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Close to Home
A captivating story that shows the only thing harder than letting go is moving on.
Orphaned at thirteen, Charlie Anderson has been on her own for half her life. Not that she minds - she has her work as a vet and most days that's enough. Most days. But when she's sent to a small town on the New South Wales coast to investigate a possible outbreak of the deadly Hendra virus, Charlie finds herself torn between the haunting memories of her past, her dedication to the job and her attraction to a handsome local.
Travelling to Naringup means coming face to face with what is left of her dysfunctional family - her cousin Emma, who begged Charlie not to leave all those years ago, and her aunt Hazel, who let her go without a backwards glance. But it also means relying on the kindness of strangers and, when she meets local park ranger Joel Drummond, opening her heart to the possibility of something more . . .
As tensions in the country town rise, can Charlie reconcile with the past and find herself a new future in the town she left so long ago?
Orphaned at thirteen, Charlie Anderson has been on her own for half her life. Not that she minds - she has her work as a vet and most days that's enough. Most days. But when she's sent to a small town on the New South Wales coast to investigate a possible outbreak of the deadly Hendra virus, Charlie finds herself torn between the haunting memories of her past, her dedication to the job and her attraction to a handsome local.
Travelling to Naringup means coming face to face with what is left of her dysfunctional family - her cousin Emma, who begged Charlie not to leave all those years ago, and her aunt Hazel, who let her go without a backwards glance. But it also means relying on the kindness of strangers and, when she meets local park ranger Joel Drummond, opening her heart to the possibility of something more . . .
As tensions in the country town rise, can Charlie reconcile with the past and find herself a new future in the town she left so long ago?
336 pages, Paperback
First published June 30, 2015
8 people are currently reading
443 people want to read
About the author
Pamela Cook
13 books120 followersPamela Cook is the author of five page-turning women’s fiction novels. Her stories feature flawed but strong women, tangled family relationships and deal with the complications of life. Her most recent novel, Cross My Heart (September 2019) is a haunting story of friendship, guilt and redemption set in the beautiful central west of New South Wales. Pamela's previous novels are Blackwattle Lake (2012) Essie’s Way (2013), Close To Home (2015) and The Crossroads (2016). Pamela is the co-host of the exciting new podcasts Writes4Women and Writes4Festivals, and is proud to be a Writer Ambassador for Room To Read, a not-for-profit organisation that promotes literacy and gender equality in developing countries. When she’s not writing, reading or podcasting she wastes as much time as possible riding her handsome quarter horses, Morocco and Rio.
She loves to connect with readers both in person and online:
www.pamelacook.com.au
www.facebook.com/PamelaCookAuthor
www.writes4women.com
Twitter @PamelaCookAU
Instagram @pamelacookwrites and @w4wpodcast
She loves to connect with readers both in person and online:
www.pamelacook.com.au
www.facebook.com/PamelaCookAuthor
www.writes4women.com
Twitter @PamelaCookAU
Instagram @pamelacookwrites and @w4wpodcast
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews
June 16, 2017
Four and a half stars.
After the death of her parents, Charlie Anderson went to live with her aunt Hazel and her cousin Emma in Naringup, a small town on the South coast of NSW. But conditions in that home are hard to cope with. Despite her deep bond with Emma, Charlie leaves when she turns eighteen. She has pretty much been a loner since. Living on the north coast she has not been back since, given the way things were with Emma when she left Naringup. That changes when working for the Department of Primary Industries as a vet, she is sent to Naringup to investigate an outbreak of the deadly Hendra virus. Her plan is to get in and out of town as quickly and quietly as possible. But those plans are soon thrown into disarray.
I found this an interesting read. As one who lives on the south coast, it was interesting to try and pinpoint exactly where this fictional town was situated and the small town it may have been at least partly based on. The setting was very well conveyed. The story deals with small town life and differences of viewpoints, family relationships, grief, forgiveness, domestic violence and a budding romance. It was all well-handled and eminently readable. I liked Charlie and Joel, the park ranger. And I really like Jac, the policer officer. She is a good friend to Charlie. There is one character in the story that people will despise for his actions and attitudes. If you are a horse lover or a lover of fruit bats, you may finds some of the scenes distressing. But they are necessary to the story. Pace is maintained throughout but pace picks up rapidly towards the climax of the story. I think this is an excellent read from another great Aussie author.
After the death of her parents, Charlie Anderson went to live with her aunt Hazel and her cousin Emma in Naringup, a small town on the South coast of NSW. But conditions in that home are hard to cope with. Despite her deep bond with Emma, Charlie leaves when she turns eighteen. She has pretty much been a loner since. Living on the north coast she has not been back since, given the way things were with Emma when she left Naringup. That changes when working for the Department of Primary Industries as a vet, she is sent to Naringup to investigate an outbreak of the deadly Hendra virus. Her plan is to get in and out of town as quickly and quietly as possible. But those plans are soon thrown into disarray.
I found this an interesting read. As one who lives on the south coast, it was interesting to try and pinpoint exactly where this fictional town was situated and the small town it may have been at least partly based on. The setting was very well conveyed. The story deals with small town life and differences of viewpoints, family relationships, grief, forgiveness, domestic violence and a budding romance. It was all well-handled and eminently readable. I liked Charlie and Joel, the park ranger. And I really like Jac, the policer officer. She is a good friend to Charlie. There is one character in the story that people will despise for his actions and attitudes. If you are a horse lover or a lover of fruit bats, you may finds some of the scenes distressing. But they are necessary to the story. Pace is maintained throughout but pace picks up rapidly towards the climax of the story. I think this is an excellent read from another great Aussie author.
October 2, 2016
3.5 stars
”It was one thing to put the past behind you, but it was another thing entirely to pretend that it never existed.”
You don’t need to be a horse lover to enjoy this story of letting go of the past and moving forward but it will definitely appeal to all horse lovers. Cook’s love of horses shines through in her writing.
Charlie is sent to Naringup to investigate a possible Hendra related horse death. The only problem is Naringup used to be the place she called home and when she left 15 years ago she vowed never to return.
The major plot tackles the serious issue of the deadly Hendra virus in the horse industry with minor plots of domestic violence and overcoming adversity. The introduction of Joel as a romantic interest and friend lightens up the heavy topics explored.
Definitely for readers who like a strong female lead but I feel Charlie was too work focused and at times came across as bombastic and heartless. She showed no empathy for the farmers and their plight.
I enjoy Pamela Cook’s writing style and I will certainly be reading her two previous novels. Blackwattle Creek and Essie’s Way.
With my thanks to Goodreads Giveaways and Hachette Aus for my copy to read and review.
”It was one thing to put the past behind you, but it was another thing entirely to pretend that it never existed.”
You don’t need to be a horse lover to enjoy this story of letting go of the past and moving forward but it will definitely appeal to all horse lovers. Cook’s love of horses shines through in her writing.
Charlie is sent to Naringup to investigate a possible Hendra related horse death. The only problem is Naringup used to be the place she called home and when she left 15 years ago she vowed never to return.
The major plot tackles the serious issue of the deadly Hendra virus in the horse industry with minor plots of domestic violence and overcoming adversity. The introduction of Joel as a romantic interest and friend lightens up the heavy topics explored.
Definitely for readers who like a strong female lead but I feel Charlie was too work focused and at times came across as bombastic and heartless. She showed no empathy for the farmers and their plight.
I enjoy Pamela Cook’s writing style and I will certainly be reading her two previous novels. Blackwattle Creek and Essie’s Way.
With my thanks to Goodreads Giveaways and Hachette Aus for my copy to read and review.
June 23, 2015
Working as a vet for the Department of Primary Industries was a job Charlie Anderson loved. She’d worked hard to get to the position she was in, and knew she was also good at her job. After losing her way for a little while when she was young – the death of her parents when she was thirteen was a major turning point in her life, and even now, in her late twenties, she still grieved for them at times. But her memories of the home she’d had after they died; with an aunt she hadn’t really known and her cousin Emma, who’d been like a sister to her; they were confused and clouded in her mind. So when Charlie was told she was needed in a little town called Naringup, south of Sydney, as there was a possible outbreak of the Hendra virus, she was horrified. But her refusal to take the job wasn’t an option…
As Charlie settled into the routine of tests on the horses at the property concerned, she was shocked to encounter anger and bullying from some of the locals. She realized the frustration of the unknown was getting to them, but the sooner the tests were run, the sooner they could contain the problem; if it even was a problem. Running into her cousin and aunt was also something Charlie hadn’t wanted to do – but a town the size of Naringup meant it was bound to happen.
Meeting Joel Drummond who was the local park ranger, she found a kindred spirit – but danger was around them, and not only from the possibility of a dangerous virus. Charlie was determined to do her job, and do it properly. But would she succeed? With the local police as back up and Joel by her side, she had to continue…
Close to Home is another brilliant novel by Aussie author Pamela Cook. I love her work – Blackwattle Lake and Essie's Way are the author’s first two and I thoroughly enjoyed them both. Close to Home evolved from the author’s involvement with horses and the discussions about the pros and cons of the Hendra vaccine. It is a wonderful story full of great descriptions of the rural environment plus small town people, with everything from strong characters, romance and tragedy. Entertainment plus which I have no hesitation in recommending highly.
With thanks to NetGalley and Hachette Australia for my copy to read and review.
As Charlie settled into the routine of tests on the horses at the property concerned, she was shocked to encounter anger and bullying from some of the locals. She realized the frustration of the unknown was getting to them, but the sooner the tests were run, the sooner they could contain the problem; if it even was a problem. Running into her cousin and aunt was also something Charlie hadn’t wanted to do – but a town the size of Naringup meant it was bound to happen.
Meeting Joel Drummond who was the local park ranger, she found a kindred spirit – but danger was around them, and not only from the possibility of a dangerous virus. Charlie was determined to do her job, and do it properly. But would she succeed? With the local police as back up and Joel by her side, she had to continue…
Close to Home is another brilliant novel by Aussie author Pamela Cook. I love her work – Blackwattle Lake and Essie's Way are the author’s first two and I thoroughly enjoyed them both. Close to Home evolved from the author’s involvement with horses and the discussions about the pros and cons of the Hendra vaccine. It is a wonderful story full of great descriptions of the rural environment plus small town people, with everything from strong characters, romance and tragedy. Entertainment plus which I have no hesitation in recommending highly.
With thanks to NetGalley and Hachette Australia for my copy to read and review.
October 2, 2016
Although Dr Charlie Anderson is based in Lismore, northern NSW, her boss Alex at the Department of Primary Industry has asked her to look into an alleged outbreak of Hendra virus in southern NSW, because of her advanced knowledge and expertise. Reluctantly she travels back to the town which she left under grim circumstances many years earlier, Naringup. She faces stiff opposition from the local community as she embarks on an investigation into a potentially fatal virus, not helped by her residual feelings about why Naringup was such a bad place for her in the past.
This is a light, easy read, in immediately accessible prose. The story is very straight-forward and the characters uncomplicated. The narrative is direct and moves logically to its conclusion. There are very few sub-plots and side-bars. I enjoyed reading the factual information about the mysterious Hendra virus and its implications. One might argue that the characters are drawn rather shallow, and there is not a lot of deep and meaningful insight into motives and backgrounds. The romance between Charlie and Parks and Wildlife Officer Joel is handled nicely, albeit with a very light touch. (I would have preferred a bit more steamy passion!) However there is enough in this book to make for an entertaining, laid-back read, that is enjoyable but does not tax the brain too much. Reading this at a time of great personal stress was refreshing and it served its purpose well, taking my mind off my troubles.
3.5★s
This is a light, easy read, in immediately accessible prose. The story is very straight-forward and the characters uncomplicated. The narrative is direct and moves logically to its conclusion. There are very few sub-plots and side-bars. I enjoyed reading the factual information about the mysterious Hendra virus and its implications. One might argue that the characters are drawn rather shallow, and there is not a lot of deep and meaningful insight into motives and backgrounds. The romance between Charlie and Parks and Wildlife Officer Joel is handled nicely, albeit with a very light touch. (I would have preferred a bit more steamy passion!) However there is enough in this book to make for an entertaining, laid-back read, that is enjoyable but does not tax the brain too much. Reading this at a time of great personal stress was refreshing and it served its purpose well, taking my mind off my troubles.
3.5★s
April 8, 2016
Charlie Anderson works hard and long hours as a vet. Having lost both her parents when she was just thirteen, Charlie has experienced first hand what it's like to feel alone at a youthful age and although now she is in her twenties she still misses them as each day passes.
When Charlie is sent to a little town in the New South Wales coast to find out about a possible outbreak of the deadly Hendra virus she is not sure if she's ready to face her past. Dealing with her past is one thing, but when she comes across angry locals who demand answers right away she finds herself in an uncomfortable situation. The quicker she can find the answers the quicker she can leave the town, but will she be able to avoid running into her family?
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book. Close to Home is a wonderful and very entertaining read which I have no hesitation in highly recommending.
When Charlie is sent to a little town in the New South Wales coast to find out about a possible outbreak of the deadly Hendra virus she is not sure if she's ready to face her past. Dealing with her past is one thing, but when she comes across angry locals who demand answers right away she finds herself in an uncomfortable situation. The quicker she can find the answers the quicker she can leave the town, but will she be able to avoid running into her family?
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book. Close to Home is a wonderful and very entertaining read which I have no hesitation in highly recommending.
May 31, 2015
It’s a story that you just enjoy reading, that flowed well and that kept this reader completely engrossed from start to finish with many confrontations within the story that are both nail bitingly well written and equally heart-poundingly shocking.
4 stars
*Review copy received for the publisher
4 stars
*Review copy received for the publisher
August 5, 2015
Charlie Anderson works for the Department of Primary Industries in NSW as a Vet, a job that she is passionate about and one which leaves no time for her to dwell on the fractured and dysfunctional family life she left behind a long time ago … until she receives a phone call from her boss requesting her to investigate a possible outbreak of the Hendra Virus.
Much to her dismay, it is this outbreak that precipitates her return to her home town of Naringup – a place she thought she’d never visit again. Even more dismaying is the fact that the property where she is required to run tests belongs to the cousin she left behind a long time ago.
Her motto, “Come here, get the job done and get out”, begins to taunt her as her investigation of the property soon brings her into closer contact with Emma and then Hazel. To make matters worse, the investigation is extended and it's not long before all the reasons why she left come flooding back in vivid technicolor and she finds herself putting aside her own pain and hurt to help them.
Not only does she have to dig deep and deal with all of this on a personal level, she also has to contend with the animosity emanating from the townsfolk as her investigations into the virus continue.
When the sassy and sexy local Park Ranger, Joel Drummond begins to avail himself more frequently and offer more than just his assistance, he stirs up all kinds of feelings within Charlie and she slowly begins to wonder if she will ever be able to fully recover and reconcile herself to the past so that she can move on to her future.
Having never read a Pamela Cook novel before, I was looking forward to reading another new to me Australian author and Close to Home definitely did not disappoint.
Her easy writing style and excellent sense of place drew me in while her well-developed characters and sensitively handled storylines merged into a heart-warming and heartfelt story about family, forgiveness, healing the past and hoping for the future.
In the rendering of Charlie's character, it became quite obvious that Pamela writes "people" and I found myself really liking and connecting with her on a very personable level. She’s strong-willed, passionate, sensitive and compassionate which the narrative reveals through her interactions and dialogue. She’s also very troubled, having never really analysed the emotions and feelings she left in Naringup all those years ago in her haste to flee and make something of her life.
While Pamela makes her characters confront the tough social issue of domestic abuse, her own love for horses shines through Charlie as she explores and addresses the very real and deadly Hendra Virus which, since it was first isolated in 1994 in Hendra, Brisbane, has claimed the lives of 81 horses and 4 humans.
Through the medium of fiction, Pamela has given us not only a fully rendered view of the practices and procedures which the government is trying to put in place to extend their own knowledge of this dreadful disease but also a very sensitive glimpse of domestic violence and the manner in which its effects can reverberate through the years.
With rural fiction being one of my favourites and, having read a lot of them, I do believe that Pamela Cook is right up there with the rest of our Australian rural fiction writers who consistently raise the stakes by bringing us real and relatable stories with issues and environmental concerns that are current in our society.
She truly does write "Australian fiction with a country heart" and I cannot wait to read more by her.
Much to her dismay, it is this outbreak that precipitates her return to her home town of Naringup – a place she thought she’d never visit again. Even more dismaying is the fact that the property where she is required to run tests belongs to the cousin she left behind a long time ago.
Her motto, “Come here, get the job done and get out”, begins to taunt her as her investigation of the property soon brings her into closer contact with Emma and then Hazel. To make matters worse, the investigation is extended and it's not long before all the reasons why she left come flooding back in vivid technicolor and she finds herself putting aside her own pain and hurt to help them.
Not only does she have to dig deep and deal with all of this on a personal level, she also has to contend with the animosity emanating from the townsfolk as her investigations into the virus continue.
When the sassy and sexy local Park Ranger, Joel Drummond begins to avail himself more frequently and offer more than just his assistance, he stirs up all kinds of feelings within Charlie and she slowly begins to wonder if she will ever be able to fully recover and reconcile herself to the past so that she can move on to her future.
Having never read a Pamela Cook novel before, I was looking forward to reading another new to me Australian author and Close to Home definitely did not disappoint.
Her easy writing style and excellent sense of place drew me in while her well-developed characters and sensitively handled storylines merged into a heart-warming and heartfelt story about family, forgiveness, healing the past and hoping for the future.
In the rendering of Charlie's character, it became quite obvious that Pamela writes "people" and I found myself really liking and connecting with her on a very personable level. She’s strong-willed, passionate, sensitive and compassionate which the narrative reveals through her interactions and dialogue. She’s also very troubled, having never really analysed the emotions and feelings she left in Naringup all those years ago in her haste to flee and make something of her life.
While Pamela makes her characters confront the tough social issue of domestic abuse, her own love for horses shines through Charlie as she explores and addresses the very real and deadly Hendra Virus which, since it was first isolated in 1994 in Hendra, Brisbane, has claimed the lives of 81 horses and 4 humans.
Through the medium of fiction, Pamela has given us not only a fully rendered view of the practices and procedures which the government is trying to put in place to extend their own knowledge of this dreadful disease but also a very sensitive glimpse of domestic violence and the manner in which its effects can reverberate through the years.
With rural fiction being one of my favourites and, having read a lot of them, I do believe that Pamela Cook is right up there with the rest of our Australian rural fiction writers who consistently raise the stakes by bringing us real and relatable stories with issues and environmental concerns that are current in our society.
She truly does write "Australian fiction with a country heart" and I cannot wait to read more by her.
November 10, 2015
I enjoyed learning about Hendra virus and community reactions to it, via this book. It's obvious the author has conducted her research and this certainly came through.
For me, I enjoyed the start and set-up the most. After halfway I found the book slightly slow. I think that for me, the Hendra storyline overshadowed development of the characters. Having got to the end, I'm not sure I feel I really know Charlie and Joel?
This might also be due to me looking for more romance in the book and more tension between Charlie and Joel, when really the greater storyline involved the Hendra outbreak and the unresolved relationships between Charlie/Emma, Charlie/Emma's mother and Emma/Garth (Emma's awful husband).
That said, my mother read Close To Home and she really enjoyed it - so for readers interested in the plotline more than the romantic element, this may be the perfect Australian rural read for you.
* Thank you to Goodreads and the publisher for the giveaway.
For me, I enjoyed the start and set-up the most. After halfway I found the book slightly slow. I think that for me, the Hendra storyline overshadowed development of the characters. Having got to the end, I'm not sure I feel I really know Charlie and Joel?
This might also be due to me looking for more romance in the book and more tension between Charlie and Joel, when really the greater storyline involved the Hendra outbreak and the unresolved relationships between Charlie/Emma, Charlie/Emma's mother and Emma/Garth (Emma's awful husband).
That said, my mother read Close To Home and she really enjoyed it - so for readers interested in the plotline more than the romantic element, this may be the perfect Australian rural read for you.
* Thank you to Goodreads and the publisher for the giveaway.
January 10, 2020
Close to Home is about family., forgiveness and moving on with your life. When an outbreak of Hendra virus reported in Naringup on the New South Wales Coast Charlie Anderson investigated vet with the Department of Primary Industry was sent to investigate. However, this assignment made Charlie face her past. The readers of Close to Home will continue to follow Charlie to find out what happens.
Close to Home is another fantastic book by Pamela Cook. Close to Home engaged me from the first page, and I was unable to put the book down. I love the portrayal of the characters by Pamela Cook and the way they interacted with each other throughout this book. Close to Home is well written and researched by Pamela Cook. I like the description of the settings that allow me to imagine living in Naringup.
The readers of Close to Home will learn about Hendra virus and how it can affect communities and the importance of continuing researching into the deadly virus. Also, the readers of Close to Home will learn about the role of a park ranger in small coastal towns.
I recommend this book.
Close to Home is another fantastic book by Pamela Cook. Close to Home engaged me from the first page, and I was unable to put the book down. I love the portrayal of the characters by Pamela Cook and the way they interacted with each other throughout this book. Close to Home is well written and researched by Pamela Cook. I like the description of the settings that allow me to imagine living in Naringup.
The readers of Close to Home will learn about Hendra virus and how it can affect communities and the importance of continuing researching into the deadly virus. Also, the readers of Close to Home will learn about the role of a park ranger in small coastal towns.
I recommend this book.
July 4, 2015
An enthralling read that keeps you turning the pages.This is a book that tackles a variety of issues. An animal virus outbreak, a broken family, a bullying and violent husband, an intelligent and good looking guy from National Parks and a number of other strong characters that keep you interested throughout. It is extremely well written and raises and deals with all of the issues in a proper and measured way. No gloss, it is what it is... And it draws you in and makes you think.
Charlie, the lead character, is a strong and independent young woman whose childhood was affected by the death of her parents and a period of living with her aunt and uncle who had their own problems. She has left this all behind her and is now a successful and career orientation woman who is confident in herself and how life should be. The return to the town where she lived with her aunt and uncle is emotionally challenging for her. Her job here requires her to rise above this and it is this and the characters that she deals with that make this read all the more worthwhile.
With wonderful descriptive scenes and narrative you feel as though you are there with Charlie in the small town of Naringup. This feeling is with you thoughout the book but it only builds as you head towards the final showdown in a scene that has your heart pounding.
Pamela Cook has certainly delivered here again with Close to Home. No, I think with this book she has raised the bar even higher. A must read!
Charlie, the lead character, is a strong and independent young woman whose childhood was affected by the death of her parents and a period of living with her aunt and uncle who had their own problems. She has left this all behind her and is now a successful and career orientation woman who is confident in herself and how life should be. The return to the town where she lived with her aunt and uncle is emotionally challenging for her. Her job here requires her to rise above this and it is this and the characters that she deals with that make this read all the more worthwhile.
With wonderful descriptive scenes and narrative you feel as though you are there with Charlie in the small town of Naringup. This feeling is with you thoughout the book but it only builds as you head towards the final showdown in a scene that has your heart pounding.
Pamela Cook has certainly delivered here again with Close to Home. No, I think with this book she has raised the bar even higher. A must read!
September 23, 2015
At 13 years old Charlie Anderson is sent to her Aunt's place in Naringup, country NSW, to live after the tragic death of her parents. Life is so different and circumstances of her aunts' family life do not make for happy years. Charlie puts all her energy into getting good schooling marks to allow her to move far away.
She puts the past behind her and has become successful as a vet working for the DPI. But a suspected outbreak of the deadly Hendra virus sees her back in the place she worked so hard to leave behind.
I loved this book, this was such an easy read that I was looking for time to sit and immerse myself in the country town of Naringup. That said there were some serious topics covered ie small town hysteria in the face of the misunderstanding of the Hendra virus and domestic violence. Charlie has to face her aunt and cousin Emma and confront the actions of years ago. Joel Drummond the local National Parks officer provides support and a bit of harmless flirting but Charlie's stomach does somersaults every time he's around.....can this grow into something more.
I also enjoyed the romantic element to this story. It was refreshing to have interaction with out the 'big misunderstanding' that is often seen this genre.
I have previously read Pamela Cooke's 'Blackwattle Lake' and enjoyed it, so I'll be looking for 'Essie's Way' in the future.
She puts the past behind her and has become successful as a vet working for the DPI. But a suspected outbreak of the deadly Hendra virus sees her back in the place she worked so hard to leave behind.
I loved this book, this was such an easy read that I was looking for time to sit and immerse myself in the country town of Naringup. That said there were some serious topics covered ie small town hysteria in the face of the misunderstanding of the Hendra virus and domestic violence. Charlie has to face her aunt and cousin Emma and confront the actions of years ago. Joel Drummond the local National Parks officer provides support and a bit of harmless flirting but Charlie's stomach does somersaults every time he's around.....can this grow into something more.
I also enjoyed the romantic element to this story. It was refreshing to have interaction with out the 'big misunderstanding' that is often seen this genre.
I have previously read Pamela Cooke's 'Blackwattle Lake' and enjoyed it, so I'll be looking for 'Essie's Way' in the future.
May 10, 2015
Close to home - Coming Home. When Charlie is assigned to a possible Hendra Virus case the last thing she is expecting is that it is in the Home town she fled from so many years before. She hopes to get in and out without being noticed too much. She is in for a shock when she finds out where the outbreak is. The terror and fear all comes back to haunt her as she deals with violence towards herself and others. She is certainly not expecting to find herself attracted to a red hot park ranger either. Can coming home heal the past for her and her estranged family?
Pamela has done a fantastic job with this novel, it flows well together and takes a serious look at serious issues such as Virus outbreaks and the danger they can cause along with domestic violence, however she lightens the story with a romantic pairing and the positive ending to the story, leaving readers looking for more. Thanks for the opportunity to read and review your novel.
Pamela has done a fantastic job with this novel, it flows well together and takes a serious look at serious issues such as Virus outbreaks and the danger they can cause along with domestic violence, however she lightens the story with a romantic pairing and the positive ending to the story, leaving readers looking for more. Thanks for the opportunity to read and review your novel.
August 1, 2015
Charlie Anderson didn't have it easy in the beginning and has worked hard to get past it. But she hasn't really dealt with it.
Now she has been thrown in it.
A suspected case of Hendra virus has been reported and DPI worker Charlie is the most qualified person to deal with it. Unfortunately it falls in her estranged family's backyard. Charlie must deal with the outbreak and a past she had hoped never to see again.
This was a quite quick read.
Another late night actually.
Free uncorrected proof thanks to The reading room and Hachette Australia.
Now she has been thrown in it.
A suspected case of Hendra virus has been reported and DPI worker Charlie is the most qualified person to deal with it. Unfortunately it falls in her estranged family's backyard. Charlie must deal with the outbreak and a past she had hoped never to see again.
This was a quite quick read.
Another late night actually.
Free uncorrected proof thanks to The reading room and Hachette Australia.
June 8, 2015
This book was such an easy read, had me hooked from the first chapter & I barely put it down till it was finished.
It was a great story with some great humor, romance & I even shed a tear.
Definitely recommend it.
Review copy received from the publisher.
It was a great story with some great humor, romance & I even shed a tear.
Definitely recommend it.
Review copy received from the publisher.
June 5, 2015
More than rural romance, this is a smart piece of fiction from Pamela Cook that engages the heart and the mind.
Full review at http://bookbirdy.com/2015/06/05/revie...
Full review at http://bookbirdy.com/2015/06/05/revie...
February 11, 2018
(I received a free copy of this book from Net Galley in exchange for an honest review.)
Orphaned at thirteen, Charlie Anderson has been on her own for half her life. Not that she minds - she has her work as a vet and most days that's enough. Most days. But when she's sent to a small town on the New South Wales coast to investigate a possible outbreak of the deadly Hendra virus, Charlie finds herself torn between the haunting memories of her past, her dedication to the job and her attraction to a handsome local.
Travelling to Naringup means coming face to face with what is left of her dysfunctional family - her cousin Emma, who begged Charlie not to leave all those years ago, and her aunt Hazel, who let her go without a backwards glance. But it also means relying on the kindness of strangers and, when she meets local park ranger Joel Drummond, opening her heart to the possibility of something more...
As tensions in the country town rise, can Charlie reconcile with the past and find herself a new future in the town she left so long ago?
Another variation on the Australian rural romance genre, this book actually took the concept up a notch and incorporated a few great storylines and characters that elevated it just beyond "girl meets boy in small country town, falls in love..."
The idea of Charlie, the protagonist, having a highly-qualified career was a great choice. Too often we see the man being the high-flyer and the woman in the story almost being invisible as far as a career is concerned. Here, Charlie is a veterinarian with the DPI. Not the type of job we normally see...
The other thing that I really did appreciate was the romance aspect - not too heavy, not too mushy, but enough for me to understand the relationship between Charlie and Joel. It doesn't always have to be hot and steamy sex scenes to tell the reader that boy loves girl...
Other things I liked: the locations and descriptions. I knew I was in rural NSW within the first few pages. I could feel the fresh air and smell the countryside all the way through this novel.
The only reason this didn't hit 5 stars was that I thought the characters were a little one dimensional, at times. Especially Emma and Hazel. I think we could have gone a bit deeper with those two and really had more story from them. But that is a bit of a minor complaint...
Paul
ARH
Orphaned at thirteen, Charlie Anderson has been on her own for half her life. Not that she minds - she has her work as a vet and most days that's enough. Most days. But when she's sent to a small town on the New South Wales coast to investigate a possible outbreak of the deadly Hendra virus, Charlie finds herself torn between the haunting memories of her past, her dedication to the job and her attraction to a handsome local.
Travelling to Naringup means coming face to face with what is left of her dysfunctional family - her cousin Emma, who begged Charlie not to leave all those years ago, and her aunt Hazel, who let her go without a backwards glance. But it also means relying on the kindness of strangers and, when she meets local park ranger Joel Drummond, opening her heart to the possibility of something more...
As tensions in the country town rise, can Charlie reconcile with the past and find herself a new future in the town she left so long ago?
Another variation on the Australian rural romance genre, this book actually took the concept up a notch and incorporated a few great storylines and characters that elevated it just beyond "girl meets boy in small country town, falls in love..."
The idea of Charlie, the protagonist, having a highly-qualified career was a great choice. Too often we see the man being the high-flyer and the woman in the story almost being invisible as far as a career is concerned. Here, Charlie is a veterinarian with the DPI. Not the type of job we normally see...
The other thing that I really did appreciate was the romance aspect - not too heavy, not too mushy, but enough for me to understand the relationship between Charlie and Joel. It doesn't always have to be hot and steamy sex scenes to tell the reader that boy loves girl...
Other things I liked: the locations and descriptions. I knew I was in rural NSW within the first few pages. I could feel the fresh air and smell the countryside all the way through this novel.
The only reason this didn't hit 5 stars was that I thought the characters were a little one dimensional, at times. Especially Emma and Hazel. I think we could have gone a bit deeper with those two and really had more story from them. But that is a bit of a minor complaint...
Paul
ARH
March 23, 2020
This book was a really enjoyable read which was about a vet who was instructed to go to a small town and investigate the possiblity of hendra virus being as issue with some horses. The thing is the vet has a past related to the town and some of the people there making her not want to return.
She arrives at the town where she is thrown to the midst of hostilities old and new as she has to quarantine some of the properties because of the virus. Whilst this all happening she also needs to work with the local police and a Parks officer. Bonding with these people changes the course of her life in a new direction and also mends some past bridges.
An excellent book that is well worth the read.
She arrives at the town where she is thrown to the midst of hostilities old and new as she has to quarantine some of the properties because of the virus. Whilst this all happening she also needs to work with the local police and a Parks officer. Bonding with these people changes the course of her life in a new direction and also mends some past bridges.
An excellent book that is well worth the read.
December 28, 2017
This was ok. There was nothing specifically wrong with it but I thought the most exciting aspect was the hendra virus itself and not so much the relationships that seemed to be the point of everything.
For the most part I just wasn’t all that riveted by anything and I didn’t really feel it was worth what I spent on it.
For the most part I just wasn’t all that riveted by anything and I didn’t really feel it was worth what I spent on it.
February 19, 2020
A really good book with a few emotional twists. You think it's only going to be about the virus but as you go deeper into the story it all changes. It's been hard to put this book down to be honest. Definitely recommend to anyone.
September 12, 2024
I love reading Author Pamela Cook’s books.
This story was an entertaining one with themes of domestic violence, learnt about the Hendra virus in horses , fear among community when diseases break out, family bonding , letting go of the past and a happy ending.
This story was an entertaining one with themes of domestic violence, learnt about the Hendra virus in horses , fear among community when diseases break out, family bonding , letting go of the past and a happy ending.
September 13, 2025
Great read, and good balance of elements - work/science, family, and romance. A couple of regressive (in my opinion) statements in the book about women, but it made up for it overall. Really enjoyed this, and actually polished it off in 24 hours, which is rare for a busy uni student.
November 5, 2019
Fantastic book.
December 11, 2019
Loved this book, fabulous read
October 22, 2021
Brilliant book and beware does get into domestic violence Issues. I couldn't put the book down
July 14, 2022
I purchased Close to home after reading The Cross Roads. Again, a lovely well written, easy to read book.
March 9, 2024
Charlie Anderson's job takes her back to a place, she thought she had left behind and would never reurn. But she must confront the demons of the past... Will she ever be truly happy??
January 21, 2025
Listened as audio while cleaning. Romance.
August 16, 2015
Close to Home is a book that fulfils my need for rural Australian stories that are fun to read, with a dash of romance. It stands out from the pack though for integrating a dose of science into the story (please, don’t turn away now – it’s well done and never boring) with the heroine being a vet and the plot being treatment of a suspected Hendra virus outbreak. (Hendra affects horses, but can also make the jump to humans. There have been several outbreaks in Australia – this story deals with a fictional one). It’s a ripping read, ticking all my boxes for a great story. This is my first Pamela Cook novel, but I’ll certainly be on the lookout for more.
Close to Home centres around Charlie, a vet for the Department of Primary Industries. She’s had some experience with Hendra virus and has even done some research on it. Naturally, when an outbreak is suspected on the south coast of New South Wales, she’s the obvious choice to handle it. Unfortunately for Charlie, she knows Naringup very well – she grew up there after being orphaned as a child. She swore she’d never return, but here she is. Charlie’s memories of a dull town don’t quite match up to the new reality – Naringup is thriving. However, she’s got a job to do and it turns out that the suspected case is on the farm of her cousin and her husband. The atmosphere is glacial, as Charlie hasn’t spoken to Emma since she left town and Emma’s husband Garth is not pleased at being told to do. His actions bring Charlie’s aunt into the scandal and suddenly Charlie is forced to confront the past she has locked away. Lucky for her there is friendship with the local policewoman Jac and maybe a bit more with Joel, Jac’s brother in law and local park ranger.
I found the process of quarantine and testing for Hendra virus very interesting. This is something I’ve heard of, but really didn’t know too much about. The local community’s reaction to the outbreak was also interesting, as feelings ranged from fear to anger. Charlie and Jac certainly had their work cut out for them, as did Joel when the public learned that bats may transmit the virus to horses. But it’s not all work for Charlie, her growing relationship with Joe is also a delight to read in its gentleness and ultimately happiness. The subplot of domestic violence in its different shapes and forms leant a darker side to the narrative. I felt that Pamela Cook handled it well, being sympathetic to both Emma and Hazel, but capturing Charlie’s reluctance to understand why each woman remained with their partner. In summary, Close to Home was very well crafted. There was a nice balance of lighter and more serious moments, plus a scene I really didn’t see coming! Fortunately the shock led to some gentler scenes and a happy ever after for those involved.
I found Close to Home a light read, which I certainly don’t mean in a denigrating way – it was just perfect for relaxing with after work each night. The story was entertaining, the dialogue realistic and it was just what I needed. Plus, I learned some things about Hendra virus, so I feel like it was a bit of research reading too. It would be a lovely weekend read too (providing you don’t have other plans)!
Thank you to Hachette and The Reading Room for the ARC. My review is honest.
http://samstillreading.wordpress.com
Close to Home centres around Charlie, a vet for the Department of Primary Industries. She’s had some experience with Hendra virus and has even done some research on it. Naturally, when an outbreak is suspected on the south coast of New South Wales, she’s the obvious choice to handle it. Unfortunately for Charlie, she knows Naringup very well – she grew up there after being orphaned as a child. She swore she’d never return, but here she is. Charlie’s memories of a dull town don’t quite match up to the new reality – Naringup is thriving. However, she’s got a job to do and it turns out that the suspected case is on the farm of her cousin and her husband. The atmosphere is glacial, as Charlie hasn’t spoken to Emma since she left town and Emma’s husband Garth is not pleased at being told to do. His actions bring Charlie’s aunt into the scandal and suddenly Charlie is forced to confront the past she has locked away. Lucky for her there is friendship with the local policewoman Jac and maybe a bit more with Joel, Jac’s brother in law and local park ranger.
I found the process of quarantine and testing for Hendra virus very interesting. This is something I’ve heard of, but really didn’t know too much about. The local community’s reaction to the outbreak was also interesting, as feelings ranged from fear to anger. Charlie and Jac certainly had their work cut out for them, as did Joel when the public learned that bats may transmit the virus to horses. But it’s not all work for Charlie, her growing relationship with Joe is also a delight to read in its gentleness and ultimately happiness. The subplot of domestic violence in its different shapes and forms leant a darker side to the narrative. I felt that Pamela Cook handled it well, being sympathetic to both Emma and Hazel, but capturing Charlie’s reluctance to understand why each woman remained with their partner. In summary, Close to Home was very well crafted. There was a nice balance of lighter and more serious moments, plus a scene I really didn’t see coming! Fortunately the shock led to some gentler scenes and a happy ever after for those involved.
I found Close to Home a light read, which I certainly don’t mean in a denigrating way – it was just perfect for relaxing with after work each night. The story was entertaining, the dialogue realistic and it was just what I needed. Plus, I learned some things about Hendra virus, so I feel like it was a bit of research reading too. It would be a lovely weekend read too (providing you don’t have other plans)!
Thank you to Hachette and The Reading Room for the ARC. My review is honest.
http://samstillreading.wordpress.com
March 16, 2016
4.5 stars
The tragic hendra virus is the main topic featured in Australian author Pamela Cook’s third novel, Close to Home. Charlie Anderson is Cook’s lead character, a hardworking vet determined to do as much as she can to contain a hendra outbreak in the country town of Naringup. Charlie has worked hard to escape the clutches of the town she spent most of her childhood. Sent to live with her aunt Hazel at 13 after the death of her parents, Charlie grew up in an unhappy home. Academic success enabled Charlie to move on from Naringup and fulfil her dreams of becoming a vet. When a case of suspected hendra hits the place she would much rather forget, Charlie must confront her fears and help save a town from further distress. There to help Charlie along the way is park ranger Joel. Charlie must decide if she is ready to leave the past behind and welcome new love in her life in a town that has brought her pain in the past.
After reading Close to Home I was reminded just how much I love Pamela Cook’s writing. Her setting descriptions in particular are always a joy to read, for the entirety of the novel I felt like I was by Charlie’s side, as a bystander in the Naringup community. Cook’s novel again showcases her ability to describe rural environments with precise detail, which I thoroughly enjoyed. Although there is gentleness about this novel in places, Cook is not afraid to tackle some serious issues in her novel. In Close to Home’s case, Cook explores domestic violence, intimidation, a family tragedy and the main topic, the deadly hendra virus. Cook deals with each of these topics with a good balance of obvious research and sentiment. The result is a well paced, completely engaging novel from start to finish. Cook rounds her latest story of with some fabulous and strong characters. I really loved main character Charlie’s journey of growth. Added to the story is an ever so subtle light romance, which complimented rather than detracted from the business of the main storyline about hendra virus.
Pamela Cook hits the spot again with Close to Home. It is rural fiction with a difference, Cook’s exploration of the hendra virus both informs and entertains her readers. I’m looking forward to finding out what Pamela Cook has in the works for her fans next.
The tragic hendra virus is the main topic featured in Australian author Pamela Cook’s third novel, Close to Home. Charlie Anderson is Cook’s lead character, a hardworking vet determined to do as much as she can to contain a hendra outbreak in the country town of Naringup. Charlie has worked hard to escape the clutches of the town she spent most of her childhood. Sent to live with her aunt Hazel at 13 after the death of her parents, Charlie grew up in an unhappy home. Academic success enabled Charlie to move on from Naringup and fulfil her dreams of becoming a vet. When a case of suspected hendra hits the place she would much rather forget, Charlie must confront her fears and help save a town from further distress. There to help Charlie along the way is park ranger Joel. Charlie must decide if she is ready to leave the past behind and welcome new love in her life in a town that has brought her pain in the past.
After reading Close to Home I was reminded just how much I love Pamela Cook’s writing. Her setting descriptions in particular are always a joy to read, for the entirety of the novel I felt like I was by Charlie’s side, as a bystander in the Naringup community. Cook’s novel again showcases her ability to describe rural environments with precise detail, which I thoroughly enjoyed. Although there is gentleness about this novel in places, Cook is not afraid to tackle some serious issues in her novel. In Close to Home’s case, Cook explores domestic violence, intimidation, a family tragedy and the main topic, the deadly hendra virus. Cook deals with each of these topics with a good balance of obvious research and sentiment. The result is a well paced, completely engaging novel from start to finish. Cook rounds her latest story of with some fabulous and strong characters. I really loved main character Charlie’s journey of growth. Added to the story is an ever so subtle light romance, which complimented rather than detracted from the business of the main storyline about hendra virus.
Pamela Cook hits the spot again with Close to Home. It is rural fiction with a difference, Cook’s exploration of the hendra virus both informs and entertains her readers. I’m looking forward to finding out what Pamela Cook has in the works for her fans next.
March 29, 2016
I received the book for free through Goodreads First Reads.
Close to Home was a gentle rural romance set in a fictional town on the New South Wales South coast. I am using romance in the loose sense that there was a love interest, and we get a happy ending. Nothing overly mushy or detailed.
It mostly centred around a suspected Hendra virus outbreak, and the main character’s job to identify and contain it. Despite the turmoil and drama that does occur I still found it to be a sweet, easy read. Very cruisy; perfect for a switch-off afternoon when you just want to lay back.
I loved the imagery of this book. The author crafted such detailed surrounds and bushlands for the setting, and it really added a lush detailed backdrop for the story that felt entirely authentic. I could have easily read fifty more pages of the setting from Pamela Cook’s viewpoint. Beautiful.
The characters were consistent in their actions, and dialogue wasn’t used just to speed things along. Everything in this book mattered.
I also thought the internal musings of Charlie were used particularly well, gentle coaxing and reminders that helped the overall story about the continuing hurt following the loss of her parents and her strength to overcome it.
The entire book was well paced, and everything built to the final conflict, which resolved in its entirety.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this novel.
Close to Home was a gentle rural romance set in a fictional town on the New South Wales South coast. I am using romance in the loose sense that there was a love interest, and we get a happy ending. Nothing overly mushy or detailed.
It mostly centred around a suspected Hendra virus outbreak, and the main character’s job to identify and contain it. Despite the turmoil and drama that does occur I still found it to be a sweet, easy read. Very cruisy; perfect for a switch-off afternoon when you just want to lay back.
I loved the imagery of this book. The author crafted such detailed surrounds and bushlands for the setting, and it really added a lush detailed backdrop for the story that felt entirely authentic. I could have easily read fifty more pages of the setting from Pamela Cook’s viewpoint. Beautiful.
The characters were consistent in their actions, and dialogue wasn’t used just to speed things along. Everything in this book mattered.
I also thought the internal musings of Charlie were used particularly well, gentle coaxing and reminders that helped the overall story about the continuing hurt following the loss of her parents and her strength to overcome it.
The entire book was well paced, and everything built to the final conflict, which resolved in its entirety.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this novel.
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