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OUTBACK ESCAPE
He never wanted to be a hero.
She never meant to drag him into hell.
With a killer hunting them down, hell may be the only place they survive.
Declan Branson is the brother everyone underestimates. Quiet. Methodical. More comfortable with spreadsheets than shotguns. He's spent years holding Koolaroo Ranch together while trying to forget the past failure that nearly destroyed him. He keeps his head down and his demons buried.
Bella Hartley arrives at Koolaroo Ranch looking for work and a place to disappear. Sweet, soft-spoken, and an incredible chef, she dreads the day her secrets catch up to her. But fear follows her like a shadow, and when two men arrive asking for her by name, everything explodes.
Knives fly. Blood spills.
And Declan acts on instinct he didn't know he had.
Forced to run, Declan takes Bella to an abandoned diamond mine buried deep in the outback. Hunted through collapsing tunnels and suffocating darkness, they're pushed to their limits. The deeper they go, the deadlier it gets and every choice could be their last. As their secrets unravel an attraction neither of them planned burns hotter with every heartbeat.
But Bella's running from a past that refuses to stay buried.
And now Declan's life is on the line too.
OUTBACK ESCAPE is a high-stakes romantic thriller featuring forced proximity, deadly secrets, a quiet hero pushed to his breaking point, and a slow-burn love forged in darkness where one wrong step means death.
She never meant to drag him into hell.
With a killer hunting them down, hell may be the only place they survive.
Declan Branson is the brother everyone underestimates. Quiet. Methodical. More comfortable with spreadsheets than shotguns. He's spent years holding Koolaroo Ranch together while trying to forget the past failure that nearly destroyed him. He keeps his head down and his demons buried.
Bella Hartley arrives at Koolaroo Ranch looking for work and a place to disappear. Sweet, soft-spoken, and an incredible chef, she dreads the day her secrets catch up to her. But fear follows her like a shadow, and when two men arrive asking for her by name, everything explodes.
Knives fly. Blood spills.
And Declan acts on instinct he didn't know he had.
Forced to run, Declan takes Bella to an abandoned diamond mine buried deep in the outback. Hunted through collapsing tunnels and suffocating darkness, they're pushed to their limits. The deeper they go, the deadlier it gets and every choice could be their last. As their secrets unravel an attraction neither of them planned burns hotter with every heartbeat.
But Bella's running from a past that refuses to stay buried.
And now Declan's life is on the line too.
OUTBACK ESCAPE is a high-stakes romantic thriller featuring forced proximity, deadly secrets, a quiet hero pushed to his breaking point, and a slow-burn love forged in darkness where one wrong step means death.
- GenresFamily
432 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 19, 2026
About the author
Elle James
575 books1,229 followersAward-winning author Elle James grew up as an air force military brat. She received her work ethic from her rock-solid father, her creative streak from her artistic mother and inspiration from her writing partner and sister, Delilah Devlin. As a former member of the army reserves and a current member of the air force reserves, she's traveled across the United States and to Germany, managed a full-time job, and raised three wonderful children. She and her husband have even tried their hands at ranching exotic birds (ostriches, emus and rheas) in the Texas hill country. Ask her, and she'll tell you what it's like to go toe-to-toe with an angry three-hundred-and-fifty-pound bird and live to tell about it!
Her adventures in the army and air force reserves, and the wild antics of her life on a small ranch in Texas give her fodder for mystery, suspense and humor in her writing. Elle writes gothic, paranormal mystery for the Harlequin Intrigue line and paranormal romantic comedy for Dorchester Publishing. A former manager of computer programming and project management professionals, Elle is happy she now has the opportunity to pursue her writing full time.
Her adventures in the army and air force reserves, and the wild antics of her life on a small ranch in Texas give her fodder for mystery, suspense and humor in her writing. Elle writes gothic, paranormal mystery for the Harlequin Intrigue line and paranormal romantic comedy for Dorchester Publishing. A former manager of computer programming and project management professionals, Elle is happy she now has the opportunity to pursue her writing full time.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 62 reviews
Review of advance copy
Declan is the brother that is happy wrapped up in numbers. He keeps the accounts and tries to fix the mess left behind by his father Frank who is still missing.
This story continues on from book 1. With the others out searching after the flood, Declan is home with Bella their cook. With two men arriving evil is now in the house, What secrets was Bella hiding?
On the run through the property, bullets flying, cows getting shot and blood staining their kitchen their family will get quite the shock. Declan and Bella make it to a closed diamond mine and with heart racing this story got really exciting. Evil will not give up, they want them dead.
This was a danger filled story full of secrets and I loved every moment.
This story continues on from book 1. With the others out searching after the flood, Declan is home with Bella their cook. With two men arriving evil is now in the house, What secrets was Bella hiding?
On the run through the property, bullets flying, cows getting shot and blood staining their kitchen their family will get quite the shock. Declan and Bella make it to a closed diamond mine and with heart racing this story got really exciting. Evil will not give up, they want them dead.
This was a danger filled story full of secrets and I loved every moment.
May 11, 2026
I want to metaphorically compare this story to a rollercoaster ride. It has been such an amazing read. This book has all those features that leaves the reader wanting more. As a matter of fact this has happened to me. The characters were beautifully matched; the story was very intriguing and I really can’t wait to read more about this series. I highly recommend this story
Review of advance copy received from Author
Cupcakes, diamond mines & the mafia…
Fasten your seatbelts – this one clips along at a breakneck speed! Bella is a new employee at the Koolaroo Ranch and has made quite a favorable impression with her exceptional culinary skills. One of the Branson men, the mild-mannered bookkeeper Declan, is especially taken with the enigmatic redhead, but he has no idea she arrived at the ranch with a secret agenda that had nothing to do with baking delicious lemon cupcakes. When her troubled past suddenly catches up to her, both Bella and Declan are swept up in a hair-raising struggle for survival that may well have you reaching for your asthma inhaler. I got so caught up in their adventure that I was loathe to put the book down long enough to answer the phone or have a meal. Both authors of this book are well-known for their incredible abilities to frame heart-pounding adventures featuring engaging characters you can’t help but become invested in, but putting these two authors together guarantees an explosive combination of talent that will keep you furiously flipping pages late into the night. The “just one more chapter” spell of this book is intoxicating. There is so much going on in the story as the characters face a different peril on nearly every page that I just couldn’t read fast enough to find out how they would survive all the challenges. This is a great one for the romantic at heart and the armchair adrenaline junkies. Enjoy!
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I was provided with an advance copy of this book, for which I thank the author, but my choice to share my honest and unbiased review is completely voluntary.
Fasten your seatbelts – this one clips along at a breakneck speed! Bella is a new employee at the Koolaroo Ranch and has made quite a favorable impression with her exceptional culinary skills. One of the Branson men, the mild-mannered bookkeeper Declan, is especially taken with the enigmatic redhead, but he has no idea she arrived at the ranch with a secret agenda that had nothing to do with baking delicious lemon cupcakes. When her troubled past suddenly catches up to her, both Bella and Declan are swept up in a hair-raising struggle for survival that may well have you reaching for your asthma inhaler. I got so caught up in their adventure that I was loathe to put the book down long enough to answer the phone or have a meal. Both authors of this book are well-known for their incredible abilities to frame heart-pounding adventures featuring engaging characters you can’t help but become invested in, but putting these two authors together guarantees an explosive combination of talent that will keep you furiously flipping pages late into the night. The “just one more chapter” spell of this book is intoxicating. There is so much going on in the story as the characters face a different peril on nearly every page that I just couldn’t read fast enough to find out how they would survive all the challenges. This is a great one for the romantic at heart and the armchair adrenaline junkies. Enjoy!
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I was provided with an advance copy of this book, for which I thank the author, but my choice to share my honest and unbiased review is completely voluntary.
Review of advance copy received from Author
What an absolutely phenomenal read!! I absolutely adored Declan and Bella’s story. So much depth and a whirlwind of emotions that will floor you and leave you breathless.
Declan may be the quieter brother but by no means is he meek and mild. This beautiful man is strong and a born protector. My heart bled for the torment and manipulation he’d been subjected to by someone who should have built him up and protected him. Every time he believed something he’d done was a failure or he could have done better, I wanted to reach through the pages to hug him and make him see the truly special person he was.
Bella is also quiet but she comes into her own. Her strength and determination was awe inspiring to watch as she worked as a team with Declan to thwart those after them and survive.
There was so much action in this story. Such an adrenalin rush as I worked beside them to get through the danger surrounding them. So exhilarating!!
Watching them fight to survive at the same time as they fell deeply for each other was so compelling and addictive to read. Their path was so rocky, but their bond was instant and unbreakable. And such a beautiful thing to watch unfold and blossom.
Absolutely phenomenal read. I could t put it down. Can’t wait for the next one!!!!
Declan may be the quieter brother but by no means is he meek and mild. This beautiful man is strong and a born protector. My heart bled for the torment and manipulation he’d been subjected to by someone who should have built him up and protected him. Every time he believed something he’d done was a failure or he could have done better, I wanted to reach through the pages to hug him and make him see the truly special person he was.
Bella is also quiet but she comes into her own. Her strength and determination was awe inspiring to watch as she worked as a team with Declan to thwart those after them and survive.
There was so much action in this story. Such an adrenalin rush as I worked beside them to get through the danger surrounding them. So exhilarating!!
Watching them fight to survive at the same time as they fell deeply for each other was so compelling and addictive to read. Their path was so rocky, but their bond was instant and unbreakable. And such a beautiful thing to watch unfold and blossom.
Absolutely phenomenal read. I could t put it down. Can’t wait for the next one!!!!
Review of advance copy
Declan Branson had been raised up by his mean-ass father, Frank, to believe that he had no potential and no talent; only good for keeping the ranch's books. Beautiful Bella was the ranch's gourmet cook and baker, hiding a painful secret but believing herself safe half a world away from Italy. However, evil Mafia henchmen who had worked for her abusive ex-fiancee, Vincenzo, have tracked her down to Australia and Koolaroo Ranch. It's a wild and exciting ride as Declan and Rosa abandon everything and flee from their dangerous foes, ultimately ending up trapped in an abandoned Diamond Mine. I was totally engrossed as the story progressed revealing new dangers and pitfalls each time Declan and Rosa think they are on the path out of the mine. This is the second book in the Koolaroo Ranch series, following the adventures of the Branson siblings as they search for their missing father, Frank. This book can be read as a stand-alone, but I think it is better read as part of the series. Adventure and romance lovers will enjoy this fresh tale of growing romance and desire amidst life and death survival. I am definitely looking forward to other books in the series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review of advance copy
This was a fast-paced and exciting book. There is action, adventure, danger, romanc. All the things that I really love in a book. “Outback Escape” is the second in a series by Elle James and Kendall Talbot that follows the Branson family as they try to unravel the mysteries left behind by their missing father.
Declan, the seemingly mild-mannered member of the family, is cast into a dangerous race for his life and the life of Bella, the household’s cook, when men come searching for Bella. The two are on the run and eventually find their way to an abandoned mine. It soon becomes obvious that they are doing more than fighting for their lives. They are falling in love. But can they survive to see their happily ever after?
Like I said, this book was brimming with all the things that make romantic suspense great. Heart-pounding excitement, menacing bad guys, being on the run, escaping one disaster and falling into another. It may not have been much fun for Declan and Bella, but I sure enjoyed it. Recommended.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Declan, the seemingly mild-mannered member of the family, is cast into a dangerous race for his life and the life of Bella, the household’s cook, when men come searching for Bella. The two are on the run and eventually find their way to an abandoned mine. It soon becomes obvious that they are doing more than fighting for their lives. They are falling in love. But can they survive to see their happily ever after?
Like I said, this book was brimming with all the things that make romantic suspense great. Heart-pounding excitement, menacing bad guys, being on the run, escaping one disaster and falling into another. It may not have been much fun for Declan and Bella, but I sure enjoyed it. Recommended.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 22, 2026
‘Outback Escape’ was thrilling. It involved financial woes, an interesting “family” visit, throwing knives, running, dodging bullets, running into an abandoned mine, flying bullets, being trapped, an interesting admission, hanging by a thread, flashbacks via a character’s letters to his family, bits of humor, nerve-wracking action and tension, suspense, a major rescue attempt, an interesting find, a long distance phone call, a much needed comeuppance, and good news falling onto some laps. Moreover, Declan and Bella, the protagonists, were soulmates and gushed with chemistry. I kept rooting for them. In addition, I liked the authors’ vivid descriptions, including figurative language, imagery, and ramped-up word choices, such as “The cattle blurred past in streaks of red and brown. Behind us, the car’s engine growled like a deranged beast.” I received a copy for free and am giving my honest review voluntarily. Overall, I liked the riveting narrative.
May 23, 2026
Another enjoyable trip back to Koolaroo! This book picks up not long after the first in the series and continues with the great settings, strong atmosphere and likeable characters that made me enjoy the earlier book so much.
I really feel like there are still plenty of secrets left to uncover in this series, which keeps me wanting to read more. I also loved the Aussie-style humour throughout. One moment that did make me laugh was Declan’s knife throwing attempts. The fact that he was aiming for very specific areas and missed so badly, yet still somehow made it work, did make me laugh, despite the pressure of the moment.
One thing I would love is a map of Koolaroo to help keep my bearings while reading, especially with all the different locations and action happening around the property.
Looking forward to Cassidy’s adventure next!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I really feel like there are still plenty of secrets left to uncover in this series, which keeps me wanting to read more. I also loved the Aussie-style humour throughout. One moment that did make me laugh was Declan’s knife throwing attempts. The fact that he was aiming for very specific areas and missed so badly, yet still somehow made it work, did make me laugh, despite the pressure of the moment.
One thing I would love is a map of Koolaroo to help keep my bearings while reading, especially with all the different locations and action happening around the property.
Looking forward to Cassidy’s adventure next!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 24, 2026
Another fast paced action read that will have you holding onto your seats. Declan, the mild mannered accountant for the ranch and Bella, the new employee at Koolaroo ranch, who has her secrets that finally catch up to her. The two are on the run and escape to a diamond mine that had failed under Declan but as the two navigate the dark tunnels with killers on their heels, more secrets come to light and Declan shows a side of himself that even he thought he was not capable of. Bella has her own reasons for ending up at the ranch and as her past comes to light so does the past of Declan’s father and none of it is good…for both Declan and Bella. But Declan is determined to save them and will do whatever it takes to keep them alive and get them out of the mine.
The pages were flipping and I couldn’t put the book down, the descriptions, the characters the fast paced action were spot on. More secrets are revealed and I CAN’T WAIT to find out more!!!
The pages were flipping and I couldn’t put the book down, the descriptions, the characters the fast paced action were spot on. More secrets are revealed and I CAN’T WAIT to find out more!!!
Review of advance copy received from Author
The second story in the series with Declan being the focus, a man more suited to the books than cattle ranching, if you believed what his father said.
The story continues with Frank still missing from the ranch and the other brothers trying to find him, meanwhile the debts continue to increase.
When two men turn up at the ranch on an allegedly surprise visit to their sister and from there it all goes to fast paced action. Just when you think you’ve got the story sorted another twist appears and keeps you in the edge.
Franks notes continue throughout the book providing depth to the story but his never ending schemes and plans just throw more questions as to what has happened.
Another great story with so much intrigue, I can’t wait for the next book.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
The story continues with Frank still missing from the ranch and the other brothers trying to find him, meanwhile the debts continue to increase.
When two men turn up at the ranch on an allegedly surprise visit to their sister and from there it all goes to fast paced action. Just when you think you’ve got the story sorted another twist appears and keeps you in the edge.
Franks notes continue throughout the book providing depth to the story but his never ending schemes and plans just throw more questions as to what has happened.
Another great story with so much intrigue, I can’t wait for the next book.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I loved the suspense in this a all as the escape to the mine. It was different and a great excitement for me as the reader.
When Bella comes to Koolaroo Ranch needing escape from what's after her, she gets mixed up with Declan who's family owns the ranch.
When trouble comes it certainly comes. This had me reading fast to keep up with the action. Fast paced and such a thrill ride.
Declan and Bella have a slow build relationship but the attraction is definitely there from the very second they meet. But the danger is what slows them down.
Such a fantastic book, I can't rave highly enough. These two are such an amazing couple that I didn't want to leave when the book ended. So good!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
When Bella comes to Koolaroo Ranch needing escape from what's after her, she gets mixed up with Declan who's family owns the ranch.
When trouble comes it certainly comes. This had me reading fast to keep up with the action. Fast paced and such a thrill ride.
Declan and Bella have a slow build relationship but the attraction is definitely there from the very second they meet. But the danger is what slows them down.
Such a fantastic book, I can't rave highly enough. These two are such an amazing couple that I didn't want to leave when the book ended. So good!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 20, 2026
The mysteries of Koolaroo ranch keep giving. While Declan's siblings are out looking for their missing father, Declan has been finding odd entries in the ranch bookkeeping records. Now two men have shown up at the ranch to take Bella, their newest employee. Declan may doubt himself in some things, but he is definitely going to protect Bella with his life if necessary. As the dangers mount, more truths will come out for the ranch and those who live there. This book gives us a look into what Declan's life on the ranch has been like, and makes you care more about his outcome. Bella shows she is his equal in trying to protect those she cares about. The action is non-stop, and the attraction between Declan and Bella grows as they face everything the ranch throws at them. Once you start reading, you won't want to put it down as the story unfolds.
May 22, 2026
Talk about an addictive read!! This book is thrilling ride that will keep you glued to its pages. Action, passion, heart, secrets, attraction, and danger are the keys to this adventure.
Declan is the brother who everyone understimates, he carries ghosts from his past and is better at silence and numbers. Bella is the new cook in the ranch, she is sweet and caring and keeping a secret that could get her killed. Declan is attracted to Bella, so when her past comes back, he will uses his skills to hide and protect her. And oh boy, do they go through a major adventure from start to finish. The adrenaline of the chase combined with their attraction leads them to passion and a need to protect and support each other.
Be ready to stay up reading this book!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Declan is the brother who everyone understimates, he carries ghosts from his past and is better at silence and numbers. Bella is the new cook in the ranch, she is sweet and caring and keeping a secret that could get her killed. Declan is attracted to Bella, so when her past comes back, he will uses his skills to hide and protect her. And oh boy, do they go through a major adventure from start to finish. The adrenaline of the chase combined with their attraction leads them to passion and a need to protect and support each other.
Be ready to stay up reading this book!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Outback Escape keeps the adrenaline pumping from start to finish. Declan and Bella are thrown into a wild fight for survival, and there’s barely a moment to breathe.
Frank’s secrets come back to haunt them while Bella’s own demons come looking for blood. Things take a darker turn as unexpected truths surface, staining both of their lives in ways they never anticipated.
Even through the darkness, the banter between them shines. Watching them struggle to survive while still finding moments to steal kisses and laugh makes their connection feel even stronger.
Just when you think the danger is finally over, another brutal battle drags them deeper into the dark, but somehow, love still makes it worth it.
Frank’s secrets come back to haunt them while Bella’s own demons come looking for blood. Things take a darker turn as unexpected truths surface, staining both of their lives in ways they never anticipated.
Even through the darkness, the banter between them shines. Watching them struggle to survive while still finding moments to steal kisses and laugh makes their connection feel even stronger.
Just when you think the danger is finally over, another brutal battle drags them deeper into the dark, but somehow, love still makes it worth it.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Action packed is putting it lightly, it's pretty much nonstop action. Reminds me a little of the Indiana Jones movies with all the action. We start off with Bella's "brothers" arriving. Even though the hair on the back of Declan's neck stands up, he lets them in. All heck breaks loose and we are off. Bella has grit and snark and made me smile. Declan realizes he is not just the accountant, that he is a man of worth. More secrets come out and the underlying story continues on. This is a great series, and I am looking forward to the final 2 books. I received an advanced copy and freely share my honest thoughts and opinions. #OutbackEscape #KoolarooRanch #ElleJames #KendallTalbot #TwistedPagePress #Bookfunnel
Review of advance copy
I love that we pick up right where Outback Secrets left off. Declan is intriguing; he longs for more in life but is the numbers guy desperately trying to save the ranch. Bella is quite the mystery—you can tell she's running from someone. They both have this sweet attraction for each other.
Talk about terrifying suspense, this one definitely had my heart-pumping. The balance of high-stakes escape and subtle humor was absolutely perfect. And OMG, Declan with his throwing knives...whew that was a good laugh. The first book in the series blew me away and this one was just as good if not better! I can't wait to see what happens next and keep uncovering the secrets at Koolaroo Ranch.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Talk about terrifying suspense, this one definitely had my heart-pumping. The balance of high-stakes escape and subtle humor was absolutely perfect. And OMG, Declan with his throwing knives...whew that was a good laugh. The first book in the series blew me away and this one was just as good if not better! I can't wait to see what happens next and keep uncovering the secrets at Koolaroo Ranch.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 20, 2026
Outback Escape by Elle James and Kendall Talbot is an exhilarating and heart-pounding continuation of this thrilling series. From the very first page, the action never lets up, keeping readers on the edge of their seats as the characters face one dangerous situation after another, where every choice could mean life or death.
What makes this story so compelling is how the characters not only survive but grow and flourish under the intense pressure and stress of their circumstances. Their true personalities and strengths shine through as they navigate peril, and the romance that blooms feels like a natural merging of ideals and goals. Love in this book isn’t a simple escape—it’s a partnership built in the heat of conflict and bonded by hard-earned trust.
Elle James and Kendall Talbot have done an outstanding job crafting a pulse-pounding adventure with emotional depth, captivating action, and a love story that feels both authentic and inspiring. Highly recommend to anyone who loves romantic suspense that keeps your heart racing. Well done!
What makes this story so compelling is how the characters not only survive but grow and flourish under the intense pressure and stress of their circumstances. Their true personalities and strengths shine through as they navigate peril, and the romance that blooms feels like a natural merging of ideals and goals. Love in this book isn’t a simple escape—it’s a partnership built in the heat of conflict and bonded by hard-earned trust.
Elle James and Kendall Talbot have done an outstanding job crafting a pulse-pounding adventure with emotional depth, captivating action, and a love story that feels both authentic and inspiring. Highly recommend to anyone who loves romantic suspense that keeps your heart racing. Well done!
June 6, 2026
Outback Escape is a fast paced romantic thriller which you won't be able to stop reading until the very last page. It features Declan, one of four brothers who own the KOOLAROO ranch, and is an accountant who keeps their books and the family's secrets, and Bella, a chef, who is running from her past and seeking employment at the ranch. Shortly after her hire, her pursuers find her which begins a heart-stopping chase through a diamond mine for Declan and Bella. Their slow burn romance has suspense, intrigue, secrets, Mafia action, and danger. This well written book will take you on a wild romantic adventure.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Outback Escape is the 2nd book in the Koolaroo Ranch series. It could be read as a standalone in a pinch, but I highly recommed reading them in order because of the underlying arc. Declan and Belle's story is full-stop action - with the romance developing almost as an afterthought. Prepare for chases over dangerous terrain, potentially deadly adventures in a diamond mine and some surprising revelations along the way. There's a steamy HFN ending for the couple, but the search for the siblings' missing father will continue. I received an early copy of this book and am leaving this review voluntarily and honestly.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I liked this book very much. It’s the second book in the series about the Koolaroo Ranch, in Australia. Declan is the bookkeeper at the ranch and Bella is the cook. When she came to the Koolaroo Ranch, no one knew that she was running from a dangerous past. When 2 hitmen show up at the ranch, Bella and Declan were the only ones at home. They were able to escape, but ran to an old, abandoned diamond mine on the ranch, where they hid, but the hitmen followed them. I received an ARC of this book for an honest review, and I loved it. There’s lots of action, adventure, suspense, romance, humor and angst in it. Declan and Bella are both very likeable characters. I recommend this book.
Review of advance copy received from Author
An exciting ride from start to finish as Bella and Declan run from mobsters and survive an adventure. A collapsed gold mine becomes a crazy nightmare and test of mental strength. As they search for a way out of the labrinth in the cave more secrets about Declan’s father Frank come to light. We learn about sweet Bella, the ranch cook, and how her secrets brought her to Koolaroo. There will be four books in the series, this is the second. I recommend reading in order to get the full story about Frank and the craziness descending upon his kids. I received an early copy to enjoy and voluntarily have written my review.
Review of advance copy
If you love the Alpha Tactical Ops and the Wolf Security Series you will love these new outback books! This is number 2 in the series and we learn all about Bella and why she came to the ranch. Fast paced action throughout the book means another page turner of a story that you won’t want to put down. Bella and Declan together are a force to be reckoned with when the mafia turn up at the ranch! Looking forward now to book 3 with Cassidy as the main character, and maybe, finding out a bit more about their father Frank and what has happened to him!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 19, 2026
Not only did the description of Bella's baked goods have me salivating but this book had you going almost from page 1. I was at the edge of my seat the entire time that Declan and Bella were escaping from the hitmen through the cow pastures. Just when they think they are safe they hit another hurdle and discover that the lift out of the mine has been sabotaged. Declan doesn't let that stop them from getting out of that mine though. The adventure and action doesn't end there. If you love Kendall Talbot's writing this is a must read. If you are just coming across her works start with book 1.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 19, 2026
Get a drink of choice, snacks and settle in because this is a heck of an action packed read! I do recommend reading the previous book the enhance this one because of the overarching plot. Declan is the accountant who steadily keeps the Koolaroo Ranch running. Bella has come with secrets that eventually catch up to her. Suddenly, Declan and Bella find themselves on a run for survival. From there family dynamics, danger, adventure, suspense, action, secrets and romance, left me turning the pages until the end. So excited for the next in this well written series!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 20, 2026
Book 2 of KOOLAROO RANCH.
'OUTBACK ESCAPE is a high-stakes romantic thriller featuring forced proximity, deadly secrets, a quiet hero pushed to his breaking point, and a slow-burn love forged in darkness where one wrong step means death.'
The characters were very complex and complicated and absolutely perfect together. Plot was intriguing and exciting and well paced. World building was excellent and impressive. All in all a great addition to the series. Enjoyed immensely and highly recommend.
Grab a copy, kick back and enjoy!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
'OUTBACK ESCAPE is a high-stakes romantic thriller featuring forced proximity, deadly secrets, a quiet hero pushed to his breaking point, and a slow-burn love forged in darkness where one wrong step means death.'
The characters were very complex and complicated and absolutely perfect together. Plot was intriguing and exciting and well paced. World building was excellent and impressive. All in all a great addition to the series. Enjoyed immensely and highly recommend.
Grab a copy, kick back and enjoy!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 22, 2026
Action and Thrills, Danger and Death, Hopelessness and Fate,
Hatred and Love, Despair and Happiness, Truth and Satisfaction.....
This book 2 of the Outback Series has it all, and leaves me with not enough words to describe it - it’s like trying to explain how great the best thing a person has ever tasted when it’s just indescribable!
Book 1 was so good I didn't think it could be matched, BUT book 2, well for me, it’s another over-the-top 5 stars! I cannot imagine how these two authors will top this 2nd story of the Koolaroo Ranch family, but I just want to say, Yesss! Please! Bring it on - Book 3!
Hatred and Love, Despair and Happiness, Truth and Satisfaction.....
This book 2 of the Outback Series has it all, and leaves me with not enough words to describe it - it’s like trying to explain how great the best thing a person has ever tasted when it’s just indescribable!
Book 1 was so good I didn't think it could be matched, BUT book 2, well for me, it’s another over-the-top 5 stars! I cannot imagine how these two authors will top this 2nd story of the Koolaroo Ranch family, but I just want to say, Yesss! Please! Bring it on - Book 3!
May 28, 2026
Declan saves Bella’s life when two strangers come to the ranch saying that they are her brothers and then try to kill her. Declan takes her to the closed diamond mine and try to escape the assassins. Here he finds out why Bella was running. He also finds out how bad his father was. I also realized that the authors give you a brief an overview about what will happen in the next book. In book one you learn about Frank making fake olive oil. In this book you find out what happened when he did this. I would recommend reading this book.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Bella came to Koolaroo Ranch to escape and hide from her past. When a couple of men showed up looking for her, she knew she was in danger. Declan became instantly involved protecting Bella. They found themselves running and fighting for their lives. From being chased across the ranch into an old mine, the danger increased, but so did the connection between them. Get ready for nonstop suspense, narrow escapes, steamy moments, and more secrets revealed.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review of advance copy
Totally loved Declan and Bella in the previous book. Declan has been ground down by his abusive father his whole life. He sees himself as a failure whereas Bella sees a kind man who turns into a hero in her hour of need. More of the family secrets are revealed in Frank's diary. Loads of twists and turns and some of the mystery around the failing mine is uncovered as they desperately fight to survive trapped in the mine. Action packed and full of danger with a side dose of humour. Brilliant.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 22, 2026
Great story. Declan has been attracted to Belle. When two men show up at the ranch looking for Belle, he lets danger into the house. The men are assassins and are determined to take Belle with them. Declan defends her and they end up running from the men into the decommissioned mine with the men chasing them. This book is full of drama, danger, new insight into Declan's father, strong emotions and a happy ending. I look forward to reading the next book in the series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
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