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Bundilla Novels #2
Snowy Mountains Cattleman
A woman's journey of self-discovery meets Bundilla's small-town charm and an intriguing post-World War II mystery in this captivating romance from bestselling Australian author Alissa Callen.
The greatest risk of all is love ...
Interior stylist Grace Davenport has come to the mountains for solitude and a place to heal after her parents' death. Returning to their beloved town of Bundilla, she plans to restore a local bluestone mansion in honour of their memory. She'll just be there for the summer, until she figures out her next step.
Rowan Parker never used to think twice about taking risks until his love for a woman blinded him to all common sense. Now, between his cattle farm in the high country and his work as a stonemason, there's no room in his life for further mistakes. But when he meets the beautiful but reserved new owner of the historic mansion he's been hired to rebuild, he realises his best-laid plans have run aground.
Together, Grace and Rowan work to bring the mansion back to life. But when they uncover a hidden trove of post-WWII secrets about the house's former inhabitants, their quest to find answers draws them ever closer. And just when the stone rubble around them begins to resemble a home, a landslide threatens all that Rowan and Grace have rebuilt. With their futures as unstable as the mountainside, each must fight for what they really want, even if it means losing everything...
The greatest risk of all is love ...
Interior stylist Grace Davenport has come to the mountains for solitude and a place to heal after her parents' death. Returning to their beloved town of Bundilla, she plans to restore a local bluestone mansion in honour of their memory. She'll just be there for the summer, until she figures out her next step.
Rowan Parker never used to think twice about taking risks until his love for a woman blinded him to all common sense. Now, between his cattle farm in the high country and his work as a stonemason, there's no room in his life for further mistakes. But when he meets the beautiful but reserved new owner of the historic mansion he's been hired to rebuild, he realises his best-laid plans have run aground.
Together, Grace and Rowan work to bring the mansion back to life. But when they uncover a hidden trove of post-WWII secrets about the house's former inhabitants, their quest to find answers draws them ever closer. And just when the stone rubble around them begins to resemble a home, a landslide threatens all that Rowan and Grace have rebuilt. With their futures as unstable as the mountainside, each must fight for what they really want, even if it means losing everything...
10 pages, Audible Audio
Published February 14, 2022
28 people are currently reading
211 people want to read
About the author
Alissa Callen
38 books301 followersWhen USA Today bestselling author Alissa Callen isn’t writing she plays traffic controller to four children, three dogs, two horses and one renegade cow who really does believe the grass is greener on the other side of the fence. After a childhood spent chasing sheep on the family farm, Alissa has always been drawn to remote areas and small towns, even when residing overseas. Once a teacher and a counsellor, she remains interested in the life journeys that people take. She also is partial to historic homesteads and country gardens and has been known to drive hours to see an open-garden. She currently lives on a small slice of rural Australia in central western New South Wales.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 58 reviews
February 1, 2022
As Grace Davenport descended on the small town of Bundilla she wondered if she was doing the right thing. Having lost her parents recently the grief she was feeling was all-consuming. Leaving her Sydney life and work for a few months, going to the place her parents had wanted to retire to, to the house which had reminded them of home back in England, was something Grace was doing in their stead. She just hoped she could come to terms with her grief over the time she was in Bundilla.
Crookwell Park had been empty for a long time and the vandals had made short work of the windows as well as filling the old homestead with graffiti. Rowen Parker was a stonemason, and it was his job to renew and renovate the old place with the stone it was originally built with. When he met the new owner of Crookwell Park, he was recovering from his own grief and rocky experiences. But he saw in Grace a kindred spirit and their desire to bring the beauty back to the old place was in them both. The cottage beside the homestead had been readied for Grace and she soon made it her own. But it was the kelpie who attached himself to Grace when she arrived in town, that gave her the most security. Bundy was famous in Bundilla and it seemed he’d recognized in Grace her need to be gently cared for…
Snowy Mountains Cattleman by Aussie author Alissa Callen is another excellent read in the Bundilla series which I thoroughly enjoyed. Bundy is an ongoing character and it was great to catch up with him again. My last read was winter in the Snowy Mountains; this is summer in the same vicinity – a beautiful place whatever the season. Ms Callen writes wonderful, caring characters and this one involved a mystery from decades prior which Grace was determined to solve. Snowy Mountains Cattleman is a read I highly recommend – as I do with all this author’s books.
With thanks to HarperCollins AU for my ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
Crookwell Park had been empty for a long time and the vandals had made short work of the windows as well as filling the old homestead with graffiti. Rowen Parker was a stonemason, and it was his job to renew and renovate the old place with the stone it was originally built with. When he met the new owner of Crookwell Park, he was recovering from his own grief and rocky experiences. But he saw in Grace a kindred spirit and their desire to bring the beauty back to the old place was in them both. The cottage beside the homestead had been readied for Grace and she soon made it her own. But it was the kelpie who attached himself to Grace when she arrived in town, that gave her the most security. Bundy was famous in Bundilla and it seemed he’d recognized in Grace her need to be gently cared for…
Snowy Mountains Cattleman by Aussie author Alissa Callen is another excellent read in the Bundilla series which I thoroughly enjoyed. Bundy is an ongoing character and it was great to catch up with him again. My last read was winter in the Snowy Mountains; this is summer in the same vicinity – a beautiful place whatever the season. Ms Callen writes wonderful, caring characters and this one involved a mystery from decades prior which Grace was determined to solve. Snowy Mountains Cattleman is a read I highly recommend – as I do with all this author’s books.
With thanks to HarperCollins AU for my ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
January 7, 2023
Grace Davenport has traveled to the Snowy Mountains from Sydney, she bought an old bluestone property called Crookwell Park and she’s an interior designer. Her plan is to spend the summer in Bundilla, have a much needed break and she has no idea what she will do next? Grace is an only child, her parents both passed away and their deaths has dimmed her light and she’s lost without them.
Rowan Parker lives in Bundilla, he runs cattle in the high country and works as a stonemason. His last romantic relationship ended badly, he’s decided to stay single and Rowan's constantly on the lookout for the town’s matchmakers. He and Grace are both rather shocked when they first meet, she hired Rowan online to restore the former mansion and he can’t understand why a city girl like her would want to stay in a possum infested cottage!
Once Grace has her possum problem sorted, she can’t believe how much she enjoys living in the country, it’s peaceful and everyone is really friendly. Rowan puts up his scaffold, he starts working on the rundown house and he can’t help but notice how beautiful his new boss is.
Grace starts cleaning out the undamaged areas of the mansion, while Rowan starts on the stonework and she uncovers a secret room. Stepping inside is like going back in time to the early 1950’s and Grace is determined to discover who lived here and why?
I really enjoyed reading Snowy Mountains Cattleman and it’s the second novel in the Bundilla series, it’s full of familiar characters from, Snowy Mountains Daughter, Clancy, Brenna, Heath, Taite and Bundy the wandering kelpie. Grace really came out of her shell in the narrative, I loved how she started dressing differently, tried new things and her growing menagerie of animals. The highlights of the story for me were, Grace and Rowan's budding romance, the reclusive older neighbour Frank, the mystery surrounding what happened at Crookwell Park and the Lawrence families secrets. I can’t wait to read the next novel in the series, Snowy Mountains Promise, Alissa Callen sums up life in a small Australian country town perfectly, when driving around you must wave to everyone and five big stars.
Rowan Parker lives in Bundilla, he runs cattle in the high country and works as a stonemason. His last romantic relationship ended badly, he’s decided to stay single and Rowan's constantly on the lookout for the town’s matchmakers. He and Grace are both rather shocked when they first meet, she hired Rowan online to restore the former mansion and he can’t understand why a city girl like her would want to stay in a possum infested cottage!
Once Grace has her possum problem sorted, she can’t believe how much she enjoys living in the country, it’s peaceful and everyone is really friendly. Rowan puts up his scaffold, he starts working on the rundown house and he can’t help but notice how beautiful his new boss is.
Grace starts cleaning out the undamaged areas of the mansion, while Rowan starts on the stonework and she uncovers a secret room. Stepping inside is like going back in time to the early 1950’s and Grace is determined to discover who lived here and why?
I really enjoyed reading Snowy Mountains Cattleman and it’s the second novel in the Bundilla series, it’s full of familiar characters from, Snowy Mountains Daughter, Clancy, Brenna, Heath, Taite and Bundy the wandering kelpie. Grace really came out of her shell in the narrative, I loved how she started dressing differently, tried new things and her growing menagerie of animals. The highlights of the story for me were, Grace and Rowan's budding romance, the reclusive older neighbour Frank, the mystery surrounding what happened at Crookwell Park and the Lawrence families secrets. I can’t wait to read the next novel in the series, Snowy Mountains Promise, Alissa Callen sums up life in a small Australian country town perfectly, when driving around you must wave to everyone and five big stars.
May 14, 2022
Snowy Mountains Cattleman by Alissa Callen
Synopsis /
Interior stylist Grace Davenport has come to the mountains for solitude and a place to heal after her parents' death. Returning to their beloved town of Bundilla, she plans to restore a local bluestone mansion in honour of their memory. She'll just be there for the summer, until she figures out her next step.
Rowan Parker never used to think twice about taking risks until his love for a woman blinded him to all common sense. Now, between his cattle farm in the high country and his work as a stonemason, there's no room in his life for further mistakes. But when he meets the beautiful but reserved new owner of the historic mansion he's been hired to rebuild, he realises his best laid plans have run amuck.
Together, Grace and Rowan work to bring the mansion back to life. But when they uncover a hidden trove of post-WWII secrets about the house's former inhabitants, their quest to find answers draws them ever closer. And just when the stone rubble around them begins to resemble a home, a landslide threatens all that Rowan and Grace have rebuilt. With their futures as unstable as the mountainside, each must fight for what they really want, even if it means losing everything.
My Thoughts /
Snowy Mountains Cattleman written by Australian author, Alissa Callen is the second in a linked series which resolves around the rural community of Bundilla, in the Snowy Mountains of New South Wales.
After a run of dark, gritty, violent and suspenseful books, it was just such a pleasure to read this contemporary romance novel by Alissa Callen. Interior stylist, Grace Davenport is grieving. Being an only child, the loss of her parents has hit her hard. Grace’s parents had planned to live out their retirement years in the small rural community of Bundilla, but will now never get that opportunity. Grace feels it's her want to fulfil her parents’ dream, so she has purchased the run-down Crookwell Park homestead - the one that reminded her parents of England, and has plans to renovate the old homestead back to its former glory. So, taking a leave of absence from her interior design business, Grace arrives in Bundilla to immerse all of her time and effort into the renovation project.
Then Grace meets Rowan Parker…the man who works as a stonemason and who will be doing the majority of her renovations…
He slowly straightened. She’d made a career out of sourcing and appreciating gorgeous things. Up close, this man with his high cheekbones and the cleft in his stubbled chin was the embodiment of masculine beauty. His eyes appeared a blue grey, but when he wasn’t wearing a blue shirt she imagined they’d be a soft pewter hue. As his calloused palm slid against hers she reminded herself now wasn’t the time to think about how the shade was her favourite…. Her gaze flew to his. ‘You’re Rowan Parker, the stonemason.'
There are two distinct subplots to get your heart going in Snowy Mountains Cattleman: 1) the growing attraction between Grace Davenport and our Snowy Mountain cattleman, Rowan Parker; and 2) the mystery surrounding the old crumbling bluestone mansion, Crookwell Park homestead.
Callen has developed a full cast of empathetic, charming, and memorable characters - and yes, that also includes some colourful four-legged characters too! Bundy, the town's resident kelpie is a loyal companion, matchmaker and social media sensation. He's loved by everyone in town. Bundy has a sixth sense for who needs his company most and roams the town from person to person. The healing power of animals never ceases to amaze! Meanwhile, the story of Grace and Rowan's romance bubbles along nicely, while at the same time the mysteries of the mansion slowly unfold - working together to restore the mansion Grace (and Rowan) uncover a secret apartment that goes back to the 1950s and World War 2.
Like marshmallows and hot chocolate; like hot apple pie and ice-cream; like pancakes and syrup; and, like hot buttered popcorn, this book will warm your heart.
Synopsis /
Interior stylist Grace Davenport has come to the mountains for solitude and a place to heal after her parents' death. Returning to their beloved town of Bundilla, she plans to restore a local bluestone mansion in honour of their memory. She'll just be there for the summer, until she figures out her next step.
Rowan Parker never used to think twice about taking risks until his love for a woman blinded him to all common sense. Now, between his cattle farm in the high country and his work as a stonemason, there's no room in his life for further mistakes. But when he meets the beautiful but reserved new owner of the historic mansion he's been hired to rebuild, he realises his best laid plans have run amuck.
Together, Grace and Rowan work to bring the mansion back to life. But when they uncover a hidden trove of post-WWII secrets about the house's former inhabitants, their quest to find answers draws them ever closer. And just when the stone rubble around them begins to resemble a home, a landslide threatens all that Rowan and Grace have rebuilt. With their futures as unstable as the mountainside, each must fight for what they really want, even if it means losing everything.
My Thoughts /
Snowy Mountains Cattleman written by Australian author, Alissa Callen is the second in a linked series which resolves around the rural community of Bundilla, in the Snowy Mountains of New South Wales.
After a run of dark, gritty, violent and suspenseful books, it was just such a pleasure to read this contemporary romance novel by Alissa Callen. Interior stylist, Grace Davenport is grieving. Being an only child, the loss of her parents has hit her hard. Grace’s parents had planned to live out their retirement years in the small rural community of Bundilla, but will now never get that opportunity. Grace feels it's her want to fulfil her parents’ dream, so she has purchased the run-down Crookwell Park homestead - the one that reminded her parents of England, and has plans to renovate the old homestead back to its former glory. So, taking a leave of absence from her interior design business, Grace arrives in Bundilla to immerse all of her time and effort into the renovation project.
Then Grace meets Rowan Parker…the man who works as a stonemason and who will be doing the majority of her renovations…
He slowly straightened. She’d made a career out of sourcing and appreciating gorgeous things. Up close, this man with his high cheekbones and the cleft in his stubbled chin was the embodiment of masculine beauty. His eyes appeared a blue grey, but when he wasn’t wearing a blue shirt she imagined they’d be a soft pewter hue. As his calloused palm slid against hers she reminded herself now wasn’t the time to think about how the shade was her favourite…. Her gaze flew to his. ‘You’re Rowan Parker, the stonemason.'
There are two distinct subplots to get your heart going in Snowy Mountains Cattleman: 1) the growing attraction between Grace Davenport and our Snowy Mountain cattleman, Rowan Parker; and 2) the mystery surrounding the old crumbling bluestone mansion, Crookwell Park homestead.
Callen has developed a full cast of empathetic, charming, and memorable characters - and yes, that also includes some colourful four-legged characters too! Bundy, the town's resident kelpie is a loyal companion, matchmaker and social media sensation. He's loved by everyone in town. Bundy has a sixth sense for who needs his company most and roams the town from person to person. The healing power of animals never ceases to amaze! Meanwhile, the story of Grace and Rowan's romance bubbles along nicely, while at the same time the mysteries of the mansion slowly unfold - working together to restore the mansion Grace (and Rowan) uncover a secret apartment that goes back to the 1950s and World War 2.
Like marshmallows and hot chocolate; like hot apple pie and ice-cream; like pancakes and syrup; and, like hot buttered popcorn, this book will warm your heart.
April 29, 2022
Aussie author Alissa Callen is fast becoming another favorite author of mine. Snowy Mountains Cattleman is a real page-turner and I couldn’t put it down. Well developed characters, descriptive settings and a heartwarming storyline are all the things I love in a book. It is an all-around feel-good story and one which I highly recommend. With thanks to Netgalley and the publishers for my digital copy to read and review.
February 25, 2022
Coming back to Bundilla is like coming home to family, I love falling into an Alissa Callen story she brings out the best in her characters, her stories are heartwarming and heartfelt and real page turners and seeing cattleman Rowan find his happiness and the love of his life with City girl Grace was heavenly and beautiful, the setting is gorgeous and I do hope that you pick this one up.
Interior Stylist Grace Davenport needs time to overcome losing her parents she is an only child and when she loses both her mother and father so close she needs to escape and she goes the small Snowy Mountain town of Bundilla, a place her parents wanted to retire to, she has purchased the old mansion Crookwell Park, this is a beautiful bluestone building and she is going to restore it to its original spender. She plans on being there for the summer only but when she meets the stonemason who is going to do the work for her, he is not what she expected.
Rowan has returned home, determined to do better with his life, after losing his parents and getting involved with a woman he shouldn’t have he took off overseas to sort himself out and now it is time to make amends to his sister and anyone else he feels he let down. He is not looking for love or marriage so staying clear of the quilting club and their match making is a must. He is a cattleman and a stonemason and loves what he does and when he meets the young woman who has hired him to work on Crookwell Park he feels something that scares him silly.
While working together to restore the mansion they uncover a secret apartment that goes back to the 1950s and World War 2, Grace and Rowan are determined to get to the bottom of this secret and working close brings them closer they are both feeling emotions that neither of them wanted but neither can ignore.
This is a gorgeous story filled with love and fabulous characters, Rowan and Grace are drawn together by their caring and helpful natures they meld in the most wonderful way, they find their happiness and the way to the future together and I was cheering them on. Bring in some goats and of course Bundy the best dog in the world, I say and meeting up with Clancy and Health, Taite and Brenna and Trent was just the best. There are lots of smiles in this one and some tears of happiness and I loved uncovering the mystery. I can highly recommend this one and can’t wait for the next one I am looking forward to seeing who Taite finds happiness with and if the quilting club has any say in it.
My thanks to Harlequin AU for my copy to read and review.
Interior Stylist Grace Davenport needs time to overcome losing her parents she is an only child and when she loses both her mother and father so close she needs to escape and she goes the small Snowy Mountain town of Bundilla, a place her parents wanted to retire to, she has purchased the old mansion Crookwell Park, this is a beautiful bluestone building and she is going to restore it to its original spender. She plans on being there for the summer only but when she meets the stonemason who is going to do the work for her, he is not what she expected.
Rowan has returned home, determined to do better with his life, after losing his parents and getting involved with a woman he shouldn’t have he took off overseas to sort himself out and now it is time to make amends to his sister and anyone else he feels he let down. He is not looking for love or marriage so staying clear of the quilting club and their match making is a must. He is a cattleman and a stonemason and loves what he does and when he meets the young woman who has hired him to work on Crookwell Park he feels something that scares him silly.
While working together to restore the mansion they uncover a secret apartment that goes back to the 1950s and World War 2, Grace and Rowan are determined to get to the bottom of this secret and working close brings them closer they are both feeling emotions that neither of them wanted but neither can ignore.
This is a gorgeous story filled with love and fabulous characters, Rowan and Grace are drawn together by their caring and helpful natures they meld in the most wonderful way, they find their happiness and the way to the future together and I was cheering them on. Bring in some goats and of course Bundy the best dog in the world, I say and meeting up with Clancy and Health, Taite and Brenna and Trent was just the best. There are lots of smiles in this one and some tears of happiness and I loved uncovering the mystery. I can highly recommend this one and can’t wait for the next one I am looking forward to seeing who Taite finds happiness with and if the quilting club has any say in it.
My thanks to Harlequin AU for my copy to read and review.
April 11, 2022
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Snowy Mountains Cattleman by Alissa Callen. (2022).
(A Bundilla novel; #2)
**Thank you to HarperCollins Australia for sending me a free copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review; published 2 February 2022**
Interior stylist Grace has come to the mountains for solitude and to heal emotionally. She is planning to spend the summer to restore a local bluestone mansion in honor of her parents' memory. Rowan has been hurt by a woman, so he's keeping busy with his cattle farm and his work as a stonemason. But when he meets the beautiful and reserved Grace, he is instantly drawn to her. Together Grace and Rowan work to bring the mansion back to life. They discover a hidden trove of secrets in the house, and then a landslide threatens all they have rebuilt. With their futures unstable like the mountainside, they must fight for what they really want...
I was looking forward to reading about Bundilla again, featuring Bundy the sweet doggy. Even though this is technically the second novel, you could absolutely read this as a standalone (however I would recommend the first novel, 'Snowy Mountains Daughter' as it's also a good read). Grace is a beautiful, intelligent and kind woman who is a bit reserved and isolated after losing both her parents. Rowan is a handsome, handy and nice man who is trying to be reserved after having his heart broken while grieving his parents. Grace and Rowan are basically made for each other and the book is them slowly working that out haha. There is a compelling mystery when Grace discovers a secret apartment hidden in the mansion; I think this complemented the romance nicely.
Overall: happily recommend for any readers looking for a great mix of rural romance, a bit of mystery and ''contemporary life fiction'. I look forward to more novels set in the lovely Bundilla!
*www.facebook.com/onewomansbbr
Snowy Mountains Cattleman by Alissa Callen. (2022).
(A Bundilla novel; #2)
**Thank you to HarperCollins Australia for sending me a free copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review; published 2 February 2022**
Interior stylist Grace has come to the mountains for solitude and to heal emotionally. She is planning to spend the summer to restore a local bluestone mansion in honor of her parents' memory. Rowan has been hurt by a woman, so he's keeping busy with his cattle farm and his work as a stonemason. But when he meets the beautiful and reserved Grace, he is instantly drawn to her. Together Grace and Rowan work to bring the mansion back to life. They discover a hidden trove of secrets in the house, and then a landslide threatens all they have rebuilt. With their futures unstable like the mountainside, they must fight for what they really want...
I was looking forward to reading about Bundilla again, featuring Bundy the sweet doggy. Even though this is technically the second novel, you could absolutely read this as a standalone (however I would recommend the first novel, 'Snowy Mountains Daughter' as it's also a good read). Grace is a beautiful, intelligent and kind woman who is a bit reserved and isolated after losing both her parents. Rowan is a handsome, handy and nice man who is trying to be reserved after having his heart broken while grieving his parents. Grace and Rowan are basically made for each other and the book is them slowly working that out haha. There is a compelling mystery when Grace discovers a secret apartment hidden in the mansion; I think this complemented the romance nicely.
Overall: happily recommend for any readers looking for a great mix of rural romance, a bit of mystery and ''contemporary life fiction'. I look forward to more novels set in the lovely Bundilla!
August 14, 2022
https://theburgeoningbookshelf.blogsp...
It was so good to be back in Bundilla catching up on the lives of some familiar characters!
Rowan has returned from the UK and is scheduled to work on the restoration of the old Russell mansion, Crookwell Park.
Grace has a busy interior design business in Sydney and arrives in Bundilla to oversee the restoration of Crookwell Park. Her mother had always loved the old building and this was something she could do to remember both parents now they had passed away.
I just love a tentative romance story! Both Grace and Rowan have trauma they need to work through. Rowan, a broken relationship and Grace, the death of her parents. And they both know Grace is only there for the summer.
Alissa Callen has delivered again in Snowy Mountains Cattleman! We get to see Bundilla's beautiful sense of community and kinship and the gorgeous snowy mountains region in all its glory through a summer season. There are characters we have grown to love popping in and out of the story and a new character to love in Grace, who slowly opens up to the residents of Bundilla and calls them friends. Who could resist befriending Clancy, the flower farmer from Snowy Mountains Daughter.
Bundy, the town's resident kelpie is back in another starring role as companion, matchmaker and social media sensation and he adopts Grace as soon as she arrives in town.
Alissa Callen gives her readers an old mansion with long held secrets, country life, mysteries, suspense and romance all packed together in a heart-warming story of recovery.
Snowy Mountains Cattleman gets all the stars!!!! Alissa Callen's writing is consistently entertaining.
*I received my copy from the publisher
It was so good to be back in Bundilla catching up on the lives of some familiar characters!
Rowan has returned from the UK and is scheduled to work on the restoration of the old Russell mansion, Crookwell Park.
Grace has a busy interior design business in Sydney and arrives in Bundilla to oversee the restoration of Crookwell Park. Her mother had always loved the old building and this was something she could do to remember both parents now they had passed away.
I just love a tentative romance story! Both Grace and Rowan have trauma they need to work through. Rowan, a broken relationship and Grace, the death of her parents. And they both know Grace is only there for the summer.
Alissa Callen has delivered again in Snowy Mountains Cattleman! We get to see Bundilla's beautiful sense of community and kinship and the gorgeous snowy mountains region in all its glory through a summer season. There are characters we have grown to love popping in and out of the story and a new character to love in Grace, who slowly opens up to the residents of Bundilla and calls them friends. Who could resist befriending Clancy, the flower farmer from Snowy Mountains Daughter.
Bundy, the town's resident kelpie is back in another starring role as companion, matchmaker and social media sensation and he adopts Grace as soon as she arrives in town.
Alissa Callen gives her readers an old mansion with long held secrets, country life, mysteries, suspense and romance all packed together in a heart-warming story of recovery.
Snowy Mountains Cattleman gets all the stars!!!! Alissa Callen's writing is consistently entertaining.
*I received my copy from the publisher
August 7, 2022
A great book with interesting characters, a bit of mystery and Bundy the dog. I look forward to meeting these characters again.
March 15, 2022
There's something for everyone in Alissa’s latest offering, Snowy Mountains Cattlemen. When you are looking for that light and lovable read, look no further especially if you like a few more ingredients than the prerequisite romance. Alissa brings all the small town feels of a picturesque countryside along with a mystery surrounding an old homestead renovation.
This is such a light and lovely feel good book to read. The characters in the fictional Bundilla are regular folk you would more than likely meet and mix with on your travels. The leads - Grace and Rowan - having both lost their parents, share their journeys when dealing with grief. As Grace tries to realise her parents’ dream to purchase and renovate the run-down Crookwell Park homestead she employs cattleman and pastime stone mason, Rowan. I love how their romance swam along as they wavered and weaved in their healing journeys.
Snowy Mountains Cattlemen is the second in the Bundilla series but can definitely be read as a standalone. As always, the experience would be that much richer when familiar faces appear, but I had not read book one. I would certainly love to return to this heartwarming community with promised future installments in this lovely series. The added bonus of a somewhat derelict homestead slowly revealing its hidden secrets from the past brought not only a joint project for Grace and Rowan to work on together but also added another layer to the story.
A country girl herself, Alissa brings real authenticity to the locale, capturing the genuine charm of the community. Snowy Mountains Cattlemen is an engaging tale with all the small town antics, a homestead mystery and well matched romantic leads that helped make this a delightful escapism.
‘Today had been the first step in reshaping the landscape of her new life. When the days shortened and the mountain weather cooled, she needed to have found a way through her grief for she had nowhere left to go.’
This review is based on a complimentary copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. The quoted material may have changed in the final release.
This is such a light and lovely feel good book to read. The characters in the fictional Bundilla are regular folk you would more than likely meet and mix with on your travels. The leads - Grace and Rowan - having both lost their parents, share their journeys when dealing with grief. As Grace tries to realise her parents’ dream to purchase and renovate the run-down Crookwell Park homestead she employs cattleman and pastime stone mason, Rowan. I love how their romance swam along as they wavered and weaved in their healing journeys.
Snowy Mountains Cattlemen is the second in the Bundilla series but can definitely be read as a standalone. As always, the experience would be that much richer when familiar faces appear, but I had not read book one. I would certainly love to return to this heartwarming community with promised future installments in this lovely series. The added bonus of a somewhat derelict homestead slowly revealing its hidden secrets from the past brought not only a joint project for Grace and Rowan to work on together but also added another layer to the story.
A country girl herself, Alissa brings real authenticity to the locale, capturing the genuine charm of the community. Snowy Mountains Cattlemen is an engaging tale with all the small town antics, a homestead mystery and well matched romantic leads that helped make this a delightful escapism.
‘Today had been the first step in reshaping the landscape of her new life. When the days shortened and the mountain weather cooled, she needed to have found a way through her grief for she had nowhere left to go.’
This review is based on a complimentary copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. The quoted material may have changed in the final release.
January 30, 2022
Thank you Harlequin for sending us a copy to read and review.
Welcome back to Bundilla.
A story of small town community spirit, a new romance, a renovation, country vibes and a mystery behind a locked door.
Grace Davenport arrives in Bundilla to restore a local manor in honour of her parents passing away.
She will spend the summer busy renovating and healing until the next phase of her life.
Rowan Parker works on his farm and does some stonemason labour as well.
He’s far too busy for romance and for taking risks like he has done in the past.
Grace hires Rowan and keeping it hidden from the other, an attraction builds.
While remodelling they find an hidden room with concealed secrets and as they try to uncover the truth, the fates work their magic and love blossoms.
But nothing is ever as simple as that……….
We return to the town that greets all with an embrace and open arms.
You feel acceptance and hospitality in the opening chapters.
One of our leading rural novelists pens another addictive tale of gentle dreamy passion, new beginnings, a long buried secret and community ties.
What I’m loving with this new series as we have the warm rural romance and honest outback life, there’s the added mystery twist woven throughout.
Great characters, entertaining plot, the chemistry between the two leads, resilience and the beauty where the cast reside are just some of the pleasing goods about this book.
Alissa lives on the land so with her first hand experience, devotion and knowledge it makes these wonderful stories more authentic, genuine and heartfelt.
I heartily anticipate my return trip to Bundilla very soon with Taite’s story next.
Welcome back to Bundilla.
A story of small town community spirit, a new romance, a renovation, country vibes and a mystery behind a locked door.
Grace Davenport arrives in Bundilla to restore a local manor in honour of her parents passing away.
She will spend the summer busy renovating and healing until the next phase of her life.
Rowan Parker works on his farm and does some stonemason labour as well.
He’s far too busy for romance and for taking risks like he has done in the past.
Grace hires Rowan and keeping it hidden from the other, an attraction builds.
While remodelling they find an hidden room with concealed secrets and as they try to uncover the truth, the fates work their magic and love blossoms.
But nothing is ever as simple as that……….
We return to the town that greets all with an embrace and open arms.
You feel acceptance and hospitality in the opening chapters.
One of our leading rural novelists pens another addictive tale of gentle dreamy passion, new beginnings, a long buried secret and community ties.
What I’m loving with this new series as we have the warm rural romance and honest outback life, there’s the added mystery twist woven throughout.
Great characters, entertaining plot, the chemistry between the two leads, resilience and the beauty where the cast reside are just some of the pleasing goods about this book.
Alissa lives on the land so with her first hand experience, devotion and knowledge it makes these wonderful stories more authentic, genuine and heartfelt.
I heartily anticipate my return trip to Bundilla very soon with Taite’s story next.
August 4, 2022
"The road home isn't for the faint-hearted.." Snowy Mountain Cattleman
Grace Davenport following in her parent’s dreams, of moving to the country to restore a heritage home to call their own for the rest of their days. However, the rest of their lives was shorter than planned. Heavy with grief, Grace purchases the historic Crookwell Park a bluestone building. Unseen! with big plans to restore, using her well earn holidays before heading back to the city.
When she stops by Bundilla to get supplies. Bundy has found his newest person who needs his company. Unsure and shocked by the dog, it takes a few kind words for the community for Grace to realize that she won’t be alone.
Rowan, after having his heart smashed into the dirt by his ex, escapes his heartache by charging into worldly experiences, Rowan has decided it is time to come back to Bundilla. His not interested in relationships, swearing off women to focus on stone mansion business and his cattle. He has been commissioned to restore a bluestone manor.
Together Grace and Rowan work hard to restore the manor, to they unearth decades of hidden secrets. Determined to answer the questions they have unearthed, working together Rowan and Grace brings them closer, having feelings that neither want to ignore or want to act on. With torrential rain, creates a landslide threating all their hard work, make them both realise there is something more there, something they both want.
This is the second novel in the Bundilla by Alissa Callen. Alissa is fast becoming one of my favourite contemporary rural romance authors. Once again, I audio book this one. I found it hard to stop listening. The heart-warming and well-developed characters, once again a stunning landscape of bundilla and mountainous surroundings. Lots of smiles and ah! moments, and just when you think you know what’s happening there’s twist. I utterly enjoyed uncovering the mysteries of Crookwell Park.
Check my blog for more novel reviews www.aimeeauthor.com.au
Grace Davenport following in her parent’s dreams, of moving to the country to restore a heritage home to call their own for the rest of their days. However, the rest of their lives was shorter than planned. Heavy with grief, Grace purchases the historic Crookwell Park a bluestone building. Unseen! with big plans to restore, using her well earn holidays before heading back to the city.
When she stops by Bundilla to get supplies. Bundy has found his newest person who needs his company. Unsure and shocked by the dog, it takes a few kind words for the community for Grace to realize that she won’t be alone.
Rowan, after having his heart smashed into the dirt by his ex, escapes his heartache by charging into worldly experiences, Rowan has decided it is time to come back to Bundilla. His not interested in relationships, swearing off women to focus on stone mansion business and his cattle. He has been commissioned to restore a bluestone manor.
Together Grace and Rowan work hard to restore the manor, to they unearth decades of hidden secrets. Determined to answer the questions they have unearthed, working together Rowan and Grace brings them closer, having feelings that neither want to ignore or want to act on. With torrential rain, creates a landslide threating all their hard work, make them both realise there is something more there, something they both want.
This is the second novel in the Bundilla by Alissa Callen. Alissa is fast becoming one of my favourite contemporary rural romance authors. Once again, I audio book this one. I found it hard to stop listening. The heart-warming and well-developed characters, once again a stunning landscape of bundilla and mountainous surroundings. Lots of smiles and ah! moments, and just when you think you know what’s happening there’s twist. I utterly enjoyed uncovering the mysteries of Crookwell Park.
Check my blog for more novel reviews www.aimeeauthor.com.au
February 4, 2022
There's something for everyone in Alissa Callen's new book! If the fleeting love story doesn't grab you, there's a mystery surrounding an old mansion that may pique your interest. Failing these, the going ons in the small country town of Bundilla definitely will!
This outing in the Bundilla series involves Heath Parker and new girl Grace Davenport. We met Heath last time, and since then he's moved back home with a broken heart. The stonemason isn't looking at getting involved with anyone else... Until he meets Grace, who is his new boss.
Grace is in Bundilla to restore Crookwell Park, a rambling mansion that locals believe is cursed. However, she's only planning to stay for the summer. Grace isn't interested in getting to know anyone at all, prefering her own company. And there's a good reason, for she is grieving for her parents who both passed recently. For Grace, renovating the property is a way to rebuild her life.
As summer progresses, Heath and Grace both start to heal. Pretty soon, they also realise that they are in love... The question is, will Grace return to her old life in Sydney at summer's end, or choose to stay in Bundilla where it's obvious she's at home?
It was lovely to catch up with familiar faces and meet new ones! Bundy, the nomad Kelpie also makes a very welcome re- appearance as he stays with Grace. The included mystery was very intriguing as well! I do hope we hear more about Aubrey and Frank in future books, as I found them both to be very strong and likeable characters.
Apparently the next novel is Taite's story, and I can't wait to read it!
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟/5
This outing in the Bundilla series involves Heath Parker and new girl Grace Davenport. We met Heath last time, and since then he's moved back home with a broken heart. The stonemason isn't looking at getting involved with anyone else... Until he meets Grace, who is his new boss.
Grace is in Bundilla to restore Crookwell Park, a rambling mansion that locals believe is cursed. However, she's only planning to stay for the summer. Grace isn't interested in getting to know anyone at all, prefering her own company. And there's a good reason, for she is grieving for her parents who both passed recently. For Grace, renovating the property is a way to rebuild her life.
As summer progresses, Heath and Grace both start to heal. Pretty soon, they also realise that they are in love... The question is, will Grace return to her old life in Sydney at summer's end, or choose to stay in Bundilla where it's obvious she's at home?
It was lovely to catch up with familiar faces and meet new ones! Bundy, the nomad Kelpie also makes a very welcome re- appearance as he stays with Grace. The included mystery was very intriguing as well! I do hope we hear more about Aubrey and Frank in future books, as I found them both to be very strong and likeable characters.
Apparently the next novel is Taite's story, and I can't wait to read it!
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟/5
February 14, 2022
I always find myself smiling when I dive into the pages of an Alissa Callen story and that was certainly the case as I read Snowy Mountains Cattleman. I enjoyed returning to the fictitious Snowy Mountains town of Bundilla, where many of the characters were already familiar to me and I felt immediately at home.
This book has been just so easy to read. The characters are just the sort of people you’d meet in any Australian country town. Grace and Rowan have both lost their parents, though they each dealt with their grief differently. For Grace it’s all about realising her parents’ dream to purchase and rejuvenate the run-down Crookwell Park homestead that reminded them of England. Rowan went off the rails when his parents died in a European river boat accident, entering into an ill-advised engagement that he subsequently broke and then travelling to England in a bid to regroup. I loved that as these two got to know each other they also helped each other heal. Their romance bubbles along nicely while at the same time they delve into the mystery of a hidden apartment they’ve found within the building. The story is enhanced by the presence of matchmaking dog Bundie, who attaches himself to Grace immediately after she arrives in Bundilla. This is a dog with personality plus! It’s been an absolute pleasure to read this story, and I’m very grateful to Harlequin Australia for giving me the opportunity. This book is perfect relaxed summer reading.
This book has been just so easy to read. The characters are just the sort of people you’d meet in any Australian country town. Grace and Rowan have both lost their parents, though they each dealt with their grief differently. For Grace it’s all about realising her parents’ dream to purchase and rejuvenate the run-down Crookwell Park homestead that reminded them of England. Rowan went off the rails when his parents died in a European river boat accident, entering into an ill-advised engagement that he subsequently broke and then travelling to England in a bid to regroup. I loved that as these two got to know each other they also helped each other heal. Their romance bubbles along nicely while at the same time they delve into the mystery of a hidden apartment they’ve found within the building. The story is enhanced by the presence of matchmaking dog Bundie, who attaches himself to Grace immediately after she arrives in Bundilla. This is a dog with personality plus! It’s been an absolute pleasure to read this story, and I’m very grateful to Harlequin Australia for giving me the opportunity. This book is perfect relaxed summer reading.
March 5, 2022
Snowy Mountains Cattlemen is full of charaters that are both warm and memorable.
I loved both the main characters Rowan and Grace, and especially Bundy. In fact, the whole town, despite being new to me, felt very familiar... like some places do even though you've never been there before.
It did take me a while to get into the story, but once the mystery started to unfold I was fully invested. Personally, I thought some of the character reflection scenes were a tad repetitive, about giving each other space, but there were some lovely, heartfelt moments too, as well as a sense of satisfaction when I turned the last page.
Not a tear-jerker, but certainly a story to warm your heart.
This is my first time reading a book by this author, and it won't be the last.
#SnowyMountainsCattleman
#NetGalley
I loved both the main characters Rowan and Grace, and especially Bundy. In fact, the whole town, despite being new to me, felt very familiar... like some places do even though you've never been there before.
It did take me a while to get into the story, but once the mystery started to unfold I was fully invested. Personally, I thought some of the character reflection scenes were a tad repetitive, about giving each other space, but there were some lovely, heartfelt moments too, as well as a sense of satisfaction when I turned the last page.
Not a tear-jerker, but certainly a story to warm your heart.
This is my first time reading a book by this author, and it won't be the last.
#SnowyMountainsCattleman
#NetGalley
May 17, 2022
Snowy Mountains Cattleman takes us back to the fictional small town of Bundilla in the NSW highlands, the second in a series of linked novels which I hope will continue to grow.
Bundilla is quite a close knit town which makes the mystery involved in this story all the more compelling.
Rowan is a cattle farmer and stonemason who has had his heart broken and refuses to allow himself to end up in the same position again. Besides, he has more than enough to keep him busy with the farm and his work as a stonemason.
Grace is an interior stylist trying to heal from the death of her parents. She has made the tree change in honour of her parents memory, buying a bluestone mansion to restore. A job that gets bigger at every turn.
Rowan is employed to help with the restoration and the two share a similar vision for how best to bring the mansion back. Together they uncover a decades old mystery that is compelling to follow.
A heart-warming tale that I did not want to put down.
Bundilla is quite a close knit town which makes the mystery involved in this story all the more compelling.
Rowan is a cattle farmer and stonemason who has had his heart broken and refuses to allow himself to end up in the same position again. Besides, he has more than enough to keep him busy with the farm and his work as a stonemason.
Grace is an interior stylist trying to heal from the death of her parents. She has made the tree change in honour of her parents memory, buying a bluestone mansion to restore. A job that gets bigger at every turn.
Rowan is employed to help with the restoration and the two share a similar vision for how best to bring the mansion back. Together they uncover a decades old mystery that is compelling to follow.
A heart-warming tale that I did not want to put down.
March 3, 2022
“Snowy Mountains Cattleman” is a pleasant romance which I enjoyed reading, but it’s not overly memorable. Still, romance fans will enjoy this, and Callen fans in particular will appreciate the return to a familiar setting.
Grace Davenport has just moved to small town Bundilla. Still reeling from her parents’ death, only days apart, she’s bought a crumbling bluestone mansion and is going to restore it in honour of their memory. She hasn’t decided whether she’ll stay after the restoration, or return to Sydney.
Rowan Parker has lived in Bundilla all his life, and some regard him as socially elite because of his family’s long connection to the area. He divides his time between his cattle and work as a stonemason. When Grace hires him to help restore her mansion, he finds another interest: the sad-eyed woman who’s slowly emerging from her grief and re-engaging with the world.
Both are used to guarding their hearts after past hurts. And neither is interested in a casual relationship. But perhaps these two can find a way to bridge the gap between them.
Callen’s previous readers will remember Bundilla, and many of the characters in it. They’ve previously appeared in “Snowy Mountains Daughter”, a charming romance. (A link to my review appears below.) New readers won’t find it a problem to step in with no previous knowledge. However, continuing readers will no doubt be charmed to see a little more of some of the quirky characters, and to get a glimpse of what’s been happening for some favorites. In that sense, this novel contains mild spoilers for “Snowy Mountains Daughter”.
Characters are all important in a romance, I find. Callen has developed a cast full of empathetic, charming, and engaging characters. Grace and Rowan are fully rounded and will quickly have the support and sympathy of readers. The supporting cast is equally strong: I found Aubrey, Grace’s best friend, particularly enjoyable. Frank, Grace’s neighbour is not so immediately engaging, but grew on me. And all the inhabitants of Bundilla, including the irrepressibly matchmaking quilting club, are quite delightful. Particularly as their attentions aren’t focused on me!
One thing that I find a touch jarring is that the size of Bundilla doesn’t seem consistent. On the one hand, there are only three eligible males in town for the matchmaking ladies to focus on, suggesting it’s tiny. But on the other hand, it’s big enough that no-one has ever realised Frank lives on the outskirts, it seems to support quite a wide range of shops, and the place is just teeming with slightly older people. This doesn’t really matter much; it just niggled at me and messed with my sense of place.
This was an enjoyable read. Look, I had a pretty good idea where it was going from page one. Let’s be honest, you probably do too, just from the blurb. But it was fun to get there, and ultimately felt very satisfying. It’s well written, the characters are strong, and Bundilla is a charming creation. Lots of people are going to enjoy this thoroughly, and so they should.
But will it stand out in my memory? Probably not. I’m not sure that matters, though; this is a piece of excellent entertainment. It doesn’t have to go down in the annals of literature to make people happy.
If you enjoyed this review, please visit www.otherdreamsotherlives.home.blog to read more, including a review of Alissa Callen’s “Snowy Mountains Daughter”.
Grace Davenport has just moved to small town Bundilla. Still reeling from her parents’ death, only days apart, she’s bought a crumbling bluestone mansion and is going to restore it in honour of their memory. She hasn’t decided whether she’ll stay after the restoration, or return to Sydney.
Rowan Parker has lived in Bundilla all his life, and some regard him as socially elite because of his family’s long connection to the area. He divides his time between his cattle and work as a stonemason. When Grace hires him to help restore her mansion, he finds another interest: the sad-eyed woman who’s slowly emerging from her grief and re-engaging with the world.
Both are used to guarding their hearts after past hurts. And neither is interested in a casual relationship. But perhaps these two can find a way to bridge the gap between them.
Callen’s previous readers will remember Bundilla, and many of the characters in it. They’ve previously appeared in “Snowy Mountains Daughter”, a charming romance. (A link to my review appears below.) New readers won’t find it a problem to step in with no previous knowledge. However, continuing readers will no doubt be charmed to see a little more of some of the quirky characters, and to get a glimpse of what’s been happening for some favorites. In that sense, this novel contains mild spoilers for “Snowy Mountains Daughter”.
Characters are all important in a romance, I find. Callen has developed a cast full of empathetic, charming, and engaging characters. Grace and Rowan are fully rounded and will quickly have the support and sympathy of readers. The supporting cast is equally strong: I found Aubrey, Grace’s best friend, particularly enjoyable. Frank, Grace’s neighbour is not so immediately engaging, but grew on me. And all the inhabitants of Bundilla, including the irrepressibly matchmaking quilting club, are quite delightful. Particularly as their attentions aren’t focused on me!
One thing that I find a touch jarring is that the size of Bundilla doesn’t seem consistent. On the one hand, there are only three eligible males in town for the matchmaking ladies to focus on, suggesting it’s tiny. But on the other hand, it’s big enough that no-one has ever realised Frank lives on the outskirts, it seems to support quite a wide range of shops, and the place is just teeming with slightly older people. This doesn’t really matter much; it just niggled at me and messed with my sense of place.
This was an enjoyable read. Look, I had a pretty good idea where it was going from page one. Let’s be honest, you probably do too, just from the blurb. But it was fun to get there, and ultimately felt very satisfying. It’s well written, the characters are strong, and Bundilla is a charming creation. Lots of people are going to enjoy this thoroughly, and so they should.
But will it stand out in my memory? Probably not. I’m not sure that matters, though; this is a piece of excellent entertainment. It doesn’t have to go down in the annals of literature to make people happy.
If you enjoyed this review, please visit www.otherdreamsotherlives.home.blog to read more, including a review of Alissa Callen’s “Snowy Mountains Daughter”.
March 1, 2022
I loved this! Alissa Callen writes such heartwarming, feel-good stories and creates the most appealing communities. I really enjoyed her Woodlea series and this book is the second in a linked series revolving around the rural community of Bundilla, in the Snowy Mountains of NSW. The first book featured flower farmer Clancy and her best friend Heath and in that book we were introduced to Clancy’s brother Rowan, a stonemason who has a job restoring a beautiful local bluestone home purchased recently by Grace Davenport.
Grace’s parents both planned to retire in Bundilla and now that they never got the opportunity, Grace feels like she owes it to them to purchase and restore the beautiful house that they had admired, saying it reminded them of their native England. Grace is still heavily in the grieving period, she’s in Bundilla just for the summer to oversee the restoration, beginning with the outside solidifying the structure before moving to the inside. She’s taken a sabbatical from her interior design business and rented out her city flat to throw herself headlong into the project. She doesn’t really intend to get involved in the town but on the day of her arrival, Bundy the kelpie seems to have other ideas.
It was wonderful to return to Bundilla and some familiar faces, including Clancy, Heath, siblings Brenna and Taite, Bundy of course and a few other colourful locals. When Grace meets Rowan both of them definitely feel a little something but both are also determined to ignore it, neither believing they are in the right place for that at the moment. They spend a lot of time together though, with Rowan always ready to lend a hand with anything Grace might need help with, and sharing plenty of coffees as Rowan works on the house. Grace gets drawn into the local quilting circle and finds herself making friends. And enjoying the slower pace, the charm of the town. And the more she explores the large house she’s bought, the more it reveals to her, including an intriguing mystery that she is fascinated by and determined to learn the truth about.
And so was I! I really got invested in the story of the house and the secrets it had kept for many years. I think it would be so many people’s dream to buy and restore a beautiful old house and discover all these previously unknown things inside it! I liked Grace and Rowan working together and really getting to know each other as well. Although they are both attracted to each other, they’re also both a bit reluctant to act on it for different reasons and so this gives them a lot of time to learn about each other and get to know each other really well. Rowan is also one of the few people that Grace allows herself to be vulnerable with and the pacing felt really perfect for their developing relationship. I also loved the character of Frank and his uncanny ability to turn up at precisely the right time.
There is clearly still quite a few local people that appear in this book that will get their own story in the future and I can’t wait to read them all. I really enjoy this community (Bundy is so fun and usually I really dislike goats but I even found the little goats in this book quite sweet) and it’ll be a pleasure to return to it in the future. There’s always something fun happening, plenty of local events that give the merry band of matchmakers plenty of opportunity. Grace and Rowan connect so well and I just found their developing romance to be such a sweet, gentle read, which honestly, is so what I’m after at the moment. But this book also has so much more than that, the mystery of the house and its secrets kept me incredibly intrigued.
***A copy of this book was provided by the publisher for the purpose of an honest review***
Grace’s parents both planned to retire in Bundilla and now that they never got the opportunity, Grace feels like she owes it to them to purchase and restore the beautiful house that they had admired, saying it reminded them of their native England. Grace is still heavily in the grieving period, she’s in Bundilla just for the summer to oversee the restoration, beginning with the outside solidifying the structure before moving to the inside. She’s taken a sabbatical from her interior design business and rented out her city flat to throw herself headlong into the project. She doesn’t really intend to get involved in the town but on the day of her arrival, Bundy the kelpie seems to have other ideas.
It was wonderful to return to Bundilla and some familiar faces, including Clancy, Heath, siblings Brenna and Taite, Bundy of course and a few other colourful locals. When Grace meets Rowan both of them definitely feel a little something but both are also determined to ignore it, neither believing they are in the right place for that at the moment. They spend a lot of time together though, with Rowan always ready to lend a hand with anything Grace might need help with, and sharing plenty of coffees as Rowan works on the house. Grace gets drawn into the local quilting circle and finds herself making friends. And enjoying the slower pace, the charm of the town. And the more she explores the large house she’s bought, the more it reveals to her, including an intriguing mystery that she is fascinated by and determined to learn the truth about.
And so was I! I really got invested in the story of the house and the secrets it had kept for many years. I think it would be so many people’s dream to buy and restore a beautiful old house and discover all these previously unknown things inside it! I liked Grace and Rowan working together and really getting to know each other as well. Although they are both attracted to each other, they’re also both a bit reluctant to act on it for different reasons and so this gives them a lot of time to learn about each other and get to know each other really well. Rowan is also one of the few people that Grace allows herself to be vulnerable with and the pacing felt really perfect for their developing relationship. I also loved the character of Frank and his uncanny ability to turn up at precisely the right time.
There is clearly still quite a few local people that appear in this book that will get their own story in the future and I can’t wait to read them all. I really enjoy this community (Bundy is so fun and usually I really dislike goats but I even found the little goats in this book quite sweet) and it’ll be a pleasure to return to it in the future. There’s always something fun happening, plenty of local events that give the merry band of matchmakers plenty of opportunity. Grace and Rowan connect so well and I just found their developing romance to be such a sweet, gentle read, which honestly, is so what I’m after at the moment. But this book also has so much more than that, the mystery of the house and its secrets kept me incredibly intrigued.
***A copy of this book was provided by the publisher for the purpose of an honest review***
April 5, 2022
Snowy Mountains Cattleman by Australian author Alissa Callen delivers a healthy dose of love, loss, and discovery. This book is the second in the Bundilla series.
Grace Davenport, an only child is suffering a great loss after recently losing both her parents, she decides to leave her life in Sydney for a few months to return home to Bundilla in the Snowy Mountains, NSW. As an interior stylist, she plans to use her expertise in design to restore an old bluestone mansion in memory of her parents, whilst renovating and heating she hopes to find peace and a new direction in life.
Rowan Parker has returned home to Bundilla after a failed relationship and losing his parents. He knows he must reconcile with his sister but as far as that his only focus is on his cattle farm and his stonemason work, he has no time for anything or anyone else.
Grace hires Rowan to help her work on Crookwell Park. He is immediate attracted to her, but love is the last thing on his mind. While working together they find a mysterious apartment that holds secrets from WWII. As they persevere with uncovering the truth their fondness for one another grows. When there is a threat to the property will their true feelings for one another come to light or separate them?
There was a return of many relatable characters; Brenna and Taite, Clancy, Heath, Trent, and the ladies of the local quilting circle as well as a delight of farm animals and Bundy the likeable Kelpie. The setting in a small country town is magnificent which stimulates the reader's imagination.
Amongst the sadness I laughed a great deal, too. Grace was a resilient woman, with great compassion, reinforcing the “never give up” phrase. I also loved how her, and Rowan’s character developed. This book portrays how only through facing their fears of opening themselves up to one another and letting the other in can a relationship flourish. The chemistry and passion between the two characters were felt through the pages and were perfectly delivered in such an effortlessly descriptive manner.
Once again Alissa Callen has crafted a beautifully romantic work of fiction with plenty of emotional sensitivity, realism, and sweet moments to offer readers. There was a wonderful balance of rough and smooth, and the author always made you feel in safe hands with confident and comforting narration. The dialogue was very effective, moving the plot forward in a natural way.
I highly recommend Snowy Mountains Cattleman and cannot wait for the next novel.
Thank you, beauty and Lace and Harper Collins Publishers for the opportunity to read and review.
Grace Davenport, an only child is suffering a great loss after recently losing both her parents, she decides to leave her life in Sydney for a few months to return home to Bundilla in the Snowy Mountains, NSW. As an interior stylist, she plans to use her expertise in design to restore an old bluestone mansion in memory of her parents, whilst renovating and heating she hopes to find peace and a new direction in life.
Rowan Parker has returned home to Bundilla after a failed relationship and losing his parents. He knows he must reconcile with his sister but as far as that his only focus is on his cattle farm and his stonemason work, he has no time for anything or anyone else.
Grace hires Rowan to help her work on Crookwell Park. He is immediate attracted to her, but love is the last thing on his mind. While working together they find a mysterious apartment that holds secrets from WWII. As they persevere with uncovering the truth their fondness for one another grows. When there is a threat to the property will their true feelings for one another come to light or separate them?
There was a return of many relatable characters; Brenna and Taite, Clancy, Heath, Trent, and the ladies of the local quilting circle as well as a delight of farm animals and Bundy the likeable Kelpie. The setting in a small country town is magnificent which stimulates the reader's imagination.
Amongst the sadness I laughed a great deal, too. Grace was a resilient woman, with great compassion, reinforcing the “never give up” phrase. I also loved how her, and Rowan’s character developed. This book portrays how only through facing their fears of opening themselves up to one another and letting the other in can a relationship flourish. The chemistry and passion between the two characters were felt through the pages and were perfectly delivered in such an effortlessly descriptive manner.
Once again Alissa Callen has crafted a beautifully romantic work of fiction with plenty of emotional sensitivity, realism, and sweet moments to offer readers. There was a wonderful balance of rough and smooth, and the author always made you feel in safe hands with confident and comforting narration. The dialogue was very effective, moving the plot forward in a natural way.
I highly recommend Snowy Mountains Cattleman and cannot wait for the next novel.
Thank you, beauty and Lace and Harper Collins Publishers for the opportunity to read and review.
October 18, 2023
This was the fist Alissa Callen book I read. When I started, I was drawn in by the light, easy reading. The setting, the rural lifestyle, the familiarity of the people just set you at ease you are relaxed into a reading binge. A cup of tea and this book made for a brilliant day off, until I came to the scene with the storm and I had to go adult. Which lead to a bit of a reader's tantrum, and the abandonment of all family relationship and bonding time post dinner while I finished off the story. I feel like I would have liked more suspense and detail in Grace's rescue. Maybe a few more of the rocks falling after Rowan arrived. But otherwise it was a good scene with appropriate emotions. Frank's involvement in the homestead was an easy pick but still a really good storyline that shows not every creepy recluse is a danger.
When in comes to the town, the town folk, their groups and relationships. Being rural myself I saw alot of life in those engagements. I could relate to things that happened, different meetings and groups. My husband, who grew up more remote than I did, had a chuckle and a laugh and managed to add in a few things he thought be there as he related the groups to home - and yes he was right.
If you want an easy read, that describes country life, scandals and relationships. The importance of family and our connections with those we love this book is for you. A light read for your day off that still leaves you trying to solve a puzzle with characters that you feel like you have known for years. I can't wait to get my hands on another book by Alissa Callen.
When in comes to the town, the town folk, their groups and relationships. Being rural myself I saw alot of life in those engagements. I could relate to things that happened, different meetings and groups. My husband, who grew up more remote than I did, had a chuckle and a laugh and managed to add in a few things he thought be there as he related the groups to home - and yes he was right.
If you want an easy read, that describes country life, scandals and relationships. The importance of family and our connections with those we love this book is for you. A light read for your day off that still leaves you trying to solve a puzzle with characters that you feel like you have known for years. I can't wait to get my hands on another book by Alissa Callen.
February 20, 2022
I read this for my Aussie authors challenge to fulfill the categories of new release and romance. Alissa Callen brings us an easy read set in Bundilla in the Snowy Mountains. Grace Davenport is an interior designer grieving her recently deceased parents and returns to their hometown for the summer to renovate an old bluestone house in their honour. She meets the locals, in particular nomadic kelpie Bundy (my favourite character) and the love-shy stonemason Rowan who is working with her. Theirs is a slow-burn, once-bitten twice shy romance. There is also a mystery involving a secret part of the house they uncover and the tragic story of its past inhabitants. The mystery wasn’t overly engrossing but at least it gave the main characters something to occupy themselves with other than drooling over each other for a whole book which is becoming the default in contemporary romance novels! A pleasant light read with a beautiful rural setting
April 9, 2022
Grace is the new owner of a crumbling historic stone mansion, that she bought in tribute to her parents recent death.
Rowan is a local cattle farmer who also happens to be a stonemason who has been hired to restore the mansion to its former glory. Instantly the two have chemistry that they both try to ignore due to their past.
I love that we are back in Bundilla with the fun cast of small town characters. I really enjoyed the fact this was a rural romance but a little less focused on the farming side of things for a change. I lived seeing the growth in the characters and I always love the unravelling of hidden history that the mansion reveals.
If you love Alissa Callen's other books or you enjoy rural romance you will be sure to enjoy this.
Thanks to Netgalley.com and Harlequin Mira for my complimentary eARC copy.
Rowan is a local cattle farmer who also happens to be a stonemason who has been hired to restore the mansion to its former glory. Instantly the two have chemistry that they both try to ignore due to their past.
I love that we are back in Bundilla with the fun cast of small town characters. I really enjoyed the fact this was a rural romance but a little less focused on the farming side of things for a change. I lived seeing the growth in the characters and I always love the unravelling of hidden history that the mansion reveals.
If you love Alissa Callen's other books or you enjoy rural romance you will be sure to enjoy this.
Thanks to Netgalley.com and Harlequin Mira for my complimentary eARC copy.
June 23, 2022
Grace Parker moves back to her home town of Bundilla to heal after the death of her parents. She has purchased a bluestone mansion to restore in her parents memory. She is going to stay during the summer while the restoration is done and she decides what she wants to do with her life.
Enter Rowan Parker, local stonemason, who is helping Grace with the restoration. He has been badly burned by his ex-girlfriend and is not interested in risks anymore.
Whilst the pair are working on the mansion they find hidden secrets from the past and try to piece together what had happened in the building.
An excellent read with really great characters and storyline. Can't wait for the next installment from Alissa Callen.
Enter Rowan Parker, local stonemason, who is helping Grace with the restoration. He has been badly burned by his ex-girlfriend and is not interested in risks anymore.
Whilst the pair are working on the mansion they find hidden secrets from the past and try to piece together what had happened in the building.
An excellent read with really great characters and storyline. Can't wait for the next installment from Alissa Callen.
August 19, 2024
Oh my gosh Grace and Rowans love story - such a great story of coming back to Bundilla for Grace with family connections to work on Crookwell Park - a goat called Ruby - who likes Rowans friend Tait. Rowan the Stonemason who helps Grace rebuild her ancestral home and the mystery man with the mystery story who keeps and eye on the place. Of course you can't forget Bundy the red kelpie...who belongs to no one... he's a town legend.
If you want to get into something really different then the Bundilla series is the one. Love this book #2 in the series. Magical moments, picnics by the water, CWA events and the quilting club, dances and country hospitality amidst the backdrop of the snowy mountains. As a local you always try to work out which town Alissa writes about in this series.
If you want to get into something really different then the Bundilla series is the one. Love this book #2 in the series. Magical moments, picnics by the water, CWA events and the quilting club, dances and country hospitality amidst the backdrop of the snowy mountains. As a local you always try to work out which town Alissa writes about in this series.
February 3, 2025
Snowy Mountains Cattleman is the 2nd book in Alissa Callens Bundilla series. It can definitely be read as a stand alone book though!
Reserved Grace Davenport has come to the mountains to heal after her parents' deaths, buying an old Blyestone mansion to honour their English roots.
Stonemason Rowan Parker has been burned before, he has no plans to be blindsided by a women again but as he and Grace grow closer working on bringing the mansion back to its former glory, neither can hide there growing feelings.
Throw in secrets found in the mansion and a mystery to solve. This book is an enjoyable read, trying to piece together the mystery and how the characters all fit into it, and Grace and Rowan's building romance, I really enjoyed reading it
Reserved Grace Davenport has come to the mountains to heal after her parents' deaths, buying an old Blyestone mansion to honour their English roots.
Stonemason Rowan Parker has been burned before, he has no plans to be blindsided by a women again but as he and Grace grow closer working on bringing the mansion back to its former glory, neither can hide there growing feelings.
Throw in secrets found in the mansion and a mystery to solve. This book is an enjoyable read, trying to piece together the mystery and how the characters all fit into it, and Grace and Rowan's building romance, I really enjoyed reading it
March 18, 2022
I totally loved returning to this beautiful countryside town. And who wouldn’t love returning to visit with Bundy again.
The characters in the book don’t just draw you into their story, but you feel like you are one of the characters you are reading about.
I loved how Roman and Grace had a similar interest in the historic house Grace is restoring.
Clancy and Brenna are also ensuring that Grace is welcomed and they have Roman in their sights in regards to Grace.
Adding the mystery of the beautiful house that is being restored and what they find draw Grace and Roman together.
The characters in the book don’t just draw you into their story, but you feel like you are one of the characters you are reading about.
I loved how Roman and Grace had a similar interest in the historic house Grace is restoring.
Clancy and Brenna are also ensuring that Grace is welcomed and they have Roman in their sights in regards to Grace.
Adding the mystery of the beautiful house that is being restored and what they find draw Grace and Roman together.
January 2, 2023
I loved returning to the fictional town of Bundilla. Alissa has yet again created a story that draws you in and makes you wish you could move to the area she depicts.
Grace and Rowan have both suffered loss in their lives and are still in a space for healing when they are pulled together by the stone mansion Grace has purchased. The secondary story about the mysteries of the mansion was intriguing and heartbreaking.
I loved everything about this story and am looking forward to reading Taite's story in the next Bundilla novel.
Grace and Rowan have both suffered loss in their lives and are still in a space for healing when they are pulled together by the stone mansion Grace has purchased. The secondary story about the mysteries of the mansion was intriguing and heartbreaking.
I loved everything about this story and am looking forward to reading Taite's story in the next Bundilla novel.
March 21, 2022
In a uncertain time, it has been a joy to read this new story by Alissa Callen. Set in the Snowy Mountain town of Bundilla, city girl Grace finds peace as she sets out to renovate an old mansion that turns out to hold a mystery Grace and Rowan, her Snowy Mountain Cattleman, together with the town's close community, simply must solve. A joy to read and I highly recommend this story, the second book in Alissa's new series
January 16, 2024
A lovely read. Once I started I couldn’t put it down. Lovely characters, with not too much emphasis on their emotional short comings. It was lovely to see their relationship develop in the small country (sadly without any Snow) town setting. Loved the CWA girls. They kept the young one hopping.
No woke story lines which was just delightful.
Alissa has written a lovely story with enough drama and suspense to keep you turning the pages.
Yes I recommend this book ✅
No woke story lines which was just delightful.
Alissa has written a lovely story with enough drama and suspense to keep you turning the pages.
Yes I recommend this book ✅
June 30, 2024
I enjoyed this book because of the characters. They seemed complex without being surly. I thought most of the characters were pleasant. Moreover, I really like learning about the Australian bush through these types of stories.
I wasn't interested in the mystery that Callen included in the background. I never am. However, it didn't detract from the story.
I really like Casey Withoos' narration.
I wasn't interested in the mystery that Callen included in the background. I never am. However, it didn't detract from the story.
I really like Casey Withoos' narration.
May 1, 2022
I loved the mystery in this love story set in the Snowy mountains. History fascinates me and the restoration of the old mansion was a wonderful part of the story. I also loved the way Rowan followed his own path and wasn’t too restricted by what he believed might be and how he should handle the situation. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
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