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Secrets of Whitewater Creek
Jordan must save her farm from debt and sabotage – can she place her trust in a man from out of town?
Born and bred on the land, Jordan Windcroft is brave and independent. She's had to be. Her life revolves around running her property almost single-handedly on next to no money, and waiting out her four years of probation — a rap that she took for one of her closest friends for a crime she didn’t commit.
Thankfully there's an end to her problems in sight. Jordan’s probation period is almost up, and if she can just make the cattle sale, there’s a chance she can pull herself out of more than ten years of serious debt and keep her precious farm. The last thing she needs is for Reid Easton to start monitoring her.
Detective Senior Sergeant Reid Easton drives into Whitewater Creek on a mission to wrap up a three-year drug investigation; his only lead, Jordan Windcroft. The attraction between the two is immediate, but Reid is undercover and Jordan has a secret she can’t risk him discovering. Will either jeopardise their cause, for something as transitory as love – or will they keep their secrets to themselves?
Born and bred on the land, Jordan Windcroft is brave and independent. She's had to be. Her life revolves around running her property almost single-handedly on next to no money, and waiting out her four years of probation — a rap that she took for one of her closest friends for a crime she didn’t commit.
Thankfully there's an end to her problems in sight. Jordan’s probation period is almost up, and if she can just make the cattle sale, there’s a chance she can pull herself out of more than ten years of serious debt and keep her precious farm. The last thing she needs is for Reid Easton to start monitoring her.
Detective Senior Sergeant Reid Easton drives into Whitewater Creek on a mission to wrap up a three-year drug investigation; his only lead, Jordan Windcroft. The attraction between the two is immediate, but Reid is undercover and Jordan has a secret she can’t risk him discovering. Will either jeopardise their cause, for something as transitory as love – or will they keep their secrets to themselves?
384 pages, Paperback
First published June 1, 2014
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February 13, 2024
EXCERPT: As Jordan headed for the house, her smile fell. She wished she had Joel's confidence about the cattle. It would be a relief to reach the end of her probation, to put it all behind them for once and for all . . . but there wouldn't be much to celebrate if she lost the farm. And without a good sale, that's exactly what was going to happen.
She looked around. The large sprawling house with its long verandas and pretty cottage windows desperately needed a new coat of paint, the veranda decking needed re-staining, the railings replacing. The native gardens surrounding the house still looked good, though she had to admit her mother had had the real knack for that and precious little had been added over the years.
There was nothing like that view though. More than a decade of debt and neglect had not - could never - diminish the view. The long stretch of paddocks, ancient shade trees and the sparkling creek, the ageless, forested mountains, would always be the same. This place belonged to her, and her to it - and she'd be damned if the bank was going to take it from her.
ABOUT 'SECRETS OF WHITEWATER CREEK': Jordan must save her farm from debt and sabotage – can she place her trust in a man from out of town?
Born and bred on the land, Jordan Windcroft is brave and independent. She's had to be. Her life revolves around running her property almost single-handedly on next to no money, and waiting out her four years of probation — a rap that she took for one of her closest friends for a crime she didn’t commit.
Thankfully there's an end to her problems in sight. Jordan’s probation period is almost up, and if she can just make the cattle sale, there’s a chance she can pull herself out of more than ten years of serious debt and keep her precious farm. The last thing she needs is for Reid Easton to start monitoring her.
Detective Senior Sergeant Reid Easton drives into Whitewater Creek on a mission to wrap up a three-year drug investigation; his only lead, Jordan Windcroft. The attraction between the two is immediate, but Reid is undercover and Jordan has a secret she can’t risk him discovering. Will either jeopardise their cause, for something as transitory as love – or will they keep their secrets to themselves?
MY THOUGHTS: If you enjoy Australian small-town crime/romantic suspense fiction, Secrets of Whitewater Creek is a better than good read. I am usually not a fan of fiction that uses the trope of a drug cartel but this worked for me.
The characters are what makes this novel work. Jordan is a strong woman - she is loyal, sassy and has a determination to make her property work for her. She takes on extra jobs outside her property to stretch her finances and has taken the rap for a crime she did not commit to keep a friend out of even deeper trouble. Reid seems to be a stickler for the rules and, in his role of Jordan's probation officer, makes her life very difficult. But there is more to Reid than meets the eye, and sparks of attraction fly between these two from the outset. There is also a great cast of supporting characters, Carol being my favorite. Just don't mess with that woman!
This is no simple boy meets girl romance. The plot has depth and complexity and combined with the well depicted characters adds up to a very satisfying read.
⭐⭐⭐⭐.4
#SecretsofWhitewaterCreek #WaitomoDistrictLibrary
THE AUTHOR: In a past life, Sarah worked as a teacher, a vet nurse, a horse trainer and a magazine editor, before deciding she wanted to write novels. About the only thing that has remained constant is her love of all things crime.
Her favourite place in the world is the family property, where she writes her stories overlooking mountains crisscrossed with farmland, bordered by the beauty of the Australian bush, and where, at the end of the day, she can spend time with family, friends, a good Irish whiskey and a copy of her next favourite book.
https://sandysbookaday.wordpress.com/...
She looked around. The large sprawling house with its long verandas and pretty cottage windows desperately needed a new coat of paint, the veranda decking needed re-staining, the railings replacing. The native gardens surrounding the house still looked good, though she had to admit her mother had had the real knack for that and precious little had been added over the years.
There was nothing like that view though. More than a decade of debt and neglect had not - could never - diminish the view. The long stretch of paddocks, ancient shade trees and the sparkling creek, the ageless, forested mountains, would always be the same. This place belonged to her, and her to it - and she'd be damned if the bank was going to take it from her.
ABOUT 'SECRETS OF WHITEWATER CREEK': Jordan must save her farm from debt and sabotage – can she place her trust in a man from out of town?
Born and bred on the land, Jordan Windcroft is brave and independent. She's had to be. Her life revolves around running her property almost single-handedly on next to no money, and waiting out her four years of probation — a rap that she took for one of her closest friends for a crime she didn’t commit.
Thankfully there's an end to her problems in sight. Jordan’s probation period is almost up, and if she can just make the cattle sale, there’s a chance she can pull herself out of more than ten years of serious debt and keep her precious farm. The last thing she needs is for Reid Easton to start monitoring her.
Detective Senior Sergeant Reid Easton drives into Whitewater Creek on a mission to wrap up a three-year drug investigation; his only lead, Jordan Windcroft. The attraction between the two is immediate, but Reid is undercover and Jordan has a secret she can’t risk him discovering. Will either jeopardise their cause, for something as transitory as love – or will they keep their secrets to themselves?
MY THOUGHTS: If you enjoy Australian small-town crime/romantic suspense fiction, Secrets of Whitewater Creek is a better than good read. I am usually not a fan of fiction that uses the trope of a drug cartel but this worked for me.
The characters are what makes this novel work. Jordan is a strong woman - she is loyal, sassy and has a determination to make her property work for her. She takes on extra jobs outside her property to stretch her finances and has taken the rap for a crime she did not commit to keep a friend out of even deeper trouble. Reid seems to be a stickler for the rules and, in his role of Jordan's probation officer, makes her life very difficult. But there is more to Reid than meets the eye, and sparks of attraction fly between these two from the outset. There is also a great cast of supporting characters, Carol being my favorite. Just don't mess with that woman!
This is no simple boy meets girl romance. The plot has depth and complexity and combined with the well depicted characters adds up to a very satisfying read.
⭐⭐⭐⭐.4
#SecretsofWhitewaterCreek #WaitomoDistrictLibrary
THE AUTHOR: In a past life, Sarah worked as a teacher, a vet nurse, a horse trainer and a magazine editor, before deciding she wanted to write novels. About the only thing that has remained constant is her love of all things crime.
Her favourite place in the world is the family property, where she writes her stories overlooking mountains crisscrossed with farmland, bordered by the beauty of the Australian bush, and where, at the end of the day, she can spend time with family, friends, a good Irish whiskey and a copy of her next favourite book.
https://sandysbookaday.wordpress.com/...
April 30, 2016
Jordan Windcroft’s four year probation period was coming to an end – she didn’t have a lot of time to think about it though as running her farm single handed, and trying to make ends meet took up every hour of the day. So when the new probation officer arrived, officious and business like, she immediately had ruffled feathers. And he assumed she’d been much guiltier than the punishment showed – so sparks flew. But when he handcuffed Jordan and took her to the police station of Whitewater Creek, the locals were horrified. It looked like he had started off on the wrong foot all round…
Detective Senior Sergeant Reid Easton was on the tail end of a three year drug investigation, and his research had brought him from Sydney to Whitewater Creek. Working undercover with another of his team, Reid knew he was close – but there was something wrong. Some things just didn’t add up. But he was determined – he had a lot at stake and Reid was never one to give up…
Jordan was in danger and didn’t know it – she also had a secret which she could never divulge; the safety of her dearest friends depended on it. She couldn’t afford to be attracted to the stranger in town – but would her heart listen? Desperate to save her farm from the clutches of the bank, Jordan worked at a frantic pace; but someone was equally intent on her losing it. What could she do? She knew she had to solve this one herself…
Secrets of Whitewater Creek by Aussie author Sarah Barrie is an intense and gripping romantic suspense novel which I thoroughly enjoyed. I read Legacy Of Hunters Ridge a few months ago (which was published after this one) and realised I’d discovered another Aussie author who writes books I love. Filled with tension, twists and innuendos it also shows the loyalty and love of a small town toward one of its own. I have no hesitation in highly recommending Secrets of Whitewater Creek to all.
Detective Senior Sergeant Reid Easton was on the tail end of a three year drug investigation, and his research had brought him from Sydney to Whitewater Creek. Working undercover with another of his team, Reid knew he was close – but there was something wrong. Some things just didn’t add up. But he was determined – he had a lot at stake and Reid was never one to give up…
Jordan was in danger and didn’t know it – she also had a secret which she could never divulge; the safety of her dearest friends depended on it. She couldn’t afford to be attracted to the stranger in town – but would her heart listen? Desperate to save her farm from the clutches of the bank, Jordan worked at a frantic pace; but someone was equally intent on her losing it. What could she do? She knew she had to solve this one herself…
Secrets of Whitewater Creek by Aussie author Sarah Barrie is an intense and gripping romantic suspense novel which I thoroughly enjoyed. I read Legacy Of Hunters Ridge a few months ago (which was published after this one) and realised I’d discovered another Aussie author who writes books I love. Filled with tension, twists and innuendos it also shows the loyalty and love of a small town toward one of its own. I have no hesitation in highly recommending Secrets of Whitewater Creek to all.
November 22, 2016
Secrets of Whitewater Creek was my first book written by Sarah Barrie. Wow! I was engaged with Jordan and Reid as soon as I open the book. Jordan was on probation for a crime she did not commit and running her property Windcroft Acres single-handedly. Then Reid came to town undercover as the probation officer and the sparks that few between then entwined throughout the book. The twists and turns throughout the Secrets of Whitewater Creek cause the reader to consistently be shock and surprise with what is happening to the characters. I recommend this book.
January 25, 2015
Intrigue, action and romance blend to create an engaging read in Secrets of Whitewater Creek by Sarah Barrie.
Set in rural Australia, Secrets of Whitewater Creek introduces Jordan Windcroft, who has been running the family farm on her own since the tragic death of her parents. Independent, feisty and a hard worker, she is the town's favourite daughter despite being on probation for the manslaughter, after claiming responsibility for a car accident to protect a friend from a corrupt judge.
Reid Tallon comes to Whitewater Creek posing as a probation officer, chasing a lead on a drug case he has been involved in for three years. He is hoping Jordan, who was also charged with possession when she was arrested, will be able to give him some insight into the local drug trade.
The attraction between the two is immediate, but Reid is undercover, and won't let anyone jeopardise his case, and Jordan, whose focus is on saving her farm, has a secret she can’t risk him discovering.
I really liked Jordan who proves to be a practical, smart and strong woman, I enjoyed her quick witted banter, she isn't afraid to say what she thinks and means what she says. She is loyal almost to a fault, and in her determination to protect her friends, she makes herself vulnerable to a dangerous stalker.
Reid is a smart and capable detective, determined to destroy the drug syndicate he holds accountable for his sister's death.
Both Jordan and Reid try to deny their mutual attraction but it doesn't last long. The development of the relationship is compressed due to the time frame of the novel but nevertheless believable and enjoyed the way they sparked off one another.
The story offers two main arcs, the first involving Reid's investigation of the drug syndicate, the second sees Jordan's life threatened by a crazed stalker. In the main, Secrets of Whitewater Creek is well paced, with a good amount of action balancing out the romance, though I thought that the stalker situation dragged on a little too long.
One aspect of the story that did bother me was the way that Jordan's friends turn on her, suddenly suspecting her of being a drug abuser. I could understand why Reid would jump to the wrong conclusion but I didn't believe that her close friends would do the same.
Still, overall I found Secrets of Whitewater Creek, (previously published as Deadly Secrets) to be a page turning Australian romantic suspense novel with appealing characters, an interesting story and well crafted setting. Perhaps Barrie will allow us to revisit Whitewater Creek again.
July 28, 2014
***This mini-review has also been posted on The Social Potato
Actual Rating 3.5
This book has everything going for it yet the main reason I cannot rate it higher is that it seems to missing the ‘oomph’ factor. I adored this book, yet at the same time, I never fell in love. I rooted for the couple; I adored the main characters; I swooned at the romance; and I was at the edge of my seat because of the intensity of the plot. Yet, after I finished this book, that was it.
Jordan and Reid both suffer from what I'd like to call "the-pretty-people-syndrome" and while their attractiveness is brought up several times in the book, there is so much more to them than that. Both of these characters are well developed and you cannot help but enjoy reading about them.
The romance between the two won’t fail to make you go "aww" at times. It’s a love-hate relationship, and boy, did I love reading their interactions. They get off on the wrong foot, but as they get to know each other more, they started developing feelings for one another. I’ll admit to feeling a sense of 'insta-ness' to their romance because of the short period of time within which they develop their feelings, but that didn’t stop me from shipping the two.
The plot takes the cake though. I have to give the author kudos for developing such a highly entertaining mystery element to this story. She doesn’t try to throw in weird twists to mess with your brain but she doesn’t need to; she isn’t trying to hide things from the reader - she makes the readers live in the moment worrying about the characters and hoping things work out.
This isn't the best romantic suspense out there but I'd definitely recommend it to fans of the genre. Its a quite the read and it won't fail to entertain you.
Actual Rating 3.5
This book has everything going for it yet the main reason I cannot rate it higher is that it seems to missing the ‘oomph’ factor. I adored this book, yet at the same time, I never fell in love. I rooted for the couple; I adored the main characters; I swooned at the romance; and I was at the edge of my seat because of the intensity of the plot. Yet, after I finished this book, that was it.
Jordan and Reid both suffer from what I'd like to call "the-pretty-people-syndrome" and while their attractiveness is brought up several times in the book, there is so much more to them than that. Both of these characters are well developed and you cannot help but enjoy reading about them.
The romance between the two won’t fail to make you go "aww" at times. It’s a love-hate relationship, and boy, did I love reading their interactions. They get off on the wrong foot, but as they get to know each other more, they started developing feelings for one another. I’ll admit to feeling a sense of 'insta-ness' to their romance because of the short period of time within which they develop their feelings, but that didn’t stop me from shipping the two.
The plot takes the cake though. I have to give the author kudos for developing such a highly entertaining mystery element to this story. She doesn’t try to throw in weird twists to mess with your brain but she doesn’t need to; she isn’t trying to hide things from the reader - she makes the readers live in the moment worrying about the characters and hoping things work out.
This isn't the best romantic suspense out there but I'd definitely recommend it to fans of the genre. Its a quite the read and it won't fail to entertain you.
January 23, 2018
I devoured Sarah Barrie's Hunters Ridge series, and have to say this one didn't disappoint me either. Plenty of suspense and secrets in the small town to keep me reading. I did have one issue later in the book with Jordan's friends lack of belief in her, but it didn't spoil my enjoyment of the story. A fabulous story and I can't wait to read more by this author.
January 31, 2015
This was a fantastic read. Jordan and Reid have very strong characters, couldn’t help being drawn to them both.
This was such an intriguing story with more than one story line.
It showed such a great community country feel and how they all look after their own.
Of course Mack stole the story.
This was such an intriguing story with more than one story line.
It showed such a great community country feel and how they all look after their own.
Of course Mack stole the story.
December 27, 2020
Couldn't put it down. Great way to spend day after Boxing Day.
July 3, 2015
Originally published as Deadly Secrets in 2014, Secrets Of Whitewater Creek by Sarah Barrie is an atmospheric romantic suspense centering around Jordan Windcroft, a young woman who, four years ago took the fall for a friend and was convicted for possession of illicit drugs. The little town’s darling, she’s also been struggling to keep her farm afloat since her parents died in a tragic accident and is trying to get enough money together to keep it out of the clutches of the town bully, a corrupt retired judge.
Her probation is about to come to an end when DSS Reid Easton arrives. Reid, a drug squad cop has come to town under cover as her replacement probation officer in the hopes that this is his last stop in wrapping up the investigation he’s been running for the last three years and isn’t interested in the small town politics that keep his suspect protected by its residents. He’s got a job to do and do it he will!
This has been on my TBR for quite some time now but I finally got there. While it’s probably not one of the best romantic suspense novels I’ve had the opportunity to read and review, I still enjoyed the strong characters, the setting and the element of suspense.
Jordan is a soft-hearted, animal-loving protagonist who is also feisty, strong, proud and has attitude - lots of it – which comes through so strongly in both the dialogue and her interactions that I found myself consistently comparing her to Stevie from McLeod’s Daughters.
I enjoyed the character of Reid who is admirable in his battle to bring down anyone who deals in drugs, although the reason behind this incredible desire only becomes clear quite late in the novel.
The villain in this story managed to freak me out because he is given his own viewpoint and isn’t merely a caricature. This, as well as the anonymous messages left for Jordan, serves to heighten the tension in the novel because as the reader we get to see his craftiness, what he wants and why he wants it. For me there was no suspension of disbelief because the situation that Jordan finds herself in could so easily happen. While I give Sarah points for his characterisation, as a reader, I felt that the climax was a tad drawn out and I was left somewhat frustrated.
Despite my misgivings on certain aspects relating to structure, I did enjoy the story and couldn't wait to find out whether the hero and heroine got their happily ever after.
On the whole, Sarah writes well giving us a great sense of place. She has delivered a suspenseful novel that I would certainly recommend and I look forward to reading further contributions from her to the literary world in the future.
Her probation is about to come to an end when DSS Reid Easton arrives. Reid, a drug squad cop has come to town under cover as her replacement probation officer in the hopes that this is his last stop in wrapping up the investigation he’s been running for the last three years and isn’t interested in the small town politics that keep his suspect protected by its residents. He’s got a job to do and do it he will!
This has been on my TBR for quite some time now but I finally got there. While it’s probably not one of the best romantic suspense novels I’ve had the opportunity to read and review, I still enjoyed the strong characters, the setting and the element of suspense.
Jordan is a soft-hearted, animal-loving protagonist who is also feisty, strong, proud and has attitude - lots of it – which comes through so strongly in both the dialogue and her interactions that I found myself consistently comparing her to Stevie from McLeod’s Daughters.
I enjoyed the character of Reid who is admirable in his battle to bring down anyone who deals in drugs, although the reason behind this incredible desire only becomes clear quite late in the novel.
The villain in this story managed to freak me out because he is given his own viewpoint and isn’t merely a caricature. This, as well as the anonymous messages left for Jordan, serves to heighten the tension in the novel because as the reader we get to see his craftiness, what he wants and why he wants it. For me there was no suspension of disbelief because the situation that Jordan finds herself in could so easily happen. While I give Sarah points for his characterisation, as a reader, I felt that the climax was a tad drawn out and I was left somewhat frustrated.
Despite my misgivings on certain aspects relating to structure, I did enjoy the story and couldn't wait to find out whether the hero and heroine got their happily ever after.
On the whole, Sarah writes well giving us a great sense of place. She has delivered a suspenseful novel that I would certainly recommend and I look forward to reading further contributions from her to the literary world in the future.
April 25, 2019
I will forever read any book written by this author.
If you haven't read her yet, go to your local library or bookstore and get on it.
'Secrets of Whitewater Creek' being one of Sarah's first published books is still as gripping and entertaining as her later ones.
If you love romance and suspense, animals, country and plot twists that you don't see coming then please read this book. And Sarah Barrie's "Hunters Ridge" series. You will not be disappointed.
This book has a real "Mclouds Daughters" feel, so much s,o that I have now begun re-watching the show from season one on Stan 😂
I honestly love the wording of almost every conversation had between any character at any given chapter. It's so funny and witty and charismatic. You feel drawn in to the story and characters.
What I don't love is 1) how Reid (one of the main characters) so flipped his lid and instantly believed the worst case senario of Jordan (no spoilers as to what) (and the same of Joel and Harry and the rest of her friends/family.)
And 2) I also felt the ending on this was a bit rushed and ended to abruptly (having read most of Sarah's other books I know she gets a lot better in drawing out suspense/ romance) so if this book didn't do it for you, please don't give up!
I still loved this book though!
And this Author in general! 🙌🏼
If you haven't read her yet, go to your local library or bookstore and get on it.
'Secrets of Whitewater Creek' being one of Sarah's first published books is still as gripping and entertaining as her later ones.
If you love romance and suspense, animals, country and plot twists that you don't see coming then please read this book. And Sarah Barrie's "Hunters Ridge" series. You will not be disappointed.
This book has a real "Mclouds Daughters" feel, so much s,o that I have now begun re-watching the show from season one on Stan 😂
I honestly love the wording of almost every conversation had between any character at any given chapter. It's so funny and witty and charismatic. You feel drawn in to the story and characters.
What I don't love is 1) how Reid (one of the main characters) so flipped his lid and instantly believed the worst case senario of Jordan (no spoilers as to what) (and the same of Joel and Harry and the rest of her friends/family.)
And 2) I also felt the ending on this was a bit rushed and ended to abruptly (having read most of Sarah's other books I know she gets a lot better in drawing out suspense/ romance) so if this book didn't do it for you, please don't give up!
I still loved this book though!
And this Author in general! 🙌🏼
May 9, 2015
Whitewater Creek is a small town with big secrets. Jordan, an independent young woman and resident of Whitewater Creek, is working both solely and tirelessly on ensuring her property does not run into the ground. Money and property worries aside, Jordan is also on probation for four years, after taking the blame for a crime committed by a friend. An upcoming cattle sale is in Jordan’s sights and she hopes that this will pull her out of debt and allow her to keep the farm she dearly loves. Things are looking positive for Jordan until her life is complicated by a Detective who arrives in Whitewater Creek. Detective Sergeant Reid Easton comes to Whitewater Creek to work undercover, trying to close an ongoing drug investigation. Unfortunately for Jordan, she is Reid’s only lead but both find themselves immediately attracted to one another.
Whitewater Creek is a great read for those who enjoy Australian small town crime fiction. This book has a mix of drama, suspense, mystery and romance. Barrie has created two realistic and strong leads. Jordan is a heroine with a strong work ethic and sassy attitude. She is paired with Detective Sergeant Reid Easton, who is a very masculine and sexy male lead. The immediate attraction between the two and the tension that builds between them jumped right off the pages of this book. Barrie also does a good job of depicting small town community feelings and actions in this book. Life on Jordan’s farm is vividly described, which I as city girl enjoyed reading the stark contrast to my own life. I am a big fan of the Australian rural genre and what I thought stood out about this book in particular, was the plot. Rather than focus simply on the boy meets girl relationship, Barrie adds substance to the storyline by focussing the role of drugs in rural communities in Australia. An intriguing plot, well drawn characters and a fabulous rural setting combine to make Whitewater Creek a great read. I look forward to reading more from Sarah Barrie, a talented voice of Australian rural fiction.
Whitewater Creek is a great read for those who enjoy Australian small town crime fiction. This book has a mix of drama, suspense, mystery and romance. Barrie has created two realistic and strong leads. Jordan is a heroine with a strong work ethic and sassy attitude. She is paired with Detective Sergeant Reid Easton, who is a very masculine and sexy male lead. The immediate attraction between the two and the tension that builds between them jumped right off the pages of this book. Barrie also does a good job of depicting small town community feelings and actions in this book. Life on Jordan’s farm is vividly described, which I as city girl enjoyed reading the stark contrast to my own life. I am a big fan of the Australian rural genre and what I thought stood out about this book in particular, was the plot. Rather than focus simply on the boy meets girl relationship, Barrie adds substance to the storyline by focussing the role of drugs in rural communities in Australia. An intriguing plot, well drawn characters and a fabulous rural setting combine to make Whitewater Creek a great read. I look forward to reading more from Sarah Barrie, a talented voice of Australian rural fiction.
April 9, 2015
I enjoyed this a lot. The cattle scenes felt very authentic, and the villain lurking to hurt Jordan added a nice tight line of suspense to the book. I found myself skipping pages toward the end and this wasn't from any boredom with the writing, it was to find out what happened next... So possibly that's a hint that the climax was just drawn out a little too long. (Or perhaps I'm impatient, which I know is true!)
I did have a bit of trouble with both Joel and Reid's dismissal of Jordan's version of events, and their assumptions, which led to all the trouble in their relationship at the end. It might have worked better had the writer let us know about Reid's sister and her problems earlier in the story. Treated the way it was, Reid's issues with drugs/addiction came as a surprise at the wrong time of the book for me.
But very well done! This is the first work by Sarah Barrie that I've read.
I did have a bit of trouble with both Joel and Reid's dismissal of Jordan's version of events, and their assumptions, which led to all the trouble in their relationship at the end. It might have worked better had the writer let us know about Reid's sister and her problems earlier in the story. Treated the way it was, Reid's issues with drugs/addiction came as a surprise at the wrong time of the book for me.
But very well done! This is the first work by Sarah Barrie that I've read.
June 7, 2014
Oh What a book! Deadly Secrets by Sarah Barrie was a book full of mystery, intrigue, suspense, action and romance! One full on breathtaking read!
Just when you thought you have the story figured out, the Author throws a curve ball in the plot that keeps you guessing about where the scenario is alluding to. The character interaction is exceptional with lots of twists in the plot with the story flowing well throughout the book.
Jordan's smart, hot headed energy of a character was a good match for the serious, likeable Reid.
Lots of additional characters in the story just add to the great book read with one almighty finale. An absolute stand out read.
5 Phenomenal stars
*ARC received from the Publisher for an honest review
Just when you thought you have the story figured out, the Author throws a curve ball in the plot that keeps you guessing about where the scenario is alluding to. The character interaction is exceptional with lots of twists in the plot with the story flowing well throughout the book.
Jordan's smart, hot headed energy of a character was a good match for the serious, likeable Reid.
Lots of additional characters in the story just add to the great book read with one almighty finale. An absolute stand out read.
5 Phenomenal stars
*ARC received from the Publisher for an honest review
September 9, 2016
While I really enjoyed this novel, and the writer certainly knows how to spin a yarn, there were a few instances where it seemed characters acted out of character so that the story would progress, especially the part where everyone, even the people who knew her intimately, thought she was on drugs, when anyone with an ounce of sense would know better.
I'd prefer to give this 3.5 stars, but I can't give it four.
I'd prefer to give this 3.5 stars, but I can't give it four.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 17, 2015
I read this book when it was titled Secrets of Whitewater Creek. Very soft in the 'thriller' department. More of a country romance between tough city cop and tough independent country girl. I can see why many (mostly female) readers would like it though, hence the four stars. Not hard core enough for me but enjoyable all the same.
February 23, 2016
Quite a gripping story which is set in Australia (but for some reason I kept thinking America) this book kept me turning the pages. There were a few cringeworthy lines, but overall I enjoyed it. I am not sure if it was the names of the characters, or the dialect used, but to me it didn't quite ring true for an outback Australian setting.
October 8, 2015
Enjoyable reading. Loved the storyline with twists - definitely couldn't of predicted the things that happened, even when I thought I could
October 4, 2015
Read like watching a tv show. Drama romance suspense. Australian n good characters the story kept your attention to the end.
January 17, 2025
Loved loved loved this book
August 17, 2016
loved this book could not put it down xo
November 25, 2017
(I received a free copy of this book from Net Galley in exchange for an honest review.)
Born and bred on the land, Jordan Windcroft is brave and independent. She's had to be. Her life revolves around running her property almost single-handedly on next to no money, and waiting out her four years of probation — a rap that she took for one of her closest friends for a crime she didn’t commit.
Thankfully there's an end to her problems in sight. Jordan’s probation period is almost up, and if she can just make the cattle sale, there’s a chance she can pull herself out of more than ten years of serious debt and keep her precious farm. The last thing she needs is for Reid Easton to start monitoring her.
Detective Senior Sergeant Reid Easton drives into Whitewater Creek on a mission to wrap up a three-year drug investigation; his only lead, Jordan Windcroft. The attraction between the two is immediate, but Reid is undercover and Jordan has a secret she can’t risk him discovering. Will either jeopardise their cause, for something as transitory as love – or will they keep their secrets to themselves?
It would be very easy to write this book off as "A chick with a hat" rural romance novel - but it is far more than that. It would be easy to classify this as "boy meets girl, they fall in love, HEA" - but, again, it is more than that.
There are a few things to really like about this story. Firstly, the location. Small country towns are known for being hives of family secrets and unexposed scandals. So following this story was very easy - wasn't a stretch at all to believe the way the people who lived in Whitewater Creek behaved.
Secondly, the main characters. Jordan was a fiesty, foul-mouthed independent woman (she was actually more than this but for the sake of brevity, I think that sums her up!) who captivates the reader throughout the story. As we discover her story, we are drawn to her loyalty and determination. Reid, on the other hand, is a bit of an alpha-male but very skilled detective, chasing down the drug syndicate he has been on the case of for three years. He has his reasons for wanting to rid the world of drugs (you have to wait til late in the book though...) He is a great balance with Jordan and the two of them were bound to have some chemistry...
Next, the secondary characters. Wow! What a range of people populate this small town. Some truly despicable, shady characters as well as people (such as Madi and Matt) who just make the thought of living with them as neighbours wouldn't be the worst thing you could ever do.
Finally, the story itself: apart from a few minor issues, this story had be invested all the way through. The "secrets" that the title refers to are worth waiting for and the twists and turns that Reid and Jordan go through are thrilling to say the least. This could have easily just left to be a simple "romantic suspense" novel - with the emphasis on romance - but that just wasn't the case. The mystery aspect of the story was very good and kept me intrigued. The finale was a bit of a letdown but, really, it is a minor thing...
I have no problem whatsoever recommending this book!
Paul
ARH
Born and bred on the land, Jordan Windcroft is brave and independent. She's had to be. Her life revolves around running her property almost single-handedly on next to no money, and waiting out her four years of probation — a rap that she took for one of her closest friends for a crime she didn’t commit.
Thankfully there's an end to her problems in sight. Jordan’s probation period is almost up, and if she can just make the cattle sale, there’s a chance she can pull herself out of more than ten years of serious debt and keep her precious farm. The last thing she needs is for Reid Easton to start monitoring her.
Detective Senior Sergeant Reid Easton drives into Whitewater Creek on a mission to wrap up a three-year drug investigation; his only lead, Jordan Windcroft. The attraction between the two is immediate, but Reid is undercover and Jordan has a secret she can’t risk him discovering. Will either jeopardise their cause, for something as transitory as love – or will they keep their secrets to themselves?
It would be very easy to write this book off as "A chick with a hat" rural romance novel - but it is far more than that. It would be easy to classify this as "boy meets girl, they fall in love, HEA" - but, again, it is more than that.
There are a few things to really like about this story. Firstly, the location. Small country towns are known for being hives of family secrets and unexposed scandals. So following this story was very easy - wasn't a stretch at all to believe the way the people who lived in Whitewater Creek behaved.
Secondly, the main characters. Jordan was a fiesty, foul-mouthed independent woman (she was actually more than this but for the sake of brevity, I think that sums her up!) who captivates the reader throughout the story. As we discover her story, we are drawn to her loyalty and determination. Reid, on the other hand, is a bit of an alpha-male but very skilled detective, chasing down the drug syndicate he has been on the case of for three years. He has his reasons for wanting to rid the world of drugs (you have to wait til late in the book though...) He is a great balance with Jordan and the two of them were bound to have some chemistry...
Next, the secondary characters. Wow! What a range of people populate this small town. Some truly despicable, shady characters as well as people (such as Madi and Matt) who just make the thought of living with them as neighbours wouldn't be the worst thing you could ever do.
Finally, the story itself: apart from a few minor issues, this story had be invested all the way through. The "secrets" that the title refers to are worth waiting for and the twists and turns that Reid and Jordan go through are thrilling to say the least. This could have easily just left to be a simple "romantic suspense" novel - with the emphasis on romance - but that just wasn't the case. The mystery aspect of the story was very good and kept me intrigued. The finale was a bit of a letdown but, really, it is a minor thing...
I have no problem whatsoever recommending this book!
Paul
ARH
May 25, 2018
The past couple of weeks for me have been exams, exams and more bloody exams and I just haven't had the time to read. It has been killing me! I tried to sneak in a couple of chapters every night before bed at least but that became a struggle... Now that they are over - finally! - I get to sit down. Hallelujah! Deadly Secrets was the perfect book for me to get back into the reading mood. There is a lot that I can nitpick about it. There were some clichés, the middle was a little slow and dragged on a bit too long, the ending was a tad predictable but you know what? I didn't need a perfect book. I needed something entertaining and something fun - which is precisely what I got.
I have to say that I simply adored the characters and they really made this story for me. Jordan is everything you can wish for in a female protagonist: funny, strong, independent (not clingy or obsessive), sassy, savvy, feisty, not afraid to stick up for herself, tough... I can go on! I simply loved her approach to life. She never once complained, despite everything thrown her way and she didn't depend on any knight in shining armour or fairy godmother to come and rescue her. She had everything planned out for herself and I really admired her determination.
The romance not only beautiful and swoonworthy, but also well-developed. There was no instalove. There was a bit of insta-attraction but it wasn't acted upon until appropriate. I completely fell in love with Reid as I read more and more about him. He is loyal, sweet, sassy, funny, passionate and fierce. He is the type to love with all his heart and never give up, ever. I loved his relationship with Jordan and I really wish this had a sequel so I could read more of him!
I enjoyed the mystery aspects also. The drug investigation was a little bit duller than I would have expected and I wish there had been a more exciting conclusion. The switch over to the next "mystery" (I won't such more than that so it won't be spoiled) was dragged out a little too much for my liking. The second mystery was super creepy and I loved the thriller vibe it gave. I was kept on my on toes the entire time and loved every minute of it.
Overall, I really enjoyed Deadly Secrets. It was a pleasant surprise and a great break from the crappy week I've been having. I would recommend it to NA contemporary fans that love murder mysteries as well. I am definitely checking out more of this author's work!
Review copy provided by the publisher for an honest review.
I have to say that I simply adored the characters and they really made this story for me. Jordan is everything you can wish for in a female protagonist: funny, strong, independent (not clingy or obsessive), sassy, savvy, feisty, not afraid to stick up for herself, tough... I can go on! I simply loved her approach to life. She never once complained, despite everything thrown her way and she didn't depend on any knight in shining armour or fairy godmother to come and rescue her. She had everything planned out for herself and I really admired her determination.
The romance not only beautiful and swoonworthy, but also well-developed. There was no instalove. There was a bit of insta-attraction but it wasn't acted upon until appropriate. I completely fell in love with Reid as I read more and more about him. He is loyal, sweet, sassy, funny, passionate and fierce. He is the type to love with all his heart and never give up, ever. I loved his relationship with Jordan and I really wish this had a sequel so I could read more of him!
I enjoyed the mystery aspects also. The drug investigation was a little bit duller than I would have expected and I wish there had been a more exciting conclusion. The switch over to the next "mystery" (I won't such more than that so it won't be spoiled) was dragged out a little too much for my liking. The second mystery was super creepy and I loved the thriller vibe it gave. I was kept on my on toes the entire time and loved every minute of it.
Overall, I really enjoyed Deadly Secrets. It was a pleasant surprise and a great break from the crappy week I've been having. I would recommend it to NA contemporary fans that love murder mysteries as well. I am definitely checking out more of this author's work!
Review copy provided by the publisher for an honest review.
September 21, 2025
Actual Rating: 3.5 Stars
After reading the Lexi Winter series by this author and really enjoying it, I have started reading some of Ms Barrie's back catalogue of work and it has been a little hit or miss for me. I think the main reason is that many of the books were written 10 years ago (and feel a little dated) and are in genres that I don't usually seek out and are quite distinct from the Lexi series.
However, even though this was written in 2014 I still enjoyed it. I liked the characters. I liked the town. I liked the romance. I liked the writing - but it never went to next level for me and when the second half of the book kicked in it went off on a pretty out there tangent and believability went out the window ().
A nice read.
Reading Challenge
Aussie Readers 2025 Annual Calendar of Books: September - Read a book by an author with an initial of S
Aussie Readers 2025 Annual Challenge 2025 - A-Z Road Trip!: I am going on a road trip, and I'm spying with my little eye something beginning with H. Read a book with a hat on the cover.
Aussie Readers 2025 6-month (Autumn to Spring) Challenge: Read a book with a title starting with the letters in LEAVES (S)
Aussie Readers 2025 September "Elizabeth Strout" Challenge: When Strout relaxes she likes to spend her time knitting. She also enjoys hiking and nature. Read a book with a picture of nature on the cover.
Aussie Readers 2025 Spring Reading Challenge: Read a book where the title begins with a letter in SPRING
After reading the Lexi Winter series by this author and really enjoying it, I have started reading some of Ms Barrie's back catalogue of work and it has been a little hit or miss for me. I think the main reason is that many of the books were written 10 years ago (and feel a little dated) and are in genres that I don't usually seek out and are quite distinct from the Lexi series.
However, even though this was written in 2014 I still enjoyed it. I liked the characters. I liked the town. I liked the romance. I liked the writing - but it never went to next level for me and when the second half of the book kicked in it went off on a pretty out there tangent and believability went out the window ().
A nice read.
Reading Challenge
Aussie Readers 2025 Annual Calendar of Books: September - Read a book by an author with an initial of S
Aussie Readers 2025 Annual Challenge 2025 - A-Z Road Trip!: I am going on a road trip, and I'm spying with my little eye something beginning with H. Read a book with a hat on the cover.
Aussie Readers 2025 6-month (Autumn to Spring) Challenge: Read a book with a title starting with the letters in LEAVES (S)
Aussie Readers 2025 September "Elizabeth Strout" Challenge: When Strout relaxes she likes to spend her time knitting. She also enjoys hiking and nature. Read a book with a picture of nature on the cover.
Aussie Readers 2025 Spring Reading Challenge: Read a book where the title begins with a letter in SPRING
February 5, 2020
I found this to be a captivating read and stayed up late reading it the first night I started it. The characters were compelling and I especially liked Jordan and the way she dealt with whatever life threw at her. The chemistry between Jordan and Reid was convincing. I do think some actions by particular characters were a little ridiculous towards the end but it didn't diminish the overall quality of the story.
August 22, 2018
I'm so excited to have found an amazing new (to me) Australian author.
The Secrets of Whitewater Creek was seriously addictive. I was hooked from the very first page, and totally in love with both Reid and Jordan. This is one of those books that I just didn't want to end! I would have happily stayed in Whitewater Creek for much longer.
The Secrets of Whitewater Creek was seriously addictive. I was hooked from the very first page, and totally in love with both Reid and Jordan. This is one of those books that I just didn't want to end! I would have happily stayed in Whitewater Creek for much longer.
August 11, 2019
My introduction into Sarah Barrie was Devil’s Lair. All reviews indicated that this book was awesome, resulting in a reward. Sorry., couldn’t get into this book. 100 pages in, there was nothing going for it but a romantic load of predictable cliche.
Bitterly disappointed. On to the next book on my to read list without so much as a fleeting thought.
Bitterly disappointed. On to the next book on my to read list without so much as a fleeting thought.
August 10, 2020
I did enjoy Secrets at Whitewater Creek, but struggled to like Reid, his overreactions and arrogance at times did not warm me to him. Found myself very frustrated a few times. That being said it was a good book but not my favourite of Sarah Barrie, I did love The Hunters Ridge series. I will definitely read more of Sarah's books.
December 12, 2023
Fast, dramatic … yet sweet story.
There is a lot to like about the main protagonist, Jordan. She is a woman who knows her own mind and is feisty and determined. I love that this is an Australian novel. The plot was good, though at times could have been better. Nice romance entwined with drama, action, and suspense.
There is a lot to like about the main protagonist, Jordan. She is a woman who knows her own mind and is feisty and determined. I love that this is an Australian novel. The plot was good, though at times could have been better. Nice romance entwined with drama, action, and suspense.
May 18, 2025
Having enjoyed Sarah Barrie’s Lexie Winter series I thought I would like this book. Unfortunately it was a DNF at 25%. Although I found most of the characters likeable-especially fiesty Jordan - I found Reid an irritating, up himself wanker that constantly annoyed me. The narrator’s portrayal of Reid contributed my dislike.
June 2, 2017
Finally finished this book! Completely lost my reading mojo whilst reading this book due to other things happening in my life. So I felt I could have enjoyed this book more than I did. I did like the suspense and mystery of the book though and will definitely try this author again.
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