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River Bend

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Fleeing Melbourne for the country, Lara Benton leaves the trauma of her past behind her. After being welcomed by the River Bend community Lara settles into the slower pace of country life and begins to love all the quirky characters she meets along the way.

But all at River Bend is not what it seems. This sleepy little town has something to hide and there are secrets around every corner. Even the adorable country cop, Curtis Gold has a past he's trying to forget. As Lara desperately tries to fight her attraction for Curtis, she gets caught up in one of River Bend's biggest secrets.



Will Curtis be able to save her?



Will true love prevail?



Can their love for each other survive?



Will Lara finally let go of her past to take a chance on her future, to take a chance on a country romance?

192 pages, Paperback

Published February 14, 2025

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Julie Kay

17 books1 follower

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Displaying 1 - 3 of 3 reviews
Profile Image for Brooke.
288 reviews1 follower
February 16, 2025
Lara Benton is leaving the trauma of her past behind in Melbourne for a new start in the small town of River Bend. With a teaching job at the local school she’s ready for a fresh start. But with a car accident on the very first day in town, her new life is not off to a great beginning. The local community is incredibly welcoming though and she soon settles in to her new life, befriending several locals, including the hot cop, Curtis Gold. However, just as Lara begins to relax, her past catches up with her and she is dragged in to a dangerous situation where she must fight to survive. Will Lara get the chance at the future she has dreamed of, or is it all too late?

I really enjoyed the setting of this story with its small country town vibe and colourful locals. The people were so wonderfully warm and welcoming and I especially loved Curtis and his sister Janie. The attraction between Lara and Curtis was very sweet and after what she had endured it was lovely to see Lara getting a second chance at love.

The suspense part of this story was also quite intriguing with some decidedly shady characters and dangerous secrets coming to the surface. There were a few tense scenes which really kept me turning the pages.

I loved my time in River Bend and have my fingers crossed for more books set in this beautiful town perhaps focused on some of the other characters like Janie or Marg.

If you enjoy small town romance with a hint of suspense then this book is for you.
Profile Image for Aryani Siti.
303 reviews4 followers
December 6, 2025
River Bend is a funny romance mixed with mystery. The story is about Lara Benton, who leaves Melbourne to escape a painful past. She moves to the small country town of River Bend, hoping for a quiet life. The town is full of friendly people, and Lara slowly begins to feel at home.

But River Bend is not as calm as it looks. The town is hiding big secrets, and strange things start to happen. Lara becomes caught up in a mystery she never expected.

Lara also meets Curtis Gold, the charming local police officer. He is kind and protective, but he also has his own past he wants to forget. Lara tries not to fall for him, but their connection keeps growing.

This book is about new beginnings, love, and letting go of the past. It has funny moments, a sweet romance, and a mystery that keeps you turning the pages. It is a lovely read for anyone who enjoys small-town stories, sweet characters, and a bit of mystery.
30 reviews1 follower
April 20, 2025
River Bend is a compelling story full of obstacles for the young Lara. I loved reading about her journey to find love in a small town, where secrets are held, then discovered. An engaging read with no lull in the middle.
Displaying 1 - 3 of 3 reviews

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