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The Ironbark Promise
A page-turning new rural romance full of heart from the bestselling author of Wings Above the Mallee.
She plays to win—but could love cost her everything?
When a series of threats force fiercely independent lawyer Jemma Di Angelis to step away from her high-flying career, the last place she wants to be is her father's cottage near Settlers Bridge. But with her security threatened and her routine in tatters, she has little choice. She'll stay just long enough to plan her next move.
Laid-back local farmer Hamish MacKenzie has a roguish charm, a bad-boy reputation and an artistic soul he keeps carefully hidden. From the moment he meets Jemma, sparks fly—he sees a tightly wound snob and she sees a shallow womaniser.
But when Jemma finds herself in real danger, it's Hamish who steps in—unexpectedly gentle, infuriatingly protective and nothing like she imagined. As tangled secrets surface and loyalties are tested, Jemma must decide whether justice always follows the rules—and whether she's willing to risk giving her heart to a man who has made a habit of keeping his hidden.
The Ironbark Promise is a story of enemies to lovers, redemption and the unexpected places we find home.
She plays to win—but could love cost her everything?
When a series of threats force fiercely independent lawyer Jemma Di Angelis to step away from her high-flying career, the last place she wants to be is her father's cottage near Settlers Bridge. But with her security threatened and her routine in tatters, she has little choice. She'll stay just long enough to plan her next move.
Laid-back local farmer Hamish MacKenzie has a roguish charm, a bad-boy reputation and an artistic soul he keeps carefully hidden. From the moment he meets Jemma, sparks fly—he sees a tightly wound snob and she sees a shallow womaniser.
But when Jemma finds herself in real danger, it's Hamish who steps in—unexpectedly gentle, infuriatingly protective and nothing like she imagined. As tangled secrets surface and loyalties are tested, Jemma must decide whether justice always follows the rules—and whether she's willing to risk giving her heart to a man who has made a habit of keeping his hidden.
The Ironbark Promise is a story of enemies to lovers, redemption and the unexpected places we find home.
368 pages, Paperback
Published January 6, 2026
11 people are currently reading
69 people want to read
About the author
Leonie Kelsall
9 books136 followersThough fortunate to grow up in the South Australian country – initially on the beautiful Fleurieu Peninsula in a tiny town where the school had a total enrolment of only eleven students, and later on a sheep and wheat farm in the Murraylands - in typical teen fashion, Léonie couldn't wait to hit the bright lights of the big city when she graduated.
However, a couple of years working in various government departments, including the State History Trust and the Education Department, saw her longing to make her way back to the country.
Through a circuitous route (isn't that life?) she now finds herself splitting her time between her home and professional counselling practice in the beautiful Adelaide Hills and her childhood farm. She definitely has the best of both worlds!
And, speaking of doubling up, check out
LANEY KAYE
Léonie writes outback noir/romantic suspense, super hot contemporaries and fun erotic fantasy under this pen name.
However, a couple of years working in various government departments, including the State History Trust and the Education Department, saw her longing to make her way back to the country.
Through a circuitous route (isn't that life?) she now finds herself splitting her time between her home and professional counselling practice in the beautiful Adelaide Hills and her childhood farm. She definitely has the best of both worlds!
And, speaking of doubling up, check out
LANEY KAYE
Léonie writes outback noir/romantic suspense, super hot contemporaries and fun erotic fantasy under this pen name.
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Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews
November 18, 2025
Jemma Di Angelis is a lawyer in Adelaide, she extremely focused on her career and wants to become a partner in the firm. Jemma receives a threatening message, at first she dismisses it as kids mucking around and targeting her building and then another arrives. Jemma visits her dad Pierce and his girlfriend Samantha at their cottage near Settlers Bridge, to have a much needed break and reflect on what’s happening.
Hamish MacKenzie is a mechanic and helping his brother on the family farm, he has a reputation for being a ladies man and a bad boy. Hamish hides his artistic side, he can draw and plays the guitar and when he meets Jemma, he thinks she’s an uptight snob and she assumes he’s a shallow womanising Bogan.
Jemma believes in justice and the legal system, she advocates for her clients and defends them in the higher court, but she draws the line at not pointing out obvious flaws that will be noticed and paying people to keep quiet and breaking the law.
When Jemma finds herself in danger, and the situation quickly escalates and it's certainly not harmless, she turns to her dad for help and as he's always made her feel safe and oddly Hamish does as well. There’s much more to him than being a farmer and it’s time for Jemma to re-evaluate her attitude and sentiment towards him and stop ignoring the sparks and chemistry.
I received a copy of The Ironbark Promise by Léonie Kelsall from Allen & Unwin and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. I remember Hamish from when I read The Blue Gum Camp, about his brother Lachlan and girlfriend Charity and it was great catching up with them and others from Settlers Bridge.
Ms Kelsall latest novel is an enemies to lover’s romance, but it’s much more than that and it covers serious topics such as addiction, substance abuse, roofing, stalking and forms of controlling behaviour, sexism in the work place and feeling like every day you have to prove you’re worth, friendship and ties and living in a small country town.
My favourite quote was Hamish saying “Jemma was like an over strained fence wire, and ready to snap at any moment” and he was right and at him, before she saw his other side.
Five stars from me, I highly recommend and Léonie Kelsall continues to hold her ground as one of Australia’s best rural romance writers and consistently delivers a riveting plot.
Hamish MacKenzie is a mechanic and helping his brother on the family farm, he has a reputation for being a ladies man and a bad boy. Hamish hides his artistic side, he can draw and plays the guitar and when he meets Jemma, he thinks she’s an uptight snob and she assumes he’s a shallow womanising Bogan.
Jemma believes in justice and the legal system, she advocates for her clients and defends them in the higher court, but she draws the line at not pointing out obvious flaws that will be noticed and paying people to keep quiet and breaking the law.
When Jemma finds herself in danger, and the situation quickly escalates and it's certainly not harmless, she turns to her dad for help and as he's always made her feel safe and oddly Hamish does as well. There’s much more to him than being a farmer and it’s time for Jemma to re-evaluate her attitude and sentiment towards him and stop ignoring the sparks and chemistry.
I received a copy of The Ironbark Promise by Léonie Kelsall from Allen & Unwin and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. I remember Hamish from when I read The Blue Gum Camp, about his brother Lachlan and girlfriend Charity and it was great catching up with them and others from Settlers Bridge.
Ms Kelsall latest novel is an enemies to lover’s romance, but it’s much more than that and it covers serious topics such as addiction, substance abuse, roofing, stalking and forms of controlling behaviour, sexism in the work place and feeling like every day you have to prove you’re worth, friendship and ties and living in a small country town.
My favourite quote was Hamish saying “Jemma was like an over strained fence wire, and ready to snap at any moment” and he was right and at him, before she saw his other side.
Five stars from me, I highly recommend and Léonie Kelsall continues to hold her ground as one of Australia’s best rural romance writers and consistently delivers a riveting plot.
January 9, 2026
EXCERPT: Tracey's bangles clacked as she shook her wooden spoon at him, oblivious to the chocolate sauce splattering everywhere. 'You behave yourself Hamish MacKenzie. No wonder you've got a reputation.'
'Hey!' He pretended the accusation hadn't hit its mark. 'I only meant Jemma might want to come help with the clean-up in your backyard.' He suspected he might be playing with fire, teasing the uptight lawyer - but her abrasive attitude made the temptation too hard to resist. 'Why does no one believe I'm a reformed man?'
'Tigers and spots, love,' Tracey retorted. 'Or is that lions?'
'Leopards.' Tracey was a classic. And Jemma still hadn't spoken, just stared at him, coldly furious. He'd probably pushed it a bit too far, considering he'd only met her a day ago. He relented a little. 'Paper towel, Tracey?'
'Hasn't Lucy Tamberlani spoken to you about that? The trees, you know. We can't use paper towels anymore. Here.' Tracey pulled a hand towel from a drawer. The top had a knitted border added, so that it could be hung from a hook near the sink. Similar towels on the weekly CWA stalls had provided a fabric calendar throughout his childhood, the changing patterns heralding each season and event: spring flowers with bright yellow trim; Easter rabbits with pink and blue edging; Christmas trees and snowmen with festive red and green borders.
'Oh, I can't use that,' Jemma protested.
'Sure you can,' he said, taking the towel from Tracey, and moving in as though he intended to swipe the dirt from Jemma's pants. Along with her sneer, too, hopefully. Pierce was a decent bloke, yet his daughter was like an overstrained fence wire, ready to snap at any moment.
ABOUT 'THE IRONBARK PROMISE': When a series of threats force fiercely independent lawyer Jemma Di Angelis to step away from her high-flying career, the last place she wants to be is Settlers Bridge. But with her security threatened and her routine in tatters, she has little choice. She'll stay just long enough to plan her next move.
Laid-back local farmer Hamish MacKenzie has a roguish charm, a bad-boy reputation and an artistic soul he keeps carefully hidden. From the moment he meets Jemma, sparks fly—he sees an uptight city slicker and she sees a shallow womaniser.
But when Jemma finds herself in real danger, Hamish reveals a different side—unexpectedly gentle, infuriatingly protective and nothing like she imagined. As tangled secrets surface and loyalties are tested, Jemma must decide whether justice always follows the rules—and whether she's willing to risk giving her heart to a man who has made a habit of keeping his hidden.
MY THOUGHTS: Sheep farmer, mechanic and musician Hamish has spent years as a womaniser, but now that he has decided he wants more from a relationship than a one or two night stand, no one is letting him forget his past. Friend Pierce's daughter, Jemma, is not what he's looking for however and, although fate keeps throwing them together, the sparks that are flying are not of the romantic variety. They just pure and simple rub one another up the wrong way . . . until they both need help and turn to one another to provide it.
I liked Hamish from the start; Jemma took longer for me to warm to but eventually, once she got off her high city horse, she won me over. Underneath her arrogance, there is a heart. There's a fair bit of introspection by both characters as they try to sort out their emotions, a process hampered by other goings on in the small town of Settlers Bridge. These other goings on include drugs making an appearance in the town, stalking, coercive behaviour, workplace duplicity, legal and moral ethics and anonymous threats made against Jemma.
There's a lot of great dialogue in this novel - some of the verbal sparring between Hamish and Jemma is inspired! My favorite is when Hamish accuses Jemma of judging one of his friends harshly due to his appearance - 'Haven't you heard of not judging a book by its cover?' Her reply is absolutely brilliant and will be appreciated by all book lovers.
The Ironbark Promise is a great story. I enjoyed catching up with some characters from Kelsall's previous books also set in the Settlers Bridge area and look forward to visiting with them again. The Ironbark Promise blends drama with an unlikely romance to produce an exciting and charming read.
⭐⭐⭐.8
#TheIronbarkPromise #NetGalley
MEET THE AUTHOR: LÉONIE KELSALL Though fortunate to grow up in the South Australian country – initially on the beautiful Fleurieu Peninsula in a tiny town where the school had a total enrolment of only eleven students, and later on a sheep and wheat farm in the Murraylands - in typical teen fashion, Léonie couldn't wait to hit the bright lights of the big city when she graduated.
However, a couple of years working in various government departments, including the State History Trust and the Education Department, saw her longing to make her way back to the country.
Through a circuitous route (isn't that life?) she now finds herself splitting her time between her home and professional counselling practice in the beautiful Adelaide Hills and her childhood farm. She definitely has the best of both worlds!
DISCLOSURE: Thank you to Allen & Unwin for providing an e-ARC of The Ironbark Promise by Léonie Kelsall for review. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own personal opinions.
'Hey!' He pretended the accusation hadn't hit its mark. 'I only meant Jemma might want to come help with the clean-up in your backyard.' He suspected he might be playing with fire, teasing the uptight lawyer - but her abrasive attitude made the temptation too hard to resist. 'Why does no one believe I'm a reformed man?'
'Tigers and spots, love,' Tracey retorted. 'Or is that lions?'
'Leopards.' Tracey was a classic. And Jemma still hadn't spoken, just stared at him, coldly furious. He'd probably pushed it a bit too far, considering he'd only met her a day ago. He relented a little. 'Paper towel, Tracey?'
'Hasn't Lucy Tamberlani spoken to you about that? The trees, you know. We can't use paper towels anymore. Here.' Tracey pulled a hand towel from a drawer. The top had a knitted border added, so that it could be hung from a hook near the sink. Similar towels on the weekly CWA stalls had provided a fabric calendar throughout his childhood, the changing patterns heralding each season and event: spring flowers with bright yellow trim; Easter rabbits with pink and blue edging; Christmas trees and snowmen with festive red and green borders.
'Oh, I can't use that,' Jemma protested.
'Sure you can,' he said, taking the towel from Tracey, and moving in as though he intended to swipe the dirt from Jemma's pants. Along with her sneer, too, hopefully. Pierce was a decent bloke, yet his daughter was like an overstrained fence wire, ready to snap at any moment.
ABOUT 'THE IRONBARK PROMISE': When a series of threats force fiercely independent lawyer Jemma Di Angelis to step away from her high-flying career, the last place she wants to be is Settlers Bridge. But with her security threatened and her routine in tatters, she has little choice. She'll stay just long enough to plan her next move.
Laid-back local farmer Hamish MacKenzie has a roguish charm, a bad-boy reputation and an artistic soul he keeps carefully hidden. From the moment he meets Jemma, sparks fly—he sees an uptight city slicker and she sees a shallow womaniser.
But when Jemma finds herself in real danger, Hamish reveals a different side—unexpectedly gentle, infuriatingly protective and nothing like she imagined. As tangled secrets surface and loyalties are tested, Jemma must decide whether justice always follows the rules—and whether she's willing to risk giving her heart to a man who has made a habit of keeping his hidden.
MY THOUGHTS: Sheep farmer, mechanic and musician Hamish has spent years as a womaniser, but now that he has decided he wants more from a relationship than a one or two night stand, no one is letting him forget his past. Friend Pierce's daughter, Jemma, is not what he's looking for however and, although fate keeps throwing them together, the sparks that are flying are not of the romantic variety. They just pure and simple rub one another up the wrong way . . . until they both need help and turn to one another to provide it.
I liked Hamish from the start; Jemma took longer for me to warm to but eventually, once she got off her high city horse, she won me over. Underneath her arrogance, there is a heart. There's a fair bit of introspection by both characters as they try to sort out their emotions, a process hampered by other goings on in the small town of Settlers Bridge. These other goings on include drugs making an appearance in the town, stalking, coercive behaviour, workplace duplicity, legal and moral ethics and anonymous threats made against Jemma.
There's a lot of great dialogue in this novel - some of the verbal sparring between Hamish and Jemma is inspired! My favorite is when Hamish accuses Jemma of judging one of his friends harshly due to his appearance - 'Haven't you heard of not judging a book by its cover?' Her reply is absolutely brilliant and will be appreciated by all book lovers.
The Ironbark Promise is a great story. I enjoyed catching up with some characters from Kelsall's previous books also set in the Settlers Bridge area and look forward to visiting with them again. The Ironbark Promise blends drama with an unlikely romance to produce an exciting and charming read.
⭐⭐⭐.8
#TheIronbarkPromise #NetGalley
MEET THE AUTHOR: LÉONIE KELSALL Though fortunate to grow up in the South Australian country – initially on the beautiful Fleurieu Peninsula in a tiny town where the school had a total enrolment of only eleven students, and later on a sheep and wheat farm in the Murraylands - in typical teen fashion, Léonie couldn't wait to hit the bright lights of the big city when she graduated.
However, a couple of years working in various government departments, including the State History Trust and the Education Department, saw her longing to make her way back to the country.
Through a circuitous route (isn't that life?) she now finds herself splitting her time between her home and professional counselling practice in the beautiful Adelaide Hills and her childhood farm. She definitely has the best of both worlds!
DISCLOSURE: Thank you to Allen & Unwin for providing an e-ARC of The Ironbark Promise by Léonie Kelsall for review. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own personal opinions.
January 12, 2026
Leonie always delivers for me, so I jumped right into this one. I wasnt disappointed.
In this one there are many topics discussed, we have drug addictions, stalking, and animal activists. Topics which are significant in our society today.
What I loved about this book was the banter or should I say flirty bickering between Hamish and Jemma. The grumpy/sunshine trope is in this book . Jemma being the grump and Hamish being the sunshine. Loved Hamish's sense of humor.
Returning to Settlers Bridge with previous characters and topics, this book was like returning home.
Highly recommend to anyone who likes rural romance and small town romances.
In this one there are many topics discussed, we have drug addictions, stalking, and animal activists. Topics which are significant in our society today.
What I loved about this book was the banter or should I say flirty bickering between Hamish and Jemma. The grumpy/sunshine trope is in this book . Jemma being the grump and Hamish being the sunshine. Loved Hamish's sense of humor.
Returning to Settlers Bridge with previous characters and topics, this book was like returning home.
Highly recommend to anyone who likes rural romance and small town romances.
January 14, 2026
⭐️4 Stars⭐️
The Ironbark Promise by Leonie Kelsall is the latest offering by talented author Leonie Kelsall and it was wonderful to take a trip back to Settlers Bridge once again for book #9 of the series. I love a mystery and this story had both mystery and romance.
Our main characters are career driven Adelaide city Lawyer Jemma who is quite feisty and country farmer/mechanic Hamish who comes with a bad boy reputation. I was keen to see a romantic relationship develop between Jemma and Hamish. The side characters in the story are fabulous and I really enjoyed all their interactions!
When Jemma find herself in danger after receiving threats she retreats to Settlers Bridge to stay with her father Pierce and his partner Samantha. When she meets Hamish she doesn’t fall for his charm initially but they seem to enjoy their sparring banter with each other, both giving as good as they get.
There are serious themes of stalking, drug abuse and roofing in this book.
You can easily read this as a standalone, it’s another fabulous read from Leonie with a feel good vibe of rural community delightfulness and plenty of drama.
Publication Date 06 January 2026
Publisher Allen & Unwin Australia
Thank you so much Allen & Unwin for a copy of the book.
The Ironbark Promise by Leonie Kelsall is the latest offering by talented author Leonie Kelsall and it was wonderful to take a trip back to Settlers Bridge once again for book #9 of the series. I love a mystery and this story had both mystery and romance.
Our main characters are career driven Adelaide city Lawyer Jemma who is quite feisty and country farmer/mechanic Hamish who comes with a bad boy reputation. I was keen to see a romantic relationship develop between Jemma and Hamish. The side characters in the story are fabulous and I really enjoyed all their interactions!
When Jemma find herself in danger after receiving threats she retreats to Settlers Bridge to stay with her father Pierce and his partner Samantha. When she meets Hamish she doesn’t fall for his charm initially but they seem to enjoy their sparring banter with each other, both giving as good as they get.
There are serious themes of stalking, drug abuse and roofing in this book.
You can easily read this as a standalone, it’s another fabulous read from Leonie with a feel good vibe of rural community delightfulness and plenty of drama.
Publication Date 06 January 2026
Publisher Allen & Unwin Australia
Thank you so much Allen & Unwin for a copy of the book.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
We're back in Settler's Bridge, this time it's laid back farmer Hamish Mackenzie's turn in the spotlight. Even though he has a bit of a bad boy reputation, Hamish has a heart of gold. All he ever wants is to find someone special, but it's a bit of slim pickings out in the country.
Jemma Di Angelis is a lawyer, one who is extremely career-driven. Ever since she joined her current Adelaide law firm as a clerk, she's been striving for the coveted partner position. However, Jemma is dealing with a series of direct threats, which may be connected to her latest tough case.
In an attempt to get away from the stress, Jemma retreats from Adelaide to visit her father, Pierce and his partner, Sam. The peacefulness of Settler's Bridge soon works its magic, even though Jem initially resists the charm.
When she first meets Hamish, sparks fly. There are clashes of personalities and opinions, which lead to some pretty spectacular verbal sparring! They simply cannot stand each other-yet when Jemma lands herself in danger, Hamish is the first to be by her side. Suddenly, he displays a different side- unexpectedly gentle, considerate and protective- something that Jemma can totally get on board with.
Now, she faces a huge dilemma. Her man or her career? Should she risk everything that she's worked for, even though there are no personal benefits, for a chance of love and happiness?
Sometimes all you need is a cosy read and Leonie knows how to deliver. I love the Settler's Bridge series and I need to really catch up on it! This can be read as a standalone easily, no previous knowledge is needed. Good old-fashioned storytelling with a bit of romance, country and community charm and just to shake things up, some pretty heavy drama.
Another delightful read by Leonie! Thank you to Allen & Unwin for gifting me a copy to read and review.
4.75 🌟
Jemma Di Angelis is a lawyer, one who is extremely career-driven. Ever since she joined her current Adelaide law firm as a clerk, she's been striving for the coveted partner position. However, Jemma is dealing with a series of direct threats, which may be connected to her latest tough case.
In an attempt to get away from the stress, Jemma retreats from Adelaide to visit her father, Pierce and his partner, Sam. The peacefulness of Settler's Bridge soon works its magic, even though Jem initially resists the charm.
When she first meets Hamish, sparks fly. There are clashes of personalities and opinions, which lead to some pretty spectacular verbal sparring! They simply cannot stand each other-yet when Jemma lands herself in danger, Hamish is the first to be by her side. Suddenly, he displays a different side- unexpectedly gentle, considerate and protective- something that Jemma can totally get on board with.
Now, she faces a huge dilemma. Her man or her career? Should she risk everything that she's worked for, even though there are no personal benefits, for a chance of love and happiness?
Sometimes all you need is a cosy read and Leonie knows how to deliver. I love the Settler's Bridge series and I need to really catch up on it! This can be read as a standalone easily, no previous knowledge is needed. Good old-fashioned storytelling with a bit of romance, country and community charm and just to shake things up, some pretty heavy drama.
Another delightful read by Leonie! Thank you to Allen & Unwin for gifting me a copy to read and review.
4.75 🌟
January 4, 2026
The Ironbark Promise by Leonie Kelsall is another wonderfully absorbing rural romance that had me hooked from the very beginning.
Jemma Di Angelis is a strong, independent heroine who finds herself forced into a situation she never wanted — a temporary stay in Settlers Bridge while her carefully controlled city life unravels. Her journey, shaped by unexpected danger and emotional vulnerability, is compelling and easy to invest in. Hamish MacKenzie is the perfect counterbalance: laid-back, charming, and initially easy to misjudge, but with depth and sensitivity that reveal themselves as the story unfolds.
The chemistry between Jemma and Hamish develops naturally, with just the right mix of tension, warmth and emotional pull. The rural setting is beautifully done, adding richness to the story while allowing the characters to truly shine.
Leonie Kelsall has a gift for creating relatable characters and immersive worlds, and this book is no exception. I’ve yet to read a novel by her that I haven’t thoroughly enjoyed, and her new releases are always an automatic read for me.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Jemma Di Angelis is a strong, independent heroine who finds herself forced into a situation she never wanted — a temporary stay in Settlers Bridge while her carefully controlled city life unravels. Her journey, shaped by unexpected danger and emotional vulnerability, is compelling and easy to invest in. Hamish MacKenzie is the perfect counterbalance: laid-back, charming, and initially easy to misjudge, but with depth and sensitivity that reveal themselves as the story unfolds.
The chemistry between Jemma and Hamish develops naturally, with just the right mix of tension, warmth and emotional pull. The rural setting is beautifully done, adding richness to the story while allowing the characters to truly shine.
Leonie Kelsall has a gift for creating relatable characters and immersive worlds, and this book is no exception. I’ve yet to read a novel by her that I haven’t thoroughly enjoyed, and her new releases are always an automatic read for me.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
January 12, 2026
So nice to be back in Settlers Bridge. Another perfect story dealing with so many things. Now we wait 🙏 for the next. 100 + ⭐️⭐️⭐️
January 7, 2026
4.5 ⭐️
The story centers around laid-back farmer Hamish MacKenzie and high-flying lawyer Jemma Di Angelis.
A series of threats have forced Jemma to stay with her father and his partner Samantha in Settlers Bridge. When she crosses paths with Hamish she sees a shallow womanizer, while he see an uptight city slicker! The verbal sparring, banter and slow-burn between the two was so good!
While this is a fabulous rural romance, I also really enjoyed the side stories of career competition, drug use, stalking and community spirit.
Kelsall is master at capturing the heart and essence of small town communities. Being back in Settlers Bridge feels like coming home to friends. The warmth, the connection to the land and lovable characters leaves you wanting more long after reading the last page.
The story centers around laid-back farmer Hamish MacKenzie and high-flying lawyer Jemma Di Angelis.
A series of threats have forced Jemma to stay with her father and his partner Samantha in Settlers Bridge. When she crosses paths with Hamish she sees a shallow womanizer, while he see an uptight city slicker! The verbal sparring, banter and slow-burn between the two was so good!
While this is a fabulous rural romance, I also really enjoyed the side stories of career competition, drug use, stalking and community spirit.
Kelsall is master at capturing the heart and essence of small town communities. Being back in Settlers Bridge feels like coming home to friends. The warmth, the connection to the land and lovable characters leaves you wanting more long after reading the last page.
January 11, 2026
Loved Hamish and Jemma’s story!
Always like a trip home when I pick up a Settlers Bridge book, catching up with all
My old friends and meeting new ones!
Like a warm hug, with a bit of relief nance thrown in for good measure!
Always like a trip home when I pick up a Settlers Bridge book, catching up with all
My old friends and meeting new ones!
Like a warm hug, with a bit of relief nance thrown in for good measure!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Once again Leonie Kelsall has brought out another book that takes us on a journey of finding oneself and following what we believe others want for us.
Jemma, a lawyer in Adelaide finds she is being asked to do something she doesn’t like. Receiving threats also escalates her entire being. But going to see her Father, Pierce and his partner Sam, allows her see exactly what is going on. Although Jemma is independent, she sees the opposite to her in Hamish, who is laidback and artistic.
This book takes the reader into a deeper connection with the characters, how they interact with each other and the community that provide refuge.
This was 5 ***** review from me.
Jemma, a lawyer in Adelaide finds she is being asked to do something she doesn’t like. Receiving threats also escalates her entire being. But going to see her Father, Pierce and his partner Sam, allows her see exactly what is going on. Although Jemma is independent, she sees the opposite to her in Hamish, who is laidback and artistic.
This book takes the reader into a deeper connection with the characters, how they interact with each other and the community that provide refuge.
This was 5 ***** review from me.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Another fabulous story from Leonie Kelsall, we are back in Settlers Bridge and in this one will Hamish get his HEA, I really love Hamish and have seen him through all of the stories and have been cheering him on but will a new-comer to town be the one?
Jemma Di Angelis is a lawyer and barrister she works hard and is keen to make partner in the practice that she works at in Adelaide, her father Pierce lives in Settlers Bridge with his partner Sam, but when she starts getting threatening notes her father wants her at his home to keep her safe, to say that Jemma is fiercely independent is an understatement she learnt thought the years of living with her mother to make plans with her life and changing them is not good but she agrees to come for a short stay to make new plans.
Hamish MacKenzie is farmer and mechanic he has a reputation that has grown with him in the town, he is artistic and a rogue and loved by everyone but he still hasn’t found the one, but when he meets feisty Jemma at the new Turkish restaurant in town the sparks fly she comes across as strong willed and opinionated.
But they seem to be running into each other more and more and the banter between them is so good and as they get to know each other they see the good in each other and when Jemma is in danger it is Hamish who is there for her, could they have a life together, it will be a big move for either one of them but when hearts are involved they are willing to take that chance.
This is a beautiful story, I loved Hamish and Jemma the witty banter between them is so good and had me cheering them on as they journey to a HEA was filled with ups and downs, catching up with friends I have met in previous stories was wonderful. MS Kelsall has taken on some issues that are relevant in today’s lives addiction stalking to name a couple and done it so well. I loved this one and I do highly recommend it and I really am looking forward to another trip to Settlers Bridge.
My thanks to Allen & Unwin for my copy to read and review.
Jemma Di Angelis is a lawyer and barrister she works hard and is keen to make partner in the practice that she works at in Adelaide, her father Pierce lives in Settlers Bridge with his partner Sam, but when she starts getting threatening notes her father wants her at his home to keep her safe, to say that Jemma is fiercely independent is an understatement she learnt thought the years of living with her mother to make plans with her life and changing them is not good but she agrees to come for a short stay to make new plans.
Hamish MacKenzie is farmer and mechanic he has a reputation that has grown with him in the town, he is artistic and a rogue and loved by everyone but he still hasn’t found the one, but when he meets feisty Jemma at the new Turkish restaurant in town the sparks fly she comes across as strong willed and opinionated.
But they seem to be running into each other more and more and the banter between them is so good and as they get to know each other they see the good in each other and when Jemma is in danger it is Hamish who is there for her, could they have a life together, it will be a big move for either one of them but when hearts are involved they are willing to take that chance.
This is a beautiful story, I loved Hamish and Jemma the witty banter between them is so good and had me cheering them on as they journey to a HEA was filled with ups and downs, catching up with friends I have met in previous stories was wonderful. MS Kelsall has taken on some issues that are relevant in today’s lives addiction stalking to name a couple and done it so well. I loved this one and I do highly recommend it and I really am looking forward to another trip to Settlers Bridge.
My thanks to Allen & Unwin for my copy to read and review.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Jemma Di Angelis was a career focused lawyer based with a big firm in Adelaide. She and her equal in the business, Rohan, were both aiming for partnership with Gerard, and were working a serious case together. But Rohan was hiding things from Jemma. And then she began to receive threatening notes. Two at home, then the night she was eating dinner in the restaurant owned by her Nonno and Nonna, a brick with a note attached was flung through the plate glass window. When Jemma revealed what had been happening, she was whisked away to her father's cottage near Settlers Bridge, where she worked from home for awhile.
Hamish MacKenzie was a sheep farmer, working the property with his brother Lachlan, and when he met Jemma the first time, sparks flew - and not in a good way. She was prickly, never smiled, and was always right. That didn't bother Hamish though. As he came to know Jemma, he also tried to protect her. But there was more going on in Settlers Bridge than they'd like, and he was trying to fix that as well. What would be the outcome between a city girl, and a laid-back farmer?
The Ironbark Promise is another wonderful rural romance by Aussie author Leonie Kelsall which I enjoyed. With conflicting emotions and naive, easily led youngsters, there's a lot going on in Ms Kelsall's latest novel. But it all came together nicely in the end. Recommended.
With thanks to Allen & Unwin & NetGalley for my ARC to read and review.
Hamish MacKenzie was a sheep farmer, working the property with his brother Lachlan, and when he met Jemma the first time, sparks flew - and not in a good way. She was prickly, never smiled, and was always right. That didn't bother Hamish though. As he came to know Jemma, he also tried to protect her. But there was more going on in Settlers Bridge than they'd like, and he was trying to fix that as well. What would be the outcome between a city girl, and a laid-back farmer?
The Ironbark Promise is another wonderful rural romance by Aussie author Leonie Kelsall which I enjoyed. With conflicting emotions and naive, easily led youngsters, there's a lot going on in Ms Kelsall's latest novel. But it all came together nicely in the end. Recommended.
With thanks to Allen & Unwin & NetGalley for my ARC to read and review.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Another delightful foray into the characters of Settlers Bridge, don’t worry if you haven’t read any of the previous books, each book can absolutely be read as a stand alone.
Jemma is a young lawyer and striving to become a partner of the firm she works in. She is given a case to share with Rohan, the nephew of the firm’s Boss and the understanding is that one will become partner once over. But Rohan is not always upfront with his communication and it seems that over the last few weeks Jemma has been receiving some threatening notes.
Jemma is talked into coming up for a while to Settler’s Bridge where her father Pierce resides (his story is an earlier book) and there she finds her tightly controlled life become slightly out of control, especially in the company of Hamish, can he live his previous reputation down?
Loved the verbal sparring between Jemma and Hamish and there are a few extra threads of community storyline’s that add to the book.
As in most of these genre of books we all know where things will end up but for really for me, it is all about the journey and this one is a thoroughly enjoyable one at that. A great holiday read when you want a little bit of verbal sparring, mystery, and community interaction with some unique characters.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for a copy to read.
Jemma is a young lawyer and striving to become a partner of the firm she works in. She is given a case to share with Rohan, the nephew of the firm’s Boss and the understanding is that one will become partner once over. But Rohan is not always upfront with his communication and it seems that over the last few weeks Jemma has been receiving some threatening notes.
Jemma is talked into coming up for a while to Settler’s Bridge where her father Pierce resides (his story is an earlier book) and there she finds her tightly controlled life become slightly out of control, especially in the company of Hamish, can he live his previous reputation down?
Loved the verbal sparring between Jemma and Hamish and there are a few extra threads of community storyline’s that add to the book.
As in most of these genre of books we all know where things will end up but for really for me, it is all about the journey and this one is a thoroughly enjoyable one at that. A great holiday read when you want a little bit of verbal sparring, mystery, and community interaction with some unique characters.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for a copy to read.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
"The Ironbark Promise"
by Leonie Kelsall
In this captivating Australian tale, Leonie Kelsall weaves an inspiring enemies-to-lovers story that showcases the power of love and connection through engaging characters and an intriguing plot.
Due to a series of threatening incidents, the fiercely independent lawyer Jemma Di Angelis is forced to abandon her successful career in Adelaide, a city bustling with opportunity. Reluctantly, she retreats to the last place she ever wanted to be: her father’s quaint cottage nestled near the serene Settlers Bridge, a small and sleepy town that feels worlds away from her former life.
In this rustic setting, she crosses paths with Hamish MacKenzie, a local farmer and mechanic whose laid-back demeanour belies a deeper complexity. With his roguish charm and a reputation as a bad boy, Hamish hides an artistic soul that only a few glimpse. From their first encounter, the air between them is electric—while Hamish sees Jemma as a tightly wound, aloof snob, she perceives him as nothing more than a superficial womaniser. Little do they know, their initial impressions will spark a journey of unexpected connection and self-discovery.
by Leonie Kelsall
In this captivating Australian tale, Leonie Kelsall weaves an inspiring enemies-to-lovers story that showcases the power of love and connection through engaging characters and an intriguing plot.
Due to a series of threatening incidents, the fiercely independent lawyer Jemma Di Angelis is forced to abandon her successful career in Adelaide, a city bustling with opportunity. Reluctantly, she retreats to the last place she ever wanted to be: her father’s quaint cottage nestled near the serene Settlers Bridge, a small and sleepy town that feels worlds away from her former life.
In this rustic setting, she crosses paths with Hamish MacKenzie, a local farmer and mechanic whose laid-back demeanour belies a deeper complexity. With his roguish charm and a reputation as a bad boy, Hamish hides an artistic soul that only a few glimpse. From their first encounter, the air between them is electric—while Hamish sees Jemma as a tightly wound, aloof snob, she perceives him as nothing more than a superficial womaniser. Little do they know, their initial impressions will spark a journey of unexpected connection and self-discovery.
January 13, 2026
Set mostly in the fictitious town of Settlers Bridge near the Murray River in rural South Australia, The Ironbark Promise reintroduces many characters who have featured in earlier books by Leonie Kelsall. I felt immediately at home as a result, while the author’s fabulous imagery created scenes that I could clearly see in my mind’s eye. This story is very much one of opposites attracting as it pairs stitched-up Adelaide barrister Jemma di Angelis with devil-may-care farmer come mechnic come artist and musician Hamish McKenzie. Neither had planned on an attraction becoming anything more than a passing interest and, in fact, at their first meeting they each developed a strong mutual dislike. Unfortunately for them, the witty banter that ensues at later meetings and the irritating physical attraction that flares with every touch means that their plans are likely to be scarpered. As the romance blossoms, Jemma is facing problems with a stalker, whose messages are becoming increasingly concerning. Paired with a difficult case and a colleague who is hampering her efforts to investigate her client and build a case, this is impacting on her health and stress levels. I loved the varius threads that are woven through this novel. I loved the characters and of course, I loved the setting. This has been an interesting and compelling story and I hope that Leonie Kelsall will bring me back to Settlers Bridge for future stories.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Big thanks to Allen & Unwin for sending us a copy to read and review.
Small communities can bring people together that would never have crossed paths in their day to day lives.
The joy of finding common ground when lifestyle, perspective and career are completely different adds a juxtaposition to any plot.
Settlers Bridge is about to welcome a new comer.
Jemma is a lawyer from the city and is only in the town long enough to complete what she had to.
Meeting Hamish was not a particular highlight.
Hamish is laid back and works as a mechanic and is a farmer.
His true colours and big heart is not exposed.
Danger and threats shadow Jemma and a retreat back to Settlers Bridge is a safe option.
Hamish steps up and a protective side shows the calibre of his persona. Circumstance creating a spark that might enhance both their lives.
Untoward politics and behaviour in the law firm and an element of animal activism play out in the peripheral and mesh two lives together.
These details are a standout feature and trademark depth that enhances rural fiction.
The thawing of the heart and the aligned chemicals of the brain make for a joyful journey.
Small communities can bring people together that would never have crossed paths in their day to day lives.
The joy of finding common ground when lifestyle, perspective and career are completely different adds a juxtaposition to any plot.
Settlers Bridge is about to welcome a new comer.
Jemma is a lawyer from the city and is only in the town long enough to complete what she had to.
Meeting Hamish was not a particular highlight.
Hamish is laid back and works as a mechanic and is a farmer.
His true colours and big heart is not exposed.
Danger and threats shadow Jemma and a retreat back to Settlers Bridge is a safe option.
Hamish steps up and a protective side shows the calibre of his persona. Circumstance creating a spark that might enhance both their lives.
Untoward politics and behaviour in the law firm and an element of animal activism play out in the peripheral and mesh two lives together.
These details are a standout feature and trademark depth that enhances rural fiction.
The thawing of the heart and the aligned chemicals of the brain make for a joyful journey.
December 30, 2025
I love a good Australian rural romance, especially when there’s some mystery thrown in. This book had both of those things. With lawyer Jemma heading to Settler’s Bridge where her father lives and meeting Hamish, who is nothing like her as he’s arty and had a bad boy reputation. There was the mystery due to Jemma being threatened and not having any idea who was behind the attacks towards her and her family along with the slow build up of the love story between Jemma and Hamish. The side characters stories built more to the overall story which I really enjoyed and helped build the characters of both Jemma and Hamish.
Thanks to NetGalley and Allen & Unwin for the advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. This book is due to be released on January 6, 2026.
Thanks to NetGalley and Allen & Unwin for the advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. This book is due to be released on January 6, 2026.
November 27, 2025
This was my first book by Leonie Kelsall so I didn't have any expectations whatsoever.
I found this to be an easy read, with well developed characters and an interesting storyline.
Lots of topics are covered here, including DV, drug addiction and stalking, to name but a few, and all are handled in a sensitive way.
I didn't want to put this down to attend to real life matters and will certainly be keeping my eyes open for back issues of Leonie's books and any future releases.
Thank you to NetGalley and Allen & Unwin for the digital ARC. All opinions are my own.
I found this to be an easy read, with well developed characters and an interesting storyline.
Lots of topics are covered here, including DV, drug addiction and stalking, to name but a few, and all are handled in a sensitive way.
I didn't want to put this down to attend to real life matters and will certainly be keeping my eyes open for back issues of Leonie's books and any future releases.
Thank you to NetGalley and Allen & Unwin for the digital ARC. All opinions are my own.
January 17, 2026
This was an easy quick read, the storyline is great and I love the setting and characters.
I love a heartwarming and engaging story and this delivers that.
Thanks to NetGalley and to the publisher Allen & Unwin for the ARC.
I love a heartwarming and engaging story and this delivers that.
Thanks to NetGalley and to the publisher Allen & Unwin for the ARC.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Loved it!
Leonie has written another meaningful rural romance.
Full review to follow shortly
Leonie has written another meaningful rural romance.
Full review to follow shortly
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