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Worth Fighting For
From Darwin to Pearl Harbour, Sydney to Papua New Guinea, a compelling story of courage, honour and a great love set against the epic backdrop of the Second World War
Eighteen-year-old Junie Wallace is a smart girl and, with her two brothers away at war and her third brother just killed in action, she knows there is only one way to save the family farm for her grieving parents. Unfortunately, that solution involves marrying the unscrupulous Ernest, and breaking the heart of the young drover she loves, Michael.
But the war is looming ever closer, and when Pearl Harbour brings the threat of Japanese aggression to Australian shores, the fates of many becomes inextricably interwoven.
From the explosive battles of the Pacific campaign to the desperate fighting in the Papuan New Guinea rainforest; the dancehall gaiety of Sydney’s Trocadero to the terror of the Darwin bombings, this epic family saga brings home the importance of mateship and of fighting for what you believe in, even when impossible odds seem stacked against you, even when all seems lost…
Worth Fighting For is a resounding testament to the enduring force of love: a reminder of what can be achieved if you draw on your reserves of courage and listen to the truth in your heart.
427 pages, Paperback
First published September 19, 2016
15 people are currently reading
226 people want to read
About the author
Mary-Anne O'Connor
13 books174 followersMary-Anne O'Connor nee Best grew up in Wahroonga in the Bushland Shire of Hornsby-Kuringai, northern Sydney. The youngest of six children, her childhood was spent exploring the local bush and playing music with her siblings and close neighbours. An avid reader, she devoured her mother Dorn's extensive library and was often found trying to finish a chapter by torchlight late at night. She also began to fill every blank piece of paper in the house with stories and drawings of her own and dreamt of becoming a writer one day.
When she was twelve her father Kevin Best left his established career in the stock-market to become one of Australia's best-loved artists. The perseverance and ultimate triumph she witnessed during those years left her inspired to follow in his footsteps and pursue her own creative aspirations. A multi-faceted career path followed in marketing and teaching, along with the completion of education/arts degree with specialities in literature, music and environment. During this time she also co-wrote two books with her father, A Brush with Light and Secrets of the Brush. Work then began on her first major novel, Gallipoli Street. This work gained critical acclaim and finished at #3 for debut novels in Australia in 2015.
Since then she written four more best-selling novels: Worth Fighting For, War Flower, In A Great Southern Land and Where Fortune Lies. Her sixth novel, Sisters of Freedom, is due out in March, 2021.
Mary-Anne has drawn on her love of the Australian bush, her fascination with her own family history and her deep, abiding respect for the men and women who carried our nation through turbulent, formative times to produce these novels.
They were written in her office at home beneath a long window that overlooks her beloved gum trees. She still lives in the Bushland Shire with her husband Anthony, their two sons, Jimmy and Jack and their very spoilt, gorgeous dog, Saxon.
When she was twelve her father Kevin Best left his established career in the stock-market to become one of Australia's best-loved artists. The perseverance and ultimate triumph she witnessed during those years left her inspired to follow in his footsteps and pursue her own creative aspirations. A multi-faceted career path followed in marketing and teaching, along with the completion of education/arts degree with specialities in literature, music and environment. During this time she also co-wrote two books with her father, A Brush with Light and Secrets of the Brush. Work then began on her first major novel, Gallipoli Street. This work gained critical acclaim and finished at #3 for debut novels in Australia in 2015.
Since then she written four more best-selling novels: Worth Fighting For, War Flower, In A Great Southern Land and Where Fortune Lies. Her sixth novel, Sisters of Freedom, is due out in March, 2021.
Mary-Anne has drawn on her love of the Australian bush, her fascination with her own family history and her deep, abiding respect for the men and women who carried our nation through turbulent, formative times to produce these novels.
They were written in her office at home beneath a long window that overlooks her beloved gum trees. She still lives in the Bushland Shire with her husband Anthony, their two sons, Jimmy and Jack and their very spoilt, gorgeous dog, Saxon.
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October 27, 2016
Junie Wallace knew what she had to do – that didn’t mean she liked it. With the death of Frankie on the war front, and her two other brothers still fighting, Junie’s parents were shattered. Her grief-stricken father was unable to keep the family farm running, so Ernest Farthington took over the reins. The trouble was Ernest didn’t do it as a kindness – his payment would be marriage to Junie. And Junie loathed Ernest with a passion…
Michael Riley was the son of their nearby neighbours and Junie knew he was the one she wanted to be with. Michael felt the same about Junie – but their young love was destined to fail with Ernest on the horizon. So when Michael enlisted by falsifying his age, Junie wasn’t the only one to be upset. Michael’s family had already lost one son and brother to the war – his mother, father and two sisters were distraught by the news.
As war worked its way through Pearl Harbour, Darwin and Papua New Guinea, the lives of the young people still at home continued. Desperate to do the best with the hand she’d been dealt, Junie became friendly with Eliza. Gradually Junie’s life as a country girl from Braidwood changed as she settled in with a different class of people in Sydney. She followed the rules and did as Ernest told her to, but her friendship with Eliza sustained her.
Would Junie ever feel happiness again? The war continued to be a shadow over everyone’s lives –what would be the outcome of those terrible, heartbreaking years?
Worth Fighting For by Aussie author Mary-Anne O’Connor is a beautiful, heartfelt story of endurance, love and finding that what you believe in is worth fighting for. Filled with courage in all forms, loyalty and determination, I thoroughly enjoyed this historical fiction novel set to the horrors of the Second World War. Highly recommended.
With thanks to Harlequin and Goodreads First Reads giveaway for this copy to read in exchange for my honest review.
Michael Riley was the son of their nearby neighbours and Junie knew he was the one she wanted to be with. Michael felt the same about Junie – but their young love was destined to fail with Ernest on the horizon. So when Michael enlisted by falsifying his age, Junie wasn’t the only one to be upset. Michael’s family had already lost one son and brother to the war – his mother, father and two sisters were distraught by the news.
As war worked its way through Pearl Harbour, Darwin and Papua New Guinea, the lives of the young people still at home continued. Desperate to do the best with the hand she’d been dealt, Junie became friendly with Eliza. Gradually Junie’s life as a country girl from Braidwood changed as she settled in with a different class of people in Sydney. She followed the rules and did as Ernest told her to, but her friendship with Eliza sustained her.
Would Junie ever feel happiness again? The war continued to be a shadow over everyone’s lives –what would be the outcome of those terrible, heartbreaking years?
Worth Fighting For by Aussie author Mary-Anne O’Connor is a beautiful, heartfelt story of endurance, love and finding that what you believe in is worth fighting for. Filled with courage in all forms, loyalty and determination, I thoroughly enjoyed this historical fiction novel set to the horrors of the Second World War. Highly recommended.
With thanks to Harlequin and Goodreads First Reads giveaway for this copy to read in exchange for my honest review.
July 1, 2017
*https://mrsbbookreviews.wordpress.com
In 2015, I read Gallipoli Street, a wonderful Australian based historical fiction testament to the ANZACS and the First World War, written by debut author Mary-Anne O’Connor. O’Connor is back with a brand new and ambitious novel, focussed on the Second World War experience, titled Worth Fighting For. This book is a heartfelt tribute to the war experience, both on the front and the sacrifices made on home soil, featuring an enigmatic leading lady.
Junie Wallace lives with her family in the country location of Braidwood, New South Wales. Together they manage the family farm, but when the war breaks out the Wallace’s farm is under threat of staying afloat. Despite being in love with gentle young farmer Michael Riley, Junie puts her feelings aside for the sake of her family. Junie goes into a loveless marriage with the wealthy Ernest Farthington , alll to save her family’s livelihood. While circumstance separates Junie and Michael, so does the war raging across the globe. Worth Fighting For covers the war in Papua New Guinea, the threat to Australia’s shores and even brings in the bombing of Pearl Harbour. It is an all encompassing story of the impact of war.
Worth Fighting For is a novel that has a very fitting title. At its core, this novel is about fighting for a cause, as well as the determination, courage and loyalty shown by those in the face of the war. Endurance is a key theme which I took away from this novel and the compulsion to never give up on what matters.
Junie is a character who shows the reader what it is like to be a woman on the home front in country Australia during the Second World War. Junie is a woman who makes clear sacrifices to protect her family. It was emotional to read about the loss of the Wallace clan and the countless other families that suffered loss in the small country town of Braidwood. I did feel a sense of sentimentality towards Junie, especially when she made the heartbreaking decision to cut ties with Michael and join in a loveless union with Ernest. Junie’s love interest Michael allows us to understand more about the Australian soldier’s experience in the Pacific. Michael’s perspective is also tied with American soldier Marlon Stone’s experiences in Pearl Harbour. The Pearl Harbour sequences were highly charged and had dramatic impact on this reader. By contrast, the unlikeable character of the story, Ernest, is detestable from the very opening scenes of this novel. I was equally suspicious of the character of Junie’s friend Eliza and her motivations. It turns out that I was correct in my assumptions of this character. Eliza is just one of a few obstacles in the pathway to Junie’s final shot at happiness. At the end of the day, it is Junie who is the shining star of this novel. Junie’s mental anguish and what she experiences during the events of the novel, demonstrates the lengths one goes to for love, loyalty and sacrifice in this fascinating era.
Worth Fighting For features an expansive setting. O’Connor takes us on a journey to country Australia, to cities such as Sydney and Darwin, along with the battlefields of the Pacific, the harshness of Papua New Guinea and all the way to Pearl Harbour in her novel. As a result, Worth Fighting For is a book that is rich in historical detail. The war experience in particular comes alive for the reader, as we become a part of the desperate fight for survival with the characters of the novel.
Worth Fighting For is a well informed historical piece of fiction. After I had finished this novel, I discovered that it was inspired by the author’s family background. This gave the book more purpose and meaning, as I could see how the characters of this novel were clearly woven from a rich family history. Worth Fighting For is a solid follow on from Gallipoli Street author Mary-Anne O’Connor and another memorable Australian war experience novel.
In 2015, I read Gallipoli Street, a wonderful Australian based historical fiction testament to the ANZACS and the First World War, written by debut author Mary-Anne O’Connor. O’Connor is back with a brand new and ambitious novel, focussed on the Second World War experience, titled Worth Fighting For. This book is a heartfelt tribute to the war experience, both on the front and the sacrifices made on home soil, featuring an enigmatic leading lady.
Junie Wallace lives with her family in the country location of Braidwood, New South Wales. Together they manage the family farm, but when the war breaks out the Wallace’s farm is under threat of staying afloat. Despite being in love with gentle young farmer Michael Riley, Junie puts her feelings aside for the sake of her family. Junie goes into a loveless marriage with the wealthy Ernest Farthington , alll to save her family’s livelihood. While circumstance separates Junie and Michael, so does the war raging across the globe. Worth Fighting For covers the war in Papua New Guinea, the threat to Australia’s shores and even brings in the bombing of Pearl Harbour. It is an all encompassing story of the impact of war.
Worth Fighting For is a novel that has a very fitting title. At its core, this novel is about fighting for a cause, as well as the determination, courage and loyalty shown by those in the face of the war. Endurance is a key theme which I took away from this novel and the compulsion to never give up on what matters.
Junie is a character who shows the reader what it is like to be a woman on the home front in country Australia during the Second World War. Junie is a woman who makes clear sacrifices to protect her family. It was emotional to read about the loss of the Wallace clan and the countless other families that suffered loss in the small country town of Braidwood. I did feel a sense of sentimentality towards Junie, especially when she made the heartbreaking decision to cut ties with Michael and join in a loveless union with Ernest. Junie’s love interest Michael allows us to understand more about the Australian soldier’s experience in the Pacific. Michael’s perspective is also tied with American soldier Marlon Stone’s experiences in Pearl Harbour. The Pearl Harbour sequences were highly charged and had dramatic impact on this reader. By contrast, the unlikeable character of the story, Ernest, is detestable from the very opening scenes of this novel. I was equally suspicious of the character of Junie’s friend Eliza and her motivations. It turns out that I was correct in my assumptions of this character. Eliza is just one of a few obstacles in the pathway to Junie’s final shot at happiness. At the end of the day, it is Junie who is the shining star of this novel. Junie’s mental anguish and what she experiences during the events of the novel, demonstrates the lengths one goes to for love, loyalty and sacrifice in this fascinating era.
Worth Fighting For features an expansive setting. O’Connor takes us on a journey to country Australia, to cities such as Sydney and Darwin, along with the battlefields of the Pacific, the harshness of Papua New Guinea and all the way to Pearl Harbour in her novel. As a result, Worth Fighting For is a book that is rich in historical detail. The war experience in particular comes alive for the reader, as we become a part of the desperate fight for survival with the characters of the novel.
Worth Fighting For is a well informed historical piece of fiction. After I had finished this novel, I discovered that it was inspired by the author’s family background. This gave the book more purpose and meaning, as I could see how the characters of this novel were clearly woven from a rich family history. Worth Fighting For is a solid follow on from Gallipoli Street author Mary-Anne O’Connor and another memorable Australian war experience novel.
August 5, 2016
Beautiful story. So grateful to have read it ahead of publication so I can tell other people they are in for a treat and a half! Just didn't want it to end. Congratulations Mary-Anne.
May 12, 2018
Junie's parents are broken. The war has taken one of their sons from them and the other two are fighting. They've neglected their farm and are now in debt. They will lose everything if Junie doesn't marry Ernest. He blackmails her into a union, while Junie's heart belongs to Michael. They only spend a few magical hours together as lovers, but he has a duty to his country and has to leave. Ernest will stay home to advance his career in politics instead. Junie has no choice, the wedding must take place.
Marlon is an American soldier. He's fighting together with the Australians against the Japanese. When he meets Junie he's immediately intrigued, but he can see she's a troubled woman. He rescues her from a terrible fate. They only share a brief moment, but he never forgets the strong and untamed Junie. When their paths cross again and he learns the truth about her circumstances he's even more impressed. While the war keeps raging Junie loves, loses and learns to accept her fate. Is that all there is in her life?
Worth Fighting For is a beautiful story. I was immediately impressed by the fierce Junie. She's brave, capable and a little wild. It's heartbreaking she has to marry a man who doesn't suit her. Junie loathes Ernest, but she says yes to this awful man to save her family. She breaks Michael's heart in the process, but sees no other way. She loves deeply and can't forget about the man she's given her heart to. Still, she sacrifices her own happiness for her parents and brothers, which is brave, heartbreaking and incredible. Finding out if she'd eventually be able to move on to something better kept me on the edge of my seat.
Mary-Anne O'Connor alternates between Junie and Marlon. Through Marlon the war comes incredibly close. He's a survivor, someone with a good heart who looks after people. The war nearly breaks him, but he's a strong man and he eventually finds his way back out of the blackness. I was incredibly curious to find out what would happen to him after all the fighting stopped and I loved his part of the story just as much as Junie's.
Mary-Anne O'Connor has a gripping descriptive writing style. I was captivated by Worth Fighting For straight away. I loved that this is a story about the way life keeps surprising. I really enjoyed the many unexpected twists and turns and was spellbound by the gorgeous ending. The story is thought-provoking and it's filled with what-ifs that are very fitting for the time frame it's set in. I fell in love with this book from the start and couldn't put it down. I highly recommend Worth Fighting For, it's an amazing story.
August 17, 2016
I chose to give this book a read because I'm rather partial to a love story, especially one set during the second world war which interests me. It started out in Braidwood which is an old haunt of mine and a lovely country town. I particularly enjoyed these scenes and felt the author captured the feel of the place beautifully: '...that golden orb sank gloriously now, igniting the fields into a moving sea of light, shimmer and shadow, rippling and bowing to the breeze that cooled the day into night.' O'Connor excels in creating beautiful imagery, something I discovered when reading her first novel Gallipoli Street, and for lovers of good writing this book won't disappoint.
The story follows the events of the Pacific War in chronological fashion and I felt each location was well captured, mostly due to that lovely imagery as mentioned above. Our main heroine is Junie, a smart, determined girl who is trapped into a loveless marriage to save the family farm. She is a fascinating character and I felt her frustration and passions leap off the page, crying when she cried, laughing when she laughed. Michael, the man she loves, broke my heart and I don't think I'm giving too much away when I say get the tissues ready. Marlon, the American character, is a kind, understanding soul (I think I may have a crush on him!) and brings a different perspective to this Australian story.
I was left feeling very moved by this novel and predict it will do very well sales wise, but more importantly it brings this era to life in a fresh, unique way, keeping this generation 'young' for future generations to relate to. For this reason I hope it stays in libraries for a very long time to come. They deserve to be remembered so clearly.
The story follows the events of the Pacific War in chronological fashion and I felt each location was well captured, mostly due to that lovely imagery as mentioned above. Our main heroine is Junie, a smart, determined girl who is trapped into a loveless marriage to save the family farm. She is a fascinating character and I felt her frustration and passions leap off the page, crying when she cried, laughing when she laughed. Michael, the man she loves, broke my heart and I don't think I'm giving too much away when I say get the tissues ready. Marlon, the American character, is a kind, understanding soul (I think I may have a crush on him!) and brings a different perspective to this Australian story.
I was left feeling very moved by this novel and predict it will do very well sales wise, but more importantly it brings this era to life in a fresh, unique way, keeping this generation 'young' for future generations to relate to. For this reason I hope it stays in libraries for a very long time to come. They deserve to be remembered so clearly.
November 20, 2016
I received Worth Fighting For from Beauty and Lace Book Club to do an honest Review of.
Worth Fighting For by Mary-Anne O’Connor follows the story of 18 year old Junie Wallace. a country girl whose family property falls on hard times and is rescued by wealthy neighbour Ernest Farthington, but at a huge price. Junie must marry the detestable Ernest.
The ripple effect of this last for many years.
O’Connor describes the hardship that World War 11 has on Australia, the lengths young men will go too to enlist underage to go off to fight for their country.
We hear about the bombing of Pearl Harbor, Darwin and Sydney and the horrific battles in The Pacific Theatre, Japanese occupation of Singapore and New Guinea.
Throughout this we learn of the Aussie mateship, courage, loyalty, love and sacrifice.
Well written and very enjoyable with historical facts throughout the book that will appeal to many. I really enjoyed reading this book and will read O’Connor’s earlier book Gallipoli Street and keep an eye out for future works.
The front cover of the book is a stunning photo of a young couple in 1940’s dress embracing with a backdrop of the ocean, Navy Warships and War Planes flying overhead
Worth Fighting For by Mary-Anne O’Connor follows the story of 18 year old Junie Wallace. a country girl whose family property falls on hard times and is rescued by wealthy neighbour Ernest Farthington, but at a huge price. Junie must marry the detestable Ernest.
The ripple effect of this last for many years.
O’Connor describes the hardship that World War 11 has on Australia, the lengths young men will go too to enlist underage to go off to fight for their country.
We hear about the bombing of Pearl Harbor, Darwin and Sydney and the horrific battles in The Pacific Theatre, Japanese occupation of Singapore and New Guinea.
Throughout this we learn of the Aussie mateship, courage, loyalty, love and sacrifice.
Well written and very enjoyable with historical facts throughout the book that will appeal to many. I really enjoyed reading this book and will read O’Connor’s earlier book Gallipoli Street and keep an eye out for future works.
The front cover of the book is a stunning photo of a young couple in 1940’s dress embracing with a backdrop of the ocean, Navy Warships and War Planes flying overhead
August 12, 2016
I absolutely LOVED Mary-Anne O'Connor's first novel Gallipoli Street so I was expecting big things...and I wasn't disappointed. In fact, I think I love this one even more! It is a very entertaining, enthralling and also educational historical novel. My parents were both involved in the second world war so I have grown up hearing all the stories of their generation. Such a fascinating time in our history...and the novel describes the scenes, characters and feelings so beautifully you can imagine you were there too.
I loaned the book to my 91 year old mother who is an avid reader and she adored it as well. She said it was 100% accurate on the details of the time and she would know - her mind is sharp as a tack and she is often critical of novelists who write about this period. She is full of praise for this one.
I loaned the book to my 91 year old mother who is an avid reader and she adored it as well. She said it was 100% accurate on the details of the time and she would know - her mind is sharp as a tack and she is often critical of novelists who write about this period. She is full of praise for this one.
June 18, 2020
* Ernest is horrible. I'm not sure anyone would want to marry him.
* It's a shame Junie can't marry Michael instead.
* I can't believe she's pregnant by Michael when she's married to Ernest!
* Can't believe she didn't tell Michael. She really should have old him about the baby :(
* It's a shame Junie can't marry Michael instead.
* I can't believe she's pregnant by Michael when she's married to Ernest!
* Can't believe she didn't tell Michael. She really should have old him about the baby :(
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 30, 2017
Ordinarily historical fiction is my favourite genre, however, this novel was a good deal heavier on the romance than the blurb suggested. I should have realised, especially given the image on the book's cover. Though quite readable, it just wasn't as dramatic and "meaty" as I'd hoped it would be.
October 17, 2016
The blurb sounded so good but unfortunately the book didn't live up those promises!
I'm not familiar with WW2 era Australia at all so I found the history aspect to be really interesting, and I would have loved even more. The good historical details were the bright spots of the book but they just weren't enough to rescue it overall.
Junie was a difficult character in a big mess, she really didn't help herself at all, especially with all the lying; I couldn't feel sorry for her. Michael was probably the person I felt the greatest connection with and I really disliked the way he was dealt with, especially at the end.
I certainly expected the so-called love story to develop very differently to how it actually unfolded - love triangles I can handle but I think this was a love pentagon at the very least. Not to mention that the 'romance' was really just one-night stands, cheating and adultery.
Worth Fighting For had the potential to be a great read but it definitely missed the mark for me.
* I received a free e-copy from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
I'm not familiar with WW2 era Australia at all so I found the history aspect to be really interesting, and I would have loved even more. The good historical details were the bright spots of the book but they just weren't enough to rescue it overall.
Junie was a difficult character in a big mess, she really didn't help herself at all, especially with all the lying; I couldn't feel sorry for her. Michael was probably the person I felt the greatest connection with and I really disliked the way he was dealt with, especially at the end.
I certainly expected the so-called love story to develop very differently to how it actually unfolded - love triangles I can handle but I think this was a love pentagon at the very least. Not to mention that the 'romance' was really just one-night stands, cheating and adultery.
Worth Fighting For had the potential to be a great read but it definitely missed the mark for me.
* I received a free e-copy from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
August 23, 2016
I was really looking forward to reading this book. The description sounded good and I love WWII novels, but by the time I finally finished it I was actually quite disappointed.
Junie was an aggravating character. I understood why she felt she had to do what she did, in the beginning, but when everyone was telling her not to and she lied to go through with it, I just didn't feel bad for her at all.
The ending was slightly predictable, though I didn't see it going exactly as it did (thought it was going to be a little different) so that was kind of nice. However, I didn't like the ending.
All in all, not a book I'd recommend.
I received a complimentary copy of this book to review. I was asked to give my honest opinion of the book - which I have done.
Junie was an aggravating character. I understood why she felt she had to do what she did, in the beginning, but when everyone was telling her not to and she lied to go through with it, I just didn't feel bad for her at all.
The ending was slightly predictable, though I didn't see it going exactly as it did (thought it was going to be a little different) so that was kind of nice. However, I didn't like the ending.
All in all, not a book I'd recommend.
I received a complimentary copy of this book to review. I was asked to give my honest opinion of the book - which I have done.
August 5, 2016
I have been fortunate enough to read an advance copy of this novel and all I can say is brace yourselves lovers of great fiction: you are in for a fantastic ride! Emotional, gripping, moving, in parts devastating and at other times laugh-out-loud funny too. I loved her first novel Gallipoli Street so much I didn't know how she'd follow it up but she has- in stunning style. Destined to be one of the biggest books of the year. Five stars!
August 31, 2016
Just loved this book! It had everything in a book that I like...great characters, bit of humour, Australian history, gripping storyline and romance. It also had quite a twist which I thought was very clever and intriguing...and kept me up late at night reading like crazy! I found the historical setting and storyline amazing - things I didn't know about wartime in Australia. Well done Mary-Anne O'Connor another great read from you!
November 20, 2019
when I dont enjoy a book it takes sooo long to read, why do I stick it out....in the hopes it gets better.
I loved gallipoli street so this book was disappointing.
I loved gallipoli street so this book was disappointing.
January 28, 2020
10/ 10 would recommend!
This book totally took me by surprise! I picked it up randomly for a road trip over Christmas and proceeded to became completely absorbed in the storyline!
This book offers so much insight to life in Australia during WW2 or “the golden age”
With depth into the reality of war and conscription, and how family’s had to cope with the aftermath of losing children and husbands.
Mary Anne O’Connor does not hold back! With issues like women’s rights, racism, marital affairs and so much more! This book caught me off guard a few times with the reality of how life was back then!
Honestly this book should have a better rating on Goodreads and it does!
It’s just SO GOOD! 🙌🏼
This book totally took me by surprise! I picked it up randomly for a road trip over Christmas and proceeded to became completely absorbed in the storyline!
This book offers so much insight to life in Australia during WW2 or “the golden age”
With depth into the reality of war and conscription, and how family’s had to cope with the aftermath of losing children and husbands.
Mary Anne O’Connor does not hold back! With issues like women’s rights, racism, marital affairs and so much more! This book caught me off guard a few times with the reality of how life was back then!
Honestly this book should have a better rating on Goodreads and it does!
It’s just SO GOOD! 🙌🏼
July 1, 2017
I really enjoy "Gallipoli Street" so I read this one. I found this one base only on World War 2 and between main characters Junie, Michael and Marlon. It's about the struggles and details of the war and Junie battle at home with all secrets and just getting through. I thought this was more base on the war and only touch now and then on the home life, I found myself referring back to previous chapters to find out who's who. It reads more like a war novel, more then a romantic war novel like her previous book.
March 27, 2020
A nice gentle read from an unknown author to me. The story line could have been padded out into an epic tome or series, but compressed as it is, was very readable and I was keen to uncover the ending which wasn't really predictable. If you have a fascination for Shangri La you'll also enjoy some of the eloquent descriptive prose.
March 27, 2021
Beatifull story of love and courage.
It's the sort of story you would read on a wet weekend. Enough to keep you wondering what comes next. The characters are well described and entertaining and the scenery is very interesting. Excellent and uplifting message.
It's the sort of story you would read on a wet weekend. Enough to keep you wondering what comes next. The characters are well described and entertaining and the scenery is very interesting. Excellent and uplifting message.
December 24, 2021
I did not expect to become so attached to Junie. I'm living her highs. I'm feeling her lows. And my left elbow hurts since I started reading this, probably because of that Ernest (wow what a name for a not so earnest guy) 😅
January 25, 2022
Stunning historical drama set in a range of cleverly depicted environments.
Young Junie Wallace is forced into a marriage of convenience that hides her family’s debt to the socially elite Farthington’s.
Strong characters, emotional storytelling.
Young Junie Wallace is forced into a marriage of convenience that hides her family’s debt to the socially elite Farthington’s.
Strong characters, emotional storytelling.
November 20, 2019
Just ok for me. Not much excitement here.
April 12, 2022
Truth be told, I struggled to finish reading it.
March 4, 2024
Mary-Anne O'Connor has done it again! A very enjoyable WW2 epic with a great cast of characters, just minus the ending I expected.
October 17, 2024
Another great read from Mary-Anne O'Connor. I just loved this story as I have with all the books I have read from this Author.
March 22, 2018
This book left me heartbroken! Mary-Anne has thoroughly researched the history for this book and what makes it even more special is her own family history which she incorporated into the story.
I adore these books, makes me feel how truly lucky we are today for many reasons.
I adore these books, makes me feel how truly lucky we are today for many reasons.
June 6, 2025
A very interesting story. I admit it was difficult to get through most of this book. In the beginning, the multiple POV was interesting as we didn't see another chapter or POV from this person later in the book, which I thought felt redundant. I loved the historical element, and I loved that the author used real-life inspiration from family and friends to create this story. I seem to be in the minority, but I enjoyed the ending of this book and really enjoyed the last 50ish pages. However, this book was a struggle for the majority.
2 🌶️[ Closed door romance]
2 🌶️[ Closed door romance]
February 12, 2020
From Darwin to Pearl Harbour, Sydney to Papua New Guinea, a compelling story of courage, honour and a great love set against the epic backdrop of the Second World War. In Braidwood 1941, 18 year old Junie Wallace is a smart, bookish young woman and, with her two brothers away at war and her third brother Frankie just killed in action, she knows that there is only one way to save her grieving family's failing farm. Unfortunately, that solution is marrying the unscrupulous, arrogant and rich Ernest Farthington, and breaking the heart of Michael Riley, the neighbourly young farmer and only man she truly loves. Junie feels she has no choice but to enter into a loveless marriage to save her family's financial future, but Junie is a strong woman who feels deeply, as she is a fighter for her loved ones and attempts to build a meaningful life for herself, but true happiness seems to elude her, as she finds herself lost. But war is never far away, and when Pearl Harbour brings the threat of Japanese aggression to Australian shores, the fates of many becomes inextricably interwoven, such as with American soldier, Marlon Stone. From the explosive battles of the Pacific campaign to the desperate fighting in the Papuan New Guinea rainforest; the dancehall gaiety of Sydney's famous Trocadero to the terror of the Darwin bombings, this epic family saga brings home the importance of mateship and of fighting for what you believe in, even when impossible odds seem stacked against you, even when all seems lost...This novel is a resounding testament to the enduring force of love: a reminder of what can be achieved if you draw on the reserves of courage and listen to the truth in your heart. The important lessons I learnt from this fantastic novel are that you can't always choose what you do and your circumstances, but if you take a really good look at things, you'll often find that there's more choice in life than you think, and that everyday joy lies in being realistic. True happiness is achievable, you don't have to stay lost, you just have to know what you want...and want what you can actually have.
October 21, 2016
(I received a free copy of this book from Net Galley in exchange for an honest review.)
Eighteen-year-old Junie Wallace is a smart girl and, with her two brothers away at war and her third brother just killed in action, she knows there is only one way to save the family farm for her grieving parents. Unfortunately, that solution involves marrying the unscrupulous Ernest, and breaking the heart of the young drover she loves, Michael.
But the war is looming ever closer, and when Pearl Harbour brings the threat of Japanese aggression to Australian shores, the fates of many becomes inextricably interwoven.
From the explosive battles of the Pacific campaign to the desperate fighting in the Papuan New Guinea rainforest; the dance-hall gaiety of Sydney’s Trocadero to the terror of the Darwin bombings, this epic family saga brings home the importance of mateship and of fighting for what you believe in, even when impossible odds seem stacked against you, even when all seems lost…
Set against the backdrop of WW2, this Australian historical romance novel takes us from Papua New Guinea to Sydney and then Darwin, as this family epic brings together a wonderful cast of characters and gives the reader a special treat.
I remember reading the author's first novel, Gallipoli Street and, while it didn't set my world on fire, I could tell that there was a very good story-teller lurking, just waiting for the right story to be told. And, for me, this was it.
If you have an interest in Australian history - especially during the dramatic days before and during WW2; if you love a bit of danger, action and romance in your novels; and if you are looking for a fresh, new voice in Australian fiction, then absolutely give this book a try.
Paul
ARH
Eighteen-year-old Junie Wallace is a smart girl and, with her two brothers away at war and her third brother just killed in action, she knows there is only one way to save the family farm for her grieving parents. Unfortunately, that solution involves marrying the unscrupulous Ernest, and breaking the heart of the young drover she loves, Michael.
But the war is looming ever closer, and when Pearl Harbour brings the threat of Japanese aggression to Australian shores, the fates of many becomes inextricably interwoven.
From the explosive battles of the Pacific campaign to the desperate fighting in the Papuan New Guinea rainforest; the dance-hall gaiety of Sydney’s Trocadero to the terror of the Darwin bombings, this epic family saga brings home the importance of mateship and of fighting for what you believe in, even when impossible odds seem stacked against you, even when all seems lost…
Set against the backdrop of WW2, this Australian historical romance novel takes us from Papua New Guinea to Sydney and then Darwin, as this family epic brings together a wonderful cast of characters and gives the reader a special treat.
I remember reading the author's first novel, Gallipoli Street and, while it didn't set my world on fire, I could tell that there was a very good story-teller lurking, just waiting for the right story to be told. And, for me, this was it.
If you have an interest in Australian history - especially during the dramatic days before and during WW2; if you love a bit of danger, action and romance in your novels; and if you are looking for a fresh, new voice in Australian fiction, then absolutely give this book a try.
Paul
ARH
October 12, 2016
Junie Wallace is engaged to be married. She is to marry the man who has rescued her family from financial disaster. This should be a happy occasion. A win, win situation for everyone. Alas her heart belongs to another, a young drover called Michael. Michael has stolen her heart, but will she ever be free to give him hers?
Worth Fighting For is an evocative, emotional read about the courage of one young woman, who puts her family above her own happiness.
Set in the backdrop of WW2, Worth Fighting For is rich in historical detail. From the horrors of Pearl Harbor to the fierce fighting in Papua New Guinea's rainforest, this book describes the horrors of war in explicit detail. It was very real in the telling and at times, I found myself reaching for the Kleenex as characters I came to care about faced life and death situations.
Junie is a well-rounded and believable character, trapped in an impossible situation. I felt her heartache and her despair, and I rejoiced with her triumphs.
O'Conner does not shy away from the treatment of the indigenous tribes in Australia at the time, and I thought she approached this delicate subject with compassion and humanity.
Worth Fighting For is a well-researched and compelling read. I read the book in one sitting. I simply could not put it down. With beautiful prose and an enthralling storyline, I have no hesitation in recommending this book.
I Highly Recommend.
Worth Fighting For is an evocative, emotional read about the courage of one young woman, who puts her family above her own happiness.
Set in the backdrop of WW2, Worth Fighting For is rich in historical detail. From the horrors of Pearl Harbor to the fierce fighting in Papua New Guinea's rainforest, this book describes the horrors of war in explicit detail. It was very real in the telling and at times, I found myself reaching for the Kleenex as characters I came to care about faced life and death situations.
Junie is a well-rounded and believable character, trapped in an impossible situation. I felt her heartache and her despair, and I rejoiced with her triumphs.
O'Conner does not shy away from the treatment of the indigenous tribes in Australia at the time, and I thought she approached this delicate subject with compassion and humanity.
Worth Fighting For is a well-researched and compelling read. I read the book in one sitting. I simply could not put it down. With beautiful prose and an enthralling storyline, I have no hesitation in recommending this book.
I Highly Recommend.
December 18, 2016
Mary-Anne O'Connor has done it again...an amazing book with World War 2 as her backdrop. The characters in this book are so real and genuine you get the feeling that you know them personally. So many twists and turns yet the whole story is tied together beautifully. One of the best books I've read in along time and actually quite sad to have finished it. Can't wait for her next book.
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