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Wish You Were Here
Not yet published
Expected 1 Dec 26Warm, witty and wise, an extraordinary debut where a young widow grapples with her husband's secrets, perfect for readers of Frances Whiting and Monica McInerney.
Sally Jenkins can't seem to catch a break...
Widowed with two children, Sally clings to the only thing still connecting her to her late husband: a bankrupt caravan park with a penchant for blocked toilets.
It wouldn't be so bad if there wasn't a new resort opening up nearby, luring away the last of the holiday-makers. And if one more person suggests that she reopen the park's mountain-bike tracks, she will impale them with a plunger. It was riding those dangerous tracks that caused her husband's accident, leaving her in this mess. A mess that includes desperately trying to find the money to send her son to a school that offers everything he needs.
Sally needs to find a way to haul the park back into the black and hold on to her sanity. Then, to make matters worse, her husband's childhood friend Jagger arrives back in town, and the fact he is charming and loved by everyone only annoys Sally further. But Jagger holds a secret of his own that - if revealed - could break this already battered family for good.
Yet Sally can't hide forever, and whether she wants it to be or not, the past isn't finished with her yet...
Sally Jenkins can't seem to catch a break...
Widowed with two children, Sally clings to the only thing still connecting her to her late husband: a bankrupt caravan park with a penchant for blocked toilets.
It wouldn't be so bad if there wasn't a new resort opening up nearby, luring away the last of the holiday-makers. And if one more person suggests that she reopen the park's mountain-bike tracks, she will impale them with a plunger. It was riding those dangerous tracks that caused her husband's accident, leaving her in this mess. A mess that includes desperately trying to find the money to send her son to a school that offers everything he needs.
Sally needs to find a way to haul the park back into the black and hold on to her sanity. Then, to make matters worse, her husband's childhood friend Jagger arrives back in town, and the fact he is charming and loved by everyone only annoys Sally further. But Jagger holds a secret of his own that - if revealed - could break this already battered family for good.
Yet Sally can't hide forever, and whether she wants it to be or not, the past isn't finished with her yet...
304 pages, Kindle Edition
Expected publication December 1, 2026
About the author
Bernadette Eden
6 books23 followersAward winning author Bernadette Eden writes feel-good fiction that gives you a giggle.
Growing up in a small country town, Bernadette learnt the art of storytelling by sitting at kitchen tables listening to gossip.
When she was old enough she dabbled in some gossip herself and then thought what if I made this a bit juicier and called it fiction?
Now, living in the Adelaide Hills with her husband, three kids and a dog who thinks he is human, Bernadette still gossips but likes to call it research instead.
Growing up in a small country town, Bernadette learnt the art of storytelling by sitting at kitchen tables listening to gossip.
When she was old enough she dabbled in some gossip herself and then thought what if I made this a bit juicier and called it fiction?
Now, living in the Adelaide Hills with her husband, three kids and a dog who thinks he is human, Bernadette still gossips but likes to call it research instead.
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Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
This is a fabulous debut, a beautifully written story about life and secrets, love and family and what can happen when you lose your husband and years later secrets are unveiled.
Sally Jenkins is widowed with two young children, Ned and Clem she is still living and running the caravan park that they bought not long after they married in Mark’s small home of Mount Mirabella, Mark had downhill bike tracks built and they became very popular and the town grew as well but when Mark died on one of the tracks Sally closed them down and this has caused a decline in the people arriving at the caravan park and the town, it appears that the town is slowly dying and Sally is struggling to make ends meet.
Things get worse when a resort is opening fairly close by and her talented eleven year son Ned is offered a position at an elite private school and Sally needs to find money to get him there, her daughter Clem is always on the go and never stops and Sally is struggling and wondering where it will all end.
Then Mark’s best friend Jagger arrives back in town and he is pushing her buttons but does she really understand why he does that and then there are secrets old family secrets that are coming out, will these secrets break things more or will they ensure a happy future for all?
I loved this one Sally has been through so much and is finding it hard to keep her head above water and her children need so much and the author has taken on issues that play a big part in today’s world depression, suicide and how the people who are left behind cope with life after and done a fabulous job with it, there are so many fabulous characters in this story, all who add to the story, this is one that I would highly recommend, it is moving and emotional, witty at times it made me smile and cry, congratulations MS Eden on a wonderful debut, I look forward to more stories.
My thanks to the publisher HQ Fiction for my ARC to read and review.
Sally Jenkins is widowed with two young children, Ned and Clem she is still living and running the caravan park that they bought not long after they married in Mark’s small home of Mount Mirabella, Mark had downhill bike tracks built and they became very popular and the town grew as well but when Mark died on one of the tracks Sally closed them down and this has caused a decline in the people arriving at the caravan park and the town, it appears that the town is slowly dying and Sally is struggling to make ends meet.
Things get worse when a resort is opening fairly close by and her talented eleven year son Ned is offered a position at an elite private school and Sally needs to find money to get him there, her daughter Clem is always on the go and never stops and Sally is struggling and wondering where it will all end.
Then Mark’s best friend Jagger arrives back in town and he is pushing her buttons but does she really understand why he does that and then there are secrets old family secrets that are coming out, will these secrets break things more or will they ensure a happy future for all?
I loved this one Sally has been through so much and is finding it hard to keep her head above water and her children need so much and the author has taken on issues that play a big part in today’s world depression, suicide and how the people who are left behind cope with life after and done a fabulous job with it, there are so many fabulous characters in this story, all who add to the story, this is one that I would highly recommend, it is moving and emotional, witty at times it made me smile and cry, congratulations MS Eden on a wonderful debut, I look forward to more stories.
My thanks to the publisher HQ Fiction for my ARC to read and review.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
“There was no band-aid big enough to cover the shame I felt. That’s what nobody understood about grief and shame and guilt: keeping it at bay is exhausting, a constant battle to not wallow in the molasses of sadness.”
Wish You Were Here is the fifth novel by award-winning Australian author, Bernadette Eden. Thirty-three-year-old Sally Jenkins is four years widowed, mother of two, and living in a bankrupt caravan park in the mid-north of South Australia. She keeps doing her best with Mount Mirabella Caravan Park: she’s got to find a way to afford the school her smart, perceptive, curious eleven-year-old son needs.
But since she closed the highly popular downhill bike tracks that her husband, Mark constructed, the track that killed him, there’s not much to draw people to the town, and the town blames her for the downturn. And with a fancy new resort soon to open up nearby, which Sally sees as direct competition, things aren’t likely to improve.
Had he wanted it, Mark could have been heir to Mirabella Station, but he eschewed being beholden to his family, a family who have since done nothing to help Sally out. And the return to Mount Mirabella of Mark’s charming, attractive best friend, Jagger is just another irritant. Why is he even here? What is he up to?
As well as a setting easily pictured, Eden gives her reader a wonderful cast of characters, many of whom endear, none of whom are cardboard cutouts, quite a few of whom have wise words and insightful observations. There twists and surprises, lies and secrets, in a plot that includes matters topical, age-old, and relevant.
Depression and suicide feature strongly: Eden’s depiction of living with a depressed person has an authenticity that comes from personal experience, and the benefit of hindsight. She highlights the stigma of mental illness that stops open discussion, keeps it under the radar, and can prevent family and friends from recognising it, later becoming a source of continuing guilt.
Also touched upon: the lower expectations children can feel because of a family’s financial hardships; succession planning and patriarchal control from beyond the grave; and compulsive spending. A bit of romance and plenty of humour, some of it quite black, keeps this thought-provoking, heart-warming and uplifting novel upbeat. Highly recommended!
This unbiased review is from an uncorrected proof copy provided by NetGalley and HQ Fiction HQ Insiders
Wish You Were Here is the fifth novel by award-winning Australian author, Bernadette Eden. Thirty-three-year-old Sally Jenkins is four years widowed, mother of two, and living in a bankrupt caravan park in the mid-north of South Australia. She keeps doing her best with Mount Mirabella Caravan Park: she’s got to find a way to afford the school her smart, perceptive, curious eleven-year-old son needs.
But since she closed the highly popular downhill bike tracks that her husband, Mark constructed, the track that killed him, there’s not much to draw people to the town, and the town blames her for the downturn. And with a fancy new resort soon to open up nearby, which Sally sees as direct competition, things aren’t likely to improve.
Had he wanted it, Mark could have been heir to Mirabella Station, but he eschewed being beholden to his family, a family who have since done nothing to help Sally out. And the return to Mount Mirabella of Mark’s charming, attractive best friend, Jagger is just another irritant. Why is he even here? What is he up to?
As well as a setting easily pictured, Eden gives her reader a wonderful cast of characters, many of whom endear, none of whom are cardboard cutouts, quite a few of whom have wise words and insightful observations. There twists and surprises, lies and secrets, in a plot that includes matters topical, age-old, and relevant.
Depression and suicide feature strongly: Eden’s depiction of living with a depressed person has an authenticity that comes from personal experience, and the benefit of hindsight. She highlights the stigma of mental illness that stops open discussion, keeps it under the radar, and can prevent family and friends from recognising it, later becoming a source of continuing guilt.
Also touched upon: the lower expectations children can feel because of a family’s financial hardships; succession planning and patriarchal control from beyond the grave; and compulsive spending. A bit of romance and plenty of humour, some of it quite black, keeps this thought-provoking, heart-warming and uplifting novel upbeat. Highly recommended!
This unbiased review is from an uncorrected proof copy provided by NetGalley and HQ Fiction HQ Insiders
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Wish You Were Here by Bernadette Eden is an impressive debut that tackles a difficult topic of unexpected death and associated guilt. Yet balanced with plenty of wit and wisdom to keep a reader calm and connected—especially since the struggles our two main characters grapple with are definitely realistic and relatable. There are major secrets that, once known, throw some massive twists into the plot as yes, these are surprises you may not see coming. So it is not a predictable storyline by any means. There is a fresh take on romance, too, with a bit of hidden yearning and unrealised forbidden love. Plus another unexpected relationship. It also showcases the trials of a country business, a crumbling caravan park and the fear of losing it, along with the memories and dreams connected to it after one woman’s husband dies in a questionable accident leaving her to care for two children.
Sally is juggling a number of life events and struggling with financial woes since her husband’s death. Her husband’s best friend, Jagger, tried to help and initially she found comfort in his care of her and her children. But then his job took him away and a lot happened in between. Until years later he arrives back in town and turns Sally’s world upside down with his revelations. Old emotions surface and blame and guilt magnify. But also unexpected feelings of attraction awaken. And secrets rise to the surface that now must be dealt with.
As Sally takes a long hard look at her life and location, and what Mount Mirabella has meant to her: ‘safety and knowing people’, ‘comfort and community’, she wonders if she ‘sold that community down the river’ when she closed the bike tracks after her loss. Though the familiarity of that mountain provided safety and strength after her husband Mark’s death “somewhere in there, perhaps the mountain had trapped me in its safety. Held me tight and given me an excuse not to be brave.’ We see the opposite in her son who is going away to school and feels he needs to board instead of living with his mother. It will be scary leaving the comfort of the familiar but he knows it is something he must do— to spread his wings and be brave.
This is a story about grief—the blame, the pain, damaged identity, feeling lost but it is also about forgiveness, love, healing, hope, independence, perspective and second chances. Yet one theme looms large above all that, that strangely was in a book I just read before this one. And that is the need for change. Just as Sally says, ‘I had to accept that nothing would change if I didn’t change.’ Basically to get a different outcome, we must change our actions, because repeating the same behaviour will only lead to the same results. Sally cannot hide from the world and those who care about her, indefinitely. She must deal with what happened in her husband, in order for her to move on—to move forward out the shadows of the past into the light of a positive future. Where love and freedom are waiting for her. 4.5 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 💫
Thanks to HQ Fiction and HQ Insiders for a review copy.
Sally is juggling a number of life events and struggling with financial woes since her husband’s death. Her husband’s best friend, Jagger, tried to help and initially she found comfort in his care of her and her children. But then his job took him away and a lot happened in between. Until years later he arrives back in town and turns Sally’s world upside down with his revelations. Old emotions surface and blame and guilt magnify. But also unexpected feelings of attraction awaken. And secrets rise to the surface that now must be dealt with.
As Sally takes a long hard look at her life and location, and what Mount Mirabella has meant to her: ‘safety and knowing people’, ‘comfort and community’, she wonders if she ‘sold that community down the river’ when she closed the bike tracks after her loss. Though the familiarity of that mountain provided safety and strength after her husband Mark’s death “somewhere in there, perhaps the mountain had trapped me in its safety. Held me tight and given me an excuse not to be brave.’ We see the opposite in her son who is going away to school and feels he needs to board instead of living with his mother. It will be scary leaving the comfort of the familiar but he knows it is something he must do— to spread his wings and be brave.
This is a story about grief—the blame, the pain, damaged identity, feeling lost but it is also about forgiveness, love, healing, hope, independence, perspective and second chances. Yet one theme looms large above all that, that strangely was in a book I just read before this one. And that is the need for change. Just as Sally says, ‘I had to accept that nothing would change if I didn’t change.’ Basically to get a different outcome, we must change our actions, because repeating the same behaviour will only lead to the same results. Sally cannot hide from the world and those who care about her, indefinitely. She must deal with what happened in her husband, in order for her to move on—to move forward out the shadows of the past into the light of a positive future. Where love and freedom are waiting for her. 4.5 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 💫
Thanks to HQ Fiction and HQ Insiders for a review copy.
September 13, 2026
Wish You Were Here is not only a story of the struggles of single parenthood and hardship of life in the country but also of loss, mental health and not being afraid to ask for help.
The story has an underlying sadness however Bernadette Eden has added plenty of humour and the knowledge that the family will come out the other end okay help to overcome the sombre theme.
Hidden secrets are revealed, confessions voiced and hope triumphs in this poignant and witty story of a family at breaking point.
Recommended for readers of The Other Side of Beautiful.
Read my full review at: https://theburgeoningbookshelf.blogsp...
The story has an underlying sadness however Bernadette Eden has added plenty of humour and the knowledge that the family will come out the other end okay help to overcome the sombre theme.
Hidden secrets are revealed, confessions voiced and hope triumphs in this poignant and witty story of a family at breaking point.
Recommended for readers of The Other Side of Beautiful.
Read my full review at: https://theburgeoningbookshelf.blogsp...
August 30, 2026
This Women's Fiction novel took me a little to get into but once I had my head around the characters it was such a nice book to read.
Sally is still grieving over the loss of her husband 4 years ago and is struggling to keep their caravan park business above water with bills to pay and the bank threatening to foreclose.
Added to that is her two children, Ned who is a gifted child but struggles in mainstream school, is given the opportunity to attend a school that better suits his needs but the fees are way above her reach. Also Clem is a spirited child who needs the space to run off her energy. Their grandmother Marian seems to have little interest in her grandchildren despite living a very comfortable life.
And of course there is Jagger who was Mark's best friend and is always nearby to help out and is so good looking.
All of this adds up to a good story, there is the love interest, secrets and revelations which I didn't see coming. If you like family stories with a touch of romance then this is the book for you.
Thankyou to HQ Insiders for a copy of this book for review purposes.
Sally is still grieving over the loss of her husband 4 years ago and is struggling to keep their caravan park business above water with bills to pay and the bank threatening to foreclose.
Added to that is her two children, Ned who is a gifted child but struggles in mainstream school, is given the opportunity to attend a school that better suits his needs but the fees are way above her reach. Also Clem is a spirited child who needs the space to run off her energy. Their grandmother Marian seems to have little interest in her grandchildren despite living a very comfortable life.
And of course there is Jagger who was Mark's best friend and is always nearby to help out and is so good looking.
All of this adds up to a good story, there is the love interest, secrets and revelations which I didn't see coming. If you like family stories with a touch of romance then this is the book for you.
Thankyou to HQ Insiders for a copy of this book for review purposes.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
I adored Wish You Were Here by Bernadette Eden! It’s warm, witty and heartbreaking, and Eden’s writing is like a warm hug and a bracing cup of tea all at once.
Sally is barely holding her life together, with her business and love life rapidly going down the gurgler as she struggles to be the mother her kids deserve. Everything spirals when her late husband’s best friend returns and long-held secrets tumble free.
The gut-wrenching portrayal of a grieving woman trying to claw her life back is not only heartbreaking and relatable, but told with so much humour and wit that I found myself laughing out loud while desperately wanting to dive headfirst into the story to give Sally a hug or a helping hand.
An emotional, funny and quintessential Australian story that walks the tightrope between grief and humour, while bravely exploring mental health, family ties and how the most unexpected surprises can set us free. A sparkling debut!
Thanks to the publisher for sending me an early ARC to read.
Sally is barely holding her life together, with her business and love life rapidly going down the gurgler as she struggles to be the mother her kids deserve. Everything spirals when her late husband’s best friend returns and long-held secrets tumble free.
The gut-wrenching portrayal of a grieving woman trying to claw her life back is not only heartbreaking and relatable, but told with so much humour and wit that I found myself laughing out loud while desperately wanting to dive headfirst into the story to give Sally a hug or a helping hand.
An emotional, funny and quintessential Australian story that walks the tightrope between grief and humour, while bravely exploring mental health, family ties and how the most unexpected surprises can set us free. A sparkling debut!
Thanks to the publisher for sending me an early ARC to read.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Four years on from the death of her husband Mark, Sally Jenkins is barely holding it together. The caravan park she owns, is run down, struggling to break even and the bank is hovering. The new luxury resort threatens to steal what clients she has left. She could fix it all, some in the town reckon, if she would just reopen the mountain bike track where her husband died.
Mark’s family is not making life any easier as the ongoing tension that she was the driving force behind her husband turning his back on running the family business runs deep. They could help, but they won’t and Sally could ask for help, but she won’t.
Sally’s children Ned and Clem are both struggling, and they are not sure how to navigate Sally’s emotional rollercoaster. One minute they have nice Mum and the next a Mum who is triggered by grief and anger. If all that was not enough Mark’s best friend Jagger is back. Sally is not sure if she wants to run him out of town or wrap her arms around him permanently.
As Sally tries to come terms with all that is happening around her, she learns that secrets have been kept and the impact is immense. You are easily pulled into Sally’s story, and those who surround her. Each of the characters are uniquely crafted, none are perfect and that is what makes the story so relatable. There are some big issues canvassed, depression, grief, trauma and betrayal but Eden has the skill to not overwhelm you. All the characters have a pathway but you are never sure which way they will go.
Eden has crafted a story that mixes humour and tragedy with finesse. Sally as the main character is wonderfully flawed, believing that she is the only answer to every question and it takes a toll. Sally’s inability to reach out and accept help is at times infuriating but ever so understandable. She is a woman dealing with grief, endeavouring to keep one foot forward every day and remain positive. It does not always go that way, and Sally slowly begins to learn to trust and accept help.
This is a great read, 'Wish you Were Here' is a wonderful, funny, entertaining story that deals tenderly with complex issues such as grief and family dynamics.
Thanks to HQ Insiders Australia for the uncorrected proof.
Mark’s family is not making life any easier as the ongoing tension that she was the driving force behind her husband turning his back on running the family business runs deep. They could help, but they won’t and Sally could ask for help, but she won’t.
Sally’s children Ned and Clem are both struggling, and they are not sure how to navigate Sally’s emotional rollercoaster. One minute they have nice Mum and the next a Mum who is triggered by grief and anger. If all that was not enough Mark’s best friend Jagger is back. Sally is not sure if she wants to run him out of town or wrap her arms around him permanently.
As Sally tries to come terms with all that is happening around her, she learns that secrets have been kept and the impact is immense. You are easily pulled into Sally’s story, and those who surround her. Each of the characters are uniquely crafted, none are perfect and that is what makes the story so relatable. There are some big issues canvassed, depression, grief, trauma and betrayal but Eden has the skill to not overwhelm you. All the characters have a pathway but you are never sure which way they will go.
Eden has crafted a story that mixes humour and tragedy with finesse. Sally as the main character is wonderfully flawed, believing that she is the only answer to every question and it takes a toll. Sally’s inability to reach out and accept help is at times infuriating but ever so understandable. She is a woman dealing with grief, endeavouring to keep one foot forward every day and remain positive. It does not always go that way, and Sally slowly begins to learn to trust and accept help.
This is a great read, 'Wish you Were Here' is a wonderful, funny, entertaining story that deals tenderly with complex issues such as grief and family dynamics.
Thanks to HQ Insiders Australia for the uncorrected proof.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Sally, a young widow with two children - who are delightful but also challenging - is running a caravan park teetering on the brink of failure. Her charismatic husband Mark, an enthusiastic and award winning cycler, brought in more clientele with the addition of some international standard bike trails. Without him, and with the bike trails closed, the caravan park and indeed the town struggles to survive.
But more importantly, Sally and the children also struggle. It's been four years and their grief is ongoing. Mark's family seem emotionally frozen, so there's no help there, and also no financial help. Mark's best friend Jagger is around, ish, and a marvellous godfather to the children, but seems to breeze in and out casually.
Sally's financial woes hit critical level just as her gifted son Ben is offered a treasured place at a private school. A rival holiday resort opening up nearby adds stress to Sally's already frazzled senses, an appeal to Mark's mother for financial help falls on deaf ears, and the bank is on the prowl.
It's then that a devastating secret, bombshell #1, is revealed. One that comes out of the blue for Sally, and the impact of the revelation is exactly like a bomb falling into her life. Everything seems to disintegrate around her. And then bombshell #2 hits.
By bombshell #1 I was fully invested in this struggling, grieving little family and wondered how on earth this could possibly resolve, whether there was ever going to be any chance of happiness.
This is a beautiful book, sad at times, with a huge nod to men's mental health and depression. Do read the author's letter. It made me want to give her a big hug. A compelling read to the end.
Thankyou to HQ Insiders for the chance to read this book. It's deeply moving, a heartfelt read.
But more importantly, Sally and the children also struggle. It's been four years and their grief is ongoing. Mark's family seem emotionally frozen, so there's no help there, and also no financial help. Mark's best friend Jagger is around, ish, and a marvellous godfather to the children, but seems to breeze in and out casually.
Sally's financial woes hit critical level just as her gifted son Ben is offered a treasured place at a private school. A rival holiday resort opening up nearby adds stress to Sally's already frazzled senses, an appeal to Mark's mother for financial help falls on deaf ears, and the bank is on the prowl.
It's then that a devastating secret, bombshell #1, is revealed. One that comes out of the blue for Sally, and the impact of the revelation is exactly like a bomb falling into her life. Everything seems to disintegrate around her. And then bombshell #2 hits.
By bombshell #1 I was fully invested in this struggling, grieving little family and wondered how on earth this could possibly resolve, whether there was ever going to be any chance of happiness.
This is a beautiful book, sad at times, with a huge nod to men's mental health and depression. Do read the author's letter. It made me want to give her a big hug. A compelling read to the end.
Thankyou to HQ Insiders for the chance to read this book. It's deeply moving, a heartfelt read.
September 22, 2026
Wish You Were Here is a beautifully written and deeply moving story set against the backdrop of rural South Australia. At the heart of the novel is Sally, who is struggling with grief while trying to navigate family life and find a way forward after loss.
The author handles some incredibly difficult and important topics with sensitivity and compassion. The story explores grief, addiction and the impact these experiences can have not only on individuals, but also on the people who love them. These are subjects that we need to talk about more openly, and I thought they were approached beautifully without making the story feel overwhelmingly heavy.
I really enjoyed the characters, particularly Sally’s two children and the way their neurodivergence was portrayed. They felt genuine and individual, with their own personalities and ways of experiencing the world, rather than being defined solely by their differences. They also brought plenty of warmth and humour to the story.
The complicated family dynamics added another layer, with relationships that felt messy, believable and very human. I also enjoyed the frenemies-to-lovers element, which brought some lighter moments and romance alongside the more emotional aspects of the story.
Despite tackling some challenging themes, this was an easy and engaging read. The writing flowed beautifully, and the story kept me captivated throughout. There is sadness, but also warmth, humour, family, resilience and hope.
A thoughtful and heartfelt Australian novel that approaches difficult subjects with warmth and sensitivity. Definitely one I would recommend.
Thanks to HQ Insiders for the ARC.
The author handles some incredibly difficult and important topics with sensitivity and compassion. The story explores grief, addiction and the impact these experiences can have not only on individuals, but also on the people who love them. These are subjects that we need to talk about more openly, and I thought they were approached beautifully without making the story feel overwhelmingly heavy.
I really enjoyed the characters, particularly Sally’s two children and the way their neurodivergence was portrayed. They felt genuine and individual, with their own personalities and ways of experiencing the world, rather than being defined solely by their differences. They also brought plenty of warmth and humour to the story.
The complicated family dynamics added another layer, with relationships that felt messy, believable and very human. I also enjoyed the frenemies-to-lovers element, which brought some lighter moments and romance alongside the more emotional aspects of the story.
Despite tackling some challenging themes, this was an easy and engaging read. The writing flowed beautifully, and the story kept me captivated throughout. There is sadness, but also warmth, humour, family, resilience and hope.
A thoughtful and heartfelt Australian novel that approaches difficult subjects with warmth and sensitivity. Definitely one I would recommend.
Thanks to HQ Insiders for the ARC.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Sally Jenkins is a widowed mother of 2 who is trying to run a struggling caravan park, shoulder the guilt of ruining her small town's tourism, find the money to send her son to a school that can accommodate his talents and just generally navigate the various complicated relationships in her life. Something has got to give, but not before she learns a devastating secret about her husband's death that will completely rock her world.
A heartbreaking read that deals with some tough issues in a very respectful way.
This book was really well written, has great characterisation and the story was easily accessible.I liked how well-rounded Sally and her family were as characters. I got such a great sense of who Clem and Ned were and could easily liken them to kids I grew up with.
I struggled a little in the second half because Sally repeatedly let her emotions get the better of her, which resulted in her hurting and pushing away the people who loved her the most.
However, I was really pleased with the happy ending and how we got to know exactly where every single character ended up, not just the main ones.
A heartbreaking read that deals with some tough issues in a very respectful way.
This book was really well written, has great characterisation and the story was easily accessible.I liked how well-rounded Sally and her family were as characters. I got such a great sense of who Clem and Ned were and could easily liken them to kids I grew up with.
I struggled a little in the second half because Sally repeatedly let her emotions get the better of her, which resulted in her hurting and pushing away the people who loved her the most.
However, I was really pleased with the happy ending and how we got to know exactly where every single character ended up, not just the main ones.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This book absolutely got me in the feels.
Wish You Were Here hit on one of my biggest fears as a parent—leaving my children behind—and because of that, Sally's story completely broke my heart. I was so emotionally invested in her journey that there were moments I just wanted to jump into the pages, give her the biggest hug, and tell her everything would be okay.
Sally was such a strong, courageous character, even when life threw the unimaginable at her. Watching her navigate everything she faced was both heartbreaking and inspiring.
Bernadette Eden has written a beautiful, emotional story that reminds you just how precious family, love, and the little moments in life really are. It's definitely one to have tissues nearby for, but it's also full of heart and hope.
If you're a fan of emotional women's fiction that makes you laugh, cry, and hug your loved ones a little tighter, I'd definitely recommend picking this one up.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this book x
Wish You Were Here hit on one of my biggest fears as a parent—leaving my children behind—and because of that, Sally's story completely broke my heart. I was so emotionally invested in her journey that there were moments I just wanted to jump into the pages, give her the biggest hug, and tell her everything would be okay.
Sally was such a strong, courageous character, even when life threw the unimaginable at her. Watching her navigate everything she faced was both heartbreaking and inspiring.
Bernadette Eden has written a beautiful, emotional story that reminds you just how precious family, love, and the little moments in life really are. It's definitely one to have tissues nearby for, but it's also full of heart and hope.
If you're a fan of emotional women's fiction that makes you laugh, cry, and hug your loved ones a little tighter, I'd definitely recommend picking this one up.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this book x
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October 9, 2026Wish You Were Here
Bernadette Eden.
This story covers situations of depression, suicide, mental health ,families and love , in a sensitive way.
Sally Jenkins is widowed with 2 children,trying to keep the caravan park going that she and her husband started. Still grieving she tries to raise funds to keep going.
A new resort is opening up close by that Sally can see will take her customers so she is stressed about what she can do.
Jagger her late husbands childhood friend arrives back in town. He is trying to help and support Sally and the town in general. It is a small country town which is slowly dying.
I Loved this book , it was a thoughtful book which showed how mental illness can affect us and our families, there was a romance line running through the story and then what about the mother in law and sister law the secrets they hide.
A well written book which was a lovely read to relax and enjoy.
Thank you HQ Insiders for this book. I enjoyed it very much.
This book releases in December 2026
Bernadette Eden.
This story covers situations of depression, suicide, mental health ,families and love , in a sensitive way.
Sally Jenkins is widowed with 2 children,trying to keep the caravan park going that she and her husband started. Still grieving she tries to raise funds to keep going.
A new resort is opening up close by that Sally can see will take her customers so she is stressed about what she can do.
Jagger her late husbands childhood friend arrives back in town. He is trying to help and support Sally and the town in general. It is a small country town which is slowly dying.
I Loved this book , it was a thoughtful book which showed how mental illness can affect us and our families, there was a romance line running through the story and then what about the mother in law and sister law the secrets they hide.
A well written book which was a lovely read to relax and enjoy.
Thank you HQ Insiders for this book. I enjoyed it very much.
This book releases in December 2026
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
This book is an emotional read covering sensitive topics which Bernadette Eden handles sensitively.
Sally Jenkins world has fallen apart. Her husband was killed in a cycling accident, leaving her with two young children. The caravan park they bought is struggling, and with a new resort being built nearby, she is losing hope. When her husband's friend Jagger comes back to town, it just adds more problems.
This is such an Australian story from the language used by the characters to the description of small town life and the landscapes. The support and tension between Sally and her friends and family will remind readers of situations they have been in
At times my heart broke reading this but there are also touches of humour through it. Even with the sensitive topics in the book, the author has given us a story that leaves the reader feeling optimistic and joyful.
This is a realistic book, which I will be reading again. It is a wonderful debut novel.
Sally Jenkins world has fallen apart. Her husband was killed in a cycling accident, leaving her with two young children. The caravan park they bought is struggling, and with a new resort being built nearby, she is losing hope. When her husband's friend Jagger comes back to town, it just adds more problems.
This is such an Australian story from the language used by the characters to the description of small town life and the landscapes. The support and tension between Sally and her friends and family will remind readers of situations they have been in
At times my heart broke reading this but there are also touches of humour through it. Even with the sensitive topics in the book, the author has given us a story that leaves the reader feeling optimistic and joyful.
This is a realistic book, which I will be reading again. It is a wonderful debut novel.
September 20, 2026
This is a very good debut novel by Bernadette Eden who delved into the topics of mental health, depression, grief, loss and suicide to bring a heartfelt story to life.
Four years after the loss of her husband, Sally is struggling through her grief to raise her two children and keep her failing caravan park, a business she bought with her husband, from going under. She feels pressure from her local community, the new resort being built on the other side of town and can’t seem to ask for help.
This book opens the door to have those difficult conversations and you can’t help but fall in love with Sally and her children.
Four years after the loss of her husband, Sally is struggling through her grief to raise her two children and keep her failing caravan park, a business she bought with her husband, from going under. She feels pressure from her local community, the new resort being built on the other side of town and can’t seem to ask for help.
This book opens the door to have those difficult conversations and you can’t help but fall in love with Sally and her children.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Thank you to HQ Insiders for the ARC of this book.
I was instantly drawn in by the synopsis of this book (who doesn't love caravan parks!) but it was so much more than just that. Sally is the kind of main character that you can't help but love .... As her story unfolded, there was nothing I wanted more than to wrap her in a big hug and tell her it would all be ok.
Bernadette Eden has crafted such a beautiful tale in this book; rich with the guilt Sally feels about the town she calls home and the toll her husband's death has had on her family, joined with the weight of family secrets, it's an open discussion on mental health and how no one is immune from it.
Highly recommend this book.
I was instantly drawn in by the synopsis of this book (who doesn't love caravan parks!) but it was so much more than just that. Sally is the kind of main character that you can't help but love .... As her story unfolded, there was nothing I wanted more than to wrap her in a big hug and tell her it would all be ok.
Bernadette Eden has crafted such a beautiful tale in this book; rich with the guilt Sally feels about the town she calls home and the toll her husband's death has had on her family, joined with the weight of family secrets, it's an open discussion on mental health and how no one is immune from it.
Highly recommend this book.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Sally has hit a rough patch in her life. Her adored husband, Mark has passed away and left her with two challenging kids and a run-down caravan park. And maybe she is not coping very well.
Luckily she has a cast of support in her dad and friends in the town of Mount Mirabella.
There are mysteries and secrets galore with Sally fighting her way to a happier future, we hope.
The story is warm and wise, like a hug from Mum. If you enjoy Kim Lock or Monica McInerney you will love this book.
Thanks to HQ Insiders for an ARC.
Luckily she has a cast of support in her dad and friends in the town of Mount Mirabella.
There are mysteries and secrets galore with Sally fighting her way to a happier future, we hope.
The story is warm and wise, like a hug from Mum. If you enjoy Kim Lock or Monica McInerney you will love this book.
Thanks to HQ Insiders for an ARC.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Sally is a grieving widow with two young children and she is running a run down caravan park trying to keep going. I just wanted to jump into the book and tell Sally that everything would be alright. The emotional depth is outstanding for a debut book. It's warm, funny and heartfelt. The grief is dealt with understanding and compassion. I appreciate the patience and I connected with the characters.
September 23, 2026
This was a story of recovery and life after tragedy. I cried through it as Sally navigated through her new normal and her children navigated around her.
So many of the feelings relating to mental health and depression were quite confronting, but in a good way.
A line I loved in this book and one I will be quoting endlessly “the sun will rise and fall even on the shittiest of times but why not enjoy the view regardless?
An enjoyable read nonetheless.
Thankyou for this advance copy HQ Insiders.
So many of the feelings relating to mental health and depression were quite confronting, but in a good way.
A line I loved in this book and one I will be quoting endlessly “the sun will rise and fall even on the shittiest of times but why not enjoy the view regardless?
An enjoyable read nonetheless.
Thankyou for this advance copy HQ Insiders.
October 1, 2026
This debut novel is an excellent portrayal of grief and explores the after effects of tragedy in a nuanced and thoughtful way. Sally isn’t perfect which makes her even more likeable as she works her way through what life is throwing at her. I also really enjoyed the setting of Mount Mirabella, capturing life in rural Australia and the challenges facing these towns but also what’s so wonderful about many of these communities.
Thanks to HQ insiders for an advanced copy
Thanks to HQ insiders for an advanced copy
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Such a feel good book! There are lots of bumps along the journey, but it's a beautiful reminder of being human- some days will push you until you almost break and others, you can take on anything!
September 24, 2026
Wish You Were Here is Bernadette Eden’s upcoming novel. Sally is a widowed single mother who can’t take a trick. Struggling to keep her families Caravan Park afloat and trying to get her gifted son into a school that will help him excel, Sally must find a way to get herself out of the red. To make things worse, Jagger, her husband’s best friend waltz’s back into town with a secret that could blow everything up.
It did take me a little bit to get into, but once I was sucked in I couldn’t put it down. A thought provoking read that tackles life after losing a loved one in a tragic way. The story is full of twists and turns, with lots of secrets, that all come out and make things for the better.
Thanks to HQ Insiders for the chance to read and review.
It did take me a little bit to get into, but once I was sucked in I couldn’t put it down. A thought provoking read that tackles life after losing a loved one in a tragic way. The story is full of twists and turns, with lots of secrets, that all come out and make things for the better.
Thanks to HQ Insiders for the chance to read and review.
September 26, 2026
This book is light, warm and genuinely funny all while delicately balancing heavier themes of mental health and grief.
Sally is a flawed but incredibly endearing protagonist and she’s very easy to root for. The story pulls you in quickly and is an easy, enjoyable read. Despite the heavier themes I thought the blend of light and dark was really well done.
I usually get a bit miffed by storylines that feel too convenient, and this story is definitely tied up pretty neatly. But it completely worked for me here. Even though the book handles some really heavy emotional weight, its core perspective is ultimately warm and optimistic that the neat conclusion felt earned rather than cheap.
Sally is a flawed but incredibly endearing protagonist and she’s very easy to root for. The story pulls you in quickly and is an easy, enjoyable read. Despite the heavier themes I thought the blend of light and dark was really well done.
I usually get a bit miffed by storylines that feel too convenient, and this story is definitely tied up pretty neatly. But it completely worked for me here. Even though the book handles some really heavy emotional weight, its core perspective is ultimately warm and optimistic that the neat conclusion felt earned rather than cheap.
September 5, 2026
Sally is running a caravan park mostly on her on, she's struggling, the van park is struggling, the townspeople think opening up the mountain bike trails is the only thing that will save the van park and the town. But how can Sally do that when her husband lost his life on those trails??
I enjoyed this story far more then I was expecting to. The small town is fictional but could be any small town in Australia.
It was a good debut novel, touching on mental health and family issues. I think fans of Frances Whiting books would enjoy this story.
I enjoyed this story far more then I was expecting to. The small town is fictional but could be any small town in Australia.
It was a good debut novel, touching on mental health and family issues. I think fans of Frances Whiting books would enjoy this story.
September 4, 2026
A lovely thought provoking book. Sally is a widower who is trying to keep her failing caravan park afloat after the unexpected death of her husband. The book covers some hard themes such as grief, bullying, financial hardships, secrets and depression. But does it in a sensitive and humourous way. Hope is present throughout the book as is love. Beautifully written with realistic characters and a setting that is well portrayed.
Thank you to HQ insiders for a copy to read and review
Thank you to HQ insiders for a copy to read and review
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