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Barrington Series #10
One Good Man
By the author of
The Barrington Book Club - 2025 RuBY Finalist.
Samantha slips into town under cover of darkness, seeking safety. When Jamie finds her, feelings he thought long-dead, resurface. Samantha arrives in town with her small daughter, the clothes on their backs and a scrap of paper with a Barrington address.
Jamie finds them by the side of the road that first night. When he discovers she’s looking for Nicole Stewart, he realises she’s fleeing a bad situation.
They’ll be safe with Nicole, he knows that. But her pale, frightened face haunts him and feelings he thought long-dead, resurface.
Meanwhile, the book club girl-posse are organising a festival, the first of its kind in Barrington. Rose is leading the committee and although excited, is worried it will be a disaster. And she’s not sure about Samantha’s budding friendship with Jamie.
Samantha needs help to unravel the web of lies she’s been living. She’s not looking for a hand-out, but will she accept a hand-up?
Can this small-town community help Samantha and Jamie turn their lives around and pull off the festival of the year?
Samantha slips into town under cover of darkness, seeking safety. When Jamie finds her, feelings he thought long-dead, resurface. Samantha arrives in town with her small daughter, the clothes on their backs and a scrap of paper with a Barrington address.
Jamie finds them by the side of the road that first night. When he discovers she’s looking for Nicole Stewart, he realises she’s fleeing a bad situation.
They’ll be safe with Nicole, he knows that. But her pale, frightened face haunts him and feelings he thought long-dead, resurface.
Meanwhile, the book club girl-posse are organising a festival, the first of its kind in Barrington. Rose is leading the committee and although excited, is worried it will be a disaster. And she’s not sure about Samantha’s budding friendship with Jamie.
Samantha needs help to unravel the web of lies she’s been living. She’s not looking for a hand-out, but will she accept a hand-up?
Can this small-town community help Samantha and Jamie turn their lives around and pull off the festival of the year?
- GenresRomance
370 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 28, 2025
5 people are currently reading
31 people want to read
About the author
Susan Mackie
19 books113 followersWinner of the 2025 RUBY Award for Women's Fiction with Romantic Elements (Romance Writers of Australia) for The Barrington Book Club.
"Uniquely Australian, yet told in a companionable style, reminiscent of Maeve Binchy." Julie, Goodreads & Amazon.
Romance books you'll fall in love with.
Susan Mackie writes heart-warming, character-driven romance and women's fiction. Small town stories with all the feels and a community you'll want to move to.
Every person and every place has a story to tell.
Do you drive by old homes and wonder about the lives of those that built them, lived there, loved and lost?
Writers tell such stories. Sometimes real, sometimes imagined. Often both.
"Uniquely Australian, yet told in a companionable style, reminiscent of Maeve Binchy." Julie, Goodreads & Amazon.
Romance books you'll fall in love with.
Susan Mackie writes heart-warming, character-driven romance and women's fiction. Small town stories with all the feels and a community you'll want to move to.
Every person and every place has a story to tell.
Do you drive by old homes and wonder about the lives of those that built them, lived there, loved and lost?
Writers tell such stories. Sometimes real, sometimes imagined. Often both.
Ratings & Reviews
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews
July 9, 2025
When Samantha and little Evie finally escaped the brute that had abused and used her, imprisoning her and cutting all her ties, she was still frightened he would find them. Samantha had a scrap of paper with a name and address on it, which was how she found herself at Barrington. When Jamie spied them in the cold dark night, walking along the edge of the road, he was Sam's first contact. And when Nicole drove down to where Jamie was to pick Sam & Evie up, she met another person who would become a friend.
It took some time for the terror to fade from Sam's eyes, and she felt safe in Nicole's refuge. But gradually she got to know other people, especially the women, and soon her natural independence and courage showed through. But would the volatile and abusive ex still find her? Would she ever be able to shake the fear and move forward with her life? And keep her beloved Evie safe?
One Good Man is the 10th in the Barrington series by Aussie author Susan Mackie and it is an exceptional read! Back to Barrington, catching up with old friends, and making new ones - the Barrington series makes my heart feel warm. From bad things, good things come :) Highly recommended.
With thanks to the author for my digital ARC to read and review.
It took some time for the terror to fade from Sam's eyes, and she felt safe in Nicole's refuge. But gradually she got to know other people, especially the women, and soon her natural independence and courage showed through. But would the volatile and abusive ex still find her? Would she ever be able to shake the fear and move forward with her life? And keep her beloved Evie safe?
One Good Man is the 10th in the Barrington series by Aussie author Susan Mackie and it is an exceptional read! Back to Barrington, catching up with old friends, and making new ones - the Barrington series makes my heart feel warm. From bad things, good things come :) Highly recommended.
With thanks to the author for my digital ARC to read and review.
July 11, 2025
I have said it before and I will say it again, picking up a Barrington Series book is like walking back to a family reunion lots of hugs and smiles with caring loving people and this one is no exception, if you haven’t read this series then you are missing out, I love it.
When a young woman, Samantha and her and young daughter, Evie arrive by train into Barrington they have a couple of plastic bags and a piece of paper with an address on it Samantha is hoping that this will be her chance at starting a new life but first she must find this address and starts walking it is cold and dark but Samantha is determined to find her way there.
Jamie and his young son Warwick are driving home when he spots a woman and child walking on the side of the road he pulls over to help, she appears scared and timid but she shows him a piece of paper with Nicole’s address on it and he knows that she needs help he also realizes that it would be better to phone Nicole and get her here rather than offering her a lift. The look on her face will stay with him forever and Jamie is determined to make sure he can help them wherever he can.
Within weeks Sam and Evie are growing stronger and Sam is opening up to Nicole about her past she is also making friends and with Jamie as well her courage is growing and her hope that this is a new safe start gets stronger, is there a chance that Barrington could be the place they will call home and could she find happiness with Jamie, maybe with time, she has been through so much.
With the help of solicitor Douglas Sam is soon finding out things that make a big difference in her life and the future is looking good, and the lovely ladies from the book club are helping where they can and they are all putting everything into organizing the first book festival in Barrington, Barrington the place to heal never a truer word said.
This book has everything in it, so many emotions truly I cried so hard, I cheered and I smiled so much, it is a beautifully told story about a woman and the courage she shows to make a new life and what one good man can do to help make that happen. I loved this one so much and adored being back in Barrington, I do highly recommend this one and the series, a must read.
My thanks to the author for my ARC to read and review.
When a young woman, Samantha and her and young daughter, Evie arrive by train into Barrington they have a couple of plastic bags and a piece of paper with an address on it Samantha is hoping that this will be her chance at starting a new life but first she must find this address and starts walking it is cold and dark but Samantha is determined to find her way there.
Jamie and his young son Warwick are driving home when he spots a woman and child walking on the side of the road he pulls over to help, she appears scared and timid but she shows him a piece of paper with Nicole’s address on it and he knows that she needs help he also realizes that it would be better to phone Nicole and get her here rather than offering her a lift. The look on her face will stay with him forever and Jamie is determined to make sure he can help them wherever he can.
Within weeks Sam and Evie are growing stronger and Sam is opening up to Nicole about her past she is also making friends and with Jamie as well her courage is growing and her hope that this is a new safe start gets stronger, is there a chance that Barrington could be the place they will call home and could she find happiness with Jamie, maybe with time, she has been through so much.
With the help of solicitor Douglas Sam is soon finding out things that make a big difference in her life and the future is looking good, and the lovely ladies from the book club are helping where they can and they are all putting everything into organizing the first book festival in Barrington, Barrington the place to heal never a truer word said.
This book has everything in it, so many emotions truly I cried so hard, I cheered and I smiled so much, it is a beautifully told story about a woman and the courage she shows to make a new life and what one good man can do to help make that happen. I loved this one so much and adored being back in Barrington, I do highly recommend this one and the series, a must read.
My thanks to the author for my ARC to read and review.
July 14, 2025
It all began on a quiet roadside in Barrington, a small town where community runs deep and secrets often linger just beneath the surface. When Jamie found Samantha—frightened, alone, and clearly running from something—he had no idea the storm she was escaping from. A troubled marriage, an abusive past, and a dangerous cult were only the beginning. And it wasn’t just Samantha—her young daughter was in this fight for freedom too.
From that point on, I was glued to the pages, eager to see how justice would unfold as Samantha’s story unraveled and her secrets spilled out. Each revelation felt like a widening gap between the life she had and the peace she so deeply deserved.
What makes "One Good Man" more than just a gripping tale is Susan Mackie’s unmistakable warmth, with the beloved book club, where town gossip simmers gently alongside strong friendships and a shared love for stories. It’s the kind of cozy setting that makes you want to curl up and stay awhile—even as the drama unfolds.
Susan Mackie has done it again. Her books keep getting better—rich with emotional depth, filled with tension and warmth, and always rooted in the hope that even broken lives can be made whole again. One Good Man is more than a 5-star read—it’s a heartfelt journey I won’t forget.
From that point on, I was glued to the pages, eager to see how justice would unfold as Samantha’s story unraveled and her secrets spilled out. Each revelation felt like a widening gap between the life she had and the peace she so deeply deserved.
What makes "One Good Man" more than just a gripping tale is Susan Mackie’s unmistakable warmth, with the beloved book club, where town gossip simmers gently alongside strong friendships and a shared love for stories. It’s the kind of cozy setting that makes you want to curl up and stay awhile—even as the drama unfolds.
Susan Mackie has done it again. Her books keep getting better—rich with emotional depth, filled with tension and warmth, and always rooted in the hope that even broken lives can be made whole again. One Good Man is more than a 5-star read—it’s a heartfelt journey I won’t forget.
July 27, 2025
I always love being back in Barrington and back with all my favourite familiar characters 💓 This time, I am taken by two new characters. Samantha (Sam) and her daughter Evie.
Sam and her daughter Evie arrive in Barrington with just the clothes on their back and a scrap of paper with a Barrington address. The address of Nicole Reid Stewart, a local who helps women in need. They are escaping a bad situation.
Jamie Tait, another local, finds Sam and Evie the cold, dark night they arrive walking on the side of the road. He gains her trust with the help of his young son Woz and stays with them until Nicole can come and collect them and take them to a safe place.
From here, we slowly see the way the community once again support a newcomer to Barrington with the respect of patience and time as Sam and Evie learn to trust people again and return to a normal life.
Sam's fear that her ex will find her and take Evie away remains at large though, until Douglas Barlow, retired solicitor, comes through with some information that may just help Sam!
I love the way this situation was handled with such care in this book, the way the community embraces newcomers and supports them and the way among such a bad situation, a love ignited slowly in the background ❤️
I also love the mention of Rose and Stella Quinn in a debate at a conference! 😍 This was an actual thing.. except it was Susan (not Rose 😉)
Overall, another fabulous instalment in the Barrington Series! I loved it and, as always, look forward to the next book in the series!
Sam and her daughter Evie arrive in Barrington with just the clothes on their back and a scrap of paper with a Barrington address. The address of Nicole Reid Stewart, a local who helps women in need. They are escaping a bad situation.
Jamie Tait, another local, finds Sam and Evie the cold, dark night they arrive walking on the side of the road. He gains her trust with the help of his young son Woz and stays with them until Nicole can come and collect them and take them to a safe place.
From here, we slowly see the way the community once again support a newcomer to Barrington with the respect of patience and time as Sam and Evie learn to trust people again and return to a normal life.
Sam's fear that her ex will find her and take Evie away remains at large though, until Douglas Barlow, retired solicitor, comes through with some information that may just help Sam!
I love the way this situation was handled with such care in this book, the way the community embraces newcomers and supports them and the way among such a bad situation, a love ignited slowly in the background ❤️
I also love the mention of Rose and Stella Quinn in a debate at a conference! 😍 This was an actual thing.. except it was Susan (not Rose 😉)
Overall, another fabulous instalment in the Barrington Series! I loved it and, as always, look forward to the next book in the series!
June 25, 2025
Some stories don’t just stay with you—they settle into your heart, leaving you changed. One Good Man is exactly that kind of book.
From the opening pages, I was completely swept up in Samantha and Jamie’s story. There’s a quiet, aching beauty to the way this one unfolds—a depth of emotion that took my breath away. I could feel the weight of every decision, every fear, every flicker of hope. It’s not often a book hits me quite like this, but Susan Mackie has crafted something extraordinary here.
Returning to Barrington felt less like reading and more like being gently folded back into a world I never want to leave. But this book doesn’t rely on nostalgia—it stands on its own as a rich, layered, and utterly compelling read. The writing is powerful but graceful, with moments so tender and raw they stopped me in my tracks.
Samantha, arriving with so little and holding so much inside her, is a character I won’t forget. Jamie, kind and solid and quietly wounded, is the kind of man we all hope exists. Their connection builds slowly, honestly—and it’s this emotional honesty that gives the book such resonance.
And then there’s the festival, the reading list (which includes some of my absolute favourites!), and the beloved book club posse—adding warmth and vibrancy without ever stealing the spotlight. They’re the heart of the community, and they lift the entire story into something full of light.
One Good Man is more than just a continuation of a beloved series—it’s a standout in every sense. Richly emotional, beautifully told, and unforgettable.
Susan Mackie has outdone herself. This is her finest work yet.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (and I wish I could give more)
From the opening pages, I was completely swept up in Samantha and Jamie’s story. There’s a quiet, aching beauty to the way this one unfolds—a depth of emotion that took my breath away. I could feel the weight of every decision, every fear, every flicker of hope. It’s not often a book hits me quite like this, but Susan Mackie has crafted something extraordinary here.
Returning to Barrington felt less like reading and more like being gently folded back into a world I never want to leave. But this book doesn’t rely on nostalgia—it stands on its own as a rich, layered, and utterly compelling read. The writing is powerful but graceful, with moments so tender and raw they stopped me in my tracks.
Samantha, arriving with so little and holding so much inside her, is a character I won’t forget. Jamie, kind and solid and quietly wounded, is the kind of man we all hope exists. Their connection builds slowly, honestly—and it’s this emotional honesty that gives the book such resonance.
And then there’s the festival, the reading list (which includes some of my absolute favourites!), and the beloved book club posse—adding warmth and vibrancy without ever stealing the spotlight. They’re the heart of the community, and they lift the entire story into something full of light.
One Good Man is more than just a continuation of a beloved series—it’s a standout in every sense. Richly emotional, beautifully told, and unforgettable.
Susan Mackie has outdone herself. This is her finest work yet.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (and I wish I could give more)
July 28, 2025
Big thanks to Susan for gifting us a copy to read and review.
I am a huge fan of the Barrington books and have been to the town every time a delicious story is released.
Charlie’s Will really set the scene and did become my firm favourite and a number of great stories later I can safely say this one is a firm second favourite.
An intense opening scene invites the reader into the fear and uncertainty Samantha faces with her young child.
A scrap of paper containing the details of a lifeline.
Jamie spots the duo on the side of the road in the dark.
Sensing the situation and determining it’s Nicole Stewart she is trying to reach he acts immediately with sensitivity and understanding.
Slowly the community shows Samantha that she has landed in a safe spot with an abundance of support.
Jamie and his young son anchor themselves in her life.
Meanwhile the towns book store and Bookclub actively meet and discuss some fabulous books from top authors.
A readers festival is ambitious and rewarding project they are excited about.
Acceptance, tension and community all emerge as new relationships are defined and the past is confronted.
Loved the darker side of humanity and how it was illuminated by the kindness and care.
Reminisced when a great debate was mentioned and loved the promotion of real and very talented authors.
I am a huge fan of the Barrington books and have been to the town every time a delicious story is released.
Charlie’s Will really set the scene and did become my firm favourite and a number of great stories later I can safely say this one is a firm second favourite.
An intense opening scene invites the reader into the fear and uncertainty Samantha faces with her young child.
A scrap of paper containing the details of a lifeline.
Jamie spots the duo on the side of the road in the dark.
Sensing the situation and determining it’s Nicole Stewart she is trying to reach he acts immediately with sensitivity and understanding.
Slowly the community shows Samantha that she has landed in a safe spot with an abundance of support.
Jamie and his young son anchor themselves in her life.
Meanwhile the towns book store and Bookclub actively meet and discuss some fabulous books from top authors.
A readers festival is ambitious and rewarding project they are excited about.
Acceptance, tension and community all emerge as new relationships are defined and the past is confronted.
Loved the darker side of humanity and how it was illuminated by the kindness and care.
Reminisced when a great debate was mentioned and loved the promotion of real and very talented authors.
August 10, 2025
Thoroughly enjoyed the whole series, credible characters with complicated stories which I think most of us can relate to, loved the setting being near where I live and by the end I felt like I was part of the community….
July 19, 2025
'One Good Man' is absolutely one good book!
I now have a new favourite book of Susan Mackie's! 'One Good Man' is a story of trauma, abuse, domestic violence, yet it is also a story of courage, love and hope.
When Samantha and her daughter Evie hop off the train in an unknown town and walk, at night, to an unknown location, they meet Jamie and his son, Warwick. Samantha finds refuge in Nicole, who helps women to rebuild and find a safe place when they need it most. Samantha finds refuge in much more than Nicole's home. Barrington, as we know from Susan's previous novels, is a town filled with welcoming and kind people who create a small town community unlike any other. Samantha meets new people who build her up and guide her in life changing ways. Samantha also has a huge impact on those around her.
Samantha's situation is disturbing and it has opened my eyes to cult communities that are in everyday society, often hidden from everyday people. Susan writes about this topic along with domestic violence with such sensitivity.
The tender connection between Jamie and Samantha is unlike any other in the town. I could feel the warmth through the pages, radiating like a woodburner on a winter's day - a comforting presence throughout the entire narrative.
I looked forward to the book club catch ups and loved that they were short, but enjoyable with a fantastic event to plan.
What a romance! Jamie and Samantha are perfect and so is this book. If you're looking for a holiday read, this is it!! I am invested in these characters' lives and can't wait for the next installment of the series.
I would love to know about the other women Samantha left behind and wonder if this could be a stand alone book in itself! Who knows?! I do know that each and every time Susan writes a book that it is a treat to be able to read it. Congratulations Susan!! And thank you 😊
PS If I could move to the area where these books are set, I would in a heartbeat. If you've never been to Barrington or Gloucester, you must. The rolling hills and stunning nature... it is breathtaking.
#romancereader #onegoodman #Barrington #gloucester
#love #romanceanz #romantic #ilovereading #bookreviews
I now have a new favourite book of Susan Mackie's! 'One Good Man' is a story of trauma, abuse, domestic violence, yet it is also a story of courage, love and hope.
When Samantha and her daughter Evie hop off the train in an unknown town and walk, at night, to an unknown location, they meet Jamie and his son, Warwick. Samantha finds refuge in Nicole, who helps women to rebuild and find a safe place when they need it most. Samantha finds refuge in much more than Nicole's home. Barrington, as we know from Susan's previous novels, is a town filled with welcoming and kind people who create a small town community unlike any other. Samantha meets new people who build her up and guide her in life changing ways. Samantha also has a huge impact on those around her.
Samantha's situation is disturbing and it has opened my eyes to cult communities that are in everyday society, often hidden from everyday people. Susan writes about this topic along with domestic violence with such sensitivity.
The tender connection between Jamie and Samantha is unlike any other in the town. I could feel the warmth through the pages, radiating like a woodburner on a winter's day - a comforting presence throughout the entire narrative.
I looked forward to the book club catch ups and loved that they were short, but enjoyable with a fantastic event to plan.
What a romance! Jamie and Samantha are perfect and so is this book. If you're looking for a holiday read, this is it!! I am invested in these characters' lives and can't wait for the next installment of the series.
I would love to know about the other women Samantha left behind and wonder if this could be a stand alone book in itself! Who knows?! I do know that each and every time Susan writes a book that it is a treat to be able to read it. Congratulations Susan!! And thank you 😊
PS If I could move to the area where these books are set, I would in a heartbeat. If you've never been to Barrington or Gloucester, you must. The rolling hills and stunning nature... it is breathtaking.
#romancereader #onegoodman #Barrington #gloucester
#love #romanceanz #romantic #ilovereading #bookreviews
July 28, 2025
Wow, wow, and wow — One Good Man (Barrington Series) is another absolute standout!
Reading this story felt like watching a beautifully crafted miniseries — I could see every character, every street, every shop in vivid detail. Barrington truly comes alive on the page, and returning to this beloved town feels like coming home.
All our favourite characters are back, the bookshop is thriving, and the book club is still the beating heart of the community. This time, we’re introduced to two new faces: Sam, who is bravely escaping a life of domestic violence, and her sweet daughter Evie — as cute and bright as a button.
Watching the community embrace Sam and Evie was heartwarming. Within weeks, they begin to settle in, and we see Sam slowly opening up to Nicole about her past. As friendships blossom and the town prepares for its festival, the familiar book club girls are there with open arms, proving once again why they’re the soul of this series.
Then there’s Jamie — steady, kind, and quietly grieving. His connection with Sam builds with tenderness and patience. Sam, filled with fear but driven by courage, is determined to stop running and create a real home for herself and Evie. Their relationship grows not in grand gestures, but in quiet moments of trust, understanding, and healing.
This is a powerful story — yes, it explores trauma, abuse, and the long road back from fear. But it’s also a story of strength, love, resilience, and the unwavering hope for a better life.
One Good Man is more than just a continuation of a wonderful series — it’s exceptional in every way: beautifully written, deeply emotional, and absolutely unforgettable. If I could give it ten stars, I would.
Susan, you’ve outdone yourself — this is my favourite in the series by far.
Reading this story felt like watching a beautifully crafted miniseries — I could see every character, every street, every shop in vivid detail. Barrington truly comes alive on the page, and returning to this beloved town feels like coming home.
All our favourite characters are back, the bookshop is thriving, and the book club is still the beating heart of the community. This time, we’re introduced to two new faces: Sam, who is bravely escaping a life of domestic violence, and her sweet daughter Evie — as cute and bright as a button.
Watching the community embrace Sam and Evie was heartwarming. Within weeks, they begin to settle in, and we see Sam slowly opening up to Nicole about her past. As friendships blossom and the town prepares for its festival, the familiar book club girls are there with open arms, proving once again why they’re the soul of this series.
Then there’s Jamie — steady, kind, and quietly grieving. His connection with Sam builds with tenderness and patience. Sam, filled with fear but driven by courage, is determined to stop running and create a real home for herself and Evie. Their relationship grows not in grand gestures, but in quiet moments of trust, understanding, and healing.
This is a powerful story — yes, it explores trauma, abuse, and the long road back from fear. But it’s also a story of strength, love, resilience, and the unwavering hope for a better life.
One Good Man is more than just a continuation of a wonderful series — it’s exceptional in every way: beautifully written, deeply emotional, and absolutely unforgettable. If I could give it ten stars, I would.
Susan, you’ve outdone yourself — this is my favourite in the series by far.
September 24, 2025
Another great book about small country towns and big possibilities. In this book the girls are organising a book festival. New comer to Samantha has to learn to trust people and that not all men are bad. Hence the title, One Good Man.
I really enjoyed this book, loved going back to visit everyone we've already met. As it had been a while I did a quick refresher of where (which book) we had met other main characters and how they fit in. Especially Jamie and his family. It was nice to catch up with them.
I really enjoyed this book, loved going back to visit everyone we've already met. As it had been a while I did a quick refresher of where (which book) we had met other main characters and how they fit in. Especially Jamie and his family. It was nice to catch up with them.
August 10, 2025
There’s a sense of ‘coming home’ when you read Susan Mackie’s books, and One Good Man delivered that in spades.
We follow Samantha’s escape from a dreadful past and watch, mesmerized as Mackie takes us through Sam’s agonizing recovery and warm acceptance into the community of Barrington.
All eyes are on Jamie, though, as his interest in Sam begins when he rescues her and follows her progress with more than keen interest. Some want more for him after his own devastating loss, yet others are wary of his starting over again with a newcomer to their close-knit community.
Emotions run deep in this 10th book in the Barrington series, and I highly recommend it.
We follow Samantha’s escape from a dreadful past and watch, mesmerized as Mackie takes us through Sam’s agonizing recovery and warm acceptance into the community of Barrington.
All eyes are on Jamie, though, as his interest in Sam begins when he rescues her and follows her progress with more than keen interest. Some want more for him after his own devastating loss, yet others are wary of his starting over again with a newcomer to their close-knit community.
Emotions run deep in this 10th book in the Barrington series, and I highly recommend it.
July 9, 2025
Welcome back to Barrington! From page one, I was back feeling the love and friendships of everyone within this small town romance.
Susan has written another amazing book in this series, I love the fact that I often find myself smiling when I read her books.
This book in the series was just as good as the others. I really look forward to reading, what may lay ahead in the future for everyone.
Susan has written another amazing book in this series, I love the fact that I often find myself smiling when I read her books.
This book in the series was just as good as the others. I really look forward to reading, what may lay ahead in the future for everyone.
August 24, 2025
Susan, you've done it again! Written yet another story that has woven itself into my heart and left me wanting more! 10/10! Well done!
August 17, 2025
This is a warm and touching story about hope, love, and starting over.
Samantha arrives in Barrington with her daughter, looking for safety. Jamie’s kindness helps her feel trust again, and the friendly town brings comfort and support.
A lovely read about second chances and the power of caring people.
Samantha arrives in Barrington with her daughter, looking for safety. Jamie’s kindness helps her feel trust again, and the friendly town brings comfort and support.
A lovely read about second chances and the power of caring people.
June 28, 2025
We are back in the small town of Barrington, a town of friends and family who have each other's backs and support in all situations, good and bad.
This story is about Samantha and her daughter Evie, both running away from a terrible, controlling, abusive relationship within a cult environment. They arrived in Barrington for safety.
This book is about healing and feeling safe and that there are good people out in the world, especially a good man who knows how to treat you right.
There is drama, an occasional book club meeting, a festival being organised. A town full of love and support.
Loved it 📚🥰
This story is about Samantha and her daughter Evie, both running away from a terrible, controlling, abusive relationship within a cult environment. They arrived in Barrington for safety.
This book is about healing and feeling safe and that there are good people out in the world, especially a good man who knows how to treat you right.
There is drama, an occasional book club meeting, a festival being organised. A town full of love and support.
Loved it 📚🥰
January 24, 2026
⭐️5 Stars⭐️
I always get excited when there’s a new book in the Barrington series. Wow just wow this book!!! 💞Absolutely loved One Good Man by Susan Mackie and I highly recommend to everyone!
The town of Barrington and its characters feel like coming home. This story brought me all the feels and normally it’s rare for a book to make me feel this emotional but I felt so fully invested in these characters.
The plot of the story is really intriguing as we follow Sam and her young daughter Evie as they escape an evil human being and dangerous cult where Sam was abused and imprisoned.
When Sam and Evie arrive in Barrington by train and holding an address on a slip of paper, the community of Barrington come to their aid and it’s just beautifully orchestrated. Jamie is such an adorable man and I loved the relationship he forms with Sam. The book club girls are also organising a book festival (hey yes please!), will they be able to pull it off?
You don’t have to read the series to thoroughly enjoy this book, it’s an absolute joy! I think the best yet! Start your Barrington journey today, I highly recommend.
Publishing Date 28 July 2025
Publisher Indie Author - Available on Amazon or https://susanmackie.com
A huge thanks to the author @susanmackieauthor for a copy of this gorgeous book.
I always get excited when there’s a new book in the Barrington series. Wow just wow this book!!! 💞Absolutely loved One Good Man by Susan Mackie and I highly recommend to everyone!
The town of Barrington and its characters feel like coming home. This story brought me all the feels and normally it’s rare for a book to make me feel this emotional but I felt so fully invested in these characters.
The plot of the story is really intriguing as we follow Sam and her young daughter Evie as they escape an evil human being and dangerous cult where Sam was abused and imprisoned.
When Sam and Evie arrive in Barrington by train and holding an address on a slip of paper, the community of Barrington come to their aid and it’s just beautifully orchestrated. Jamie is such an adorable man and I loved the relationship he forms with Sam. The book club girls are also organising a book festival (hey yes please!), will they be able to pull it off?
You don’t have to read the series to thoroughly enjoy this book, it’s an absolute joy! I think the best yet! Start your Barrington journey today, I highly recommend.
Publishing Date 28 July 2025
Publisher Indie Author - Available on Amazon or https://susanmackie.com
A huge thanks to the author @susanmackieauthor for a copy of this gorgeous book.
December 23, 2025
The tenth book in the series and this book brought so much joy. After the heartache of some of the previous books this one was needed, especially the love and joy it contained.
June 30, 2025
When Samantha escapes with her young daughter from a brutal coercive relationship, her only contact is Nicole Stewart. Wounded and troubled, Samantha slips into Barrington under cover of darkness. She is lost and alone when Jamie Tait finds them by the side of the road, and he immediately realizes that Samantha is in trouble and seeking help if her only contact is Nicole who has helped women and children before. Not being fully aware of their situation, Jamie knows that they will be safe with Nicole and contacts her to collect Samantha and her daughter.
The Barrington book club girl-posse are organizing the very first book festival to be held in Barrington. The organization is lead by Rose Gordon, herself an Author, and it is all hands on deck for all the girls. Though they are all excited they are also worried it may end in disaster. They have six months to prepare for the festival and with her posse gathered around her, Rose fights and wins battles and as time goes on, it seems they may well be looking forward to a very successful festival. Authors are on board and the preliminary television adds prove to be adding to their plans of highlighting the festival and Barrington.
But Rose is also concerned with Samantha’s budding friendship with her childhood friend Jamie who is also a wounded soul. With gentleness and understanding on Jamie’s part and determination and a desire to overcome her fears, Samantha dearly wants to be able to stop running and living a lie so she can make a home for herself and her daughter in Barrington.
Will the Book Festival in Barrington be the success they wish for? Will there be a future for Jamie and Samantha?
One Good Man, book number 10 in the Barrington Series, is a story that captured my heart from the very beginning. All the characters from previous books are there, a community of people in the town of Barrington who are warm, loving and accepting. When a young woman seeking help arrives in town, they close ranks and protect her from her abusive partner. All too often the spectre of abuse raises its head and Samantha’s situation is treated with the empathy, care and love we have come to expect from Author Susan Mackie. Thank you for this story Susan, it is one that needs to be given light so we can assure that such abuse doesn’t continue.
I love this story and highly recommend One Good Man and all of Susan’s books in the Barrington Series. Though all are stand-alones, I would recommend starting at the beginning with Charlie’s Will and following through to meet all the beautiful people of Barrington. You will be glad that you did.
The Barrington book club girl-posse are organizing the very first book festival to be held in Barrington. The organization is lead by Rose Gordon, herself an Author, and it is all hands on deck for all the girls. Though they are all excited they are also worried it may end in disaster. They have six months to prepare for the festival and with her posse gathered around her, Rose fights and wins battles and as time goes on, it seems they may well be looking forward to a very successful festival. Authors are on board and the preliminary television adds prove to be adding to their plans of highlighting the festival and Barrington.
But Rose is also concerned with Samantha’s budding friendship with her childhood friend Jamie who is also a wounded soul. With gentleness and understanding on Jamie’s part and determination and a desire to overcome her fears, Samantha dearly wants to be able to stop running and living a lie so she can make a home for herself and her daughter in Barrington.
Will the Book Festival in Barrington be the success they wish for? Will there be a future for Jamie and Samantha?
One Good Man, book number 10 in the Barrington Series, is a story that captured my heart from the very beginning. All the characters from previous books are there, a community of people in the town of Barrington who are warm, loving and accepting. When a young woman seeking help arrives in town, they close ranks and protect her from her abusive partner. All too often the spectre of abuse raises its head and Samantha’s situation is treated with the empathy, care and love we have come to expect from Author Susan Mackie. Thank you for this story Susan, it is one that needs to be given light so we can assure that such abuse doesn’t continue.
I love this story and highly recommend One Good Man and all of Susan’s books in the Barrington Series. Though all are stand-alones, I would recommend starting at the beginning with Charlie’s Will and following through to meet all the beautiful people of Barrington. You will be glad that you did.
January 16, 2026
Ah Susan, you've done it again, created characters I love! I admire Nic's work helping women and I like the atmosphere and safe space Barrington offers them. The bookshop venture sounds like its booming and it sounds fun with the author visits!
We meet Samantha and Evie, their story is sad but also enlightening and makes me think of other women in their situation, I'm glad there are places like this for them to go.
I like that the original group is mingling with the newcomers, the children are growing up, getting their own personalities and making friendships which'll last. After the tragedy in the last book, I'm glad, although never forgotten, he can move on or at least start to. Trusting again is huge but with support, they can all work together and begin to build a beautiful relationship.
The series is coming to an end but Barrington and it's inhabitants will stay with me for a while!
We meet Samantha and Evie, their story is sad but also enlightening and makes me think of other women in their situation, I'm glad there are places like this for them to go.
I like that the original group is mingling with the newcomers, the children are growing up, getting their own personalities and making friendships which'll last. After the tragedy in the last book, I'm glad, although never forgotten, he can move on or at least start to. Trusting again is huge but with support, they can all work together and begin to build a beautiful relationship.
The series is coming to an end but Barrington and it's inhabitants will stay with me for a while!
July 28, 2025
This series follows the lives of the residents in the rural town of Barrington. I have loved getting to know the people, learn about their lives, their friendships and relationships. Seeing them come together and support each other in times of happiness and sadness is heart-warming. Learning their ideas for the good of the township, business and tourism and their general love of community keeps me turning the pages. I've thoroughly enjoyed this series. If the town and people were real, I'd want to live there.
July 12, 2025
Absolutely Loved everything about this book!
Hard topics written about so tactfully!
A cast of characters that I feel like I know so well!
I even had a feeling of excitement like I too was attending the Barrington Readers Festival and was excited to catch up with all the Authors attending!!
Beautifully Written well done on another fantastic story!!
Hard topics written about so tactfully!
A cast of characters that I feel like I know so well!
I even had a feeling of excitement like I too was attending the Barrington Readers Festival and was excited to catch up with all the Authors attending!!
Beautifully Written well done on another fantastic story!!
July 31, 2025
Another lovely trip to Barrington.
July 31, 2025
Absolutely loved it! I couldn't put it down and loved the ending. I didn't love what happened to Sam but I'm glad she found Barrington. Also, I think you have almost redeemed yourself, Susan, on what happened in book 8 of this series. I won't give away too much but if anyone hasn't read this series, you really need to do so. Not only will you enjoy these books but learn about other great books through the Barrington book club.
July 29, 2025
I enjoy coming home to Barrington. Every story adds more depth to the lives of the characters who live there. It’s a real story of relationships where everyone is there to help each other. I feel I know all about the setting from the author’s descriptions. Looking forward to the next Barrington story
August 3, 2025
What can I say, this is a very inspiring read, it was so nice to meet all the amazing characters in the book. Coming back to Barrington, the Book club members and so much more. This book is mainly about Samantha and her daughter Evie finding refuge in this town. They find their way to their safe place and Jamie helps them when out driving with his son Woz. It's so much adventure and the storytelling is exactly right, the town and book club members getting prepared for the up-coming book festival event. The major event of the year. Samantha is trying her best to cope with her past and finding peace, healing and a second chance in her scarred life. The people in Barrington really do want to help Samantha and her daughter to find that life is so much different and more than what they had lived. Included instead of excluded and lonely, it is truly a story of courage and One Good Man. The title really does correspond to this wonderful book. I'm so happy to have had the opportunity to read this book and I can definitely recommend this story. I was smiling when I saw the wink to another well-known author in the story too! Can only hope that there will be a next book later on.
Charlotte N
Charlotte N
August 29, 2025
Stars: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Genre: fiction - romance, rural romance
Does the blurb reflect the plot: it’s a great synopsis of what’s to come
Sum it up: I love ‘returning’ to the country town of Barrington. It feels like a long overdue catch up with old friends and an opportunity to make new ones and One Good Man was no exception. It’s Mackie’s tenth book/novella in the Barrington series, and while nothing will ever top Charlie’s Will (the first book of the series), Mackie has absolutely nailed the plot and characters in One Good Man and it’s now my second favourite Barrington book. I appreciated how well she managed to weave three vastly different story lines to form a beautiful story filled with courage, determination and unconditional love. Best of all, it’s written in such a way that if you’re new to Barrington, it’s easy to pick up the book as a stand alone and get acquainted with all the existing characters; whilst contemporaneously adding new details of existing characters and the town itself for those who have been following the series. One Good Man is a highly recommended read from me, just as the rest of the Barrington series is.
Who should read it: fans of the series and romance books generally will adore this one, but anyone that likes a fell good, yet believable romance will also really enjoy it.
To play along with my book bingo and to see what else I’m reading, go to #ktbookbingo or @peggyanne_readsandruns on Instagram.
Genre: fiction - romance, rural romance
Does the blurb reflect the plot: it’s a great synopsis of what’s to come
Sum it up: I love ‘returning’ to the country town of Barrington. It feels like a long overdue catch up with old friends and an opportunity to make new ones and One Good Man was no exception. It’s Mackie’s tenth book/novella in the Barrington series, and while nothing will ever top Charlie’s Will (the first book of the series), Mackie has absolutely nailed the plot and characters in One Good Man and it’s now my second favourite Barrington book. I appreciated how well she managed to weave three vastly different story lines to form a beautiful story filled with courage, determination and unconditional love. Best of all, it’s written in such a way that if you’re new to Barrington, it’s easy to pick up the book as a stand alone and get acquainted with all the existing characters; whilst contemporaneously adding new details of existing characters and the town itself for those who have been following the series. One Good Man is a highly recommended read from me, just as the rest of the Barrington series is.
Who should read it: fans of the series and romance books generally will adore this one, but anyone that likes a fell good, yet believable romance will also really enjoy it.
To play along with my book bingo and to see what else I’m reading, go to #ktbookbingo or @peggyanne_readsandruns on Instagram.
July 13, 2025
S uch a warm hearted book by Susan Mackie. It wraps its arms around you and gently embraces you as you read, whilst touching your heart.
'One good man', could be applied to any of these Barrington Men, old or young!
It really only takes one good man, but a good man is very hard to find, these days.
Yet this one, the one good man Susan writes of, is a man of principle, of sincerity, courage and silently a hero.
He is there for his family, always willing to help his friends and protects those near him and those he loves
He has a gentle soul that reaches and heals the heart of one traumatised woman and her child, eventhough grief has been his constant, his heart has been open to accept love again.
As everyone is preparing for the book festival, the town of Barrington will become busier, yet it opens it's arms wide to not only protect their own but in accepting Sam and Evie. They are the right fit in more ways than one.
'One good man', could be applied to any of these Barrington Men, old or young!
It really only takes one good man, but a good man is very hard to find, these days.
Yet this one, the one good man Susan writes of, is a man of principle, of sincerity, courage and silently a hero.
He is there for his family, always willing to help his friends and protects those near him and those he loves
He has a gentle soul that reaches and heals the heart of one traumatised woman and her child, eventhough grief has been his constant, his heart has been open to accept love again.
As everyone is preparing for the book festival, the town of Barrington will become busier, yet it opens it's arms wide to not only protect their own but in accepting Sam and Evie. They are the right fit in more ways than one.
June 25, 2025
Yet again another book from Susan that gets you hooked from the first page. All of the characters you’ve fallen in love with are back and Barrington’s Indi book shop and the book club are going strong. 2 new characters are introduced in this book who are fleeing domestic violence, this subject was thoughtfully and compassionately written. As always the feeling of being immersed in Barrington yourself is there. You can feel the chill from the snow on the Tops and sitting in the café at the book club meetings eating the wonderful food with everyone chatting about the book. If you have ever wanted to be a part of a small town then you need to read the Barrington series and immerse yourself in country life.
July 3, 2025
This book is a beautiful, warm and delightful read. From the first words, Samantha's story had me hooked and being back in the arms of the wonderful small town of Barrington, surrounded by "friends" was fabulous. Thank you so much for writing this gorgeous story Susan. I loved it!
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