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Where the Heart Is
Hearts are on the line when a marriage of convenience goes awry... Pitch-perfect rural romance for readers of Karly Lane and Mandy Magro.
Home is where the heart is and for one country girl, she'll do whatever it takes to save it...
Mila Hayes will do anything to keep her family's farm, including marrying the wrong man. But when the groom backs out at the last minute, and Sawyer Mann, her teen crush and her brother's best friend, witnesses her humiliation, Mila's hopes plummet.
She doesn't believe Sawyer when he says he can help. She's done with short-term solutions. So how will Mila cope when she falls for Sawyer all over again and is forced into making a follow her head or her heart?
Sawyer, now a high-powered land broker who fled Ashe Ridge years ago to escape painful memories, is back temporarily and finds himself unexpectedly drawn to Mila. He kept secrets from her in the past and it pushed them apart. Can he convince Mila this time will be different?
Meanwhile, Adelaide Hayes, who left her grumpy husband Jack fourteen years ago to follow her dreams, is unsettled by memories resurrected at Mila's wedding. She's wary of a man tied to this town, but what if he can prove they can build a new future together?
PRAISE FOR NICOLA
'The Promise of Home is a heart-warming read from a writer who knows how to deliver a great story.' - Better Reading
Home is where the heart is and for one country girl, she'll do whatever it takes to save it...
Mila Hayes will do anything to keep her family's farm, including marrying the wrong man. But when the groom backs out at the last minute, and Sawyer Mann, her teen crush and her brother's best friend, witnesses her humiliation, Mila's hopes plummet.
She doesn't believe Sawyer when he says he can help. She's done with short-term solutions. So how will Mila cope when she falls for Sawyer all over again and is forced into making a follow her head or her heart?
Sawyer, now a high-powered land broker who fled Ashe Ridge years ago to escape painful memories, is back temporarily and finds himself unexpectedly drawn to Mila. He kept secrets from her in the past and it pushed them apart. Can he convince Mila this time will be different?
Meanwhile, Adelaide Hayes, who left her grumpy husband Jack fourteen years ago to follow her dreams, is unsettled by memories resurrected at Mila's wedding. She's wary of a man tied to this town, but what if he can prove they can build a new future together?
PRAISE FOR NICOLA
'The Promise of Home is a heart-warming read from a writer who knows how to deliver a great story.' - Better Reading
320 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 29, 2025
22 people are currently reading
216 people want to read
About the author
Nicola Marsh
415 books1,443 followersUSA TODAY bestselling and award-winning Australian author Nicola Marsh writes page-turning fiction to keep you up all night.
She has published 86 books across genres, including contemporary romance, women's fiction, domestic suspense, and fantasy.
She's a Waldenbooks, Bookscan, Amazon, iBooks and Barnes & Noble bestseller, a 2013 RBY and National Readers' Choice Award winner, and a multiple finalist for many other awards.
She loves chatting on social media!
She has published 86 books across genres, including contemporary romance, women's fiction, domestic suspense, and fantasy.
She's a Waldenbooks, Bookscan, Amazon, iBooks and Barnes & Noble bestseller, a 2013 RBY and National Readers' Choice Award winner, and a multiple finalist for many other awards.
She loves chatting on social media!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews
January 21, 2025
Mila Hayes had had a lot of people desert her in her life. First her parents left, leaving her and her brother Will with their grandparents, Adelaide and Jack. Then Will and his best friend, Sawyer Mann, left Ashe Ridge as soon as school was finished - Sawyer to Melbourne and Will to London. Then fourteen years ago, Adelaide left her marriage after Jack changed, making it seem that the farm was more important than she was. Now Adelaide was back after spending the past fourteen years at Tully Bay on the NSW coast, near Byron Bay. She was home because her granddaughter, Mila, was getting married. But when Mila's groom turned up on the day of the wedding to call it off, Mila felt gutted. What was wrong with her? At least Sawyer had arrived in place of her brother who was sick, unable to fly home.
Mila loved the farm, Hills Homestead, which her grandfather had sold her. It was a lentil farm and she was adding a farm stay venture to it. But her finances were low and she needed to work out what to do. Independence was Mila all over, just like her grandparents, but that meant she wouldn't accept help from anyone - she was determined to work it out herself. But what would that mean in the long run? Would her struggle be worth it - would she keep her beloved farm?
Where the Heart Is by Aussie author Nicola Marsh is a delightful rural romance with a good story behind it. The characters are well written; the small town of Ashe Ridge in Victoria's vast countryside is much like most small Aussie towns - I enjoyed it all very much. Recommended.
With thanks to HarperCollins AU for my uncorrected proof ARC to read and review.
Mila loved the farm, Hills Homestead, which her grandfather had sold her. It was a lentil farm and she was adding a farm stay venture to it. But her finances were low and she needed to work out what to do. Independence was Mila all over, just like her grandparents, but that meant she wouldn't accept help from anyone - she was determined to work it out herself. But what would that mean in the long run? Would her struggle be worth it - would she keep her beloved farm?
Where the Heart Is by Aussie author Nicola Marsh is a delightful rural romance with a good story behind it. The characters are well written; the small town of Ashe Ridge in Victoria's vast countryside is much like most small Aussie towns - I enjoyed it all very much. Recommended.
With thanks to HarperCollins AU for my uncorrected proof ARC to read and review.
December 26, 2024
Mila Hayes is a lentil framer, she will do anything to keep the family property Hills Homestead, including a marriage of convenience and her groom changes his mind. Mila can’t believe she’s been jilted on her wedding day, her brother Will’s best friend and her teenage crush Sawyer Mann arrives at the worse moment and while she's throwing a massive tantrum.
Sawyer departed Ashe Ridge on the day he finished high school and is now a successful land broker in Melbourne and promises to help her. Sawyer has a soft spot for Hills Homestead and Mila and is she too stubborn and proud to accept his assistance?
Adelaide Hayes left her husband Jack and Ashe Ridge fourteen years ago and she returns for granddaughter Mila’s wedding. To say Adelaide feels flustered when she sees Jack for the first time is an understatement, and he's a different person, not the distant, work alcoholic she remembers and who took all she did for granted and made her feel unloved and undesirable.
I received a copy of Where the Heart Is by Nicola Marsh from Harlequin Australia and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. This is Ms. Marsh’s fifth Australian rural romance, the stunning cover, with the purple flowers and good looking bloke and the quote “ what makes a place a home” on the front cover grabs the reader’s attention and the narrative doesn’t let it go and this will happen to everyone who picks up a copy.
The story is just as memorable as the cover, it explains what it’s like to live in a small Australian country town, for some they like the close-knit community, knowing everyone and others it’s smothering and they leave as soon as their old enough. I really liked the subjects and topics included in the narrative, such as the way farmers feel about their land, it’s not just dirt, and the ties that bind them to it. The sentiments and emotions the characters felt and for example, wanting to be independent, teenage crushes and when a marriage is over and can you find the spark again, learning difficulties and depression, and what makes a place a home and that’s history, memories and love.
Five stars from me, Where the Heart Is made me laugh out loud and I have massive crush on Sawyer and some of the quotes will stay with me, and the main one has to do with a nun and a bum and Nicola Marsh has a way with words and can she please write a sequel about Mila’s brother Will.
Sawyer departed Ashe Ridge on the day he finished high school and is now a successful land broker in Melbourne and promises to help her. Sawyer has a soft spot for Hills Homestead and Mila and is she too stubborn and proud to accept his assistance?
Adelaide Hayes left her husband Jack and Ashe Ridge fourteen years ago and she returns for granddaughter Mila’s wedding. To say Adelaide feels flustered when she sees Jack for the first time is an understatement, and he's a different person, not the distant, work alcoholic she remembers and who took all she did for granted and made her feel unloved and undesirable.
I received a copy of Where the Heart Is by Nicola Marsh from Harlequin Australia and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. This is Ms. Marsh’s fifth Australian rural romance, the stunning cover, with the purple flowers and good looking bloke and the quote “ what makes a place a home” on the front cover grabs the reader’s attention and the narrative doesn’t let it go and this will happen to everyone who picks up a copy.
The story is just as memorable as the cover, it explains what it’s like to live in a small Australian country town, for some they like the close-knit community, knowing everyone and others it’s smothering and they leave as soon as their old enough. I really liked the subjects and topics included in the narrative, such as the way farmers feel about their land, it’s not just dirt, and the ties that bind them to it. The sentiments and emotions the characters felt and for example, wanting to be independent, teenage crushes and when a marriage is over and can you find the spark again, learning difficulties and depression, and what makes a place a home and that’s history, memories and love.
Five stars from me, Where the Heart Is made me laugh out loud and I have massive crush on Sawyer and some of the quotes will stay with me, and the main one has to do with a nun and a bum and Nicola Marsh has a way with words and can she please write a sequel about Mila’s brother Will.
January 29, 2025
Mila Hayes spent most of her childhood on her grandparent’s farm in Ashe Ridge and there is not much that she will not do to keep it now that it is hers, her brother Will left town as soon as his last exams were over and after she finished hers her grandmother left as well, Mila and her grandfather kept everything going until he sold the farm to her, but things are not easy being a lentil farmer and Mila is making it into a farm stay as well, but she needs a money injection and if that means marrying her older neighbour then so be it but when Sawyer Mann best friend of her brother and the guy she has always had a crush on arrives for the wedding just after her humiliation, Mila is wondering what to do, trust doesn’t come easy to Mila.
Sawyer is determined to help Mila in anyway he can but she is so independent, helping her is not going to be easy being a land broker he sets out to help, but will it all be thrown back in his face as they both can no longer resist the spark and electricity the arcs between them, if and probably when his secrets comes out will he be able to convince her how much he loves her?
Adelaide Hayes returns home to Ashe Ridge for her granddaughter’s wedding after leaving her husband, Jack fourteen years ago, it is time to sort out their past but when she knocks on Jack’s door so many emotions fly through her and Jack himself is stunned to see Addy on his doorstep after all of these years, could there be any chance that talking about the past could bring them back together, because it certainly feels like the spark is still there.
Two lovely romances both with characters that were very easy to get to know and love Mila and Sawyer are a perfect match in my eyes but there are a few ups and downs before they get there and Addy and Jack a lot to get out in the open for them, this is one that I do highly recommend to any lover of a good rural romance, and I am very much hoping that we will be back in Ashe Ridge to see Will get his.
My thanks to Harlequin AU for my ARC to read and review.
Sawyer is determined to help Mila in anyway he can but she is so independent, helping her is not going to be easy being a land broker he sets out to help, but will it all be thrown back in his face as they both can no longer resist the spark and electricity the arcs between them, if and probably when his secrets comes out will he be able to convince her how much he loves her?
Adelaide Hayes returns home to Ashe Ridge for her granddaughter’s wedding after leaving her husband, Jack fourteen years ago, it is time to sort out their past but when she knocks on Jack’s door so many emotions fly through her and Jack himself is stunned to see Addy on his doorstep after all of these years, could there be any chance that talking about the past could bring them back together, because it certainly feels like the spark is still there.
Two lovely romances both with characters that were very easy to get to know and love Mila and Sawyer are a perfect match in my eyes but there are a few ups and downs before they get there and Addy and Jack a lot to get out in the open for them, this is one that I do highly recommend to any lover of a good rural romance, and I am very much hoping that we will be back in Ashe Ridge to see Will get his.
My thanks to Harlequin AU for my ARC to read and review.
June 11, 2025
**Thank you to HQ Fiction Australia for sending me a free copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review: published 29 January 2025**
This is a light and very easy to read Australian rural romance. Two couples are featured in alternating storylines. The first couple is Mila who is trying to save her farm and Sawyer who is her brother's best friend from childhood (also her teen crush). Sawyer is in town to attend Mila's wedding but after the groom backs out at the last minute, Sawyer ends up comforting Mila and trying to help her with the farm. Meanwhile the second couple is Mila's grandparents Addy and Jack who have been separated for some time and haven't seen each other in years. A series of events leads to Addy staying on Jack's property temporarily. They are all likeable characters with realistic issues and flaws. Readers will find the pages turning quickly to see if the respective couples can sort their problems out to have a happy ending.
Overall: if rural romance is your thing, I'd happily recommend this one.
This is a light and very easy to read Australian rural romance. Two couples are featured in alternating storylines. The first couple is Mila who is trying to save her farm and Sawyer who is her brother's best friend from childhood (also her teen crush). Sawyer is in town to attend Mila's wedding but after the groom backs out at the last minute, Sawyer ends up comforting Mila and trying to help her with the farm. Meanwhile the second couple is Mila's grandparents Addy and Jack who have been separated for some time and haven't seen each other in years. A series of events leads to Addy staying on Jack's property temporarily. They are all likeable characters with realistic issues and flaws. Readers will find the pages turning quickly to see if the respective couples can sort their problems out to have a happy ending.
Overall: if rural romance is your thing, I'd happily recommend this one.
January 28, 2025
Big thanks to Harlequin for sending us a copy to read and review.
Where The Heart Is is the latest rural romance from powerhouse Aussie author Nicola Marsh.
Get ready to be whirled away to the country and Nicola’s cherished fictional town of Ashe Ridge where the community will welcome you with open arms.
Mila makes the decision to marry her older neighbour to save her family farm.
But the groom changes his mind at the last minute.
Sawyer, a successful land broker, witnesses all and steps in to help.
Her grandmother, Adelaide arrives in town for the wedding but is nervous to see her ex husband Jack, as she fled the country many years before.
Can the trio heal from past decisions and open their heart for love once again…..
A sweet, warm and friendly romance with a splash of drama vibes and a hint of trouble.
Nicola writes with emotion, wit and ease and her stories proceed to be engaging, delightful and charming.
Reading a book from this talented author is a pleasing experience, like catching up with an old friend.
A woven web of love, family, hearts, secrets, passion and an assortment of social issues.
Where The Heart Is is the latest rural romance from powerhouse Aussie author Nicola Marsh.
Get ready to be whirled away to the country and Nicola’s cherished fictional town of Ashe Ridge where the community will welcome you with open arms.
Mila makes the decision to marry her older neighbour to save her family farm.
But the groom changes his mind at the last minute.
Sawyer, a successful land broker, witnesses all and steps in to help.
Her grandmother, Adelaide arrives in town for the wedding but is nervous to see her ex husband Jack, as she fled the country many years before.
Can the trio heal from past decisions and open their heart for love once again…..
A sweet, warm and friendly romance with a splash of drama vibes and a hint of trouble.
Nicola writes with emotion, wit and ease and her stories proceed to be engaging, delightful and charming.
Reading a book from this talented author is a pleasing experience, like catching up with an old friend.
A woven web of love, family, hearts, secrets, passion and an assortment of social issues.
February 11, 2025
Where the Heart Is, is a heartfelt small-town romance that blends emotional stakes with swoon-worthy chemistry. If you love a story filled with longing, second chances, and unexpected love, this one delivers beautifully.
Mila Hayes is desperate to save her family’s farm, even if it means entering a marriage of convenience. But when her groom abandons her at the altar, her worst fears come true—until Sawyer Mann, her childhood crush and her brother’s best friend, steps in with an offer she never saw coming. What starts as a practical arrangement soon turns into something much more complicated as old feelings resurface, and Mila must decide whether she can open her heart to love again.
This novel is packed with romance tropes that make for an addictive read:
🪻Arranged marriage/marriage of convenience
🪻Brother’s best friend
🪻Second chance romance
Nicola Marsh does a fantastic job of crafting a slow-burn romance with just the right amount of angst and heartfelt moments. The tension between Mila and Sawyer is palpable, and their dynamic keeps you turning the pages. Add in the charm of a small-town setting, family drama, and a love story that feels both deep and authentic, and you have a book that’s hard to put down.
If you’re a fan of second-chance romance with a strong emotional core, Where the Heart Is, is a must-read!
Mila Hayes is desperate to save her family’s farm, even if it means entering a marriage of convenience. But when her groom abandons her at the altar, her worst fears come true—until Sawyer Mann, her childhood crush and her brother’s best friend, steps in with an offer she never saw coming. What starts as a practical arrangement soon turns into something much more complicated as old feelings resurface, and Mila must decide whether she can open her heart to love again.
This novel is packed with romance tropes that make for an addictive read:
🪻Arranged marriage/marriage of convenience
🪻Brother’s best friend
🪻Second chance romance
Nicola Marsh does a fantastic job of crafting a slow-burn romance with just the right amount of angst and heartfelt moments. The tension between Mila and Sawyer is palpable, and their dynamic keeps you turning the pages. Add in the charm of a small-town setting, family drama, and a love story that feels both deep and authentic, and you have a book that’s hard to put down.
If you’re a fan of second-chance romance with a strong emotional core, Where the Heart Is, is a must-read!
June 25, 2025
Where the heart is by Nicola Marsh is the perfect summer read if your wanting to relax and unwind with an easy to read book.
Mila Hayes is a strong and independent farmer, but after being left at the alter she is humiliated, adding to her embarrassment past crush and friend Sawyer is there to witness it.
Sawyer can't bear to see Mila upset and hurt, he puts aside his unease at returning to his hometown and stays a bit longer to help Mila.
A nice easy romance to read, made a bit more intriguing with the side story of Mila's grandparents reuniting.
Thanks Harlequin for the copy to read and review.
Mila Hayes is a strong and independent farmer, but after being left at the alter she is humiliated, adding to her embarrassment past crush and friend Sawyer is there to witness it.
Sawyer can't bear to see Mila upset and hurt, he puts aside his unease at returning to his hometown and stays a bit longer to help Mila.
A nice easy romance to read, made a bit more intriguing with the side story of Mila's grandparents reuniting.
Thanks Harlequin for the copy to read and review.
February 3, 2025
Thanks to NetGalley, Harlequin Australia, and the author for the chance to read this book.
This is a story about second chances. I was so drawn into the story and the way the land was depicted. It made it easy to understand why Mila was willing to go to such lengths to protect her land.
I enjoyed the story of Adelaide and Jack and the way we got to know them.
The story was quick to read, and I didn't want to put it down.
This is a story about second chances. I was so drawn into the story and the way the land was depicted. It made it easy to understand why Mila was willing to go to such lengths to protect her land.
I enjoyed the story of Adelaide and Jack and the way we got to know them.
The story was quick to read, and I didn't want to put it down.
October 21, 2025
Good easy read. romance
January 16, 2025
Copy received from Harper Collins Australia for an honest review
Not going to lie, I am not the biggest fan of the rural romance genre (I have been the city girl that moves to the country, and it is not like they make it out to be hahaha)
However, this one got past those barriers I have to it, and I really liked it.
It is not just the story of Mila and Sawyer, moving from friendship to more. It is small town gossip, doing what you have to do to keep your head above water. It is holding your head high when it feel like every eye is on you.
I like both Mila and Sawyer a lot. You can feel their childhood friendship turn into love, not always through words but actions.
Yes, there was that silly miscommunication thing that we get is so many books these days, but I liked that it was just a small blip and didn't take half of the book to get over.
There is also another story line that I think readers are going to enjoy.
I haven't read Nicola Marsh before, but I would not say no to reading her again in the future.
Not going to lie, I am not the biggest fan of the rural romance genre (I have been the city girl that moves to the country, and it is not like they make it out to be hahaha)
However, this one got past those barriers I have to it, and I really liked it.
It is not just the story of Mila and Sawyer, moving from friendship to more. It is small town gossip, doing what you have to do to keep your head above water. It is holding your head high when it feel like every eye is on you.
I like both Mila and Sawyer a lot. You can feel their childhood friendship turn into love, not always through words but actions.
Yes, there was that silly miscommunication thing that we get is so many books these days, but I liked that it was just a small blip and didn't take half of the book to get over.
There is also another story line that I think readers are going to enjoy.
I haven't read Nicola Marsh before, but I would not say no to reading her again in the future.
January 27, 2025
I used to read a lot of rural romance, but that has decreased in recent years, so it was a nice change to pick up Nicol Marsh's new novel.
The book has two romances: Mila, who was due to marry her neighbour for practical reasons, and her grandmother Adelaide, who returns to the town for Mila's wedding 14 years after walking out on her husband. I took a little time to warm up to Mila and Adelaide, but I liked Sawyer and Jack as soon as I met them. I also liked seeing a romance about 2 people in their 70s, people forget that older people have needs and feelings too, you are never too old for romance.
Sawyer was such a nice guy and I felt for him with the learning difficulties he'd had in school and how terrible the teachers treated him without even thinking there might be some sort of learning issue and that he wasn't just a waste of space. So many teachers have a lot to answer for. It was good he was able to show the naysayers that he'd made something of himself and could be proud of what he'd achieved despite their treatment.
I felt for Jack and though I understood Adelaide hadn't been happy, to just walk out on someone you are supposed to love with no discussion, well, that's a pretty cruel thing to do. I did enjoy their second chance at romance though.
Mila and Sawyer's connection was strong despite them not having seen each other for years. I was hoping Mila would get out of her own way and let Sawyer help her, alas... I liked that Sawyer wanted to help and did everything he could to see that she could make her dream come true. I knew these two would make a great couple if they could both get their acts together.
This was an enjoyable read and I'll be making time to read more rural romance this year.
The book has two romances: Mila, who was due to marry her neighbour for practical reasons, and her grandmother Adelaide, who returns to the town for Mila's wedding 14 years after walking out on her husband. I took a little time to warm up to Mila and Adelaide, but I liked Sawyer and Jack as soon as I met them. I also liked seeing a romance about 2 people in their 70s, people forget that older people have needs and feelings too, you are never too old for romance.
Sawyer was such a nice guy and I felt for him with the learning difficulties he'd had in school and how terrible the teachers treated him without even thinking there might be some sort of learning issue and that he wasn't just a waste of space. So many teachers have a lot to answer for. It was good he was able to show the naysayers that he'd made something of himself and could be proud of what he'd achieved despite their treatment.
I felt for Jack and though I understood Adelaide hadn't been happy, to just walk out on someone you are supposed to love with no discussion, well, that's a pretty cruel thing to do. I did enjoy their second chance at romance though.
Mila and Sawyer's connection was strong despite them not having seen each other for years. I was hoping Mila would get out of her own way and let Sawyer help her, alas... I liked that Sawyer wanted to help and did everything he could to see that she could make her dream come true. I knew these two would make a great couple if they could both get their acts together.
This was an enjoyable read and I'll be making time to read more rural romance this year.
February 16, 2025
Mila was prepared to marry purely for the sake of keeping her farm. When the groom decides on the day that he can't go through with it, she finds herself left in the lurch. When her brother's best friend Sawyer witnesses her humiliation, he steps in and says he can help. Will Mila let him?
Another super sweet small town romance by Nicola Marsh. I loved these two main characters! Their relationship took time to build but the chemistry was there from the beginning. This was an easy one to get through which I perfectly timed to read in the month of love.
Another super sweet small town romance by Nicola Marsh. I loved these two main characters! Their relationship took time to build but the chemistry was there from the beginning. This was an easy one to get through which I perfectly timed to read in the month of love.
January 29, 2025
With thanks to HarperCollins AU for my uncorrected proof ARC to read and review
When the groom backs out hours before her wedding, country girl Mila must find a way to save her property before the bank demands the house be sold. The farm has been in the family for generations and Mila always knew that her heart was held in the family home, so she’ll do whatever it takes to hold on to it, including marrying her neighbour for a financial contract.
Sawyer couldn’t wait to leave Ashe Ridge, being known as nothing but a stupid loser, he never wanted to return. So when his best mate couldn’t attend his sister’s wedding, he enlisted the help of Sawyer to stand in his place. But what Mila doesn’t know is she wasn’t the only one who held feelings all those years ago.
Adelaide made her escape from a loveless marriage and Ashe Ridge 14 years ago and now returns for the nuptials of her granddaughter and bares divorce papers for her own marriage. However, when she sees Jack again after so much time apart, she starts to think maybe people can change.
I loved this book! I found the story easy to follow especially when each chapter jumped between the two female characters, Mila and Adelaide. It felt well paced, the timeline didn’t feel like it was rushed or too much was happening in a short period.
The book touched on topics felt amongst many rural communities such as loneliness, isolation, depression, learning disabilities and financial hardship. One thing I really enjoyed was seeing how depression was written in the grandfather character and how this affected his earlier life and how he overcame it later in life. It’s not often discussed in men but the way Nicola Marsh does it opens up a whole new view of depression in rural men and how they can share their struggles without the shame or guilt often associated with the feeling.
A heart warming and charming book, it feels like coming home with a good coffee whenever you pick it up.
When the groom backs out hours before her wedding, country girl Mila must find a way to save her property before the bank demands the house be sold. The farm has been in the family for generations and Mila always knew that her heart was held in the family home, so she’ll do whatever it takes to hold on to it, including marrying her neighbour for a financial contract.
Sawyer couldn’t wait to leave Ashe Ridge, being known as nothing but a stupid loser, he never wanted to return. So when his best mate couldn’t attend his sister’s wedding, he enlisted the help of Sawyer to stand in his place. But what Mila doesn’t know is she wasn’t the only one who held feelings all those years ago.
Adelaide made her escape from a loveless marriage and Ashe Ridge 14 years ago and now returns for the nuptials of her granddaughter and bares divorce papers for her own marriage. However, when she sees Jack again after so much time apart, she starts to think maybe people can change.
I loved this book! I found the story easy to follow especially when each chapter jumped between the two female characters, Mila and Adelaide. It felt well paced, the timeline didn’t feel like it was rushed or too much was happening in a short period.
The book touched on topics felt amongst many rural communities such as loneliness, isolation, depression, learning disabilities and financial hardship. One thing I really enjoyed was seeing how depression was written in the grandfather character and how this affected his earlier life and how he overcame it later in life. It’s not often discussed in men but the way Nicola Marsh does it opens up a whole new view of depression in rural men and how they can share their struggles without the shame or guilt often associated with the feeling.
A heart warming and charming book, it feels like coming home with a good coffee whenever you pick it up.
February 26, 2025
I love Nicola Marsh’s rural romances, and this one is a great read. Where The Heart Is is set in the Wimmera town of Ashe Ridge and has two romantic threads to keep readers interested. First up there is Mila Hayes and Sawyer Mann, who had crushes on each other in their teens, though neither was aware of the other’s feelings. This story opens about fifteen years later when they are in their early thirties. Sawyer is in town as a stand-in for Mila’s brother, who is sick and can’t travel home from London, where he lives. As Sawyer arrives, Mila is busy demolishing the arbor in her garden, the place where she was supposed to be marrying her neighbour Phil, who has canceled on her wedding day. The wedding was a marriage of convenience and other than the fact its cancellation has left her in a heap of financial worry, it’s clear that Mila has no romantic feelings at all for Phil. Sawyer, on the other hand, has tingles running up her arms in no time at all and it doesn’t take long to see that the feeling is mutual. I loved watching these two dancing around each other as their attraction morphed into something more. Meanwhile, Mila’s grandmother Adelaide has made the journey back to Ashe Ridge, a town she left fourteen years earlier when she walked out on her husband. Adelaide is here for the wedding and has decided she might as well proceed with a divorce while she’s there. With her car broken down and a flat phone, she walks to the nearest house, hoping to call a mechanic. I loved her surprise at finding her husband Jack living in the house, which just happens to be identical to the dream home she told him she’d love to have all those years ago. Turns out that the spark between these two is still there as well and that was another interesting romance to watch. This book was so easy to read. It’s perfect for a lazy weekend or just to make you smile.
January 23, 2025
**Where the Heart Is**
by Nicola Marsh
The intertwining love stories are beautifully portrayed, capturing the essence of second chances and the transformative power of love. Mila and Sawyer's journey is a poignant exploration of overcoming past pain and finding hope in new beginnings. Meanwhile, Adelaide and Jack's story is a touching testament to the enduring nature of true love, even after years of separation.
Mila Hayes is fiercely dedicated to preserving her family’s cherished farm, Hills Homestead, even if it means marrying a man who isn’t right for her. When her fiancé backs out at the last minute, Sawyer Mann, her teenage crush and her brother's best friend, witnesses her humiliation.
Now a high-powered land broker with a charismatic presence, Sawyer returns to Ashe Ridge after years of fleeing from painful memories. Unexpectedly drawn to Mila’s authenticity and resilience, he finds himself captivated by the woman he once knew.
Meanwhile, Adelaide Hayes, who left her cantankerous husband, Jack Hayes, fourteen years ago to chase her dreams beyond their rural life, is back in Ashe Ridge for a significant family event—her granddaughter's wedding. The town echoes with memories as she encounters Jack once more. Both have changed, yet the unresolved tension and unfinished business between them remain palpable. How will they confront their past and what choices will they make when faced with each other again after all these years?
Where the Heart Is is a heartwarming read that showcases Nicola Marsh's talent for weaving intricate love stories set against the backdrop of a quaint Australian town. It's a must-read for fans of romance and anyone who believes in the power of love and second chances.
by Nicola Marsh
The intertwining love stories are beautifully portrayed, capturing the essence of second chances and the transformative power of love. Mila and Sawyer's journey is a poignant exploration of overcoming past pain and finding hope in new beginnings. Meanwhile, Adelaide and Jack's story is a touching testament to the enduring nature of true love, even after years of separation.
Mila Hayes is fiercely dedicated to preserving her family’s cherished farm, Hills Homestead, even if it means marrying a man who isn’t right for her. When her fiancé backs out at the last minute, Sawyer Mann, her teenage crush and her brother's best friend, witnesses her humiliation.
Now a high-powered land broker with a charismatic presence, Sawyer returns to Ashe Ridge after years of fleeing from painful memories. Unexpectedly drawn to Mila’s authenticity and resilience, he finds himself captivated by the woman he once knew.
Meanwhile, Adelaide Hayes, who left her cantankerous husband, Jack Hayes, fourteen years ago to chase her dreams beyond their rural life, is back in Ashe Ridge for a significant family event—her granddaughter's wedding. The town echoes with memories as she encounters Jack once more. Both have changed, yet the unresolved tension and unfinished business between them remain palpable. How will they confront their past and what choices will they make when faced with each other again after all these years?
Where the Heart Is is a heartwarming read that showcases Nicola Marsh's talent for weaving intricate love stories set against the backdrop of a quaint Australian town. It's a must-read for fans of romance and anyone who believes in the power of love and second chances.
January 30, 2025
Where the Heart Is by Nicola Marsh is an excellent book - a page turner and was hard to put down.
Set in the small outback town of Ashe Ridge, the story opens with Mila about to marry her neighbour, it is not a love match but a marriage of convenience - he gets to use her land, and she gets money to pay of her overdraft and develop her farm stay cottages. Within a few pages this agreement is shattered as the groom-to-be calls off the wedding as he has fallen in love via a dating app. Mila hits rock bottom with despair and it is made worse when her childhood crush, Sawyer, witnesses her breakdown. Mila is proud and won’t admit to anyone how close she is to losing everything. She loves her farm, and is fiercely independent; she feel that every one she loved has abandoned her, parents, grandmother, brother and Sawyer. So when Sawyer says he can help her keep her farm by legally arranging things for her to sell off a parcel of land no strings attached she grabs the offer. But the path to love does not run smoothly. Sawyer has his own issues which was why he left Ashe Ridge as soon as he finished High School and Mila’s issues are what kept her there. These issues need to be overcome and, of course, they are. And speaking of issues, there is also a wonderful back story about whether love can be rekindled between Mila's grandparents When after running away fourteen years previously, Mila’s grandmother returns for the wedding that’s not going to happen.
Nicola Marsh is a brilliantly evocative writer and has brought the small Australian country town alive through the pages. She draws us into a community where everyone knows everyone else, and stories spreads quickly whether they are true or not, and memories of events often differ. I love her work and recommend this book, as well as her others.
Thank you to Harlequin Australia for providing an advanced copy of this book for review consideration via NetGalley. All opinions are my own
Set in the small outback town of Ashe Ridge, the story opens with Mila about to marry her neighbour, it is not a love match but a marriage of convenience - he gets to use her land, and she gets money to pay of her overdraft and develop her farm stay cottages. Within a few pages this agreement is shattered as the groom-to-be calls off the wedding as he has fallen in love via a dating app. Mila hits rock bottom with despair and it is made worse when her childhood crush, Sawyer, witnesses her breakdown. Mila is proud and won’t admit to anyone how close she is to losing everything. She loves her farm, and is fiercely independent; she feel that every one she loved has abandoned her, parents, grandmother, brother and Sawyer. So when Sawyer says he can help her keep her farm by legally arranging things for her to sell off a parcel of land no strings attached she grabs the offer. But the path to love does not run smoothly. Sawyer has his own issues which was why he left Ashe Ridge as soon as he finished High School and Mila’s issues are what kept her there. These issues need to be overcome and, of course, they are. And speaking of issues, there is also a wonderful back story about whether love can be rekindled between Mila's grandparents When after running away fourteen years previously, Mila’s grandmother returns for the wedding that’s not going to happen.
Nicola Marsh is a brilliantly evocative writer and has brought the small Australian country town alive through the pages. She draws us into a community where everyone knows everyone else, and stories spreads quickly whether they are true or not, and memories of events often differ. I love her work and recommend this book, as well as her others.
Thank you to Harlequin Australia for providing an advanced copy of this book for review consideration via NetGalley. All opinions are my own
January 27, 2025
This rural romance explores love, forgiveness, and second chances.
Mila Hayes is desperate to save her family’s farm, but when her marriage of convenience falls through, she’s forced to reconsider her future; Enter Sawyer Mann, her teenage crush and her brother’s best friend, who offers support despite their complicated history. As feelings reignite, Mila must decide whether to trust her heart.
Meanwhile, Mila’s grandmother, Adelaide, returns to Ashe Ridge for the wedding that never happens. Confronted by memories of the husband she left years ago, Adelaide faces her own journey of healing and potential reconciliation.
Set in a small Aussie country town, this dual love story weaves personal growth and second chances into a heartfelt tale.
This book genuinely surprised me because it isn't my typical type of romance read, but I genuinely loved it and it's small town/cozy romance vibes!
Also the cover of this book, photos don't do it justice! In person it's absolutely beautiful! 🩷
Mila Hayes is desperate to save her family’s farm, but when her marriage of convenience falls through, she’s forced to reconsider her future; Enter Sawyer Mann, her teenage crush and her brother’s best friend, who offers support despite their complicated history. As feelings reignite, Mila must decide whether to trust her heart.
Meanwhile, Mila’s grandmother, Adelaide, returns to Ashe Ridge for the wedding that never happens. Confronted by memories of the husband she left years ago, Adelaide faces her own journey of healing and potential reconciliation.
Set in a small Aussie country town, this dual love story weaves personal growth and second chances into a heartfelt tale.
This book genuinely surprised me because it isn't my typical type of romance read, but I genuinely loved it and it's small town/cozy romance vibes!
Also the cover of this book, photos don't do it justice! In person it's absolutely beautiful! 🩷
March 28, 2025
Another lovely rural romance - perfect for a weekend read!
Mila purchased her beloved family farm from her Grandfather and can’t imagine living anywhere else. It’s tough though, and she needs an investor to help her with her plan to create a B&B situation. She planned on a marriage of convenience to friend and neighbour Phil, but he calls off their wedding on their wedding day because he’s met someone he wants to be with. Mila isn’t emotionally devastated, but she’s worried about the loss of his cash injection.
Sawyer is Mila’s brother’s best friend, and the three of them were close growing up. He’s in town for the wedding as her brother couldn’t make it back from the UK. He decides to stay and help Mila when the wedding is called off, but she won’t accept his help easily. He’s also drawn to her romantically, which may complicate things.
We also have Mila’s grandmother Adelaide, who has returned and ends up lodging with her husband Jack. She walked out years ago but they’ve never got a divorce, and she finds him to be a changed man. Can they find their way back to each other?
This was a super easy read that I just adored. I loved the different POVs and the dual romance storylines. I’m a sucker for a good rural romance, and this was just what I needed to relax after a stressful week and being sick! It had heart, humour and second chances and I definitely recommend it if you like rural romance!
Mila purchased her beloved family farm from her Grandfather and can’t imagine living anywhere else. It’s tough though, and she needs an investor to help her with her plan to create a B&B situation. She planned on a marriage of convenience to friend and neighbour Phil, but he calls off their wedding on their wedding day because he’s met someone he wants to be with. Mila isn’t emotionally devastated, but she’s worried about the loss of his cash injection.
Sawyer is Mila’s brother’s best friend, and the three of them were close growing up. He’s in town for the wedding as her brother couldn’t make it back from the UK. He decides to stay and help Mila when the wedding is called off, but she won’t accept his help easily. He’s also drawn to her romantically, which may complicate things.
We also have Mila’s grandmother Adelaide, who has returned and ends up lodging with her husband Jack. She walked out years ago but they’ve never got a divorce, and she finds him to be a changed man. Can they find their way back to each other?
This was a super easy read that I just adored. I loved the different POVs and the dual romance storylines. I’m a sucker for a good rural romance, and this was just what I needed to relax after a stressful week and being sick! It had heart, humour and second chances and I definitely recommend it if you like rural romance!
January 29, 2025
Gorgeous cover and a gorgeous story. You actually get two for the price of one!
I do love a brothers best friend romance, and this one is no exception, especially with a headstrong country girl to contend with.
As for the bonus romance, I dont always love a second chance romance, but this one was sweet.
I do love a brothers best friend romance, and this one is no exception, especially with a headstrong country girl to contend with.
As for the bonus romance, I dont always love a second chance romance, but this one was sweet.
May 7, 2025
Such a nice story! Two romance timelines. I really enjoyed Adelaide and Jack’s story and appreciated the fact that they were older and going through some rough patches for 14 years with no one communicating with each other. Mila and Sawyers story was just lovely and I feel that the ending leaves the door open for a sequel (hopefully). Such a talented author is Nicola, she can write several genres so well, so,etching not many other writers can do. I love everything she writes! Thank you to Harlequin Australia for sending me an ARC of this book in return for an honest opinion.
February 8, 2025
This was a really enjoyable story, chocked full of lovable if flawed characters!
The setting was perfect, maybe we will catch up with them all again in Will’s story!!
🩷
The setting was perfect, maybe we will catch up with them all again in Will’s story!!
🩷
May 6, 2025
This book deserves more readers!
Written well and look who doesn’t have a soft spot for a childhood friendship turned love story when they rekindle 15+ years later by chance.
Loved the softness of Sawyers character.
Written well and look who doesn’t have a soft spot for a childhood friendship turned love story when they rekindle 15+ years later by chance.
Loved the softness of Sawyers character.
Read
May 31, 2025loved it.
a great Aussie rural romance with all the drama
the intergenerational aspect was great and adorable
a great Aussie rural romance with all the drama
the intergenerational aspect was great and adorable
September 24, 2025
Great strong female characters, true real rural life hardship, life's ups and downs in relationships, but the heart knows what it wants in the end.
I loved the back and forth of understanding each other and that it's a give and take in all relationships. That communication is the key point in making it work. How you pin pointed out how the education system had let children down initially with kids with ADHD or other learning difficulties was captured well.
I loved reading this book and didn't want it to finish.
I loved the back and forth of understanding each other and that it's a give and take in all relationships. That communication is the key point in making it work. How you pin pointed out how the education system had let children down initially with kids with ADHD or other learning difficulties was captured well.
I loved reading this book and didn't want it to finish.
Read
April 25, 2025Really enjoyed this light but entertaining read. Nicely written, found you wanted to keep reading to find out what went next, nice.
October 11, 2025
once again Nicola has written another great Aussie Romance based in the Wimmera..loved the twists in regard to families, history coming back to cause more issues. really enjoyed the way the family members try and sort their life's out.... Very well written and can highly recommend.
June 6, 2025
Loved this book. First time reading this author. It was a good story and a easy read.
September 2, 2025
Loved the theme of this book. It transported me listening into their conversations and thoughts. Loved the cover. And now a huge fan of Nicola Marsh
Definitely worth reading!
Can’t wait to read another of her novels. Thanks
Definitely worth reading!
Can’t wait to read another of her novels. Thanks
February 17, 2025
On Valentine’s day, what better book to read than an Australian outback romance like Where the Heart is. I was #gifted a copy by #harlequinaus and thought it would be the perfect book for this day. This is a very sweet and wholesome story that involve two relationships. The first is centred around Mila Hayes is about to walk down the aisle in a business partnership marriage to her neighbour Phil to save her farm. Into the arms of Sawyer Mann, best friend of her brother Will, she finds herself revisiting the old crush that she had, with a potential relationship blossoming. The other relationship is with her grandmother Adelaide, he walked out on her grandfather, Jack, 14 years ago. I like decided to come up and witness Mila’s wedding, and was saved by Jack when her car broke down. Adelaide and Jack or a stubborn as each other, and it's actually quite heartwarming to watch them reconnect after all those years.
That really brings out all those wonderful elements of a country town in Australia, from the beautiful scenery and houses, to the small bakeries filled with good old fashioned favourites like apple pie and vanilla slice. It also comically notes to the stereotype of living in a small town where everybody knows everyone’s business and gossip is always highest on the agenda. I felt at home reading this book I felt like I knew the characters quite well. I love the fact that there was a connection between the two romance stories. Both Mila and her grandmother, Adelaide, supported each other but we're also able to be quite frank and honest about each others behaviour in trying to work out their emotions.
The smaller storyline around Sawyer returning to town was also quite grounding. Sawyer was not a great achiever at school and in his older years found out that his ADHD probably contribute it to many years of not being able to learn and participate as much as he would have liked. He was able to prove the town wrong when he returned having a successful business and profession behind him, and he was also able to support his sister when he could see glimpses of himself in his nephew.
That really brings out all those wonderful elements of a country town in Australia, from the beautiful scenery and houses, to the small bakeries filled with good old fashioned favourites like apple pie and vanilla slice. It also comically notes to the stereotype of living in a small town where everybody knows everyone’s business and gossip is always highest on the agenda. I felt at home reading this book I felt like I knew the characters quite well. I love the fact that there was a connection between the two romance stories. Both Mila and her grandmother, Adelaide, supported each other but we're also able to be quite frank and honest about each others behaviour in trying to work out their emotions.
The smaller storyline around Sawyer returning to town was also quite grounding. Sawyer was not a great achiever at school and in his older years found out that his ADHD probably contribute it to many years of not being able to learn and participate as much as he would have liked. He was able to prove the town wrong when he returned having a successful business and profession behind him, and he was also able to support his sister when he could see glimpses of himself in his nephew.
February 27, 2025
he book beautifully captures the essence of rural life, with a rich setting in the small Australian town of Ashe Ridge. I loved the different tropes woven into the story, particularly the theme of mending hearts. Whether it’s Mila’s emotional journey to save her family farm or the second chance romance between her grandparents, this story is full of heartwarming moments. 💖
The story: Mila Hayes will do anything to save her family’s farm, even if it means marrying the wrong man. But when her groom backs out at the last minute, and her childhood crush, Sawyer, witness her humiliation, her world falls apart. Sawyer, now a successful land broker, has his own painful past, but he’s determined to help Mila, even if she’s too proud to accept it.
Meanwhile, Mila’s grandmother, Adelaide, returns after 14 years, ready to confront her own past with her estranged husband, Jack.
The two interconnected love stories—Mila and Sawyer’s second chance romance, alongside Adelaide and Jack’s bittersweet reunion—had me turning pages faster than I expected! 📖
This is a perfect read for fans of second chances, small-town romance, and stories that beautifully balance light-hearted moments with emotional depth. I adored how Nicola Marsh brings complex issues like depression, learning disabilities, and financial hardship to the forefront, giving the characters a genuine sense of growth and resilience.
If you love heartwarming romance with a touch of drama and humour, Where the Heart Is is an absolute must-read. 💫
A big thank you to @harlequinaus for sending me a copy!
The story: Mila Hayes will do anything to save her family’s farm, even if it means marrying the wrong man. But when her groom backs out at the last minute, and her childhood crush, Sawyer, witness her humiliation, her world falls apart. Sawyer, now a successful land broker, has his own painful past, but he’s determined to help Mila, even if she’s too proud to accept it.
Meanwhile, Mila’s grandmother, Adelaide, returns after 14 years, ready to confront her own past with her estranged husband, Jack.
The two interconnected love stories—Mila and Sawyer’s second chance romance, alongside Adelaide and Jack’s bittersweet reunion—had me turning pages faster than I expected! 📖
This is a perfect read for fans of second chances, small-town romance, and stories that beautifully balance light-hearted moments with emotional depth. I adored how Nicola Marsh brings complex issues like depression, learning disabilities, and financial hardship to the forefront, giving the characters a genuine sense of growth and resilience.
If you love heartwarming romance with a touch of drama and humour, Where the Heart Is is an absolute must-read. 💫
A big thank you to @harlequinaus for sending me a copy!
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