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Blue Wren Shallows #1
Carry Me Home
Finella Mayfield hates two things: liars and thieves. And she’s determined to marry a man who’s neither. Chasing her dead father’s dreams, the twenty-year-old English bride arrives in Australia in 1875 for an arranged marriage. Anticipating her future as village preacher’s wife, she records her thoughts in her Everlasting journal.
But instead of her fiancé, Finella is met by Shadrach Jones, a poor farmer sent to collect her from the busy Melbourne pier.
This is not what her father planned. And it’s only the beginning of the unraveling of Finella Mayfield ~ the bride with no groom.
All Shadrach Jones longs for is rows of mustard and chicory. He’s busy growing a farm near the Phillip Island fishing village of Cowes, and caring for Molly, his simple sister. Far from the brutal life they remember with their ex-convict father, Shadrach’s building something new.
But he’s also made a promise to a dying friend. To collect and marry the English girl destined to never be a preacher’s wife.
Can Shadrach convince Finella she has a future with a farmer? Can he convince himself, knowing his family secrets will haunt their future?
Carry Me Home ~ Book 1 in the Blue Wren Shallows series. An Australian historical romance set in the pioneering era of the 1870s, on Victoria’s majestic Phillip Island.
But instead of her fiancé, Finella is met by Shadrach Jones, a poor farmer sent to collect her from the busy Melbourne pier.
This is not what her father planned. And it’s only the beginning of the unraveling of Finella Mayfield ~ the bride with no groom.
All Shadrach Jones longs for is rows of mustard and chicory. He’s busy growing a farm near the Phillip Island fishing village of Cowes, and caring for Molly, his simple sister. Far from the brutal life they remember with their ex-convict father, Shadrach’s building something new.
But he’s also made a promise to a dying friend. To collect and marry the English girl destined to never be a preacher’s wife.
Can Shadrach convince Finella she has a future with a farmer? Can he convince himself, knowing his family secrets will haunt their future?
Carry Me Home ~ Book 1 in the Blue Wren Shallows series. An Australian historical romance set in the pioneering era of the 1870s, on Victoria’s majestic Phillip Island.
338 pages, Paperback
First published December 1, 2015
12 people are currently reading
612 people want to read
About the author
Dorothy Adamek
3 books281 followersAustralian author, Dorothy Adamek, writes Displacement Fiction ~ the stories of people upended by tragedy and trauma, and their struggle to belong in their new world. Couched in romance, her fiction is set in the late Victorian era. She is the author of Carry Me Home, the first book in the Blue Wren Shallows trilogy, and resides with her family in the world’s most liveable city, Melbourne.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 60 reviews
December 9, 2015
In Carry Me Home, Dorothy Adamek gives a familiar tale a fresh Australian twist. With gripping characters, a playful romance, delightful writing, and heart-rending moments, this novel held me tight and wouldn’t let me go. Why, this gifted writer even makes mud romantic! A sterling debut!
February 12, 2017
I’m not a big reader of 19th century romances, especially with ladies in long flowing dresses on the cover. I have an assumption that they’ll be a bit sickly sweet and that I won’t identify with the characters. But, within a few pages I discovered with relief that Carry Me Home is different.
It is well-written and beautiful in the way that beauty is when it’s forged from tragedy. The characters are flawed and multi-layered, the storyline and sub-plots are original and twisty, it has mostly non-clichéd secondary characters (the Pastor, Goliah, is a hoot) and a location that is right out of my childhood. Literally. Which is why I picked up this book in the first place.
Carry Me Home is set on Phillip Island, just outside Melbourne. I spent countless holidays there as a child. Small towns, gentle beaches, rugged coastlines, rolling countryside, koalas and penguins. It seems Phillip Island holds the same nostalgic magic for Dorothy Adamek and she does the landscape and its history justice.
And boy, can Adamek write a good hero! I was smitten with Shadrach immediately. You can tell she visualises each scene because the movements come alive on the page, which is magical when witnessing the growing attraction between Shad and Finella. It had my pulse racing! (This is who Adamek pictures as Shadrach: https://au.pinterest.com/pin/26331990... - :))
She deftly turns that spark into a gradual and deep abiding love worn deeper by the internal and external conflicts each has to overcome.
The thread of Christian faith weaves so gently through the story that I believe it would appeal to all readers, regardless of beliefs, who enjoy a well-written story of finding where one’s heart belongs.
I'm not 100% sure I'm happy with the ending, I'll need a few days to mull it over. Even so, Carry Me Home is the best piece of romantic fiction I’ve read in a long time. And as it’s romance week and I’m feeling all fuzzy and loved up, I might give another one a go….
Carry Me Home is the first in the Blue Wren Shallows trilogy and I eagerly await the next one.
It is well-written and beautiful in the way that beauty is when it’s forged from tragedy. The characters are flawed and multi-layered, the storyline and sub-plots are original and twisty, it has mostly non-clichéd secondary characters (the Pastor, Goliah, is a hoot) and a location that is right out of my childhood. Literally. Which is why I picked up this book in the first place.
Carry Me Home is set on Phillip Island, just outside Melbourne. I spent countless holidays there as a child. Small towns, gentle beaches, rugged coastlines, rolling countryside, koalas and penguins. It seems Phillip Island holds the same nostalgic magic for Dorothy Adamek and she does the landscape and its history justice.
And boy, can Adamek write a good hero! I was smitten with Shadrach immediately. You can tell she visualises each scene because the movements come alive on the page, which is magical when witnessing the growing attraction between Shad and Finella. It had my pulse racing! (This is who Adamek pictures as Shadrach: https://au.pinterest.com/pin/26331990... - :))
She deftly turns that spark into a gradual and deep abiding love worn deeper by the internal and external conflicts each has to overcome.
The thread of Christian faith weaves so gently through the story that I believe it would appeal to all readers, regardless of beliefs, who enjoy a well-written story of finding where one’s heart belongs.
I'm not 100% sure I'm happy with the ending, I'll need a few days to mull it over. Even so, Carry Me Home is the best piece of romantic fiction I’ve read in a long time. And as it’s romance week and I’m feeling all fuzzy and loved up, I might give another one a go….
Carry Me Home is the first in the Blue Wren Shallows trilogy and I eagerly await the next one.
January 10, 2016
Beautifully written debut.
It was the cover and Australian setting that drew me in. It was the writing style that had me engrossed in this novel from page one. The writing was at once simple and flowery. In the pages, I visited the mud mired Australian farm Finella found herself in quite by accident. I felt Molly's outlook of sunshine and rainbows. I saw the flowers and birds the author described. I heard Shadrach's deep voice. I was there.
The story line was believable. Sometimes life's course is changed by one or two seemingly small shifts. The struggles Finella felt between her old world and a new possibility were realistic.
It was a lovely novel and I look forward to the next book in this series, Carry Me Away.
I highly recommend this novel for fans of Jody Hedlund and Lori Benton.
It was the cover and Australian setting that drew me in. It was the writing style that had me engrossed in this novel from page one. The writing was at once simple and flowery. In the pages, I visited the mud mired Australian farm Finella found herself in quite by accident. I felt Molly's outlook of sunshine and rainbows. I saw the flowers and birds the author described. I heard Shadrach's deep voice. I was there.
The story line was believable. Sometimes life's course is changed by one or two seemingly small shifts. The struggles Finella felt between her old world and a new possibility were realistic.
It was a lovely novel and I look forward to the next book in this series, Carry Me Away.
I highly recommend this novel for fans of Jody Hedlund and Lori Benton.
December 7, 2015
Carry Me Home is a fabulous debut for Dorothy Adamek. It is beautifully written, with fascinating characters, and wonderful historical Australia. What is not to love?
I highly recommend this book and can not wait to read more by this author.
5 plus stars.
I highly recommend this book and can not wait to read more by this author.
5 plus stars.
December 10, 2015
Orphaned Finella Mayfield arrives in Australia in 1875, expecting to marry the preacher on Phillip Island, but instead finds herself as nanny/companion to fourteen-year-old Molly Jones, in the care of her brother, Shadrach, a simple farmer. It’s a far cry from the life she was expecting, and she records her thoughts in her Everlasting journal.
Shadrach, the son of a convict, would have been attracted to Finella even if he hadn’t promised the preacher to marry her and care for her . . . not that he’s dared tell Finella that titbit. He just hopes he can convince her to stay, despite only being able to offer dirt, hard work and poverty—the opposite of the life she deserves.
Finella was a distant character, especially in the beginning, which made her hard to get to know. Despite this, she was easy to sympathise with, arriving in a strange place, knowing no one, and having her expected future stolen from her. We got to know her gradually, through her journal and through her outbursts towards Shadrach, and it occurs to me that this is how we get to know many people in real life: gradually, as people open up more once trust has been established.
Shadrach was equally likeable, a noble character despite the misfortunes of his upbringing, and someone who occasionally did stupid things to get the attention of the woman he loves. But I think my favourite character was the spirited but simple Molly, who did more than anyone to bring Finella out of her shell. The plot was also excellent, with more than one unexpected event, and I was blown away by the depth of the historical research, and the way it was subtly layered into the plot.
I rarely cry when reading novels. That might be that I deliberately don’t pick emotion-packed stories to read, or that I’m too hard-nosed to cry. But I definitely teared up reading Carry Me Home, which is a testament to the quality of the writing, both in the way it made me care about the characters, and the way it inspired emotion. An excellent debut, recommended for anyone looking for a historical romance with a difference.
Thanks to Dorothy Adamek and Relz Reviews for providing a free ebook for review.
Shadrach, the son of a convict, would have been attracted to Finella even if he hadn’t promised the preacher to marry her and care for her . . . not that he’s dared tell Finella that titbit. He just hopes he can convince her to stay, despite only being able to offer dirt, hard work and poverty—the opposite of the life she deserves.
Finella was a distant character, especially in the beginning, which made her hard to get to know. Despite this, she was easy to sympathise with, arriving in a strange place, knowing no one, and having her expected future stolen from her. We got to know her gradually, through her journal and through her outbursts towards Shadrach, and it occurs to me that this is how we get to know many people in real life: gradually, as people open up more once trust has been established.
Shadrach was equally likeable, a noble character despite the misfortunes of his upbringing, and someone who occasionally did stupid things to get the attention of the woman he loves. But I think my favourite character was the spirited but simple Molly, who did more than anyone to bring Finella out of her shell. The plot was also excellent, with more than one unexpected event, and I was blown away by the depth of the historical research, and the way it was subtly layered into the plot.
I rarely cry when reading novels. That might be that I deliberately don’t pick emotion-packed stories to read, or that I’m too hard-nosed to cry. But I definitely teared up reading Carry Me Home, which is a testament to the quality of the writing, both in the way it made me care about the characters, and the way it inspired emotion. An excellent debut, recommended for anyone looking for a historical romance with a difference.
Thanks to Dorothy Adamek and Relz Reviews for providing a free ebook for review.
December 27, 2015
The year is 1875 and Finella Mayfield sails from England to Australia to marry a respected preacher. However, when she arrives at Phillip Island, things do not turn out as planned. Rather than a comfortable life as a preacher's wife, she finds herself living in a shack on farmer Shadrach Jones's property caring for his mentally challenged 14-year-old sister Molly. Although a bond quickly develops between Finella and Molly, this is not the life Finella had dreamed of. Shadrach certainly has his appeal, but it's not enough to overcome the mud and primitive conditions in which she lives. She decides to stay only until her aunt arrives from England, but a lot can happen in a few months. Will Finella follow her heart or will the past stop her from embracing her future?
I really enjoyed this debut novel from Australian author Dorothy Adamek. The two protagonists are endearing, but well-rounded and come across as real people with very human flaws. The character of Molly adds an extra dimension to the story, as the developing romance between Finella and Shadrach is very much tied up with the welfare of young Molly. The historical elements were woven into the story well and it was refreshing to see an Australian setting that was a bit different.
Finella and Shadrach each have a strong faith which informs their actions. However, the faith elements are conveyed in a sensitive way that never feels preachy. Both of the protagonists have to grapple with loss and forgiveness in order to move on, and their struggles will resonate with readers.
The author has also gone to a lot of trouble to inject the prose with strong verbs and interesting metaphors and similes. For example: 'the shadows matched the tides, and night lapped at the edge of the day'; 'a well-known ache dragged across his chest like a rusty anchor tangled in a reef' and 'like a cool wind, his words draped Finella with an expected freshness'.
This is the first in the Blue Wren Shallows series and I'm looking forward to the next one. If you like historical romance, there is a lot to enjoy in this book.
I really enjoyed this debut novel from Australian author Dorothy Adamek. The two protagonists are endearing, but well-rounded and come across as real people with very human flaws. The character of Molly adds an extra dimension to the story, as the developing romance between Finella and Shadrach is very much tied up with the welfare of young Molly. The historical elements were woven into the story well and it was refreshing to see an Australian setting that was a bit different.
Finella and Shadrach each have a strong faith which informs their actions. However, the faith elements are conveyed in a sensitive way that never feels preachy. Both of the protagonists have to grapple with loss and forgiveness in order to move on, and their struggles will resonate with readers.
The author has also gone to a lot of trouble to inject the prose with strong verbs and interesting metaphors and similes. For example: 'the shadows matched the tides, and night lapped at the edge of the day'; 'a well-known ache dragged across his chest like a rusty anchor tangled in a reef' and 'like a cool wind, his words draped Finella with an expected freshness'.
This is the first in the Blue Wren Shallows series and I'm looking forward to the next one. If you like historical romance, there is a lot to enjoy in this book.
July 27, 2019
This book pretty much left me speechless. I'm going to try and share my feelings in this review. This is the first novel I have read set in Australia. I thought it was very interesting reading about the seasons and the agriculture. The main character, Finella was very relatable to me. She seems to have her life together but she struggles with complaining and selfishness in the beginning. The dialog between her and Molly and Shad is excellent! There were so many touching chapters. I felt like I was right there on the beach with them. One part bothered me and I lost that connection with Finella. I'm not going to spoil it, but I will say that I didn't understand her during this situation. Thankfully it got right back on tract for me and finished beautifully. I highly recommend Carry Me Home to readers who enjoy historical love stories.
July 9, 2024
This is a historical romance set in Australia in the nineteenth century. It is about a twenty-year-old who arrives from England to marry the man her dead father chose for her. She is also determined to find the thief who caused her mother's death. Stuck in a strange land with nobody she knows, she finds happiness caring for a mischievous girl and in doing so, falls in love with her brother. This is a beautiful love story. The writing is simple yet powerful. The characters are amazing. The twist near the end was completely unexpected. What I learned from this book is the power of forgiveness. It can make a huge difference in anyone's life.
I won this book in a Goodreads giveaway.
I won this book in a Goodreads giveaway.
December 8, 2015
Dorothy Adamek's debut novel Carry Me Home was a page turning read from start to finish. With interesting, well developed and believable characters, this is a classic fish out of water story--the "fish" being the very beautiful and well-bred Finella Mayfield.
For as long as Finella can remember, her destiny has been to be the wife of a preacher, and serve both him and his flock. After years of gentle courtship by mail, Finella is finally traveling to Australia to marry her pastor fiance, but tragedy upon tragedy throws those plans into disarray. Now, far from home and all alone, a temporary solution comes her way through Shadrach Jones, a poor farmer of convict stock. A most unsuitable situation, in Finella's opinion, but it has to do until her austere aunt is able to make her way from England and rescue her from this uncouth life on Phillip Island.
The author has done a wonderful job of crafting the pace of this novel--from the start, right through to the unexpected dramatic turn of events near the end of the book. Although the book does have a Christian basis, the author has handled this aspect with a gentle hand.
Carry Me Home is highly recommended for those who enjoy clean historical romances. My only hope is that Dorothy is busy writing the second book in the Blue Wren Shallows series. I haven't read a book this fast in quite a long time.
(And just have to say ... that cover is glorious. Makes me want to pack up and head to Phillip Island tomorrow.)
For as long as Finella can remember, her destiny has been to be the wife of a preacher, and serve both him and his flock. After years of gentle courtship by mail, Finella is finally traveling to Australia to marry her pastor fiance, but tragedy upon tragedy throws those plans into disarray. Now, far from home and all alone, a temporary solution comes her way through Shadrach Jones, a poor farmer of convict stock. A most unsuitable situation, in Finella's opinion, but it has to do until her austere aunt is able to make her way from England and rescue her from this uncouth life on Phillip Island.
The author has done a wonderful job of crafting the pace of this novel--from the start, right through to the unexpected dramatic turn of events near the end of the book. Although the book does have a Christian basis, the author has handled this aspect with a gentle hand.
Carry Me Home is highly recommended for those who enjoy clean historical romances. My only hope is that Dorothy is busy writing the second book in the Blue Wren Shallows series. I haven't read a book this fast in quite a long time.
(And just have to say ... that cover is glorious. Makes me want to pack up and head to Phillip Island tomorrow.)
December 1, 2015
This is a wonderful debut novel by Dorothy Adamek. Book one in her Blue Wren Shallows, set in Australia at the end of the nineteenth century, Carry Me Home is a sweeping novel that carries the reader away to another world.
Finella has come to Australia to marry the minister her father has chosen for her. Her father dies on the trip to Australia and when she arrives, the preacher has died, too. However, the preacher has asked his friend, Shadrach Jones, to marry Finella and fulfill his obligation to her. Finella wants no part of this. Shadrach is determined to honor his dead friend's wishes, and sets about winning Finella's heart.
Dorothy Adamek has crafted characters that seem real to the reader and her vivid descriptions of life in the Australian bush bring them to life! I could have sworn I was there during the reading of this book.I was very impressed with everything about this book. It did not read like an amateur effort, but was very well written and held my interest completely. I do believe Dorothy Adamek is an author to watch in the future.
The novel speaks of God's grace for us all. Guilt is a burden God never intended for His children to bear and this book teaches a wonderful lesson for believers.
I highly recommend this novel.
*I was given a copy of this book by the author in exchange for my honest review, which I have given. All opinions are my own.
Finella has come to Australia to marry the minister her father has chosen for her. Her father dies on the trip to Australia and when she arrives, the preacher has died, too. However, the preacher has asked his friend, Shadrach Jones, to marry Finella and fulfill his obligation to her. Finella wants no part of this. Shadrach is determined to honor his dead friend's wishes, and sets about winning Finella's heart.
Dorothy Adamek has crafted characters that seem real to the reader and her vivid descriptions of life in the Australian bush bring them to life! I could have sworn I was there during the reading of this book.I was very impressed with everything about this book. It did not read like an amateur effort, but was very well written and held my interest completely. I do believe Dorothy Adamek is an author to watch in the future.
The novel speaks of God's grace for us all. Guilt is a burden God never intended for His children to bear and this book teaches a wonderful lesson for believers.
I highly recommend this novel.
*I was given a copy of this book by the author in exchange for my honest review, which I have given. All opinions are my own.
May 17, 2016
This is definitely one for sweet romance lovers. The story, written alternatively from Finella’s and Shadrach’s point of view, follows the ups and downs and frustrations of their sometimes tender and cheeky and other times fragile and fraught relationship. Both characters are likeable and engaging and both have deep issues which take the story through some unexpected twists and turns. Shadrach’s young sister, Molly, is completely endearing, probably my favourite in the story. There are very emotive issues around her character and a reader should expect to shed tears at a number of points.
The setting on Phillip Island is well described. I could sometimes feel the sand or mud between my toes. And there’s an interesting historical and cultural side story about mutton bird egg gathering, which provides some lightness and a good distraction from the interpersonal conflict and agonising over the outcome of the relationship.
Dorothy addresses the Christian and spiritual values and needs of the characters in a well- balanced, meaningful and sensitive way, which gives a good message without being preachy. The issues of developing trust, adjusting to change, loss and grief, and forgiveness are all woven thoughtfully and realistically into the story.
An excellent first book in a series and I’ll look forward to reading the sequel.
The setting on Phillip Island is well described. I could sometimes feel the sand or mud between my toes. And there’s an interesting historical and cultural side story about mutton bird egg gathering, which provides some lightness and a good distraction from the interpersonal conflict and agonising over the outcome of the relationship.
Dorothy addresses the Christian and spiritual values and needs of the characters in a well- balanced, meaningful and sensitive way, which gives a good message without being preachy. The issues of developing trust, adjusting to change, loss and grief, and forgiveness are all woven thoughtfully and realistically into the story.
An excellent first book in a series and I’ll look forward to reading the sequel.
January 18, 2016
Stunning debut novel! Exquisite writing creates vivid pictures guaranteed to carry any reader away. Loved the 'exotic' setting (well Phillip Island is exotic to this Canadian.) So refreshing to read a historical romance set outside North America or England. That alone made me eager to read this story. And the beautiful cover begged me to keep her at the top of the TBR pile. She wasn't in my home long before a peek inside captured my fancy and sent me on a dramatic tilt-a-whirl reading frenzy.
Emotions exude from every page. Heart-rending, funny, romantic and sometimes devastating. There were times I forgot to breathe. Take one proud and stubborn farmer doing his best to eke out a living under harsh conditions. Add one displaced English bride-without-a-groom, Throw them together in remote circumstances and watch the sparks fly.
Major clashing of wills and hidden sorrows make the going rough but there are some beautifully tender moments as well. And a very romantic muddy romp that made me giddy. Adamek captures it all -- the witty banter and blistering arguments. The nursing of hurt feelings. The fragile hope that comes from an unexpected act of kindness. I laughed and swooned and cried bitterly before I reached the end of this blissfully captivating read.
Emotions exude from every page. Heart-rending, funny, romantic and sometimes devastating. There were times I forgot to breathe. Take one proud and stubborn farmer doing his best to eke out a living under harsh conditions. Add one displaced English bride-without-a-groom, Throw them together in remote circumstances and watch the sparks fly.
Major clashing of wills and hidden sorrows make the going rough but there are some beautifully tender moments as well. And a very romantic muddy romp that made me giddy. Adamek captures it all -- the witty banter and blistering arguments. The nursing of hurt feelings. The fragile hope that comes from an unexpected act of kindness. I laughed and swooned and cried bitterly before I reached the end of this blissfully captivating read.
December 1, 2015
I would like to say that it was the cover and the synopsis that let me know that this would be a magnificent story, but it was the beautiful lyrical words that were splashed across the first page that pulled me into the story. I knew the moment that Finella called her journal the Everlasting that I was in for a journey and adventure. I knew that I was getting a glimpse of a wonderful tale when George asked Shad to fulfill a promise. The love, forgiveness and healing that leaps off the pages and tugs at your heart leaves you breathless and makes you examine your relationship with our awesome Creator. There was a moment in the story where I couldn't contain my tears, yes they washed over me, and I wondered if I could have that type of will to forgive and love again.
January 7, 2016
A sweeping love story set in 19th Century Australia. It features some of my favourite romantic tropes: including a woman ahead of her time in a situation where she has to adapt quickly---proving her strength and indomitable spirit-- a romance borne of necessity and a marriage of convenience. I immediately fell into the world --- a unique setting for me as I haven't read a ton of historicals set in Australia--- and in love with the characters.
Perhaps the best part? Adamek has a deceptively easy style that lures you into what is (upon slow consideration) a natural writing talent: swift and beguiling and spinning a tapestry I know I want to return to. Readers of Jody Hedlund: take note
Perhaps the best part? Adamek has a deceptively easy style that lures you into what is (upon slow consideration) a natural writing talent: swift and beguiling and spinning a tapestry I know I want to return to. Readers of Jody Hedlund: take note
January 1, 2016
I really enjoyed reading the story of Shadrach Jones and Finella Mayfield.
Finella arrives in Phillip Island expecting to marry the local preacher, a role she has been preparing for her whole life, only to find a completely different adventure is in store for her. She finds herself in the home of Shadrach and Molly Jones, caring for young Molly in a World that is completely different to the one she has known or had expected.
Dorothy has done a wonderful job sharing the world of 1870s Phillip Island. The themes of love and forgiveness are strong and, while it's a Christian book, non-Christians will still enjoy the story. There are a lot of twists and turns that will keep even the most avid of romance readers guessing.
Finella arrives in Phillip Island expecting to marry the local preacher, a role she has been preparing for her whole life, only to find a completely different adventure is in store for her. She finds herself in the home of Shadrach and Molly Jones, caring for young Molly in a World that is completely different to the one she has known or had expected.
Dorothy has done a wonderful job sharing the world of 1870s Phillip Island. The themes of love and forgiveness are strong and, while it's a Christian book, non-Christians will still enjoy the story. There are a lot of twists and turns that will keep even the most avid of romance readers guessing.
May 22, 2016
You can’t judge a book by its cover, but if you look at this and think of a poetic romance set in a wild and vast land, then you will not be disappointed. The writing is nothing short of poetic brilliance. I found myself re-reading whole sections, just to enjoy the words. These characters are lovable, while still having a believably that complements the harsh Australian colonial setting. I enjoyed this story immensely. My only disappointment was that there was so much action at the end. I would have liked to have had some of that intensity spread out. I highly recommend this book. The writing alone will delight you, but combined with these complex characters and well researched story, it left me wanting to read more.
October 12, 2019
I love it when you pick up a new-to-me author and feel as though you’ve discovered a long lost friend. Perhaps it helps that this novel is set in my home country, Australia—you don’t find many of those in Christian fiction—but even had it been set elsewhere, I think it’s safe to say I would have fallen in love with this author’s writing and her characters from the very beginning. Adamek’s prose is lyrical and fresh and felt totally authentic for the period she was portraying, and she invites the reader into the heart of her characters so naturally, you’re caught up in their world in a matter of breaths.
Even were that not the case, it would have been difficult not to feel for Finella, who arrives in Australia after months of sea travel only to find all her plans eroding beneath her feet. Alone in an unfamiliar country and half a world away from everything she knows, it’s a difficult period of adjustment, particularly in Shadrach and Molly’s very simple accommodations! But Molly makes all the difference. She’s one of those secondary characters who really enriches a story, and her friendship with Finella is endearing, giving Finella purpose and companionship when she needs it most.
I wasn’t too far into the story before I realised Shadrach was quickly becoming a new favourite hero. I suspect my opinion was sealed about the time he gave Finella a lesson on baking damper! But then there’s the shells, and the mud bricks, and his devotion to his sister’s well-being, not to mention the oven… He’s a man who knows how to love well, and when he’s determined, nothing can turn him from his course.
Add to all this a plot that was captivating in its own right, frequently delivering the unexpected, be it delight, hardship, sorrow, or hope, and you have the makings of a story every historical romance lover should read.
Even were that not the case, it would have been difficult not to feel for Finella, who arrives in Australia after months of sea travel only to find all her plans eroding beneath her feet. Alone in an unfamiliar country and half a world away from everything she knows, it’s a difficult period of adjustment, particularly in Shadrach and Molly’s very simple accommodations! But Molly makes all the difference. She’s one of those secondary characters who really enriches a story, and her friendship with Finella is endearing, giving Finella purpose and companionship when she needs it most.
I wasn’t too far into the story before I realised Shadrach was quickly becoming a new favourite hero. I suspect my opinion was sealed about the time he gave Finella a lesson on baking damper! But then there’s the shells, and the mud bricks, and his devotion to his sister’s well-being, not to mention the oven… He’s a man who knows how to love well, and when he’s determined, nothing can turn him from his course.
Add to all this a plot that was captivating in its own right, frequently delivering the unexpected, be it delight, hardship, sorrow, or hope, and you have the makings of a story every historical romance lover should read.
December 17, 2015
Romance Down Under!
In her debut novel Carry Me Home, Dorothy Adamek pens a poignant, heartrending novel of a young woman's quest for love—a journey that transports her to a land both fearsome and beauteous with its raw terrain of red mud, heat, and incessant rain—contrasting with gorgeous blue wrens, purple-petaled Little Noonflowers, wild roses, and the glorious shell-covered beaches of the land down under...Australia.
Finella Mayfield travels from England to Phillips Island, Australia, anticipating her future as a preacher's bride in an prearranged marriage. Instead Finella is met by Shadrach Jones, a poor farmer whose only desire is to grow chicory, mustard, and care for his simple minded sister, Molly. Unbeknownst to Finella, Shad has made a promise to a dying friend to marry her, but how will he ever accomplish that feat? When all that greets Finella when she arrives at his dwelling is a crude mud hut surrounded by red mud and puddles, with no oven and nothing but filth inside. She is used to fancy things and her destiny is to be the wife of a preacher...or is it?
In her lovely lyrical prose, Dorothy Adamek has written a stunning debut novel that nearly took my breath away! Have you ever finished a book and couldn't stop thinking about it for hours? This unforgettable story truly had that affect on me! I'm astounded that this is Ms. Adamek's first novel as her impeccable and descriptive phraseology is that of a much more seasoned author. Not only is it a treasure trove of Australian info for all of you "land down under" fans like me, but also a compelling, angst-filled, tender love story with plenty of romantic tension! Sweet Molly will undoubtedly steal your heart as she did Finella's...and mine. And there's nothing quite as captivating as a complex hero who will do anything for the woman he loves. With an inspirational thread of forgiveness and redemption certain to bring tears to your eyes...be sure to put Carry Me Home on your Christmas "hint" list this year!
In her debut novel Carry Me Home, Dorothy Adamek pens a poignant, heartrending novel of a young woman's quest for love—a journey that transports her to a land both fearsome and beauteous with its raw terrain of red mud, heat, and incessant rain—contrasting with gorgeous blue wrens, purple-petaled Little Noonflowers, wild roses, and the glorious shell-covered beaches of the land down under...Australia.
Finella Mayfield travels from England to Phillips Island, Australia, anticipating her future as a preacher's bride in an prearranged marriage. Instead Finella is met by Shadrach Jones, a poor farmer whose only desire is to grow chicory, mustard, and care for his simple minded sister, Molly. Unbeknownst to Finella, Shad has made a promise to a dying friend to marry her, but how will he ever accomplish that feat? When all that greets Finella when she arrives at his dwelling is a crude mud hut surrounded by red mud and puddles, with no oven and nothing but filth inside. She is used to fancy things and her destiny is to be the wife of a preacher...or is it?
In her lovely lyrical prose, Dorothy Adamek has written a stunning debut novel that nearly took my breath away! Have you ever finished a book and couldn't stop thinking about it for hours? This unforgettable story truly had that affect on me! I'm astounded that this is Ms. Adamek's first novel as her impeccable and descriptive phraseology is that of a much more seasoned author. Not only is it a treasure trove of Australian info for all of you "land down under" fans like me, but also a compelling, angst-filled, tender love story with plenty of romantic tension! Sweet Molly will undoubtedly steal your heart as she did Finella's...and mine. And there's nothing quite as captivating as a complex hero who will do anything for the woman he loves. With an inspirational thread of forgiveness and redemption certain to bring tears to your eyes...be sure to put Carry Me Home on your Christmas "hint" list this year!
December 31, 2015
Wow, this book was incredible. When I learned about Carry Me Home and the opportunity to influence for it, I wasn’t entirely sure what I was getting myself into. Reviewing a book can be a risk, especially with new authors, because I only have so much time for reading. So when I read I want to use that time wisely. I’m so glad I took the chance.
I loved how Dorothy portrayed the characters. There were times I honestly didn’t like Finella, but that was because I saw aspects of myself in her. But then I would find myself cheering for her to succeed, to change, and to see Shadrach as the man he was. Speaking of Shadrach, he was a great hero. Flawed, yes, but so sweet, thoughtful, and caring. And Molly…that ending had me near tears. I loved reading about her and her unique way of expressing love and the lessons she taught both Finella and Shadrach. Dorothy really brought to life a stellar cast of characters.
The setting was a character in and of itself. Dorothy, being a native of Australia, was able to bring to life the area in a way I’d never read before. I learned so much about this period of Australia’s history, as well as what that area would have looked like.
Out of everything in this book, the actual writing was what I enjoyed most. Dorothy has a way of painting words on her pages so that they create a breathtaking masterpiece. Each individual stroke is beautiful and only contributes to making the whole glow. Clearly, this debut author has a good handle on her craft, and I will definitely be watching for her future releases.
I was honored to be able to influence for Dorothy, and I know she’ll be an author I will hear much about in the future. If you love history, and want to take a unique, insider’s look at Australia, while being swept away by a heart wrenching romance, then please, read Carry Me Home. You’ll be glad you did.
I was given a review copy of Carry Me Home from the author in exchange for an honest review. I received no monetary compensation for my review. The opinions expressed are my own.
I loved how Dorothy portrayed the characters. There were times I honestly didn’t like Finella, but that was because I saw aspects of myself in her. But then I would find myself cheering for her to succeed, to change, and to see Shadrach as the man he was. Speaking of Shadrach, he was a great hero. Flawed, yes, but so sweet, thoughtful, and caring. And Molly…that ending had me near tears. I loved reading about her and her unique way of expressing love and the lessons she taught both Finella and Shadrach. Dorothy really brought to life a stellar cast of characters.
The setting was a character in and of itself. Dorothy, being a native of Australia, was able to bring to life the area in a way I’d never read before. I learned so much about this period of Australia’s history, as well as what that area would have looked like.
Out of everything in this book, the actual writing was what I enjoyed most. Dorothy has a way of painting words on her pages so that they create a breathtaking masterpiece. Each individual stroke is beautiful and only contributes to making the whole glow. Clearly, this debut author has a good handle on her craft, and I will definitely be watching for her future releases.
I was honored to be able to influence for Dorothy, and I know she’ll be an author I will hear much about in the future. If you love history, and want to take a unique, insider’s look at Australia, while being swept away by a heart wrenching romance, then please, read Carry Me Home. You’ll be glad you did.
I was given a review copy of Carry Me Home from the author in exchange for an honest review. I received no monetary compensation for my review. The opinions expressed are my own.
January 25, 2016
Wearing a heavy shroud of grief after burying her father at sea, Finella Mayfield survives the interminable voyage from England to Australia, arriving with sincere expectations; marry the man whom her father chose and assume the humble role of a pastor's wife. To her complete horror, an area farmer meets her upon arrival and adamantly insists that she accompany him to the bedside of her dying fiance. Unbeknown to Finella, this fiance has orchestrated a promise out of Shadrach Jones, to care for her upon his death, as if she were his own.
Shadrach Jones, upon the advice of his deceased friend's housekeeper, offers Miss Mayfield temporary employment, consisting of room and board, in exchange for keeping his younger sister out of danger on his property and teaching her basic homemaking skills. Molly Jones has a simple mind and often wanders, interrupting Shadrach's grueling farm work to ensure her safekeeping. Finella agrees, stuffing her grief into a distant corner and trying not to show her repulsion upon viewing the small hovel that the Jones siblings call home. As she and Shadrach become better acquainted, it's obvious that both of them have injured memories and furiously battle unseen demons, intent upon disrupting a future that could only be theirs.
"Carry Me Home" is exquisite, bulging with raw emotion, embedded within characters who practically beg for their story to be told. Inspiration, disappointment, courage and fear all vie for attention, while bits and pieces of a brilliant story line ultimately fall into place. Dorothy Adamek has penned an astonishing debut.
Shadrach Jones, upon the advice of his deceased friend's housekeeper, offers Miss Mayfield temporary employment, consisting of room and board, in exchange for keeping his younger sister out of danger on his property and teaching her basic homemaking skills. Molly Jones has a simple mind and often wanders, interrupting Shadrach's grueling farm work to ensure her safekeeping. Finella agrees, stuffing her grief into a distant corner and trying not to show her repulsion upon viewing the small hovel that the Jones siblings call home. As she and Shadrach become better acquainted, it's obvious that both of them have injured memories and furiously battle unseen demons, intent upon disrupting a future that could only be theirs.
"Carry Me Home" is exquisite, bulging with raw emotion, embedded within characters who practically beg for their story to be told. Inspiration, disappointment, courage and fear all vie for attention, while bits and pieces of a brilliant story line ultimately fall into place. Dorothy Adamek has penned an astonishing debut.
December 5, 2015
Dorothy Adamek's stunning debut novel, 'Carry Me Home' is a beautiful, lyrical read that will carry you on a journey far from home and back again.
Finella and Shadrach's story is superbly written with deep emotion. They both suffer great loss, learn how to forgive the deepest hurts and discover love that covers a multitude of sins. The book is set in gorgeous Philip Island. I love that it is so quintessentially Australian from the tea tree bush and gum trees to the language and culture of migrants searching for a new beginning.
It's 1875 and Finella Mayfield leaves behind her home in England and travels across the oceans to Australia, a wild place so completely opposite to the home she loves. She is on a quest to fulfill her parents dreams for her to become a pastors wife and to find the name of the man who caused her mother's death.
Shadrach Jones wants only to build his farm and take care of his sister. When his best friend is bitten by a poisonous snake Shadrach promises to take care of a woman who is coming halfway across the world to marry his friend who is on his death bed.
Finella is not about to let her future be dictated by a man she doesn't know and Shadrach will not let a woman tell him how live his life and take care of his sister.
Can Finella and Shadrach leave the past behind them or will it continue to haunt their present and ruin their future?
Finella and Shadrach's story is superbly written with deep emotion. They both suffer great loss, learn how to forgive the deepest hurts and discover love that covers a multitude of sins. The book is set in gorgeous Philip Island. I love that it is so quintessentially Australian from the tea tree bush and gum trees to the language and culture of migrants searching for a new beginning.
It's 1875 and Finella Mayfield leaves behind her home in England and travels across the oceans to Australia, a wild place so completely opposite to the home she loves. She is on a quest to fulfill her parents dreams for her to become a pastors wife and to find the name of the man who caused her mother's death.
Shadrach Jones wants only to build his farm and take care of his sister. When his best friend is bitten by a poisonous snake Shadrach promises to take care of a woman who is coming halfway across the world to marry his friend who is on his death bed.
Finella is not about to let her future be dictated by a man she doesn't know and Shadrach will not let a woman tell him how live his life and take care of his sister.
Can Finella and Shadrach leave the past behind them or will it continue to haunt their present and ruin their future?
December 4, 2015
Carry Me Home ( Blue Wren Shallows -Book #1 )
By: Dorothy Adamek
Dorothy Adamek’s debute novel “Carry Me Home” is the first book in Blue Wren Shallows Series. I really enjoyed Adamek’s story and the characters. “Carry Me Home” touched my heart . It is a very emotional story that touched me deeply. I found myself laughing at times, and then another time saying NO, NO, and tears rolling so much I could not see to read. This story is of Love, forgiveness, and healing. Finella , a young woman gone to Australia in 1875 for an arranged marriage. She was to become a preacher’s wife. Shadrack, a young farmer who is trying to fulfill a promise he made to George, the preacher. I found that I could nor read fast enough to see what was going to happen on the next page. This is a heartbreaking page turner that will leave you breathless. Adamek I loved it . Cant wait for the next one in this series.
I was given a copy of this book by the author for my honest review.
By: Dorothy Adamek
Dorothy Adamek’s debute novel “Carry Me Home” is the first book in Blue Wren Shallows Series. I really enjoyed Adamek’s story and the characters. “Carry Me Home” touched my heart . It is a very emotional story that touched me deeply. I found myself laughing at times, and then another time saying NO, NO, and tears rolling so much I could not see to read. This story is of Love, forgiveness, and healing. Finella , a young woman gone to Australia in 1875 for an arranged marriage. She was to become a preacher’s wife. Shadrack, a young farmer who is trying to fulfill a promise he made to George, the preacher. I found that I could nor read fast enough to see what was going to happen on the next page. This is a heartbreaking page turner that will leave you breathless. Adamek I loved it . Cant wait for the next one in this series.
I was given a copy of this book by the author for my honest review.
December 4, 2015
Such an emotional story, but one worth every tear and laugh throughout. This debut novel from Adamek introduces us to some amazing characters that you will instantly fall in love with. Their journey through death, life, love, and hate will draw you in and have you turning the pages with anticipation of what will happen with each character. I found myself laughing at some of the antics, while crying with these same characters as they experienced such pain in their lives. In the end I found myself smiling with such a perfect ending. This is the first in a new series, and I can't wait to see what the next two books will bring.
*I received a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review*
*I received a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review*
December 12, 2015
I knew I'd love this book before I read it, and I wasn't disappointed. Having read Dorothy's blog for years, I've always loved her voice and her heart and her love of all things Olde World, so I knew I was onto a winner before I picked it up.
I laughed, I cried, I had great trouble putting it down. Only problem is, I now have to wait for the next one. Sigh!
Congrats Dorothy on an outstanding debut novel.
I laughed, I cried, I had great trouble putting it down. Only problem is, I now have to wait for the next one. Sigh!
Congrats Dorothy on an outstanding debut novel.
January 27, 2016
I was drawn into the characters and the historical setting from the first pages. The author's beautiful writing style flowed effortlessly as the story unfolds. I can't wait to read the next book in the Blue Wren Shallows series, Carry Me Away.
March 12, 2016
A delightful read. Beautiful characters, plot twist, heart break and love. What a gorgeous slice of Australian history this novel reveals. An all-round eager and joyful read. Very happy to know it's just the first of three from this talented writer.
January 23, 2016
Loved this book. Setting captured beautifully, characters fabulous and the historical detail perfect. I couldn't put the book down. Can't wait for the next in the series.
June 27, 2018
My words will not do justice to this beautiful story of two people who are destined to love each other but have quite an uphill battle to get there. Author Adamek takes us to the Australian prairie as we travel with Finella so that she may meet and marry her fiancé. Unbeknownst to her, she is in for much more tragedy than she would have thought possible.
Shadrach Jones has come to fulfill his promise to his dying friend and to take care of Finella by eventually marrying her. His wooing is a bit uncouth, but he is a man. He and Finella do not really see eye to eye, but both care very much for his 14 year old special needs sister, Molly. I would say that Molly is the glue that holds them together at first.
Shadrach is romantic in his own special way and when he wants to show Finella that he wants her to stay, he does so in a spectacular way. This was a very romantic story about a man and woman’s struggle to find themselves and each other in a country where convicts were once sent and to get past ill-conceived notions and prejudices.
I purchased this book when it first came out and finally sat down to read it. I cannot believe I let it sit on my shelf for that long. This is the first in a planned series and I look forward to and hope to get more of Shadrach and Finella’s story.
https://pausefortales.blogspot.com/20...
Shadrach Jones has come to fulfill his promise to his dying friend and to take care of Finella by eventually marrying her. His wooing is a bit uncouth, but he is a man. He and Finella do not really see eye to eye, but both care very much for his 14 year old special needs sister, Molly. I would say that Molly is the glue that holds them together at first.
Shadrach is romantic in his own special way and when he wants to show Finella that he wants her to stay, he does so in a spectacular way. This was a very romantic story about a man and woman’s struggle to find themselves and each other in a country where convicts were once sent and to get past ill-conceived notions and prejudices.
I purchased this book when it first came out and finally sat down to read it. I cannot believe I let it sit on my shelf for that long. This is the first in a planned series and I look forward to and hope to get more of Shadrach and Finella’s story.
https://pausefortales.blogspot.com/20...
November 27, 2019
Full review on FaithfullyBookish.com
Carry Me Home effectively turns the reader's attention to the Lord of all circumstances, the Hope of the helpless, and the Great Healer with an engaging plot and multi-dimensional characters.
One heartbreak after another left my heart entwined with Finella's story and invested in the outcome from the earliest pages of the book. There's no denying his physical prowess and the abundance of Shadrach's compassion and loyalty fuels his relentless work ethic.
I highly recommend this story. Its themes of grief, forgiveness, and faith shine thanks to the author's skillful care in creating a vivid setting, authentic characters, and unpredictable plot.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher and was under no obligation to post a review. The opinions expressed are my own.
Carry Me Home effectively turns the reader's attention to the Lord of all circumstances, the Hope of the helpless, and the Great Healer with an engaging plot and multi-dimensional characters.
One heartbreak after another left my heart entwined with Finella's story and invested in the outcome from the earliest pages of the book. There's no denying his physical prowess and the abundance of Shadrach's compassion and loyalty fuels his relentless work ethic.
I highly recommend this story. Its themes of grief, forgiveness, and faith shine thanks to the author's skillful care in creating a vivid setting, authentic characters, and unpredictable plot.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher and was under no obligation to post a review. The opinions expressed are my own.
August 1, 2019
I read this on #KindleUnlimited
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