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The Wild Australia Stories #4
Turtle Reef
Unlucky-in-love zoologist Zoe King has given up on men. Moving from Sydney to take up an exciting new role in marine science in the small sugar town of Kiawa is a welcome fresh start. Zoe is immediately charmed by the region's beauty – by its rivers and rainforests, and by its vast cane fields, sweeping from the foothills down to the rocky coral coast. And also by its people – its farmers and fishermen, unhurried and down to earth, proud of their traditions.
Her work at the Reef Centre provides all the passion she needs and Zoe finds a friend in Bridget, the centre’s director. The last thing she wants is to fall for her boss’s boyfriend, cane king Quinn Cooper, so she refuses to acknowledge the attraction between them – even to herself. But things aren’t quite adding up at the Reef Centre and when animals on the reef begin to sicken and die, Zoe’s personal and professional worlds collide. She faces a terrible choice. Will protecting the reef mean betraying the man she loves?
Her work at the Reef Centre provides all the passion she needs and Zoe finds a friend in Bridget, the centre’s director. The last thing she wants is to fall for her boss’s boyfriend, cane king Quinn Cooper, so she refuses to acknowledge the attraction between them – even to herself. But things aren’t quite adding up at the Reef Centre and when animals on the reef begin to sicken and die, Zoe’s personal and professional worlds collide. She faces a terrible choice. Will protecting the reef mean betraying the man she loves?
304 pages, Paperback
Published March 25, 2015
170 people are currently reading
254 people want to read
About the author
Jennifer Scoullar
24 books134 followersJennifer Scoullar Bio
Jennifer has always harboured a deep appreciation and respect for the natural world. Her house is on a hill-top, overlooking valleys of messmate and mountain ash. A pair of old eagles live there too. Black-shouldered wallabies graze by the creek. Eastern Spinebills hover among the callistemon. Jennifer lives with her family on a beautiful property in the mountains, that was left to her by her father. Horses have always been her passion. She grew up on the books of Elyne Mitchell, and all her life she’s ridden and bred horses, in particular Australian Stock Horses. She has nine published novels. Brumby’s Run (Penguin 2012), Currawong Creek (Penguin 2013), Billabong Bend (Penguin 2014), Turtle Reef (Penguin 2015), Journey's End (Penguin 2016), Fortune's Son (Penguin 2017), The Lost Valley (Pilyara Press 2018), The Memory Tree (Pilyara Press 2019) and Wasp Season (Pilyara Press 2020)
Jennifer has always harboured a deep appreciation and respect for the natural world. Her house is on a hill-top, overlooking valleys of messmate and mountain ash. A pair of old eagles live there too. Black-shouldered wallabies graze by the creek. Eastern Spinebills hover among the callistemon. Jennifer lives with her family on a beautiful property in the mountains, that was left to her by her father. Horses have always been her passion. She grew up on the books of Elyne Mitchell, and all her life she’s ridden and bred horses, in particular Australian Stock Horses. She has nine published novels. Brumby’s Run (Penguin 2012), Currawong Creek (Penguin 2013), Billabong Bend (Penguin 2014), Turtle Reef (Penguin 2015), Journey's End (Penguin 2016), Fortune's Son (Penguin 2017), The Lost Valley (Pilyara Press 2018), The Memory Tree (Pilyara Press 2019) and Wasp Season (Pilyara Press 2020)
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 52 reviews
January 13, 2016
With having had too much to drink the night before Zoe King wakes up with a thumping head and not feeling too well at all. Only the one beneficial thing that comes out of the previous night was that she finally managed to end things with her loser boyfriend Hugo, but still she was unhappy with her life. Working at the university library was not her dream job and she truly didn't enjoy it.
Having recently completed her honors degree in Zoology at Sydney University, Zoe hoped to be working for Parks and Wildlife or as a research assistant with CRIRO, but sadly this was not to be. Then the day Zoe receives a phone call from Bridget Macalister, director of the Reef Centre at Kiawa, Zoe is in disbelief, Zoe had applied for a position in the regional Queensland marine parks months ago and Bridget was ringing to tell Zoe the good news that she had been accepted.
Once Zoe settles into her new job she couldn't be happier. Being surrounded by marine life on a daily basis is exactly what Zoe enjoyed. But when things start to change at the Reef Centre, Zoe begins to be concerned for the animals. Will Zoe find out the actual truth behind how some of the animals are dying or will more die before she finds the answers?
Aussie author Jennifer Scoullar has written a very interesting and enjoyable story which I thoroughly loved. Highly recommended.
Having recently completed her honors degree in Zoology at Sydney University, Zoe hoped to be working for Parks and Wildlife or as a research assistant with CRIRO, but sadly this was not to be. Then the day Zoe receives a phone call from Bridget Macalister, director of the Reef Centre at Kiawa, Zoe is in disbelief, Zoe had applied for a position in the regional Queensland marine parks months ago and Bridget was ringing to tell Zoe the good news that she had been accepted.
Once Zoe settles into her new job she couldn't be happier. Being surrounded by marine life on a daily basis is exactly what Zoe enjoyed. But when things start to change at the Reef Centre, Zoe begins to be concerned for the animals. Will Zoe find out the actual truth behind how some of the animals are dying or will more die before she finds the answers?
Aussie author Jennifer Scoullar has written a very interesting and enjoyable story which I thoroughly loved. Highly recommended.
September 25, 2018
Zoe King is thrilled to be offered a job at The Reef Centre, a regional Queensland marine centre. For this suburban Sydney born and raised young woman the move to KIawa, near the sugar cane growing area of Bundaberg is a huge change of lifestyle. Quinn Cooper picks Zoe up at the railway station and she is attracted, even though she has sworn off men after the last prolonged break up with Hugo. But then she finds Quinn is engaged to Bridget Macalister, the director of the Reef Centre. Zoe tries to focus on her research, even while getting roped into various public shows at the centre like going in the shark tank. Despite trying to maintain her research, a lot of things happen that just don’t seem to make any sense to Zoe. She is forced to question so many things and make decisions she would rather not have to make. And they could prove very costly.
The setting in this novel is a character in itself. It is so lovingly and vividly described. Though I have never been to this area of Queensland I now feel like I have as I could see it all clearly. I also learned a lot about dolphins, dugongs and the life of an octopus. I kept reading snippets about the various sea creatures out to my husband. Zoe is an interesting character, prepared to see other’s points of view but at times too outspoken for her own good. I liked the way she stuck up for Josh, Quinn’s much young brother who has a special affinity for dolphins and horses. Josh is a lovely, gentle character. I had a little more trouble taking to Quinn who was bossy and stuck in his ways.
This is a detailed and well reached book that only occasionally slips into being a little didactic. I did enjoy the mystery as well as all the amazing descriptions and the well-developed characters. Anyone into Australian rural fiction with a little romance and a good plot should enjoy this one. I certainly did.
The setting in this novel is a character in itself. It is so lovingly and vividly described. Though I have never been to this area of Queensland I now feel like I have as I could see it all clearly. I also learned a lot about dolphins, dugongs and the life of an octopus. I kept reading snippets about the various sea creatures out to my husband. Zoe is an interesting character, prepared to see other’s points of view but at times too outspoken for her own good. I liked the way she stuck up for Josh, Quinn’s much young brother who has a special affinity for dolphins and horses. Josh is a lovely, gentle character. I had a little more trouble taking to Quinn who was bossy and stuck in his ways.
This is a detailed and well reached book that only occasionally slips into being a little didactic. I did enjoy the mystery as well as all the amazing descriptions and the well-developed characters. Anyone into Australian rural fiction with a little romance and a good plot should enjoy this one. I certainly did.
March 12, 2015
4.5★s
When Zoe King received the telephone call telling her she had been accepted for the position of researcher in marine science at the Reef Centre in the little town of Kiawa on the coast of Queensland, she was delighted. Her life in Sydney had been rapidly going downhill for some time, and with the latest loser of a boyfriend finally out the door, she was happy to have a new start in her life.
The Reef Centre was run by Bridget Macalister who was a lovely young woman; she was also engaged to local resident, Quinn Cooper. Quinn and his brother Josh, along with Bridget were to feature considerably in Zoe’s new life, but the instant attraction Zoe felt for Quinn was something she could do without. She was sworn off men anyway – no problems; right? As she settled into her new job, the magnificent views of Turtle Reef had her gasping in awe – she was going to love working in this place, conducting important research…
Meeting the animals at the Reef Centre; discovering Josh had a deep affinity to the dolphins especially, which meant he could do anything with them – rescuing injured turtles, octopus and dolphins; Zoe was finding her delight with the surroundings, with her day to day work surreal. But when little things began to go wrong; first with her research data, then with animals dying on the reef, she knew she had to find out what was happening. And when she suddenly uncovered terrible lies and secrets, she was shocked – what could she do? She had to save the reef – the animals were her top priority; but what would it do to her own future?
I thoroughly enjoyed Turtle Reef by Aussie author Jennifer Scoullar. Although a little slow in the beginning, it didn’t take long to get into the story; I found the mystery and intrigue quite gripping and the facts I learned especially about octopus toward the end of the story quite fascinating. Great characters too – I particularly liked Josh and his devotion to the animals. I have no hesitation in recommending Turtle Reef highly.
With thanks to NetGalley and the publishers for my copy to read and review.
When Zoe King received the telephone call telling her she had been accepted for the position of researcher in marine science at the Reef Centre in the little town of Kiawa on the coast of Queensland, she was delighted. Her life in Sydney had been rapidly going downhill for some time, and with the latest loser of a boyfriend finally out the door, she was happy to have a new start in her life.
The Reef Centre was run by Bridget Macalister who was a lovely young woman; she was also engaged to local resident, Quinn Cooper. Quinn and his brother Josh, along with Bridget were to feature considerably in Zoe’s new life, but the instant attraction Zoe felt for Quinn was something she could do without. She was sworn off men anyway – no problems; right? As she settled into her new job, the magnificent views of Turtle Reef had her gasping in awe – she was going to love working in this place, conducting important research…
Meeting the animals at the Reef Centre; discovering Josh had a deep affinity to the dolphins especially, which meant he could do anything with them – rescuing injured turtles, octopus and dolphins; Zoe was finding her delight with the surroundings, with her day to day work surreal. But when little things began to go wrong; first with her research data, then with animals dying on the reef, she knew she had to find out what was happening. And when she suddenly uncovered terrible lies and secrets, she was shocked – what could she do? She had to save the reef – the animals were her top priority; but what would it do to her own future?
I thoroughly enjoyed Turtle Reef by Aussie author Jennifer Scoullar. Although a little slow in the beginning, it didn’t take long to get into the story; I found the mystery and intrigue quite gripping and the facts I learned especially about octopus toward the end of the story quite fascinating. Great characters too – I particularly liked Josh and his devotion to the animals. I have no hesitation in recommending Turtle Reef highly.
With thanks to NetGalley and the publishers for my copy to read and review.
March 27, 2015
Turtle Reef is Jennifer Scoullar's fifth novel, and her fourth engaging contemporary regional romance.
City girl Zoe King is thrilled when she lands her dream job at a marine park and research center in Kiawa, a small town in northern Queensland, looking forward to working with the Reef Center's impressively credentialed director, Bridget Macalister.
Though the job proves more demanding than she expected, Zoe quickly learns to embrace its challenges, impressed by Bridget's dedication to the center and delighted by the aquarium's residents, including their six rescue dolphins.
Its the findings from Zoe's first research project, monitoring the local dugong population and mapping seagrass meadows, that alerts her to a problem not only with the reef, but also the operation of the marine center.
Conservation management and environmental protection is a major theme of this novel. Set in a small sugar cane community on the Queensland coast, Scoullar writes of the risks outdated cane farming practices poses to the coastal environment, the general threats to our fragile marine ecosystem as well as the desirability of rehabilitating wild creatures for return to their natural environment.
The intrigue in the novel is a touch slow to develop but I enjoyed the measured unraveling of secrets. The suspense is fairly low key for most of the novel but the danger Zoe faces when she comes too close to working out exactly what is going on came as a surprise, raising the tension considerably.
There is an unconventional romance for Zoe in Turtle Reef. Quinn Cooper is a fifth generation local cane farmer and a caring guardian of his brain injured younger brother, Josh. Zoe is attracted to his good looks and down to earth charm from their first meeting, but as Bridget's long term boyfriend, Quinn is strictly off limits. I have to be honest, I found the relationship a little odd, though the chemistry is there, the circumstances are awkward.
The Reef Center is home to a half dozen rescue dolphins, given delightful personalities by Scoullar. I was charmed by Josh's interactions with them and saddened by the way in which they were betrayed. I was surprised to learn how intelligent octopuses can be, and fell in love with Einstein.
Scoullar's descriptions of the beauty of the reef and the ocean are highlights of the novel.
"All around them lay a tapestry....Brightly coloured parrot fish abounded and were utterly fearless. Zoe could hear the soft chomping of their beaks as the grazed on the branching coral gardens. Blue-spotted lagoon rays scooted past,... and a shovelnose shark, with its strange triangular snout."
Turtle Reef is a lovely novel from a storyteller whose fiction evokes the romance of the Australian landscape, and the heart.
June 11, 2025
4.5 ⭐️s
This was quite good. I’ve read a few books in the Wild Australia series and this is the finest so far. I thoroughly enjoyed reading about marine wildlife, and Zoe, working at the Turtle Reef Centre in Kiawa near Bundaberg, Qld as a researcher. The characters are pleasant, and it’s not heavy on the romance. It’s more about the sea life, and the mystery surrounding the animals dying on the reef. I loved the Bundaberg setting…breathtaking! A place hubby and I want to revisit, hopefully sometime this year.
Audiobook via BorrowBox
Published by: Bolinda audio
Read by Eleanor Stankiewicz
Duration: 10 hrs, 15 min. 1.25x Speed
This was quite good. I’ve read a few books in the Wild Australia series and this is the finest so far. I thoroughly enjoyed reading about marine wildlife, and Zoe, working at the Turtle Reef Centre in Kiawa near Bundaberg, Qld as a researcher. The characters are pleasant, and it’s not heavy on the romance. It’s more about the sea life, and the mystery surrounding the animals dying on the reef. I loved the Bundaberg setting…breathtaking! A place hubby and I want to revisit, hopefully sometime this year.
Audiobook via BorrowBox
Published by: Bolinda audio
Read by Eleanor Stankiewicz
Duration: 10 hrs, 15 min. 1.25x Speed
March 24, 2015
My View:
Jennifer Scoullar has a gift; she is able to weave the most extraordinarily beautiful, inspiring stories about Australia’s natural environment, ecology, wild life and conservation into a modern romance. How unique! Ms Scoullar writes with verve and such radiant colours I could almost see myself underwater exploring the Great Barrier Reef, her images are so vivid and engaging:
“Black fins cut the surface and a vast shadow passed underneath them…Manta Rays, five in all caught in a courtship train of magnificent grace…The larger female leading the dance was five metres across, wingtip to wingtip…The eager suitors mirrored the female’s every move, performing a series of backward rolls, looking for all the world as if they had been choreographed…they reappeared like magic, slicing back into the water many metres from where they had left it, flapping wings like giant birds as they flew away….”
Manta Rays, turtles, dolphins, the colourful fish of the Barrier Reef, even the humble octopus all burst into life on these pages. All descriptions poignant, magnificent, captivating. And by a wonderful coincidence when we went on a walk today along the banks of the Blackwood River (Augusta Western Australia) we came across a playful pod of about five dolphins, close to shore, who delighted us with a display pf graceful flips and dives as they powered through the water. What beautiful wild mammals! What a special book.
Jennifer Scoullar has a gift; she is able to weave the most extraordinarily beautiful, inspiring stories about Australia’s natural environment, ecology, wild life and conservation into a modern romance. How unique! Ms Scoullar writes with verve and such radiant colours I could almost see myself underwater exploring the Great Barrier Reef, her images are so vivid and engaging:
“Black fins cut the surface and a vast shadow passed underneath them…Manta Rays, five in all caught in a courtship train of magnificent grace…The larger female leading the dance was five metres across, wingtip to wingtip…The eager suitors mirrored the female’s every move, performing a series of backward rolls, looking for all the world as if they had been choreographed…they reappeared like magic, slicing back into the water many metres from where they had left it, flapping wings like giant birds as they flew away….”
Manta Rays, turtles, dolphins, the colourful fish of the Barrier Reef, even the humble octopus all burst into life on these pages. All descriptions poignant, magnificent, captivating. And by a wonderful coincidence when we went on a walk today along the banks of the Blackwood River (Augusta Western Australia) we came across a playful pod of about five dolphins, close to shore, who delighted us with a display pf graceful flips and dives as they powered through the water. What beautiful wild mammals! What a special book.
April 11, 2015
I found this difficult to put down. The romance of the story was really very much an after thought, and while I personally feel it did not lend much to the story, it was still nice to read about, and made me smile. The overarching story-lines built up nicely, until one got dropped and forgotten about, but then the major storyline climaxed deliciously. I would have preferred a bit more detail and explanations in the resolution.
April 17, 2015
For zoologist Zoe King, it’s her dream job. Working at a Reef Centre in Kiawa near Bundaberg in Queensland Zoe not only gets to rehabilitate animals and return them to their natural habitat but she will also get to conduct exciting research and maybe even help implement changes to protect the reef. Zoe is a passionate conservationist and at first, everything about her job seems perfect. Her boss Bridget is friendly and capable, welcoming Zoe and seemingly enthusiastic about the same things as Zoe. Zoe is also given the guest quarters on the large cane farm of Bridget’s fiance Quinn Cooper and she begins to embrace a more outdoor life, learning to ride and working with horses.
But there are some complications. Zoe didn’t count on feeling an immediate and powerful attraction to Quinn, despite the fact that she knows he’s off limits. He belongs to Bridget and although she makes the decision to ignore her feelings, she can’t ignore when things begin to not add up at the Reef Centre. Conflicting stories and some strange behaviour make her begin to question exactly what the goal of the centre is. And when Zoe’s research shows that animals on the reef are dying in numbers, she finds herself faced with an answer that could possibly drive a wedge between her and the man she has come to love. Zoe will have to decide if the future and health of the reef are more important than her own future happiness.
Jennifer Scoullar’s fourth novel takes readers to the ‘Gateway to the Barrier Reef’ in a small town close to Bundaberg in Queensland. Zoologist Zoe King has moved from Sydney to Kiawa to take up her dream job working at the local Reef Centre, a place that rehabilitates marine life and also houses those that are not fit to be returned to their native habitat. There are dolphins, turtles, sharks and an array of others such as fish, octopus. The centre also operates as a tourist attraction with the resident dolphins performing in shows, which helps keep the bills paid. For Zoe, it is a quick immersion from the theory of her recently completed degree to a much more practical aspect as she will be feeding and working with a variety of different animals as well as being able to map the reef and conduct extensive research.
Zoe is a wonderfully passionate conservationist who has some really strong ideas about her career and what she wants to be able to achieve. Her focus is on rehabilitating the sick and injured animals that come in and getting them returned to the ocean as soon as possible. Early on she notices several dolphins that look good candidates for a release only to be quickly informed that they are ‘lifers’ who won’t be able to be released. Zoe faces the challenge of being new and therefore not really having much say and she’s also inexperienced in the field, intimidated by Bridget’s qualifications. I liked and admired Zoe as a character, her enthusiasm and her determination is wonderful to read and I enjoyed learning about her job a lot. I wanted to study marine biology briefly as a teen until I realised that well, science and I were not entirely friends. Also I can’t really swim. But anyway, reading this book reminded me of that and how beautiful these creatures are and how important it is to do everything possible to protect them and their habitats. I found myself moved by the most unlikeliest of things – I must congratulate Jen Scoullar because I’m pretty sure I would’ve thought before reading this book it would be impossible to cry over an octopus!
I have to admit, I didn’t particularly find the romance aspect of this book much to my liking. Part of that perhaps had something to do with the fact that Quinn was engaged to Bridget but mostly I think it was just Quinn himself. He was far too arrogant and bossy for me – “sit here, do that, get in, don’t drink Coke it’s bad for you, here’s an iced tea instead”. If a man asked me what I’d like at a pub/cafe and I ordered a Coke and he came back with an iced tea, I’d dump it on his head. I loathe iced tea. I don’t like people that feel as though they have the right to make decisions for others. Zoe is a big girl, if she wants a diet Coke, get her a darn diet Coke! This was something that tended to carry through the book and most of the time I found him overly defensive and aggressive. At times he’s pretty horrible to Zoe, even though she came off a bit nosy when she was trying to do the right thing. I liked Quinn a little more right at the end of the book, perhaps Zoe will be a good influence on him – well I’m sure she will be actually because his attitudes really do change. Quinn learns to stand on his own two feet and have his own opinions and not just do things because that’s the way his father did them. I did like Quinn’s relationship with his brother Josh (who is a wonderful character and a huge part of this book). Even though it’s laced with mistakes and frustration you can tell that he loves Josh and he really does want the best for him and to keep him safe. And when Quinn realises that he is making mistakes, he does do his utmost best to fix them. It’s a slowish sort of process but I can understand his fear in letting the reins go a little and letting Josh begin to make decisions again for himself and do things which might potentially put him in danger again. But they’re things Josh not only loves but also needs in order to live his life.
I really enjoyed this – I love how Jennifer Scoullar manages to incorporate strong themes of conservation and protection into her stories without making it seem like a lecture. Bundaberg is further north than I’ve ever been and I have to admit it and its surrounds haven’t really come up on my radar as places to visit before. But I feel as though up there might be a part of the world I need to see.
But there are some complications. Zoe didn’t count on feeling an immediate and powerful attraction to Quinn, despite the fact that she knows he’s off limits. He belongs to Bridget and although she makes the decision to ignore her feelings, she can’t ignore when things begin to not add up at the Reef Centre. Conflicting stories and some strange behaviour make her begin to question exactly what the goal of the centre is. And when Zoe’s research shows that animals on the reef are dying in numbers, she finds herself faced with an answer that could possibly drive a wedge between her and the man she has come to love. Zoe will have to decide if the future and health of the reef are more important than her own future happiness.
Jennifer Scoullar’s fourth novel takes readers to the ‘Gateway to the Barrier Reef’ in a small town close to Bundaberg in Queensland. Zoologist Zoe King has moved from Sydney to Kiawa to take up her dream job working at the local Reef Centre, a place that rehabilitates marine life and also houses those that are not fit to be returned to their native habitat. There are dolphins, turtles, sharks and an array of others such as fish, octopus. The centre also operates as a tourist attraction with the resident dolphins performing in shows, which helps keep the bills paid. For Zoe, it is a quick immersion from the theory of her recently completed degree to a much more practical aspect as she will be feeding and working with a variety of different animals as well as being able to map the reef and conduct extensive research.
Zoe is a wonderfully passionate conservationist who has some really strong ideas about her career and what she wants to be able to achieve. Her focus is on rehabilitating the sick and injured animals that come in and getting them returned to the ocean as soon as possible. Early on she notices several dolphins that look good candidates for a release only to be quickly informed that they are ‘lifers’ who won’t be able to be released. Zoe faces the challenge of being new and therefore not really having much say and she’s also inexperienced in the field, intimidated by Bridget’s qualifications. I liked and admired Zoe as a character, her enthusiasm and her determination is wonderful to read and I enjoyed learning about her job a lot. I wanted to study marine biology briefly as a teen until I realised that well, science and I were not entirely friends. Also I can’t really swim. But anyway, reading this book reminded me of that and how beautiful these creatures are and how important it is to do everything possible to protect them and their habitats. I found myself moved by the most unlikeliest of things – I must congratulate Jen Scoullar because I’m pretty sure I would’ve thought before reading this book it would be impossible to cry over an octopus!
I have to admit, I didn’t particularly find the romance aspect of this book much to my liking. Part of that perhaps had something to do with the fact that Quinn was engaged to Bridget but mostly I think it was just Quinn himself. He was far too arrogant and bossy for me – “sit here, do that, get in, don’t drink Coke it’s bad for you, here’s an iced tea instead”. If a man asked me what I’d like at a pub/cafe and I ordered a Coke and he came back with an iced tea, I’d dump it on his head. I loathe iced tea. I don’t like people that feel as though they have the right to make decisions for others. Zoe is a big girl, if she wants a diet Coke, get her a darn diet Coke! This was something that tended to carry through the book and most of the time I found him overly defensive and aggressive. At times he’s pretty horrible to Zoe, even though she came off a bit nosy when she was trying to do the right thing. I liked Quinn a little more right at the end of the book, perhaps Zoe will be a good influence on him – well I’m sure she will be actually because his attitudes really do change. Quinn learns to stand on his own two feet and have his own opinions and not just do things because that’s the way his father did them. I did like Quinn’s relationship with his brother Josh (who is a wonderful character and a huge part of this book). Even though it’s laced with mistakes and frustration you can tell that he loves Josh and he really does want the best for him and to keep him safe. And when Quinn realises that he is making mistakes, he does do his utmost best to fix them. It’s a slowish sort of process but I can understand his fear in letting the reins go a little and letting Josh begin to make decisions again for himself and do things which might potentially put him in danger again. But they’re things Josh not only loves but also needs in order to live his life.
I really enjoyed this – I love how Jennifer Scoullar manages to incorporate strong themes of conservation and protection into her stories without making it seem like a lecture. Bundaberg is further north than I’ve ever been and I have to admit it and its surrounds haven’t really come up on my radar as places to visit before. But I feel as though up there might be a part of the world I need to see.
May 1, 2015
Jennifer Scoullar’s Currawong Creek was the first Aussie rural romance I’ve ever read –it was sweet, it was heart-warming. It won me over and made me want to read lots more of the genre. Hence, my interest in Turtle Creek. Scoullar’s love for nature truly comes alive in these pages and is beautifully highlighted in this tale of romance.
It was a bit of a tough first half to read. It was slow to engage and there were a few roll-the-eyes moments for me. I just couldn’t connect with Zoe who at first, swore off men and in the next chapter, found herself pretty much fallen for Quinn. Yes, it was repeated that she’s sworn off men and had to work hard to resist Quinn but still she let herself daydream about being with Quinn. I found this whole business frustrating and unbelievable. On top of that, I also found Quinn to be quite aggravating (most especially when he decided what Zoe should drink, TWICE!). I just couldn’t get into this romance story.
The mystery part of the story was quite enjoyable. I liked the way clues were dropped and Zoe’s spunk in taking on the investigation. The resolution, however, deflated me. I think, being a mystery buff, I expected some sort of twist or at least, something a little more convoluted. This might have to do with having just finished a mystery/thriller novel prior to reading this book.
The best bits about this book, however, was the prose on nature. Scoullar trotted out one after another amazing pieces of this world (eg. dolphins, octopus, dugongs, etc) in such a skilful way of weaving into the story without it all being too much. Turtle Reef is basically an invitation to the readers to enjoy and protect this beautiful world we have been blessed with.
Thanks to Penguin Books Australia for copy of book in exchange of honest review
It was a bit of a tough first half to read. It was slow to engage and there were a few roll-the-eyes moments for me. I just couldn’t connect with Zoe who at first, swore off men and in the next chapter, found herself pretty much fallen for Quinn. Yes, it was repeated that she’s sworn off men and had to work hard to resist Quinn but still she let herself daydream about being with Quinn. I found this whole business frustrating and unbelievable. On top of that, I also found Quinn to be quite aggravating (most especially when he decided what Zoe should drink, TWICE!). I just couldn’t get into this romance story.
The mystery part of the story was quite enjoyable. I liked the way clues were dropped and Zoe’s spunk in taking on the investigation. The resolution, however, deflated me. I think, being a mystery buff, I expected some sort of twist or at least, something a little more convoluted. This might have to do with having just finished a mystery/thriller novel prior to reading this book.
The best bits about this book, however, was the prose on nature. Scoullar trotted out one after another amazing pieces of this world (eg. dolphins, octopus, dugongs, etc) in such a skilful way of weaving into the story without it all being too much. Turtle Reef is basically an invitation to the readers to enjoy and protect this beautiful world we have been blessed with.
Thanks to Penguin Books Australia for copy of book in exchange of honest review
April 15, 2015
I fell in love with Jennifer Scoullar's writing after inhaling Currawong Creek in 2013 and Billabong Bend in 2014, she has a beautiful way with words and her love for the natural world sings.
The beauty and diversity of the region, rainforest to reef, the sugar cane fields and hand-in-hand, the challenges of protecting our reef and marine animals from ignorance, age-old traditions, outdated and often dangerous farming practices. I'm passionate about reef protection so you might have guessed I was cheering Zoe on for actively driving the wheels of change.
Turtle Reef has an interesting bunch of characters, an intriguing mystery, a splash of romance (but the circumstances surrounding it are just a tad weird) but for me, the stars of the show were the animals.
I liked Zoe and Quinn's younger brother Josh and his special affinity with animals was particularly endearing but I loved the dolphins, especially Kane, Echo and Mirrhi, the turtles, Einstein the hammer octopus and the Arabian mare Aisha. I loved learning about the female octopus, seagrass mapping and the principles of operant conditioning and and I got teary over the dugong and Einstein ... animals undo me.
Turtle Reef was a particularly special read for me, Kiawa and the Reef Centre bringing with it nostalgic memories of my visits to Bargara and Mon Repos Conservation Centre and more recently Lady Elliot Island (southern tip of the Great Barrier Reef) the highly protected "green zone" sanctuary for marine and other wildlife.
I wonder where Jennifer Scoullar is taking us next? ... can't wait!
The beauty and diversity of the region, rainforest to reef, the sugar cane fields and hand-in-hand, the challenges of protecting our reef and marine animals from ignorance, age-old traditions, outdated and often dangerous farming practices. I'm passionate about reef protection so you might have guessed I was cheering Zoe on for actively driving the wheels of change.
Turtle Reef has an interesting bunch of characters, an intriguing mystery, a splash of romance (but the circumstances surrounding it are just a tad weird) but for me, the stars of the show were the animals.
I liked Zoe and Quinn's younger brother Josh and his special affinity with animals was particularly endearing but I loved the dolphins, especially Kane, Echo and Mirrhi, the turtles, Einstein the hammer octopus and the Arabian mare Aisha. I loved learning about the female octopus, seagrass mapping and the principles of operant conditioning and and I got teary over the dugong and Einstein ... animals undo me.
Turtle Reef was a particularly special read for me, Kiawa and the Reef Centre bringing with it nostalgic memories of my visits to Bargara and Mon Repos Conservation Centre and more recently Lady Elliot Island (southern tip of the Great Barrier Reef) the highly protected "green zone" sanctuary for marine and other wildlife.
I wonder where Jennifer Scoullar is taking us next? ... can't wait!
Want to read
July 4, 2019🎁 FREE on Amazon today (7/4/2019)! 🎁
December 24, 2017
(I received a free copy of this book from Net Galley in exchange for an honest review.)
Unlucky-in-love zoologist Zoe King has given up on men. Moving from Sydney to take up an exciting new role in marine science in the small sugar town of Kiawa is a welcome fresh start. Zoe is immediately charmed by the region's beauty – by its rivers and rainforests, and by its vast cane fields, sweeping from the foothills down to the rocky coral coast. And also by its people – its farmers and fishermen, unhurried and down to earth, proud of their traditions.
Her work at the Reef Centre provides all the passion she needs and Zoe finds a friend in Bridget, the centre's director. So the last thing she expects is to fall for her boss's fiancé, cane king Quinn Cooper. When animals on the reef begin to sicken and die, Zoe's personal and professional worlds collide. She faces a terrible choice. Will protecting the reef mean betraying the man she loves?
I have been quite lucky of late with the quality of novels coming out of the "rural romance" genre (I do hate that name but it is what people are calling it) - this novel is another that breaks the trend of red dirt and girls with hats. And what a blessing that is.
This story - which is centred around environmental protection and conservation - is a refreshing take on the genre. All the plot elements are still there - small town, love interests, personal challenges, and a suspense/mystery plot for the protagonists to resolve. However, due to the style of writing, this zoomed past the majority of RR books and went pretty high on the list of all time favourites.
Also, anyone who is interested in the wildlife of Australia should have a look at this book. The authors descriptions and prose when describing dolphins, octopus and dugongs (just for an example) is almost worth the price of admission. Her story-telling is first rate and so is her knack for allowing the reader to see what she sees, to experience it first-hand, almost.
The one down-side for me was Quinn Cooper. Not a nice character, treated those in his life pretty poorly and I just didn't like the guy. And, following from that, those whose lives he treats badly, end up just "taking it" for the most part...which annoyed me too.
However, apart from that one minor issue, this was a great read and I think it is one to be recommended highly.
Paul
ARH
Unlucky-in-love zoologist Zoe King has given up on men. Moving from Sydney to take up an exciting new role in marine science in the small sugar town of Kiawa is a welcome fresh start. Zoe is immediately charmed by the region's beauty – by its rivers and rainforests, and by its vast cane fields, sweeping from the foothills down to the rocky coral coast. And also by its people – its farmers and fishermen, unhurried and down to earth, proud of their traditions.
Her work at the Reef Centre provides all the passion she needs and Zoe finds a friend in Bridget, the centre's director. So the last thing she expects is to fall for her boss's fiancé, cane king Quinn Cooper. When animals on the reef begin to sicken and die, Zoe's personal and professional worlds collide. She faces a terrible choice. Will protecting the reef mean betraying the man she loves?
I have been quite lucky of late with the quality of novels coming out of the "rural romance" genre (I do hate that name but it is what people are calling it) - this novel is another that breaks the trend of red dirt and girls with hats. And what a blessing that is.
This story - which is centred around environmental protection and conservation - is a refreshing take on the genre. All the plot elements are still there - small town, love interests, personal challenges, and a suspense/mystery plot for the protagonists to resolve. However, due to the style of writing, this zoomed past the majority of RR books and went pretty high on the list of all time favourites.
Also, anyone who is interested in the wildlife of Australia should have a look at this book. The authors descriptions and prose when describing dolphins, octopus and dugongs (just for an example) is almost worth the price of admission. Her story-telling is first rate and so is her knack for allowing the reader to see what she sees, to experience it first-hand, almost.
The one down-side for me was Quinn Cooper. Not a nice character, treated those in his life pretty poorly and I just didn't like the guy. And, following from that, those whose lives he treats badly, end up just "taking it" for the most part...which annoyed me too.
However, apart from that one minor issue, this was a great read and I think it is one to be recommended highly.
Paul
ARH
November 19, 2015
The spectacular Queensland coastal region is the backdrop of Jennifer Scoullar’s latest book, Turtle Reef. Scoullar’s fourth book is brimming with wonderful references to Australia’s rich marine life, from turtles, octopuses and dolphins to the Great Barrier Reef. It follows the story of Zoe King, who takes up a post as a researcher on a reef centre in a remote part off the coast of Queensland. With her background in marine biology, Zoe finds her work fulfilling and even has time for a little romance. However, it soon becomes clear that her research is starting to reveal secrets that others would rather stayed buried in the sand.
It is safe to say that I am a firm fan of Jennifer Scoullar, having read and thoroughly enjoyed all her previous titles. I admire the direction she has chosen to take with this book and her previous book (which I loved ) Billabong Bend. Underpinning the book are strong messages of the importance of protecting and conserving our environment. Turtle Reef succeeds in highlighting the value of our marine/coastal landscape to the reader. In terms of the storyline, it was of a high standard, which has become the norm for Scoullar’s works. The mystery and suspense was set at just the right level, it kept me intrigued throughout. There is no question that Scoullar knows her subject, I came away from the book having a deeper appreciation and knowledge of Australian sea life. The scenes featuring the characters interactions with the turtles and dolphins were particularly appealing. The romance in this book is on a smaller scale and did not detract from the wonderful storyline, rather it serves to compliment the storyline, which I enjoyed. So on the whole, the inspiring characters, breathtaking landscape and meaningful messages embedded in the narrative about Australia’s ecology, make Turtle Reef a special read for me and I hope it will for you too.
It is safe to say that I am a firm fan of Jennifer Scoullar, having read and thoroughly enjoyed all her previous titles. I admire the direction she has chosen to take with this book and her previous book (which I loved ) Billabong Bend. Underpinning the book are strong messages of the importance of protecting and conserving our environment. Turtle Reef succeeds in highlighting the value of our marine/coastal landscape to the reader. In terms of the storyline, it was of a high standard, which has become the norm for Scoullar’s works. The mystery and suspense was set at just the right level, it kept me intrigued throughout. There is no question that Scoullar knows her subject, I came away from the book having a deeper appreciation and knowledge of Australian sea life. The scenes featuring the characters interactions with the turtles and dolphins were particularly appealing. The romance in this book is on a smaller scale and did not detract from the wonderful storyline, rather it serves to compliment the storyline, which I enjoyed. So on the whole, the inspiring characters, breathtaking landscape and meaningful messages embedded in the narrative about Australia’s ecology, make Turtle Reef a special read for me and I hope it will for you too.
May 16, 2015
This book is a delightful breath of warm tropical air with a dash of romance with a well researched view of what's happening out on our Great Barrier Reef. If follows the path of marine biologist Zoe King arrives at the marine centre to start her research but all is not as it seems. Of course there's complications, with the man she's falling in love with being strictly off limits and still believes in doing things the 'old way'. Her research starts to uncover some uncomfortable truths and someone does not want those secrets revealed. The characters are complex and interesting with themes of forgiveness and compassion flowing through the storyline.
The author brings to light some very sensitive environmental issues (agricultural run-off, seagrass dieback, marine diseases, reef bleaching) about what's actually happening out in our oceans and particularly the reefs off the Queensland coast in Australia. Her descriptions bring the reef and rainforest to life and reading this book is like going on a mini-eco-holiday without getting wet or having to learn how to scuba dive!
I particularly enjoyed the animal encounters (dolphins, turtles, octopus and horses).
Note: I'm going to be one of those eco-tourists very soon (trip booked) but by reading this book I already feel like I've been!!!
The author brings to light some very sensitive environmental issues (agricultural run-off, seagrass dieback, marine diseases, reef bleaching) about what's actually happening out in our oceans and particularly the reefs off the Queensland coast in Australia. Her descriptions bring the reef and rainforest to life and reading this book is like going on a mini-eco-holiday without getting wet or having to learn how to scuba dive!
I particularly enjoyed the animal encounters (dolphins, turtles, octopus and horses).
Note: I'm going to be one of those eco-tourists very soon (trip booked) but by reading this book I already feel like I've been!!!
April 27, 2016
A lot of the books I've been reading lately have been easy reads so I've been getting through quite a few. Jennifer Scoullar's 'Turtle Reef' was another of these. I don't often enjoy stories that have so much detailed information in them they read like text books, but in this case, the information on the Great Barrier Reef and its marine life was fascinating, even though it read a bit like Marine Biology 101 couched in conversations. Who knew the fate of the female octopus after giving birth? Well I do now. And that marine mammal specialists now believe it is better to rehabilitate dolphins in captivity through encouraging natural behaviours rather than being trained to perform for an audience. The actual romance and various plots certainly took a back seat to the author's obvious love of the Reef, its marine life and the need to protect and conserve this special environment.
February 1, 2015
4.5
I've been on a real reading roll this weekend. 4 books, 4 winners. Turtle Reef, the latest from Jennifer Scoullar, was one of them.
Vivid, suspenseful and lush in its setting, Turtle Reef is a book I have really been keen to read, and I was so not disappointed! Zoe is a fabulous heroine - brave, intelligent, honest, passionate. Quinn's a bit of a mystery man, but I think you'll all like him. How things develop between them....well, I am not going to kill any fairies here, but I really like how it did.
A full review will go up closer to the publication date.
I've been on a real reading roll this weekend. 4 books, 4 winners. Turtle Reef, the latest from Jennifer Scoullar, was one of them.
Vivid, suspenseful and lush in its setting, Turtle Reef is a book I have really been keen to read, and I was so not disappointed! Zoe is a fabulous heroine - brave, intelligent, honest, passionate. Quinn's a bit of a mystery man, but I think you'll all like him. How things develop between them....well, I am not going to kill any fairies here, but I really like how it did.
A full review will go up closer to the publication date.
August 26, 2015
Turtle Reef is a love story, not just between people but of the land, sea and the environmental elements that make a place so special.
Jennifer Scoullar has written a lovely diorama of a beautiful part of Queensland and filled it with interesting characters and an engaging plot. Her prose is well structured and the pace is just right for a love story.
I would recommend this novel to anyone who loves their stories filled with panoramic views and plenty of sugar.
Jennifer Scoullar has written a lovely diorama of a beautiful part of Queensland and filled it with interesting characters and an engaging plot. Her prose is well structured and the pace is just right for a love story.
I would recommend this novel to anyone who loves their stories filled with panoramic views and plenty of sugar.
August 9, 2016
I loved this story. I usually read crime fiction, but I needed a break from all the murder. This fit the bill perfectly. It had enough of a mystery to satisfy the detective in me, but it was just a joy to read. Great characters, wonderful setting, brilliantly told story. Loved it.
April 5, 2015
This is the first novel by this author I have read. I did enjoy it but not as much as some others in same genre.
August 23, 2022
Love her writing. All aussie through and through she captures the majesty of the surroundings that shes writing about and brings it to life for you even if you haven't been there.
August 11, 2019
The Wild Australia Stories Series:
Brumby’s Run #1 – This is my first read by this author and I love it. I felt like I was there in those areas of AU. The vivid descriptions, the variety of everyday characters, the horses and all the background information just kept me glued to the pages. I could not put the book down and I had another book to review: this book came from my library. I took my time savoring every word and the storylines and was happy the author stayed home, instead of writing about the US or some other place, sharing the lifestyles and traditions in her neck of AU. The extra material not usually found in many books was extremely interesting and enjoyable to read about: the depth of the training; horse breeds; and even the proper handling of the environment. All the background information added substance to the tapestry of the story. I will read every book I can find from Ms. Scoullar. 5*
Currawong Creek #2 – This book is just as great to read as Brumby’s Run. Clare is a difficult person to like. She flip-flops between sensible and plain stupid too much and to extremes. She does running away well but not working out problems. Good storylines full with plenty of love, sacrifice and the power of healing with the use of therapy animals. The other main characters were good and interesting, along with most of the secondary characters. There are good expectations and a couple of surprises concerning friendship. Again, I felt as if I was there through Ms. S’s vivid descriptions. This is a feel good story complete with romance and shared loves. 4*
Turtle Reef #4 – This story is wonderful and heartbreaking. I found Ms. S’s vivid descriptions about the sea and her creatures, and the reefs, their functions and survival against man interesting and intriguing. The dugongs are very interesting and I learned quite a bit about them. Through Einstein the octopus, I gained a respect for the species, especially after learning about the sacrifices the females make for their young. This is y favorite of the three books that I’ve read so far. As interesting as the creatures were, the human characters held up their end – interesting, talented and varying from wonderful to damaged but always believable. Einstein and Aisha were my favorites with Zoe pulling in third. 5*
Journey’s End #5 – Wonderful and heartbreaking, this heartwarming story has a touch of romance making Journey’s End another top favorite of mine. All four stories were great, but Turtle and Journey grabbed my heart and made tears flow. I enjoyed Ms. S’s wild AU stories with her well-written characters and her vivid descriptions placing the reader deep into the tapestry of intriguing storylines and interesting background on AU and her wildlife. Dusty was my favorite character and Taj lent a mysterious element to a well-written story. 5*
The Wild Australia Stories Series end.
The Tasmanian Tales:
Fortune’s Son #1 – So sad and so heartbreaking, the heartwarming multiple storylines about Tasmania, her culture and her creatures was so interesting and intriguing; it was another hard to put down story. The well-written characters, the author’s vivid descriptions, and talented storytelling abilities place the reader deep into the weave of a beautiful tapestry of love, sacrifice and the culture and wildlife of Tasmania, with glimpses of AU. Bear is my favorite character next to Tasmania. 5*
The Lost Valley #2 – This story begins in 1929 with most of the family involved from Fortune’s Son. This book is so sad and so heartbreaking, as well as so heartwarming, intriguing, interesting and uplifting. The vivid descriptions woven with the old and new storylines make a substantial tapestry of love and sacrifice amongst the history of Tasmania, her people and her creatures and her culture. The 600 plus pages just flew by and I could not put this book down until I read the last page. I chain read all the books I had by this author and never once was bored or tired of reading about AU and Tasmania. the excitement over finding such a talented and creative storyteller/author never stopped. Rereading these books in the future, which is something I seldom do anymore, is a certain possibility. 5*
The Tasmanian Tales end.
Brumby’s Run #1 – This is my first read by this author and I love it. I felt like I was there in those areas of AU. The vivid descriptions, the variety of everyday characters, the horses and all the background information just kept me glued to the pages. I could not put the book down and I had another book to review: this book came from my library. I took my time savoring every word and the storylines and was happy the author stayed home, instead of writing about the US or some other place, sharing the lifestyles and traditions in her neck of AU. The extra material not usually found in many books was extremely interesting and enjoyable to read about: the depth of the training; horse breeds; and even the proper handling of the environment. All the background information added substance to the tapestry of the story. I will read every book I can find from Ms. Scoullar. 5*
Currawong Creek #2 – This book is just as great to read as Brumby’s Run. Clare is a difficult person to like. She flip-flops between sensible and plain stupid too much and to extremes. She does running away well but not working out problems. Good storylines full with plenty of love, sacrifice and the power of healing with the use of therapy animals. The other main characters were good and interesting, along with most of the secondary characters. There are good expectations and a couple of surprises concerning friendship. Again, I felt as if I was there through Ms. S’s vivid descriptions. This is a feel good story complete with romance and shared loves. 4*
Turtle Reef #4 – This story is wonderful and heartbreaking. I found Ms. S’s vivid descriptions about the sea and her creatures, and the reefs, their functions and survival against man interesting and intriguing. The dugongs are very interesting and I learned quite a bit about them. Through Einstein the octopus, I gained a respect for the species, especially after learning about the sacrifices the females make for their young. This is y favorite of the three books that I’ve read so far. As interesting as the creatures were, the human characters held up their end – interesting, talented and varying from wonderful to damaged but always believable. Einstein and Aisha were my favorites with Zoe pulling in third. 5*
Journey’s End #5 – Wonderful and heartbreaking, this heartwarming story has a touch of romance making Journey’s End another top favorite of mine. All four stories were great, but Turtle and Journey grabbed my heart and made tears flow. I enjoyed Ms. S’s wild AU stories with her well-written characters and her vivid descriptions placing the reader deep into the tapestry of intriguing storylines and interesting background on AU and her wildlife. Dusty was my favorite character and Taj lent a mysterious element to a well-written story. 5*
The Wild Australia Stories Series end.
The Tasmanian Tales:
Fortune’s Son #1 – So sad and so heartbreaking, the heartwarming multiple storylines about Tasmania, her culture and her creatures was so interesting and intriguing; it was another hard to put down story. The well-written characters, the author’s vivid descriptions, and talented storytelling abilities place the reader deep into the weave of a beautiful tapestry of love, sacrifice and the culture and wildlife of Tasmania, with glimpses of AU. Bear is my favorite character next to Tasmania. 5*
The Lost Valley #2 – This story begins in 1929 with most of the family involved from Fortune’s Son. This book is so sad and so heartbreaking, as well as so heartwarming, intriguing, interesting and uplifting. The vivid descriptions woven with the old and new storylines make a substantial tapestry of love and sacrifice amongst the history of Tasmania, her people and her creatures and her culture. The 600 plus pages just flew by and I could not put this book down until I read the last page. I chain read all the books I had by this author and never once was bored or tired of reading about AU and Tasmania. the excitement over finding such a talented and creative storyteller/author never stopped. Rereading these books in the future, which is something I seldom do anymore, is a certain possibility. 5*
The Tasmanian Tales end.
Read
October 8, 2024In the small Queensland town of Kiawa, against the backdrop of expansive sugar cane fields and ocean vistas, complete with all forms of aquatic life, this captivating story blazed across the pages trying to keep up with the fast-paced unfolding drama. Add to this magnificent scene an undercurrent of subterfuge, manipulation, and attempted murder, and you have a winning plot that draws you in immediately and holds you until the very end. I enjoyed getting to know the characters in this story and the amazing sea life they interacted with at the Reef Centre in Kiawa. However, Zoe King, the bold, hot shot zoologist fresh from Sydney, and Quinn Cooper, the stubborn, old school sugar cane grower with a very impressive standing in the small town of Kiawa, stole the show with their strong attraction and conflicting opinions on just about everything from how to raise his brother to growing and managing his sugar cane in an eco-friendlier way. Ultimately, Zoe's keen mind and common-sense approach brought relief to the chaos. Don't miss this exciting and addictive read.Good Read!!!!!
January 20, 2019
Now I need to get this whole series. I’m hooked!
Turtle Reef has it all, suspense, romance, animals… all the things I love in a quiet afternoon read! This is the 4th book in a series, I didn’t realize that when I got the book. I have never read anything from this author before it now I want this whole series! Turtle Reef could very easily be a stand alone book. I really booted the storyline, and characters. The author takes the time to build the story without drawing it out. It’s the perfect length to start and finish in a lazy afternoon of reading when you’re stuck inside during a snow storm. Left me dreaming of the beaches in Australia. This story really shows how quickly life can change in the blink of an eye, or in this case the course of a phone call. Zoe must make decisions about her life, the reef she loves and the man she loves.
Turtle Reef has it all, suspense, romance, animals… all the things I love in a quiet afternoon read! This is the 4th book in a series, I didn’t realize that when I got the book. I have never read anything from this author before it now I want this whole series! Turtle Reef could very easily be a stand alone book. I really booted the storyline, and characters. The author takes the time to build the story without drawing it out. It’s the perfect length to start and finish in a lazy afternoon of reading when you’re stuck inside during a snow storm. Left me dreaming of the beaches in Australia. This story really shows how quickly life can change in the blink of an eye, or in this case the course of a phone call. Zoe must make decisions about her life, the reef she loves and the man she loves.
January 29, 2021
First of all this author is amazing the way she writes. She gives great insight into the characters, keeps the story line interesting, and then WHAM!! the big ending which also happens to tie up all the loose ends in a neat bundle. Couldn't ask for anything more.
This book's main character is Zoe King, who is tired of Sydney and has moved to the sugar cane area of Kiawa in Queensland for her new position in marine science near the Great Barrier Reef. Zoe takes up residence in the guest house at Swallowdale which is a sugar cane farm belonging to Quinn Cooper.
Zoe is falling for Quinn, but the problem is he is the fiance of her boss and friend Bridget. As the story evolves, Zoe finds local problems are impacting on the reefs in the area, and leaves her in between saving the reef and pushing Quinn away.
A must-read book if you like a romance with a fabulous story behind it!
This book's main character is Zoe King, who is tired of Sydney and has moved to the sugar cane area of Kiawa in Queensland for her new position in marine science near the Great Barrier Reef. Zoe takes up residence in the guest house at Swallowdale which is a sugar cane farm belonging to Quinn Cooper.
Zoe is falling for Quinn, but the problem is he is the fiance of her boss and friend Bridget. As the story evolves, Zoe finds local problems are impacting on the reefs in the area, and leaves her in between saving the reef and pushing Quinn away.
A must-read book if you like a romance with a fabulous story behind it!
April 21, 2025
I loved this book. With a degree, Zoe moved to a small town to work at a clinic that rescued hurt sea animals. They put on shows with the dolphins and educated the community on sea animals. I found all the information about baby octopus 🐙 and turtles 🐢 very interesting. I liked that Zoe thought Bridget was perfect. It was a lesson on looking at the inside before judging someone. I loved the relationship Zoe had with Josh. She helped him grow. I loved the ending. It was an enjoyable read.
August 3, 2019
Exciting
Turtle Reef was exciting to read. The story has an underlying story about the world of the coral reefs and the conservation needed to save the marine life. I enjoyed the main story line and had a hard time putting it down. I haven't read any of the other books in the series but will now look for these books.
Turtle Reef was exciting to read. The story has an underlying story about the world of the coral reefs and the conservation needed to save the marine life. I enjoyed the main story line and had a hard time putting it down. I haven't read any of the other books in the series but will now look for these books.
December 30, 2018
Engrossing
The conflict of has interests verses preserving the ecosystem was presented in a compelling manner with enough mastery to hold interest. Presentation of a special needs yet talented youth well done. Romance and weight loss are icing on a rich cake
The conflict of has interests verses preserving the ecosystem was presented in a compelling manner with enough mastery to hold interest. Presentation of a special needs yet talented youth well done. Romance and weight loss are icing on a rich cake
January 7, 2019
Enjoyable storyline, good drama and characters
Loved the ecology of the Great Barrier Reef and the economics of sugar cane production. The author has done a wonderful job of bringing an ecology lesson with a top rate mystery. I really am enjoying her books.
Loved the ecology of the Great Barrier Reef and the economics of sugar cane production. The author has done a wonderful job of bringing an ecology lesson with a top rate mystery. I really am enjoying her books.
February 3, 2019
Great Barrier Reef
Loved this. The story back drop amazing! The Great Barrier Reef and it’s living glory. Unlikely heroes and heroines. Romance, adventure and suspense all rolled in to one.
Loved this. The story back drop amazing! The Great Barrier Reef and it’s living glory. Unlikely heroes and heroines. Romance, adventure and suspense all rolled in to one.
Displaying 1 - 29 of 52 reviews