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Sunrise at Sunny Cross Farm

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In the heart of rural South Australia, two people must confront their pasts and trust each other to take centre stage in a love story that's all their own.

'Maya shines a light on rural romance and celebrates storytelling that makes the heart sing and smiles abound.' Graziher Magazine

Spencer Hawkins never expected to find himself in front of a reality TV crew, let alone as a contestant on Love on the Land. Widowed and cautious, Spencer joins the show to shake up his quiet life as an English teacher and a bee-keeper, but the cameras bring chaos and scripted drama, leaving him questioning whether he's truly ready to risk loving again.

Clem Crossley is busy enough with her new farm gate café, her sunflower-filled property, and raising her two daughters without adding romance to the mix. When her café is unexpectedly called in to cater for the TV crew, she sees a different side of Spencer—he's clearly out of his depth.

Their paths cross again when Harriet Crossley signs up to perform in the Penwarra Players' annual theatre production. Somehow between rogue guinea pigs, a troublesome new employee and a side-hustle that's more work than joy, Clem finds more than friendship, considering his excess baggage.

As the TV show airs, misleading edits and small-town gossip threaten to undo the bond they've built. Clem, fiercely protective of her daughters, begins to wonder if Spencer is another risk she can't afford.

Set in the heart of rural South Australia, Spencer and Clem must confront their pasts and trust each other to take centre stage in a love story that's all their own.

384 pages, Paperback

Published June 2, 2026

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About the author

Maya Linnell

8 books179 followers
From country show baking to raising orphaned lambs, bestselling author Maya Linnell writes about the life she lives and loves. A keen bookworm, former rural journalist and radio presenter, Maya has six rural fiction titles published with Allen & Unwin - Wallaby Lane, Kookaburra Cottage, Paperbark Hill, Magpie's Bend, Bottlebrush Creek and Wildflower Ridge.

She lives with her family in rural Queensland, writes to the soundtrack of kookaburras, and relies on copious amounts of tea and chocolate to fuel her days at the keyboard.

Maya was shortlisted in the 2021, 2020 and 2019 Aus Romance Reader Association awards for categories including Favourite Australian Romance Author, Favourite Debut Author and Favourite Australian-set novel and her novels have consistently made bestseller lists and the Better Reading Top 100.

Follow Maya on Instagram @maya.linnell.writes

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews
Profile Image for Helen.
3,043 reviews81 followers
June 8, 2026
I loved this one so much Maya Linnell never disappoints me with her stories they are filled with so much heart and awesome characters and beautiful settings and the food is always good, it was just so good being back on the Limestone Coast catching up with friends we have met before and meeting new ones, throw in a reality TV show and this is one that is sure to keep you turning the pages.

Spencer Hawkins loves his job as an English teacher and being a bee-keeper he is a widower and stays close to the farm where he lives with his in-laws but a promise made to his wife sees him before the cameras as a contestant on Love on the Land will Spencer find love again?

Clem Crossley is a divorced mother of two little girls she is putting everything she has into running her Farm Gate Café at the gates of Sunny Cross Farm where she grows sunflowers, Clem has been through a lot and finding love or even looking for it is not on the cards but when she is called to do the catering for the TV production she soon sees a side of Spencer that she has never seen before.

When her daughter Harriet signs up for the Penwarra Players annual play and Clem also volunteers to help on the school camp, Clem and Spencer are spending more time in each others company and are drawn to each other in ways neither really though would happen again, could there be a chance for love for both of them or will things in their past and the TV show put a stop to what could be?

This is a beautiful story, moving and emotional, yes there were tears from me as they open up about their pasts and the author has taken on some issues that are deeply emotional and she has done it so well with care and empathy, I loved the characters who are in this one Harriet and Indie Clem’s daughters they are the best and they made me smile, I do highly recommend this one, a truly beautiful story, thank you MS Linnell.

My thanks to Allen & Unwin AU and Netgalley for my copy to read and review.
Profile Image for Suzanne.
750 reviews151 followers
June 15, 2026
Maya is one of my auto buy authors. In this one she touches on some very sensitive subjects such as PND, and voluntary assisted dying. She does so with respect and care.

This is a book about heartbreak, trust, and second chances.

This romance is a slow burner. They just needed to communicate more. The chemistry and spark was definitely there.

What I loved about this book is the way Maya writes. She always transports me to another place and makes me forget what I should be doing.
Profile Image for beccabeccabooks.
997 reviews33 followers
August 14, 2026
I'm sure that I've said this before, but I'll say it again. Reading a Maya Linnell book is like receiving a warm hug.

Can you tell that I'm a fan of Maya's writing? I've read every one of her books and loved them all... But Sunrise at Sunny Cross Farm has to be amongst my favourites.

Set on South Australia's Limestone Coast ( in the township of Penwarra), we join our two main leads, Spencer and Clem.

Spence is a widower who's trying his hand at the reality dating game on Love on the Land. More of an educator than farmer, he's keen to gloss over that fact to recapture the connection he once had with late wife, Belle. Needless to say, Spence is the odd one out here but that doesn't stop the fawning over and media attention he's grabbing!

Clem is a single mother of two girls, Harriet and Indi. Being burnt before in the love stakes, she's focused on building up her little cafe and raising her daughters. Her and Spence really haven't crossed paths before, yet a catering opportunity for the show allows them to get to know another much better.

Both Clem and Spence are dealing with some pretty serious personal issues, ones that need to be properly addressed before that can commit to another. Then there's the matter of keeping their relationship hush hush until the final episode airs!!

There's something comforting about stepping back into this world for a while. It's familiar and fresh at the same time. Maya's rich community spirit shines through once again, and the happy sunflower theme weaves through perfectly.

The reality show element was an absolute highlight- it was fun watching the drama play out! Another huge highlight for me was Clem's two girls. The eldest, Harriet is starting to find her place in the world, landing a starring role in the community theatres latest production. Little Indi is a real cutie, and a mischievous one too! Her antics kept making me smile. Then there's the troublesome hamster, Orange Peel and Spence's loyal beagle, Dolly to keep the animal lovers turning the pages.

This deserves the five star rating and then some! I can't wait to see what Maya comes up with next.

5 🌟
Profile Image for Janene.
124 reviews14 followers
June 7, 2026
I have loved all of Maya Linnell’s books, and Sunrise at Sunny Cross Farm was another wonderful read.

Spencer and Clem are both easy characters to care about, and I enjoyed watching their relationship develop throughout the story. Their personal challenges and past experiences added depth to the romance, making it feel genuine and believable.

The rural South Australian setting was beautifully portrayed, and the strong sense of community is one of the things I always enjoy in Maya’s books. The reality TV storyline added an interesting twist, while the family dynamics, friendships, and small-town atmosphere gave the story plenty of heart.

Warm, uplifting, and full of memorable characters, this is a lovely rural romance that kept me turning the pages.

I thoroughly enjoyed it and look forward to Maya Linnell’s next book. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Profile Image for Cindy Spear.
672 reviews49 followers
June 11, 2026
What a heart-warming story! Maya Linnell’s passion, care and reverence for rural living shines through her novels and Sunrise and Sunny Cross Farm beams with these fundamental ethical values and virtues. Family, friendship, nature and community are always important elements in her stories and true to form we see both the blessing and struggles that surround these necessities of life. So many aspects of country living I can appreciate, having grown up in a small settlement in Canada where potential isolation is a reality. The need for support is great and sometimes hard to access but members of small country communities can offer wonderful help to each other. As we have seen in this novel and others by Maya.

The story is set in South Australia in what is known as the Limestone Coast. I have never been there but Maya once again paints such a stunning picture that I want to visit it. I particularly loved all the gorgeous flower descriptions and the delicious food references. The author’s own cooking and gardening skills shine through and add an exquisite glow to the story’s core.

The opening scene at Clem’s café with scones steaming and butter melting over them, certainly set off my taste buds! ‘Pure therapy’ as one character said. From page one you feel the warmth and charm of the community. Their usual activity is not deterred by a little cool weather as they still meet up for their brunch. As Maya perfectly puts it ‘friends fiercely protected this tradition, scheduling an hour each week in between farms, kids and careers to talk about books and life, health and heartache.’ Such a cosy, inviting and warm response from the opening page shows the closeness, familiarity and comfortableness they share. The rest of the delicious food conversation made me want to go and bake a carrot cake or taste the other scrumptious foods described. And there are plenty of mouth-watering treats that Clem serves up in her cordial café where everyone loves to meet.

Besides having the café business at Sunny Gate Farm, Clem is a single mom with two daughters. She has a lot on her plate to juggle but when offered a catering job for Love on the Land she accepts. Little does she know how much this opportunity is going to change her life. For here she meets widower Spencer Hawkins, who is a contestant on the show. Although Spencer is not a farmer (as is often the case with these sorts of programs), he is an English teacher and keeps bees. But now he has five women trying to win his heart on this reality show with everyone watching. Is this something he is comfortable with? Not really and things don’t go so well. Except he meets Clem here and she affects him in ways he never expected. These two navigate their way through various issues including fears and worries about communication, commitment and potential heartbreak. But it is a gentle romance that manages to survive the traumas and losses they each have experienced in the past.

Differences of opinions on sensitive topics are displayed in Sunrise and Sunny Cross Farm. We learn not to judge too quickly decisions others make—even when it affects those around them. Nobody could ever truly know how the other feels and what each of us would do in life and death situations. VAD (Voluntary Assisted Dying) is one of those controversial topics played out in a couple of characters’ lives who had a terminal illness. Maya handles it with great tact and respectfulness. Clem is not as forgiving initially with Spencer who played a role in his wife’s passing—until she must face it in a closer, more personal context.

Another difficult condition explored in the novel is postpartum psychosis. It’s a severe psychiatric condition that causes delusions, confusion and hallucinations. Basically a patient loses touch with reality. We see the fear and havoc it can cause through main character Clem Crossley. It is easy to imagine how frightening this would be to lose control of your faculties. But Maya once again tastefully and caringly addresses another sensitive topic and puts us not only in the observer’s seat but also inside the character’s heart and mind to feel what she is experiencing.

Sunrise and Sunny Cross Farm has a great cast of characters, main and supporting and I enjoyed the relationship building and positive developments and growth seen in each. We all have ‘grey zones’ in our history that Clem speaks about and we all need second chances or even third or fourth sometimes! And we need people to have compassion and understanding when we stumble or when we are trying to work out our thoughts on big topics.

There is no doubt that Maya Linnell has made a mark on the rural fiction landscape. Her stories are warm, tender and truthful. It is also obvious her own compassion and empathy for others is seen in her characters. She is a passionate writer who can draw out the beauty of a land or seascape while showing us her deep understanding of human nature: and everyone’s need for love, family, home and acceptance. And in this case, added to these, is her talent for cooking and gardening that provide delightful and uplifting bonuses to Sunrise and Sunny Cross Farm. Without question, this is a beautiful, bold and triumphant story that draws upon the raw, unfiltered, unlovely bits of human frailty but then delivers up a positive message that love can transform any wounded heart. 5 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Thanks to Allen & Unwin for a review copy.
Profile Image for Craig and Phil.
2,474 reviews154 followers
June 9, 2026
Big thanks to Allen & Unwin for sending us a copy to read and review.
Maya Linnell is one of this country’s leading rural fiction authors and her books are filled with authenticity, warmth, honesty, relevance and love.
Sunrise At Sunny Cross Farm is her eighth novel and another winner in my eyes.
Clem Crossley is busy running her property cafe, parenting her two daughters and she doesn’t believe romance is for her.
Spencer Hawkins is a widower and about to appear on the latest season of a rural dating show.
But as the two form a romantic bond, the community, tv program and life cause ruckus and the two must face the past to move forward.
Maya’s storytelling and writing style is engaging, heartwarming and a true delight.
I loved the scenes between Clem and her daughters, Harriet and Indi.
These were, at times, comical but most of all tender and lovely.
The relationship between the three was awesome.
Clem’s story is an emotional one.
The plot, the characters and the setting all woven together make for a great story.
A cozy and enjoyable read from start to finish.
Profile Image for Anna Loder.
831 reviews62 followers
August 7, 2026
Could not have loved Sunrise at Sunny Cross Farm more. Maya Linnell is an autobuy for me, and that feeling of ‘it couldn’t possibly be as good as you thought it was last year..hang on no it’s even better..omg this is the best Maya Linnell ever’ is next level!
Sunrise at Sunny Cross Farm is just a delight from page one; a cafe, a sunflower farm and a reality TV show..I was there for Clem and Spencer’s love story, such a slow burn with all the feels. Loved being back on the limestone coast, checking in with old friends and making new ones
I adore everything about the Maya Linnell rural fiction; gorgeous characters, beautiful locations and oh my goodness so much to think about.
Profile Image for Karren  Sandercock .
1,441 reviews447 followers
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
April 19, 2026
South Australia. Spencer Hawkins is a widower, he never expected to be contestant on Love on the Land and they assure him it’s not like the other infamous show where couples take part in an experiment and get married. Spencer isn’t a farmer, he’s an English teacher at Penwarra Area School, and a part time bee-keeper, and now the centre of attention at South Giddi Giddi and with five single ladies vying for his heart and whole crew observing.

Clem Crossley is juggling being the mum of two young daughters, her café at Sunny Gate Farm, one staff member is being difficult, she’s very aware of the statistics for new businesses failing and she doesn't want any bad feedback. Clem is unexpectedly called into cater for the show, she sees Spencer in a different light and he’s floundering like a fish out of water.

Harriet Crossley applies to perform in the Penwarra Players' yearly production produced by Ian and Louisa Brealy, Spencer helps his late wife's parents with the script writing and making the sets. Clem is determined for her daughters not miss out on important experiences, like after school activities, sports, hobbies, camps and joining the theatre.

Love on the Land airs, Spencer has signed a non-disclosure contract, the way they edit the program is misleading and he can't tell anyone how it ends. Clem and Spencer are attracted to each other, but she’s wondering if they have any hope of having a relationship, when, and will she have her heart broken again?

I received a copy of Sunrise at Sunny Cross Farm by Maya Linnell from Allen & Unwin and NetGalley in exchange for a review. This is the fourth book set in the Limestone Coast and of course this time it’s Clementine and Spencer’s turn to be in the spotlight.

I really liked the supporting characters as well, Clem’s daughters Harriet and little scribbling Indi, her grandfather Arthur and aunty Jean, brother Jack and partner Lauren, friends Mia and Hazel, Kev and Sebastian, Spencer’s in-laws Ian and Louisa, Dolly the schools well-being dog; they add different layers and points of view to the well written narrative and which is woven together perfectly.

Ms Linnell is known for including social topics in her stories and we need to show compassion and empathy towards people suffering from issues such as, post-natal depression and post-natal psychosis; terminal illness and VAD, loss of a spouse and how hard it is, stages of grief and feeling guilty about moving on, living in a small country town, the community spirit and how the gossip grapevine works.

Five stars from me, another must read by one of my favourite Australian rural romance authors and I highly recommend.
Profile Image for Nerelle Donnelly.
265 reviews6 followers
August 25, 2026
You come for the sunflowers, stay for the coffee and get captivated by the story….

This is a rural romance story of second chances, found family, troubled pasts and hopeful futures as we follow along with Clem Crossley, a mum, café owner and a woman determined to forge ahead for her two daughters, and Spencer Hawkins, a teacher, apiarist, widower, out of his depth as he takes part in a TV reality show.

A vast array of characters gives this book a life of its own. From the two main protagonists that have their share of baggage and hurdles to cross, not to mention a sexual tension you could cut a knife with, the loyal workers at the café, well okay one maybe not so much, two very animated and highly energetic daughters, and all the family and friends that have a closeness you often see in a small community.

It was so nice getting to revisit the Limestone Coast and peek back into the lives of many loveable characters that Maya has introduced us to in earlier books, while watching the events and circumstances that shape Clem and Spencer’s lives.

With sunflower paddocks, beautiful coastline and a gorgeous rural setting, you can’t help but fall in love with Sunny Cross Farm, Penwarra and all the surrounding area. It really does make you feel like you’re coming home.

There are so many moments that brought a smile to my face, and a giggle from my lips, but at the same time there are lots of deeper moments, and some that touch on some very sensitive themes, but I found that this gives the story a real depth showing us that even though things are not always smooth sailing, there can be moments of light and laughter.

I thoroughly enjoyed Sunrise at Sunny Cross Farm. An easy and entertaining read that will have you kicking back and relaxing with the sunflowers. Even the bees are friendly at the Limestone Coast.

#sunriseatsunnycrossfarm
#mayalinnell
#sunflowerandbees
#allenandunwin
Profile Image for Brenda.
5,331 reviews3,048 followers
June 1, 2026
4.5s

Clementine (Clem) Crossley and her two daughters - eight year old Harriet and three year old Indi - were busy in their lives in the small South Australian town of Penwarra. Clem had her new farm gate cafe up and running, beside the paddock of sunflowers which were a drawcard all on their own. She was also preparing the old coffee van to start appearing at the markets and other events where there would be plenty of tourists. Harri was chosen at the school to be in the Penwarra Players' annual theatre production play at the end of the year, and was both elated and terrified.

The teacher at the Penwarra school - Spencer Hawkins - was loved by the pupils, and played an intricate part in the organisation of the play. He was a widow, with his wife Belle having died some years previously. Signing up to the TV show - Love on the Land - had seemed a good idea at the time, but as the months rolled on, he knew, without a doubt, that he'd made the wrong decision. As Spencer & Clem found themselves in each other's company more often than not, their friendship turned to more. But because of the TV show, nothing could be said. What would be the outcome for these country people; the town they loved, the people who cared...

Sunrise at Sunny Cross Farm is the latest rural romance by Aussie author Maya Linnell with an intriguing plot, a focus on loss and heartbreak, decisions made that didn't want to be made; along with trust and second chances. I enjoyed it very much and recommend it highly.

With thanks to NetGalley & Allen & Unwin AU for my digital ARC to read and review.
Profile Image for Joanne McKinnon.
71 reviews3 followers
July 15, 2026
Sunrise at Sunny Cross Farm

This was a lovely story, although I found it a little slow to get into at the beginning. Once it found its rhythm, I was drawn into this heartfelt rural romance filled with warmth, hope and authentic country charm.
Set against the stunning backdrop of rural South Australia, Sunrise at Sunny Cross Farm is an emotional story of grief, healing and second chances.
Clem Crossley is a divorced mother of two young daughters who pours her heart into running her Farm Gate Café at Sunny Cross Farm, where she grows beautiful sunflowers. Finding love is the last thing on her mind.

Spencer Hawkins is a widowed English teacher and passionate beekeeper. He lives near the family farm with his in-laws, but a promise to his late wife leads him to become a contestant on Love on the Land.

When Clem is hired to cater for the television production, she begins to see a side of Spencer she’d never noticed before. As her daughter Harriet joins the Penwarra Players’ annual production and Clem volunteers on the school camp, Clem and Spencer find themselves spending more time together. Slowly, they develop a connection that neither of them expected.

I especially loved the relationship Spencer formed with Clem’s two young daughters. His kindness and patience added so much heart to the story.

I also appreciated the way the author sensitively explored the important topics of postnatal psychosis and voluntary assisted dying. These are difficult but significant issues, and they were handled with compassion and understanding, highlighting the profound impact they can have on individuals and families.

Overall, this is a touching and uplifting rural romance about finding hope again after loss, with memorable characters and plenty of country charm.
370 reviews10 followers
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
May 20, 2026
☕️🐝 Sunrise at Sunny Cross Farm by Maya Linnell 🐝☕️

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Between heartbreak and hope, Maya reminds us that even the hardest seasons can still lead to sunrise.

This was a beautiful, emotional and deeply compassionate read that completely captured my heart.

While this story delivers the warmth, community and rural charm Maya is so loved for, it also explores heavier topics with incredible care, sensitivity and humanity. These storylines were handled so thoughtfully, never overshadowing the hope woven throughout the novel, but instead adding emotional depth and authenticity that made the story even more powerful.

Her characters felt real, flawed and deeply relatable, and I found myself completely immersed in their lives from beginning to end.

There were moments that made me smile, moments that broke my heart, and moments that reminded me just how healing stories can be.

This is rural fiction at its absolute finest, some stories don’t just touch your heart, they leave a mark on it, and this was definitely one of those stories, Sunrise at Sunny Cross Farm is out June 2, and there’s still time to preorder or grab yourself a copy on release day.

Trust me, this is one you’ll want on your shelves.

💛 A big thank you to NetGalley and Allen & Unwin for this gifted e-copy.
Profile Image for Janine.
781 reviews68 followers
June 19, 2026
Once again Maya brings us an engaging story this time set around Love on the Land - a reality tv show which newly widowed Spencer is encouraged to participate in to try and mend his broken heart after the death of his wife. On the other hand we have Clem who runs a local cafe and sunflower farm who is now single with two little girls. Worlds collide when she wins a contract to cater for the tv series who,at in production in the area and she meets Spencer. But love never goes smoothly also with a runaway hamster on the loose, a hormonal teenager working in the cafe dropping more plates than serving them and mysterious accidents with Clem’s new coffee van all add up to a page turning story.

We read about the challenges of running a local theatre company and the process of bee keeping along with some tough topics which were handled with care and respect. Another winner from this lovely writer who I have no hesitation in recommending.

Thanks go to Allen & Unwin for sending a copy of this book for review purposes.
290 reviews14 followers
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
May 30, 2026
Clem’s story is one that has an emotional impact that affects the people in her life.

Spencer has been through some rough moments and is starting to move forward.

Spencer is featuring on a TV reality show Love on the Land. He’s fulfilling a promise he made. His emotions are being played with, and he’s unsure if this is what he wants.

Clem is busy working in her cafe, raising her daughters and wanting to further herself within the community. Little by little things start to go wrong, until Clem finally realises what is wrong.

Spencer and Clem, become friends and talk about life. Both have different views on things and both question whether things could work out between them after trying to hide things from the prying eyes of the community.

This book has some upsetting elements, that are mentioned, but outing these issues and who can help is a major focus in the book.

Thanks to NetGalley for letting me give an honest review of this book.
693 reviews4 followers
June 25, 2026
A gut wrenching, emotional and high octane rural romance between business owner Clem Crossley (of Sunny Cross Farm Cafe) and actor and history teacher (also farmer) Spencer Hawkins and the ways in which they meet and interact with each other.
Clem first meets Spencer when he helps her out of an awkward and slightly embarrassing guinea pig situation and the banter and well as the time they spend together (once Spencer wraps up his time on the local reality romances show Love on the Land) and even though they go through ups and downs as well as misunderstandings along the way they ultimately give into their true feelings for each other.
It was also really sweet in the ways in which Spencer interacted with Clem's two young daughters 8 year old Harriet and 3 year old Indi with such a beautiful and memorable ending.
A huge thankyou to Netgalley and Allen and Unwin for an arc.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Emily (the_bookdragons_den).
378 reviews21 followers
June 3, 2026
I love a good Australian rural romance and Sunrise at Sunny Cross Farm by Maya Linnel is a beautiful addition to the genre. Heartwarming, emotional and compassionate it is a story of trust and second chances that I thoroughly enjoyed.

I love reading about small towns and the characters that call them home and I felt like community was at the heart of this novel, with the cafe and community theatre settings. It always feels like the cast of characters wrap you in a warm hug and bring you into their fold as you read. This book was no exception with its warm and relatable writing style.

There are some heavy topics driving the narrative, but I felt Linnel handled these with care and compassion, balancing light and dark beautifully into the overall story arc.

Sunrise at Sunny Cross Farm is an emotional and engaging read with community and friendship at its core that it will linger long after you’ve finished reading. Loved it.

Thank you to Allen & Unwin for a copy to review.
Profile Image for Shelagh.
1,887 reviews25 followers
June 23, 2026
Sunrise At Sunnycross Farm is a highly emotional story in which both Clem and Spencer have to come to terms with get-wrenching backstory. Set On The South Australian Limestone Coast, the book is a story of second chances for both of them, but the journey to their happy ever after is a long one as Spencer goes through the painful process of being a contestant in reality TV show Love On The Land. The imagery is excellent throughout and Clem’s two children are poppets. On the down side, for me at least, the story dragged in the middle and there were an awful lot of characters, many of whom I thought were surplerfluous to needs. I frequently had to check who the characters were and how did they relate to each other. Aside from that, I like Maya Linnell’s writing overall and I did enjoy this story.
Profile Image for Adventures with Shelle (Rochelle Kentish).
107 reviews13 followers
June 16, 2026
What first caught my attention about this book was the beautiful cover and sweet sounding title. But if you think this is just another romance book, you are in for a surprise. Maya Linnell tackles the sensitive subjects of voluntary assisted dying and PND with compassion and sensitivity.
I loved the descriptions in this book and I felt like I truly was transported to be part of the story. A beautiful story about love, heartbreak, trust and second chances. I am looking forward to reading more books by this author.
Thank you to the Publisher and Netgalley for the ARC in return for an honest review.
Profile Image for Nicole West.
395 reviews19 followers
August 31, 2026
When I read a novel by Maya, my heart is full, and I never want the book to end.

Spencer loves his job as teacher and part-time bee keeper. His widow status has thrown him into a reality TV show called "Love On the Land" through a promise and a little push from his in-laws.

A local cafe owner and sunflower property keeps Clem busy, and with two daughters, the balance of life is hard sometimes.

Through a busy, challenging rural town, a bond of trust needs to be made to mend past hurts. Will Spencer and Clem be able to make amends to move forward in their life.

Another beautiful heartfelt emotional read touching on real-life issues.

Loved reading 📚 ❤️
148 reviews1 follower
August 14, 2026
I am a fan of Maya Linnell books she just has the right feelings for her writing about these women who have intertwined lives with their neighbours, customers, people working for them and of course their children and families.
Sunrise at Sunny Cross Farm was fun and a good read.
I especially liked the way the whole family and step families were involved.
You will just have to read about the donuts.
I had to request it for the Moe Library and like last time everyone wanted to READ Maya's book.
Profile Image for Ann-Maree.
1,227 reviews11 followers
June 13, 2026
Sunrise at Sunny Cross Farm
by Maya Linnell

Reading this book felt exactly like being on the set of Farmer Wants a Wife. I loved the fun television show element and how it contrasted with the authentic small-town setting. The author does a fantastic job of creating a wonderful community feel, and the secondary characters really brought the whole story to life. If you love sweet second-chance romances with plenty of heart and a great local setting, definitely pick this one up!
Profile Image for Lakinloveslit.
600 reviews16 followers
July 5, 2026
I usually adore Maya Linnell’s books but this one just didn’t do it for me :( I don’t know if it was just my mood or what, but it felt a bit clunky - the chapters seemed really long and it felt like it jumped around and had lots of unnecessary filler. I didn’t really care for Spencer or Clem (though I adored Clem’s two daughters) and I didn’t really feel any chemistry. Will still continue to read anything Maya writes though!!
355 reviews2 followers
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
April 27, 2026
Another great rural romance read from Maya Linnell. It was beautifully written and heartwarming. You always feel the love of the family, friendship and community in Maya’s book. Thank you NetGalley and to the publisher Allen& Unwin for the ARC.
93 reviews1 follower
August 17, 2026
Cleverly weaving a number of social issues with believable characters. I have read all her books
and it’s nice to see some characters again. Always love the animals that appear and the familiar settings.
123 reviews
June 9, 2026
Loved this so much . Heading back to Wallaby Lane to re read and refresh my memory on Clems story. And Farmer Wants a Wife just happens to be starting for 2026. Thanks for another great read ❤️
Profile Image for Cookie1.
612 reviews5 followers
June 16, 2026
An enjoyable read except for saying that one of the farmers on the show was harvesting in Joondulup, Western Australia. Joondalup, Western Australia is a city suburb of Perth.
Profile Image for Leah Emeny.
30 reviews1 follower
June 28, 2026
Another outstanding 5⭐️ review. Enjoyed Sunrise at Sunny Cross and all the capers of Spencer and Clem in South Giddi Giddi. High praise to author Maya Linnell on another fabulous novel.
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12 reviews
July 16, 2026
Another perfect story from Maya Linnell. I love her characters and interesting rural settings. Always a great day when I slot one of her new books at the bookstore.
Profile Image for Jodie (Sunshinejode) W.
176 reviews2 followers
July 31, 2026
I always love reading one of Maya's books as it is like a nice big hug and this time we returned to the Limestone Coast region for Clem's story (Jack's Sister) who had featured in a previous book - Wallaby Lane. Even though these stories have returning characters they can all be read as standalones.

Maya is definitely one of the Queens of Rural Romance and I absolutely loved this book! This story centred on Clem and her two daughters, her farm gate cafe and her beautiful Sunflower farm. She is trying to build her business and is excited when she picks up the catering gig for the TV shooting Love on the Land.

Spencer, a widower whose wife passed away 5 years ago decides to be a contestant on Love on the Land. A quiet passionate school teacher with an inherited love for beekeeping thanks to his late wife, he does ponder if he made the right choice signing up! Is he even ready to meet someone let alone choose a life partner?

I loved the storyline, the mixed messages, the longing but more than anything I loved how Spencer cared when Clem needed support. I am a huge lover of Farmer wants a Wife (older version of the show) so I also enjoyed this element of the storyline. Maya also writes sensitively about serious topics. In this book she discusses both Post-natal psychosis and voluntary-assisted dying. I had a friend suffer from Post-natal psychosis and it is a relatively unknown illness so to be able to spread awareness via her storytelling is both personal and impactful as Maya also shared her story in the acknowledgements.

I have loved all of Maya's books but I think this one is my favourite. It was a 5 Star read for me - I highly recommend it. Thank you to Maya and Allen and Unwin for the opportunity to read and review this book.
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