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Wagtail Ridge #3
Safe Haven at Wagtail Ridge
The matchmakers of the Wagtail Ridge Knitting Club return - with a new couple in their sights. A moving story about finding and accepting love from the award-winning author of The Library at Wagtail Ridge.
Anna Prentiss, the town vet, keeps herself emotionally distant from everyone. Badly scarred in an accident, she believes she will never be loved. But the matchmakers of the Knitting Club disagree.
Firefighter Justin Turner is building a volunteer fire service to protect the town during the bushfire season. But Justin and his identical twin brother, Ben, face an unexpected and rocky reunion when their estranged mother crashes back into their orbit.
Justin doesn't see Anna's scars - only her beauty and strength. But his attempt at a romantic dinner goes horribly wrong, and he begins to understand how easy it is to be unintentionally cruel - a lesson he should apply to his own past with his mother.
When fate forces both Anna and Justin to confront their fears, they see the chance of a future together. But as a raging bushfire threatens Wagtail Ridge, will this newfound hope be reduced to ash before they can take the chance?
PRAISE FOR JANET
'The Library at Wagtail Ridge is a beautiful book that is a passionate tribute to the libraries, librarians and mobile library operations ... an earnest and utterly delightful read.' - Mrs B's Book Reviews
'The Library at Wagtail Ridge is a captivating story of love, family and belonging that ticks all the boxes for a sweet summer read.' - Better Reading
'This novel just hums along gracefully and effortlessly with scenarios and solutions we can all relate to in one way or another. The importance of friendships, family support and community spirit' - Cindy L. Spear
Anna Prentiss, the town vet, keeps herself emotionally distant from everyone. Badly scarred in an accident, she believes she will never be loved. But the matchmakers of the Knitting Club disagree.
Firefighter Justin Turner is building a volunteer fire service to protect the town during the bushfire season. But Justin and his identical twin brother, Ben, face an unexpected and rocky reunion when their estranged mother crashes back into their orbit.
Justin doesn't see Anna's scars - only her beauty and strength. But his attempt at a romantic dinner goes horribly wrong, and he begins to understand how easy it is to be unintentionally cruel - a lesson he should apply to his own past with his mother.
When fate forces both Anna and Justin to confront their fears, they see the chance of a future together. But as a raging bushfire threatens Wagtail Ridge, will this newfound hope be reduced to ash before they can take the chance?
PRAISE FOR JANET
'The Library at Wagtail Ridge is a beautiful book that is a passionate tribute to the libraries, librarians and mobile library operations ... an earnest and utterly delightful read.' - Mrs B's Book Reviews
'The Library at Wagtail Ridge is a captivating story of love, family and belonging that ticks all the boxes for a sweet summer read.' - Better Reading
'This novel just hums along gracefully and effortlessly with scenarios and solutions we can all relate to in one way or another. The importance of friendships, family support and community spirit' - Cindy L. Spear
- GenresRomance
304 pages, Paperback
Published December 30, 2025
5 people are currently reading
42 people want to read
About the author
Janet Gover
24 books112 followersJanet Gover was born in Melbourne, Australia. When she was very small, her family moved to a small country town in Queensland. She studied Journalism and Politics at Queensland University. She went on to forge a path in television journalism, she worked as a reporter and producer of news and other factual TV programmes in Australia, Hong Kong and the UK. Today matched with a Englishman, she lives in West London and works as a consultant, implementing high end digital systems in TV stations and production facilities in Europe, Asia and the Middle East.
Janet Gover published her first short story, called The Last Dragon, in 2002, and since then she published some short stories. In 2007 she won the Romantic Novelists' Association's Elizabeth Goudge Trophy, and now she is part of the RNA's Committee.. She published her first romance novel in 2009.
Janet Gover published her first short story, called The Last Dragon, in 2002, and since then she published some short stories. In 2007 she won the Romantic Novelists' Association's Elizabeth Goudge Trophy, and now she is part of the RNA's Committee.. She published her first romance novel in 2009.
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Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews
January 9, 2026
EXCERPT: A flash of heat and fire almost knocked him off his feet as, behind him, the uppermost branches of a tree exploded in flames. He started running awkwardly in his heavy boots and protective gear.
'Turn them around and get them out of here.' he shouted over the roar of the fire.
The other firefighter must have heard, or seen the danger and understood. He raised an arm to acknowledge Justin's instruction and darted towards the cars at the back of the line, signaling for them to turn and go back the way they had come. Justin did the same to those cars at the head of the line, closest to the flames.
About halfway along the line, a woman was desperately trying to start her car. The engine coughed and kicked and failed. She tried again. And again. Tears were streaming down her face as Justin reached her and her hands were shaking so badly she could barely grip the steering wheel.
'Leave it,' he commanded as he pulled her door open. 'Come with me.'
The woman didn't move. She sat staring with wild eyes at the leaping flames drawing closer with every second. Justin reached into the car and grabbed her arm. As quickly as he could, he pulled her from behind the wheel. The frozen terror on her face remained, but she followed his directions as he urged her towards the next vehicle, which was starting to pull away.
He flagged the car down and opened a rear door. 'Take her and get out of here as fast as you can.'
'Right.' The man in the driver's seat barely waited for the woman to get in before hitting the accelerator. The car leaped forward and vanished into the smoke, others following close behind.
The rest of the vehicles were all turning to leave - except for one.
An ageing red station wagon was pulled off the side of the road. As Justin watched, the driver leaped out, paused to grab something out of the back of the car, then ran towards the fire.
'What the-' For a second, Justin was too shocked to move.
The woman zigzagged through the patches of burning grass and Justin lost sight of her in the smoke. Was the woman mad? Why would anyone risk their life running into a bushfire like that? He ran after her.
ABOUT 'SAFE HAVEN AT WAGTAIL RIDGE': The matchmakers of the Wagtail Ridge knitting club return - with a new couple in their sights.
Anna Prentiss, the town vet, keeps herself emotionally distant from everyone. Badly scarred in an accident, she believes she will never be loved. But the matchmakers of the knitting club disagree.
Firefighter Justin Turner is building a volunteer fire service to protect the town during the bushfire season. But Justin and his identical twin brother, Ben, face an unexpected and rocky reunion when their estranged mother crashes back into their orbit.
Justin doesn't see Anna's scars - only her beauty and strength. But his attempt at a romantic dinner goes horribly wrong, and he begins to understand how easy it is to be unintentionally cruel - a lesson he should apply to his own past with his mother.
When fate forces both Anna and Justin to confront their fears, they see the chance of a future together. But as a raging bushfire threatens Wagtail Ridge, will this newfound hope be reduced to ash before they can take the chance?
MY THOUGHTS: I am loving this not series set in Wagtail Ridge, written by Janet Gover. The common theme throughout is the community Wagtail Ridge and its knitting club. Each book focuses its attention on bringing together a different couple so, although some characters may appear in more than one book, each is easily read as a stand-alone.
I also love the common theme of firefighting in rural areas where much depends on the locals to play their part.
Justin is a rural firefighter based in Tamworth, NSW. It is his job to teach the public how to prepare themselves and their properties for the summer bushfire season and to recruit and train volunteers to help the RFS put out the fires. Justin has an identical twin brother, Ben, also a firefighter and the brothers have a very close relationship.
Anna is a vet in Wagtail Ridge. She is badly scarred following an altercation with an injured rodeo bull and is hiding in Wagtail Ridge licking her wounds. She is self-conscious of her scars and prefers not to socialise as she believes people only see her scars and not the person behind them.
We all know where this is going, but the romance thread is overlayed with the story of a long-standing fractured family relationship and a dangerous bush fire or two. Janet Gover has written a story that had my heart in my mouth for much of it, and that same heart breaking for the rest of it. I had tears in my eyes - and it wasn't from the smoke!
Safe Haven at Wagtail Ridge is a story about seeing past appearances and being true to what is important in your life.
I'm looking forward to my next visit to Wagtail Ridge.
⭐⭐⭐⭐
#SafeHavenatWagtailRidge #NetGalley
MEET THE AUTHOR: JANET GOVER grew up surrounded by books. Both her parents loved to read and they shared that love with her. In the tiny Australian bush town where she lived, there wasn’t a lot to do except read and ride her ponies.
As it’s pretty hard to make a living out of riding ponies, she guesses she was always going to be a writer.
Janet travels a lot – and many years ago in Hong Kong, she met an Englishman with green eyes – which explains why she now lives in London. Janet's travels inspire her – but it seems that when she writes, she often comes back to the place she grew up.
Some things you never leave behind. (Source: janetgover.com)
DISCLOSURE: Thank you to Harlequin Australia, HQ & MIRA, via NetGalley for providing a digital ARC of Safe haven at Wagtail Ridge by Janet Gover for review. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own personal opinions.
'Turn them around and get them out of here.' he shouted over the roar of the fire.
The other firefighter must have heard, or seen the danger and understood. He raised an arm to acknowledge Justin's instruction and darted towards the cars at the back of the line, signaling for them to turn and go back the way they had come. Justin did the same to those cars at the head of the line, closest to the flames.
About halfway along the line, a woman was desperately trying to start her car. The engine coughed and kicked and failed. She tried again. And again. Tears were streaming down her face as Justin reached her and her hands were shaking so badly she could barely grip the steering wheel.
'Leave it,' he commanded as he pulled her door open. 'Come with me.'
The woman didn't move. She sat staring with wild eyes at the leaping flames drawing closer with every second. Justin reached into the car and grabbed her arm. As quickly as he could, he pulled her from behind the wheel. The frozen terror on her face remained, but she followed his directions as he urged her towards the next vehicle, which was starting to pull away.
He flagged the car down and opened a rear door. 'Take her and get out of here as fast as you can.'
'Right.' The man in the driver's seat barely waited for the woman to get in before hitting the accelerator. The car leaped forward and vanished into the smoke, others following close behind.
The rest of the vehicles were all turning to leave - except for one.
An ageing red station wagon was pulled off the side of the road. As Justin watched, the driver leaped out, paused to grab something out of the back of the car, then ran towards the fire.
'What the-' For a second, Justin was too shocked to move.
The woman zigzagged through the patches of burning grass and Justin lost sight of her in the smoke. Was the woman mad? Why would anyone risk their life running into a bushfire like that? He ran after her.
ABOUT 'SAFE HAVEN AT WAGTAIL RIDGE': The matchmakers of the Wagtail Ridge knitting club return - with a new couple in their sights.
Anna Prentiss, the town vet, keeps herself emotionally distant from everyone. Badly scarred in an accident, she believes she will never be loved. But the matchmakers of the knitting club disagree.
Firefighter Justin Turner is building a volunteer fire service to protect the town during the bushfire season. But Justin and his identical twin brother, Ben, face an unexpected and rocky reunion when their estranged mother crashes back into their orbit.
Justin doesn't see Anna's scars - only her beauty and strength. But his attempt at a romantic dinner goes horribly wrong, and he begins to understand how easy it is to be unintentionally cruel - a lesson he should apply to his own past with his mother.
When fate forces both Anna and Justin to confront their fears, they see the chance of a future together. But as a raging bushfire threatens Wagtail Ridge, will this newfound hope be reduced to ash before they can take the chance?
MY THOUGHTS: I am loving this not series set in Wagtail Ridge, written by Janet Gover. The common theme throughout is the community Wagtail Ridge and its knitting club. Each book focuses its attention on bringing together a different couple so, although some characters may appear in more than one book, each is easily read as a stand-alone.
I also love the common theme of firefighting in rural areas where much depends on the locals to play their part.
Justin is a rural firefighter based in Tamworth, NSW. It is his job to teach the public how to prepare themselves and their properties for the summer bushfire season and to recruit and train volunteers to help the RFS put out the fires. Justin has an identical twin brother, Ben, also a firefighter and the brothers have a very close relationship.
Anna is a vet in Wagtail Ridge. She is badly scarred following an altercation with an injured rodeo bull and is hiding in Wagtail Ridge licking her wounds. She is self-conscious of her scars and prefers not to socialise as she believes people only see her scars and not the person behind them.
We all know where this is going, but the romance thread is overlayed with the story of a long-standing fractured family relationship and a dangerous bush fire or two. Janet Gover has written a story that had my heart in my mouth for much of it, and that same heart breaking for the rest of it. I had tears in my eyes - and it wasn't from the smoke!
Safe Haven at Wagtail Ridge is a story about seeing past appearances and being true to what is important in your life.
I'm looking forward to my next visit to Wagtail Ridge.
⭐⭐⭐⭐
#SafeHavenatWagtailRidge #NetGalley
MEET THE AUTHOR: JANET GOVER grew up surrounded by books. Both her parents loved to read and they shared that love with her. In the tiny Australian bush town where she lived, there wasn’t a lot to do except read and ride her ponies.
As it’s pretty hard to make a living out of riding ponies, she guesses she was always going to be a writer.
Janet travels a lot – and many years ago in Hong Kong, she met an Englishman with green eyes – which explains why she now lives in London. Janet's travels inspire her – but it seems that when she writes, she often comes back to the place she grew up.
Some things you never leave behind. (Source: janetgover.com)
DISCLOSURE: Thank you to Harlequin Australia, HQ & MIRA, via NetGalley for providing a digital ARC of Safe haven at Wagtail Ridge by Janet Gover for review. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own personal opinions.
November 18, 2025
Hunter Valley, New South Wales. Anna Prentiss is the small animal vet in Wagtail Ridge, she was badly scarred in accident, and people notice the damage to her face and stare. Anna has low self-esteem and lost her confidence, social anxiety and negative perception about her looks and thinks she will remain single forever.
Justin Turner is a RFS firefighter based in Tamworth, his job is not only to put out bushfires, but to educate people about measures they can take to be prepared for summer, things like cleaning around their properties and gutters, have a bag packed and an action plan.
He and his identical twin brother Ben are sent to Wagtail Ridge to recruit volunteers and train them. They have not seen their estranged mother in years, and Justin's shocked when he comes across her saving a koala and he had no idea she lived in the town. Justin is keen to speak to his mum about the past and try to mend their relationship, Ben doesn’t feel the same way, he’s still very angry about what happened, he doesn’t want anything to do with her and the brothers have very different personalities and ideas.
Justin is attracted to Anna, when he takes her out for a romantic dinner it goes horribly wrong, and he didn’t know people could be cruel. Anna and Justin both have to confront their fears, for Anna it means she has to be vulnerable and not hide away and for Justin he has to put himself first and stop trying cover up brother’s errors and mistakes.
I received a copy of Safe Haven at Wagtail Ridge by Janet Gover from NetGalley and Harlequin Australia in exchange for an honest review. I have read the two previous novels in the series and it was great catching up with familiar characters, and meeting new ones.
A thought provoking narrative about what it’s like to have a facial scar and how it effects a person’s confidence, the match making knitting ladies and they never give up, the threat of bushfires and how to be being prepared, wildlife rescue and taking care of animals, forgiveness and this is the only way anyone can move forward and be open to finding love.
Five stars from me, Ms Gover likes to write a stories with strong female characters and that’s Anna personified and I highly recommend.
Justin Turner is a RFS firefighter based in Tamworth, his job is not only to put out bushfires, but to educate people about measures they can take to be prepared for summer, things like cleaning around their properties and gutters, have a bag packed and an action plan.
He and his identical twin brother Ben are sent to Wagtail Ridge to recruit volunteers and train them. They have not seen their estranged mother in years, and Justin's shocked when he comes across her saving a koala and he had no idea she lived in the town. Justin is keen to speak to his mum about the past and try to mend their relationship, Ben doesn’t feel the same way, he’s still very angry about what happened, he doesn’t want anything to do with her and the brothers have very different personalities and ideas.
Justin is attracted to Anna, when he takes her out for a romantic dinner it goes horribly wrong, and he didn’t know people could be cruel. Anna and Justin both have to confront their fears, for Anna it means she has to be vulnerable and not hide away and for Justin he has to put himself first and stop trying cover up brother’s errors and mistakes.
I received a copy of Safe Haven at Wagtail Ridge by Janet Gover from NetGalley and Harlequin Australia in exchange for an honest review. I have read the two previous novels in the series and it was great catching up with familiar characters, and meeting new ones.
A thought provoking narrative about what it’s like to have a facial scar and how it effects a person’s confidence, the match making knitting ladies and they never give up, the threat of bushfires and how to be being prepared, wildlife rescue and taking care of animals, forgiveness and this is the only way anyone can move forward and be open to finding love.
Five stars from me, Ms Gover likes to write a stories with strong female characters and that’s Anna personified and I highly recommend.
December 17, 2025
The viral video of a woman running into a bushfire to rescue an injured koala introduces veterinarian Anna Prentiss to firefighter Justin Turner in Safe Haven at Wagtail Ridge by Janet Gover, the third book in her loosely linked rural romance series set in the Hunter Valley.
The woman, a local volunteer wildlife carer, is Justin’s estranged mother whom he, and his twin brother Ben, haven’t seen in 15 years. While Ben is vehemently against reuniting with his mum, Justin wants to reach out and he is directed to Anna’s vet practice. Anna is stunned by her reaction to Justin, and equally surprised by his lack of reaction to her. Anna bears obvious facial scars, the result of being gored by a bull several years earlier, and usually strangers look at her with pity or horror.
The relationship that develops between Anna and Justin is really lovely. Since the accident Anna has essentially isolated herself, moving away from family and rarely venturing out socially. Justin is genuinely attracted to Anna and his acceptance of her scars, both physical and emotional, helps her to rebuild her self esteem. Meanwhile Anna is supportive of Justin’s desire to heal the rift with his mother.
Justin and Ben’s history with their mother, and their conflicting feelings, adds drama to the storyline, while a bushfire that threatens the safety of Wagtail Ridge, and Justin, brings tension. These elements provide depth and interest to the story allowing Gover to explore themes such as sibling rivalry, forgiveness, self acceptance and community. She also highlights the threat of bushfires and the bravery of firefighters who defend against them.
A heartwarming romance with well realised characters, I found Safe Haven at Wagtail Ridge to be an engaging read.
The woman, a local volunteer wildlife carer, is Justin’s estranged mother whom he, and his twin brother Ben, haven’t seen in 15 years. While Ben is vehemently against reuniting with his mum, Justin wants to reach out and he is directed to Anna’s vet practice. Anna is stunned by her reaction to Justin, and equally surprised by his lack of reaction to her. Anna bears obvious facial scars, the result of being gored by a bull several years earlier, and usually strangers look at her with pity or horror.
The relationship that develops between Anna and Justin is really lovely. Since the accident Anna has essentially isolated herself, moving away from family and rarely venturing out socially. Justin is genuinely attracted to Anna and his acceptance of her scars, both physical and emotional, helps her to rebuild her self esteem. Meanwhile Anna is supportive of Justin’s desire to heal the rift with his mother.
Justin and Ben’s history with their mother, and their conflicting feelings, adds drama to the storyline, while a bushfire that threatens the safety of Wagtail Ridge, and Justin, brings tension. These elements provide depth and interest to the story allowing Gover to explore themes such as sibling rivalry, forgiveness, self acceptance and community. She also highlights the threat of bushfires and the bravery of firefighters who defend against them.
A heartwarming romance with well realised characters, I found Safe Haven at Wagtail Ridge to be an engaging read.
February 1, 2026
Big thanks to Harlequin for sending us a copy to read and review.
Country living isn’t always like a country style magazine but every country town has a social heart that makes sense of community a real thing.
Harsh summers make conditions perfect for bushfires.
Wagtail Ridge is in the firing line for danger.
Anna is the local vet.
A devastating accident with a bull left her with horrific facial injuries leaving both physical and emotional scars.
These reminders leave her feeling self conscious and impact her confidence.
Ben and Justin are twin fire fighters who have been in the district on a mission. Inadvertently they discover that their estranged mother lives in town.
When Justin meets Anna he sees her for the beautiful woman she is but her protective shield is hard to crack.
Second chances, acceptance, danger and devastation and a community that rallies add to the drama of the plot.
Returning back to this town is always a joy.
I look forward to seeing how life pans out for Anna in the next instalment. Emotional fragility and bushfire threats are real issues in the bush and are presented in this book well.
Facing fears has never been so real.
Country living isn’t always like a country style magazine but every country town has a social heart that makes sense of community a real thing.
Harsh summers make conditions perfect for bushfires.
Wagtail Ridge is in the firing line for danger.
Anna is the local vet.
A devastating accident with a bull left her with horrific facial injuries leaving both physical and emotional scars.
These reminders leave her feeling self conscious and impact her confidence.
Ben and Justin are twin fire fighters who have been in the district on a mission. Inadvertently they discover that their estranged mother lives in town.
When Justin meets Anna he sees her for the beautiful woman she is but her protective shield is hard to crack.
Second chances, acceptance, danger and devastation and a community that rallies add to the drama of the plot.
Returning back to this town is always a joy.
I look forward to seeing how life pans out for Anna in the next instalment. Emotional fragility and bushfire threats are real issues in the bush and are presented in this book well.
Facing fears has never been so real.
January 28, 2026
Heartwarmingly lovely.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
I continue to marvel at Janet Gover’s ability to deliver incredibly emotional Australian stories that make me feel a deep connection to the characters, landscape and concerns of this vast island continent. Devastating bush fires are a brutal reality in this country. The fear and hopelessness many experience after one comes blazing through their pasture, town or house, can be crippling. Preparation is an important step to surviving these temperamental blazes. Hot dry winds and soaring temperatures, lightning storms and other sources can set them in motion. Humans, animals, grasslands and trees are all at risk. Our home shelters, too. We try our best to protect and prepare. But even our wisest precautions and approaches sometimes fail.
After reading Safe Haven at Wagtail Ridge I felt as if I had been in a real bushfire. The skill with which Janet Gover delivers this reality is commendable. She gives us such detailed reports of the people, environment, actions and reactions—it makes you feel as though you are in the midst of the fire storm. But this is not just excellent reporting as there are also strong elements of fiction applied. We truly get to know the characters, their hearts, weaknesses and dreams. When they are in trouble, we worry for them. And feel compassion for those injured and threatened by nature’s fury.
This novel focuses on the lives of two women in the Wagtail community. Two compassionate souls: one who rescues animals from fires and the other who is a vet restoring their health. But they each have an emotional journey they must take to find healing and release from their own social and psychological wounds.
The Prologue opens with a powerful scene. Small town vet, Anna, has recently had surgery. She was badly hurt in an accident. One that causes her a great deal of pain: more emotional than physical. She wants to stay hidden behind the bandages because her courage has waned. Yet she must face the outcome. It is easy to see why her confidence is crushed. She wears a heavy mantel of self-blame. She says she made a ‘foolish’ decision. Took the wrong action fuelled by pride and it led to her dire situation. As a result, we know her road to recovery is going to be a rough one. Severe anxiety will keep her from many normal social situations. Her visible scars will cause terrible responses from the public. She will believe that nobody will want her now. This sad revelation says a lot about self-perceptions after disfigurement injuries. But what Anna does not count on is there will be someone to care for her and see the beauty beneath her scars.
Carol is a woman who has had a tough existence. Her early days as a single mother of twin boys, holding two jobs to feed and clothe her children, is admirable. But her actions are sometimes misunderstood. She has a compassionate heart. Particularly with animals who have been caught in bush fires. She tries to rescue as many as possible, and takes them to the vet to heal their wounds. She gives them another chance. They call her the Koala Lady. It was moving to read the stories about these animals and to know some survive with her care. But her relationship with her sons is another matter. Something happened that caused the twins to leave her when they were seventeen. For the last fifteen years she has had no contact with them. Until one day, these two, now RFS firefighters (living in Tamworth, NSW), are sent to Wagtail Ridge (in the Hunter Valley, NSW ) to recruit and train volunteers. And to educate residents on how to minimise fire hazard on their property (such as cleaning debris from yards and gutters) and preparing for the worst (having an action plan and a packed bag for quick exit). We get a clear picture of the two men, their differences and struggles: especially seen in their encounters with their mother. Justin is the firstborn: the responsible, caring and forgiving one. Ben carries a lot of anger, has drinking issues and holds a grudge. His emotional wounds affect his relationships. He relies on his older brother to be his caregiver, parent and protector. Justin often apologises for Ben’s bad behaviour until Anna makes him see, he is not doing his little brother any favours.
I loved the relationship between Justin and Anna: how he helps her feel wanted and beautiful. To see Anna grow and become more comfortable with her appearance was wonderful. Once she believes that beauty is not just on the outside, her confidence begins to return. And she finally realises she is worthy of love, still.
Safe Haven at Wagtail Ridge delivers a huge bushfire experience where homes, lives and happiness of its residents are threatened. But when the community pulls together, great things happen. Support is seen in so many areas, including the knitting club they created. And even with the trauma and unfortunate loss, relationships rise out the ashes.
I highly recommend this heart-warming beautifully delivered story, brimming with hope, forgiveness and second chances. Despite the tough subject matter (of fires, scars and damaged relationships), I felt uplifted and enriched. Safe Haven at Wagtail Ridge offers real life situations and viable solutions. It teaches that love still exists for those who have been injured and lost. And families can be restored once again. This novel becomes a healing balm for the suffering and a safe haven for those who need a shelter from the storms of life. An absolute must read! 5 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thanks to HQ Fiction and Netgalley for a review copy.
After reading Safe Haven at Wagtail Ridge I felt as if I had been in a real bushfire. The skill with which Janet Gover delivers this reality is commendable. She gives us such detailed reports of the people, environment, actions and reactions—it makes you feel as though you are in the midst of the fire storm. But this is not just excellent reporting as there are also strong elements of fiction applied. We truly get to know the characters, their hearts, weaknesses and dreams. When they are in trouble, we worry for them. And feel compassion for those injured and threatened by nature’s fury.
This novel focuses on the lives of two women in the Wagtail community. Two compassionate souls: one who rescues animals from fires and the other who is a vet restoring their health. But they each have an emotional journey they must take to find healing and release from their own social and psychological wounds.
The Prologue opens with a powerful scene. Small town vet, Anna, has recently had surgery. She was badly hurt in an accident. One that causes her a great deal of pain: more emotional than physical. She wants to stay hidden behind the bandages because her courage has waned. Yet she must face the outcome. It is easy to see why her confidence is crushed. She wears a heavy mantel of self-blame. She says she made a ‘foolish’ decision. Took the wrong action fuelled by pride and it led to her dire situation. As a result, we know her road to recovery is going to be a rough one. Severe anxiety will keep her from many normal social situations. Her visible scars will cause terrible responses from the public. She will believe that nobody will want her now. This sad revelation says a lot about self-perceptions after disfigurement injuries. But what Anna does not count on is there will be someone to care for her and see the beauty beneath her scars.
Carol is a woman who has had a tough existence. Her early days as a single mother of twin boys, holding two jobs to feed and clothe her children, is admirable. But her actions are sometimes misunderstood. She has a compassionate heart. Particularly with animals who have been caught in bush fires. She tries to rescue as many as possible, and takes them to the vet to heal their wounds. She gives them another chance. They call her the Koala Lady. It was moving to read the stories about these animals and to know some survive with her care. But her relationship with her sons is another matter. Something happened that caused the twins to leave her when they were seventeen. For the last fifteen years she has had no contact with them. Until one day, these two, now RFS firefighters (living in Tamworth, NSW), are sent to Wagtail Ridge (in the Hunter Valley, NSW ) to recruit and train volunteers. And to educate residents on how to minimise fire hazard on their property (such as cleaning debris from yards and gutters) and preparing for the worst (having an action plan and a packed bag for quick exit). We get a clear picture of the two men, their differences and struggles: especially seen in their encounters with their mother. Justin is the firstborn: the responsible, caring and forgiving one. Ben carries a lot of anger, has drinking issues and holds a grudge. His emotional wounds affect his relationships. He relies on his older brother to be his caregiver, parent and protector. Justin often apologises for Ben’s bad behaviour until Anna makes him see, he is not doing his little brother any favours.
I loved the relationship between Justin and Anna: how he helps her feel wanted and beautiful. To see Anna grow and become more comfortable with her appearance was wonderful. Once she believes that beauty is not just on the outside, her confidence begins to return. And she finally realises she is worthy of love, still.
Safe Haven at Wagtail Ridge delivers a huge bushfire experience where homes, lives and happiness of its residents are threatened. But when the community pulls together, great things happen. Support is seen in so many areas, including the knitting club they created. And even with the trauma and unfortunate loss, relationships rise out the ashes.
I highly recommend this heart-warming beautifully delivered story, brimming with hope, forgiveness and second chances. Despite the tough subject matter (of fires, scars and damaged relationships), I felt uplifted and enriched. Safe Haven at Wagtail Ridge offers real life situations and viable solutions. It teaches that love still exists for those who have been injured and lost. And families can be restored once again. This novel becomes a healing balm for the suffering and a safe haven for those who need a shelter from the storms of life. An absolute must read! 5 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thanks to HQ Fiction and Netgalley for a review copy.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Anna Prentiss had been part of the Wagtail Ridge community for the past three years, after a devastating accident had sent her from where the memories were strongest. She was the local vet and loved the job, caring for all animals, even the wildlife that needed care after being hit by cars, or burnt in fires. Anna kept to herself though - she was used to the reactions to her scar, but it still hurt. She hated scaring small children, so staying isolated was best.
Twins, Justin & Ben Turner, were firefighters based out of Tamworth when they were needed at Wagtail Ridge. They bunked in the firehouse in town, a basic building which housed all they needed, and began training volunteers for the onset of a dreadful summer of bushfires. Meeting a couple of the locals - Carol, "the koala lady" who rescued wildlife and brought them into the vets; and Anna, the vet - was a shock. Carol was the twins' estranged mother whom they hadn't seen or spoken to for fifteen years. And Justin was immediately enamoured by Anna's kindness, caring and beauty. He was the first person not to cringe at Anna's scar.
When a raging bushfire threatened Wagtail Ridge, all hands were on deck. It was a beast, threatening and burning down several homes as it moved nearer to the Ridge. What would happen to the townsfolk? Would the fire be doused before severe damage was done everywhere?
Safe Haven at Wagtail Ridge by Aussie author Janet Gover is another excellent story set in Wagtail Ridge in the Hunter Valley of NSW, after The Library at Wagtail Ridge. Though not a series, we still catch up with previous characters as well as meet new. The Knitting Club and its ability to matchmake is amusing, and they were well on their way. Ms Gover writes excellent characters, with the bush and surrounding areas alive with feeling of their own. A heartwarming tale, Safe Haven at Wagtail Ridge is one I recommend highly.
With thanks to NetGalley & HarperCollins AU for my digital ARC to read and review.
Twins, Justin & Ben Turner, were firefighters based out of Tamworth when they were needed at Wagtail Ridge. They bunked in the firehouse in town, a basic building which housed all they needed, and began training volunteers for the onset of a dreadful summer of bushfires. Meeting a couple of the locals - Carol, "the koala lady" who rescued wildlife and brought them into the vets; and Anna, the vet - was a shock. Carol was the twins' estranged mother whom they hadn't seen or spoken to for fifteen years. And Justin was immediately enamoured by Anna's kindness, caring and beauty. He was the first person not to cringe at Anna's scar.
When a raging bushfire threatened Wagtail Ridge, all hands were on deck. It was a beast, threatening and burning down several homes as it moved nearer to the Ridge. What would happen to the townsfolk? Would the fire be doused before severe damage was done everywhere?
Safe Haven at Wagtail Ridge by Aussie author Janet Gover is another excellent story set in Wagtail Ridge in the Hunter Valley of NSW, after The Library at Wagtail Ridge. Though not a series, we still catch up with previous characters as well as meet new. The Knitting Club and its ability to matchmake is amusing, and they were well on their way. Ms Gover writes excellent characters, with the bush and surrounding areas alive with feeling of their own. A heartwarming tale, Safe Haven at Wagtail Ridge is one I recommend highly.
With thanks to NetGalley & HarperCollins AU for my digital ARC to read and review.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I loved Safe Haven at Wagtail Ridge from the very first page. The story is built around the ever present threat of devastating bushfires which is part of living in Australia. Coincidently while I was reading this book (just a few weeks before it’s release) I was caught up in the drama of a massive out of control bushfire as we were travelling down the east coast. While we were merely inconvenienced for a day, sadly a fire fighter lost his life and homes were destroyed before a change in weather enabled it to be brought under control.
Set in a fictional community in the beautiful Hunter Valley, New South Wales - my teenage stomping ground. I spent many happy weekends camping in the area so I am very aware of the locale and dangers. Janet Gover brought the scenery, and my memories, to life on the pages of this book.
Anna is a small animal veterinarian in the small township Wagtail Ridge. She has worked here for 3 years - moving here from South Australia to hide from the world. She was gored in the face by a pain-ravaged bull that had been trapped in a trailer after a vehicle accident. Her face and shoulder were badly scarred and she has lost her confidence as now people only seem to see the scar and not her.
Justin is a full time Rural Firefighter based in near by Tamworth. His job is to educate people on how to prepare themselves for the summer bushfire season, and to put out bushfires as they occur. Justin and his twin brother Ben, also a fire fighter, are sent to Wagtail Ridge to recruit volunteers and train them in anticipation of an expected bad bushfire season. What the boys did not expect was to meet their estranged mother who they haven’t seen since they walked away from her fifteen years earlier. Justin is willing to forgive, Ben still hates her and forgiveness is not on his agenda.
Justin meets Anna and is immediately attracted to her as he only sees her kindness, and her caring nature. Anna is attracted to him as he is the first person not to cringe at her scars. However, before all this book’s back stories can reach their conclusions a massive bushfire breaks out and it is all hands on deck to beat the monster fire. Janet Gover recreates the horror of bushfires - the preparation, the terror, communities pulling together to protect and help each other out.
This is my third visit to Wagtail Ridge and I loved catching up with past characters and meeting the new ones. Hoping that Janet Gover has not finished here and there will be more future visits.
Thank you to HQ fiction for providing an advanced copy of this book, at my request, for review consideration via NetGalley. All opinions are my own
Set in a fictional community in the beautiful Hunter Valley, New South Wales - my teenage stomping ground. I spent many happy weekends camping in the area so I am very aware of the locale and dangers. Janet Gover brought the scenery, and my memories, to life on the pages of this book.
Anna is a small animal veterinarian in the small township Wagtail Ridge. She has worked here for 3 years - moving here from South Australia to hide from the world. She was gored in the face by a pain-ravaged bull that had been trapped in a trailer after a vehicle accident. Her face and shoulder were badly scarred and she has lost her confidence as now people only seem to see the scar and not her.
Justin is a full time Rural Firefighter based in near by Tamworth. His job is to educate people on how to prepare themselves for the summer bushfire season, and to put out bushfires as they occur. Justin and his twin brother Ben, also a fire fighter, are sent to Wagtail Ridge to recruit volunteers and train them in anticipation of an expected bad bushfire season. What the boys did not expect was to meet their estranged mother who they haven’t seen since they walked away from her fifteen years earlier. Justin is willing to forgive, Ben still hates her and forgiveness is not on his agenda.
Justin meets Anna and is immediately attracted to her as he only sees her kindness, and her caring nature. Anna is attracted to him as he is the first person not to cringe at her scars. However, before all this book’s back stories can reach their conclusions a massive bushfire breaks out and it is all hands on deck to beat the monster fire. Janet Gover recreates the horror of bushfires - the preparation, the terror, communities pulling together to protect and help each other out.
This is my third visit to Wagtail Ridge and I loved catching up with past characters and meeting the new ones. Hoping that Janet Gover has not finished here and there will be more future visits.
Thank you to HQ fiction for providing an advanced copy of this book, at my request, for review consideration via NetGalley. All opinions are my own
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Another fabulous visit to Wagtail Ridge, this is a heart-warming and beautiful story in a lovely setting with wonderful characters, come along and meet Vet, Anna Prentiss and RFS firefighter Justin Turner, I am sure you will find it hard to put this one down.
Anna moved to Wagtail Ridge three years ago after she was badly scarred in an accident, here she starts a new life and feels OK walking around town and helping animals but she knows she will never find love but the Knitting club matchmakers have a different opinion.
When firefighter Justin arrives in town with his identical twin brother Ben to train volunteers for the RFS and help protect the town form bushfires he meets the local vet Anna and he doesn’t see her scars he sees a beautiful and caring woman, but he and Ben also run into their estranged mother, Carol know as the Koala Lady, Justin wants to mend the bridge between them but Ben is still not happy with his mother he cannot let the past go.
Justin asks Anna out to dinner and the it does not go well but there is no way he is going to give up one her and soon they are opening up to each other and getting closer, it is looking like there will be a future for them but when a bushfire comes very close to Wagtail Ridge lives are in danger as well as properties, will everyone be safe?
I did love this story I loved Anna and Justin and they both deserve love and happiness, the matchmakers in town have got it right again, MS Gover explained the way bushfires rage in the dry countryside so well, I do highly recommend this one, a truly lovely story, I am sure the reader will be left feeling very happy.
My thanks to HQ Fiction and Netgalley for my copy to read and review.
Anna moved to Wagtail Ridge three years ago after she was badly scarred in an accident, here she starts a new life and feels OK walking around town and helping animals but she knows she will never find love but the Knitting club matchmakers have a different opinion.
When firefighter Justin arrives in town with his identical twin brother Ben to train volunteers for the RFS and help protect the town form bushfires he meets the local vet Anna and he doesn’t see her scars he sees a beautiful and caring woman, but he and Ben also run into their estranged mother, Carol know as the Koala Lady, Justin wants to mend the bridge between them but Ben is still not happy with his mother he cannot let the past go.
Justin asks Anna out to dinner and the it does not go well but there is no way he is going to give up one her and soon they are opening up to each other and getting closer, it is looking like there will be a future for them but when a bushfire comes very close to Wagtail Ridge lives are in danger as well as properties, will everyone be safe?
I did love this story I loved Anna and Justin and they both deserve love and happiness, the matchmakers in town have got it right again, MS Gover explained the way bushfires rage in the dry countryside so well, I do highly recommend this one, a truly lovely story, I am sure the reader will be left feeling very happy.
My thanks to HQ Fiction and Netgalley for my copy to read and review.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I love Janet Gover’s Wagtail Ridge stories so having the opportunity to read Safe Haven At Wagtail Ridge made me very happy. This smally northern NSW community is filled with warm, caring people so it’s no surprise that veterinarian Anna Prentiss moved there to set up her practice after having her face gashed by a bull she was trying to tranquilise after an accident. Anna’s very se;f-conscious about her looks so when she meets firefighter Justin Turner and he looks her in the eye without flinching, we know that these two could be perfect for each other. Unfortunately, Justin’s identical brother Ben doesn’t think so and to make matters worse, he has a chip on his shoulder over the fact that he was the second born and always seems to be in Justin’s shadow. It’s clear though that in fire situations, where ea h is leading their own teams, Ben well and truly comes into his own. Another issue for Justin and Ben to come to terms with is reconnecting with their estranged mother Carol Turner, whom they walked away from at age seventeen. Carol is a wildlife carer and very private, so it’s lovely to watch her come out of her shell as the romance between Justin and Anna progresses. As with other books in this series, this is a book to bring out the warm fuzzy feelings that romance readers enjoy so much. It certainly worked for me.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Safe Haven at Wagtail Ridge was a very satisfying read where the pages just almost skipped over by themselves as I read.
I loved Anna who is the local vet, she is badly scarred after an animal encounter that went wrong. Yet now she courageously carries on and faces her fears. How she feels when people highlight her in unkind ways because of those scars is important to be aware of.
Justin is a firefighter, but you can't mention Justin without Ben his twin brother. They are competent professionals but ... have a huge hang up about their mother. Ben especially, and when we eventually learn how it was, well let's just say, seemed a mountain made out of a mole hill.
Carol is their mother and she rescues animals that have been hurt or damaged in the fires that are often in the area.
As well as a gentle romance that eventuates, the inner journeys the characters make is an important part of the book. Plus the devastation a wild fire causes in the outback. A big part of our world today.
I loved the ending - yes it's all wrapped up nicely, but that's what I want in my read. I hope we get the pleasure of visiting Wagtail Ridge sometime again in the future.
I loved Anna who is the local vet, she is badly scarred after an animal encounter that went wrong. Yet now she courageously carries on and faces her fears. How she feels when people highlight her in unkind ways because of those scars is important to be aware of.
Justin is a firefighter, but you can't mention Justin without Ben his twin brother. They are competent professionals but ... have a huge hang up about their mother. Ben especially, and when we eventually learn how it was, well let's just say, seemed a mountain made out of a mole hill.
Carol is their mother and she rescues animals that have been hurt or damaged in the fires that are often in the area.
As well as a gentle romance that eventuates, the inner journeys the characters make is an important part of the book. Plus the devastation a wild fire causes in the outback. A big part of our world today.
I loved the ending - yes it's all wrapped up nicely, but that's what I want in my read. I hope we get the pleasure of visiting Wagtail Ridge sometime again in the future.
January 6, 2026
Loved returning to Wagtail Ridge and catching up with old friends and meeting new ones such as Anna, the Vet, who has found solace and safety in the Ridge after an accident that left her scarred. When Justin and Ben come to town to give tips to survive bushfire season, she discovers she is worthy of love. But will that love be ripped from her before its really had a chance to flourish?
A brilliant read.
A brilliant read.
January 22, 2026
I always know I'm going to enjoy one of Janet's books and this is no exception. It's heart warming and enthralling. Justin and Anna are a perfect match and the intertwining of Ben's story with their mother really makes this special. I hope he gets his own romance soon but the character growth here was phenomenal. Lovely to see all the community of Wagtail Ridge sunning through as well. More please!
January 23, 2026
This series has been a slow burn for me. I have now listened to all 3 audio books and I must say they keep getting better.
I love all of the wagtail Ridge community and would love to be part of it.
I now feel like I know everyone in town and look forward to the next book in the series if there is one.
A great book to listen to as my holidays come to an end.
I look forward to Justin and Anna in future books as well as the rest of the town characters who keep popping up in all of the books.
I love all of the wagtail Ridge community and would love to be part of it.
I now feel like I know everyone in town and look forward to the next book in the series if there is one.
A great book to listen to as my holidays come to an end.
I look forward to Justin and Anna in future books as well as the rest of the town characters who keep popping up in all of the books.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I found this to be a really engaging book. It was lovely to visit Wagtail Ridge again and run into some characters from previous books. The threat of bushfires in country towns, well anywhere in Australia really, is an ever present worry that we all need to be prepared for.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an advance copy of this book in exchange for a honest review.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an advance copy of this book in exchange for a honest review.
December 31, 2025
Janet Gover is a skilled writer and taking a journey through one of her novels is always enjoyable; this one tackles a dreadful beast, bushfire, and one that too many are too familiar with. It brought the horrors to me and I felt every bit of the fire battles with the firefighters and volunteers.
This is a four and a half star story.
This is a four and a half star story.
January 13, 2026
A lovely read. I really enjoyed the range of characters in the book and the way the community cared for each other so much, and both took steps to partner up people but also allowed distance. At this time when firefighters have been active through lots of Victoria it is very much a story to help you understand what they do. I loved this story.
December 31, 2025
My last book of the year. It was either going to be my last 5 stars of 2025 or the first 5 stars of 2026. Either way I knew it was a 5 stars for me. I don’t just hand them out for anything. But this story grabbed me from the first page. I was hooked. And could not put it down.
January 4, 2026
I highly recomend this book actually all the three books which started with The library at wagtail ridge then The knitting club at wagtail ridge all wonderful reads wonderful characters , I want to live in Wagtail ridge
January 17, 2026
Absolutely loved it!
Read it in a day!
Perfect mix of everything we love in a Rural Romance!!
Read it in a day!
Perfect mix of everything we love in a Rural Romance!!
January 22, 2026
Loved this. The 3rd in the Wagtail Ridge series and it certainly didn't disappoint.
January 25, 2026
enjoyed
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