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Cockatoo Cove
A pitch-perfect new rural romance from the bestselling author of Wallaby Lane.
Maggie West has worked her entire adult life to prove herself, establishing a successful cattle stud instead of following her father into the crayfishing industry, though it's never enough to stop local speculation about her family's holdings. And with her teenage daughter close to veering off the rails, she knows all too well that money doesn't provide immunity against heartache or hardship.
Since landing in South Australia's picturesque Limestone Coast, Scottish winemaker Fergus Abernathy has gone from strength to strength. But it isn't just the awards or his stint as an unlikely social media superstar that's keeping him in the district; if he can put down roots, perhaps he can persuade his family to join him Down Under.
Missing his family back in Scotland, Fergus looks a little enviously at the close-knit West family, until a shocking phone call changes everything.
Misunderstandings, scams and long-withheld secrets create roadblocks for Maggie and Fergus, and with a community fundraiser hanging in the balance, it seems they're never destined to be in the right place at the right time.
Set in stunning wine country and featuring border collies, beaches and baking, Cockatoo Cove is an exceptional rural romance showcasing the richness of rural life and its generous community spirit with fun, humour and love.
Maggie West has worked her entire adult life to prove herself, establishing a successful cattle stud instead of following her father into the crayfishing industry, though it's never enough to stop local speculation about her family's holdings. And with her teenage daughter close to veering off the rails, she knows all too well that money doesn't provide immunity against heartache or hardship.
Since landing in South Australia's picturesque Limestone Coast, Scottish winemaker Fergus Abernathy has gone from strength to strength. But it isn't just the awards or his stint as an unlikely social media superstar that's keeping him in the district; if he can put down roots, perhaps he can persuade his family to join him Down Under.
Missing his family back in Scotland, Fergus looks a little enviously at the close-knit West family, until a shocking phone call changes everything.
Misunderstandings, scams and long-withheld secrets create roadblocks for Maggie and Fergus, and with a community fundraiser hanging in the balance, it seems they're never destined to be in the right place at the right time.
Set in stunning wine country and featuring border collies, beaches and baking, Cockatoo Cove is an exceptional rural romance showcasing the richness of rural life and its generous community spirit with fun, humour and love.
- GenresRomance
400 pages, Paperback
First published June 3, 2025
7 people are currently reading
99 people want to read
About the author
Maya Linnell
7 books171 followersFrom country show baking to raising orphaned lambs, bestselling author Maya Linnell writes about the life she lives and loves. A keen bookworm, former rural journalist and radio presenter, Maya has six rural fiction titles published with Allen & Unwin - Wallaby Lane, Kookaburra Cottage, Paperbark Hill, Magpie's Bend, Bottlebrush Creek and Wildflower Ridge.
She lives with her family in rural Queensland, writes to the soundtrack of kookaburras, and relies on copious amounts of tea and chocolate to fuel her days at the keyboard.
Maya was shortlisted in the 2021, 2020 and 2019 Aus Romance Reader Association awards for categories including Favourite Australian Romance Author, Favourite Debut Author and Favourite Australian-set novel and her novels have consistently made bestseller lists and the Better Reading Top 100.
Follow Maya on Instagram @maya.linnell.writes
She lives with her family in rural Queensland, writes to the soundtrack of kookaburras, and relies on copious amounts of tea and chocolate to fuel her days at the keyboard.
Maya was shortlisted in the 2021, 2020 and 2019 Aus Romance Reader Association awards for categories including Favourite Australian Romance Author, Favourite Debut Author and Favourite Australian-set novel and her novels have consistently made bestseller lists and the Better Reading Top 100.
Follow Maya on Instagram @maya.linnell.writes
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 47 reviews
July 7, 2025
EXTRACT: 'Have you seriously downloaded this app?'
'Which -' The question stuck in Maggie's throat and she grabbed the phone from her daughter. 'What are you doing on my phone? And when did you get here, Ben?'
'Small Town Singles? Taneisha's aunty was on that dating app, said all the guys were bogans or wannabe farmers, posting random photos of themselves with farm machinery that wasn't even theirs. Let me see your profile picture.'
Maggie stuffed her phone into her pocket. 'I forgot that was even on there,' she fibbed, pulling veggies from the crisper.
Isobel grinned gleefully. 'Liar. You're wearing those new earrings in your profile picture, the ones Granny got you for Easter instead of chocolate, and there's a bunch of open messages in your inbox.'
The microwave dinged and Maggie hacked at the semi-defrosted steaks. 'I was seeing what's out there.'
Ben smothered a laugh. 'You're really getting back on the horse? I hate to think what I'll miss when I go to the snow.'
'You're not the least bit perturbed about me considering a new relationship, then?' Maggie said. 'What if I get stalked by some internet Romeo? Harassed by a sex pest? Fall in love with a cattle baron from Alice Springs and uproot is all by shifting to the middle of nowhere?'
She watched as Isobel and Ben fell over themselves laughing. 'What? You don't think that might happen?'
Ben lifted his eyebrows. 'Those apps aren't for relationships, Mum. They're for hook-ups! You've got more chance of winning Lotto than finding someone interested in an old-fashioned "relationship".' He used air quotes as he said the last word . . .
ABOUT 'COCKTOO COVE': Maggie West has worked her entire adult life to prove herself, establishing a successful cattle stud instead of following her father into the crayfishing industry, though it's never enough to stop local speculation about her family's holdings. And with her teenage daughter close to veering off the rails, she knows all too well that money doesn't provide immunity against heartache or hardship.
Since landing in South Australia's picturesque Limestone Coast, Scottish winemaker Fergus Abernathy has gone from strength to strength. But it isn't just the awards or his stint as an unlikely social media superstar that's keeping him in the district; if he can put down roots, perhaps he can persuade his family to join him Down Under.
Missing his family back in Scotland, Fergus looks a little enviously at the close-knit West family, until a shocking phone call changes everything.
Misunderstandings, scams and long-withheld secrets create roadblocks for Maggie and Fergus, and with a community fundraiser hanging in the balance, it seems they're never destined to be in the right place at the right time.
MY THOUGHTS: A rural romance with fun, family, love and laughter - not to mention the odd disaster!
Cockatoo Cove is a stunning story featuring family misunderstandings, scams, educational dilemmas, parental rights, and romance, all accompanied by fantastic food, beautiful beaches, and plenty of fun.
I loved Maggie's relationship with her family - both her parents and her children - and even her ex-husband, with whom she shares custody of their children. She's had a couple of romantic disasters since parting with Todd, so I could understand her reticence at getting entangled with Fergus, especially when he seemed not to have been telling her the truth.
Isobel is a character who provides plenty of entertainment. She's a feisty teen, very opinionated, and not quick to forgive her mother's mistakes. And Maggie does make mistakes; she's only human and trying to navigate life as a single mum, albeit with plenty of familial support, manage her cattle stud and breeding border collies, play her part in the local community and somehow have a life of her own.
Fergus is a lovely Scotsman, and the sparks of desire are strong between him and Maggie from the start. But Fergus has a massive surprise heading his way and between that and a few misunderstandings, the odds seem stacked against anything developing between these two, despite fate (and Maggies parents) throwing them together at every opportunity.
I simply ate up this book, finishing it in record time. The plot is fast moving and relatable. The characters are charming and the relationships realistic. There is plenty of desire but no open-door sex scenes. I enjoyed the way Maya Linnell chose to highlight the problem of scamming and how very clever the scammers are getting.
I didn't realise that there are two previous books (Kookaburra Cottage and Wallaby Lane) set in this area and which include parts of Maggie's and Fergus's stories. I will definitely be chasing it up. But don't worry, Cockatoo Cove reads brilliantly as a stand-alone.
⭐⭐⭐⭐.4
#CockatooCove #NetGalley
MEET THE AUTHOR - MAYA LINNELL: From country show baking to raising orphaned lambs, bestselling author Maya Linnell writes about the life she lives and loves. A keen bookworm, former rural journalist and radio presenter, Maya has six rural fiction titles published with Allen & Unwin - Wallaby Lane, Kookaburra Cottage, Paperbark Hill, Magpie's Bend, Bottlebrush Creek and Wildflower Ridge.
She lives with her family in rural Queensland, writes to the soundtrack of kookaburras, and relies on copious amounts of tea and chocolate to fuel her days at the keyboard.
DISCLOSURE: Thank you to Allen & Unwin via NetGalley for providing an e-ARC of Cockatoo Cove by Maya Linnell for review. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own personal opinions.
https://sandysbookaday.wordpress.com/...
'Which -' The question stuck in Maggie's throat and she grabbed the phone from her daughter. 'What are you doing on my phone? And when did you get here, Ben?'
'Small Town Singles? Taneisha's aunty was on that dating app, said all the guys were bogans or wannabe farmers, posting random photos of themselves with farm machinery that wasn't even theirs. Let me see your profile picture.'
Maggie stuffed her phone into her pocket. 'I forgot that was even on there,' she fibbed, pulling veggies from the crisper.
Isobel grinned gleefully. 'Liar. You're wearing those new earrings in your profile picture, the ones Granny got you for Easter instead of chocolate, and there's a bunch of open messages in your inbox.'
The microwave dinged and Maggie hacked at the semi-defrosted steaks. 'I was seeing what's out there.'
Ben smothered a laugh. 'You're really getting back on the horse? I hate to think what I'll miss when I go to the snow.'
'You're not the least bit perturbed about me considering a new relationship, then?' Maggie said. 'What if I get stalked by some internet Romeo? Harassed by a sex pest? Fall in love with a cattle baron from Alice Springs and uproot is all by shifting to the middle of nowhere?'
She watched as Isobel and Ben fell over themselves laughing. 'What? You don't think that might happen?'
Ben lifted his eyebrows. 'Those apps aren't for relationships, Mum. They're for hook-ups! You've got more chance of winning Lotto than finding someone interested in an old-fashioned "relationship".' He used air quotes as he said the last word . . .
ABOUT 'COCKTOO COVE': Maggie West has worked her entire adult life to prove herself, establishing a successful cattle stud instead of following her father into the crayfishing industry, though it's never enough to stop local speculation about her family's holdings. And with her teenage daughter close to veering off the rails, she knows all too well that money doesn't provide immunity against heartache or hardship.
Since landing in South Australia's picturesque Limestone Coast, Scottish winemaker Fergus Abernathy has gone from strength to strength. But it isn't just the awards or his stint as an unlikely social media superstar that's keeping him in the district; if he can put down roots, perhaps he can persuade his family to join him Down Under.
Missing his family back in Scotland, Fergus looks a little enviously at the close-knit West family, until a shocking phone call changes everything.
Misunderstandings, scams and long-withheld secrets create roadblocks for Maggie and Fergus, and with a community fundraiser hanging in the balance, it seems they're never destined to be in the right place at the right time.
MY THOUGHTS: A rural romance with fun, family, love and laughter - not to mention the odd disaster!
Cockatoo Cove is a stunning story featuring family misunderstandings, scams, educational dilemmas, parental rights, and romance, all accompanied by fantastic food, beautiful beaches, and plenty of fun.
I loved Maggie's relationship with her family - both her parents and her children - and even her ex-husband, with whom she shares custody of their children. She's had a couple of romantic disasters since parting with Todd, so I could understand her reticence at getting entangled with Fergus, especially when he seemed not to have been telling her the truth.
Isobel is a character who provides plenty of entertainment. She's a feisty teen, very opinionated, and not quick to forgive her mother's mistakes. And Maggie does make mistakes; she's only human and trying to navigate life as a single mum, albeit with plenty of familial support, manage her cattle stud and breeding border collies, play her part in the local community and somehow have a life of her own.
Fergus is a lovely Scotsman, and the sparks of desire are strong between him and Maggie from the start. But Fergus has a massive surprise heading his way and between that and a few misunderstandings, the odds seem stacked against anything developing between these two, despite fate (and Maggies parents) throwing them together at every opportunity.
I simply ate up this book, finishing it in record time. The plot is fast moving and relatable. The characters are charming and the relationships realistic. There is plenty of desire but no open-door sex scenes. I enjoyed the way Maya Linnell chose to highlight the problem of scamming and how very clever the scammers are getting.
I didn't realise that there are two previous books (Kookaburra Cottage and Wallaby Lane) set in this area and which include parts of Maggie's and Fergus's stories. I will definitely be chasing it up. But don't worry, Cockatoo Cove reads brilliantly as a stand-alone.
⭐⭐⭐⭐.4
#CockatooCove #NetGalley
MEET THE AUTHOR - MAYA LINNELL: From country show baking to raising orphaned lambs, bestselling author Maya Linnell writes about the life she lives and loves. A keen bookworm, former rural journalist and radio presenter, Maya has six rural fiction titles published with Allen & Unwin - Wallaby Lane, Kookaburra Cottage, Paperbark Hill, Magpie's Bend, Bottlebrush Creek and Wildflower Ridge.
She lives with her family in rural Queensland, writes to the soundtrack of kookaburras, and relies on copious amounts of tea and chocolate to fuel her days at the keyboard.
DISCLOSURE: Thank you to Allen & Unwin via NetGalley for providing an e-ARC of Cockatoo Cove by Maya Linnell for review. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own personal opinions.
https://sandysbookaday.wordpress.com/...
June 1, 2025
Fergus Abernathy was a Scottish lad who'd left his homeland for South Australia's Limestone Coast, where he could put his winemaking skills to the test. He loved the vineyard, and was enjoying his time in the small rural town of Cockatoo Cove where he'd made quite a few friends. Heading to Maggie West's cattle stud, where he'd been invited to join the party, his fascination with the West family and admiration for Maggie's work with the cattle, shone. Neil West, Maggie's father, had been in the crayfishing industry all his life, loving the challenge each and every day.
When Maggie's teenage daughter Isobel was struggling, Maggie changed her school to the compact Cockatoo Cove high school, and Issy blossomed. Then Fergus received a phone call. Was he being scammed? How could this possibly have happened? As Fergus tried to navigate his new life, Maggie continued to try to direct Issy's. But things kept going wrong, first one thing, then another...
Cockatoo Cove is another excellent country story by Aussie author Maya Linnell which covers many topics. From misunderstandings between family members; fundraising and scams; secrets and romance - this rural story is surrounded by wine country, beautiful beaches, plenty of food, along with friendly locals, fun and entertainment. Highly recommended.
With thanks to NetGalley & Allen & Unwin AU for my digital ARC to read and review.
When Maggie's teenage daughter Isobel was struggling, Maggie changed her school to the compact Cockatoo Cove high school, and Issy blossomed. Then Fergus received a phone call. Was he being scammed? How could this possibly have happened? As Fergus tried to navigate his new life, Maggie continued to try to direct Issy's. But things kept going wrong, first one thing, then another...
Cockatoo Cove is another excellent country story by Aussie author Maya Linnell which covers many topics. From misunderstandings between family members; fundraising and scams; secrets and romance - this rural story is surrounded by wine country, beautiful beaches, plenty of food, along with friendly locals, fun and entertainment. Highly recommended.
With thanks to NetGalley & Allen & Unwin AU for my digital ARC to read and review.
May 3, 2025
Maggie West is a divorced mother of two, she lives and works at her cattle stud near the town of Penwarra in the South Australian Limestone Coast. Maggie’s teenage daughter Isabel is a handful, she doesn’t like the crowd she’s hanging out with, Maggie wants her to finish high school and not dropout.
Fergus Abernathy is a Scottish winemaker, he promotes the product he helps grow, and harvest and turn into award winning wine on social media. Fergus is envious of the West’s, Maggie and her sister Hazel and their parents Neil and Kathy and he wants to have the Aussie dream, a wife and kids and a home of his own and he’s been unlucky in love. Fergus gets a phone call that turns his world upside down, he’s torn between his loyalty to Scotland, his dad and being a good son and his brothers, and staying in Australia and the Limestone Coast and being responsible for his actions.
I received a copy of Cockatoo Cove by Maya Linnell from NetGalley and Allen & Unwin in exchange for an honest review. The author is known for including social topics in her bestselling rural fiction narratives and this time it includes subjects such as, being a young parent and divorcee, the paternity of a child and who should care for them, how it’s important to pick the right school and a private one doesn’t mean it’s better, fundraising and scams.
Set in the stunning wine country of the Limestone Coast, it has everything in the story from border collies and cattle, to idyllic beaches and the blessing of the fleet, boats and cray fishing, and it showcases what it's like to live in the area in a humorous and thought proving way and I could easily picture it all in my mind and it's set in beloved home state.
Fergus was a character I knew from Ms. Linnell’s previous book Kookaburra Cottage and it was great to catch up with him again and there's nothing hotter than a Scotsman in a kilt and Maggie found him hard to ignore. Five stars from me and I love reading authentic Australian stories and they are very important and so are the hardworking authors who write them and I highly recommend and a must read.
Fergus Abernathy is a Scottish winemaker, he promotes the product he helps grow, and harvest and turn into award winning wine on social media. Fergus is envious of the West’s, Maggie and her sister Hazel and their parents Neil and Kathy and he wants to have the Aussie dream, a wife and kids and a home of his own and he’s been unlucky in love. Fergus gets a phone call that turns his world upside down, he’s torn between his loyalty to Scotland, his dad and being a good son and his brothers, and staying in Australia and the Limestone Coast and being responsible for his actions.
I received a copy of Cockatoo Cove by Maya Linnell from NetGalley and Allen & Unwin in exchange for an honest review. The author is known for including social topics in her bestselling rural fiction narratives and this time it includes subjects such as, being a young parent and divorcee, the paternity of a child and who should care for them, how it’s important to pick the right school and a private one doesn’t mean it’s better, fundraising and scams.
Set in the stunning wine country of the Limestone Coast, it has everything in the story from border collies and cattle, to idyllic beaches and the blessing of the fleet, boats and cray fishing, and it showcases what it's like to live in the area in a humorous and thought proving way and I could easily picture it all in my mind and it's set in beloved home state.
Fergus was a character I knew from Ms. Linnell’s previous book Kookaburra Cottage and it was great to catch up with him again and there's nothing hotter than a Scotsman in a kilt and Maggie found him hard to ignore. Five stars from me and I love reading authentic Australian stories and they are very important and so are the hardworking authors who write them and I highly recommend and a must read.
July 11, 2025
I adored this story from start to finish. Aussie author Maya Linnell certainly knows how to entertain her readers. A beautifully written story set in a small town with a mix of great characters including some cute animals. If you enjoy a good wholesome read then I highly recommend you add this book to your list.
With thanks to Netgalley and the publishers for my digital copy to read and review.
With thanks to Netgalley and the publishers for my digital copy to read and review.
June 3, 2025
I always am happy when there is a new Maya Linnell book out, her stories are fabulous, it is like she can transport me to a rural location and I just feel comfortable getting to know the characters she has created to make me smile and feel all the emotions as we follow their story and Fergus Abernathy is a favourite of mine and seeing him in a new story had me cheering come along for another visit to The Limestone Coast and see how Fergus fares.
Maggie West is a divorced mother of two, after marrying young she has worked hard to prove to everyone that she is a capable and independent woman, she runs a successful cattle stud, breeds border collies even though her family run a big cray fishing company, she comes from a well off family but has made her own way in life, but her teenage daughter is causing a few problems at the moment and Maggie is doing her best to keep her on track, they have been through a rough time.
Fergus, who we have met before is a Scottish winemaker, a very successful one at that, but he has always wanted a wife and children like his brothers back in Scotland but he has yet to find the love of his life when he meets up with the West family especially Maggie he feels something, could she be the one for him, then there is news that rocks him and changes everything in his life.
Maggie and Fergus are soon working closely together, a weekend away in the Barossa Valley is what they both need but then everything is turned upside down again, scammers, secrets unfolding and stress play a big part in keeping them apart, will they both get through all of the dramas and ups and downs and find the love that they both deserve?
I loved this one so much, MS Linnell has set this one in such a beautiful setting, the beaches, the rural setting the food and the fabulous characters, I loved Fergus and Maggie, Izzy and Lenny. I do highly recommend this one, it was hard to put down, it is a page turner, and thank you MS Linnell this one goes straight to the keeper shelve.
My thanks to Allen & Unwin for my ARC to read and review.
Maggie West is a divorced mother of two, after marrying young she has worked hard to prove to everyone that she is a capable and independent woman, she runs a successful cattle stud, breeds border collies even though her family run a big cray fishing company, she comes from a well off family but has made her own way in life, but her teenage daughter is causing a few problems at the moment and Maggie is doing her best to keep her on track, they have been through a rough time.
Fergus, who we have met before is a Scottish winemaker, a very successful one at that, but he has always wanted a wife and children like his brothers back in Scotland but he has yet to find the love of his life when he meets up with the West family especially Maggie he feels something, could she be the one for him, then there is news that rocks him and changes everything in his life.
Maggie and Fergus are soon working closely together, a weekend away in the Barossa Valley is what they both need but then everything is turned upside down again, scammers, secrets unfolding and stress play a big part in keeping them apart, will they both get through all of the dramas and ups and downs and find the love that they both deserve?
I loved this one so much, MS Linnell has set this one in such a beautiful setting, the beaches, the rural setting the food and the fabulous characters, I loved Fergus and Maggie, Izzy and Lenny. I do highly recommend this one, it was hard to put down, it is a page turner, and thank you MS Linnell this one goes straight to the keeper shelve.
My thanks to Allen & Unwin for my ARC to read and review.
July 14, 2025
Reading Rural Romances are my comfort read and Maya's one of my auto picks.
What I loved about this book was how relatable it was for me.
* The fishing industry, libraries, women's weekly cookbooks. I live in a fishing community, and we too have the same festival. The blessing of the fleet. Ours is held in Easter. It made me connect to the book so much more.
* Found family and DNA tropes are 2 of my favorite tropes to read about, so another connection with this book
* Finally, the flirting going on with Maggie and Fergus, it was a slow burn romance, and I was yearning for them to get together. There was a lack of communication which at times had me very frustrated.
I always look forward to reading Maya's books and this one didn't disappoint.
What I loved about this book was how relatable it was for me.
* The fishing industry, libraries, women's weekly cookbooks. I live in a fishing community, and we too have the same festival. The blessing of the fleet. Ours is held in Easter. It made me connect to the book so much more.
* Found family and DNA tropes are 2 of my favorite tropes to read about, so another connection with this book
* Finally, the flirting going on with Maggie and Fergus, it was a slow burn romance, and I was yearning for them to get together. There was a lack of communication which at times had me very frustrated.
I always look forward to reading Maya's books and this one didn't disappoint.
June 12, 2025
Big thanks to Allen & Unwin for sending us a copy to read and review.
Rural fiction royalty Maya Linnell continues her latest series set in Limestone Coast in South Australia with Cockatoo Cove.
A delightful, cheerful and entertaining read.
Divorced mum Maggie runs a cattle stud farm with her adult son and rebellious teenage daughter.
Winemaker Fergus works at the local winery but longs for a family like his brothers have back in Scotland.
Life throws Maggie and Fergus together but will drama and a secret cause chaos…..
A agreeable addition to her already beloved and growing catalogue of novels.
Maya writes with heart and spirit and brings her characters to life from the pages.
Country and community charm, a selection of cherished characters, some returning ones too and a warm plot that will leave you will a smile
Shout out to the cute and scene stealing furry friends who are always a pleasure to read about.
A welcoming story that will embrace fans of the rural genre.
Rural fiction royalty Maya Linnell continues her latest series set in Limestone Coast in South Australia with Cockatoo Cove.
A delightful, cheerful and entertaining read.
Divorced mum Maggie runs a cattle stud farm with her adult son and rebellious teenage daughter.
Winemaker Fergus works at the local winery but longs for a family like his brothers have back in Scotland.
Life throws Maggie and Fergus together but will drama and a secret cause chaos…..
A agreeable addition to her already beloved and growing catalogue of novels.
Maya writes with heart and spirit and brings her characters to life from the pages.
Country and community charm, a selection of cherished characters, some returning ones too and a warm plot that will leave you will a smile
Shout out to the cute and scene stealing furry friends who are always a pleasure to read about.
A welcoming story that will embrace fans of the rural genre.
June 15, 2025
Absolutely adored Cockatoo Cove. Loved Fergus and Maggie, loved the small town, the farms, the horses… the everything about it! Perfect
July 6, 2025
⭐️5 Stars⭐️
Cockatoo Cove is the latest release for gifted Aussie author Maya Linnell and she’s given readers another exceptional rural romance with country charm. I absolutely loved the storyline and the beautiful characters that come to life on the pages.
Maggie West owns a successful cattle stud, she also breeds border collies and is a strongly independent divorced mother of two who comes from a well off family. Her teenage daughter Isabel is causing Maggie a few troublesome issues.
Scottish winemaker Fergus Abernathy is winning wine awards and is loving life on South Australia’s Limestone Coast. Fergus has always wanted a wife and kids and when he meets Maggie he feels some sparks. Meanwhile he’s about to receive the biggest surprise of his life.
Genuine themes of single parenting, family relationships, community spirt, farm animals, crayfishing, online scams and rural life.
A tale that feels warm and comforting that I very highly recommend, you won’t be disappointed or want to put this book down.
Publication Date 03 June 2025
Publisher Allen & Unwin
Thank you so much Maya and Allen & Unwin for having me on the bookstgram tour and for the gifted copy.
Cockatoo Cove is the latest release for gifted Aussie author Maya Linnell and she’s given readers another exceptional rural romance with country charm. I absolutely loved the storyline and the beautiful characters that come to life on the pages.
Maggie West owns a successful cattle stud, she also breeds border collies and is a strongly independent divorced mother of two who comes from a well off family. Her teenage daughter Isabel is causing Maggie a few troublesome issues.
Scottish winemaker Fergus Abernathy is winning wine awards and is loving life on South Australia’s Limestone Coast. Fergus has always wanted a wife and kids and when he meets Maggie he feels some sparks. Meanwhile he’s about to receive the biggest surprise of his life.
Genuine themes of single parenting, family relationships, community spirt, farm animals, crayfishing, online scams and rural life.
A tale that feels warm and comforting that I very highly recommend, you won’t be disappointed or want to put this book down.
Publication Date 03 June 2025
Publisher Allen & Unwin
Thank you so much Maya and Allen & Unwin for having me on the bookstgram tour and for the gifted copy.
June 25, 2025
Cockatoo Cove is Maya Linnells latest book, set on the Limestone Coast (the third in this series)
In Maya's usual style, it's a page turner, getting me sucked in right from the first page.
Maggie West is a single Mum, having had children very young, she's dealing with a teenage daughter who's starting a head off the rails, determined for her daughter to take advantage of all the opportunities she missed out on, Maggie is determined to keep her at school.
Between her children, running a successful cattle farm and school fundraising commitments, there's no room left for romance, that is until she meets Fergus Abernathy, a Scottish winemaker who is ready to put down roots in Penwarra.
The attraction between the two is instant, but their busy lives, a few crossed wires, and a major bombshell all seem set to put a stop to any blossoming romance.
Filled with warm lovable characters, as we as a couple of dodgy ones, it's your quintessential small rural town with all your usual types, making it so relatable as you read it.
Having grown up not too far over the border, I always get a kick when towns and places you know are mentioned!
If you're a fan of Maya's books, make sure you get your hands on this one, you'll love it!
Thanks Beauty and Lace and Allen and Unwin for the copy to read and review.
In Maya's usual style, it's a page turner, getting me sucked in right from the first page.
Maggie West is a single Mum, having had children very young, she's dealing with a teenage daughter who's starting a head off the rails, determined for her daughter to take advantage of all the opportunities she missed out on, Maggie is determined to keep her at school.
Between her children, running a successful cattle farm and school fundraising commitments, there's no room left for romance, that is until she meets Fergus Abernathy, a Scottish winemaker who is ready to put down roots in Penwarra.
The attraction between the two is instant, but their busy lives, a few crossed wires, and a major bombshell all seem set to put a stop to any blossoming romance.
Filled with warm lovable characters, as we as a couple of dodgy ones, it's your quintessential small rural town with all your usual types, making it so relatable as you read it.
Having grown up not too far over the border, I always get a kick when towns and places you know are mentioned!
If you're a fan of Maya's books, make sure you get your hands on this one, you'll love it!
Thanks Beauty and Lace and Allen and Unwin for the copy to read and review.
July 11, 2025
I always enjoy when familiar characters come out on books when i wasnt expecting it. The Fergus and Maggie story was good, twists and turns but i think it helped build the characters
June 1, 2025
Another wonderful rural story from Maya that takes us back to South Australia's limestone coast wine growing region. This is book 3 in this series, but can definitely be read as a standalone, however, I do recommend you read them in order.
Maggie is a single mother with a grown up son and teenage daughter who manages her small farm in the area. Fergus is a Scottish wine-maker who works in the local winery that was introduced in book 1 - Kookaburra Cottage. He loves living and working in the area despite being torn between staying and going home where his family is.
Maggie is struggling with daughter Isobel who is in danger of mixing with the wrong crowd, so decides to send her to a different school. Fergus discovers he has a son which brings about a whole new way of life and thinking.
The mixture of parental duties, farming, fundraising, local country shows, internet shopping and of course a touch of romance make this book another winner in my eyes. Maya writes with a clear understanding of country life and its highs and lows, and I'm keen to hear which character gets his story in the next book.
Highly recommended for readers of Womens Fiction and Romance. Thank you to Allen & Unwin for the complementary copy of this book for review purposes.
Maggie is a single mother with a grown up son and teenage daughter who manages her small farm in the area. Fergus is a Scottish wine-maker who works in the local winery that was introduced in book 1 - Kookaburra Cottage. He loves living and working in the area despite being torn between staying and going home where his family is.
Maggie is struggling with daughter Isobel who is in danger of mixing with the wrong crowd, so decides to send her to a different school. Fergus discovers he has a son which brings about a whole new way of life and thinking.
The mixture of parental duties, farming, fundraising, local country shows, internet shopping and of course a touch of romance make this book another winner in my eyes. Maya writes with a clear understanding of country life and its highs and lows, and I'm keen to hear which character gets his story in the next book.
Highly recommended for readers of Womens Fiction and Romance. Thank you to Allen & Unwin for the complementary copy of this book for review purposes.
August 25, 2025
When I’m in the mood for a comfort read, there are 2 options for me to turn to: 1) a Jane Austen re-read or 2) rural romance. And my go-to rural romance author is Maya Linnell. I read my first book from Maya Linnell in 2022 & I’ve been making my way through her growing catalogue ever since.
As with all of Maya’s books, COCKATOO COVE is full of small town country charm. It’s present on every page & as always, it makes me pine for a rural life that this suburban bookworm is very likely not at all cut out for.
COCKATOO COVE is told with so much warmth. It builds on the world we met in KOOKABURRA COTTAGE and WALLABY LANE. The story went in some directions I really wasn’t expecting and I admire Maya’s ability to keep this genre fresh and full of contemporary hot topics.
Being immersed in rural Australia through the world of Maya’s books is always a delight.
COCKATOO COVE is another must read for fans of rural romance.
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I received a gifted copy of this from the publisher. I should also note that my blurb appears on the cover of this book, because I’m such a fan of Maya’s books! Thanks to Allen & Unwin for featuring my quote - such a thrill!
As with all of Maya’s books, COCKATOO COVE is full of small town country charm. It’s present on every page & as always, it makes me pine for a rural life that this suburban bookworm is very likely not at all cut out for.
COCKATOO COVE is told with so much warmth. It builds on the world we met in KOOKABURRA COTTAGE and WALLABY LANE. The story went in some directions I really wasn’t expecting and I admire Maya’s ability to keep this genre fresh and full of contemporary hot topics.
Being immersed in rural Australia through the world of Maya’s books is always a delight.
COCKATOO COVE is another must read for fans of rural romance.
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I received a gifted copy of this from the publisher. I should also note that my blurb appears on the cover of this book, because I’m such a fan of Maya’s books! Thanks to Allen & Unwin for featuring my quote - such a thrill!
December 13, 2025
Maggie West appears to have it all - a wealthy family business, beautiful new home and a supportive, caring family. But money doesn't always buy happiness, nor does it make parenting easy. While Maggie's teenage daughter, Izzy, challenges her at every opportunity, a good looking wine maker from Scotland turns up in their town and sparks fly.
This is a multi-layered story featuring farming, a crayfishing business, family and love. I loved every page and every character. A fabulous book that I highly recommend!
This is a multi-layered story featuring farming, a crayfishing business, family and love. I loved every page and every character. A fabulous book that I highly recommend!
July 6, 2025
Another fabulous story by Maya, she always makes me feel warm and snuggly!
Beautifully told, lots of relevant topics cover and done so well!
So glad Fergus finally got his Happily Ever After!
Beautifully told, lots of relevant topics cover and done so well!
So glad Fergus finally got his Happily Ever After!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 28, 2025
Cockatoo Cove was a great read set in rural South Australia. Maggie is a divorced mother of two and runs a successful cattle stud. She is close to her family but chose cattle over the crayfish business her father runs. As the story opens Maggie’s rebellious daughter is running with the wrong crowd and Maggie is in the process of changing her school.
Fergus hails from Scotland and is a successful winemaker. After a broken relationship he wants to one day find love, settle down and raise his own family. He initially bonds with Maggie over her Pink Fridge but a series of misunderstandings results in a breakup. Shortly after this, Fergus finds out that after a one-night stand in Scotland thirteen years earlier he has a moody son who he is now responsible for as the boy’s mother has died. So moody son and rebellious daughter both end up at the same school.
Maggie and Fergus are asked to join together to raise funds for the school, but they lose it all through an online scam. They have to work together to try and redeem themselves and repay the money, and they may actually have to listen to their recalcitrance teens to get to a solution.
I loved the community of Penwarra, where everyone knows every one else and when a tragedy occurs they all pull together. It did take me a wee while to get into the story as I felt I was suppose to know why Maggie’s house had burned down and a new one built to warrant the opening scenes of a house warming party. This was my fault as there are two other books set in the area prior to Cockatoo Cove that I haven’t read yet. if I had read them then I probably would know all this background, but in the end it wasn’t important to the story to know this.
There is so much love and humour in this book, I really enjoyed reading it. It is full of down to earth characters. Family and friends join together to support each other, cry together, argue together and laugh together. I recommend this book to all my friends who like Australian rural romances. Oh, and Limestone Coast is home to six different wine regions which I toured recently and the wines are amazing.
Thank you to Allen and Unwin for providing an advanced copy of this book for review consideration via NetGalley. All opinions are my own
Fergus hails from Scotland and is a successful winemaker. After a broken relationship he wants to one day find love, settle down and raise his own family. He initially bonds with Maggie over her Pink Fridge but a series of misunderstandings results in a breakup. Shortly after this, Fergus finds out that after a one-night stand in Scotland thirteen years earlier he has a moody son who he is now responsible for as the boy’s mother has died. So moody son and rebellious daughter both end up at the same school.
Maggie and Fergus are asked to join together to raise funds for the school, but they lose it all through an online scam. They have to work together to try and redeem themselves and repay the money, and they may actually have to listen to their recalcitrance teens to get to a solution.
I loved the community of Penwarra, where everyone knows every one else and when a tragedy occurs they all pull together. It did take me a wee while to get into the story as I felt I was suppose to know why Maggie’s house had burned down and a new one built to warrant the opening scenes of a house warming party. This was my fault as there are two other books set in the area prior to Cockatoo Cove that I haven’t read yet. if I had read them then I probably would know all this background, but in the end it wasn’t important to the story to know this.
There is so much love and humour in this book, I really enjoyed reading it. It is full of down to earth characters. Family and friends join together to support each other, cry together, argue together and laugh together. I recommend this book to all my friends who like Australian rural romances. Oh, and Limestone Coast is home to six different wine regions which I toured recently and the wines are amazing.
Thank you to Allen and Unwin for providing an advanced copy of this book for review consideration via NetGalley. All opinions are my own
June 15, 2025
I was super keen to return to the Limestone Coast with Book three from Maya Linnell - Cockatoo Cove, her latest release with Allen & Unwin. Her previous two stories set in this region I absolutely loved - Kookaburra Cottage and Wallaby Lane.
I loved that this story was super real, I could relate to the main characters and the challenges they were facing as they are relevant in today's society.
Maggie West is a hard-working Mum of two children, Ben a young adult and Isobel a rebellious teenager who she co parents with her Ex Husband-Todd.
Maggie runs a successful Cattle stud and breeds border collies determined to prove herself after marrying and having a baby young.
She has her hands full with Issy - who is challenging her, not hanging with the best crowd and making questionable choices, Maggie is determined to get her daughter back on track.
Fergus Abernathy is a Scottish Winemaker who we were first introduced to in Kookaburra Cottage, and it was nice to see him get his own story.
Fergus is called to help Maggie with her fridge, he receives an invite to her Housewarming party and is instantly envious of her family circle, the beautiful house and the life she is living.
A phone call changes everything for Fergus and his life changes in an instant.
With all of Maya's books this one can be read as a stand alone or in order, I recommend reading in order as I feel that is the way the characters shine.
These stories are always like coming home - to be honest I am always ready to pack up and move to the country after reading one of Maya's books.
I love hearing updates on previous main characters and seeing them mentioned in the latest book - like April and Connor, Policeman Jack and Archie.
It is not just the page turning storyline that will have you hooked, it is the location - Maya beautifully describes the Limestone Coast region which I feel is also a central character in her stories. This book has it all - two likeable main characters, great supporting characters and a beautiful location - Maya's books are always page turners and I often tell my friends - they are like one big warm hug.
Bring on June 2026 - whose story will be next to be told?
I loved that this story was super real, I could relate to the main characters and the challenges they were facing as they are relevant in today's society.
Maggie West is a hard-working Mum of two children, Ben a young adult and Isobel a rebellious teenager who she co parents with her Ex Husband-Todd.
Maggie runs a successful Cattle stud and breeds border collies determined to prove herself after marrying and having a baby young.
She has her hands full with Issy - who is challenging her, not hanging with the best crowd and making questionable choices, Maggie is determined to get her daughter back on track.
Fergus Abernathy is a Scottish Winemaker who we were first introduced to in Kookaburra Cottage, and it was nice to see him get his own story.
Fergus is called to help Maggie with her fridge, he receives an invite to her Housewarming party and is instantly envious of her family circle, the beautiful house and the life she is living.
A phone call changes everything for Fergus and his life changes in an instant.
With all of Maya's books this one can be read as a stand alone or in order, I recommend reading in order as I feel that is the way the characters shine.
These stories are always like coming home - to be honest I am always ready to pack up and move to the country after reading one of Maya's books.
I love hearing updates on previous main characters and seeing them mentioned in the latest book - like April and Connor, Policeman Jack and Archie.
It is not just the page turning storyline that will have you hooked, it is the location - Maya beautifully describes the Limestone Coast region which I feel is also a central character in her stories. This book has it all - two likeable main characters, great supporting characters and a beautiful location - Maya's books are always page turners and I often tell my friends - they are like one big warm hug.
Bring on June 2026 - whose story will be next to be told?
July 6, 2025
Maggie West has worked tirelessly to prove herself, establishing a successful cattle stud instead of following her father into the crayfishing industry. Scottish winemaker Fergus Abernathy has gone from strength to strength. Missing his family back in Scotland, Fergus looks a little enviously at the close-knit West family, until a shocking phone call changes everything. Misunderstandings and long-withheld secrets create roadblocks for Maggie and Fergus, it seems they're never destined to be in the right place at the right time.
Aww, it was delightful to once again return to Maya Linnell’s world. As expected, this was a rich story that expanded beyond ‘just’ a romance. It was about family, parent-child dynamics, finance, and complex relationships.
Maggie was a super woman to me despite of her insecurities and vulnerabilities - a mum, a businesswoman, a netball coach and a prominent figure in the society. She was my kind of heroine in stories, and she made the perfect match for Fergus whom we’d met in Kookaburra Cottage previously. It was also wonderful to see glimpses of April and Connor from Kookaburra Cottage and how their relationship had progressed since we last saw them!
I loved the dynamics between Maggie and her daughter Isobel. I also loved the struggles and challenges Fergus had to overcome with Lenny. I was bit worried about Maggie and Fergus’ relationship development at the start given they were both super busy and their lives were quite full on, but once the chemistry sizzled, it was unstoppable and explosive!
I truly enjoyed all the drama, twists and turns in this book. I couldn’t believe all those subplots and hurdles were packed into one book as it really felt like one season of a TV series. This was such a satisfying escape for me. Plus it was fun to see the nods to Outlanders (the book and TV series)!
(Thanks to Allen & Unwin for a gifted review copy)
See my bookstagram review.
Aww, it was delightful to once again return to Maya Linnell’s world. As expected, this was a rich story that expanded beyond ‘just’ a romance. It was about family, parent-child dynamics, finance, and complex relationships.
Maggie was a super woman to me despite of her insecurities and vulnerabilities - a mum, a businesswoman, a netball coach and a prominent figure in the society. She was my kind of heroine in stories, and she made the perfect match for Fergus whom we’d met in Kookaburra Cottage previously. It was also wonderful to see glimpses of April and Connor from Kookaburra Cottage and how their relationship had progressed since we last saw them!
I loved the dynamics between Maggie and her daughter Isobel. I also loved the struggles and challenges Fergus had to overcome with Lenny. I was bit worried about Maggie and Fergus’ relationship development at the start given they were both super busy and their lives were quite full on, but once the chemistry sizzled, it was unstoppable and explosive!
I truly enjoyed all the drama, twists and turns in this book. I couldn’t believe all those subplots and hurdles were packed into one book as it really felt like one season of a TV series. This was such a satisfying escape for me. Plus it was fun to see the nods to Outlanders (the book and TV series)!
(Thanks to Allen & Unwin for a gifted review copy)
See my bookstagram review.
July 6, 2025
Welcome back to the Limestone Coast….where the livestock are plenty, the vines are more than scenery, the coastline is stunning, and the people are friendly.
I always enjoy my time at the Limestone Coast, and Cockatoo Cove is no exception, and this time round we are introduced to Maggie West and the rest of West Family, and see the return of many cherished locals, including the lovable Scot, Fergus Abernathy.
The locations in and around the Limestone Coast are described beautifully by Maya, and make you feel like you are there seeing the lush green paddocks, smelling the salt of the sea, and tasting the delightful treats on offer.
Maggie and Fergus are two vastly different people with not only upbringings and experiences that are worlds apart, but they also seem to be on very different paths in life. Each has their own story, with dramas and issues that come up, but their paths seem to be constantly crossing, making it extremely difficult for either of them to ignore the attraction and tension that exists.
All is not smooth sailing for Maggie and Fergus, with Maggie dealing with running a successful cattle farm together with a rebelling and surly teenage daughter to contend with, and Fergus having not one, but two major lifechanging family issues in quick succession that threaten to derail his plan to put down roots in the district.
I loved the cameos of many of my favourite Limestone Coast community members, and attending the Penwarra Show one more time. There were also many giggles at some of the funny events and one-liners that were delivered in true rural Australian style, and let’s face it, that’s what a great Australian rural romance is all about.
Cockatoo Cove is very much a standalone story that I recommend you pick up for a very entertaining read, but be warned, once you visit the Limestone Coast, you will want to go back for more and I have no doubt that you will be tracking down all Maya’s previous books so that you can find out all the stories.
#cockatoocove
#maylinnell
#parentingobstacles
#allenandunwin
I always enjoy my time at the Limestone Coast, and Cockatoo Cove is no exception, and this time round we are introduced to Maggie West and the rest of West Family, and see the return of many cherished locals, including the lovable Scot, Fergus Abernathy.
The locations in and around the Limestone Coast are described beautifully by Maya, and make you feel like you are there seeing the lush green paddocks, smelling the salt of the sea, and tasting the delightful treats on offer.
Maggie and Fergus are two vastly different people with not only upbringings and experiences that are worlds apart, but they also seem to be on very different paths in life. Each has their own story, with dramas and issues that come up, but their paths seem to be constantly crossing, making it extremely difficult for either of them to ignore the attraction and tension that exists.
All is not smooth sailing for Maggie and Fergus, with Maggie dealing with running a successful cattle farm together with a rebelling and surly teenage daughter to contend with, and Fergus having not one, but two major lifechanging family issues in quick succession that threaten to derail his plan to put down roots in the district.
I loved the cameos of many of my favourite Limestone Coast community members, and attending the Penwarra Show one more time. There were also many giggles at some of the funny events and one-liners that were delivered in true rural Australian style, and let’s face it, that’s what a great Australian rural romance is all about.
Cockatoo Cove is very much a standalone story that I recommend you pick up for a very entertaining read, but be warned, once you visit the Limestone Coast, you will want to go back for more and I have no doubt that you will be tracking down all Maya’s previous books so that you can find out all the stories.
#cockatoocove
#maylinnell
#parentingobstacles
#allenandunwin
June 23, 2025
Cockatoo Cove is a fun, feel-good book about finding love in a small rural town this wonderful rural romance that immediately has readers interested in the charm and beauty of SA’s Limestone Coast.
The story follows Maggie West, a determined woman, mother of two, who’s carved her own path in the cattle stud industry, instead of following her father into the crayfishing industry. Having both personal and professional challenges, particularly her struggles with her teenage daughter, who is veering off the rails, she knows all too well, I also really liked seeing the positive relationship she has with her ex-husband.
Fergus Abernathy since coming to the picturesque Limestone Coast, a Scottish winemaker has gone from strength to strength, who’s found success but longs for deeper connections. Missing his family back in Scotland, perhaps he can persuade his family to join him Down Under.
A shocking phone call changes everything.
Misunderstandings and long-withheld secrets create roadblocks for Maggie and Fergus, I really did enjoyed the personal and professional struggles both Fergus and Maggie go through; it made them both very relatable.
There is something about a small rural community that captures the essence of community spirit, we can see their struggles, failures and successes as though they are our friends through a beautiful writing style and picturesque setting, offering a beautiful blend of love, humour, country spirit.
Great read. 😊
The story follows Maggie West, a determined woman, mother of two, who’s carved her own path in the cattle stud industry, instead of following her father into the crayfishing industry. Having both personal and professional challenges, particularly her struggles with her teenage daughter, who is veering off the rails, she knows all too well, I also really liked seeing the positive relationship she has with her ex-husband.
Fergus Abernathy since coming to the picturesque Limestone Coast, a Scottish winemaker has gone from strength to strength, who’s found success but longs for deeper connections. Missing his family back in Scotland, perhaps he can persuade his family to join him Down Under.
A shocking phone call changes everything.
Misunderstandings and long-withheld secrets create roadblocks for Maggie and Fergus, I really did enjoyed the personal and professional struggles both Fergus and Maggie go through; it made them both very relatable.
There is something about a small rural community that captures the essence of community spirit, we can see their struggles, failures and successes as though they are our friends through a beautiful writing style and picturesque setting, offering a beautiful blend of love, humour, country spirit.
Great read. 😊
June 23, 2025
It’s so easy to slip into the world of cattle farmer Maggie West and winemaker Fergus Abernathy as you begin to read Cockatoo Cove. Author Maya Linnell has created a believable world filled with family and a wider community who look after their own. This is definitely a feelgood roimance, though there is plenty of angst along the way too, keeping tensions high and the stakes even higher for protagonists Maggie and Fergus. She’s gun-shy when it comes to Scottish men after a disastrous relationship with her ex-boyfriend Dougal, but she just can’t seem to resist Fergus and his genuine affection for her. She’s also juggling parenthood of a sixteen year-old, who can’t wait to get away from home. He’s suddenly discovered a thirteen year-old son he knew nothing about until Lenny’s mother died and named Fergus in her will. Learning how to be a father of a ready-made son is no easy feat especially when that son idolises his absent Uncle Huey and can’t wait to get away from Cockatoo Cove. Blending these two families was never going to be easy and it certainly does pose plenty of challenges for Fergus and Maggie. As their story unfolds it’s easy to cheer for these two. I also loved the way their children bonded. This is a gently told story set in a part of South Australia that this author is clearly familiar with. It’s quite a long read, but perfect to savour on cold winter nights. It was a pleasure to read.
June 10, 2025
Reading this novel was like returning to a long lost group of family and friends. The warmth and authenticity of country life and all of its ups and downs. Community. And friendships that endure the test of time. Truly delightful.
Maggie West has worked to establish a successful cattle stud, choosing not to follow in her father's footsteps in the crayfishing industry. She manages her two children on her own, even though admittedly her daughter has been a handful recently. Since arriving in Limestone Coast, Scottish winemaker Fergus Abernathy has become successful. If only he can persuade some of his family to join him Down Under, as he misses them terribly.
I can't say more, save for spoilers, but there were a bunch of interesting moments in this one! I did not expect the surprise at the beginning and the way the story would unfold from there. I do recall Fergus as featuring in one of the author's previous novels and I am so happy he has a book with him as the main character now. There was humour and heartwarming scenes and a genuine look at Australian life in this cosy rural romance. It made me feel nostalgic for the country life I had growing up. Another thoroughly enjoyable novel by the author.
Thank you to Allen and Unwin and the author for this gifted review copy.
Maggie West has worked to establish a successful cattle stud, choosing not to follow in her father's footsteps in the crayfishing industry. She manages her two children on her own, even though admittedly her daughter has been a handful recently. Since arriving in Limestone Coast, Scottish winemaker Fergus Abernathy has become successful. If only he can persuade some of his family to join him Down Under, as he misses them terribly.
I can't say more, save for spoilers, but there were a bunch of interesting moments in this one! I did not expect the surprise at the beginning and the way the story would unfold from there. I do recall Fergus as featuring in one of the author's previous novels and I am so happy he has a book with him as the main character now. There was humour and heartwarming scenes and a genuine look at Australian life in this cosy rural romance. It made me feel nostalgic for the country life I had growing up. Another thoroughly enjoyable novel by the author.
Thank you to Allen and Unwin and the author for this gifted review copy.
August 20, 2025
Fergus was living a life he really enjoyed, having moved from Scotland to Australia, his passion in wine making he embraced. He still had some things he wanted, a partner, someone to share his life, and his own piece of land in country South Australia's Limestone coast. He did not see the curve-ball coming his way, a blast from the past leaves him a gift.
Maggie has rebuilt following a fire that left her in need of a new home and with a daughter that had troubles greater than the people she spent her time with. Her cattle stud was a success, despite taking a lot of hard work. Her life still missing an adult to share it with. Yes, she has a close nit family and her ex-husband wasn't far away, having joined the family Crayfish company. But it wasn't enough
When they meet he is in awe of all that she is and has and she is uncertain that another Scott is what will make her happy, the last one she dated left her jaded.
An outback romance with a splash of the unexpected to complicate things, where can a story like this go wrong... rhetorical, it can't.
Thank you to all involved to get this book into my reading list.
Maggie has rebuilt following a fire that left her in need of a new home and with a daughter that had troubles greater than the people she spent her time with. Her cattle stud was a success, despite taking a lot of hard work. Her life still missing an adult to share it with. Yes, she has a close nit family and her ex-husband wasn't far away, having joined the family Crayfish company. But it wasn't enough
When they meet he is in awe of all that she is and has and she is uncertain that another Scott is what will make her happy, the last one she dated left her jaded.
An outback romance with a splash of the unexpected to complicate things, where can a story like this go wrong... rhetorical, it can't.
Thank you to all involved to get this book into my reading list.
July 9, 2025
Maya Linnell is one of my fave Aussie rural romance authors and this was lovely. I’m such a sucker for a rural romance - they’re my guilty pleasure 🥰
This is set in the Limestone Coast of Australia and follows some characters we’ve met in previous ML novels. I was excited to get a story on Scottish winemaker Fergus as I’d liked him as a side character in other books. In this he meets Maggie West, who runs a cattle stud and is in the depths of teenage angst with her daughter Issy. She’s focused on getting her through school and isn’t looking for romance, but it always strikes when you’re not looking! Fergus has always wanted a family, but has been unlucky in love and is drawn to the warmth of the West family.
This was another goodie from Maya and I enjoyed this on a lazy Monday off work in the sun - bliss! Maya’s books always evoke such a sense of place, and even though I’ve never been to Australia I always feel like I’m right there with her characters when I read her books as everything feels so realistic. I adore the community spirit in every book as well and this was great for showcasing that. I shall now impatiently await her next release 🥰
This is set in the Limestone Coast of Australia and follows some characters we’ve met in previous ML novels. I was excited to get a story on Scottish winemaker Fergus as I’d liked him as a side character in other books. In this he meets Maggie West, who runs a cattle stud and is in the depths of teenage angst with her daughter Issy. She’s focused on getting her through school and isn’t looking for romance, but it always strikes when you’re not looking! Fergus has always wanted a family, but has been unlucky in love and is drawn to the warmth of the West family.
This was another goodie from Maya and I enjoyed this on a lazy Monday off work in the sun - bliss! Maya’s books always evoke such a sense of place, and even though I’ve never been to Australia I always feel like I’m right there with her characters when I read her books as everything feels so realistic. I adore the community spirit in every book as well and this was great for showcasing that. I shall now impatiently await her next release 🥰
May 29, 2025
Cockatoo Cove is a fun and feel-good book about finding love in a small rural town.
There is something about a small rural community that I love to read about and Linnell writes perfectly captures the essence and community spirit of them, writing characters who feel genuine. We see their struggles, failures and successes as though they are our friends through a beautiful writing style and picturesque setting.
I really enjoyed the personal and professional struggles both Fergus and Maggie go through. It made them both very relatable. And the slow burn between the two of them was so good.
Thank you to @allenandunwin and @netgalley for a digital copy to read in advance.
There is something about a small rural community that I love to read about and Linnell writes perfectly captures the essence and community spirit of them, writing characters who feel genuine. We see their struggles, failures and successes as though they are our friends through a beautiful writing style and picturesque setting.
I really enjoyed the personal and professional struggles both Fergus and Maggie go through. It made them both very relatable. And the slow burn between the two of them was so good.
Thank you to @allenandunwin and @netgalley for a digital copy to read in advance.
July 1, 2025
Absolutely loved this book. And how could you not.
Returning to Penwarra and the familiar characters make you feel like your home after a long trip away. Especially when your family means the world to you.
This book had me laughing and feeling like I’m in love again. The character Fergus brought another world to life, especially when he finds himself in a situation where he never thought he’d be in, but with Maggie offering advice, whether it was good or not, this made it even more enjoyable.
I received this book for an honest review.
Returning to Penwarra and the familiar characters make you feel like your home after a long trip away. Especially when your family means the world to you.
This book had me laughing and feeling like I’m in love again. The character Fergus brought another world to life, especially when he finds himself in a situation where he never thought he’d be in, but with Maggie offering advice, whether it was good or not, this made it even more enjoyable.
I received this book for an honest review.
October 26, 2025
Thanks to NetGalley, Allen and Unwin, and the author for the chance to read this book.
I have so far enjoyed all of Maya Linnell's books, and this was no different. It features some characters from previous stories but is a stand-alone book.
Maggie has had many challenges in recent years and is feeling the struggle of keeping all the plates spinning. Fergus is trying to put down roots in the town and has some surprises heading his way.
I enjoyed the story and reading along with their journey. It was full of misunderstandings, drama, friendship, and love.
I have so far enjoyed all of Maya Linnell's books, and this was no different. It features some characters from previous stories but is a stand-alone book.
Maggie has had many challenges in recent years and is feeling the struggle of keeping all the plates spinning. Fergus is trying to put down roots in the town and has some surprises heading his way.
I enjoyed the story and reading along with their journey. It was full of misunderstandings, drama, friendship, and love.
August 2, 2025
Nice easy read with a whole lot of likeable characters, and a few twists and turns. Would love Magnolia’s home as my own! And who doesn’t love a Scottish accent!!!!!
A great book to snuggle up with on a cold, wet wintery afternoon. Will happily read more of this Maya Linnell’s books. Having met her recently and finding out she writes her books added to the charm of her stories. Such a down to earth lady who captures the quirks of country Australia in her stories.
A great book to snuggle up with on a cold, wet wintery afternoon. Will happily read more of this Maya Linnell’s books. Having met her recently and finding out she writes her books added to the charm of her stories. Such a down to earth lady who captures the quirks of country Australia in her stories.
May 4, 2025
This book is due to be released on June 3, 2025.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an advanced copy for an honest review. A great country romance book with Scottish Fergus and local girl Maggie. Throw in the usual small country town dramas, family dramas and love life dramas and it makes for a great book.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an advanced copy for an honest review. A great country romance book with Scottish Fergus and local girl Maggie. Throw in the usual small country town dramas, family dramas and love life dramas and it makes for a great book.
June 2, 2025
Another beautiful rural romance story in South Australia’s Limestone Coast. Loved following the characters in these series and I enjoyed reading about Fergus and Maggie.
Thank you Maya for writing such heartfelt and feel-good stories of family, love, friendship and community.
Highly recommended.
Thank you NetGalley and to the publisher Allen & Unwin for a wonderful ARC.
Thank you Maya for writing such heartfelt and feel-good stories of family, love, friendship and community.
Highly recommended.
Thank you NetGalley and to the publisher Allen & Unwin for a wonderful ARC.
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