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Charming the Outback
When jaded city girl Maddy McIntrye packs up and leaves Adelaide for a new job in the country, it's not only a chance at a fresh start. Six months ago, the first guy she'd ever loved shattered her heart before moving home to Broken Hill. Deep down inside, Maddy is hoping that living in the same town will give her an opportunity to prove to Luke that she's one temptation he can't resist.
But when she arrives in Broken Hill, Luke White is not the same guy she knew in the city. And it soon seems very clear that he doesn't want her there. Although Maddy settles in quickly, excelling at work and partying with her new friends, she can't understand why Luke is remaining so distant. Particularly when all her instincts are telling her that they're meant to be together - and that he feels the same burning attraction.
As Maddy learns more about Luke's family and background, she begins to understand that his mixed messages are caused by balancing what's expected of him with what he really wants. Maddy gave Luke her heart long ago and, despite their differences, she knows she'll only ever be happy with her hot country boy. But how can she convince him that she's the risk he needs to take?
But when she arrives in Broken Hill, Luke White is not the same guy she knew in the city. And it soon seems very clear that he doesn't want her there. Although Maddy settles in quickly, excelling at work and partying with her new friends, she can't understand why Luke is remaining so distant. Particularly when all her instincts are telling her that they're meant to be together - and that he feels the same burning attraction.
As Maddy learns more about Luke's family and background, she begins to understand that his mixed messages are caused by balancing what's expected of him with what he really wants. Maddy gave Luke her heart long ago and, despite their differences, she knows she'll only ever be happy with her hot country boy. But how can she convince him that she's the risk he needs to take?
276 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 19, 2014
30 people are currently reading
234 people want to read
About the author
Leesa Bow
26 books578 followersBest selling Australian author, Leesa Bow writes alphas with a fierce determination to win, and the women who will push for them to fight harder.
Her love of sports romance came from inspiration from her sporty family.
Leesa loves nothing more than to curl up with a good book, and a glass of South Australian wine.
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Her love of sports romance came from inspiration from her sporty family.
Leesa loves nothing more than to curl up with a good book, and a glass of South Australian wine.
You can sign up for Leesa's email newsletter at: https://landing.mailerlite.com/webfor...
Follow Leesa at:
Website: https://www.leesabow.com
Amazon Author page: http://www.amazon.com/Leesa-Bow/e/B00...
Bookbub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/leesa...
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Leesabowromance
FB Reader group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/46630...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 54 reviews
September 23, 2014
1.5 generous but not generous enough to buy a copy of this book stars
Fucking hell. This book. It infuriated the life out of me. A quick read of the blurb charmed me into thinking that this will be a romance about two lost lovers finding their way back to each other, but what I got was a dull and tedious drama between the two main characters who couldn't set their minds straight regarding their true feelings with one another.
One minute Maddy is all set to get Luke back and the next, she hates him again for not respecting her. Then flash forward to a few hours, and she's more than willing to take him back again. Luke, too, is a fucking wacko. I got so sick of his jealous tendencies. He couldn't stand another guy taking interest in Maddy, yet, when she's all but begging him to give them another chance, he wouldn't give in to her. If he couldn't have Maddy then no one else can. I was all like, "go Maddy run away from him already." That thought actually crossed Maddy's mind, too. But nooooo, of course she couldn't move on from him, they kept on running in circles until we reached chapter 10 where they decided to become friends and take things slow.
And slow it really was as it took another 10 chapters to get to the climax of the story with the middle chapters focusing on the hot and cold relationship between the two which was equal parts boring and repetitive.
The plotting is a disaster. It is one of those of cases where if only the characters had used their damn mouth and talked to each other, then it wouldn't have taken them 10 chapters before they made up and another 10 chapters to find out that your boyfriend of one year's real name isn't only Luke but William Luke a.k.a. Bill White. Confusing? Damn straight. How can one be in a relationship with a person for one year - heck, even a week - and not know his real name? He could be a serial killer, dammit!
The only thing that kept me reading was my bias toward Aussie authors and damn it all because now I'm sad that I no longer have a perfect record to my love for Aussie books. I have long been convinced that Aussies are gods when in comes to writing but this one is a slight exception. The writing was decent. It was the plotting and characterization that made me go insane.
Sigh x 100. Sayonara. I'm out.
ARC was provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Fucking hell. This book. It infuriated the life out of me. A quick read of the blurb charmed me into thinking that this will be a romance about two lost lovers finding their way back to each other, but what I got was a dull and tedious drama between the two main characters who couldn't set their minds straight regarding their true feelings with one another.
One minute Maddy is all set to get Luke back and the next, she hates him again for not respecting her. Then flash forward to a few hours, and she's more than willing to take him back again. Luke, too, is a fucking wacko. I got so sick of his jealous tendencies. He couldn't stand another guy taking interest in Maddy, yet, when she's all but begging him to give them another chance, he wouldn't give in to her. If he couldn't have Maddy then no one else can. I was all like, "go Maddy run away from him already." That thought actually crossed Maddy's mind, too. But nooooo, of course she couldn't move on from him, they kept on running in circles until we reached chapter 10 where they decided to become friends and take things slow.
And slow it really was as it took another 10 chapters to get to the climax of the story with the middle chapters focusing on the hot and cold relationship between the two which was equal parts boring and repetitive.
The plotting is a disaster. It is one of those of cases where if only the characters had used their damn mouth and talked to each other, then it wouldn't have taken them 10 chapters before they made up and another 10 chapters to find out that your boyfriend of one year's real name isn't only Luke but William Luke a.k.a. Bill White. Confusing? Damn straight. How can one be in a relationship with a person for one year - heck, even a week - and not know his real name? He could be a serial killer, dammit!
The only thing that kept me reading was my bias toward Aussie authors and damn it all because now I'm sad that I no longer have a perfect record to my love for Aussie books. I have long been convinced that Aussies are gods when in comes to writing but this one is a slight exception. The writing was decent. It was the plotting and characterization that made me go insane.
Sigh x 100. Sayonara. I'm out.
ARC was provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
August 31, 2014
Leesa Bow excels at this genre with a voice perfectly suited to New Adult. Charming the Outback is a well-written novel to be enjoyed by those who appreciate the excitement and flush of first love. She captures the rollercoaster of emotions experienced by new adults with an ease that assures the reader she knows what she's writing about - confusion, excitement, regret, immaturity, hormone-fuelled reactions.
http://www.kees2create.com.au/the-oth...
http://www.kees2create.com.au/the-oth...
February 4, 2018
This is my first Leesa Bow read and I thoroughly enjoyed it. Charming the Outback has vivid descriptions of Broken Hill and the Aussie Outback, which I enjoyed. I haven’t been that far west, but this country girl could relate to a lot of the settings, having spent a lot of time on properties and in country towns myself.
I really liked Maddy. Luke annoyed the crap out of me. It was a nice conclusion, though I thought Maddy had better chemistry with someone else in the story. You’ll have to read it to find out what I mean. Well executed 5 Stars.
I really liked Maddy. Luke annoyed the crap out of me. It was a nice conclusion, though I thought Maddy had better chemistry with someone else in the story. You’ll have to read it to find out what I mean. Well executed 5 Stars.
July 3, 2015
This review can be found on Latte Nights Reviews with a GIVEAWAY
In Charming the Outback, the reader gets to read about Maddy’s story and her second-chance love story. Maddy packs up and leaves to a new town and it may have to do with the fact that the guy who broke her heart lives there. I love second-chance romance stories a lot so I dived into this story so happy! Maddy has spunk! What Aubree wouldn’t do with Hunter is what Maddy does with Luke—she keeps him at bay after the first temptation and doesn’t forgive him easily. You go, Maddy! The chemistry was sizzling. You could just feel it while reading it.
I thought this story was more on the sweet side and a little slower than the first but it is still quite enjoyable. I read Winning the Player and Charming the Outback without any intentions of reviewing it—maybe that’s why I enjoyed both so much—but I changed my mind and decided to review both books! The secondary characters are also a great addition to the story, even Aubree and Hunter make appearances in this story. I am highly anticipating the third book in the story! I can’t wait for more fun to come my way.
In Charming the Outback, the reader gets to read about Maddy’s story and her second-chance love story. Maddy packs up and leaves to a new town and it may have to do with the fact that the guy who broke her heart lives there. I love second-chance romance stories a lot so I dived into this story so happy! Maddy has spunk! What Aubree wouldn’t do with Hunter is what Maddy does with Luke—she keeps him at bay after the first temptation and doesn’t forgive him easily. You go, Maddy! The chemistry was sizzling. You could just feel it while reading it.
I thought this story was more on the sweet side and a little slower than the first but it is still quite enjoyable. I read Winning the Player and Charming the Outback without any intentions of reviewing it—maybe that’s why I enjoyed both so much—but I changed my mind and decided to review both books! The secondary characters are also a great addition to the story, even Aubree and Hunter make appearances in this story. I am highly anticipating the third book in the story! I can’t wait for more fun to come my way.
August 28, 2015
Omg i really enjoyed reading this story. It was filled with so many raw emotions. It really makes you think about your own life. This book really hit it home for me. And I thank you for that. I'm glad I took the chance to read this story. Can't wait to read more from this author. I'm wondering if there will be another book for this series ??
August 11, 2018
After reading and loving Winning The Player last night, I needed more by Leesa Bow and couldn't wait to pick up Charming The Outback. I've spent the afternoon unable to put down this addictive 5 star read and have just finished it. The story of Maddy and Luke was emotional and the author writes in such a way that you're there with the characters every step of the way. I liked that Charming The Outback followed on from Winning The Player and we get to catch up with some of the characters, but this book can still be read separately and enjoyed just as much. However, I recommend that you read Winning The Player if you haven't already because you get to see how Maddy and Luke first met. Plus you'll learn more about Aubree and Hunter who are another couple you'll love just as much.
Charming The Outback gives the reader a chance to learn more about the Australian outback so many of us have seen on the TV or in films. You'll see how tough life can be, but how everyone comes together and gets the job done. It was so warming to see how welcoming the locals were to Maddy, and the author gives us some lovely characters who become like friends to us just as much as they do to Maddy. Again, Leesa Bow weaves fact and fiction together so beautifully, and you can tell that she has first hand experience of being in Broken Hill. If I ever made it to Australia, I'd definitely want to visit Broken Hill and see the gorgeous sights that this very talented author allows us to visualise with her clever descriptions.
As with Leesa Bow’s other books, this book is well worth the 5 stars I've awarded it. This author is one who I'd happily one click without even reading the blurb because I know I'm guaranteed a fantastic read!
Charming The Outback gives the reader a chance to learn more about the Australian outback so many of us have seen on the TV or in films. You'll see how tough life can be, but how everyone comes together and gets the job done. It was so warming to see how welcoming the locals were to Maddy, and the author gives us some lovely characters who become like friends to us just as much as they do to Maddy. Again, Leesa Bow weaves fact and fiction together so beautifully, and you can tell that she has first hand experience of being in Broken Hill. If I ever made it to Australia, I'd definitely want to visit Broken Hill and see the gorgeous sights that this very talented author allows us to visualise with her clever descriptions.
As with Leesa Bow’s other books, this book is well worth the 5 stars I've awarded it. This author is one who I'd happily one click without even reading the blurb because I know I'm guaranteed a fantastic read!
August 6, 2018
Great small town Aussie Romance.
This was just what I needed. Charming The Outback is a well rounded and robust romance with great characters and a love story that may be low on angst, but is high on gaining reader attention and providing enjoyment.
This is the first book I have read by Leesa Bow, and even being a stand-a-lone, it features characters from another book, so if I’d read Winning The Player first, I would’ve enjoyed catching up with Aubree and Hunter again. I haven’t but I didn’t feel I was missing out on anything. This time we have Maddie who is Aubree’s best friend and Hunter’s cousin. She’s a total city girl from Adelaide, and owns her signature look of beautiful clothes and Jimmy Choos.
Luke’s family heritage is a sheep station in the outback. It’s a long way from anywhere, hot, dusty and full of flies. It not a field of Geology which is what he really wants to do, but when family places a demand on him, it’s the family station life first and foremost with no time for shopping and high city living. He doesn’t believe Maddie would cope, and doesn’t want to force that life on her so he dumps her without a word and moves home.
Things is, Maddie loves Luke, and wants to see if the Aussie Outback is something she can adapt to, so she takes a teaching contract in his small town to test the waters. But, the Luke she finds back in his home town isn’t the Luke she’d spent 10 months getting to know and love. He’s angry and doesn’t want a bar of her, trouble is, it seems the locals are quite taken with the new primary school teacher, and he doesn’t want anyone else near her either!
Luckily for our couple, they’re supported by a great group of secondary characters especially as Maddie is out to prove to Luke that she isn’t the high maintenance city miss that he believes her to be, and that she’s more than capable to learn, change, and most of all, compromise. On his part, Luke has to realise his mistake in breaking things off in the way that he did, and make an attempt to fix things. I have to say I loved this book and if you are the type of reader who loves a good solid small town romance, then this is definitely for you. 4 Stars.
This was just what I needed. Charming The Outback is a well rounded and robust romance with great characters and a love story that may be low on angst, but is high on gaining reader attention and providing enjoyment.
This is the first book I have read by Leesa Bow, and even being a stand-a-lone, it features characters from another book, so if I’d read Winning The Player first, I would’ve enjoyed catching up with Aubree and Hunter again. I haven’t but I didn’t feel I was missing out on anything. This time we have Maddie who is Aubree’s best friend and Hunter’s cousin. She’s a total city girl from Adelaide, and owns her signature look of beautiful clothes and Jimmy Choos.
Luke’s family heritage is a sheep station in the outback. It’s a long way from anywhere, hot, dusty and full of flies. It not a field of Geology which is what he really wants to do, but when family places a demand on him, it’s the family station life first and foremost with no time for shopping and high city living. He doesn’t believe Maddie would cope, and doesn’t want to force that life on her so he dumps her without a word and moves home.
Things is, Maddie loves Luke, and wants to see if the Aussie Outback is something she can adapt to, so she takes a teaching contract in his small town to test the waters. But, the Luke she finds back in his home town isn’t the Luke she’d spent 10 months getting to know and love. He’s angry and doesn’t want a bar of her, trouble is, it seems the locals are quite taken with the new primary school teacher, and he doesn’t want anyone else near her either!
Luckily for our couple, they’re supported by a great group of secondary characters especially as Maddie is out to prove to Luke that she isn’t the high maintenance city miss that he believes her to be, and that she’s more than capable to learn, change, and most of all, compromise. On his part, Luke has to realise his mistake in breaking things off in the way that he did, and make an attempt to fix things. I have to say I loved this book and if you are the type of reader who loves a good solid small town romance, then this is definitely for you. 4 Stars.
August 27, 2014
ARC was provided by the author/publisher via NetGalley in exchange for honest review.
I think this is my first NA book from Aussie author. And I have to say that I kinda confused, mostly when I read the conversation between the characters. There are words, phrases and idioms I didn't get or misunderstood while I read it. Thank goodness there's a dictionary in my ereader and I can also google it whenever I felt like I need a picture rather than an explanation to understand it well. But still I was a bit surprised reading this kind of sentences:
When I read this sentence I thought thongs here is an underwear, though I also think the sentence kinda doesn’t make sense, but whatever, maybe the character wants to tell me that she’s wearing it. But then next thongs I read is
That was when I realized that thongs that I know is different from thongs the author meant. Here’s another example
I have to read it a couple times to make sure that the note that Maddy means is Australian dollars, instead of actual notes.
It isn't a big deal for me, though. In fact I had so much fun learning something new from it.
I liked the main characters, Maddy and Luke well enough. They are quite different from one and another. I think it makes them an interesting couple. And I was curious enough to know why Maddy has to prove to Luke that she has changed. And why Luke had to end their relationship while he knows that he loves her.
However I have a problem to connect with them. I especially didn't quite like their hot and cold relationship. One chapter Maddy is so determine to prove to Luke and herself that she’s fine without him but then when he's around, she's all hot for him before realize that they better stay away from each other and just be friend. Then in other chapters, she can't deny her feeling anymore and flirt with him all the way but he wants to give her time and try to be a gentleman and all. Not that I don't like him being a gentleman, it's just I kinda bored reading those hot and cold feelings.
The story takes place 6 months after Maddy and Luke break up. He says one of his reasons to cut their relationship is she's immature and high maintenance while she keeps saying that she has changed. She isn't the Maddy that Luke used to know. The problem is there aren't much the Maddy before she comes to Broken Hill. I need to see that Maddy so that I can see her changes and understand why Luke thinks she can't live the way he lives. The Maddy before mostly appears in conversation, not through her action. It makes me wondering whether the author other book, the one about Maddy's bestfriend, Aubree and Maddy's cousin, Hunter mentions about Maddy and Luke 10 months relationship.
All in all Maddy and Luke story has enough drama and angst that I quite enjoyed. Thus it's an okay-enjoyable story for me.
I think this is my first NA book from Aussie author. And I have to say that I kinda confused, mostly when I read the conversation between the characters. There are words, phrases and idioms I didn't get or misunderstood while I read it. Thank goodness there's a dictionary in my ereader and I can also google it whenever I felt like I need a picture rather than an explanation to understand it well. But still I was a bit surprised reading this kind of sentences:
”You’re wearing a long dress and heels to go to Silverton and walk through dirt around the local sights. I’m wearing shirts and thongs.“
When I read this sentence I thought thongs here is an underwear, though I also think the sentence kinda doesn’t make sense, but whatever, maybe the character wants to tell me that she’s wearing it. But then next thongs I read is
”I ignored his acid tone, and heard the flip flop of his thongs behind me.”
That was when I realized that thongs that I know is different from thongs the author meant. Here’s another example
”Without thinking, I opened my wallet and flashed a fifty at the barman. Hunter leaned over my shoulder and snared the note from my hand.”
I have to read it a couple times to make sure that the note that Maddy means is Australian dollars, instead of actual notes.
It isn't a big deal for me, though. In fact I had so much fun learning something new from it.
I liked the main characters, Maddy and Luke well enough. They are quite different from one and another. I think it makes them an interesting couple. And I was curious enough to know why Maddy has to prove to Luke that she has changed. And why Luke had to end their relationship while he knows that he loves her.
However I have a problem to connect with them. I especially didn't quite like their hot and cold relationship. One chapter Maddy is so determine to prove to Luke and herself that she’s fine without him but then when he's around, she's all hot for him before realize that they better stay away from each other and just be friend. Then in other chapters, she can't deny her feeling anymore and flirt with him all the way but he wants to give her time and try to be a gentleman and all. Not that I don't like him being a gentleman, it's just I kinda bored reading those hot and cold feelings.
The story takes place 6 months after Maddy and Luke break up. He says one of his reasons to cut their relationship is she's immature and high maintenance while she keeps saying that she has changed. She isn't the Maddy that Luke used to know. The problem is there aren't much the Maddy before she comes to Broken Hill. I need to see that Maddy so that I can see her changes and understand why Luke thinks she can't live the way he lives. The Maddy before mostly appears in conversation, not through her action. It makes me wondering whether the author other book, the one about Maddy's bestfriend, Aubree and Maddy's cousin, Hunter mentions about Maddy and Luke 10 months relationship.
All in all Maddy and Luke story has enough drama and angst that I quite enjoyed. Thus it's an okay-enjoyable story for me.
October 21, 2014
Complimentary copy provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
Maddy has moved from the big city of Adelaide to the remote Outback town of Broken Hill. Reeling from the breakup with her boyfriend Luke, she has accepted a teaching contract in the small town, which also happens to be Luke’s hometown. The contract was the only one that she could secure for full time work, plus there was the added benefit of the possibility of working things out with Luke.
Luke has returned to his hometown in order to work in his field of Geology, as well as working weekends on his family’s station (or ranch as we know it in the States). Due to his uncle’s ailing health, Luke’s presence is required in order to keep the family ranch afloat. While he didn’t necessarily want to call things off with Maddy after their ten month relationship, he believed that small town life was not for her and she would be unwilling to relocate with him to live a more rural life, much less get her hands dirty with manual labour on the station. There is also the problem that is his family, his mother to be exact. She has expectations of Luke, ones that could change his future forever.
Maddy immediately becomes a part of the small town, making friends with her fellow teachers and their friends, many whom have known each other their entire lives, Luke included. When other men start to pay attention to Maddy, Luke must confront his feelings and decide if he is willing to give it another go with her. He has his hands full working seven days a week and Maddy must understand that while Luke wants to make her priority, he has obligations to his family. Maddy goes out of her way to understand the life Luke is living and decides to take two weeks to work on a station to learn the way of life and to see for herself how rough the life can be. All of this is unbeknownst to Luke, who is hiding secrets of his own. When the truth comes out as to Luke’s real identity, can Maddy accept the truth and move on? When a love interest from Luke’s past comes back to Broken Hill, is the possibility of a happily ever after really there?
Charming the Outback was a fast, intriguing read that I had no problem sitting down and reading in one sitting. It kept my interest from cover to cover and I loved the characters, not only in Maddy and Luke, but also in the secondary characters such as Aubree and Hunter (who are featured in the author’s other book, Winning the Player) and Kristen, Rosie, and the rest of the gang. (Each book can be read as a standalone.) My only complaint is that the book ended very abruptly. I really would have like to see more of a resolution to the relationship with Maddy and Luke. There was no epilogue, so while there was a happily ever after, there wasn’t really a follow up in terms of where it went from there. I’d love to see more of this couple either with another book, or as an appearance in another, just as Aubree and Hunter appeared in this one. An easy four stars for this one.
Maddy has moved from the big city of Adelaide to the remote Outback town of Broken Hill. Reeling from the breakup with her boyfriend Luke, she has accepted a teaching contract in the small town, which also happens to be Luke’s hometown. The contract was the only one that she could secure for full time work, plus there was the added benefit of the possibility of working things out with Luke.
Luke has returned to his hometown in order to work in his field of Geology, as well as working weekends on his family’s station (or ranch as we know it in the States). Due to his uncle’s ailing health, Luke’s presence is required in order to keep the family ranch afloat. While he didn’t necessarily want to call things off with Maddy after their ten month relationship, he believed that small town life was not for her and she would be unwilling to relocate with him to live a more rural life, much less get her hands dirty with manual labour on the station. There is also the problem that is his family, his mother to be exact. She has expectations of Luke, ones that could change his future forever.
Maddy immediately becomes a part of the small town, making friends with her fellow teachers and their friends, many whom have known each other their entire lives, Luke included. When other men start to pay attention to Maddy, Luke must confront his feelings and decide if he is willing to give it another go with her. He has his hands full working seven days a week and Maddy must understand that while Luke wants to make her priority, he has obligations to his family. Maddy goes out of her way to understand the life Luke is living and decides to take two weeks to work on a station to learn the way of life and to see for herself how rough the life can be. All of this is unbeknownst to Luke, who is hiding secrets of his own. When the truth comes out as to Luke’s real identity, can Maddy accept the truth and move on? When a love interest from Luke’s past comes back to Broken Hill, is the possibility of a happily ever after really there?
Charming the Outback was a fast, intriguing read that I had no problem sitting down and reading in one sitting. It kept my interest from cover to cover and I loved the characters, not only in Maddy and Luke, but also in the secondary characters such as Aubree and Hunter (who are featured in the author’s other book, Winning the Player) and Kristen, Rosie, and the rest of the gang. (Each book can be read as a standalone.) My only complaint is that the book ended very abruptly. I really would have like to see more of a resolution to the relationship with Maddy and Luke. There was no epilogue, so while there was a happily ever after, there wasn’t really a follow up in terms of where it went from there. I’d love to see more of this couple either with another book, or as an appearance in another, just as Aubree and Hunter appeared in this one. An easy four stars for this one.
September 15, 2014
Maddy is ready for her adult life to begin. She packed up her belongings in Adelaide and moved to a small town in the outback for her first teaching job. The fact she chose Broken Hill as her first placement may have a little (or a lot) to do with a boy who broke her heart six months ago. Luke may think she's a high maintenance city girl but Maddy is out to set him straight. The Luke she meets in Broken Hill isn't the same guy she knew in Adelaide. He doesn't want her in his life - or in his town. Determined not to give up, Maddy embraces all the country has to offer and finds out if she has what it takes to be the girl she thinks Luke wants.
Charming the Outback is one of those fun and romantic reads that you don't want to put down until you know just how everything plays out. Maddy is a determined young woman who wants nothing more than to find out what went wrong with her relationship with Luke. She likes to party and spends her weekends rubbing shoulders with footballers wives and girlfriends. He grew up on a sheep station and has a passion for geology. They seem to have nothing in common. But Maddy knows they were great together and refuses to just let things go. I have to admit moving to his town and befriending his mates probably wasn't the smoothest move but Maddy does make Luke take notice of her.
They have such great chemistry together. I loved reading their interactions and just how their relationship grew and the obstacles they had to face. Maddy does come across at first as Luke's polar opposite but she's determined and stubborn in the best possible way. She really loves Luke and I found myself admiring how she wasn't willing to let his pigheadedness get in the way of what could be the best thing to ever happen to either of them. She's upbeat and has a great camaraderie with her new friends in Broken Hill. And while Maddy is willing to do whatever she can to prove to Luke she can be the woman he needs, she never betrays who she is at heart. As much as she loves love and loves Luke - you can tell she always loves Maddy and won't be someone else just to be with him. I also really enjoyed the setting. You get a small taste of the Aussie outback with the town of Broken Hill being highlighted as well as what day to day life on a sheep station must be like.
You don't need to have read Winning the Player to enjoy Charming the Outback. I have not read Leesa Bow's previous novel which introduced Maddy, Luke and other characters who appear in this book but I don't feel like I missed anything. Everything and everyone made perfect sense within Maddy and Luke's story however I think some events may have been a little more poignant had I read the previous books.
Overall, I thought Charming the Outback was such a sweet story. I loved the secondary characters and how they impacted on the story. But most of all I loved Maddy and Luke.
Charming the Outback is one of those fun and romantic reads that you don't want to put down until you know just how everything plays out. Maddy is a determined young woman who wants nothing more than to find out what went wrong with her relationship with Luke. She likes to party and spends her weekends rubbing shoulders with footballers wives and girlfriends. He grew up on a sheep station and has a passion for geology. They seem to have nothing in common. But Maddy knows they were great together and refuses to just let things go. I have to admit moving to his town and befriending his mates probably wasn't the smoothest move but Maddy does make Luke take notice of her.
They have such great chemistry together. I loved reading their interactions and just how their relationship grew and the obstacles they had to face. Maddy does come across at first as Luke's polar opposite but she's determined and stubborn in the best possible way. She really loves Luke and I found myself admiring how she wasn't willing to let his pigheadedness get in the way of what could be the best thing to ever happen to either of them. She's upbeat and has a great camaraderie with her new friends in Broken Hill. And while Maddy is willing to do whatever she can to prove to Luke she can be the woman he needs, she never betrays who she is at heart. As much as she loves love and loves Luke - you can tell she always loves Maddy and won't be someone else just to be with him. I also really enjoyed the setting. You get a small taste of the Aussie outback with the town of Broken Hill being highlighted as well as what day to day life on a sheep station must be like.
You don't need to have read Winning the Player to enjoy Charming the Outback. I have not read Leesa Bow's previous novel which introduced Maddy, Luke and other characters who appear in this book but I don't feel like I missed anything. Everything and everyone made perfect sense within Maddy and Luke's story however I think some events may have been a little more poignant had I read the previous books.
Overall, I thought Charming the Outback was such a sweet story. I loved the secondary characters and how they impacted on the story. But most of all I loved Maddy and Luke.
August 15, 2018
Charming The Outback is a beautiful story filled with love, angst and determination. I loved watching Maddy and Luke grow both individually and together. Their story felt genuine and real.
September 8, 2014
*ARC provided for an Honest Review*
I'm at lost of words. Honestly, I don't even know what to say. I haven't read a book from this author before so, she's pretty much new to me and this book, Wow. I cant even describe it. I was excited when I was given this ARC because I wanted to read books like this, the getting back together is always my favorite part and this book, well, this book was just slightly different from the others I've read.
Maddy, she's playing hard to get. She is totally the example of real life. I get her mainly because I will be like this when I'm in the situation. If I take a close look at her, I would feel bad because its obvious her emotions are eating her and when her main goal-to make Luke regret for letting her go- is finally gaining its success she was now thinking things through. Though her decision to chase him was immature (I admit it was because there are millions of guys, why chase?) it was reasonable. She's not only trying to win him back but she's also trying to prove something. Not only to Luke but to herself as well.
Oh Luke regrets everything that happened between Maddy and him, alright. His intensions for the sudden break up was for the best and I like him for that. I cant say I am in favor of him because Maddy had suffered after their break up and that must have been a real tough time but if I look on the bright side, he was hurting more because he was the one who broke it off.
THEIR relationship status confuses me. One minute they are so in love, and then the next they are not on speaking terms. For real, both their characters are confusing that is why I dont know what to say. After reading the whole book I was like, 'Okay Woah, what?'
I find this book hanging. So hanging that I start to imagine my own story after it and I love books that makes me want to imagine what happens after. It keeps me interested.
I think this book is recommendable and it definitely deserves my 4 stars.
"You have the power to write your own story, Mads. Beginnings and endings are yours to decide."
I'm at lost of words. Honestly, I don't even know what to say. I haven't read a book from this author before so, she's pretty much new to me and this book, Wow. I cant even describe it. I was excited when I was given this ARC because I wanted to read books like this, the getting back together is always my favorite part and this book, well, this book was just slightly different from the others I've read.
Maddy, she's playing hard to get. She is totally the example of real life. I get her mainly because I will be like this when I'm in the situation. If I take a close look at her, I would feel bad because its obvious her emotions are eating her and when her main goal-to make Luke regret for letting her go- is finally gaining its success she was now thinking things through. Though her decision to chase him was immature (I admit it was because there are millions of guys, why chase?) it was reasonable. She's not only trying to win him back but she's also trying to prove something. Not only to Luke but to herself as well.
"You are my undoing, Maddy."
Oh Luke regrets everything that happened between Maddy and him, alright. His intensions for the sudden break up was for the best and I like him for that. I cant say I am in favor of him because Maddy had suffered after their break up and that must have been a real tough time but if I look on the bright side, he was hurting more because he was the one who broke it off.
THEIR relationship status confuses me. One minute they are so in love, and then the next they are not on speaking terms. For real, both their characters are confusing that is why I dont know what to say. After reading the whole book I was like, 'Okay Woah, what?'
I find this book hanging. So hanging that I start to imagine my own story after it and I love books that makes me want to imagine what happens after. It keeps me interested.
I think this book is recommendable and it definitely deserves my 4 stars.
January 8, 2015
Check out more of my reviews on my blog http://gemmareadstoomuchforittomenorm...
Charming the Outback is the first book I have read by this author. I was gifted a copy of this book by the publisher in exchange for an honest review, so here goes...
This is a marmite book for me, if you are not familiar with marmite it’s a British food that is something you either love or hate.
Well this book splits me in two, I love Maddy she funny and endearing and I genuinely liked her character. She’s someone who I would want to be friends with in real life; something about her was so open and guileless that everyone just wants to be her friend.
For me the Marmite aspect of this book is Luke because I simply HATED him!!! I mean seriously what a douche canoe!!!! (I love that phrase lol) I’ve really tried to find something likable about him but I just can’t!!
He is rude and obnoxious to Maddy, he speaks down to her like she an idiot. Christ he is so incredibly condescending I wanted to reach into the book and slap him!!!
What I don’t understand is what Maddy sees in him?? Apart from the hot sex, which is admittedly quite hot what else does he have going for him? Personally I don’t even think they seem to have any real connection.
In my opinion Maddy is with the wrong guy...... And who you may ask is the right guy??? Well Duhhhh its Zane obviously.
Maddy and Zane have insane chemistry, they flirt and banter and do you know what it’s effortless. Nothing about their relationship is forced or convoluted and I waited, patiently, hoping that Maddy would realize what an idiot Luke was and end up with Zane.
At one point after Luke’s very drunken verbal diarrhea I really thought that Leesa Bow was going to make my dreams come true and Zane a sex god in knights clothing was going to save the day and make Maddy fall madly in love with him. But alas it was not to beL.
For me this could have been a fantastic book if the author had simply had Luke be the knobhead ex that made Maddy realise why her new love interest was so amazing.
Unfortunately the story didn’t pan out that way so Charming the Outback only gets 3 stars from me.
Charming the Outback is the first book I have read by this author. I was gifted a copy of this book by the publisher in exchange for an honest review, so here goes...
This is a marmite book for me, if you are not familiar with marmite it’s a British food that is something you either love or hate.
Well this book splits me in two, I love Maddy she funny and endearing and I genuinely liked her character. She’s someone who I would want to be friends with in real life; something about her was so open and guileless that everyone just wants to be her friend.
For me the Marmite aspect of this book is Luke because I simply HATED him!!! I mean seriously what a douche canoe!!!! (I love that phrase lol) I’ve really tried to find something likable about him but I just can’t!!
He is rude and obnoxious to Maddy, he speaks down to her like she an idiot. Christ he is so incredibly condescending I wanted to reach into the book and slap him!!!
What I don’t understand is what Maddy sees in him?? Apart from the hot sex, which is admittedly quite hot what else does he have going for him? Personally I don’t even think they seem to have any real connection.
In my opinion Maddy is with the wrong guy...... And who you may ask is the right guy??? Well Duhhhh its Zane obviously.
Maddy and Zane have insane chemistry, they flirt and banter and do you know what it’s effortless. Nothing about their relationship is forced or convoluted and I waited, patiently, hoping that Maddy would realize what an idiot Luke was and end up with Zane.
At one point after Luke’s very drunken verbal diarrhea I really thought that Leesa Bow was going to make my dreams come true and Zane a sex god in knights clothing was going to save the day and make Maddy fall madly in love with him. But alas it was not to beL.
For me this could have been a fantastic book if the author had simply had Luke be the knobhead ex that made Maddy realise why her new love interest was so amazing.
Unfortunately the story didn’t pan out that way so Charming the Outback only gets 3 stars from me.
September 2, 2014
Charming the Outback, Leesa Bow
Review from jeannie zelos book reviews
I wasn’t sure about this one but I do enjoy those with an Australian/rural setting, so jumped in wondering how it would work out. Well, it was a real fun read. I enjoyed the snippets of life on a sheep station....with animals they demand attention every day regardless of what else is happening or if its a national holiday!! So I could understand Luke’s dilemma about working elsewhere and running the station, and whether Maddy would cope or grow to resent him. He’d seen how that worked for his parents.... I didn’t understand why he wouldn’t even try with Maddy though – but that girl, she just isn’t one to be put down. I liked her gumption, her outward “show him what he’s lost” idea, but felt she was kidding herself ( as we all do) when she told herself she didn’t want him back. He’d broken her heart, she was in love and thought he felt the same, so to just be dropped, and labelled a city girl, attention seeker was such a shock....but once she’s settled in with her new life and friends she realises that at times she is that city girl. Luke though....once she sees him again she’s lost, all her feelings and the hurt race back, but can she show him he made a mistake giving up on her?
Its a really fun read, from the day to day life she leads, teaching, going out and trying to ride etc to the one step forwards and two back rekindling of their romance. At times I didn’t know where they were either...one moment they were kissing and then arguing and it was all over...
When things went wrong just as they finally seemed to be getting together, I was shocked, knew something must be behind what happened to explain it. I didn’t see that shocker coming. Often the reader can see what's being set up but this time I was taken by surprise which made it all the more fun
Stars: four, it wasn’t one of those heart stopping romances where you hold your breath almost as each page turns, but it was one where I just had to keep reading to know how they’d work out.
ARC supplied via Netgalley and publishers
Review from jeannie zelos book reviews
I wasn’t sure about this one but I do enjoy those with an Australian/rural setting, so jumped in wondering how it would work out. Well, it was a real fun read. I enjoyed the snippets of life on a sheep station....with animals they demand attention every day regardless of what else is happening or if its a national holiday!! So I could understand Luke’s dilemma about working elsewhere and running the station, and whether Maddy would cope or grow to resent him. He’d seen how that worked for his parents.... I didn’t understand why he wouldn’t even try with Maddy though – but that girl, she just isn’t one to be put down. I liked her gumption, her outward “show him what he’s lost” idea, but felt she was kidding herself ( as we all do) when she told herself she didn’t want him back. He’d broken her heart, she was in love and thought he felt the same, so to just be dropped, and labelled a city girl, attention seeker was such a shock....but once she’s settled in with her new life and friends she realises that at times she is that city girl. Luke though....once she sees him again she’s lost, all her feelings and the hurt race back, but can she show him he made a mistake giving up on her?
Its a really fun read, from the day to day life she leads, teaching, going out and trying to ride etc to the one step forwards and two back rekindling of their romance. At times I didn’t know where they were either...one moment they were kissing and then arguing and it was all over...
When things went wrong just as they finally seemed to be getting together, I was shocked, knew something must be behind what happened to explain it. I didn’t see that shocker coming. Often the reader can see what's being set up but this time I was taken by surprise which made it all the more fun
Stars: four, it wasn’t one of those heart stopping romances where you hold your breath almost as each page turns, but it was one where I just had to keep reading to know how they’d work out.
ARC supplied via Netgalley and publishers
February 1, 2015
Charming the Outback is the second book in the series but can be read as a stand alone. It is an Australian-English novel.
This is about Maddy and Luke, who also was in the first book, Winning the Player. Maddy was Aubree's best friend and Hunter's cousin.
Maddy McIntyre is a city girl but leaves Adelaide to take a new teaching job out in the country. She needs and wants a new start because just 6 months prior she had her heart stomped on by her first and only love of her life, Luke. This job just happens to be located in Broken Hill, where Luke's living. She is secretly wishing that Luke will give her another chance to show him that she knows they belong together. She settles in quickly, makes friends and starts partying and living her life.
Luke White has issues and problems that he keeps to himself. In fact, in the 10 months he was with Maddy, he never told her any of his issues. The reason he breaks up with her was because issues at home had finally come to blows so he has to move back home. He breaks off their relationship with reasons such as Maddy being immature and she is high maintenance. He works hard at his station(US it means Ranch) and focuses on his work and getting things back on track. He keeps his mind off Maddy because he is miserable without her but knows its for the best. So to his surprise, he sees Maddy in town and cant believe she is there. He actually is pissed over it. But he cant avoid her forever.
Can Maddy prove to Luke that she is mature and they deserve one another? Will Luke let go of his past and let Maddy in? Can Maddy leave the city life and settle down to be a county girl while truly being happy?
Overall this was a good read. It is full of angst.
My issue is that its a "romance" but the whole book is them going back and forth and it got tiresome. They do act their age. I loved Maddy in the first book but had a hard time liking her in this one.
***Reviewed for Kylie's Fiction Addiction***
This is about Maddy and Luke, who also was in the first book, Winning the Player. Maddy was Aubree's best friend and Hunter's cousin.
Maddy McIntyre is a city girl but leaves Adelaide to take a new teaching job out in the country. She needs and wants a new start because just 6 months prior she had her heart stomped on by her first and only love of her life, Luke. This job just happens to be located in Broken Hill, where Luke's living. She is secretly wishing that Luke will give her another chance to show him that she knows they belong together. She settles in quickly, makes friends and starts partying and living her life.
Luke White has issues and problems that he keeps to himself. In fact, in the 10 months he was with Maddy, he never told her any of his issues. The reason he breaks up with her was because issues at home had finally come to blows so he has to move back home. He breaks off their relationship with reasons such as Maddy being immature and she is high maintenance. He works hard at his station(US it means Ranch) and focuses on his work and getting things back on track. He keeps his mind off Maddy because he is miserable without her but knows its for the best. So to his surprise, he sees Maddy in town and cant believe she is there. He actually is pissed over it. But he cant avoid her forever.
Can Maddy prove to Luke that she is mature and they deserve one another? Will Luke let go of his past and let Maddy in? Can Maddy leave the city life and settle down to be a county girl while truly being happy?
Overall this was a good read. It is full of angst.
My issue is that its a "romance" but the whole book is them going back and forth and it got tiresome. They do act their age. I loved Maddy in the first book but had a hard time liking her in this one.
***Reviewed for Kylie's Fiction Addiction***
October 25, 2014
Charming the Outback was a sweet story about Maddy and Luke trying to make it work again. She is the city girl and he is a country boy with responsibilities. They dated for ten months and then life got in the way. She stayed in the city, while he had to take care of stuff in the country.
Maddy takes a job at a country school to use the contract for a better job in the future and to see Luke again. She didn't like the way things ended and thinks once he sees her he'll realize what he lost. Adapting to the country quickly, Maddy makes friends with some colleagues and starts hanging out at the local watering holes with them. Being a small town and all, she of course runs into Luke who is none to happy to see her.
In the ten months of dating Luke has kept his problems at home away from Maddy. Once they came to a head, he had to let her go while he went back home to take care of things. Now at home he is focused on working and getting use to station life again. (Station is the Australian word for Ranch. I learned a few new terms this time around) He sees Maddy in town, but knows there's a reason they can't work as a couple, so he tries to stay away.
Luke fails. He keeps seeing Maddy out and about. It doesn't help that she has befriended his childhood friend Kristen at work, so Maddy has a better insight to Luke's past. They talk, fight, talk again and fight some more. The back and forth of this "couple" was maddening. Throw in the always sexy Zane and quite the love triangle blossoms.
Maddy has a plan, Luke has a plan, they collide and all hell breaks loose. At the 85% point I wasn't sure things were going to clear up to my satisfaction, however Leesa Bow gives us a completed ending. The book is well written and I was informed this is the second in the Destiny Romance series. I shall be reading the first one next.
Maddy takes a job at a country school to use the contract for a better job in the future and to see Luke again. She didn't like the way things ended and thinks once he sees her he'll realize what he lost. Adapting to the country quickly, Maddy makes friends with some colleagues and starts hanging out at the local watering holes with them. Being a small town and all, she of course runs into Luke who is none to happy to see her.
In the ten months of dating Luke has kept his problems at home away from Maddy. Once they came to a head, he had to let her go while he went back home to take care of things. Now at home he is focused on working and getting use to station life again. (Station is the Australian word for Ranch. I learned a few new terms this time around) He sees Maddy in town, but knows there's a reason they can't work as a couple, so he tries to stay away.
Luke fails. He keeps seeing Maddy out and about. It doesn't help that she has befriended his childhood friend Kristen at work, so Maddy has a better insight to Luke's past. They talk, fight, talk again and fight some more. The back and forth of this "couple" was maddening. Throw in the always sexy Zane and quite the love triangle blossoms.
Maddy has a plan, Luke has a plan, they collide and all hell breaks loose. At the 85% point I wasn't sure things were going to clear up to my satisfaction, however Leesa Bow gives us a completed ending. The book is well written and I was informed this is the second in the Destiny Romance series. I shall be reading the first one next.
November 5, 2014
3.5 stars
I didn't really realize this was more of a New Adult than a 'regular' contemporary romance - the blurb does not lead you to believe this. However, when you start reading and getting to know the characters, you realize they are rather young...and that's when the whole seesaw of emotions and the rollercoaster ride this book is makes total sense. I think you need to keep their ages in mind when you start reading this book; otherwise, you might be asking yourself why they are doing what they are doing.
I enjoyed this book (once I realized this would be more NA than regular contemporary). I was told I would enjoy/understand this story better after reading the first one in the series, Winning The Player, but I'm one of these people who loves spoilers and who will do exactly what they're told not to...so I picked up Charming The Outback first to see if I would feel disconnected with the story if I hadn't read the first book.
Not the case - Maddy and Luke exist as their own, and they have enough going to fuel their story and put you into their world. Thing is, both books have very different worlds, so they each stand alone with their own plot.
I'll admit this series, and this book, particularly, read a lot like a modern soap opera to me. Think The Bold and The Beautiful...or closer to the NA crowd, Gossip Girl. There was the glitz aura in Winning The Player, but Charming The Outback carries the same twisted/convoluted/over the top relationships and passionate love and the reckless impetuosity of young love by young people. If anyone loves the soapie vibe, they're gonna enjoy this book.
I didn't really realize this was more of a New Adult than a 'regular' contemporary romance - the blurb does not lead you to believe this. However, when you start reading and getting to know the characters, you realize they are rather young...and that's when the whole seesaw of emotions and the rollercoaster ride this book is makes total sense. I think you need to keep their ages in mind when you start reading this book; otherwise, you might be asking yourself why they are doing what they are doing.
I enjoyed this book (once I realized this would be more NA than regular contemporary). I was told I would enjoy/understand this story better after reading the first one in the series, Winning The Player, but I'm one of these people who loves spoilers and who will do exactly what they're told not to...so I picked up Charming The Outback first to see if I would feel disconnected with the story if I hadn't read the first book.
Not the case - Maddy and Luke exist as their own, and they have enough going to fuel their story and put you into their world. Thing is, both books have very different worlds, so they each stand alone with their own plot.
I'll admit this series, and this book, particularly, read a lot like a modern soap opera to me. Think The Bold and The Beautiful...or closer to the NA crowd, Gossip Girl. There was the glitz aura in Winning The Player, but Charming The Outback carries the same twisted/convoluted/over the top relationships and passionate love and the reckless impetuosity of young love by young people. If anyone loves the soapie vibe, they're gonna enjoy this book.
November 8, 2014
this is the first book I've read from this author and I want more :)
I loved loved loved Maddy, what a character, she is my type of girl I loved how she just goes for it.
you could tell it wasn't over for her and Luke and I have to say for someone who's main goal was to get back Luke she sure stuck to her guns and did just give in, yes she slipped the first time and slept with him but after she never made it easy for him which I found so refreshing. I loved reading about March learning and the station and getting her hands dirty I think as much as it was for Luke I think it helped her find herself and realise what she wanted.
Luke did get on my nerves at first I found him quite horrible towards maddy when in theory she didn't do anything wrong so he didn't have a good enough reason to be mean, ok he explained why but I didn't think it was good enough reason as to why he seemed so cold towards her :( half way through I admit I found myself falling for Luke, the text messages and how he was around her, remembering little things like her favourite Indian food was so sweet and then we had the other memories and wow what a hot couple :)
I really loved Zane and Kristen. the way they adopted maddy into their group, how they made her welcome in a place where she only knew Luke. the friendships made between them made me love this book even more.
I haven't read Aubrey and hunters book but I will be as I loved them both aswel.
can't forget Jack and the station works :)
all round a sweet romance book that every girl will love and 're read :)
I loved loved loved Maddy, what a character, she is my type of girl I loved how she just goes for it.
you could tell it wasn't over for her and Luke and I have to say for someone who's main goal was to get back Luke she sure stuck to her guns and did just give in, yes she slipped the first time and slept with him but after she never made it easy for him which I found so refreshing. I loved reading about March learning and the station and getting her hands dirty I think as much as it was for Luke I think it helped her find herself and realise what she wanted.
Luke did get on my nerves at first I found him quite horrible towards maddy when in theory she didn't do anything wrong so he didn't have a good enough reason to be mean, ok he explained why but I didn't think it was good enough reason as to why he seemed so cold towards her :( half way through I admit I found myself falling for Luke, the text messages and how he was around her, remembering little things like her favourite Indian food was so sweet and then we had the other memories and wow what a hot couple :)
I really loved Zane and Kristen. the way they adopted maddy into their group, how they made her welcome in a place where she only knew Luke. the friendships made between them made me love this book even more.
I haven't read Aubrey and hunters book but I will be as I loved them both aswel.
can't forget Jack and the station works :)
all round a sweet romance book that every girl will love and 're read :)
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September 2, 2014
Charming the Outback is the companion to Winning the Player involving Hunter's cousin & Aubree's best friend Maddy.
Maddy leaves Adelaide for a full-time teaching job in Broken Hill. Which may or may not be where her ex-boyfriend has moved back home to to work in the mines and on his family's station. Luke had to return home to Broken Hill to run his family's station after his uncle had a stroke, but still working as a geologist during the weekdays. Luke not wanting to force Maddy into his way of life broke up with her to return to home.
It is pretty obvious that both Maddy and Luke still have feelings for each other but they have a lot of problems before they even think of getting back together. Maddy doesn't know the real reason why Luke broke up with her and wants to make him regret it.
Throughout the book you find out why Luke broke up with Maddy and the process that they take to get back together again. They really needed to talk more which did start to annoy me (Maddy let the man talk!). I love the friendships that Maddy makes in Broken Hill and her wanting to learn more about station life.
Also loved how Maddy and Aubree on the way to Broken Hill counted the road kill because I do that driving to Armidale for uni (2 Wombats, 4 Kangaroos & 6 unidentifiable animals in one trip)!
Charming the Outback is a story about not giving up love when you know that it is something more. Also nothing better than a NA book set in outback Australia!
Maddy leaves Adelaide for a full-time teaching job in Broken Hill. Which may or may not be where her ex-boyfriend has moved back home to to work in the mines and on his family's station. Luke had to return home to Broken Hill to run his family's station after his uncle had a stroke, but still working as a geologist during the weekdays. Luke not wanting to force Maddy into his way of life broke up with her to return to home.
It is pretty obvious that both Maddy and Luke still have feelings for each other but they have a lot of problems before they even think of getting back together. Maddy doesn't know the real reason why Luke broke up with her and wants to make him regret it.
Throughout the book you find out why Luke broke up with Maddy and the process that they take to get back together again. They really needed to talk more which did start to annoy me (Maddy let the man talk!). I love the friendships that Maddy makes in Broken Hill and her wanting to learn more about station life.
Also loved how Maddy and Aubree on the way to Broken Hill counted the road kill because I do that driving to Armidale for uni (2 Wombats, 4 Kangaroos & 6 unidentifiable animals in one trip)!
Charming the Outback is a story about not giving up love when you know that it is something more. Also nothing better than a NA book set in outback Australia!
May 13, 2015
At times, I found Charming the Outback to be jarring and stilted. The writing was often formal (action was often explained by writing: so and so did something, as they had to), or almost over-the-top casual. There was also one occasion where Maddy was giving Luke a BJ, that turned into him giving her oral sex without any progression. It was very confusing.
I absolutely loved Zane and found myself wishing that he was the hero of this book. I will definitely read a book about Zane.
Maddy and Luke's relationship development was frustrating and I found myself skimming through the last third of the book just to find out how it ended. I found both of these characters largely unlikeable, and I'm not even sure how Maddy could function with how much drinking she did. I don't know how Luke and Maddy could exchange I love you's when she knew so little about his life.
The story of Kristen's father, and her relationship with Steele, felt like they were just added in as an afterthought. I would have liked them to have their own story, or to be less of a focus in this book. I also really liked Rosie, Jack, and some of the others on the station. Maddy's time on the station, seeing what it was like to work on one, was probably one of the best parts of this book.
Overall, I'm looking forward to Leesa Bow's next book in this series, but I hope it is more carefully edited than Charming the Outback.
I absolutely loved Zane and found myself wishing that he was the hero of this book. I will definitely read a book about Zane.
Maddy and Luke's relationship development was frustrating and I found myself skimming through the last third of the book just to find out how it ended. I found both of these characters largely unlikeable, and I'm not even sure how Maddy could function with how much drinking she did. I don't know how Luke and Maddy could exchange I love you's when she knew so little about his life.
The story of Kristen's father, and her relationship with Steele, felt like they were just added in as an afterthought. I would have liked them to have their own story, or to be less of a focus in this book. I also really liked Rosie, Jack, and some of the others on the station. Maddy's time on the station, seeing what it was like to work on one, was probably one of the best parts of this book.
Overall, I'm looking forward to Leesa Bow's next book in this series, but I hope it is more carefully edited than Charming the Outback.
January 24, 2015
I recieved a copy of this book from the author for a honest review...
***Reviewer for Book Fancy Blog***
I was excited to read this book because I had read Winning the Player. In that book we met Maddy and Luke, when they meet in the book they were both spit fire. I couldn't wait to see where there story led to. I have to say that all though this was a good and well written book, I was a little disappointed that we didn't see this spitfire. With that being said I still couldn't put this book down. Leesa has a way of pulling you in and making you feel the emotions that the characters go through. I was happy to see that she included Aubree and Hunter in the book.
The story picks up 6 months after their break-up in a little country town of Broken Hill. Maddy is a city girl use to partying, going to football, and shopping. She takes a teaching job in Luke's hometown. When she arrives Luke isn't the same person she knew in the city. Maddy settles in making new friends, working and partying but Luke still keeps his distance. As she starts to learn how to be on a station, Luke's family and work she starts to understand Luke. She gave her heart to him a long time ago but can Luke give her his?
If you want a good read then this needs to be your next read. I'm looking forward to reading more of Leesa books in the future.
***Reviewer for Book Fancy Blog***
I was excited to read this book because I had read Winning the Player. In that book we met Maddy and Luke, when they meet in the book they were both spit fire. I couldn't wait to see where there story led to. I have to say that all though this was a good and well written book, I was a little disappointed that we didn't see this spitfire. With that being said I still couldn't put this book down. Leesa has a way of pulling you in and making you feel the emotions that the characters go through. I was happy to see that she included Aubree and Hunter in the book.
The story picks up 6 months after their break-up in a little country town of Broken Hill. Maddy is a city girl use to partying, going to football, and shopping. She takes a teaching job in Luke's hometown. When she arrives Luke isn't the same person she knew in the city. Maddy settles in making new friends, working and partying but Luke still keeps his distance. As she starts to learn how to be on a station, Luke's family and work she starts to understand Luke. She gave her heart to him a long time ago but can Luke give her his?
If you want a good read then this needs to be your next read. I'm looking forward to reading more of Leesa books in the future.
April 2, 2019
Damn emotional read
OMG I was taken on a rollercoaster journey. I wanted them together then I didn’t...this story had my shaking I was so angry at Luke to the point I didn’t have faith in their love. But having read Leesa’s words before I had to trust in her brilliance. This story will be on my mind for a while.
OMG I was taken on a rollercoaster journey. I wanted them together then I didn’t...this story had my shaking I was so angry at Luke to the point I didn’t have faith in their love. But having read Leesa’s words before I had to trust in her brilliance. This story will be on my mind for a while.
September 21, 2014
I don't actually recall having read a New Adult novel before so it was with a mix of fear and interest that I started reading Charming the Outback. Early on in the book I started to remember what my life was like at that age and I began to form a strong connection with the hero and heroine. Maddy the heroine has been dumped, that always hurts no matter what your age. Luke the hero (who I must confess took a long time to gain my favour) is shocked to suddenly find the girl he had left behind in Adelaide is living in his hometown of Broken Hill. I'm not going to spoil the story with too much detail, but suffice to say its not an easy ride to the HEA for this pair. I really enjoyed Leesa Bow's description of the outback and I know why I will never attempt to ride a motorbike through the bush. Her first book Winning the Player is now on my kindle. This was a terrific read and Leesa Bow paints a very strong and interesting picture of what its like to be in your twenties and trying to find your path. Thoroughly enjoyed this book.
amazon.com/author/sashacottman.com
amazon.com/author/sashacottman.com
September 17, 2014
Charming the Outback is apparently the companion to another book by Leesa Bow with Maddy’s cousin Hunter and her best friend Aubree. However, this can be read as a standalone.
This is a book about second chances and fighting for them. It is full of the confusion, thrill, immaturity and emotion-charged reactions of first love.
There are glimpses of the Aussie outback and the workings of a sheep station, which I liked. Certain usages (very much Australian) made me pause and wonder if this is a book meant for distribution just in Australia.
Every now and then I wanted to kick either Maddy or Luke for being immature. I liked their friends, although they weren’t much better either.
It is a sweet story but 50 pages too long for me. I would have liked it more had it been not so drawn out.
Note: This book was given to me by Penguin Books Australia | Destiny Romance in exchange for an honest review. I thank them for that.
Read all my reviews at My Two Pennies' Worth.
This is a book about second chances and fighting for them. It is full of the confusion, thrill, immaturity and emotion-charged reactions of first love.
There are glimpses of the Aussie outback and the workings of a sheep station, which I liked. Certain usages (very much Australian) made me pause and wonder if this is a book meant for distribution just in Australia.
Every now and then I wanted to kick either Maddy or Luke for being immature. I liked their friends, although they weren’t much better either.
It is a sweet story but 50 pages too long for me. I would have liked it more had it been not so drawn out.
Note: This book was given to me by Penguin Books Australia | Destiny Romance in exchange for an honest review. I thank them for that.
Read all my reviews at My Two Pennies' Worth.
September 15, 2014
Charming The Outback? More like charming the reader! What an elegantly written story. Maddy, a city girl through and through, is finally in the Australian equivalent of the country. She's a tough girl, and proves it. Of course, her running there had little to do with the lifestyle and more to do with Luke, the man that broke her heart. Maddy was very well written and I fell in love with her. I also adored her zany but fun friends as well. The entire read I placed myself in the book and never once questioned if it was realistic. Luke, oh the poor confused soul. He wants Maddy but doesn't want to make her suffer. Between familial obligations and sports, he doesn't see himself being able to maintain a steady relationship. So he breaks it off with Maddy and in the process, breaks her heart.
This book is a classic love story with a few twists and turns. I found it to be charming and overall gushingly romantic. I can't wait to read more from this author!! I give this book 5 stars!
This book is a classic love story with a few twists and turns. I found it to be charming and overall gushingly romantic. I can't wait to read more from this author!! I give this book 5 stars!
September 30, 2014
I loved this second novel from Leesa Bow! Gorgeous setting! Lovely twisty relationships filled with misunderstandings & new adventures!
Also, PLOT TWIST!
I did not expect that (though I never try to read ahead into things – I prefer to be surprised!) Reading it meant messaging Leesa to cry “OMG WHAT?!?” then keep frantically reading until the finish! Maddy & Luke had me hooked on their story, reading until the wee hours & picking it up again ASAP the next morning. On a side note, gotta show some love for Zane! <3 I have to admit I swooned more over Zane than Luke (even though I was cheering Luke on throughout!)
I would absolutely recommend Charming The Outback for you to read along with Leesas first novel, Winning The Player! Fabulous reads from a fantastic Aussie author!
Thanks again to Tome Tender for the Giveaway in which I won Charming The Outback!
Also, PLOT TWIST!
I did not expect that (though I never try to read ahead into things – I prefer to be surprised!) Reading it meant messaging Leesa to cry “OMG WHAT?!?” then keep frantically reading until the finish! Maddy & Luke had me hooked on their story, reading until the wee hours & picking it up again ASAP the next morning. On a side note, gotta show some love for Zane! <3 I have to admit I swooned more over Zane than Luke (even though I was cheering Luke on throughout!)
I would absolutely recommend Charming The Outback for you to read along with Leesas first novel, Winning The Player! Fabulous reads from a fantastic Aussie author!
Thanks again to Tome Tender for the Giveaway in which I won Charming The Outback!
September 24, 2014
“Charming the outback” is the second book in this series that started with “Winning the player”, but because of Leesa Bow’s extraordinary talent, it can be read as a stand alone. In this novel, Leesa Bow really delves into Luke and Maddy’s psyche and get to see how their dynamic really ticks.
I love the new country setting, and Broken Hill could not be more vivid. The descriptions of country life are so vivid, I feel as if I have been there myself.
Charming the outback is tender story about forgiveness, redemption, and second chances. Maddy helps Luke unpack his emotional baggage and helps him move on with his life. I thought it was very touching because Maddy’s love for him was unselfish and unconditional. I sighed so many times in delight.
Leesa Bow’s books keep getting better and better, I can’t recommend her novels high enough and I cant wait to see what she comes up with next.
I love the new country setting, and Broken Hill could not be more vivid. The descriptions of country life are so vivid, I feel as if I have been there myself.
Charming the outback is tender story about forgiveness, redemption, and second chances. Maddy helps Luke unpack his emotional baggage and helps him move on with his life. I thought it was very touching because Maddy’s love for him was unselfish and unconditional. I sighed so many times in delight.
Leesa Bow’s books keep getting better and better, I can’t recommend her novels high enough and I cant wait to see what she comes up with next.
December 21, 2014
5*
Maddy McIntyre packs up and head to outback Australia for a teaching position at a local school. But that's not her only priority to travelling a long a way for a career. Ex - boyfriend Luke White moved back to the Hill in outback aussie to run the family station and working the mines. Maddy desperately wants him back but does he feel the same way? What will become of Maddy living out of her comfort zone of city slicker life?
I love Leesa's style of writing and the language portrayed, I also love the quotes. I did get a little frustrated at Maddy's attitude right at the end and wanted to shake her silly but that didn't deter my 5* rating. I've learned a lot reading this series, with Australian football and what happens at a station and all the work put into it.
Looking forward to reading more from Leesa.
This book is aimed at mature audiences of 18+ with scenes of sexual nature.
Maddy McIntyre packs up and head to outback Australia for a teaching position at a local school. But that's not her only priority to travelling a long a way for a career. Ex - boyfriend Luke White moved back to the Hill in outback aussie to run the family station and working the mines. Maddy desperately wants him back but does he feel the same way? What will become of Maddy living out of her comfort zone of city slicker life?
I love Leesa's style of writing and the language portrayed, I also love the quotes. I did get a little frustrated at Maddy's attitude right at the end and wanted to shake her silly but that didn't deter my 5* rating. I've learned a lot reading this series, with Australian football and what happens at a station and all the work put into it.
Looking forward to reading more from Leesa.
This book is aimed at mature audiences of 18+ with scenes of sexual nature.
August 14, 2014
**********************SPOILERS MAY BE CONTAINED********************************
The cover outdid the blurb because after reading the blurb I was a little hesitant on reading the book. I'm glad I decided to read and review this book, it blew my expectations, and it wasn't what I thought. Maddy I loved her even if she made things awkward, "there's no way of putting this, Luke. After last weekend I've been worried. I mean, I'm on the Pill but you didn't use protection." Awkward silence streamed through the phone - and then he disconnected the call." Don't get me wrong there were times I wanted to kick Luke's a** but you could totally tell that he's all for Maddy. I'm so glad I decided to read this book.
The cover outdid the blurb because after reading the blurb I was a little hesitant on reading the book. I'm glad I decided to read and review this book, it blew my expectations, and it wasn't what I thought. Maddy I loved her even if she made things awkward, "there's no way of putting this, Luke. After last weekend I've been worried. I mean, I'm on the Pill but you didn't use protection." Awkward silence streamed through the phone - and then he disconnected the call." Don't get me wrong there were times I wanted to kick Luke's a** but you could totally tell that he's all for Maddy. I'm so glad I decided to read this book.
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