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Moonlight Plains
In 1942, as the Japanese sweep towards northern Australia and allied troops swarm into Townsville, Kitty Martin is sent inland to the safety of Moonlight Plains. But when two American airmen crash on the isolated property, she is forced to grow up fast, coming face to face with tragedy, with love . . . and with heartbreak.
Years on, and Sally Piper, a young journalist, is sent to Moonlight Plains to cover the story of a cattleman turned builder who is restoring his grandmother's forgotten homestead. Sparks fly between them, but Sally is struggling to let go of the past, and Luke has his eyes fixed firmly on the future.
What they uncover together is a shocking secret that has been kept safe for more than seventy years. Now the entire family's happiness is at stake - or does the truth about the past hold a valuable lesson for the future?
From the internationally acclaimed and award-winning romance writer Barbara Hannay comes this breathtaking novel about finding love against all the odds. It will have you smiling - and crying - from beginning to end.
Praise for Barbara Hannay's bestsellers:
'Hannay's touch is deft, her pacing perfect and it all adds up to a gem of a story that certainly deserves a RITA.' Smart Bitches, Trashy Books
'For romance fans who enjoy strong characterisation, steamy love scenes and a vivid Australian setting.' Aussie Book Review
'A fantastic story with beautiful characters and a lovely backdrop of rural Australia . . . heartache, loss, love and new beginnings.' 1 girl . . . 2 many books
350 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 27, 2014
9 people are currently reading
744 people want to read
About the author
Barbara Hannay
410 books294 followersMulti award winning author, Barbara Hannay, is a city bred girl with a yen for country life. Most of her 50 plus books are set in rural and outback Australia and they've been enjoyed by readers around the world.
Barbara has been nominated five times for Romance Writers of America's RITA Award which she won in 2007 and she has twice won Australia's Romantic Book of the Year award.
In her own version of life imitating art, Barbara and her husband currently live on a misty hillside in beautiful Far North Queensland where they keep heritage pigs, hens, ducks, turkeys and an untidy but productive garden.
Visit Barbara's website at www.barbarahannay.com
Follow her on Facebook and Twitter
Barbara has been nominated five times for Romance Writers of America's RITA Award which she won in 2007 and she has twice won Australia's Romantic Book of the Year award.
In her own version of life imitating art, Barbara and her husband currently live on a misty hillside in beautiful Far North Queensland where they keep heritage pigs, hens, ducks, turkeys and an untidy but productive garden.
Visit Barbara's website at www.barbarahannay.com
Follow her on Facebook and Twitter
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 59 reviews
September 9, 2025
At nineteen years of age young Kitty Martin lived a life of contentment with her strict grandparents in Townsville; that was until the fear of a Japanese invasion. 1942 found the arrival of American troops and the enlisting of many of the town’s young men, including Andy Mathieson whom Kitty had known for a long time. But she wasn’t aware of Andy’s feelings for her until the day he was posted out…
When Kitty was sent by her grandfather to Moonlight Plains to cook and care for her widowed uncle, she had no idea the move to the quiet and isolated cattle property would change her life completely. When her uncle left her alone while he mustered cattle for a few days, she found herself coping with a plane crash involving American airmen – her terror at the thought it was a Japanese plane turned to intense relief when she realized it wasn’t. But her life changing events weren’t over…
Seventy years later, Kitty was in a nursing home – her grandson Luke had decided to renovate Moonlight Plains for his grandma before it was too late. When he met Sally Piper at a ball they were both attending in Charters Towers, the attraction between the two of them was instant. With Sally, who was a journalist, preparing to do an article for a magazine on Luke’s renovations, he realized he would see her much more often than he first realized. He wasn’t sure how he would cope with that…
But as the renovations forged ahead, secrets from a long ago past were slowly being uncovered – secrets that could have the power to destroy families; or would they create a semblance of peace and happiness for the future?
I thoroughly enjoyed Moonlight Plains. The story moved backwards and forwards between the two timeframes with ease, creating a wonderful back story to the events of the current days. The word pictures were painted beautifully – so much so that I could visualise the old homestead with the Australian bush surrounding it, the flooding creek nearby, the birds and kangaroos watching and listening. This is a novel I have no hesitation in recommending highly.
With thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my copy to read and review.
When Kitty was sent by her grandfather to Moonlight Plains to cook and care for her widowed uncle, she had no idea the move to the quiet and isolated cattle property would change her life completely. When her uncle left her alone while he mustered cattle for a few days, she found herself coping with a plane crash involving American airmen – her terror at the thought it was a Japanese plane turned to intense relief when she realized it wasn’t. But her life changing events weren’t over…
Seventy years later, Kitty was in a nursing home – her grandson Luke had decided to renovate Moonlight Plains for his grandma before it was too late. When he met Sally Piper at a ball they were both attending in Charters Towers, the attraction between the two of them was instant. With Sally, who was a journalist, preparing to do an article for a magazine on Luke’s renovations, he realized he would see her much more often than he first realized. He wasn’t sure how he would cope with that…
But as the renovations forged ahead, secrets from a long ago past were slowly being uncovered – secrets that could have the power to destroy families; or would they create a semblance of peace and happiness for the future?
I thoroughly enjoyed Moonlight Plains. The story moved backwards and forwards between the two timeframes with ease, creating a wonderful back story to the events of the current days. The word pictures were painted beautifully – so much so that I could visualise the old homestead with the Australian bush surrounding it, the flooding creek nearby, the birds and kangaroos watching and listening. This is a novel I have no hesitation in recommending highly.
With thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my copy to read and review.
September 25, 2014
This was my first time reading this author and I must say I was thoroughly impressed. I'm not surprised that this is not Barbara Hannay's first book. It had also been a while since I'd read a good romance and Hannay's book ticked all the boxes. The story swept me up and I liked the way she told the two stories...Luke and Sally in the present and Kitty's story in the past. I think too what appealed to me were the historical references...a war time romance and Australia, more specifically Townsville and it's experiences during WWII. I loved too the description of the old homestead and the Australian countryside, which never ceases to surprise me. I will definitely seek out more of Hannay's books now, although whether I can fit them in is another thing!!!!
October 26, 2018
Setting - Queensland, Australia.
I would like to mention three of the main characters in Moonlight Plains.
There is Sally Piper, who has been griefing for a while, but, throughout the book discovers that she needs to shed her skin and start a fresh. Bumping into Luke Fairburn was the start of a smouldering love.
There is Kitty Mathieson, who now lives in a nursing home.
There is Luke Fairburn, THE Luke Fairburn, a handsome devil of a man.
Kitty is Lukes grandmother. Kitty, who has an old homestead in much of repair has Luke, who is a qualified builder, to renovate it, which is situated on Moonlight Plains. Sally, who is a freelance journalist documents the procedure for a magazine. The cliff hanger falls when at last the renovations are finished and a mystery person shows up to disturb the whole scene.
This book goes from Sally and Josh (deceased husband) and the background of their lives, to, Sallys life now. Kitty Mathieson, her life before she lived in the nursing home, her life during the war and her life now.
Barbara Hannay has a beautiful way of pacing the Moonlight Plains, it's subtle and caring, leading up to a climax that's wonderfully placed and perfectly delivered. Moonlight Plains, is a loveable read.
Moonlight Plains comes highly recommended by me.... if you like historical fiction (particularly Australia) romance (which is beautifully tantalising) and love a gradual paced book, then this one is for you. Be aware though, you may want to get your tissues ready as it could be a tear jerker for some.... but does have a happy ending.
I would like to mention three of the main characters in Moonlight Plains.
There is Sally Piper, who has been griefing for a while, but, throughout the book discovers that she needs to shed her skin and start a fresh. Bumping into Luke Fairburn was the start of a smouldering love.
There is Kitty Mathieson, who now lives in a nursing home.
There is Luke Fairburn, THE Luke Fairburn, a handsome devil of a man.
Kitty is Lukes grandmother. Kitty, who has an old homestead in much of repair has Luke, who is a qualified builder, to renovate it, which is situated on Moonlight Plains. Sally, who is a freelance journalist documents the procedure for a magazine. The cliff hanger falls when at last the renovations are finished and a mystery person shows up to disturb the whole scene.
This book goes from Sally and Josh (deceased husband) and the background of their lives, to, Sallys life now. Kitty Mathieson, her life before she lived in the nursing home, her life during the war and her life now.
Barbara Hannay has a beautiful way of pacing the Moonlight Plains, it's subtle and caring, leading up to a climax that's wonderfully placed and perfectly delivered. Moonlight Plains, is a loveable read.
Moonlight Plains comes highly recommended by me.... if you like historical fiction (particularly Australia) romance (which is beautifully tantalising) and love a gradual paced book, then this one is for you. Be aware though, you may want to get your tissues ready as it could be a tear jerker for some.... but does have a happy ending.
August 26, 2014
Continuing her loosely linked series featuring the Fairburn family, Barbara Hannay presents Moonlight Plains, an engaging romance which blends a contemporary and historical narrative.
In 1942, as the Japanese threaten the coast of North Queensland, nineteen year old Kitty Martin is sent to Moonlight Plains, the home of her widowed great uncle, far west of Townsville. Kitty, frustrated to be thwarted in her desire to assist in the war effort, is only in residence for a few weeks when two US airmen, blown off course, are forced to ditch their planes at the isolated property, and she finds herself facing tragedy... and heartbreak.
Nearly seventy years later, Kitty is glad her grandson is restoring the faded grandeur of the homestead at Moonlight Plains and quietly pleased that her young friend Sally Piper, a journalist, has taken an interest both in the project, and Luke Fairburn. Kitty only hopes that with the restoration of the past, she can keep hidden her own long held secret that could ruin everything.
Kitty's wartime narrative reveals a bittersweet love story, of risks taken and hearts broken. Kitty's 70 year old secret is easily guessed but I really liked her storyline which is sweet and poignant and I felt for Kitty confronted with a difficult choice in a difficult time.
The development of Sally and Luke's contemporary relationship follows a familiar path, their physical attraction eventually leads to deeper feelings though neither are willing to admit it. I could understand Sally's hesitance, though I thought the specific reason for her feelings of guilt was an odd aside.
I didn't think Luke's reaction to his grandmother's secret was entirely in keeping with his character. A moment of pique I could understand but his hurt feelings, even in light of his relationship with Sally, seemed excessive. Laura's reaction to the cache of secret letters written by her father to Kitty was more believable given she lacked the context of the relationship and was still grieving both her father's passing and bitter over her recent marital breakdown.
I often forget that WW2 was also fought on our shores (I've complained before about the failure of the Australian curriculum to focus on the conflicts that occurred on our own soil when I was at school) and so I appreciated the brief glimpse from Hannay of its effects on Townsville and its residents. I also found it easy to visualise the restored grandeur of the old Queenslander at Moonlight Plains, nestled within its bush setting.
A winsome novel, Moonlight Plains seamlessly weaves together a lovely story of love lost and gained. This is another delightful rural romance from Barbara Hannay, following on from Zoe's Muster and Home Before Sundown.
August 31, 2014
4.5 stars
When Luke meets Sally at a 1940's style dance there is an instant attraction. Sally, still grieving after the sudden death of her husband, makes it clear to Luke she is not interested in a relationship. However when Luke invites her to see " Moonlight Plains" , the homestead he is renovating, she falls instantly in love with it asking if she can do a feature article, for a magazine, on his renovation project. Thus begins their tumultuous relationship.
1942 - Kitty Martin aged 19 has seen her long time friend, Andy, off to war. But when the American soldiers come to Townsville, Kitty is sent off to her great uncles country homestead "Moonlight Plains" by her overly strict Grandfather to keep her out of harms way. However, one evening when Kitty is alone on the homestead the war comes to Moonlight Plains when two American airmen crash land on the farm. Kitty grabs a lantern and goes in search of the planes. When she finds Americans Ed Langley and Bobby Kowalski little does she know she will see first hand the tragedy of war, find love and lose it.
As the past and present collide long held secrets are uncovered that could tear this family apart.
The big secret was guessed well and truly before the end of the story but this wasn't meant to be a story with a jaw dropping twist. It was a beautiful story of love, found and lost, of sacrifice, of family. I was more drawn towards the historical side of the story because I love stories about the war and how people’s lives were during and after the war. It was extra pleasing to read a war story with an Australian flavour.
I highly recommend this light easy read that will bring tears to your eyes on more than one occasion.
When Luke meets Sally at a 1940's style dance there is an instant attraction. Sally, still grieving after the sudden death of her husband, makes it clear to Luke she is not interested in a relationship. However when Luke invites her to see " Moonlight Plains" , the homestead he is renovating, she falls instantly in love with it asking if she can do a feature article, for a magazine, on his renovation project. Thus begins their tumultuous relationship.
1942 - Kitty Martin aged 19 has seen her long time friend, Andy, off to war. But when the American soldiers come to Townsville, Kitty is sent off to her great uncles country homestead "Moonlight Plains" by her overly strict Grandfather to keep her out of harms way. However, one evening when Kitty is alone on the homestead the war comes to Moonlight Plains when two American airmen crash land on the farm. Kitty grabs a lantern and goes in search of the planes. When she finds Americans Ed Langley and Bobby Kowalski little does she know she will see first hand the tragedy of war, find love and lose it.
As the past and present collide long held secrets are uncovered that could tear this family apart.
The big secret was guessed well and truly before the end of the story but this wasn't meant to be a story with a jaw dropping twist. It was a beautiful story of love, found and lost, of sacrifice, of family. I was more drawn towards the historical side of the story because I love stories about the war and how people’s lives were during and after the war. It was extra pleasing to read a war story with an Australian flavour.
I highly recommend this light easy read that will bring tears to your eyes on more than one occasion.
November 10, 2014
Oh, what an absolutely fabulous story Barbara Hannay has woven! Set in Queensland (northern Australia) in modern day and Australia during World War II, we are taken on a beautiful, sad, romantic and wonderful story of two women: Kitty, a ninety year old nursing home resident, and Sally, a twent-seven year old widow about to embark on a new life (although she doesn't know it).
Enter Luke Fairburn, tall, tanned, well built and sweet, sweet, gorgeous, sweet. His connection to Kitty will take him and Sally on a journey to places they never thought they'd go, and uncover a secret that has been hidden for seventy years.
A wonderfully innocent, bittersweet, very Australian story which I thoroughly enjoyed and recommend. Thanks, Elaine for recommending it.
Enter Luke Fairburn, tall, tanned, well built and sweet, sweet, gorgeous, sweet. His connection to Kitty will take him and Sally on a journey to places they never thought they'd go, and uncover a secret that has been hidden for seventy years.
A wonderfully innocent, bittersweet, very Australian story which I thoroughly enjoyed and recommend. Thanks, Elaine for recommending it.
March 27, 2017
Tak tohle se vážně povedlo!! :)
Čtivé, romantické, napínavé. Sice zde měla větší prostor láska a vztahy než přímo válka, ale i tak <3
90%
Čtivé, romantické, napínavé. Sice zde měla větší prostor láska a vztahy než přímo válka, ale i tak <3
90%
March 20, 2015
This novel takes place in different times, between 2013 and present day. We have Sally who is still grieving the death of her husband Josh, a letter from Boston in 2010 and Kitty’s story starting in 1942, when the war came too close to Australian northern shores. Moonlight Plains is a house and property originally belonged to Kitty’s uncle but in the present day it is being restored by Kitty’s grandson Luke. Kitty’s memories of Moonlight Plains are very mixed. It was there she met two American airmen blown off course when the landed near the house.
The Australian setting and the house are beautifully portrayed and the characters in this book really come alive, although at times I did think more honest communication could have nipped some relationship problems in the bud earlier, especially when it came to the relationship between Luke and Sally a journalist writing about the restoration of the house. I did find some of the reactions of Luke and a couple of others at times in the story a bit excessive, but maybe that’s me. However I read this book through quite quickly and mostly enjoyed the story and the characters. I always wanted to get back to it. The flow of the story moves easily between the different time frames.
One quote I particularly thought was true was.’ Young people today have their heads filled with Hollywood and Valentine’s Day, but romance alone can’t sustain a couple through a lifetime. A good marriage doesn’t just happen, you know. It’s built by two people and it takes work, just like building a house’s one.’ As one long married, I agree with that. There is a bit more to the quote but I’ll leave you to read the rest in the context of the story.
I’ve read a couple of novels by this author and she always tells a good story and presents a good picture of Australian life up north. If you like Australian rural romance and family relationships with a touch of history you should like this. I did.
The Australian setting and the house are beautifully portrayed and the characters in this book really come alive, although at times I did think more honest communication could have nipped some relationship problems in the bud earlier, especially when it came to the relationship between Luke and Sally a journalist writing about the restoration of the house. I did find some of the reactions of Luke and a couple of others at times in the story a bit excessive, but maybe that’s me. However I read this book through quite quickly and mostly enjoyed the story and the characters. I always wanted to get back to it. The flow of the story moves easily between the different time frames.
One quote I particularly thought was true was.’ Young people today have their heads filled with Hollywood and Valentine’s Day, but romance alone can’t sustain a couple through a lifetime. A good marriage doesn’t just happen, you know. It’s built by two people and it takes work, just like building a house’s one.’ As one long married, I agree with that. There is a bit more to the quote but I’ll leave you to read the rest in the context of the story.
I’ve read a couple of novels by this author and she always tells a good story and presents a good picture of Australian life up north. If you like Australian rural romance and family relationships with a touch of history you should like this. I did.
September 20, 2014
The moment I read a Barbara Hannay book I know I'm in the hands of a master writer. The heroine Sally is getting over the death of her husband when she meets Luke. Their friends with benefits relationship becomes so much more as the story progresses. The sub story of Kitty is fascinating along with an unexpected twist. Loved this book and would well recommend it.
October 7, 2018
Another lovely story by Barbara Hannay with dual timelines in 1942 when the Americans were in Townsville helping with the war and Kitty meets a handsome pilot. And in the present when Kitty's grandson Luke is renovating her old homestead. Kitty tasks Sally with writing a story about the homestead in the hope of possibly setting her up with Luke. The secrets that start to become uncovered are easy to guess at, but it still makes for a lovely story.
September 8, 2014
Sally Piper is working as a freelance journalist, picking up what work she can find. She’s still in mourning for her husband, who died in an accident just over two years ago but her friends are convinced that it’s time for Sally to start living again. They want her to put herself out there a bit more, meet some new people. Against her better judgement she attends a ball in Charters Towers with a war theme and decides that the ball might make a good focus for a story for one of the country life magazines.
At the ball Sally meets Luke Fairburn and learns of his plans to restore his grandmother’s homestead. This is something Sally is interested in herself and she journeys out to Moonlight Plains to see the home and decides that it would also make a great story. Although sparks fly between Sally and Luke, she’s not quite ready yet – she can’t seem to let go of Josh and move on and find happiness.
Moonlight Plains has seen a lot in it’s time, including some war action when some Allied planes crashed on its land during the Second World War. Young Kitty Martin was home alone at the time and although terrified of what she might find, she hears the planes come down and heads out to investigate. What she discovers brings her the experience of the tragedy of war and heartbreak but also the promise of something beautiful.
Years later as Luke plans to unveil the new Moonlight Plains to the entire family, a deep secret looks like being exposed.
In recent years, a story that blends the contemporary with the historical has come to be one of my favourite types to read. I also really enjoyed Barbara Hannay’s two previous books surrounding the Fairburn family, Home Before Sundown and Zoe’s Muster and had been waiting eagerly for Luke’s story. The two stories blend together quite seamlessly here as we visit Townsville in 1942 and the Allied troops that are stationed there, perfectly placed for missions into Asia. Japan was looking towards Australia, keen to expand its territory and all that land sparsely populated must’ve been tempting. They’d already bombed Darwin and there were rumours of “the Brisbane line” where everything north of that city wouldn’t be defended. Kitty Martin was sent inland to Moonlight Plains, her great-uncle’s farm to keep her away from those flirtatious American soldiers….only to meet American soldiers when they crash their small crafts onto the property!
I loved Kitty’s story – in fact I could’ve read a whole book devoted to just her and her life both before and after WWII. She was strong and independent and hadn’t been cowed by her rather strict religious grandfather. There was plenty of romance in her story but also practicality and I found it very believable that it would play out the way in which it did. I also loved learning about the restoration of the old homestead. I watch too much lifestyle television and restoration shows or building projects, are some of my favourites so I was always really interested in everything Luke was doing and how it was all going to come together.
Which brings me to Sally and Luke! I already knew Luke so I had to get to know Sally and it was hard not to empathise with her. She was terribly young to have already lost a husband and the grief she was experiencing was still rather strong but there was also guilt too. Guilt that she could be attracted to Luke and want to act on it as well as I think, guilt that perhaps she and Luke had more in common than she’d had with her late husband Josh. Sally had an interest in old homes, she had wanted to buy a fixer upper herself (and had almost done so with the insurance money, only the guilt stopped her) whereas Josh had preferred a modern apartment for their home. He was a lawyer, so not a handyman type like Luke. Sally was the type of girl who would want to get her hands dirty and help as well, learning how to help brand and ear-tag cattle as well as pitch in with ideas for the homestead. They were so good together, it was obvious they just worked and Luke was definitely ready for something long term. Sally was different though, she definitely still had some things to work through. I was a little surprised at how angsty Luke was, he is quite brooding….but not unattractive!
Moonlight Plains has taken the rural romance genre and then gone one step further adding in a historical romance element as well that deals with the troubles of war and the beauty that can come out of such times. Both the 1942 story and the current day story work well both separately and together and I was equally invested in both. I think Barbara Hannay did a great job balancing them out and making sure that each story had the attention it deserved. I was equally connected to Kitty and Sally and their very different journeys toward happiness.
This one can be read as stand-alone but I would recommend picking up Home Before Sundown and then Zoe’s Muster beforehand just to really get familiar with the Fairburn family.
At the ball Sally meets Luke Fairburn and learns of his plans to restore his grandmother’s homestead. This is something Sally is interested in herself and she journeys out to Moonlight Plains to see the home and decides that it would also make a great story. Although sparks fly between Sally and Luke, she’s not quite ready yet – she can’t seem to let go of Josh and move on and find happiness.
Moonlight Plains has seen a lot in it’s time, including some war action when some Allied planes crashed on its land during the Second World War. Young Kitty Martin was home alone at the time and although terrified of what she might find, she hears the planes come down and heads out to investigate. What she discovers brings her the experience of the tragedy of war and heartbreak but also the promise of something beautiful.
Years later as Luke plans to unveil the new Moonlight Plains to the entire family, a deep secret looks like being exposed.
In recent years, a story that blends the contemporary with the historical has come to be one of my favourite types to read. I also really enjoyed Barbara Hannay’s two previous books surrounding the Fairburn family, Home Before Sundown and Zoe’s Muster and had been waiting eagerly for Luke’s story. The two stories blend together quite seamlessly here as we visit Townsville in 1942 and the Allied troops that are stationed there, perfectly placed for missions into Asia. Japan was looking towards Australia, keen to expand its territory and all that land sparsely populated must’ve been tempting. They’d already bombed Darwin and there were rumours of “the Brisbane line” where everything north of that city wouldn’t be defended. Kitty Martin was sent inland to Moonlight Plains, her great-uncle’s farm to keep her away from those flirtatious American soldiers….only to meet American soldiers when they crash their small crafts onto the property!
I loved Kitty’s story – in fact I could’ve read a whole book devoted to just her and her life both before and after WWII. She was strong and independent and hadn’t been cowed by her rather strict religious grandfather. There was plenty of romance in her story but also practicality and I found it very believable that it would play out the way in which it did. I also loved learning about the restoration of the old homestead. I watch too much lifestyle television and restoration shows or building projects, are some of my favourites so I was always really interested in everything Luke was doing and how it was all going to come together.
Which brings me to Sally and Luke! I already knew Luke so I had to get to know Sally and it was hard not to empathise with her. She was terribly young to have already lost a husband and the grief she was experiencing was still rather strong but there was also guilt too. Guilt that she could be attracted to Luke and want to act on it as well as I think, guilt that perhaps she and Luke had more in common than she’d had with her late husband Josh. Sally had an interest in old homes, she had wanted to buy a fixer upper herself (and had almost done so with the insurance money, only the guilt stopped her) whereas Josh had preferred a modern apartment for their home. He was a lawyer, so not a handyman type like Luke. Sally was the type of girl who would want to get her hands dirty and help as well, learning how to help brand and ear-tag cattle as well as pitch in with ideas for the homestead. They were so good together, it was obvious they just worked and Luke was definitely ready for something long term. Sally was different though, she definitely still had some things to work through. I was a little surprised at how angsty Luke was, he is quite brooding….but not unattractive!
Moonlight Plains has taken the rural romance genre and then gone one step further adding in a historical romance element as well that deals with the troubles of war and the beauty that can come out of such times. Both the 1942 story and the current day story work well both separately and together and I was equally invested in both. I think Barbara Hannay did a great job balancing them out and making sure that each story had the attention it deserved. I was equally connected to Kitty and Sally and their very different journeys toward happiness.
This one can be read as stand-alone but I would recommend picking up Home Before Sundown and then Zoe’s Muster beforehand just to really get familiar with the Fairburn family.
September 9, 2014
What a read! Thoroughly engrossing from start to finish. A story that will have you laughing one moment and in tears the next. The storyline is told through multiple character point of views with extensive fall out from life's events and traumas through three generations that draws the reader in with the stand out characters and their dilemma's and challenges they each face in the story. The author captures multiple emotions in each of the scenarios for the various characters and readers beware - there won't be a dry eye in the house.
With the story events ranging from 1942, when World War 2 affected Australia in more ways that one through to the year 2013. From one generation's perspective to the next, events that shock and delight.
Moonlight Plains by Barbara Hannay was one phenomenal, emotion charged read that did not disappoint and will have you emotionally wrecked and elated all at the same time. Some absolute magnificent writing by Barbara Hannay and from this reader, one brilliantly engrossing and entertaining read.
*ARC Received from the Publisher for an honest review
With the story events ranging from 1942, when World War 2 affected Australia in more ways that one through to the year 2013. From one generation's perspective to the next, events that shock and delight.
Moonlight Plains by Barbara Hannay was one phenomenal, emotion charged read that did not disappoint and will have you emotionally wrecked and elated all at the same time. Some absolute magnificent writing by Barbara Hannay and from this reader, one brilliantly engrossing and entertaining read.
*ARC Received from the Publisher for an honest review
January 13, 2015
Thoroughly enjoyed this story and the little snippets of past characters :) I really loved the two different time frames working seamlessly alongside each other and the historical elements. I love historical fiction and enjoyed reading about Townsville during the war (there has been plenty on Darwin in movies and novels, but not a lot on Townsville) and also how isolated country life was back in the 40's (no electricity, no telephone etc.)
Beautifully told and the attention to detail describing the homestead, the city during the war etc. meant the story played out wonderfully in my mind :)
Beautifully told and the attention to detail describing the homestead, the city during the war etc. meant the story played out wonderfully in my mind :)
September 22, 2014
There's an incredible sweetness and poignancy in this story in both the modern romance, and the historical romance. WWII in Townsville was really interesting and portrayed beautifully. Kitty and Ed's romance was gorgeous and I loved the fact that it endured even though they were apart. I love that you can love more than one person, deeply. For me, this love overshadowed Luke and Sally's relationship, although I enjoyed their story too.
August 17, 2014
Barbara Hannay has delivered another wonderful book with three different story threads all seamlessly woven together into a rich tapestry of life showing war torn Townsville and the modern day city. Her cast of characters are finely drawn and for me no-one does emotional punch quite like Barb Hannay.
October 2, 2014
I loved reading this story! The way the stories from 1942 were woven through was really well done and i loved the fact that this was based on aspects of Australia in WW2 that usually don't get much of a mention. I loved Luke and Sallys story, they were really believable and likable. I think this story is the best one yet!
October 12, 2017
Moonlight Plains by multi-award-winning author Barbara Hannay is an exquisitely crafted tale of love, loss, secrets and hope. Set in a small town in the outback of Australia, the novel explored the lives of its fascinating characters and how they cope with the ravages of war in 1942, and how it affects the lives of some in the present. Beautifully told through different threads but effortlessly knitted together into one rich tapestry of life, Moonlight Plains is a delightful romance with a contemporary edge but rooted in history.
The book begins in 2013 with Sally Piper still mourning the death of her husband Josh. Though her grief for josh was moving and a beautiful thing, everyone wanted that she should be over it as two and a half years was long enough, and that she can’t grieve for her husband forever. When she was persuaded to a ball with a wartime theme, she met Luke Fairburn who she found to be attractive and intriguing. And for Luke, Sally Piper was beautiful – a stunner. She had blown him away, bowled him over, and knocked him for six.
When Luke talked about his plans to renovate his gandmother’s house at Moonlight Plains, Sally was keen to have a look and the two spent one unforgettable night there. But feeling remorse at what happened, Sally retuned to Townsville. Unknown to the two of them, Sally and Luke have one thing in common – Kitty Martin. Kitty is Luke’s grandmother and Sally is Kitty’s “young friend.” It was Kitty’s dress that Sally wore at ball.
The story begins almost seventy years earlier in 1942 in Townsville. Kitty was nineteen years, living with her strict grandparents in Townsville. When American troops started arriving she was sent to Moonlight Plains to be with her widowed uncle. It was there in that quiet place her life turned upside –down when two American airmen Ed and Bobby, blown off course, crash-landed. The incident will leave an indelible imprint.
Seventy years later, now living out the remaining years of her life in a nursing home, Kitty’s past and present will collide as the secrets safely tucked inside Moonlight plains come tumbling out. Barbara Hannay’s story of love, loss, redemption and hope is beautifully is poignant yet delightful. With endearing characters traveling on a flowing storyline, Moonlight Plains is a thoroughly enjoyable read.
The book begins in 2013 with Sally Piper still mourning the death of her husband Josh. Though her grief for josh was moving and a beautiful thing, everyone wanted that she should be over it as two and a half years was long enough, and that she can’t grieve for her husband forever. When she was persuaded to a ball with a wartime theme, she met Luke Fairburn who she found to be attractive and intriguing. And for Luke, Sally Piper was beautiful – a stunner. She had blown him away, bowled him over, and knocked him for six.
When Luke talked about his plans to renovate his gandmother’s house at Moonlight Plains, Sally was keen to have a look and the two spent one unforgettable night there. But feeling remorse at what happened, Sally retuned to Townsville. Unknown to the two of them, Sally and Luke have one thing in common – Kitty Martin. Kitty is Luke’s grandmother and Sally is Kitty’s “young friend.” It was Kitty’s dress that Sally wore at ball.
The story begins almost seventy years earlier in 1942 in Townsville. Kitty was nineteen years, living with her strict grandparents in Townsville. When American troops started arriving she was sent to Moonlight Plains to be with her widowed uncle. It was there in that quiet place her life turned upside –down when two American airmen Ed and Bobby, blown off course, crash-landed. The incident will leave an indelible imprint.
Seventy years later, now living out the remaining years of her life in a nursing home, Kitty’s past and present will collide as the secrets safely tucked inside Moonlight plains come tumbling out. Barbara Hannay’s story of love, loss, redemption and hope is beautifully is poignant yet delightful. With endearing characters traveling on a flowing storyline, Moonlight Plains is a thoroughly enjoyable read.
December 6, 2014
Moonlight Plains by Barbara Hannay is a wonderful romantic novel based in Northern Queensland Australia and revolves around Sally and Luke, with a back story on Lukes Grandmother during the war. I found this book to be a really easy to get through, it was light and airy and the romance was very well written. The was just the right amount of romance and a little sex thrown in for good measure. The characters had genuine emotions and worked through their problems much the same as a normal human being which can be rare for novels of this genre. I really enjoyed reading Moonlight Plains, as I am not much of a romance reader it was a nice change and would consider reading more from this novelist. I would definetly recommend this as a great summer read, its light and breezy with a touch of history and sweet romance. I would like to thank The Reading Room and Penguin for my free copy, I was very grateful for the chance to read this book.
September 12, 2018
This is an easy reading, if somewhat predictable, book. Certain occurrences seem rather contrived, and I feel the author missed the opportunity to relate some deeper and more profound messages by instead taking the easier and more superficial route with her story. The portrayal of certain characters seems a bit inconsistent as well. Lukes's behavior toward the end, in particular, feels completely at odds with his established personality. I did, however, quite enjoy the Queensland setting.
Full review can be found on the blog: Great Reads and Tea Leaves
Full review can be found on the blog: Great Reads and Tea Leaves
November 19, 2014
Really enjoyed this book and how it included the different decades...Kitty's story from the war years and the mystery regarding Ed and Andy and finally getting some closure. Just sad that Kitty and Ed never got to meet again. It was nice to meet the characters Bella, Gabe, Zoe, and Mac again in this book, and also for Luke to be a main character this time :) It was nice to see him and Sally have a happy ending...really enjoy Barbara's story telling.
October 3, 2014
2 narratives, 2 timelines, both taking place at a homestead in North Queensland. Barbara Hannay writes about seconds chances, loves lost and found in Moonlight Plains, the third and possibly most compelling book in a loosely-connected series that begins with Zoe's Muster. Poignant, richly fulfilling and so very bittersweet.
September 15, 2014
Lovely, evocative interweaving of Townsville history (WW2) and contemporary Townsville with a romance between a features writer and Luke from Zoe's Muster.
I liked the identification of so many Townsville landmarks and streets including the post office tower and The Strand.
I liked the identification of so many Townsville landmarks and streets including the post office tower and The Strand.
December 31, 2014
Loved this simple sweet book set in the past - 1942 during the war in Townsville and the present - 2013 Stories intertwined with ease and all the characters were well fleshed out and believable. Reasonably predictable but I don't mind that when the outcome is so satisfying.
November 24, 2017
This was an enjoyable book with a great setting and interesting historical information. I enjoyed both the 1942 and current time story lines.
August 29, 2018
Love Love Loved it ! A beautiful story of two young people who find love instigated by the Grandmother of Luke Fairburn Kitty Maithson when Luke begins to restore Moonlight Plains a family farm near Townsville. In 1942 during World War two Kitty was sent to live at Moonlight Plains after an event her grandparents weren't to happy about. Two American soldiers crash land at Moonlight Plains bringing Heartbreak and Love for Kitty. 2013 Sally Pipper is healing after the death of her husband Josh when Kitty sends her to ball where she meets Luke and he takes her out to Moonlight Plains after were fall for each other but in the morning Sally tells him of her feelings of not been ready for a relationship. We see the two of them restore Moonlight Plains together begin a casual relationship together and Sally doing a story. Kitty secret is revealed as well.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 28, 2018
(I received a free copy of this book from Net Galley in exchange for an honest review.)
In 1942, as the Japanese sweep towards northern Australia and allied troops swarm into Townsville, Kitty Martin is sent inland to the safety of Moonlight Plains. But when two American airmen crash on the isolated property, she is forced to grow up fast, coming face to face with tragedy, with falling in love… and with heartbreak.
Years on, and Sally Piper, a young journalist, is sent out to Moonlight Plains to cover the story of a cattleman turned builder who is restoring his grandmother's old forgotten homestead. Sparks fly between them, but Sally is struggling to let go of the past, and Luke has his eyes fixed firmly on the future.
What they uncover together is a shocking secret that has been kept safe for more than seventy years. Now the entire family's happiness is at stake – or does the truth about the past hold a valuable lesson for the future?
Two dual narratives - one historical, one contemporary - takes the reader on a journey to Moonlight Plains. One story follows the story of Kitty, sent there at the start of WW2, and the love and heartbreak she experiences. The second, modern story, is about Sally and Luke - a reporter and her subject. Their story is a little less interesting but I always feel that in these dual narrative tales. The history always interests me more. Having said that, the contemporary story is perfectly fine. I just don't get as invested in modern romance stories.
As I said, the historical aspect to this story is its biggest positive for me. From the moment Kitty comes into contact with US airmen, Ed Langley and Bobby Kowalski, her story truly takes off into one of love found, love lost, heartbreak and secrets. Now, the blurb mentions a "shocking secret" - and I was true to a point - but the secret wasn't really hard to guess. Not that this is being sold as a mystery novel but I would have liked it to be a little more, I don't know, secretive???
As for the rest of the story, the contemporary love story was a little dull for me (not that it made that much of a difference in my thoughts of the book. However, if the historical story hadn't grabbed me, the review could have been far different!) and I didn't really feel for either Sally or Luke. I mean, I understood their stories and their motivations...I guess you could say I just didn't really like them. Not in the same way I liked Kitty. There was something about her that carried the story for me.
One thing I think I would have appreciated more was the approach to the style of this book. I found that the back-and-forth of the narrative made the story seem a little disjointed and allowed for the "secret" to be guessed easily. I would have preferred a "then-and-now" style. We could have got Kitty's story in one go, as well as Sally and Luke's (which may have made it more interesting), and the stuff we learned early on may have not been as memorable by the time we got the end of the book.
However, that sounds like a lot of negative but it truly isn't. This is a fabulous story - about love and loss, but as well as family and sacrifice. Set in a beautiful backdrop, this is a must read for fans of Australian fiction...
Paul
ARH
In 1942, as the Japanese sweep towards northern Australia and allied troops swarm into Townsville, Kitty Martin is sent inland to the safety of Moonlight Plains. But when two American airmen crash on the isolated property, she is forced to grow up fast, coming face to face with tragedy, with falling in love… and with heartbreak.
Years on, and Sally Piper, a young journalist, is sent out to Moonlight Plains to cover the story of a cattleman turned builder who is restoring his grandmother's old forgotten homestead. Sparks fly between them, but Sally is struggling to let go of the past, and Luke has his eyes fixed firmly on the future.
What they uncover together is a shocking secret that has been kept safe for more than seventy years. Now the entire family's happiness is at stake – or does the truth about the past hold a valuable lesson for the future?
Two dual narratives - one historical, one contemporary - takes the reader on a journey to Moonlight Plains. One story follows the story of Kitty, sent there at the start of WW2, and the love and heartbreak she experiences. The second, modern story, is about Sally and Luke - a reporter and her subject. Their story is a little less interesting but I always feel that in these dual narrative tales. The history always interests me more. Having said that, the contemporary story is perfectly fine. I just don't get as invested in modern romance stories.
As I said, the historical aspect to this story is its biggest positive for me. From the moment Kitty comes into contact with US airmen, Ed Langley and Bobby Kowalski, her story truly takes off into one of love found, love lost, heartbreak and secrets. Now, the blurb mentions a "shocking secret" - and I was true to a point - but the secret wasn't really hard to guess. Not that this is being sold as a mystery novel but I would have liked it to be a little more, I don't know, secretive???
As for the rest of the story, the contemporary love story was a little dull for me (not that it made that much of a difference in my thoughts of the book. However, if the historical story hadn't grabbed me, the review could have been far different!) and I didn't really feel for either Sally or Luke. I mean, I understood their stories and their motivations...I guess you could say I just didn't really like them. Not in the same way I liked Kitty. There was something about her that carried the story for me.
One thing I think I would have appreciated more was the approach to the style of this book. I found that the back-and-forth of the narrative made the story seem a little disjointed and allowed for the "secret" to be guessed easily. I would have preferred a "then-and-now" style. We could have got Kitty's story in one go, as well as Sally and Luke's (which may have made it more interesting), and the stuff we learned early on may have not been as memorable by the time we got the end of the book.
However, that sounds like a lot of negative but it truly isn't. This is a fabulous story - about love and loss, but as well as family and sacrifice. Set in a beautiful backdrop, this is a must read for fans of Australian fiction...
Paul
ARH
October 3, 2014
* 4.5 stars
The new direction that Australian Author Barbara Hannay has taken to interweave a wartime story with a contemporary rural romance in her latest release Moonlight Plains has thoroughly paid off. I was completely hooked from start to finish with the enchanting Moonlight Plains. The book successfully combines two poignant storyline and both have an equally lasting impact on the reader. The first, set in 2013, re-introduces Luke Fairburn, a character who appeared in Hannay’s previous two rural books, Zoe’s Muster and Home Before Sundown. Luke is the processes of renovating his Grandmother Kitty’s homestead Moonlight Plains. He attends at 1940’s ball and there he meets Sally Piper. Sally is a journalist who is covering a story featuring Luke’s renovation of his Grandmother’s homestead. Luke and Sally hit it off instantly but this new romance faces a few obstacles, which unfolds as the story progresses. Sally must overcome the grief over the death of her husband two years ago and Luke faces issues from his family’s past which threaten his future happiness. The novel then switches to 1942 Townsville as we meet Kitty, Luke’s Grandmother, as a nineteen year old girl. Kitty has been sent to live on her Uncle’s isolated cattle station, Moonlight Plains, for her own protection as the World War II begins to encroach on Australian shores. One night while her Uncle is out on a mustering trip, two planes crash land on her Uncle’s property. Kitty bravely faces her fears of the plane being from enemy lines and attempts to rescue the pilots. Her life changes the moment she meets Bobby Kowalski and Ed Langley, two American fighter pilots on their way back from New Guinea. This chance crash at Moonlight planes has far reaching repercussions for decades to come.
I loved this book for start to finish. I was already a firm fan of Barbara Hannay’s work after reading both her rural romances Zoe’s Muster and Home before Sundown last year, so when the Reading Room sent me a copy of this book for review I was thrilled to be offered the chance to read Moonlight Plains. The standout moment in this book is without doubt the wartime story about Kitty. It was truly a beautiful tale of love, loss, secrets and hope. The references to the wartime history of the area of Townsville was absolutely enthralling. It certainly opened my eyes up to issues I was unaware of, such as the bombings in the area, the amount of plane crashes and the impact of the invasion of the American Troops. Hannay has crafted an unforgettable tale of finding love in the present day to the enduring nature of wartime love. It is a book that will definitely stay with me long after reading.
I wish to thank the Reading Room and the Publisher, Penguin Australia for a copy of this book for review.
The new direction that Australian Author Barbara Hannay has taken to interweave a wartime story with a contemporary rural romance in her latest release Moonlight Plains has thoroughly paid off. I was completely hooked from start to finish with the enchanting Moonlight Plains. The book successfully combines two poignant storyline and both have an equally lasting impact on the reader. The first, set in 2013, re-introduces Luke Fairburn, a character who appeared in Hannay’s previous two rural books, Zoe’s Muster and Home Before Sundown. Luke is the processes of renovating his Grandmother Kitty’s homestead Moonlight Plains. He attends at 1940’s ball and there he meets Sally Piper. Sally is a journalist who is covering a story featuring Luke’s renovation of his Grandmother’s homestead. Luke and Sally hit it off instantly but this new romance faces a few obstacles, which unfolds as the story progresses. Sally must overcome the grief over the death of her husband two years ago and Luke faces issues from his family’s past which threaten his future happiness. The novel then switches to 1942 Townsville as we meet Kitty, Luke’s Grandmother, as a nineteen year old girl. Kitty has been sent to live on her Uncle’s isolated cattle station, Moonlight Plains, for her own protection as the World War II begins to encroach on Australian shores. One night while her Uncle is out on a mustering trip, two planes crash land on her Uncle’s property. Kitty bravely faces her fears of the plane being from enemy lines and attempts to rescue the pilots. Her life changes the moment she meets Bobby Kowalski and Ed Langley, two American fighter pilots on their way back from New Guinea. This chance crash at Moonlight planes has far reaching repercussions for decades to come.
I loved this book for start to finish. I was already a firm fan of Barbara Hannay’s work after reading both her rural romances Zoe’s Muster and Home before Sundown last year, so when the Reading Room sent me a copy of this book for review I was thrilled to be offered the chance to read Moonlight Plains. The standout moment in this book is without doubt the wartime story about Kitty. It was truly a beautiful tale of love, loss, secrets and hope. The references to the wartime history of the area of Townsville was absolutely enthralling. It certainly opened my eyes up to issues I was unaware of, such as the bombings in the area, the amount of plane crashes and the impact of the invasion of the American Troops. Hannay has crafted an unforgettable tale of finding love in the present day to the enduring nature of wartime love. It is a book that will definitely stay with me long after reading.
I wish to thank the Reading Room and the Publisher, Penguin Australia for a copy of this book for review.
January 28, 2015
Moonlight Plains by Barbara Hannay.
A beautiful and well written story originally set in 1942 when the Japanese troops sweep into Townsville in Far North Queensland. A young girl retreats to the nearby rural homestead and property on Moonlight Plains for safety where unusual events take place.
It's a story of a cattleman turned builder who sets out to restore his grandmother's old forgotten homestead with the goal being to renovate the homestead to its full outback Queensland glory.
The scenes switch from 1942 to 2013 as this intriguing story unfolds unravelling the past where innocent and true love take place in unexpected places.
It's about 'luck' and not letting it go and then it turning up when you least expect it.
If you love reading rural stories, this one's for you.
I loved Moonlight Plains by Barbara Hannay & highly recommend it. This was a book that I just couldn't put down and couldn't wait to hear what happened next.
A beautiful and well written story originally set in 1942 when the Japanese troops sweep into Townsville in Far North Queensland. A young girl retreats to the nearby rural homestead and property on Moonlight Plains for safety where unusual events take place.
It's a story of a cattleman turned builder who sets out to restore his grandmother's old forgotten homestead with the goal being to renovate the homestead to its full outback Queensland glory.
The scenes switch from 1942 to 2013 as this intriguing story unfolds unravelling the past where innocent and true love take place in unexpected places.
It's about 'luck' and not letting it go and then it turning up when you least expect it.
If you love reading rural stories, this one's for you.
I loved Moonlight Plains by Barbara Hannay & highly recommend it. This was a book that I just couldn't put down and couldn't wait to hear what happened next.
March 22, 2017
I received this book through a Kellogs Book promotion and it was a cracker from start to finish The wonderful glossy cover begs you to open the book and begin reading . I love these rural Australian books and this story is gripping as it also incorporates some WW2 interest which brings some American ties into the book .It is a cleverly woven tale which begins in 2013 when the reader is introduced to Sally and Luke. As the story unfolds we discover Luke's grandmother Kitty in a nursing home and the story then switches back to 1942 when Kitty was 19 years old and witnessed a plane crash which changed her life. It is easy to follow the story even although it does change time consistently and it seems to add to the momentum as the book draws to the end.
I loved the writing and it was a great plot . Anyone who enjoys a family saga will love this book . It is the first I have read by Barbara Hannay but I will be on the lookout for more .
I loved the writing and it was a great plot . Anyone who enjoys a family saga will love this book . It is the first I have read by Barbara Hannay but I will be on the lookout for more .
March 17, 2015
This is a really great story I loved the settings as in Townsville during world war 2 1942 and modern day 2013 the story spans a couple of generations and an old homestead Moonlight Plains and its restoration. From a time when there were lots of Americans in Townsville and planes coming down on cattle stations a young woman Kitty helps an American pilot and falls in love but life in 1942 is not the same as now and when Kitty's grandson Luke decides to restore the old homestead and meets journalist Sally another romance begins. This is a story that you will fall into and not want to put down I highly recommend this one.
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