancee Denham. As Fliss needs help to restore her property, Hewitt is a welcome but very distracting guest!
Despite not wanting to get involved in another relationship that will just fail, Fliss becomes very attracted to the lone cowboy. Needless to say, the feelings are replicated, but Hewitt hasn't got time for a relationship. Be warned. You may be enjoying all the flirting and tender moments between Fliss and Hewitt, but you'll also be screaming in frustration at how well suited they are!
Throw in a family secret, a couple of cute dogs and their puppies, and a few adorable kids, and you have a very sweet and heartwarming story.
I always love Alissa's works, and this is no exception. I loved spending time in Woodlea once more, and I look forward to my next visit!
🌟🌟🌟🌟✨/5
This time, it's Dr Fliss Knight's story. Fliss is one of the many characters I got to know previously. Practical, sensible and very kind, Dr Fliss is struggling after losing a patient whilst practising in Sydney. Desperate for solitude, she returns home to Woodlea to be near her sister Cressy.
Cowboy Hewitt Sinclair is also in need for some healing after losing his twin brother. A motorbike accident brings him to Woodlea, on insistence of Cressy and her fiancee Denham. As Fliss needs help to restore her property, Hewitt is a welcome but very distracting guest!
Despite not wanting to get involved in another relationship that will just fail, Fliss becomes very attracted to the lone cowboy. Needless to say, the feelings are replicated, but Hewitt hasn't got time for a relationship. Be warned. You may be enjoying all the flirting and tender moments between Fliss and Hewitt, but you'll also be screaming in frustration at how well suited they are!
Throw in a family secret, a couple of cute dogs and their puppies, and a few adorable kids, and you have a very sweet and heartwarming story.
I always love Alissa's works, and this is no exception. I loved spending time in Woodlea once more, and I look forward to my next visit!
🌟🌟🌟🌟✨/5
May 16, 2018
Closed door rural romance.
The heroine, Fliss, is a doctor hiding in the country after one of her patients died. This causes her a lot of anxiety, but it's not that believable. Her anxiety is superficial, and doesn't come through in the usual details that I feel as a social anxious person. There is no second guessing, just the occasional reference to her feeling anxious. It's telling, not showing, of anxiety, imo.
The hero, Hewitt, is amazingly mobile for someone with a broken shoulder, managing to continue farming, do maintenance, and ride his horse.
Most of this book, they stare at each other, and the plot is driven by external plots. They finally kiss at about the 3/4 mark, and once they get over that hurdle, then it's a rather sweet romance with all the external plots tied up neatly (too neatly?). In summary, lots of staring and internalised angst about whether the other person feels the same way, which makes it a little repetitive. Or maybe I'm just used to reading books that clip along faster, and it's not really my style of book. The rural details and the writing are excellent.
The heroine, Fliss, is a doctor hiding in the country after one of her patients died. This causes her a lot of anxiety, but it's not that believable. Her anxiety is superficial, and doesn't come through in the usual details that I feel as a social anxious person. There is no second guessing, just the occasional reference to her feeling anxious. It's telling, not showing, of anxiety, imo.
The hero, Hewitt, is amazingly mobile for someone with a broken shoulder, managing to continue farming, do maintenance, and ride his horse.
Most of this book, they stare at each other, and the plot is driven by external plots. They finally kiss at about the 3/4 mark, and once they get over that hurdle, then it's a rather sweet romance with all the external plots tied up neatly (too neatly?). In summary, lots of staring and internalised angst about whether the other person feels the same way, which makes it a little repetitive. Or maybe I'm just used to reading books that clip along faster, and it's not really my style of book. The rural details and the writing are excellent.
August 15, 2025
This book was perfect because it had not one, not two, but EIGHT border collies! Mama, Daddy, and six puppies!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Apart from the dogs, this was a lovely story about traumatised doctor Fliss who returns to her small home town and falls for the man she lets live on her property. Hewitt is also traumatised after watching his twin brother die in a bull riding accident. And, of course, he foolishly blames himself. But soon they're both on their road to self-discovery as Fliss realises her father isn't her father and seeks out the man who actually is - and that turns out to be quite the surprise! Meanwhile, Hewitt grieves the loss of his brother until he realises he's not to blame while falling in love with Fliss. Mix in the other characters we love from Woodlea - Cressey, Denham, Tanner, and Ella - this is a wonderful book.
Apart from the dogs, this was a lovely story about traumatised doctor Fliss who returns to her small home town and falls for the man she lets live on her property. Hewitt is also traumatised after watching his twin brother die in a bull riding accident. And, of course, he foolishly blames himself. But soon they're both on their road to self-discovery as Fliss realises her father isn't her father and seeks out the man who actually is - and that turns out to be quite the surprise! Meanwhile, Hewitt grieves the loss of his brother until he realises he's not to blame while falling in love with Fliss. Mix in the other characters we love from Woodlea - Cressey, Denham, Tanner, and Ella - this is a wonderful book.
August 7, 2021
Alissa Callen's, 'The Red Dirt Road', is an emotional story showcasing true humanity in its purest form. Here we meet Fliss and Hewitt, both who have suffered tragic loss, and cannot see a way forward to return to their normal lives. Fliss feels incapable of being a doctor while Hewitt feels responsible for his brother's death. Their trust in themselves have been broken, what would it take for both of them to accept and forgive?
Deep feelings of loss and suffering and the 'I-should-have-done-more' lie heavily on the shoulders of both Fliss and Hewitt, but the strength of their characters show their determination to get up again.
'The Red Dirt Road' is a story of believing in yourself and never giving up hope...
Deep feelings of loss and suffering and the 'I-should-have-done-more' lie heavily on the shoulders of both Fliss and Hewitt, but the strength of their characters show their determination to get up again.
'The Red Dirt Road' is a story of believing in yourself and never giving up hope...
August 14, 2020
The author takes us on the healing journeys of Dr Felicity (Fliss) Knight and Hewitt Sinclair. Fliss lost a patient in a city hospital and it affects her deeply. Hewitt's brother leaves behind a widow and two small children when he is killed in a rodeo accident Hewitt blames on himself.
Hewitt and Fliss both head to the country to heal themselves and face life again.
The story evolves to show the power of true friendship and respect.
The book was a very enjoyable read as I wondered if it was possible for past hurts to be confronted.
Hewitt and Fliss both head to the country to heal themselves and face life again.
The story evolves to show the power of true friendship and respect.
The book was a very enjoyable read as I wondered if it was possible for past hurts to be confronted.
November 27, 2020
I have visited Australia and could really picture the scenery, and the atmosphere of Woodlea, the small-town setting of this story. The romantic plot and storyline were predictable, but the enjoyment was in the reading and following the lives of the main characters Dr. Fliss and Hewitt, and their families to see how the family mystery would work out and how these two characters would solve their inner turmoil to clear the way for their relationship. A good lighthearted read especially for those who enjoy the Australian bush and romance combined.
February 10, 2021
Okay read, didn’t think this one was as good as the others in this series that I had already read (out of order).
Was about 75% read before the two main characters finally got together.
Lots of internal thinking by both of them.
Fliss’s father storyline was odd.. I won’t give it away - but seemed quite convenient and far fetched to me. I also found the two sheep dogs and puppies strange that the owners went to the trouble of finding them, travelling to pick them up only to see if Fliss wanted to keep them.
Still loving this series though.
Was about 75% read before the two main characters finally got together.
Lots of internal thinking by both of them.
Fliss’s father storyline was odd.. I won’t give it away - but seemed quite convenient and far fetched to me. I also found the two sheep dogs and puppies strange that the owners went to the trouble of finding them, travelling to pick them up only to see if Fliss wanted to keep them.
Still loving this series though.
August 13, 2025
Fliss and Hewitt's story. She has lost her nerve over being a doctor because a patient died. He has lost his nerve because he lost his brother and feels he should and could have saved him as a pick up rider. He has an injured shoulder and while it heals helps out Fliss on the property she has bought and fled to. Hewitt has two adorable twins - niece and nephew. As well there might be some adorable puppies.
A very enjoyable listen on audio with an Australian rural setting. Needless to say they heal and Fliss and Hewitt make a good team.
A very enjoyable listen on audio with an Australian rural setting. Needless to say they heal and Fliss and Hewitt make a good team.
January 22, 2018
I enjoyed this but felt it was a bit slow at the start and for me it didn't really hook me in until about half way. I liked the setting of the country property in rural NSW and have travelled out that way many times and it felt just as I had seen in the area. I liked the two main characters who were both coming to terms with different losses and were both trying to just get through life and heal. The story wrapped up just nicely. I will definitely look for more books by this author.
February 6, 2018
The Red Dirt Road by Alissa Callen is a story that has characters that shine. The characters of Fliss and Hewitt were no hardship to read about. Their challenges were attention worthy and their chemistry obvious. An attention grabbing story from the author.
Review copy received from Harlequin MIRA via Netgalley
Review copy received from Harlequin MIRA via Netgalley
March 4, 2018
Dr Fliss Knight returns to her hometown of Woodlea after working in the city Sydney as a doctor in the emergency department treating a young pregnant woman who dies but her baby survives. She loses her confidence to work as a doctor so returns to the place she grew up. She buys Bundara which becomes a place for her to heal as she tries to deal with her fears . Add more.
April 23, 2018
Beautiful!! I so enjoyed the journey back to Woodlea and this book had me up after midnight finishing it. (Doesn’t happen very often!) AC shall we read Ella’s story next???? I read the Christmas story linking these characters too ‘Under Christmas Stars’ so was pleased to read a mention about school teacher Freya George in here too. Loved this a lot AC! Big thanks x
July 26, 2018
Alissa Callen’s The Red Dirt Road captivated me from the very beginning.
Dr Fliss Knight moves to her hometown after one of her patients dies. The hero, arrives in town to recover from an accident. Both have their secrets, both have something they are trying to overcome, to heal from. Makes for an interesting story.
Enjoyed it immensely.
Dr Fliss Knight moves to her hometown after one of her patients dies. The hero, arrives in town to recover from an accident. Both have their secrets, both have something they are trying to overcome, to heal from. Makes for an interesting story.
Enjoyed it immensely.
April 6, 2021
I've read better, I've read worse. The story develops quite nicely, but the two main characters are a bit much to believe. All this self-restraint, all the pain, all this understanding and looking out for each other. The heroism........
Totally and utterly unrealistic. But then it is nice to escape reality once in a while
Totally and utterly unrealistic. But then it is nice to escape reality once in a while
October 26, 2018
Floss and Hewitt, a loss brings them both to the solitude of Woodlea. The healing of working together for the pups, or raising money with charity a ball.A love that flourished, but there is secrets, a nice enjoyable story.
February 3, 2019
I just finished this book after reading The long paddock (number 1 in the series). I loved this book and was so glad to see Fliss get her story.
Am so thankful I came across this new author to me, has been a delight to read her books!
Am so thankful I came across this new author to me, has been a delight to read her books!
August 7, 2023
I loved visiting Woodlea township again and the people who live there. The story of Fliss and Hewitt was heartfelt, they way the town rallied together in times of nature’s tempest and the mystery of Fliss’s DNA. Until next time. Thank you Alissa Callen 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
June 21, 2024
An enjoyable read continuing the Woodlea series. This time it is Fliss & Hewitt’s story. They both have issues rising from past experiences which need to be worked through prior to them being able to follow their hearts.
I score this 4.25 🌟
I score this 4.25 🌟
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