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Kookaburra Cottage
A delightful, warm and captivating rural romance from the bestselling author of Paperbark Hill.
Limestone Coast horticulturalist April Lacey is determined to lead her family's winery into the future. She dreams of opening a bed and breakfast at Lacewing Estate, but soon discovers the crumbling historic building and her father's reluctance to join the food tourism revolution are just the beginning of her uphill battle.
English winemaker Connor Jamison has travelled to South Australia's iconic wine region to learn from the experts and carve a name for himself in the industry. However, it quickly becomes clear that no matter how many miles Connor puts between himself and the accident that flipped his world, the past keeps nipping at his heels.
Can April's fresh ideas save Lacewing Estate from folding or will they be a fool's folly? And will Connor's fierce loyalty come back to haunt him?
United by cooking classes, music and an unexpected involvement in the Penwarra Country Show, April and Connor seem like the perfect match, but with old flames, new challenges and careers conspiring to keep them apart, can this pair forge their own path together?
Praise for Maya
'A rural romance to tug on the heartstrings.' - New Idea
'We can't get enough of the McIntyre sisters.' - Australian Romance Readers Association
'Linnell brings a good deal of authenticity and humour to her story ... an enjoyable tale about romance, family and dealing with change.' Canberra Weekly Magazine
'When a new Maya Linnell novel lands in the office, we pretty much draw the curtains and shut up shop until it's read.' Australian Country
Limestone Coast horticulturalist April Lacey is determined to lead her family's winery into the future. She dreams of opening a bed and breakfast at Lacewing Estate, but soon discovers the crumbling historic building and her father's reluctance to join the food tourism revolution are just the beginning of her uphill battle.
English winemaker Connor Jamison has travelled to South Australia's iconic wine region to learn from the experts and carve a name for himself in the industry. However, it quickly becomes clear that no matter how many miles Connor puts between himself and the accident that flipped his world, the past keeps nipping at his heels.
Can April's fresh ideas save Lacewing Estate from folding or will they be a fool's folly? And will Connor's fierce loyalty come back to haunt him?
United by cooking classes, music and an unexpected involvement in the Penwarra Country Show, April and Connor seem like the perfect match, but with old flames, new challenges and careers conspiring to keep them apart, can this pair forge their own path together?
Praise for Maya
'A rural romance to tug on the heartstrings.' - New Idea
'We can't get enough of the McIntyre sisters.' - Australian Romance Readers Association
'Linnell brings a good deal of authenticity and humour to her story ... an enjoyable tale about romance, family and dealing with change.' Canberra Weekly Magazine
'When a new Maya Linnell novel lands in the office, we pretty much draw the curtains and shut up shop until it's read.' Australian Country
- GenresRomance
400 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2023
18 people are currently reading
155 people want to read
About the author
Maya Linnell
8 books172 followersFrom country show baking to raising orphaned lambs, bestselling author Maya Linnell writes about the life she lives and loves. A keen bookworm, former rural journalist and radio presenter, Maya has six rural fiction titles published with Allen & Unwin - Wallaby Lane, Kookaburra Cottage, Paperbark Hill, Magpie's Bend, Bottlebrush Creek and Wildflower Ridge.
She lives with her family in rural Queensland, writes to the soundtrack of kookaburras, and relies on copious amounts of tea and chocolate to fuel her days at the keyboard.
Maya was shortlisted in the 2021, 2020 and 2019 Aus Romance Reader Association awards for categories including Favourite Australian Romance Author, Favourite Debut Author and Favourite Australian-set novel and her novels have consistently made bestseller lists and the Better Reading Top 100.
Follow Maya on Instagram @maya.linnell.writes
She lives with her family in rural Queensland, writes to the soundtrack of kookaburras, and relies on copious amounts of tea and chocolate to fuel her days at the keyboard.
Maya was shortlisted in the 2021, 2020 and 2019 Aus Romance Reader Association awards for categories including Favourite Australian Romance Author, Favourite Debut Author and Favourite Australian-set novel and her novels have consistently made bestseller lists and the Better Reading Top 100.
Follow Maya on Instagram @maya.linnell.writes
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 66 reviews
June 13, 2023
Penwarra, on the Limestone Coast of South Australia, held April Lacey's family farm - Lacewing Estate - with the winery having been in the family for decades and April had visions of bringing the winery into the future. She'd attended a conference in Adelaide for winemakers which gave her lots of fresh, new ideas. She only had to get them past her father, Lloyd, who didn't much like change. But her dream of turning the old stables into a B&B was exciting and with the builder, Gordon, on her side, she just hoped the budget wouldn't blow out.
Connor Jamison, a Brit who'd recently arrived in Australia on a two year visa, was a winemaker and keen to learn all he could. After a disastrous start in Adelaide, he joined his mate Fergus at Penwarra, hoping to find another job in the area. Fergus was Scottish and they'd become friends, but it was April who opened the door for Connor, as they needed a winemaker on Lacewing Estate. Connor was a good fit and even Lloyd and his wife Fran, appreciated his stellar work ethic. He was keen to help April with the cottage, which she'd named Kookaburra Cottage because of the raucous noise the birds made every morning, and between Gordon, Alice and Connor, it looked like her B&B business would be up and running in spring. And it was serendipitous that Connor won cooking lessons as Alice had a voucher for the same - neither of them could cook (neither could Fergus) - and Geraldine would enable the B&B to have cooked treats when guests arrived...
Another perfect read from the pen of Aussie author Maya Linnell! I loved Kookaburra Cottage with its genuine, down to earth characters, with laughter, tears and lots of family fun involved. Ten year old Archie is a special boy, full of determination and heart, while Mishka the adorable fluffy, golden retriever, was a mischievous dream. Highly recommended.
With thanks to Allen & Unwin AU for my ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
Connor Jamison, a Brit who'd recently arrived in Australia on a two year visa, was a winemaker and keen to learn all he could. After a disastrous start in Adelaide, he joined his mate Fergus at Penwarra, hoping to find another job in the area. Fergus was Scottish and they'd become friends, but it was April who opened the door for Connor, as they needed a winemaker on Lacewing Estate. Connor was a good fit and even Lloyd and his wife Fran, appreciated his stellar work ethic. He was keen to help April with the cottage, which she'd named Kookaburra Cottage because of the raucous noise the birds made every morning, and between Gordon, Alice and Connor, it looked like her B&B business would be up and running in spring. And it was serendipitous that Connor won cooking lessons as Alice had a voucher for the same - neither of them could cook (neither could Fergus) - and Geraldine would enable the B&B to have cooked treats when guests arrived...
Another perfect read from the pen of Aussie author Maya Linnell! I loved Kookaburra Cottage with its genuine, down to earth characters, with laughter, tears and lots of family fun involved. Ten year old Archie is a special boy, full of determination and heart, while Mishka the adorable fluffy, golden retriever, was a mischievous dream. Highly recommended.
With thanks to Allen & Unwin AU for my ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
May 29, 2023
I am a big fan of Maya Linnell, her stories are just so beautiful, they have awesome and very easy to love characters, they are filled with emotions, they make you smile and just feel so good and this is another fabulous read, I loved meeting April and Connor and the setting is just perfect.
April Lacey is a horticulturalist, living on the family winery on the Limestone Coast in South Australia, she has high hopes of pulling the small family winery, Lacewing Estate into the future and make it a spot on the map for tourists, her father is a bit hard to come to the party but April does not give up and starts by turning the old stable into a beautiful B&B, the first step.
Connor Jamieson is an English winemaker and has travelled to South Australia to learn as much as he can about winemaking and add his knowledge as well, he meets April at a conference and is soon working at her family winery, they work well together and make lots of plans for the future on the winery, but will that include plans for their personal future?
Connor has left behind a heartbreak that will stay with him forever and April has been hurt in a relationship before but the more time they spend together the more their feelings grow, will they be able to put their pasts behind them and look to the future or will a visit from England put a spanner in their growing relationship?
I loved this story so much, from the cooking lessons, to the cake making disasters, the fun of the Penwarra Country Show, and the other characters in the story, especially Archie he is adorable and played such a big part in the story, then there is Connor’s family via zoom, I loved them, so many people and Maya Linnell has bought them all to life in this fabulous story, as the blub says it is warm, captivating and gorgeous, it is just the thing to pick up and fall into, it is sure to fill the reader with joy, it did me.
My thanks to Allen & Unwin for my copy to read and review.
April Lacey is a horticulturalist, living on the family winery on the Limestone Coast in South Australia, she has high hopes of pulling the small family winery, Lacewing Estate into the future and make it a spot on the map for tourists, her father is a bit hard to come to the party but April does not give up and starts by turning the old stable into a beautiful B&B, the first step.
Connor Jamieson is an English winemaker and has travelled to South Australia to learn as much as he can about winemaking and add his knowledge as well, he meets April at a conference and is soon working at her family winery, they work well together and make lots of plans for the future on the winery, but will that include plans for their personal future?
Connor has left behind a heartbreak that will stay with him forever and April has been hurt in a relationship before but the more time they spend together the more their feelings grow, will they be able to put their pasts behind them and look to the future or will a visit from England put a spanner in their growing relationship?
I loved this story so much, from the cooking lessons, to the cake making disasters, the fun of the Penwarra Country Show, and the other characters in the story, especially Archie he is adorable and played such a big part in the story, then there is Connor’s family via zoom, I loved them, so many people and Maya Linnell has bought them all to life in this fabulous story, as the blub says it is warm, captivating and gorgeous, it is just the thing to pick up and fall into, it is sure to fill the reader with joy, it did me.
My thanks to Allen & Unwin for my copy to read and review.
July 5, 2023
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Kookaburra Cottage by Maya Linnell. (2023).
**Thank you to Allen & Unwin for sending me a free copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review; published 30 May 2023**
April is determined to lead her family's winery into the future, but she soon discovers the crumbling historic building and her father's reluctance is just the beginning of the uphill battle. English winemaker Connor has travelled to South Australia to learn from the wine experts. But his past is nipping at his heels. United by food, music and unexpected involvement in the local country show, April and Connor seem like the perfect match. But with old flames, new challenges and careers conspiring to keep them apart, can they forge their own path together?
This was such an easy read, I really enjoyed it. The perspectives alternate between April and Connor with both being very likeable. The two have immediate chemistry but with a few obstacles in their way with past relationship experiences causing trauma, it might not be an easy path for them to be together. I don't even drink wine but the author has painted such a pretty picture that by the end I was fantasising about staying in a little cottage on a gorgeous estate. With plenty of humorous moments (the cooking escapades gave me a laugh), this story will warm your heart.
Overall: happily and highly recommend for any readers who enjoy Australian rural romance featuring a little bit of drama.
*www.facebook.com/onewomansbbr
Kookaburra Cottage by Maya Linnell. (2023).
**Thank you to Allen & Unwin for sending me a free copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review; published 30 May 2023**
April is determined to lead her family's winery into the future, but she soon discovers the crumbling historic building and her father's reluctance is just the beginning of the uphill battle. English winemaker Connor has travelled to South Australia to learn from the wine experts. But his past is nipping at his heels. United by food, music and unexpected involvement in the local country show, April and Connor seem like the perfect match. But with old flames, new challenges and careers conspiring to keep them apart, can they forge their own path together?
This was such an easy read, I really enjoyed it. The perspectives alternate between April and Connor with both being very likeable. The two have immediate chemistry but with a few obstacles in their way with past relationship experiences causing trauma, it might not be an easy path for them to be together. I don't even drink wine but the author has painted such a pretty picture that by the end I was fantasising about staying in a little cottage on a gorgeous estate. With plenty of humorous moments (the cooking escapades gave me a laugh), this story will warm your heart.
Overall: happily and highly recommend for any readers who enjoy Australian rural romance featuring a little bit of drama.
June 8, 2023
What a beautiful book Maya Linnell 💐
I don’t read a lot of romance but there are exceptions to that and this author is one of them. Maya has a way of making you feel like you are part of her community, rubbing shoulders with these characters who steal your heart, drinking the wine and of course the baking.
Kookaburra Cottage is the story of April Lacey. Her family own and run a small vineyard called Lacewing Estate. Despite her fathers wishes, she wants to update the place and get more customers through the doors. She throws herself into this, as well as renovating an old building on the land into a bed and breakfast. Connor Jamison is in Australia from the UK to learn more about the wine industry from some of the worlds best. He is looking for a fresh start after a tragic accident that changed his whole world. When April and Connor meet sparks fly, but could they work together, and are they ready for it?
This books will make you want to visit South Australia and drink wine and eat muffins! air gave me a smile in a week that I really needed it.
Thank you Allen and Unwin and Maya for sending me this book to read.
I don’t read a lot of romance but there are exceptions to that and this author is one of them. Maya has a way of making you feel like you are part of her community, rubbing shoulders with these characters who steal your heart, drinking the wine and of course the baking.
Kookaburra Cottage is the story of April Lacey. Her family own and run a small vineyard called Lacewing Estate. Despite her fathers wishes, she wants to update the place and get more customers through the doors. She throws herself into this, as well as renovating an old building on the land into a bed and breakfast. Connor Jamison is in Australia from the UK to learn more about the wine industry from some of the worlds best. He is looking for a fresh start after a tragic accident that changed his whole world. When April and Connor meet sparks fly, but could they work together, and are they ready for it?
This books will make you want to visit South Australia and drink wine and eat muffins! air gave me a smile in a week that I really needed it.
Thank you Allen and Unwin and Maya for sending me this book to read.
May 29, 2023
Thank you Allen and Unwin for sending us a copy to read and review.
The beginning of a new series is always exciting as we are introduced to a new location, new characters, new furry friends, new story but with the same Maya mannerisms, warmth, tenderness, honesty and entertainment.
April Lacey wants to help bring the family winery up to date and renovate a cottage for guests to stay.
Connor Jamison has come from UK to the Limestone Coast in South Australia to learn from the locals.
Together sparks fly and with food and the towns people and a little interference from the past, the twosome may just be a perfect match……
Maya has a flair for bringing to the pages her own life and farm experiences.
A little bit here and little bit there that enchances your reading experience.
There’s her trademark writing style with many moments of beauty and descriptive greatness.
A thread of romance, a dose of country living, much community spirit, likeable relationships, aromatic food, family melodrama and great big storyline of delight.
We have been with Maya from the start and now it’s like coming home when reading her books and they come to life with feeling and heart.
I look forward to see what direction Maya goes next in the series.
The beginning of a new series is always exciting as we are introduced to a new location, new characters, new furry friends, new story but with the same Maya mannerisms, warmth, tenderness, honesty and entertainment.
April Lacey wants to help bring the family winery up to date and renovate a cottage for guests to stay.
Connor Jamison has come from UK to the Limestone Coast in South Australia to learn from the locals.
Together sparks fly and with food and the towns people and a little interference from the past, the twosome may just be a perfect match……
Maya has a flair for bringing to the pages her own life and farm experiences.
A little bit here and little bit there that enchances your reading experience.
There’s her trademark writing style with many moments of beauty and descriptive greatness.
A thread of romance, a dose of country living, much community spirit, likeable relationships, aromatic food, family melodrama and great big storyline of delight.
We have been with Maya from the start and now it’s like coming home when reading her books and they come to life with feeling and heart.
I look forward to see what direction Maya goes next in the series.
June 7, 2023
⭐️4 Stars⭐️
It’s always a delight to read a Maya Linnell novel where you can feel yourself become immersed in the country lifestyle. The setting is the beautiful Limestone Coast in South Australia and this is the first book of a new series.
Kookaburra Cottage is filled with charming characters and a wonderful community spirit you often find in small rural townships.
April Lacey is determined to present her fresh ideas to update the family winery to her father although she has his reluctance to battle. First impressions weren’t a priority for Lloyd Lacey although sadly the frontage of the winery was looking a bit tired and the business was starting to fade. Renovating the old barn into a B&B is another part of April’s plan to improve business.
English winemaker Connor Jamison has travelled from the UK to Australia on a two year work visa to learn from the local winemaking experts, he also has a mysterious past.
If you love cookery, wine, music, country shows and a rural vibe you’ll feel right at home with this warm and wonderful tale, I could almost smell the quiches and muffins cooking! There’s a romance brewing and I loved the shenanigans of the country characters, such a heart-warming read.
Publication Date 30 May 2023
Publisher Allen & Unwin
Thank you so much Allen & Unwin for a copy of the book.
It’s always a delight to read a Maya Linnell novel where you can feel yourself become immersed in the country lifestyle. The setting is the beautiful Limestone Coast in South Australia and this is the first book of a new series.
Kookaburra Cottage is filled with charming characters and a wonderful community spirit you often find in small rural townships.
April Lacey is determined to present her fresh ideas to update the family winery to her father although she has his reluctance to battle. First impressions weren’t a priority for Lloyd Lacey although sadly the frontage of the winery was looking a bit tired and the business was starting to fade. Renovating the old barn into a B&B is another part of April’s plan to improve business.
English winemaker Connor Jamison has travelled from the UK to Australia on a two year work visa to learn from the local winemaking experts, he also has a mysterious past.
If you love cookery, wine, music, country shows and a rural vibe you’ll feel right at home with this warm and wonderful tale, I could almost smell the quiches and muffins cooking! There’s a romance brewing and I loved the shenanigans of the country characters, such a heart-warming read.
Publication Date 30 May 2023
Publisher Allen & Unwin
Thank you so much Allen & Unwin for a copy of the book.
May 30, 2023
Happy Publication Day 🌷
After reading The McIntyre Sister series by Maya and loving all four books, I was waiting in anticipation for what Maya had in store next!
If you are a lover of the warmth of a rural community, the fresh smells of baking and the taste of fine wine, this will be a treat for you!
Set on the Limestone Coast (where Maya actually grew up) you will find Horticulturalist, April Lacey who has a dream of opening a B&B at her family's winery, Lacewing Estate but there is a couple of obstacles making it a bit of a battle, her dad being one of them!
Connor Jamison is an English winemaker who travelled to the wine region of South Australia to learn from the experts and hopefully make a name for himself in the industry and also to try free himself of his past but it seems his past just won't let go!
When April and Connor meet, sparks fly between them but with old emotional history attached to both of them and the understanding that Connor will eventually be going home, they are reluctant to let their feelings be known. A mixture of other situations also conspire against them being together but can love be enough to find its way through all of the obstacles put before them?
Pick up a copy of Kookaburra Cottage to find out!
As always with Maya’s books, there was so much to enjoy in this story. I often feel like I'm a country girl by heart and when I read Maya’s books I'm inclined to really believe it! I am swept up in the pages like I'm one of the characters!
Biggest thanks to the lovely team @allenandunwin for the #gifted review copy
After reading The McIntyre Sister series by Maya and loving all four books, I was waiting in anticipation for what Maya had in store next!
If you are a lover of the warmth of a rural community, the fresh smells of baking and the taste of fine wine, this will be a treat for you!
Set on the Limestone Coast (where Maya actually grew up) you will find Horticulturalist, April Lacey who has a dream of opening a B&B at her family's winery, Lacewing Estate but there is a couple of obstacles making it a bit of a battle, her dad being one of them!
Connor Jamison is an English winemaker who travelled to the wine region of South Australia to learn from the experts and hopefully make a name for himself in the industry and also to try free himself of his past but it seems his past just won't let go!
When April and Connor meet, sparks fly between them but with old emotional history attached to both of them and the understanding that Connor will eventually be going home, they are reluctant to let their feelings be known. A mixture of other situations also conspire against them being together but can love be enough to find its way through all of the obstacles put before them?
Pick up a copy of Kookaburra Cottage to find out!
As always with Maya’s books, there was so much to enjoy in this story. I often feel like I'm a country girl by heart and when I read Maya’s books I'm inclined to really believe it! I am swept up in the pages like I'm one of the characters!
Biggest thanks to the lovely team @allenandunwin for the #gifted review copy
May 31, 2023
Publication week for Kookaburra Cottage by Australian author Maya Linnell.
As an Aussie I’ve yet to venture to South Australia, but I can say I’ve been there in spirit with Maya’s books, particularly this one. Kookaburra Cottage tells the story of the Lacey family, a family of winemakers, and centres on April who is wanting to take the winery in a different direction, focusing on tourism through a renovated B&B. In the course of her research she meets Connor from the UK who initially starts at another winery, but after a period of time comes to work for her father. Connor and April forms relationship but it’s not all smooth sailing against the rural backdrop of country shows, baking, piano lessons, and baked dinners at the golf club. Connor’s reasons for travelling to Australia threaten to ruin his and April’s chance at happiness.
Maya Linnell is the queen of rural romantic fiction. Her books are transportive, and the romance isn’t just in relation to the love stories she writes, but the romantic notions of all things rural and country whilst still managing to depict the harsh realities of families dependent on the land. I always enjoy Maya’s stories as a welcome change of pace and they always serve as a reminder of what’s important in life. Feel good stories so bittersweet that really make me want to step out and see all our beautiful country has to offer.
Thanks Maya and Allen and Unwin for sending me Kookaburra Cottage.
As an Aussie I’ve yet to venture to South Australia, but I can say I’ve been there in spirit with Maya’s books, particularly this one. Kookaburra Cottage tells the story of the Lacey family, a family of winemakers, and centres on April who is wanting to take the winery in a different direction, focusing on tourism through a renovated B&B. In the course of her research she meets Connor from the UK who initially starts at another winery, but after a period of time comes to work for her father. Connor and April forms relationship but it’s not all smooth sailing against the rural backdrop of country shows, baking, piano lessons, and baked dinners at the golf club. Connor’s reasons for travelling to Australia threaten to ruin his and April’s chance at happiness.
Maya Linnell is the queen of rural romantic fiction. Her books are transportive, and the romance isn’t just in relation to the love stories she writes, but the romantic notions of all things rural and country whilst still managing to depict the harsh realities of families dependent on the land. I always enjoy Maya’s stories as a welcome change of pace and they always serve as a reminder of what’s important in life. Feel good stories so bittersweet that really make me want to step out and see all our beautiful country has to offer.
Thanks Maya and Allen and Unwin for sending me Kookaburra Cottage.
June 11, 2023
There are many reasons why I read, but mostly I read for pleasure. I want escapism and joy in my reading and for happiness-inducing reads such as this, it’s hard to go past books by Maya Linnell.
Maya always has me believing I could live in the country - I could not, but the temptation to chase a rural life is always so strong after reading her stories!
Maya’s latest, KOOKABURRA COTTAGE is the perfect tonic for anyone yearning for some joy, some love & some community in their reading. It’s my favourite of her books so far!
I adored everything about this book. The renovation of a small BnB on a winery had me yearning for a holiday. Following our main characters, April and Connor, as they discovered the joy of cooking had me wishing I could enjoy their meals (and also pondering if Maya had difficulty writing about characters who can’t cook, because if you follow her Instagram you’ll know she’s an incredible baker!). The romance dotted with complications such as geography and baggage from the past had me swooning and hoping for a happily ever after for April and Connor.
KOOKABURRA COTTAGE offered a few surprising twists, which added great depth to the story & had me further ensconced in life on the Limestone Coast. It also gave me pub dinners, a country show, escape artist animals and a fantastic cast of characters to love.
When I finished KOOKABURRA COTTAGE, I immediately wanted to go back to Lacewing Estate. I savoured every page!
I received a gifted copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
Maya always has me believing I could live in the country - I could not, but the temptation to chase a rural life is always so strong after reading her stories!
Maya’s latest, KOOKABURRA COTTAGE is the perfect tonic for anyone yearning for some joy, some love & some community in their reading. It’s my favourite of her books so far!
I adored everything about this book. The renovation of a small BnB on a winery had me yearning for a holiday. Following our main characters, April and Connor, as they discovered the joy of cooking had me wishing I could enjoy their meals (and also pondering if Maya had difficulty writing about characters who can’t cook, because if you follow her Instagram you’ll know she’s an incredible baker!). The romance dotted with complications such as geography and baggage from the past had me swooning and hoping for a happily ever after for April and Connor.
KOOKABURRA COTTAGE offered a few surprising twists, which added great depth to the story & had me further ensconced in life on the Limestone Coast. It also gave me pub dinners, a country show, escape artist animals and a fantastic cast of characters to love.
When I finished KOOKABURRA COTTAGE, I immediately wanted to go back to Lacewing Estate. I savoured every page!
I received a gifted copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
October 4, 2023
Kookaburra Cottage by Aussie author Maya Linnell is a compelling story about friendship and love. This author is fast becoming another favourite author of mine and every time I discover she has a new book coming out I can’t wait to read it. Enjoyable and relatable characters and a storyline that takes you on a journey unlike any other. I loved this book and have no hesitation in recommending it.
December 29, 2024
Kookaburra Cottage is set in the wine region of rural South Australia. I love that Maya Linnell showcases different types of agriculture in her books, such as wineries, horticulture and floriculture.
April Lacey is a horticulturist and her produce wins many awards at the local Penwarra Show each year. Her father owns and runs the Lacewing Estate winery.
April hopes to bring the tired looking winery up to date but is facing resistance from her father. She decides to start on the old cottage turning it into a B&B.
Connor Jamison has arrived from England to learn all he can from Australian wine makers and secures a job at Lacewing Estate.
Kookaburra Cottage is a gorgeous heart-warming story filled with the most fabulous characters. I loved the fun of the baking disasters and the cooking classes taken by April and Connor. The lead up to the Penwarra Show and all the events of the day were a delightful part of the story.
There are ups and downs for April and Connor to work through and a disastrous event that has everyone pitching in to help out.
Both April and Connor have old hurts to overcome. Can they let go of their past to start over again?
Kookaburra Cottage is a heart-warming story filled with sweet country charm, perfect to sit back, relax and immerse yourself in rural South Australia's wine country.
Kookaburra Cottage would have to be my favourite of all Maya Linnell's novels.
April Lacey is a horticulturist and her produce wins many awards at the local Penwarra Show each year. Her father owns and runs the Lacewing Estate winery.
April hopes to bring the tired looking winery up to date but is facing resistance from her father. She decides to start on the old cottage turning it into a B&B.
Connor Jamison has arrived from England to learn all he can from Australian wine makers and secures a job at Lacewing Estate.
Kookaburra Cottage is a gorgeous heart-warming story filled with the most fabulous characters. I loved the fun of the baking disasters and the cooking classes taken by April and Connor. The lead up to the Penwarra Show and all the events of the day were a delightful part of the story.
There are ups and downs for April and Connor to work through and a disastrous event that has everyone pitching in to help out.
Both April and Connor have old hurts to overcome. Can they let go of their past to start over again?
Kookaburra Cottage is a heart-warming story filled with sweet country charm, perfect to sit back, relax and immerse yourself in rural South Australia's wine country.
Kookaburra Cottage would have to be my favourite of all Maya Linnell's novels.
August 30, 2023
Loved this book. And cannot wait for the next one by Maya. Fabulous Author.
Read
June 13, 2023Looking forward to interviewing Maya at Brighton Library on June 28th about this warm-hearted rural romance.
Connor, the hero, is divine, and April is a strong-willed heroine.
Great cast of secondary characters too!
Connor, the hero, is divine, and April is a strong-willed heroine.
Great cast of secondary characters too!
May 10, 2023
Another stunning tale that tugged the heartstrings, and I have to say I absolutely adored the McIntyres cameo
September 7, 2023
It's time to meet a brand new cast of characters in Maya's latest, Kookaburra Cottage.
Set in the iconic South Australian wine region, we are introduced to horticulturist April Lacey. The family winery, Lacewing Estate holds a dear place in her heart, and she's planning to place it on the tourism map. This includes renovating the old horse stables to create a bed and breakfast for welcome guests.
Still, to reach these dreams, April will have to meet the many challenges that stand in her way. With a Dad to convince, sticking to a tight budget and learning new skills to efficiently run a business, April has a whole heap on her plate. There's no need or time to think about a new relationship: especially after a broken heart.
Then English winemaker and general nice guy Connor Jamison steps into her world. The English winemaker and general nice guy is immediately enamoured with April and is happy to be just a friend .. but he's in DEEP. The pair have so much in common and are perfect for another- but the ex fiancee back home may throw a wrench into the works!
I absolutely adored this sweet friends to lovers rural romance. Matchmaking Jean is a hoot and cooking Queen Geraldine is such a treasure. Young Archie, his lambs and April's doggo Mishka provide so much humour, mischief and around fluffiness. Oh, Fergus and Lauren too!! Please let the Scot and the bestie have their own stories, because it's NEEDED.
Those salivating mentions of home baked treats though... Excluding those first attempted cakes of course!
Also... Did I spot a little nod to two of my favourite fellow bookstagrammers among the pages? 😉
4.75 🌟
Set in the iconic South Australian wine region, we are introduced to horticulturist April Lacey. The family winery, Lacewing Estate holds a dear place in her heart, and she's planning to place it on the tourism map. This includes renovating the old horse stables to create a bed and breakfast for welcome guests.
Still, to reach these dreams, April will have to meet the many challenges that stand in her way. With a Dad to convince, sticking to a tight budget and learning new skills to efficiently run a business, April has a whole heap on her plate. There's no need or time to think about a new relationship: especially after a broken heart.
Then English winemaker and general nice guy Connor Jamison steps into her world. The English winemaker and general nice guy is immediately enamoured with April and is happy to be just a friend .. but he's in DEEP. The pair have so much in common and are perfect for another- but the ex fiancee back home may throw a wrench into the works!
I absolutely adored this sweet friends to lovers rural romance. Matchmaking Jean is a hoot and cooking Queen Geraldine is such a treasure. Young Archie, his lambs and April's doggo Mishka provide so much humour, mischief and around fluffiness. Oh, Fergus and Lauren too!! Please let the Scot and the bestie have their own stories, because it's NEEDED.
Those salivating mentions of home baked treats though... Excluding those first attempted cakes of course!
Also... Did I spot a little nod to two of my favourite fellow bookstagrammers among the pages? 😉
4.75 🌟
March 23, 2024
Kookaburra Cottage is a fantastic rural romance by excellent Australian author Maya Linnell. Horticulturalist April Lacey wants to save her family's wine company on the beautiful Limestone Coast. She dreams of setting a bed and breakfast and participating in the Lacewing Estate's food revolution. However, her father is reluctant to come on board, but she will show him that he needs to come to save Lacewing Estate. Winemaker Connor Jamison moved to Australia to learn more about the wine industry. A friendship started when April and Connor became involved in beginners' cooking classes at the local golf club. The readers of Kookaburra Cottage will continue to follow Connor Jamison and April Lacey to discover what happens.
I enjoy books by Maya Linnell and Kookaburra Cottage, which keep up the tradition. I was so excited to start reading this book, and I engaged with the story from the first page and continued to the end. I love Maya Linnell's portrayal of her characters and how they intertwine throughout this book. Kookaburra Cottage was well-written and researched by Maya Linnell. I like Maya Linnell's description of the settings of Kookaburra Cottage, which allowed me to imagine being part of the book's plot.
The readers of Kookaburra Cottage will learn about the role and importance of a winemaker at a winery and the importance of rural community show days.
Thank you to the author and publisher for my ARC copy of Kookaburra Cottage in exchange for an honest review. I recommend this book.
I enjoy books by Maya Linnell and Kookaburra Cottage, which keep up the tradition. I was so excited to start reading this book, and I engaged with the story from the first page and continued to the end. I love Maya Linnell's portrayal of her characters and how they intertwine throughout this book. Kookaburra Cottage was well-written and researched by Maya Linnell. I like Maya Linnell's description of the settings of Kookaburra Cottage, which allowed me to imagine being part of the book's plot.
The readers of Kookaburra Cottage will learn about the role and importance of a winemaker at a winery and the importance of rural community show days.
Thank you to the author and publisher for my ARC copy of Kookaburra Cottage in exchange for an honest review. I recommend this book.
May 15, 2023
I got to read an early copy of Kookaburra Cottage and just feel like the luckiest. I love Maya Linnell’s rural stories and was just itching for Kookaburra Cottage. April Lacey; with all her determination, green thumbs, and can do attitude was just gorgeous. I was just as smitten with Connor who ‘would rather listen to Beethoven then the beastie boys’. I love this story. I know now to expect to want to move to the country as soon as I open a new Maya Linnell and goodness, did I get those feels again, but now specifically it’s a winery I want; (although it does sound never ending)…what an armchair travel I’ve had, it was such a lovely escape. I also got to vicariously win so many ribbons at agriculture shows. I’ve only ever done the Sydney Easter Show a few times. Archie’s lambs, the tortoises, and mishka were so much fun. This was such a perfect read, I loved my time in the limestone coast. Thank you Allen and Unwin!
July 22, 2023
It is a beautiful story set in a winery at the Limestone Coast.
April wants to join the food tourism revolution, but her father wants her to be more interested in the winery side. After a bad relationship breakup, April throws all her energy into getting her B&B ready.
Along comes Connor, an English winemaker running away from his own problems back home. He is on a two year visiting visa, sourcing work at a winery and teaching kids piano.
April and Connor meet through cooking classes and music and working in the winery.
Can Connor move past his last relationship and can Alice trust again in love.
Always love escaping into one of your books 📚 ❤️. Thoroughly enjoyed.
April wants to join the food tourism revolution, but her father wants her to be more interested in the winery side. After a bad relationship breakup, April throws all her energy into getting her B&B ready.
Along comes Connor, an English winemaker running away from his own problems back home. He is on a two year visiting visa, sourcing work at a winery and teaching kids piano.
April and Connor meet through cooking classes and music and working in the winery.
Can Connor move past his last relationship and can Alice trust again in love.
Always love escaping into one of your books 📚 ❤️. Thoroughly enjoyed.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 4, 2023
Maya Linnell’s new novel Kookaburra Cottage is a feast for rural romance fiction lovers. This novel takes us on a fresh journey with new characters in a new location. Her successful previous four novels were about the McIntyre sisters who lived in the western districts of Victoria (where Maya herself has lived). This time her new lead character, April Lacey, resides in Maya’s home state of South Australia on the Limestone Coast. South Australia is well-known for its world renowned wines. So, a vineyard is a perfect setting for Maya’s new book. It sheds a spotlight on the hardworking winery families and the beautiful terra rossa soil found in southeast SA (in the Coonawarra region) that delivers such a glowing produce. We get a clear picture of what it is like to live and work on a vineyard, along with a taste of other horticultural activities and agricultural shows.
As always with Maya, she draws upon her vast country living experiences. Topics of cooking and growing food abound on these pages (cooking classes included). Tourism also comes into play as April dreams of restoring a crumbling historic building on her family’s property which she names Kookaburra Cottage. It is a lot of hard work but with the help of a few hands, April turns this place into an attractive accommodation. Then she applies to DestinationSA with hopes to receive help for her family’s business and bring their winery into the future.
Music also takes a front row in this novel which is appropriate as music and wine are a great combination! Here enters an English winemaker Connor Jamison (also a musician) who has landed in Australia and travelled to SA to learn from the experts (renowned around the world). That alone is a good reason to come here for sure. But Connor has some secrets. Although he is on a two year visa to learn how to make better wine, there may also be personal issues of why he is here. Is he running from a troubled past or just wanting to make a fresh start? Outside his interest in winemaking, maybe he craves some distance to heal his hurts. But since solutions to life’s problems are never that easy, it becomes apparent he can never completely escape the past and it may turn up when least expected. And, of course, it does!
There is a good community spirit in this novel and a lovely flow between April and Conner. They work well together and, yes, they gradually draw close. They each have had past relationship issues so trust is a big focus. It was lovely to watch these two connect, coming from different worlds. And to see how they manage all the obstacles that confront them.
Little Archie is also a delight and seeing his excitement in growing things made my heart sing. But watching him try to please his parent by playing the piano perfectly was heartbreaking. This kind of pressure from parents is too often a reality. Sometimes music or a specific instrument is not the right thing for a child. Something I can appreciate. I am musical and learning to play was easy for me (it runs in my family) but I have seen other children suffer terribly trying to learn something that is not their interest or is unnatural to them. There are so many other things a child can do! Like growing vegetables, fruit and plants. Archie is a prime example! He just oozes joy and contentment working in a garden. I am sure Maya has taken some warm inspiration from her own children. Also she draws upon her hobby farm with the inclusion of adorable Houdini-like lambs! And Connor’s hometown Derby in England is a nod to her mom’s English heritage. There’s a whole lot of Maya’isms in this novel that make it even more special for she draws up her own experiences.
In summary, Kookaburra Cottage is a solid story with lots of country magic and charm. Yes, Maya is still the queen of rural romance fiction! She dishes up heaps of tasty treats and a large dollop of homespun honesty, love and passion. Family and friends are always at the centre of her stories. And respect for the land they work and live on. A heartfelt delivery every time. 4.5 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
Thanks to Allen & Unwin for my review copy.
As always with Maya, she draws upon her vast country living experiences. Topics of cooking and growing food abound on these pages (cooking classes included). Tourism also comes into play as April dreams of restoring a crumbling historic building on her family’s property which she names Kookaburra Cottage. It is a lot of hard work but with the help of a few hands, April turns this place into an attractive accommodation. Then she applies to DestinationSA with hopes to receive help for her family’s business and bring their winery into the future.
Music also takes a front row in this novel which is appropriate as music and wine are a great combination! Here enters an English winemaker Connor Jamison (also a musician) who has landed in Australia and travelled to SA to learn from the experts (renowned around the world). That alone is a good reason to come here for sure. But Connor has some secrets. Although he is on a two year visa to learn how to make better wine, there may also be personal issues of why he is here. Is he running from a troubled past or just wanting to make a fresh start? Outside his interest in winemaking, maybe he craves some distance to heal his hurts. But since solutions to life’s problems are never that easy, it becomes apparent he can never completely escape the past and it may turn up when least expected. And, of course, it does!
There is a good community spirit in this novel and a lovely flow between April and Conner. They work well together and, yes, they gradually draw close. They each have had past relationship issues so trust is a big focus. It was lovely to watch these two connect, coming from different worlds. And to see how they manage all the obstacles that confront them.
Little Archie is also a delight and seeing his excitement in growing things made my heart sing. But watching him try to please his parent by playing the piano perfectly was heartbreaking. This kind of pressure from parents is too often a reality. Sometimes music or a specific instrument is not the right thing for a child. Something I can appreciate. I am musical and learning to play was easy for me (it runs in my family) but I have seen other children suffer terribly trying to learn something that is not their interest or is unnatural to them. There are so many other things a child can do! Like growing vegetables, fruit and plants. Archie is a prime example! He just oozes joy and contentment working in a garden. I am sure Maya has taken some warm inspiration from her own children. Also she draws upon her hobby farm with the inclusion of adorable Houdini-like lambs! And Connor’s hometown Derby in England is a nod to her mom’s English heritage. There’s a whole lot of Maya’isms in this novel that make it even more special for she draws up her own experiences.
In summary, Kookaburra Cottage is a solid story with lots of country magic and charm. Yes, Maya is still the queen of rural romance fiction! She dishes up heaps of tasty treats and a large dollop of homespun honesty, love and passion. Family and friends are always at the centre of her stories. And respect for the land they work and live on. A heartfelt delivery every time. 4.5 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
Thanks to Allen & Unwin for my review copy.
June 5, 2023
A new Maya Linnell book is such a treat – I’d had a pretty busy week away at a reading convention and then had to rush in some assessments that were due so when that was done, I picked this up and settled down because I knew it was going to be the sort of read that would be like a reward.
Maya Linnell’s previous books were set in Victoria but we move to South Australia for this one (fun fact: I visited that state for the first time just before picking up this book) and to the beautiful Limestone Coast and April Lacey, daughter of a winemaker. April herself isn’t destined for the winemaking business, much to her father’s dismay but she wants to contribute. She has grand plans to renovate the stables on the family property as a boutique accommodation option and is looking for other ways to drag the family business into events that would showcase its intimate atmosphere. At an event in Adelaide she meets Connor Jamison, from England on a 2yr visa to learn from Australian winemakers. It’s a brief interaction but there are some vibes and when Connor’s first job in Australia doesn’t work out, he finds himself travelling to link up with one of the others that were a part of his program – and there he finds April, as it’s her local area.
April is a horticulturalist who also grows vegetables at home (and competes in local shows) as well as mentoring a young neighbour in helping him start his own garden. When the local show is in a bit of trouble, she is signed up to also enter something in the baking category. April absolutely cannot cook and I really enjoyed hearing about both her and Connor’s journey with learning to master basic cooking skills. You don’t often see a lot of that in books, cooking is a skill that can pass people by quite easily. I myself am not a good cook – I can basically feed myself if I have to but I don’t enjoy it and I couldn’t really cook anything complex. Both April and Connor end up in a local cooking glass, which teaches not only basic skills but also simple recipes that are easily transferrable and versatile such as quiche, muffins, etc.
April and Connor have great chemistry and this read feels gentle and slow (in wonderful ways) even though Connor does have a bit of trauma in his past, which comes out over the course of the story. Maya Linnell also gives readers a cute cameo of the extended family from her previous four books and there are opportunities abounds here to return to this area and detail more stories with other locals who could feature as main characters. Even though she’s not a local, I personally would love to see a character who appeared briefly towards the end get her own story as I feel she very much deserves happiness. I appreciate the path Linnell chose to take with her as well, in terms of her arrival and how it played out.
I loved the community and all the characters we got to meet, I loved the inclusion of food (the growing it, the preparing it and the eating of it) as well as the inclusion of briefly, the struggles of family and small winemakers and how diversification is probably the future.
A lovely, comforting read but still with some difficult topics and a wonderful romance.
***A copy of this book was provided by the publisher for the purpose of an honest review***
Maya Linnell’s previous books were set in Victoria but we move to South Australia for this one (fun fact: I visited that state for the first time just before picking up this book) and to the beautiful Limestone Coast and April Lacey, daughter of a winemaker. April herself isn’t destined for the winemaking business, much to her father’s dismay but she wants to contribute. She has grand plans to renovate the stables on the family property as a boutique accommodation option and is looking for other ways to drag the family business into events that would showcase its intimate atmosphere. At an event in Adelaide she meets Connor Jamison, from England on a 2yr visa to learn from Australian winemakers. It’s a brief interaction but there are some vibes and when Connor’s first job in Australia doesn’t work out, he finds himself travelling to link up with one of the others that were a part of his program – and there he finds April, as it’s her local area.
April is a horticulturalist who also grows vegetables at home (and competes in local shows) as well as mentoring a young neighbour in helping him start his own garden. When the local show is in a bit of trouble, she is signed up to also enter something in the baking category. April absolutely cannot cook and I really enjoyed hearing about both her and Connor’s journey with learning to master basic cooking skills. You don’t often see a lot of that in books, cooking is a skill that can pass people by quite easily. I myself am not a good cook – I can basically feed myself if I have to but I don’t enjoy it and I couldn’t really cook anything complex. Both April and Connor end up in a local cooking glass, which teaches not only basic skills but also simple recipes that are easily transferrable and versatile such as quiche, muffins, etc.
April and Connor have great chemistry and this read feels gentle and slow (in wonderful ways) even though Connor does have a bit of trauma in his past, which comes out over the course of the story. Maya Linnell also gives readers a cute cameo of the extended family from her previous four books and there are opportunities abounds here to return to this area and detail more stories with other locals who could feature as main characters. Even though she’s not a local, I personally would love to see a character who appeared briefly towards the end get her own story as I feel she very much deserves happiness. I appreciate the path Linnell chose to take with her as well, in terms of her arrival and how it played out.
I loved the community and all the characters we got to meet, I loved the inclusion of food (the growing it, the preparing it and the eating of it) as well as the inclusion of briefly, the struggles of family and small winemakers and how diversification is probably the future.
A lovely, comforting read but still with some difficult topics and a wonderful romance.
***A copy of this book was provided by the publisher for the purpose of an honest review***
June 12, 2023
Limestone Coast, South Australia: April Lacey is a horticulturalist and lives in a winemaker's cottage on her family's Lacewing Estate winery. Her dream is to convert the old stables on the property into a cosy B and B.
Connor Jamison, a winemaker from England , is in Australia to learn what he can from Australian winemaker's as he has done during visits to other winemaking areas in other countries. His is a life that is marred by a tragedy some years before.
Connor and April first meet at a wine conference in Adelaide before Connor makes his way to Lacewing Estate winery.
This is a story of country where townsfolk lookout for easy other.
After reading and loving Maya's stories about the four McIntyre sisters, it is a joy now to be in a different State with a delightful group of new characters. Apart from the adults in this story, there are some very delightful children and their pets. I particularly enjoyed Archie and his lambs!
Thank you once again Maya, this new story is a delight and I hope we see these characters again in future stories. I have to say that I loved the
cameo of the McIntyre sisters within the pages.
Connor Jamison, a winemaker from England , is in Australia to learn what he can from Australian winemaker's as he has done during visits to other winemaking areas in other countries. His is a life that is marred by a tragedy some years before.
Connor and April first meet at a wine conference in Adelaide before Connor makes his way to Lacewing Estate winery.
This is a story of country where townsfolk lookout for easy other.
After reading and loving Maya's stories about the four McIntyre sisters, it is a joy now to be in a different State with a delightful group of new characters. Apart from the adults in this story, there are some very delightful children and their pets. I particularly enjoyed Archie and his lambs!
Thank you once again Maya, this new story is a delight and I hope we see these characters again in future stories. I have to say that I loved the
cameo of the McIntyre sisters within the pages.
June 9, 2023
I always look forward to reading the latest novel by Maya Linnell and Kookaburra Cottage is no exception! After living with the McIntyre sisters for the previous 4 books, we head off to one of my favourite locations - the Coonawarra region of South Australia where we meet April who is determined to convert part of her property into a bespoke B & B at her family winery. She has no interest in running the family business yet and is determined to lift the profile of the winery and create business for her B&B.
She travels to Adelaide to attend a workshop where she meets Connor who is on a visa to work in local wineries to gain experience in Australia. He ends up working for April’s father. Romance ensues but he is hiding a broken engagement back home in the UK,
This was such a lovely book to read and Maya has done a lot of research into the wine growing process as well as lots of baking, vegetable growing, country shows and community. I loved the cameo role of her previous novels and also acknowledging well known book reviewers, so clever!
Thank you to Allen & Unwin for the copy of this book for review purposes. I eagerly await which minor characters will get their own story next time! Well done Maya.
She travels to Adelaide to attend a workshop where she meets Connor who is on a visa to work in local wineries to gain experience in Australia. He ends up working for April’s father. Romance ensues but he is hiding a broken engagement back home in the UK,
This was such a lovely book to read and Maya has done a lot of research into the wine growing process as well as lots of baking, vegetable growing, country shows and community. I loved the cameo role of her previous novels and also acknowledging well known book reviewers, so clever!
Thank you to Allen & Unwin for the copy of this book for review purposes. I eagerly await which minor characters will get their own story next time! Well done Maya.
September 12, 2023
Beautiful descriptions of country Australia. A vanilla romance, sweet, innocent and easy to read. This book had a little more drama than the last one I read.
April Lacey wants to update her family’s winery and does so with the help of wine maker exchange Connor. However Connor’s past will shake their budding relationship.
A low stakes romance with a comfortably predictable plot. The writing style is beautiful and creates a vivid picture of small town life.
I would love to have seen more multicultural characters.
April Lacey wants to update her family’s winery and does so with the help of wine maker exchange Connor. However Connor’s past will shake their budding relationship.
A low stakes romance with a comfortably predictable plot. The writing style is beautiful and creates a vivid picture of small town life.
I would love to have seen more multicultural characters.
June 6, 2023
April Lacey is determined to lead her family's Limestone Coast winery into the future, but soon discovers the crumbling historic building and her father's reluctance to join the food tourism revolution are just the beginning of her uphill battle.
English winemaker Connor Jamison has travelled to South Australia's iconic wine region to learn from the experts and carve a name for himself in the industry. However, it quickly becomes clear that Connor's past continues to nip at his heels.
United by food, music and an unexpected involvement in the Penwarra Country Show, April and Connor seem like the perfect match, but with old flames, new challenges and careers conspiring to keep them apart, can this pair forge their own path together?
A beautiful story set in the lovely wine growing region of South Australia - another wonderful Australian Rural Fiction novel by Maya. “Kookaburra Cottage” is a thoroughly enjoyable read that I could not put down. You will love the twists, the turns and the support of a small country community. For people like myself who have loved Maya’s previous books, this one will not be disappointed! You will fall in love with April, Connor, Archie, Lauren, Fergus and all the wonderful residents of Penwarra - I cannot wait for the next chapter!
Many thanks Maya 🍇🍷🍇🍷
English winemaker Connor Jamison has travelled to South Australia's iconic wine region to learn from the experts and carve a name for himself in the industry. However, it quickly becomes clear that Connor's past continues to nip at his heels.
United by food, music and an unexpected involvement in the Penwarra Country Show, April and Connor seem like the perfect match, but with old flames, new challenges and careers conspiring to keep them apart, can this pair forge their own path together?
A beautiful story set in the lovely wine growing region of South Australia - another wonderful Australian Rural Fiction novel by Maya. “Kookaburra Cottage” is a thoroughly enjoyable read that I could not put down. You will love the twists, the turns and the support of a small country community. For people like myself who have loved Maya’s previous books, this one will not be disappointed! You will fall in love with April, Connor, Archie, Lauren, Fergus and all the wonderful residents of Penwarra - I cannot wait for the next chapter!
Many thanks Maya 🍇🍷🍇🍷
May 23, 2024
A tad cringey. Read for the Ruby Romance Awards.
May 30, 2023
Kookaburra Cottage was such a joy to read, I would read it at night before going to sleep and I must say there were some mornings I’d wake from some beautiful country inspired dreams. I think if I could move into the AirBnB from the story I would, the setting had me absolutely captivated. I just love it when you read a book and you can picture the location so vividly, don’t you?
You can tell the setting was based on somewhere close to Maya’s heart as I couldn’t help but feel love for the location.
This story has all the rural small town vibes going on.
✅ Dinners at the golf club.
✅ A traditional country show.
✅ Close knit community.
✅ Generations working the land.
There is just something about small towns / country communities that you just can’t find in bigger towns / cities and Maya translates it perfectly on paper.
I have to admit I was a little sad last year when I read the final book in the McIntyre Sisters series but I shouldn’t have worried as Alice & Connor’s story was just as wonderful.
I really enjoyed their love story, and just like all good romances the path to love isn’t always a smooth one.
This book is filled with wonderful characters both human and of the animal kind. I loved the names given to a couple of animals that caused a bit of havoc. I actually read their names and giggled saying them out loud and laughing “oh my goodness, get it”
If you love all things with a big heart you are going to love Kookaburra Cottage.
You can tell the setting was based on somewhere close to Maya’s heart as I couldn’t help but feel love for the location.
This story has all the rural small town vibes going on.
✅ Dinners at the golf club.
✅ A traditional country show.
✅ Close knit community.
✅ Generations working the land.
There is just something about small towns / country communities that you just can’t find in bigger towns / cities and Maya translates it perfectly on paper.
I have to admit I was a little sad last year when I read the final book in the McIntyre Sisters series but I shouldn’t have worried as Alice & Connor’s story was just as wonderful.
I really enjoyed their love story, and just like all good romances the path to love isn’t always a smooth one.
This book is filled with wonderful characters both human and of the animal kind. I loved the names given to a couple of animals that caused a bit of havoc. I actually read their names and giggled saying them out loud and laughing “oh my goodness, get it”
If you love all things with a big heart you are going to love Kookaburra Cottage.
May 28, 2023
April is determined to lead her family’s winery into the future. She dreams of turning the historic stables at the Lacewing Estate into a bread & breakfast but soon discovers the crumbling building and her father’s reluctance to join the food tourism revolution are just the beginning of her uphill battle.
English winemaker, Connor, as travelled to South Australia to learn from the experts and carve a name for himself in the wine industry. However, it quickly becomes clear that the distance Connor has put between himself and an accident that changed his world keeps nipping at his heels.
United by cooking classes, music and an unexpected involvement in the local country show, April and Connor seem to be the perfect match. Will old flames, new challenges and careers keep them apart or will the pair forge their own path together?
Kookaburra Cottage is the first book in a new series set in South Australia’s Limestone Coast so I’m eagerly awaiting her next instalment.
A delightful contemporary rural romance filled with lovely country charm. A fabulous read. This story bought the SA wine region to life. I’m now planning my road trip to the Limestone Coast 🍷
I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
English winemaker, Connor, as travelled to South Australia to learn from the experts and carve a name for himself in the wine industry. However, it quickly becomes clear that the distance Connor has put between himself and an accident that changed his world keeps nipping at his heels.
United by cooking classes, music and an unexpected involvement in the local country show, April and Connor seem to be the perfect match. Will old flames, new challenges and careers keep them apart or will the pair forge their own path together?
Kookaburra Cottage is the first book in a new series set in South Australia’s Limestone Coast so I’m eagerly awaiting her next instalment.
A delightful contemporary rural romance filled with lovely country charm. A fabulous read. This story bought the SA wine region to life. I’m now planning my road trip to the Limestone Coast 🍷
I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
June 6, 2023
Maya another excellent story. Each character has its own part to add to the tale. I always want to keep reading and rereading your books. The descriptions add to the story telling and I can easily imagine the settings. Looking forward to the next one Maya!
June 7, 2023
Loved the characters in this book.
July 29, 2023
It’s a different family in a different location, but Kookaburra Cottage did not disappoint and Maya Linnell has nailed it again reminding me why I’m a fan of Maya’s creations.
Her descriptions of the landscape and locations makes you feel like you are there seeing it all with your own eyes, creating the fabulous backdrops for the story to take place, from the Lacewing Estate and Kookaburra Cottage to Penwarra Golf Club and Geraldine’s Cooking School.
As to be expected of Maya’s work, the main characters each stand on their own with unique characteristics and personalities, and it doesn’t take long to fall in love with many of them. It’s a great mixture with a strongminded daughter, an up-for-anything Englishman and a hilarious Scot, a garden loving kid, a stubborn dad, a matchmaker, a fabulous cooking teacher, an extremely energetic canine and two escape artist lambs, just to list a few. You just know it’s going to be an adventure.
The story switching between being told from April’s point of view and Connor’s point of view is genius as it really adds to the tale, giving a bit of suspense in some parts while you wait to see what happened or the other’s reaction.
You’ll laugh your way through some very tragic baking, golf clubhouse antics, the local show, fishing exploits, Zoom calls, cooking lessons and some sheep wrangling, as well as be endeared and awed by the creation of the B&B, growth of the winery, the community spirit, old and new friendships and of course the excitement and heartbreak of love both old and new.
I did love the McIntyre family cameo but at the same time a little perplexed at the white chocolate Tim Tams in the freezer…..definitely new to me, but I think I’ll have to give it go.
I recommend grabbing a copy of Kookaburra Cottage….it’s an entertaining and easy read.
#kookaburracottage
#mayalinnell
#bakingtragediesandtriumphs
Her descriptions of the landscape and locations makes you feel like you are there seeing it all with your own eyes, creating the fabulous backdrops for the story to take place, from the Lacewing Estate and Kookaburra Cottage to Penwarra Golf Club and Geraldine’s Cooking School.
As to be expected of Maya’s work, the main characters each stand on their own with unique characteristics and personalities, and it doesn’t take long to fall in love with many of them. It’s a great mixture with a strongminded daughter, an up-for-anything Englishman and a hilarious Scot, a garden loving kid, a stubborn dad, a matchmaker, a fabulous cooking teacher, an extremely energetic canine and two escape artist lambs, just to list a few. You just know it’s going to be an adventure.
The story switching between being told from April’s point of view and Connor’s point of view is genius as it really adds to the tale, giving a bit of suspense in some parts while you wait to see what happened or the other’s reaction.
You’ll laugh your way through some very tragic baking, golf clubhouse antics, the local show, fishing exploits, Zoom calls, cooking lessons and some sheep wrangling, as well as be endeared and awed by the creation of the B&B, growth of the winery, the community spirit, old and new friendships and of course the excitement and heartbreak of love both old and new.
I did love the McIntyre family cameo but at the same time a little perplexed at the white chocolate Tim Tams in the freezer…..definitely new to me, but I think I’ll have to give it go.
I recommend grabbing a copy of Kookaburra Cottage….it’s an entertaining and easy read.
#kookaburracottage
#mayalinnell
#bakingtragediesandtriumphs
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