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Outback Dust #2
Down Outback Roads
Down Outback Roads is an enthralling rural love story, about family, community and allowing yourself a second chance.
Kree Garrett's younger brother Seth is all the family she has left, so when he goes missing while working in the Australian outback, she races from America to join in the search. To everyone's relief, Seth is rescued by local volunteers and Kree finds, in an abandoned historic Cobb & Co Coach House, the opportunity to thank the community she's fallen in love with. But it isn't only the town she's fallen for.
Ewan Mackenzie has given up everything for his brother's family, but he can never give enough to assuage his guilt at what happened one dark night, years ago . . . Ewan knows he doesn't deserve happiness, however with Kree he finds it hard to keep his distance.
Can Kree and Ewan leave the tragedies of their pasts behind long enough to find a future together?
300 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 1, 2014
18 people are currently reading
524 people want to read
About the author
Alissa Callen
38 books303 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 35 reviews
April 22, 2014
As Ewan Mackenzie received the news they had all been waiting for, he breathed a sigh of relief. For the past two days he had been deeply involved in the search for a young man by the name of Seth Garrett who had gone missing in the Australian bush – Seth was a young American in Australia on his gap-year, and farm sitting Berridale, the property next to his. Kree, Seth’s older sister had flown immediately from her home in Colorado to help in the search to locate her beloved brother and he knew she would have been notified immediately the news came through. Seth was a lucky boy according to the locals – now that he was safe, Kree was determined to thank the people of Glenalla – their help had been crucial in locating him.
Back on Marellen Ewan’s sister-in-law Tish and her twin boys, five year olds Braye and Darby were waiting for Ewan to arrive home. Uncle Ewan was the best, and they had missed him. Ewan had taken over when his brother died, vowing to care for his young nephews and their mother as long as was necessary. But the long drought was taking its toll – businesses had closed in Glenalla, farmers had left the area. Ewan found he was worrying continually on how to keep Marellen afloat. He knew his best friend Travis was going through a similar time on his own farm…
Fighting to keep his emotions in check was becoming more of a battle than Ewan would have liked, but Kree was a kind and compassionate girl and was determined to help Glenalla. Her plan when she presented it to him seemed flawless – but she also seemed tense when she was in his company; was it that she didn’t like him? He knew the guilt from events in the past would never leave – he didn’t deserve happiness anyway; but Kree was getting under his skin.
With a mystery in Kree’s past difficult to talk about, but one she needed answers to, plus Ewan’s dark and all-encompassing guilt, was there any hope for a future together? As events continued to conspire against them, the time for Kree’s return to America moved closer – what would happen, would she just return home and forget about her time in Australia?
Aussie author Alissa Callen has created an outback story with depth – her description of the dry country, the homesteads and the small country town which was dying in the drought is extremely real. The emotion and anguish of the townspeople struggling on a day to day basis pulls at you, while the antics of the young twins, and their farm animals was highly entertaining. I thoroughly enjoyed this rural romance and have no hesitation in recommending it highly.
With thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my copy to read and review.
Back on Marellen Ewan’s sister-in-law Tish and her twin boys, five year olds Braye and Darby were waiting for Ewan to arrive home. Uncle Ewan was the best, and they had missed him. Ewan had taken over when his brother died, vowing to care for his young nephews and their mother as long as was necessary. But the long drought was taking its toll – businesses had closed in Glenalla, farmers had left the area. Ewan found he was worrying continually on how to keep Marellen afloat. He knew his best friend Travis was going through a similar time on his own farm…
Fighting to keep his emotions in check was becoming more of a battle than Ewan would have liked, but Kree was a kind and compassionate girl and was determined to help Glenalla. Her plan when she presented it to him seemed flawless – but she also seemed tense when she was in his company; was it that she didn’t like him? He knew the guilt from events in the past would never leave – he didn’t deserve happiness anyway; but Kree was getting under his skin.
With a mystery in Kree’s past difficult to talk about, but one she needed answers to, plus Ewan’s dark and all-encompassing guilt, was there any hope for a future together? As events continued to conspire against them, the time for Kree’s return to America moved closer – what would happen, would she just return home and forget about her time in Australia?
Aussie author Alissa Callen has created an outback story with depth – her description of the dry country, the homesteads and the small country town which was dying in the drought is extremely real. The emotion and anguish of the townspeople struggling on a day to day basis pulls at you, while the antics of the young twins, and their farm animals was highly entertaining. I thoroughly enjoyed this rural romance and have no hesitation in recommending it highly.
With thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my copy to read and review.
May 7, 2015
This was a small town, feel good romance. I must confess, that’s one of my favorite story types!
Kree and her brother, Seth traveled from America to a small town in the Australian outback, hoping to unravel their family's past. An accident involving Seth throws Kree together with the town, helping her forge relationships with its members. More specifically, with Ewan.
Hoping to give back to this generous community, and to help it thrive once again after a devastating drought, Kree remains and begins a restoration project. She can't help but fall in love with Ewan's family, and Ewan himself. Ewan is reluctant, however, because his own secrets leave him carrying a heavy burden of guilt, along with the responsibility of his sister-in-law and his nephews.
The interaction between the secondary characters was one of the delights of this book, as they feature prominently. There are just so many characters to love in Down Outback Roads, from the towns folk to the family and the adorable nephews.
Kree is a strong woman, who stubbornly does as she likes and is determined to make things happen. Ewan is a genuinely good, stand-up man who takes his responsibilities seriously. The unraveling of Kree's past and her family's heritage to the land was just icing on the cake. This author has written a story that you just want to live in; a story that leaves you feeling good, even if you are disappointed that it had to end! ~ George, 5 stars
Kree and her brother, Seth traveled from America to a small town in the Australian outback, hoping to unravel their family's past. An accident involving Seth throws Kree together with the town, helping her forge relationships with its members. More specifically, with Ewan.
Hoping to give back to this generous community, and to help it thrive once again after a devastating drought, Kree remains and begins a restoration project. She can't help but fall in love with Ewan's family, and Ewan himself. Ewan is reluctant, however, because his own secrets leave him carrying a heavy burden of guilt, along with the responsibility of his sister-in-law and his nephews.
The interaction between the secondary characters was one of the delights of this book, as they feature prominently. There are just so many characters to love in Down Outback Roads, from the towns folk to the family and the adorable nephews.
Kree is a strong woman, who stubbornly does as she likes and is determined to make things happen. Ewan is a genuinely good, stand-up man who takes his responsibilities seriously. The unraveling of Kree's past and her family's heritage to the land was just icing on the cake. This author has written a story that you just want to live in; a story that leaves you feeling good, even if you are disappointed that it had to end! ~ George, 5 stars
May 20, 2015
American artist, Kree, extends her stay in Australia to thank a small town for rescuing her younger brother. One of the rescuers, Ewan, a rancher, has sworn off love, so his attraction to Kree tests his willpower, and his heart.
This was a feel-good sort of read, full of kind people, and a strong sense of community and family, but the story dragged a little for me. I found myself wishing it had taken place while Kree’s brother was missing, rather than after, maybe it would have upped the emotional stakes with Kree in crisis in a foreign country, and Ewan desperate to save her brother, after he couldn’t save his own. I also quite liked Kree’s brother, Seth, he seemed a little more fallible than the main characters, and he livened up the few scenes he appeared in. It would have been interesting to get a glimpse of what it was like for him struggling to survive.
While I enjoyed the author’s debut more, this one did have some nice family moments, and an adorable goat.
I received this book through a Goodreads giveaway.
This was a feel-good sort of read, full of kind people, and a strong sense of community and family, but the story dragged a little for me. I found myself wishing it had taken place while Kree’s brother was missing, rather than after, maybe it would have upped the emotional stakes with Kree in crisis in a foreign country, and Ewan desperate to save her brother, after he couldn’t save his own. I also quite liked Kree’s brother, Seth, he seemed a little more fallible than the main characters, and he livened up the few scenes he appeared in. It would have been interesting to get a glimpse of what it was like for him struggling to survive.
While I enjoyed the author’s debut more, this one did have some nice family moments, and an adorable goat.
I received this book through a Goodreads giveaway.
October 23, 2017
The romance was sweet but slow. I felt it could've done with a little bit of spice. Nevertheless, it was a nice, heartwarming book. The characters were all fab, including the pet dogs and the cute goat. Loved the various relationships in the book especially the brother-sister like relationship between Ewan and his widowed sister-in-law, Tish. I loved their relationship the best.
In spite of being a city-girl and had the option of going back to her well-to-do parents --which her mother kept hoping for-- Tish carried on living at Maraellen, Ewan's family home, even when the place had been hit by a drought that put a huge dent on Ewan's finances. I liked how she'd tell the children not to immediately jump on Ewan when he got home knowing he'll be tired and hungry, how she worried over his financial and other problems, how she understood his pain.
Constantly plagued by guilt over his part in his brother's accident that resulted in his death, Ewan has taken over the responsibility of looking after Tish and his two nephews which is why he doesn't want to get involved with any woman. It is the reason why despite being attracted to Kree he runs from her.
Kree is an American, who first comes to the outback when she finds out her brother was lost, but then takes six weeks off from work to find out more about her mother's birthplace. She is attracted to Ewan, but doesn't get any encouragement from him.
Tish however knows Ewan has feelings for Kree, but will not do anything about it because of his guilt and responsibility, which makes her determined to bring the two together. She ropes in help from Ewan's best friend, Travis, the man who was once close to her and whom she would've married had she not got pregnant by Ewan's brother, Fergus. Ewan is equally keen on bringing Tish and Travis together. So, we have two romances going on.
Kree brings a lot of change to the town of Glenalla. Loved the community feeling, how they all got involved in the projects and how they accepted Kree and her little brother, Seth into the fold. However, it was only Ewan who could make her stay back.
Overall, a very nice, sweet and feel good read.
In spite of being a city-girl and had the option of going back to her well-to-do parents --which her mother kept hoping for-- Tish carried on living at Maraellen, Ewan's family home, even when the place had been hit by a drought that put a huge dent on Ewan's finances. I liked how she'd tell the children not to immediately jump on Ewan when he got home knowing he'll be tired and hungry, how she worried over his financial and other problems, how she understood his pain.
Constantly plagued by guilt over his part in his brother's accident that resulted in his death, Ewan has taken over the responsibility of looking after Tish and his two nephews which is why he doesn't want to get involved with any woman. It is the reason why despite being attracted to Kree he runs from her.
Kree is an American, who first comes to the outback when she finds out her brother was lost, but then takes six weeks off from work to find out more about her mother's birthplace. She is attracted to Ewan, but doesn't get any encouragement from him.
Tish however knows Ewan has feelings for Kree, but will not do anything about it because of his guilt and responsibility, which makes her determined to bring the two together. She ropes in help from Ewan's best friend, Travis, the man who was once close to her and whom she would've married had she not got pregnant by Ewan's brother, Fergus. Ewan is equally keen on bringing Tish and Travis together. So, we have two romances going on.
Kree brings a lot of change to the town of Glenalla. Loved the community feeling, how they all got involved in the projects and how they accepted Kree and her little brother, Seth into the fold. However, it was only Ewan who could make her stay back.
Overall, a very nice, sweet and feel good read.
December 8, 2018
Received ARC from NetGalley.
Down Outback Roads begins with Kree's brother missing so she's in Australia to help find him. Now she's decided to stay and help out some new friends she made by house sitting. But the problem is in her control freak world she's losing control when it comes to the local farmer Ewan. And Ewan who has a sister-in-law, and two nephews to hep take care of can't add falling in love on his plate.. Especially with his guilt eating at him from his brothers death. But sometimes fate has other plans, and he can't seem to keep his emotions in check when it comes to Kree.
The book was over all okay. I liked the characters, and the plot was interesting for the most part. But I felt bored through a whole lot of it. Some of it just didn't seem to fit really well with the other part of the story, or certain things were overshadowed by other things. So it was a interesting read for the most part, but at times it did seem to drag because I was slightly bored with it.
Down Outback Roads begins with Kree's brother missing so she's in Australia to help find him. Now she's decided to stay and help out some new friends she made by house sitting. But the problem is in her control freak world she's losing control when it comes to the local farmer Ewan. And Ewan who has a sister-in-law, and two nephews to hep take care of can't add falling in love on his plate.. Especially with his guilt eating at him from his brothers death. But sometimes fate has other plans, and he can't seem to keep his emotions in check when it comes to Kree.
The book was over all okay. I liked the characters, and the plot was interesting for the most part. But I felt bored through a whole lot of it. Some of it just didn't seem to fit really well with the other part of the story, or certain things were overshadowed by other things. So it was a interesting read for the most part, but at times it did seem to drag because I was slightly bored with it.
August 1, 2014
This is a country romance based in a drought affected town Glenalla in country New South Wales.
The two main characters are torn between love, loss and loyalty - Ewan a young farmer lad who doesn't think he deserves to be happy and fall in love and Kree a young America girl who thinks taking care of her adventurous brother should overshadow her own happiness.
I enjoyed the story of life on the farm but it wasn't really believable - leaving Kree to look after a farm with absolutely no experience was pretty unrealistic and there is no way you could spend your days pottering around in the vegetable garden or painting all day when there was farm work to be done!
I liked all the characters in the book, especially the town folk stereotypes.
I really wanted to like this book more but struggled with the writing style, there were way too many describing words for every single thought and action. I also found Ewan and Kree's resistance at love pretty wearing at times.
I recommend this book to fans of country romance and American's with an interest in living in Australia.
The two main characters are torn between love, loss and loyalty - Ewan a young farmer lad who doesn't think he deserves to be happy and fall in love and Kree a young America girl who thinks taking care of her adventurous brother should overshadow her own happiness.
I enjoyed the story of life on the farm but it wasn't really believable - leaving Kree to look after a farm with absolutely no experience was pretty unrealistic and there is no way you could spend your days pottering around in the vegetable garden or painting all day when there was farm work to be done!
I liked all the characters in the book, especially the town folk stereotypes.
I really wanted to like this book more but struggled with the writing style, there were way too many describing words for every single thought and action. I also found Ewan and Kree's resistance at love pretty wearing at times.
I recommend this book to fans of country romance and American's with an interest in living in Australia.
February 16, 2022
A bit of a letdown after reading the first novel of the series. The chemistry just wasn't there.
November 21, 2017
This book was a little slow to get started, but I enjoyed it once it did..... it was kind of predictable, but it was a nice easy Aussie story...
April 29, 2019
This was a great book to read and it really highlighted the fact that you don't always know everything about your parents and their lives prior to you being born. Family ties can also make a place or a person feel right around you and it amazing when it is found out that there is a connection from the past involved!
September 1, 2017
another great book
January 30, 2020
Another great novel from Alissa.
December 24, 2021
A gripping romantic tale of finding love, a destiny and a place to call home...
Alissa Callen's, Doen Outback Roads' does not disappoint!
Alissa Callen's, Doen Outback Roads' does not disappoint!
February 23, 2025
Another great read.
January 6, 2025
A brilliant book got so absorbed in the book felt I was actually there. Loved it!
April 18, 2014
I received a complimentary copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
Down Outback Roads starts off with intense scenes of rescue efforts to save Seth, Kree’s little brother who got lost in the Australian outback. Once he is returned to her, safe and sound, she is determined to repay the small rural community that helped her save him. She postpones returning back home to Colorado in order to find a way to express her gratitude. But Ewan, a local farmer, might have something to do with her decision to prolong her stay.
Their attraction to each other is obvious almost from the first page on, and their growing affection develops nicely. The dynamics between Kree and Ewan is the highlight of the story; it’s what draws the reader in. We get to see how they struggle with their emotions because they’re both convinced there is no place in their lives for romance. Kree is dedicated to taking care of her little brother, while Ewan is determined to take up the role of his deceased brother and provide for the family he’s left behind.
I particularly enjoyed the descriptions of landscape and the farming in Australia. The land’s beauty and austerity gave an insight into the characters, too. But I wished the characters felt a bit more real. They were all too perfect, good-natured, and all-around positive. I realize a certain amount of clichés and stereotypes (boys toys are mentioned about ten times) are to be expected in genre literature, but the author could’ve avoided some of them and could have written the characters more diverse and true to life. The tensions and conflicts would certainly feel more real and intense that way. Because truth be told, once Kree and Ewan realize how they really feel about each other, their reasons for not being together seem flimsy.
While I thought in places the detailed descriptions were appropriate and needed, there were other instances where too much information bogged down the narrative. After the first few pages of the rescue mission where the pace and emotions were intense, the story then slowed down and the tensions were weakened. While the details add to the authenticity of the novel (which I really appreciate because I love Australia), they shouldn’t prevail over the pace and conflict of the story.
With a more intense pace and better developed characters Down Outback Roads could’ve been a great read. Instead, it is a solid romance with enough tension between the protagonists to keep you reading and rooting for them if you can ignore the stereotypes and slow rhythm of the narrative.
Down Outback Roads starts off with intense scenes of rescue efforts to save Seth, Kree’s little brother who got lost in the Australian outback. Once he is returned to her, safe and sound, she is determined to repay the small rural community that helped her save him. She postpones returning back home to Colorado in order to find a way to express her gratitude. But Ewan, a local farmer, might have something to do with her decision to prolong her stay.
Their attraction to each other is obvious almost from the first page on, and their growing affection develops nicely. The dynamics between Kree and Ewan is the highlight of the story; it’s what draws the reader in. We get to see how they struggle with their emotions because they’re both convinced there is no place in their lives for romance. Kree is dedicated to taking care of her little brother, while Ewan is determined to take up the role of his deceased brother and provide for the family he’s left behind.
I particularly enjoyed the descriptions of landscape and the farming in Australia. The land’s beauty and austerity gave an insight into the characters, too. But I wished the characters felt a bit more real. They were all too perfect, good-natured, and all-around positive. I realize a certain amount of clichés and stereotypes (boys toys are mentioned about ten times) are to be expected in genre literature, but the author could’ve avoided some of them and could have written the characters more diverse and true to life. The tensions and conflicts would certainly feel more real and intense that way. Because truth be told, once Kree and Ewan realize how they really feel about each other, their reasons for not being together seem flimsy.
While I thought in places the detailed descriptions were appropriate and needed, there were other instances where too much information bogged down the narrative. After the first few pages of the rescue mission where the pace and emotions were intense, the story then slowed down and the tensions were weakened. While the details add to the authenticity of the novel (which I really appreciate because I love Australia), they shouldn’t prevail over the pace and conflict of the story.
With a more intense pace and better developed characters Down Outback Roads could’ve been a great read. Instead, it is a solid romance with enough tension between the protagonists to keep you reading and rooting for them if you can ignore the stereotypes and slow rhythm of the narrative.
August 13, 2016
Ewan Mackenzie's bubble of guilt and self-recrimination threaten to burst upon meeting Kree Garrett when she joins in the search and rescue effort for her younger brother who got lost in the bush. In the meantime, Kree wishes to pay back the community that has helped save her brother by spearheading a restoration project that will put the dying town back on Australia's tourist map...and her in a lot of contact with Ewan. The attraction is mutual but both have their own painful pasts to get over and much of the story passes with a slow burn and escalating sexual tension.
Down Outback Roads is an insular, feel-good rural romance set in the Australian bush which took me a while to get through because of the storytelling that seemed to lag the moment Kree decided to stay in town, caused in part, by Alissa Callen's enthused descriptions of the landscape that could have been more succinct or even omitted. The plot moves along relatively angst-free and bumps in the road are pretty much that - small obstacles that Alissa Callen doesn't throw too much weight behind so that they in turn, don't become serious stumbling blocks in the narrative. While that lends a weighty maturity to her characters, I couldn't help but feel that the passionate spark seemed lacking despite the longing and need Ewan and Kree (and to a lesser extent, Trish and Travis) had for each other after the lengthy build-up. Yet the story ends almost where it begins and coming full circle was more satisfying than I thought it would be.
*ARC given by netgalley
Down Outback Roads is an insular, feel-good rural romance set in the Australian bush which took me a while to get through because of the storytelling that seemed to lag the moment Kree decided to stay in town, caused in part, by Alissa Callen's enthused descriptions of the landscape that could have been more succinct or even omitted. The plot moves along relatively angst-free and bumps in the road are pretty much that - small obstacles that Alissa Callen doesn't throw too much weight behind so that they in turn, don't become serious stumbling blocks in the narrative. While that lends a weighty maturity to her characters, I couldn't help but feel that the passionate spark seemed lacking despite the longing and need Ewan and Kree (and to a lesser extent, Trish and Travis) had for each other after the lengthy build-up. Yet the story ends almost where it begins and coming full circle was more satisfying than I thought it would be.
*ARC given by netgalley
April 28, 2014
A heartwarming story of loss, love, and loyalty and honor, and how if you are not careful, you run the risk of missing the best thing that could ever happen to you.
Seth is all Kree has left in the world, having lost their parents years before, and she takes that very seriously. So seriously in fact that she has dropped everything and flown halfway round the world to help find her teenage brother that has gone missing during his year abroad.
Ewan is all about family, his brothers' family, and making sure they are taken care of since the accident that took him from them. He choses the bare the burden both financially and emotionally, to the point of ignoring the chemistry he feels for the beautiful American, Kree.
But Kree is more than just a pretty face, and the longer she stays in the community to "repay the debt" to those that helped find her brother, the harder it is to ignore the pull they have toward one another.
Secrets abound, and loyalties are tested as truths are revealed, but where love resides, nothing else stands a chance.
This was an enjoyable read, and I found myself staying up way past my bedtime to get in those next few pages before I could walk away.
Wonderful scenic views are described in such a way that you felt you were a part of the story. The relationships and characters were full and fun and made you want to join in the excitement as well as mourn in the grief.
Will definitely be watching for other titles by this author.
Seth is all Kree has left in the world, having lost their parents years before, and she takes that very seriously. So seriously in fact that she has dropped everything and flown halfway round the world to help find her teenage brother that has gone missing during his year abroad.
Ewan is all about family, his brothers' family, and making sure they are taken care of since the accident that took him from them. He choses the bare the burden both financially and emotionally, to the point of ignoring the chemistry he feels for the beautiful American, Kree.
But Kree is more than just a pretty face, and the longer she stays in the community to "repay the debt" to those that helped find her brother, the harder it is to ignore the pull they have toward one another.
Secrets abound, and loyalties are tested as truths are revealed, but where love resides, nothing else stands a chance.
This was an enjoyable read, and I found myself staying up way past my bedtime to get in those next few pages before I could walk away.
Wonderful scenic views are described in such a way that you felt you were a part of the story. The relationships and characters were full and fun and made you want to join in the excitement as well as mourn in the grief.
Will definitely be watching for other titles by this author.
April 29, 2014
There is no place like Glenalla….
Thrown right into the middle of the action, this book hooks you in from the first line. Kree travels to Australia to find her brother who went missing while backpacking. She soon finds her brother and the beauty that is the Outback of NSW. While stepping into her brother shoes while he recuperated to full fill his commitments to a local family; she experience Glenalla first hand. Kree going to Glenalla was no mistake- it was her destiny.
She hatches a plan to save the very town that came to her aid when her brother was in life threatening peril, and along the way discovers her own family’s secrets.
Ewan and Kree’s attraction brews slowly like an electrical storm, building in intensity; but he quickly puts on the breaks as he feels he is unworthy of her.
Ewan is a flawed character who blames himself for his family’s misfortune. He resigns himself to live the bachelor life as a penalty- that is until he meets Kree. They have issues getting off the ground but there was no denying they were in love.
Glenalla was first featured in “Beneath Outback Skies”. Although, I suggest you read that book first, it isn’t necessary- “Down Outback Roads” is a stand alone novel.
Glenalla is such a wonderful setting, full of down home charm and community spirit. Come and fall in love with Alissa Callen’s Glenalla for yourself.
January 18, 2016
3.5 Outback Stars
I have received this book from Random House Australia, through Netgalley, for a honest review.
I think this was the first "Australian outback" book I've ever read. To be honest, I didn't think I'd like it, but I was pleasantly surprised. This is a feel-good, heartwarming story, set in the central New South Whales, Australia. The male protagonist, Ewan Mackenzie, is a hard-working man, who's trying to save his farm and help his brother's widow, Trish, and her two twin boys.
He thinks he's undeserving of love because he feels guilt over his brother's untimely death. But a beautiful American girl, Kree, shows up in their part of their world, as Ewan and other locals are looking for her brother who got lost in the bush. They're both attracted to each other, but for different reasons, they try to deny it. But life comes full circle.
Alissa Callen writes well and the novel had a good flow and it's an easy read. The characters are interesting and believable. In saying all that, the plot and the ending were predictable or shall I say a bit too in the end, everything fits together perfectly , but I guess that goes with with the genre.
Recommended: For those who enjoy a feel-good rural story that is un-challenging and has a HEA ending.
Cover: 3+ stars
I have received this book from Random House Australia, through Netgalley, for a honest review.
I think this was the first "Australian outback" book I've ever read. To be honest, I didn't think I'd like it, but I was pleasantly surprised. This is a feel-good, heartwarming story, set in the central New South Whales, Australia. The male protagonist, Ewan Mackenzie, is a hard-working man, who's trying to save his farm and help his brother's widow, Trish, and her two twin boys.
He thinks he's undeserving of love because he feels guilt over his brother's untimely death. But a beautiful American girl, Kree, shows up in their part of their world, as Ewan and other locals are looking for her brother who got lost in the bush. They're both attracted to each other, but for different reasons, they try to deny it. But life comes full circle.
Alissa Callen writes well and the novel had a good flow and it's an easy read. The characters are interesting and believable. In saying all that, the plot and the ending were predictable or shall I say a bit too in the end, everything fits together perfectly , but I guess that goes with with the genre.
Recommended: For those who enjoy a feel-good rural story that is un-challenging and has a HEA ending.
Cover: 3+ stars
May 14, 2014
Kree, an artist from USA, is distraught when her younger brother Seth goes missing in the Aussie bush. The community of Glenalla rallies around her and works tirelessly to rescue Seth alive and well. She is determined to find a way to thank this town who put it all on the line to help strangers; but how?
Ewan Mackenzie, who threw himself into the rescue effort day and night, lives with grief - and a double helping of guilt. Thrown together with Kree, he struggles with their growing attraction, knowing that he doesn't deserve happiness and that she will be returning to the USA soon.
This is a lovely little rural romance, with more than a touch of family-secrets mystery. You might not be a huge fan if "Just TALK to each other!" romances are your anti-crack, but it's done convincingly here, in my opinion. The book really emphasises the importance of extended family and neighbourliness in struggling rural towns. I loved the way the minor characters and children were drawn, all real people in themselves, with storylines and character arcs. Alissa Callen remains, as always, a terrific writer and a reliable contributor to the genre.
Ewan Mackenzie, who threw himself into the rescue effort day and night, lives with grief - and a double helping of guilt. Thrown together with Kree, he struggles with their growing attraction, knowing that he doesn't deserve happiness and that she will be returning to the USA soon.
This is a lovely little rural romance, with more than a touch of family-secrets mystery. You might not be a huge fan if "Just TALK to each other!" romances are your anti-crack, but it's done convincingly here, in my opinion. The book really emphasises the importance of extended family and neighbourliness in struggling rural towns. I loved the way the minor characters and children were drawn, all real people in themselves, with storylines and character arcs. Alissa Callen remains, as always, a terrific writer and a reliable contributor to the genre.
August 3, 2014
(I received a free copy from Net Galley in exchange for an honest review.)
From the opening pages of Down Outback Roads, the love of the outback and small communities is very clear. Rural romance novels have been extremely popular over the last few years and this book proves why that is so.
The plot is good: a young man (Seth) goes missing and his American sister (Kree) flies to Australia to help find him. When he has been rescued, Kree turns to thank the town that helped find her brother. She also turns to one man who led the search...
The characters are about what you would expect from this genre - not that that is a criticism but if you have read rural romance before, you have an idea of the type of characters that tell the story.
The biggest plus about this book is the storytelling. Alissa Callen has all the skills to hold the reader's interest long after the opening chapter.
Highly recommended!
Paul
ARH
From the opening pages of Down Outback Roads, the love of the outback and small communities is very clear. Rural romance novels have been extremely popular over the last few years and this book proves why that is so.
The plot is good: a young man (Seth) goes missing and his American sister (Kree) flies to Australia to help find him. When he has been rescued, Kree turns to thank the town that helped find her brother. She also turns to one man who led the search...
The characters are about what you would expect from this genre - not that that is a criticism but if you have read rural romance before, you have an idea of the type of characters that tell the story.
The biggest plus about this book is the storytelling. Alissa Callen has all the skills to hold the reader's interest long after the opening chapter.
Highly recommended!
Paul
ARH
April 19, 2025
I think that I've read too many Callen books in close succession because I found the story to have some very predictable plot elements
--twins (Down Outback Roads, The Red Dirt Road)
--the living sibling is good, the dead one is bad (Down Outback Roads, The Red Dirt Road)
--question about parentage (Down Outback Roads, The Red Dirt Road, Snowy Mountains Promise)
--the hero doesn't want to be with the heroine for fear he will hurt her (Down Outback Roads, The Red Dirt Road, Snowy Mountains Promise)
Reading about the side plots was a chore. For instance, I found myself not absorbing the part about Kree's heritage.
I thought it was very convenient that Kree was rich.
I wished that Callen had included an update on Travis and Trish's story at the end of the book.
Nevertheless, I liked all the main characters. I love that Callen's female main characters do not hide how they feel about the main male characters (Kree and Ewan, Fliss and Hewitt). They let the men know how they feel, and they do not let the men be the only ones putting their feelings on the line.
The narrator did a good job.
--twins (Down Outback Roads, The Red Dirt Road)
--the living sibling is good, the dead one is bad (Down Outback Roads, The Red Dirt Road)
--question about parentage (Down Outback Roads, The Red Dirt Road, Snowy Mountains Promise)
--the hero doesn't want to be with the heroine for fear he will hurt her (Down Outback Roads, The Red Dirt Road, Snowy Mountains Promise)
Reading about the side plots was a chore. For instance, I found myself not absorbing the part about Kree's heritage.
I thought it was very convenient that Kree was rich.
I wished that Callen had included an update on Travis and Trish's story at the end of the book.
Nevertheless, I liked all the main characters. I love that Callen's female main characters do not hide how they feel about the main male characters (Kree and Ewan, Fliss and Hewitt). They let the men know how they feel, and they do not let the men be the only ones putting their feelings on the line.
The narrator did a good job.
September 2, 2016
I really enjoyed this book, for a nice sweet outback Australian Romance, I really was drawn in. The Characters of Kree and Ewan are relatable and beautifully written. The Secondary Characters are just as involved and I would love to see them get their own stories as a continuation.
The most exciting element of this novel is that part of the story was based where I use to live in Dubbo NSW, not the most spectacular place but the first book I have read where I can Imagine the scenes in detail because I have been there.
Kree’s Brother Seth becomes lost in the bush while house sitting a farm while traveling around Australia, Kree becomes involved in the Search where she meets Ewan, who has a dark past and plenty of baggage, after Seth is found safe and well Kree stays on so she can look after the farm while her brother continues traveling. The Sexual Tension between Kree and Ewan is Hot as much as the romance is sweet.
All up Down Outback roads is a great Romance set in outback New South Wales and I would really like to see it continue.
The most exciting element of this novel is that part of the story was based where I use to live in Dubbo NSW, not the most spectacular place but the first book I have read where I can Imagine the scenes in detail because I have been there.
Kree’s Brother Seth becomes lost in the bush while house sitting a farm while traveling around Australia, Kree becomes involved in the Search where she meets Ewan, who has a dark past and plenty of baggage, after Seth is found safe and well Kree stays on so she can look after the farm while her brother continues traveling. The Sexual Tension between Kree and Ewan is Hot as much as the romance is sweet.
All up Down Outback roads is a great Romance set in outback New South Wales and I would really like to see it continue.
May 30, 2014
The opening few pages of Down Outback Roads sets the scene of the outback and the community that becomes involved when someone goes missing in the vast, lonely isolated areas of Australian Bush. Seth is found alive, has a few days in hospital then moves on to Sydney while Kree takes over the farm sitting job Seth had been booked to do. This places her on the farm right next door to Ewan. When a pump malfunctions Kree and the house animals move next door with Ewan, Tish and the twins Braye and Darby.
While in town talking to a local Kree notices the Cobb & Co Coach House. A Sydney Artist had previously begun renovating it. This features in her plan to support the town of Glenalla.
I enjoyed Down Outback Roads and the way the author knitted a wide variety of characters together. It had lots to spark my interest along the way including the mystery surrounding the cottage Kree has a picture of from her parents belongings.
Full review here - http://wattletreelane.com/down-outbac...
I received a free advance copy of this book in exchange for an honest review
While in town talking to a local Kree notices the Cobb & Co Coach House. A Sydney Artist had previously begun renovating it. This features in her plan to support the town of Glenalla.
I enjoyed Down Outback Roads and the way the author knitted a wide variety of characters together. It had lots to spark my interest along the way including the mystery surrounding the cottage Kree has a picture of from her parents belongings.
Full review here - http://wattletreelane.com/down-outbac...
I received a free advance copy of this book in exchange for an honest review
April 16, 2014
Ewan that boy is attracted to Kree but the boy doesn't want to admit it, "sore might be an understatement, but I'll soon get used to riding again." She straightened and adjusted the dress strap that had slipped down her shoulder. "What a difference shoes make. Now I don't feel so much like a hobbit." But Ewan didn't respond. Instead he stared at the shoulder she had just returned the dress strap to." Sometimes Ewan does things so he won't be tempted by the lovely Kree, "she took a step closer to him. He jammed his hands in his jeans pockets to prevent himself from tugging her near." He knows when it's time to stand up for himself and Kree, "Ewan stood and pulled Kree to her feet. He collected his beer and noodle box before slipping an arm around her waist. "Then it's about time Mrs. Jessop realized I've only for one person, and that isn't her daughter." I wasn't in love with the book, but I didn't hate it. The read was a so-so for me.
June 8, 2015
I loved this book and found it an exciting page turning read. It is the first book by Alissa Callen I have read and I will be on the look out for others. Thank you for the signed copy which I received through a Good reads giveaway.
Set in the Australian outback the story revolves around a couple who fight against their love for one another because of perceived responsibilities to other family members.
The story begins with a community coming together to search for a young man lost while out jogging. His sister arrives from America and after her brother is found she soon sets about looking to set up a business to provide ongoing income for the small town as a way of thanking the locals.
Having a farming background I found this book fascinating as many of the issues are similar in small communities in NZ.
Great read, with a variety of strong characters, descriptive writing and some twists and turns in an interesting, solid rural story.
Set in the Australian outback the story revolves around a couple who fight against their love for one another because of perceived responsibilities to other family members.
The story begins with a community coming together to search for a young man lost while out jogging. His sister arrives from America and after her brother is found she soon sets about looking to set up a business to provide ongoing income for the small town as a way of thanking the locals.
Having a farming background I found this book fascinating as many of the issues are similar in small communities in NZ.
Great read, with a variety of strong characters, descriptive writing and some twists and turns in an interesting, solid rural story.
June 30, 2014
A moving story about a small Australian town that is down and almost out after years of drought, bad crops and too many young ones moving away but can a creative and caring big sister from America save this town like it saved her brother?
And what makes the small town of Glenalla so important to Kree anyway?
Alissa's moving story about guilt, missed changes and redemption will move you and her realistic characters and storyline will make you fall in love with Kree, Ewen, the twins and all the characters that make small town Australian life what it is. This book will bring you some smiles as well as some "I'm going to smack this character if they don't get it" moments. With just the right blend of tenderness and genuine romance this is one for all ages and Alissa leaves the 'details' up to your own imagination!
I can't wait to read more from Alissa.
And what makes the small town of Glenalla so important to Kree anyway?
Alissa's moving story about guilt, missed changes and redemption will move you and her realistic characters and storyline will make you fall in love with Kree, Ewen, the twins and all the characters that make small town Australian life what it is. This book will bring you some smiles as well as some "I'm going to smack this character if they don't get it" moments. With just the right blend of tenderness and genuine romance this is one for all ages and Alissa leaves the 'details' up to your own imagination!
I can't wait to read more from Alissa.
June 8, 2014
A charming rural romance set in outback Australia where two characters are drawn together in an emotional, challenging situation that sets them on a course of attraction that neither character can ignore.
Down Outback Roads by Alissa Callen was an impressive read with strong characters, community spirit and a story where the character's history clashes with the present bringing to surface shock and hope for Ewan and Kree's future. Each of the characters have their own dilemma's to face but the challenges and outcome make for a great read. The way each of the characters find their path in their journey in the story is written well by the Author.
Each of the characters blend well with the stories with an ending that is both a delight and pleasing to the reader.
4 Stars
*ARC Received from the Publisher for an honest review
Down Outback Roads by Alissa Callen was an impressive read with strong characters, community spirit and a story where the character's history clashes with the present bringing to surface shock and hope for Ewan and Kree's future. Each of the characters have their own dilemma's to face but the challenges and outcome make for a great read. The way each of the characters find their path in their journey in the story is written well by the Author.
Each of the characters blend well with the stories with an ending that is both a delight and pleasing to the reader.
4 Stars
*ARC Received from the Publisher for an honest review
December 18, 2014
I liked how this story developed. Australian setting in outback NSW. Interesting how people perceive rural n city to live, leave, visit. How strong a "sense of duty" is put upon us or learnt. Finance, drought, failing industry all affect people n some go bankrupt, mental stress/suicide, support from community helps which this story tells.
March 18, 2016
This the second book of Alissa Callen I have read and I like say it was just a good as the first loved it would recommend this book to friends. It is just not about the Struggle of living on farm in country it is about helping each other and coming to terms of guilt over accidents that happened in the past for both Kree and Ewan. And the family and friends helping them give their love a chance.
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