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Secrets of Riverside
Can love conquer all? A moving story of overcoming the past and second chances from bestselling Australian romance author Mandy Magro. Can their love heal the shadows of the past?
After losing her family in a tragic fire when she was a child, Amelia Price has battled to put the shattered pieces of her life back together. Even so, she's never felt like she belongs anywhere, and she longs for stability and love. When a mysterious letter turns up at her apartment with hints that she'll uncover the truth behind what happened all those years ago if she goes to the sleepy, picturesque town of Riverside, she sets off on a journey to tropical Far North Queensland.
Jarrah King owns and runs the Riverside Roadhouse. He loves the simpleness of country living, and the fact it gives him complete anonymity. Over the years he's made a life for himself under a new name, however his past has never stopped haunting him.
When a sassy blonde takes up the new cook position, he can't help but be drawn to her vivacious personality. But he can tell there's also pain hiding underneath her bubbly facade and he longs to erase those shadows. However, lowering his defences to let her in may risk his new identity, as well as everything he holds dear.
Can Amelia show him that love is worth the risk? Or will the secrets of their entwined past tear them apart forever?
After losing her family in a tragic fire when she was a child, Amelia Price has battled to put the shattered pieces of her life back together. Even so, she's never felt like she belongs anywhere, and she longs for stability and love. When a mysterious letter turns up at her apartment with hints that she'll uncover the truth behind what happened all those years ago if she goes to the sleepy, picturesque town of Riverside, she sets off on a journey to tropical Far North Queensland.
Jarrah King owns and runs the Riverside Roadhouse. He loves the simpleness of country living, and the fact it gives him complete anonymity. Over the years he's made a life for himself under a new name, however his past has never stopped haunting him.
When a sassy blonde takes up the new cook position, he can't help but be drawn to her vivacious personality. But he can tell there's also pain hiding underneath her bubbly facade and he longs to erase those shadows. However, lowering his defences to let her in may risk his new identity, as well as everything he holds dear.
Can Amelia show him that love is worth the risk? Or will the secrets of their entwined past tear them apart forever?
- GenresRomance
Kindle Edition
Published May 1, 2024
16 people are currently reading
110 people want to read
About the author
Mandy Magro
39 books331 followersMandy Magro lives in Cairns, Far North Queensland, with her daughter, Chloe Rose. With pristine aqua-blue coastline in one direction, and sweeping rural landscapes in the other, she describes her home as heaven on earth. A passionate woman, and a romantic at heart, she loves writing about soul-deep love, the Australian rural way of life, and all the wonderful characters that live there.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews
May 12, 2024
EXCERPT: Riverside Homestead shone like a beacon amid the lush thick tropical landscape, and just beyond that the Riverside Roadhouse invited passers-by into its welcoming hospitality. Bright pops of colorful flowers adorned the perimeter, the pink hibiscus, orange birds of paradise, yellow frangipani, red gingers and lobster claw heliconias he and Tommy had planted a few years ago in full bloom. Alongside the Queenslander-style building - sitting on one-metre-high stilts with cool, wide, wrap-around verandahs to while away the time with a beer or coffee in-hand - the well-known truck stop's car park was jam packed with campervans, semitrailers and road trains, some loaded with cattle.
ABOUT 'SECRETS OF RIVERSIDE': After losing her family in a tragic fire when she was a child, Amelia Price has battled to put the shattered pieces of her life back together. Even so, she's never felt like she belongs anywhere, and she longs for stability and love. When a mysterious letter turns up at her apartment with hints that she'll uncover the truth behind what happened all those years ago if she goes to the sleepy, picturesque town of Riverside, she sets off on a journey to tropical Far North Queensland.
Jarrah King owns and runs the Riverside Roadhouse. He loves the simpleness of country living, and the fact it gives him complete anonymity. Over the years he's made a life for himself under a new name, however his past has never stopped haunting him.
When a sassy blonde takes up the new cook position, he can't help but be drawn to her vivacious personality. But he can tell there's also pain hiding underneath her bubbly facade and he longs to erase those shadows. However, lowering his defences to let her in may risk his new identity, as well as everything he holds dear.
Can Amelia show him that love is worth the risk? Or will the secrets of their entwined past tear them apart forever?
MY THOUGHTS: Secrets of Riverside didn't work as well for me as Gum Tree Gully, the first book I read by this author, did. I really disliked the first few chapters which gave the backgrounds of both main characters, Jarrah King, owner of Riverside, and Amelia (Millie) Price. I thought these would have been better woven into the fabric of the story as it progressed. It was an information overload.
The writing just didn't seem to flow easily. There was frequent use of cliches, the use of terms I haven't heard in years such as scalliwag and that I wouldn't expect to hear from the lips of people in Jarrah's and Millie's age groups. There was also some strange use of language/words in places e.g. 'her headlights ignited the road sign' . . . this is by no means an isolated example.
I liked both Millie's and Jarrah's characters - except for Millie's reliance on alcohol as an escape anytime anything went wrong - but Tommy fell well and truly short in the believability department. To start: who is going to make an eighteen-year-old manager of a roadhouse? He just wouldn't have the skills or maturity to handle such a position.
Which brings me to another point: the roadhouse. I have worked in a few over the years. I have never worked in one that opens at 7am and closes at 2pm, plus closes one day a week. That's a cafe. Roadhouses are traditionally open seven days a week - the trucks don't stop! - and long hours if not all 24.
Ultimately I was disappointed in this read. It fell short of satisfactory in so many areas. The author obviously hasn't done her research. The two redeeming factors for me were the Queensland setting and the romance between Jarrah and Millie. That was interesting and well written.
⭐⭐.5
#SecretsofRiverside #NetGalley
THE AUTHOR: Mandy Magro lives in Cairns, Far North Queensland, with her daughter, Chloe Rose. With pristine aqua-blue coastline in one direction, and sweeping rural landscapes in the other, she describes her home as heaven on earth. A passionate woman, and a romantic at heart, she loves writing about soul-deep love, the Australian rural way of life, and all the wonderful characters that live there.
DISCLOSURE: Thank you to Harlequin Australia, HQ & MIRA, via NetGalley for providing a digital ARC of Secrets of Riverside by Mandy Magro for review. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own personal opinions.
https://sandysbookaday.wordpress.com/...
ABOUT 'SECRETS OF RIVERSIDE': After losing her family in a tragic fire when she was a child, Amelia Price has battled to put the shattered pieces of her life back together. Even so, she's never felt like she belongs anywhere, and she longs for stability and love. When a mysterious letter turns up at her apartment with hints that she'll uncover the truth behind what happened all those years ago if she goes to the sleepy, picturesque town of Riverside, she sets off on a journey to tropical Far North Queensland.
Jarrah King owns and runs the Riverside Roadhouse. He loves the simpleness of country living, and the fact it gives him complete anonymity. Over the years he's made a life for himself under a new name, however his past has never stopped haunting him.
When a sassy blonde takes up the new cook position, he can't help but be drawn to her vivacious personality. But he can tell there's also pain hiding underneath her bubbly facade and he longs to erase those shadows. However, lowering his defences to let her in may risk his new identity, as well as everything he holds dear.
Can Amelia show him that love is worth the risk? Or will the secrets of their entwined past tear them apart forever?
MY THOUGHTS: Secrets of Riverside didn't work as well for me as Gum Tree Gully, the first book I read by this author, did. I really disliked the first few chapters which gave the backgrounds of both main characters, Jarrah King, owner of Riverside, and Amelia (Millie) Price. I thought these would have been better woven into the fabric of the story as it progressed. It was an information overload.
The writing just didn't seem to flow easily. There was frequent use of cliches, the use of terms I haven't heard in years such as scalliwag and that I wouldn't expect to hear from the lips of people in Jarrah's and Millie's age groups. There was also some strange use of language/words in places e.g. 'her headlights ignited the road sign' . . . this is by no means an isolated example.
I liked both Millie's and Jarrah's characters - except for Millie's reliance on alcohol as an escape anytime anything went wrong - but Tommy fell well and truly short in the believability department. To start: who is going to make an eighteen-year-old manager of a roadhouse? He just wouldn't have the skills or maturity to handle such a position.
Which brings me to another point: the roadhouse. I have worked in a few over the years. I have never worked in one that opens at 7am and closes at 2pm, plus closes one day a week. That's a cafe. Roadhouses are traditionally open seven days a week - the trucks don't stop! - and long hours if not all 24.
Ultimately I was disappointed in this read. It fell short of satisfactory in so many areas. The author obviously hasn't done her research. The two redeeming factors for me were the Queensland setting and the romance between Jarrah and Millie. That was interesting and well written.
⭐⭐.5
#SecretsofRiverside #NetGalley
THE AUTHOR: Mandy Magro lives in Cairns, Far North Queensland, with her daughter, Chloe Rose. With pristine aqua-blue coastline in one direction, and sweeping rural landscapes in the other, she describes her home as heaven on earth. A passionate woman, and a romantic at heart, she loves writing about soul-deep love, the Australian rural way of life, and all the wonderful characters that live there.
DISCLOSURE: Thank you to Harlequin Australia, HQ & MIRA, via NetGalley for providing a digital ARC of Secrets of Riverside by Mandy Magro for review. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own personal opinions.
https://sandysbookaday.wordpress.com/...
March 30, 2024
Amelia Price lost her family in a house fire fifteen years ago, the one person whose always been there for her is her best friend Ebony and she’s still provides support. Amelia feels lost, like she doesn't belong and she’s made bad choices in her relationships with men. A mysterious letter arrives at Ebony’s apartment in Parramatta, Sydney and it informs Amelia she needs to travel to Riverside, a small town in far North Queensland and here she will uncover how the fire started?
Jarrah King owns and manages the Riverside Roadhouse and it’s a stopover for truck drivers and travelers. He was very lucky to inherit it from his grandfather and it provided a much needed new start for him and his nephew Tommy, and no one knows about his past. When Millie arrives at the roadhouse, he needs a cook, and he hires her on the spot. Millie is funny and kind and an amazing cook and his customers are very happy with the food and so is Jarrah.
Jarrah and Millie both enjoy the same things, they love animals, horse riding, country music, dancing, but are wary about exposing too much about their personal lives and history. I enjoy reading stories about people turning their lives around and Jarrah does. Millie's a troubled soul, plagued by nightmares from the house fire, she needs a strong man by her side, one she can trust and is Jarrah the person to do this?
I received a digital copy of Secrets of Riverside by Mandy Magro and Harlequin Australia in exchange for an honest review. Ms. Magro explains why she writes books in her notes at the end, her aim is to lift people’s spirits while reading her novels and they get to visit new places, to escape life and its pressures, make you cry, laugh out loud and still believe in love and romance.
Ms. Magro has done this again with her latest book, I enjoyed reading about what’s it’s like in the stunning far North of Queensland with her vivid descriptions, near Cairns, the rainforest and the yummy food Amelia cooked. I liked most of the characters and my favourites were Jarrah, Amelia, Ebony and Scruff the dog and the narrative is about friendship, second chances, and finding peace and love. Five stars from me, I highly recommend Secrets of Riverside and it’s released on the 1st of May 2024.
Jarrah King owns and manages the Riverside Roadhouse and it’s a stopover for truck drivers and travelers. He was very lucky to inherit it from his grandfather and it provided a much needed new start for him and his nephew Tommy, and no one knows about his past. When Millie arrives at the roadhouse, he needs a cook, and he hires her on the spot. Millie is funny and kind and an amazing cook and his customers are very happy with the food and so is Jarrah.
Jarrah and Millie both enjoy the same things, they love animals, horse riding, country music, dancing, but are wary about exposing too much about their personal lives and history. I enjoy reading stories about people turning their lives around and Jarrah does. Millie's a troubled soul, plagued by nightmares from the house fire, she needs a strong man by her side, one she can trust and is Jarrah the person to do this?
I received a digital copy of Secrets of Riverside by Mandy Magro and Harlequin Australia in exchange for an honest review. Ms. Magro explains why she writes books in her notes at the end, her aim is to lift people’s spirits while reading her novels and they get to visit new places, to escape life and its pressures, make you cry, laugh out loud and still believe in love and romance.
Ms. Magro has done this again with her latest book, I enjoyed reading about what’s it’s like in the stunning far North of Queensland with her vivid descriptions, near Cairns, the rainforest and the yummy food Amelia cooked. I liked most of the characters and my favourites were Jarrah, Amelia, Ebony and Scruff the dog and the narrative is about friendship, second chances, and finding peace and love. Five stars from me, I highly recommend Secrets of Riverside and it’s released on the 1st of May 2024.
May 17, 2024
Living in Sydney, sharing with her best friend Ebony, Millie still couldn't overcome the grief she still felt at losing her parents and little brother in a house fire when she was young. Someone saved her, but she didn't know who it was. Her life felt in limbo, especially after the nasty breakup from her previous partner. When an anonymous letter arrived, telling her to go to a place called Riverside in Far North Queensland, where she was promised answers, she decided to take the bull by the horns and headed up there. Two solid days of driving and the beautiful countryside she arrived in had her in awe.
Jarrah King was the owner of Riverside Acres and the roadhouse plus motel rooms were a nice money maker. He needed a new cook as he'd had to let the last one go, and when a young woman named Millie turned up, and she could cook, he was happy to hire her. But there were rumbles of trouble around the property, and Jarrah's nephew was mostly the cause of it. What was his problem? Would Millie get her answers or would she leave once more, and head home to Sydney?
Secrets of Riverside is another standalone romance by Aussie author Mandy Magro and unfortunately it was too sickly sweet for me, and fairly predictable as well. The country around Riverside sounds delightful, with magnificent sunrises and sunsets; horses; a faithful dog and a cool swimming hole. That's part of Australia I've never been to, and would love to see it.
With thanks to HQ Fiction for my ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
Jarrah King was the owner of Riverside Acres and the roadhouse plus motel rooms were a nice money maker. He needed a new cook as he'd had to let the last one go, and when a young woman named Millie turned up, and she could cook, he was happy to hire her. But there were rumbles of trouble around the property, and Jarrah's nephew was mostly the cause of it. What was his problem? Would Millie get her answers or would she leave once more, and head home to Sydney?
Secrets of Riverside is another standalone romance by Aussie author Mandy Magro and unfortunately it was too sickly sweet for me, and fairly predictable as well. The country around Riverside sounds delightful, with magnificent sunrises and sunsets; horses; a faithful dog and a cool swimming hole. That's part of Australia I've never been to, and would love to see it.
With thanks to HQ Fiction for my ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
June 11, 2024
I have only read one other book by this author, and I only just realised it was a one star read. This one I enjoyed more. I feel I am not the right group for these stories, as was my experience with Rosalee Station, the voice was too old for the age of the characters. The phrases used, the forced dialogue between two best friends, young women who have been through a lot used voices formed by an older author, being forced into younger characters. I always notice this and it’s one of my reading quirks. The way they spoke during nightmares in the middle of the night and phone calls were not age appropriate, they felt forced.
Admittedly, these types of contemporary novels are meant to be light reads, so the point probably is not for me to notice things like a bustling roadhouse being run by a very busy farmer, managed by an 18-year-old with a huge chip on his shoulder, with a new experienced cook coming in and whipping up a storm in a magical way.
I am meant to appreciate a love story which starts out in a sinister with a mob family rehashing an old crime. Young Amelia’s curiosity is piqued after she receives a letter alluding to her past, summonsing her to north Queensland. She does not appear to be scared at all and takes off to find out about her past. Stumbling across the owner of the Roadhouse after her car break down, after leaving Parramatta of all places, a suburb of western Sydney, to tropical Queensland.
It was too far fetched for me, but those who don’t question things will enjoy it more.
I listened to this via the BorrowBox app and my public library. I was just underwhelmed.
Admittedly, these types of contemporary novels are meant to be light reads, so the point probably is not for me to notice things like a bustling roadhouse being run by a very busy farmer, managed by an 18-year-old with a huge chip on his shoulder, with a new experienced cook coming in and whipping up a storm in a magical way.
I am meant to appreciate a love story which starts out in a sinister with a mob family rehashing an old crime. Young Amelia’s curiosity is piqued after she receives a letter alluding to her past, summonsing her to north Queensland. She does not appear to be scared at all and takes off to find out about her past. Stumbling across the owner of the Roadhouse after her car break down, after leaving Parramatta of all places, a suburb of western Sydney, to tropical Queensland.
It was too far fetched for me, but those who don’t question things will enjoy it more.
I listened to this via the BorrowBox app and my public library. I was just underwhelmed.
May 28, 2024
This is another fabulous story from Mandy Magro, she has taken us on a moving and emotional journey filled with mystery and intrigue in such a beautiful setting, far north Queensland with rain forests and fabulous characters, Millie and Jarrah have a link from the past will they join that link an find happiness and love?
Amelia “Millie” Price lost her family in a terrible tragedy when she was fifteen, life has had its ups and downs throughout the next fifteen years, she is now staying with her best friend and doing her best to get a job when a mysterious letter arrives with some hints that she may learn more about the truth of what happened all those years ago if she travels to a property in Far North Queensland called Riverside Acres.
Jarrah King moved to Riverside Acres as soon as he could, determined to make a new start and put his past behind him, he has a good business with a roadhouse, a small motel and his horses and a few cattle, life is good with his nephew, Tommy and himself until a young woman arrives just as he needs a new cook but there is something about Millie that draws him to her, not just her sassy personality it is a sadness about her, will he understand what it is about her that draws him in so much?
Very quickly Millie and Jarrah realise that there is a pull between them, a feeling that they have met before that cannot be ignored but both have secrets that they have kept for many years and Millie is determined to find out who and why that letter was sent she wants answers has Jarrah got them? Jarrah knows the closer he gets to Millie the more chance there is of his secrets being uncovered but will that be for the best?
This is a beautiful story and one that had me turning the pages, will Millie and Jarrah be able to overcome their pasts and look to the future or will it and other people destroy what they could have? I do highly recommend this one to any romance reader who loves a side of mystery, fabulous characters and a fabulous setting.
My thanks to Harlequin for my copy to read and review.
Amelia “Millie” Price lost her family in a terrible tragedy when she was fifteen, life has had its ups and downs throughout the next fifteen years, she is now staying with her best friend and doing her best to get a job when a mysterious letter arrives with some hints that she may learn more about the truth of what happened all those years ago if she travels to a property in Far North Queensland called Riverside Acres.
Jarrah King moved to Riverside Acres as soon as he could, determined to make a new start and put his past behind him, he has a good business with a roadhouse, a small motel and his horses and a few cattle, life is good with his nephew, Tommy and himself until a young woman arrives just as he needs a new cook but there is something about Millie that draws him to her, not just her sassy personality it is a sadness about her, will he understand what it is about her that draws him in so much?
Very quickly Millie and Jarrah realise that there is a pull between them, a feeling that they have met before that cannot be ignored but both have secrets that they have kept for many years and Millie is determined to find out who and why that letter was sent she wants answers has Jarrah got them? Jarrah knows the closer he gets to Millie the more chance there is of his secrets being uncovered but will that be for the best?
This is a beautiful story and one that had me turning the pages, will Millie and Jarrah be able to overcome their pasts and look to the future or will it and other people destroy what they could have? I do highly recommend this one to any romance reader who loves a side of mystery, fabulous characters and a fabulous setting.
My thanks to Harlequin for my copy to read and review.
April 7, 2024
Amelia & Jarrah both had unpleasant childhoods but can they help each other heal when they both keep their past a secret.
This is a very emotional story but a great read.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an advance copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
This is a very emotional story but a great read.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an advance copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
May 21, 2024
*https://www.instagram.com/mrsb_book_r...
🍂Australia’s champion of the rural romance brand Mandy Magro ushers in a brand new tale of loss, family, identity, healing, peace, secrets, hard truths and love. Featuring a stunning tribute to the tropical climate and surrounds of North Queensland, Secrets of Riverside is another generous country tale of romance conquering the challenges of love and life.
🍂Secrets of Riverside introduces Amelia and Jarrah, two main characters who both have a background of tragedy, personal battles, and instability in their lives.
🍂Mandy Magro has occupied my reading schedule for many years now and it is always such a nice feeling to return to her writing. Secrets of Riverside is a book that settled my soul after quite a long and challenging working week. Thanks to Magro’s writing, I was whisked away from the hustle and bustle of suburban life filled with city commutes to the lush surrounds of tropical far north Queensland. I lapped up the world building in this novel, it was generous and vibrant. Magro’s special attention to both her landscape recreation and fauna was a joy to experience as I lifted page after page of this story.
🍂Character journey wise, I appreciated the complications and issues that arose between each main protagonist in this novel. The female main character has quite a sad past that ensures that the audience attaches plenty of empathy to her experiences. The lead male figure also has a difficult background, and the mystery that runs along his search of anonymity drives the story forward. There are a number of side characters who prop up the story well, I particularly liked the canine sidekick featured in the tale. Romance is definitely in the air despite the personal problems the cast must overcome. Magro knows this area like the back of her hand, and it shines through the story.
🍂Secrets of Riverside is a tale that will offer you a number of hours of reading fulfillment.
🌟🌟🌟🌟4 stars
🙏Thank you to the team at @harlequinaus for the gifted copy!
🍂Australia’s champion of the rural romance brand Mandy Magro ushers in a brand new tale of loss, family, identity, healing, peace, secrets, hard truths and love. Featuring a stunning tribute to the tropical climate and surrounds of North Queensland, Secrets of Riverside is another generous country tale of romance conquering the challenges of love and life.
🍂Secrets of Riverside introduces Amelia and Jarrah, two main characters who both have a background of tragedy, personal battles, and instability in their lives.
🍂Mandy Magro has occupied my reading schedule for many years now and it is always such a nice feeling to return to her writing. Secrets of Riverside is a book that settled my soul after quite a long and challenging working week. Thanks to Magro’s writing, I was whisked away from the hustle and bustle of suburban life filled with city commutes to the lush surrounds of tropical far north Queensland. I lapped up the world building in this novel, it was generous and vibrant. Magro’s special attention to both her landscape recreation and fauna was a joy to experience as I lifted page after page of this story.
🍂Character journey wise, I appreciated the complications and issues that arose between each main protagonist in this novel. The female main character has quite a sad past that ensures that the audience attaches plenty of empathy to her experiences. The lead male figure also has a difficult background, and the mystery that runs along his search of anonymity drives the story forward. There are a number of side characters who prop up the story well, I particularly liked the canine sidekick featured in the tale. Romance is definitely in the air despite the personal problems the cast must overcome. Magro knows this area like the back of her hand, and it shines through the story.
🍂Secrets of Riverside is a tale that will offer you a number of hours of reading fulfillment.
🌟🌟🌟🌟4 stars
🙏Thank you to the team at @harlequinaus for the gifted copy!
April 16, 2024
Thank you Harlequin for sending us a copy to read and review.
The Queen of rural romance gives readers a tender and emotional Aussie country love story with a touch of mystery and intrigue.
Ideal for fans of intimate relationships, solid reading and affairs of the heart.
Amelia Price has a tragic past and has escaped her hometown of Riverside.
Losing her family in a terrible fire she has tried to heal in time.
A letter arrives claiming if she returns she will uncover the truth.
Jarrah King runs the local roadhouse and has run from his past but it seems to be continuously haunting him.
When Amelia returns, the sparks ignite between the two, both not knowing that they are connected by their history.
Can they ever be happy……
When you hear the brand term of ruro you immediately think Mandy Magro, one of our great rural storytellers.
Leading the genre, Mandy writes with heart, soul and spirit and her books are truely ones that stand out and thrive in the market.
Her books always leave you feeling warm and fuzzy on the inside and make your heart flutter.
The characters and plot do their job well and perform their roles to completeness.
A very enjoyable and engaging read.
The Queen of rural romance gives readers a tender and emotional Aussie country love story with a touch of mystery and intrigue.
Ideal for fans of intimate relationships, solid reading and affairs of the heart.
Amelia Price has a tragic past and has escaped her hometown of Riverside.
Losing her family in a terrible fire she has tried to heal in time.
A letter arrives claiming if she returns she will uncover the truth.
Jarrah King runs the local roadhouse and has run from his past but it seems to be continuously haunting him.
When Amelia returns, the sparks ignite between the two, both not knowing that they are connected by their history.
Can they ever be happy……
When you hear the brand term of ruro you immediately think Mandy Magro, one of our great rural storytellers.
Leading the genre, Mandy writes with heart, soul and spirit and her books are truely ones that stand out and thrive in the market.
Her books always leave you feeling warm and fuzzy on the inside and make your heart flutter.
The characters and plot do their job well and perform their roles to completeness.
A very enjoyable and engaging read.
March 23, 2024
Amelia (Millie) had a tragedy occur when a child. But that tragedy has come back to chase her again.
Millie heads north and finds herself landing a job at Riverside. She is falling in love with the countryside and her job. But her past seems to cause her worry no matter what she does.
Jarrah offers Millie a job. Not knowing anything about her, but he does enjoy her cooking and her beauty, inside and out.
The past has caught them both by surprise and this causes Millie to run. Can she trust herself and her feelings again.
A fabulous story that touches your heart with the emotions portrayed by the characters. Another great read.
Thanks to #netgalley, the publishers and the author for the book.
Millie heads north and finds herself landing a job at Riverside. She is falling in love with the countryside and her job. But her past seems to cause her worry no matter what she does.
Jarrah offers Millie a job. Not knowing anything about her, but he does enjoy her cooking and her beauty, inside and out.
The past has caught them both by surprise and this causes Millie to run. Can she trust herself and her feelings again.
A fabulous story that touches your heart with the emotions portrayed by the characters. Another great read.
Thanks to #netgalley, the publishers and the author for the book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 26, 2024
Secrets of Riverside is the second book I have read of Mandy Magro’s and enjoyed. This was an intriguing story of second chances (though sad in parts) with solid characters that kept me turning the pages fairly rapidly. Amelia Price went through a horrific event when she was a child. A fire that killed all her family except she was saved by an unnamed rescuer. This trauma continues to haunt her with nightmares into her adulthood and she battles to keep her life together, especially after a rocky relationship and another loss. She has a wonderful friend, Ebony, who has been like a sister to her helping her through the trauma and all. Then one day a mysterious letter turns up at her Sydney apartment that shocks her with its message. Its sender wants her to go to Riverside in Far North Queensland to uncover the truth of the reasons behind the fire and loss of her family. Since she is seeking answers—she hopes this journey will provide closure and decides to go against the pleas of her best friend. But she reassures Ebony she will be fine, she can handle the trip herself and her friend should continue with her planned holiday.
Once Amelia (or Millie as she is called by her friends) is almost at her destination, she has vehicle problems and is rescued by Jarrah King. This meeting leads to a job as a cook at his Riverside Roadhouse (a business and home left to him by his grandfather) where she manages to impress everyone with her fine cooking skills; except Jarrah’s nephew who takes an instant dislike to her.
Jarrah and Millie get to know each other over time and there is a strong familiarity and attraction. They fight the feelings that are developing between them but we know this won’t last forever. With roadblocks like limited trust and hiding major information about their past lives from each other, building a sound relationship will be impossible. At least not until the walls of self-protection come down. They fear that honest revelations about who they are and their past lives will change perceptions and they could lose control of their own narrative. Can they overcome these hurdles, trust each other and get closer?
Identity issues is a big theme in this novel. Jarrah changed his last name at the request of his grandfather to get away from the bad connections to his mobster father. So, there is a big risk in exposing his identity. Millie has not let on her real reasons for coming to Far North Queensland either and has pretended she is just a free spirit drifting from place to place.
Ironically this pair will discover they have more connections than they originally knew and there is a rocky journey ahead. But all will be revealed after heated discussions, hurts, misunderstandings and a new surprise. Be assured, the various threads of this story will come together in a satisfying ending. This rural romance with some mystery and mayhem is well written and kept my attention to the very last page and word. I loved the hero and heroine who are genuine and very likeable. The unfolding drama in such a beautiful setting is a bonus, too. Plus, the uplifting ending made me smile. I enjoyed watching these two work things out, find their places and answers and overcome the past when wrongs are made right. A heartfelt satisfying read! 5 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thanks to HQ Fiction and Netgalley for a review copy.
Once Amelia (or Millie as she is called by her friends) is almost at her destination, she has vehicle problems and is rescued by Jarrah King. This meeting leads to a job as a cook at his Riverside Roadhouse (a business and home left to him by his grandfather) where she manages to impress everyone with her fine cooking skills; except Jarrah’s nephew who takes an instant dislike to her.
Jarrah and Millie get to know each other over time and there is a strong familiarity and attraction. They fight the feelings that are developing between them but we know this won’t last forever. With roadblocks like limited trust and hiding major information about their past lives from each other, building a sound relationship will be impossible. At least not until the walls of self-protection come down. They fear that honest revelations about who they are and their past lives will change perceptions and they could lose control of their own narrative. Can they overcome these hurdles, trust each other and get closer?
Identity issues is a big theme in this novel. Jarrah changed his last name at the request of his grandfather to get away from the bad connections to his mobster father. So, there is a big risk in exposing his identity. Millie has not let on her real reasons for coming to Far North Queensland either and has pretended she is just a free spirit drifting from place to place.
Ironically this pair will discover they have more connections than they originally knew and there is a rocky journey ahead. But all will be revealed after heated discussions, hurts, misunderstandings and a new surprise. Be assured, the various threads of this story will come together in a satisfying ending. This rural romance with some mystery and mayhem is well written and kept my attention to the very last page and word. I loved the hero and heroine who are genuine and very likeable. The unfolding drama in such a beautiful setting is a bonus, too. Plus, the uplifting ending made me smile. I enjoyed watching these two work things out, find their places and answers and overcome the past when wrongs are made right. A heartfelt satisfying read! 5 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thanks to HQ Fiction and Netgalley for a review copy.
April 19, 2024
Mandy Magro has done it again with this amazing book about love, family,secrets and haunting from the past. I absolutely loved it and I couldn't put it down.
December 3, 2024
A warm and fuzzy rural Australian read.
Even though it is not my usual genre, I never skip a Magro - she hits the right notes every time.
A tender and emotional Aussie country love story with a dash of mystery and intrigue. Despite knowing how it will end, the reading experience is still well worth it. Amelia Price has a tragic past and has escaped her hometown of Riverside after losing her family in a terrible fire.
A letter arrives proclaiming that if she returns to her childhood hometown, she will uncover the truth about the fire. Enter local roadhouse owner Jarrah King, who has his problems haunting him.
Sparks ignite, complications arise, and the story unfolds.
Beautiful setting, characters and an outstanding story!
Even though it is not my usual genre, I never skip a Magro - she hits the right notes every time.
A tender and emotional Aussie country love story with a dash of mystery and intrigue. Despite knowing how it will end, the reading experience is still well worth it. Amelia Price has a tragic past and has escaped her hometown of Riverside after losing her family in a terrible fire.
A letter arrives proclaiming that if she returns to her childhood hometown, she will uncover the truth about the fire. Enter local roadhouse owner Jarrah King, who has his problems haunting him.
Sparks ignite, complications arise, and the story unfolds.
Beautiful setting, characters and an outstanding story!
May 10, 2024
I always enjoy the wholesome themes of Mandy Margo’s novels and this story was a shining example of that. The back story added spice to the mixture, along with the wonderful description that enhanced the plot. This is a four and half star novel.
May 22, 2024
Thank you to Harlequin for sending me a copy of Secrets of Riverside in return for my honest review!
This is the first book of Mandy Magro's that I have read and it was such a pleasure to read! I have been hitting the dark romance and romantasy genre a lot this year, so getting to dive into a beautiful Aussie romance that touches on overcoming past trauma and grief with a bit of a mystery on the side, was a great change of pace for me. This story is such an easy read and the characters, while flawed and dealing with some pretty heavy baggage are instantly lovable. The setting for this story is in upper tropical Queensland, Magro does an absolutely fantastic job of setting the scene for the reader, it's beautifully done.
As the reader we have more of an insight to the overall picture and Amelia and Jarrah's shared past, but you cannot help but root for this two and their undeniable chemistry. I was absolutetly dreading the moment that they realised their shared past, and I think that Magro did in such a clever and devasting way! I am also grateful that this was resolved quickly, especially with Millie's secret, the ending and the epilogue were a perfect conclusion to this beautifully written story!
This is the first book of Mandy Magro's that I have read and it was such a pleasure to read! I have been hitting the dark romance and romantasy genre a lot this year, so getting to dive into a beautiful Aussie romance that touches on overcoming past trauma and grief with a bit of a mystery on the side, was a great change of pace for me. This story is such an easy read and the characters, while flawed and dealing with some pretty heavy baggage are instantly lovable. The setting for this story is in upper tropical Queensland, Magro does an absolutely fantastic job of setting the scene for the reader, it's beautifully done.
As the reader we have more of an insight to the overall picture and Amelia and Jarrah's shared past, but you cannot help but root for this two and their undeniable chemistry. I was absolutetly dreading the moment that they realised their shared past, and I think that Magro did in such a clever and devasting way! I am also grateful that this was resolved quickly, especially with Millie's secret, the ending and the epilogue were a perfect conclusion to this beautifully written story!
June 3, 2024
Thanks to NetGalley, Harlequin Australia, and the author for the chance to read this book.
Secrets of Riverside is set in tropical far North Queensland, and the author describes the area in an enticing manner that makes me want to travel there to experience it for myself. You can really tell Mandy Magro loves the area she is writing about.
This story had some intrigue that kept me interested at times but a big chunk of the time where Millie and Jarrah are together feels like filling time and when the drama came to a head it felt entirely anticlimactic. I also struggled with the over the top sugary sweet way Millie's character speaks when she explains her emotions. Unfortunately, I've noticed that seems to be a common thread in this authors books now, and for me personally, I just feel it's a bit much. Overall, the book was ok, but not one that had me staying glued to it.
Secrets of Riverside is set in tropical far North Queensland, and the author describes the area in an enticing manner that makes me want to travel there to experience it for myself. You can really tell Mandy Magro loves the area she is writing about.
This story had some intrigue that kept me interested at times but a big chunk of the time where Millie and Jarrah are together feels like filling time and when the drama came to a head it felt entirely anticlimactic. I also struggled with the over the top sugary sweet way Millie's character speaks when she explains her emotions. Unfortunately, I've noticed that seems to be a common thread in this authors books now, and for me personally, I just feel it's a bit much. Overall, the book was ok, but not one that had me staying glued to it.
January 19, 2025
Amelia Price has battled with feelings of guilt and anger most of her life due to her family dying in a house fire with suspicious circumstances. She was pulled from the fire by an unknown rescuer whilst the other three members of her family perished.
She moves to Sydney with her friend Ebony, and out of the blue a letter and photo are delivered suggesting if she goes to Riverside in Queensland to the roadhouse and motel, she will find out the truth about her family from all those years ago.
Amelia ( or Millie) as she is known, is just outside Riverside when her car breaks down. She is rescued by the dashing Jarrah King who relocated and changed his name to leave his past behind, and now owns the local roadhouse and motel. When Millie finds out he has a cooks position available she takes it to help pay to fix her car and keep her busy whilst she gets to the bottom of the mysterious letter.
A fantastic book with an excellent storyline and strong, interesting characters. A must-read!
She moves to Sydney with her friend Ebony, and out of the blue a letter and photo are delivered suggesting if she goes to Riverside in Queensland to the roadhouse and motel, she will find out the truth about her family from all those years ago.
Amelia ( or Millie) as she is known, is just outside Riverside when her car breaks down. She is rescued by the dashing Jarrah King who relocated and changed his name to leave his past behind, and now owns the local roadhouse and motel. When Millie finds out he has a cooks position available she takes it to help pay to fix her car and keep her busy whilst she gets to the bottom of the mysterious letter.
A fantastic book with an excellent storyline and strong, interesting characters. A must-read!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 5, 2024
I love an easy read that you sink yourself into and can’t wait to see how it ends, I love imagining how their relationship takes off and works so well and the connection they realise and develop is always a must in these novels - I have to admit I love a man that can cook a meal too!
Great read for me, loved the story just thought it ended very quickly with it all happening right at the end and super fast. There is a whole tonne of forgiveness in Millie’s mind and soul which is lovely for the story but not sure in real life she would have understood and accepted as easily.
However, we read to escape reality for moments like these and I do love a happy ending and a story written that it’s very easy to see clearly the characters and fall in love with them as much as they do each other.
Thank you for sharing your talent in another incredible novel.
Great read for me, loved the story just thought it ended very quickly with it all happening right at the end and super fast. There is a whole tonne of forgiveness in Millie’s mind and soul which is lovely for the story but not sure in real life she would have understood and accepted as easily.
However, we read to escape reality for moments like these and I do love a happy ending and a story written that it’s very easy to see clearly the characters and fall in love with them as much as they do each other.
Thank you for sharing your talent in another incredible novel.
June 10, 2024
Loved it so much
Mandy Magro lastest novel is one of the best reads I have in while reading. Amielle Prince survived a house fire that killed her family at the age of 15 she has a memory of a person carrying her out. Jarrah King owns and runs Riverside Acares. He inherited it from his grandfather living and raised his Newphew Timmy.
A letter sent to Millie sends in motion the secret of the past coming to light. I loved these characters how they felt so close to each other on the road to love. I hope Mandy writes Ebony stories, too.
Mandy Magro lastest novel is one of the best reads I have in while reading. Amielle Prince survived a house fire that killed her family at the age of 15 she has a memory of a person carrying her out. Jarrah King owns and runs Riverside Acares. He inherited it from his grandfather living and raised his Newphew Timmy.
A letter sent to Millie sends in motion the secret of the past coming to light. I loved these characters how they felt so close to each other on the road to love. I hope Mandy writes Ebony stories, too.
October 16, 2024
Secrets of Riverside is Mandy Margo’s latest novel. After losing her family in a devastating house fire as a teenager, Millie has never recovered. After receiving a mysterious letter, Millie sets off to Far North Queensland to seek some answers. Arriving in Riverside she finds herself a job working for the friendly, but guarded Jarrah. Both must navigate their growing attraction, whilst both harbouring damaging secrets.
An enjoyable read with loveable characters - even the furry one’s! 🐶
Thank you Harlequin Aus for the copy to read & review.
An enjoyable read with loveable characters - even the furry one’s! 🐶
Thank you Harlequin Aus for the copy to read & review.
July 6, 2024
After being saved by an unknown hero when her family was murdered in a fire, Millie has suffered from not knowing who killed them and why. When she receives a letter telling her to get to Riverside and she will uncover the truth, she heads there without delay. Hoping to find the truth, she also finds the lovely Jarrah who is dealing with his own pain. Will it be love or will it be the end of everything Millie knows?
August 26, 2024
I really liked the book I couldn’t put it down , only one criticism is the story line was dragged out too much and the climax of the story was left right to the end three pages . I kept saying to myself through out the book a lot tell him tell him …..
As with Tommy I wanted to know more how and why …. But over all a good book .
As with Tommy I wanted to know more how and why …. But over all a good book .
October 21, 2024
Mandy you have done it again. I loved both Milly & Jarah & the way their story unfolds with the bumps in the road.
The acknowledgment at the end for us the reader made me laugh & thank you at the same time because reading is a vital element for me time.
The acknowledgment at the end for us the reader made me laugh & thank you at the same time because reading is a vital element for me time.
December 11, 2024
Very enjoyable
May 16, 2024
Mandy Magro is a very consistent writer, tending to show the same strengths and weaknesses in each novel. As a result, readers who’ve enjoyed Magro’s earlier novels will surely enjoy this one. New readers are also likely to enjoy it.
Amelia’s life has been forever scarred by the loss of her family as a young child. Still haunted by the fire and the aftermath, Amelia is surprised and intrigued by an anonymous letter which suggests she’ll find the answers she needs in the small town of Riverside. Somewhat untethered already, Amelia sets off immediately.
She winds up at the Riverside Roadhouse, offered a temporary job by the owner, Jarrah King. The two feel an immediate attraction, which they’re cautious of because of Jarrah’s rules about consorting with staff. And it soon becomes clear – to Jarrah at least – that his past might present a very particular barrier to a relationship between them.
My one problem is this: I enjoy Magro’s novels in part because she does present her characters with meaty, genuine problems that may keep them apart. She sets up situations that leave me wanting a bit more. For me this creates more depth than some romance novels. However, the length restrictions of your average romance novel means that sometimes those problems are resolved a little too easily in the end.
I’m not sure that it’s really a problem that the body of her novels have substance, but it leaves me a little dissatisfied at times.
I felt that problem particularly acutely with this novel. It seemed to me that the emotional barriers that might prevent Amelia from making a life with Jarrah were shed far too easily in the end. Magro has developed two complex characters with big problems but then spent relatively little time on the resolution of them.
Still, a romance is about wish fulfilment. Magro has given us two appealing and believable characters, a pretty solid plot, and a charming background. In the end most readers will be satisfied with that. The attraction between the two is believable and vivid, which will engage most romantically inclined readers.
This does an excellent job as a romance novel, and as such should be a big success with that audience.
You may also be interested in my reviews of other novels by Mandy Magro:
https://otherdreamsotherlives.home.bl...
https://otherdreamsotherlives.home.bl...
https://otherdreamsotherlives.home.bl...
https://otherdreamsotherlives.home.bl...
https://otherdreamsotherlives.home.bl...
https://otherdreamsotherlives.home.bl...
If you enjoyed this review, please visit www.otherdreamsotherlives.home.blog to read more.
Amelia’s life has been forever scarred by the loss of her family as a young child. Still haunted by the fire and the aftermath, Amelia is surprised and intrigued by an anonymous letter which suggests she’ll find the answers she needs in the small town of Riverside. Somewhat untethered already, Amelia sets off immediately.
She winds up at the Riverside Roadhouse, offered a temporary job by the owner, Jarrah King. The two feel an immediate attraction, which they’re cautious of because of Jarrah’s rules about consorting with staff. And it soon becomes clear – to Jarrah at least – that his past might present a very particular barrier to a relationship between them.
My one problem is this: I enjoy Magro’s novels in part because she does present her characters with meaty, genuine problems that may keep them apart. She sets up situations that leave me wanting a bit more. For me this creates more depth than some romance novels. However, the length restrictions of your average romance novel means that sometimes those problems are resolved a little too easily in the end.
I’m not sure that it’s really a problem that the body of her novels have substance, but it leaves me a little dissatisfied at times.
I felt that problem particularly acutely with this novel. It seemed to me that the emotional barriers that might prevent Amelia from making a life with Jarrah were shed far too easily in the end. Magro has developed two complex characters with big problems but then spent relatively little time on the resolution of them.
Still, a romance is about wish fulfilment. Magro has given us two appealing and believable characters, a pretty solid plot, and a charming background. In the end most readers will be satisfied with that. The attraction between the two is believable and vivid, which will engage most romantically inclined readers.
This does an excellent job as a romance novel, and as such should be a big success with that audience.
You may also be interested in my reviews of other novels by Mandy Magro:
https://otherdreamsotherlives.home.bl...
https://otherdreamsotherlives.home.bl...
https://otherdreamsotherlives.home.bl...
https://otherdreamsotherlives.home.bl...
https://otherdreamsotherlives.home.bl...
https://otherdreamsotherlives.home.bl...
If you enjoyed this review, please visit www.otherdreamsotherlives.home.blog to read more.
May 11, 2024
Mandy Magro knows the far nrth Queensland countryside like the back of her hand, and in Secrets Of Riverside, she takes readers into the tropical rainforest just north of Cairns. Her descriptions of the lush vegetation and fauna made me feel like I was right there. This story starts in the Blue Mountains just outside of Sydney, where fifteen year old Amelia Price has just lost her parents and younger brother in a devastating house fire that she only escaped because a stranger rescued her. Fifteen year later, shes living with her best friend Ebony, having just left an abusive relationship and had a miscarriage. She’s clearly at a crossroads in her life and seems to be drifting until a mysterious letter has her travelling north to Riverside Acres. Jarrah King, owner of Riverside, which doubles as a horse breeding property and a roadhouse with a motel, has plenty of secrets in his past but despite a rough upbringing, he’s a strong, hardworking and decent man, who has raised his eighteen year-old nephew Tommy since his parents died. While I felt for Amelia, Milly to her friends, it took me a while to really empathise with her because she was drifting. Her arrival at Raiverside and becoming the cook at the roadhouse brought out a different side of her, one that I really loved. She and Jarrah are a great team and the sparks between them certainly flew. I didn’t like Tommy, who acted like a spoiled brat through most of the book. He certainly threw plenty of spanners in the works in terms of Milly working at the roadhouse and in terms of the budding romance between her and Jarrah. This story reallly flew by and I thoroughly enjoyed it.
April 11, 2024
Set in Queensland, Australia, Secrets of Riverside is a nice romantic read that moves along well.
I really liked the two main characters - Amelia (Millie) and Jarrah. They both have had a lot to deal with in their past lives, yet they are upright good living people. They deserved to find each other. As well as the two main characters we have a really fun dog in the story.
I liked the premise of the story, yet at times I felt it was a little forced. Tommy - Jarrah's nephew, didn't quite work for me. He seemed to just turn so easily one way or the other.
There is a lot of time given to the surroundings or setting or to characters interior thoughts. I found these large chunks of prose, a little off putting. I like to see plenty of dialogue in a book, there was some of course, I just felt I would have liked more.
If you like outback romance set in Australia I think you'll enjoy this book.
I really liked the two main characters - Amelia (Millie) and Jarrah. They both have had a lot to deal with in their past lives, yet they are upright good living people. They deserved to find each other. As well as the two main characters we have a really fun dog in the story.
I liked the premise of the story, yet at times I felt it was a little forced. Tommy - Jarrah's nephew, didn't quite work for me. He seemed to just turn so easily one way or the other.
There is a lot of time given to the surroundings or setting or to characters interior thoughts. I found these large chunks of prose, a little off putting. I like to see plenty of dialogue in a book, there was some of course, I just felt I would have liked more.
If you like outback romance set in Australia I think you'll enjoy this book.
May 18, 2024
I'm usually a lover of Mandy Magro and Autralian rural settings However sadly this one had me a few times thinking to myself just get on with it. The description of the emotional state of the main charters seem to drag on and I felt like it was reading like a school essay assignment where you filled the pages with lots of words to meet your word count. I enjoyed the story line and did like the book. I just didn't love it like I normally do.
May 20, 2024
A standalone rural romance set in Far North Queensland. I loved the sound of the small, tropical town and the Riverside Roadhouse. I really felt for Millie as she dealt with her PTSD and survivor guilt. Mandy covered Millie’s mental health issues with care and I liked that she wasn’t a perfect character. Her support and friendship with friend Ebony was lovely. Jarrah was equally interesting, I was on edge the whole time as I waited for his secrets and their connections to be revealed. I did find that it wrapped up fairly quickly but was glad to see them get their happily ever afters.
May 18, 2024
Easy read that had alot of secrets that eventually start ti make sense. I did find it a bit slow in parts though
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May 26, 2024[dnf @ 12%] the chapters just felt really long-winded...
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