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The Country Girl
Bestselling Australian author Cathryn Hein returns with a moving and uplifting rural romance about facing hard truths and moving on in pursuit of life. Can this love story find a new beginning?
After landing a major cookbook deal, star food blogger Tash Ranger swaps city life for the family farm. But Tash's homecoming is bittersweet, for now she can no longer avoid seeing her best friend Maddy, who was severely injured in a riding accident. No one knows that Maddy and Tash had a deep falling out and with every visit Tash must pretend to be the friend everyone believes her to be.
Patrick Lawson, Maddy's fiancé, battles despair and hope daily as Maddy lies imprisoned in her body. When Tash returns to Castlereagh Road with her joy and boundless appetite for life, he realises finally what his loved ones have been trying to tell him for months – that Maddy wouldn't want him to throw his life away. It's time to move on. But letting go is no easy feat.
Can these two friends step out of the shadow of Maddy's tragic life and accept love, or is the past forever destined to dictate their future?
After landing a major cookbook deal, star food blogger Tash Ranger swaps city life for the family farm. But Tash's homecoming is bittersweet, for now she can no longer avoid seeing her best friend Maddy, who was severely injured in a riding accident. No one knows that Maddy and Tash had a deep falling out and with every visit Tash must pretend to be the friend everyone believes her to be.
Patrick Lawson, Maddy's fiancé, battles despair and hope daily as Maddy lies imprisoned in her body. When Tash returns to Castlereagh Road with her joy and boundless appetite for life, he realises finally what his loved ones have been trying to tell him for months – that Maddy wouldn't want him to throw his life away. It's time to move on. But letting go is no easy feat.
Can these two friends step out of the shadow of Maddy's tragic life and accept love, or is the past forever destined to dictate their future?
- GenresRomanceContemporary
544 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 1, 2018
18 people are currently reading
115 people want to read
About the author
Cathryn Hein
34 books176 followersCathryn Hein is a best-selling author of rural romance and romantic adventure novels, a Romance Writers of Australia Romantic Book of the Year finalist with Santa and the Saddler, and a regular Australian Romance Reader Awards finalist.
A South Australian country girl by birth, Cathryn loves nothing more than a rugged rural hero who’s as good with his heart as he is with his hands, which is probably why she writes them! Her romances are warm and emotional, and feature themes that don’t flinch from the tougher side of life but are often happily tempered by the antics of naughty animals. Her aim is to make you smile, sigh, and perhaps sniffle a little, but most of all feel wonderful.
Cathryn lives in Newcastle, Australia with her partner of many years, Jim. When she’s not writing, she plays golf (ineptly), cooks (well), and in football season barracks (rowdily) for her beloved Sydney Swans AFL team.
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A South Australian country girl by birth, Cathryn loves nothing more than a rugged rural hero who’s as good with his heart as he is with his hands, which is probably why she writes them! Her romances are warm and emotional, and feature themes that don’t flinch from the tougher side of life but are often happily tempered by the antics of naughty animals. Her aim is to make you smile, sigh, and perhaps sniffle a little, but most of all feel wonderful.
Cathryn lives in Newcastle, Australia with her partner of many years, Jim. When she’s not writing, she plays golf (ineptly), cooks (well), and in football season barracks (rowdily) for her beloved Sydney Swans AFL team.
Do you love free stories? Join my newsletter team for new release news, teasers, book sales and more, along with access to my collection of smile-inducing romantic short stories.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 49 reviews
March 22, 2018
As soon as I started reading The Country Girl my heart was breaking for Patrick and Maddy. Patrick and Maddy were engaged when Maddy suffers a tragic accident and is left unable to communicate.
Tash, a highly successful food blogger with a cookbook deal in the works, decides to return home to Castlereagh, her parent’s farm near Emu Springs, where she will film new episodes for her blog, Urban Ranger. The addition of a gardening spot by her cheeky Grandfather has her subscriber numbers skyrocketing. However this is only a temporary stop for Tash. She has big ideas for Urban Ranger and they don’t include staying at Castlereagh.
Old jealousies and tiffs threaten to arise when Tash returns home. However hard it may be Patrick needs to leave the past behind and move on with his life but a promise was made and Patrick is an honourable man.
Hein has created real characters with Maddy and Patrick. Maddy is strong and has a real sense of self, outgoing and fun she is a perfect balance for Patrick who is full of sorrow and grief, stuck in a time lock with no real future in sight. The road is never smooth with plenty of road bumps and misunderstandings which are cause for some very scary moments. Hein’s descriptions of the countryside and the supporting characters give a perfect sense of place and add to the ambience of the story.
The story is fun and the romance is a slow burn. Food and cooking feature prominently in this rural romance and the descriptions of Tash’s delicacies will have you wishing there really was a cookbook in the works.
Cathryn Hein combines her love of romance and her love of cooking to give her readers yet another unmissable rural romance story.
My thanks to the publisher via Netgalley for my copy to read and review.
Tash, a highly successful food blogger with a cookbook deal in the works, decides to return home to Castlereagh, her parent’s farm near Emu Springs, where she will film new episodes for her blog, Urban Ranger. The addition of a gardening spot by her cheeky Grandfather has her subscriber numbers skyrocketing. However this is only a temporary stop for Tash. She has big ideas for Urban Ranger and they don’t include staying at Castlereagh.
Old jealousies and tiffs threaten to arise when Tash returns home. However hard it may be Patrick needs to leave the past behind and move on with his life but a promise was made and Patrick is an honourable man.
Hein has created real characters with Maddy and Patrick. Maddy is strong and has a real sense of self, outgoing and fun she is a perfect balance for Patrick who is full of sorrow and grief, stuck in a time lock with no real future in sight. The road is never smooth with plenty of road bumps and misunderstandings which are cause for some very scary moments. Hein’s descriptions of the countryside and the supporting characters give a perfect sense of place and add to the ambience of the story.
The story is fun and the romance is a slow burn. Food and cooking feature prominently in this rural romance and the descriptions of Tash’s delicacies will have you wishing there really was a cookbook in the works.
Cathryn Hein combines her love of romance and her love of cooking to give her readers yet another unmissable rural romance story.
My thanks to the publisher via Netgalley for my copy to read and review.
February 24, 2018
3.5★s
Tash Ranger's life as a food blogger had bloomed with hundreds of followers online. Her success had landed her a major cookbook deal and she couldn't tamp down her excitement. Tash's decision to return home to the family property in Castlereagh, Victoria meant she was even more popular and in demand than before - the inclusion of her Pa in her online blogging meant she soon had hundreds more followers.
But Tash's best friend Maddy was someone she felt intense guilt about. Maddy had suffered a serious accident which left her completely reliant on her parents and friends, with no ability to communicate - she was trapped in her body and although her family and fiancé Patrick had high hopes for her recovery, Maddy's doctors weren't so convinced. Tash's guilt stemmed from the argument the two had had before the accident - now Tash couldn't make amends, and it hurt her badly...
Patrick's anger at the situation, and his guilt at his ongoing attraction to Tash - his friends had continued to tell him it was okay to move on and that Maddy wouldn't want him to waste his life - plus Tash's rising star status meant his confliction of feelings was intense. And what about Tash? How did she feel?
What would be the outcome for these two young people who had been friends since their school days?
The Country Girl by Aussie author Cathryn Hein is an emotional and tormenting story of guilt, unhappiness and letting go. Of forgiving yourself, and moving forward. Another lovely rural romance by this author that I happily recommend.
With thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my digital copy to read and review.
Tash Ranger's life as a food blogger had bloomed with hundreds of followers online. Her success had landed her a major cookbook deal and she couldn't tamp down her excitement. Tash's decision to return home to the family property in Castlereagh, Victoria meant she was even more popular and in demand than before - the inclusion of her Pa in her online blogging meant she soon had hundreds more followers.
But Tash's best friend Maddy was someone she felt intense guilt about. Maddy had suffered a serious accident which left her completely reliant on her parents and friends, with no ability to communicate - she was trapped in her body and although her family and fiancé Patrick had high hopes for her recovery, Maddy's doctors weren't so convinced. Tash's guilt stemmed from the argument the two had had before the accident - now Tash couldn't make amends, and it hurt her badly...
Patrick's anger at the situation, and his guilt at his ongoing attraction to Tash - his friends had continued to tell him it was okay to move on and that Maddy wouldn't want him to waste his life - plus Tash's rising star status meant his confliction of feelings was intense. And what about Tash? How did she feel?
What would be the outcome for these two young people who had been friends since their school days?
The Country Girl by Aussie author Cathryn Hein is an emotional and tormenting story of guilt, unhappiness and letting go. Of forgiving yourself, and moving forward. Another lovely rural romance by this author that I happily recommend.
With thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my digital copy to read and review.
November 10, 2025
*https://mrsbbookreviews.wordpress.com
4.5 stars
Rural romance writer Cathryn Hein returns with a brand new release, titled The Country Girl. Hein’s latest novel was a real treat for this reader, as a big fan of Hein’s work, a new book by an author I know will not disappoint is always a welcome experience. The Country Girl is, put simply, a lovely read from Hein. Romance features prominently, along with issues of trust, guilt and moving forward.
Food blogger Tash Ranger is making a name for herself. With a successful food blog and now a major cookbook deal, things are looking up for this country girl. Tash decides to make a return home to Castlereagh, near the country town of Emu Springs, in Victoria. Although Tash loves returning home to see her family and old friends, the tragic accident of her best friend Maddie, makes coming home that bit harder for Tash. Tash holds a very guilty secret, Maddie and Task had a big row before her accident and now Tash can’t forgive herself. To makes matters worse, the two have been unable to reconcile due to Maddie’s condition, she is severely disabled. Tash continues to pretend everything is fine but underneath she is hurting. Another important person in Maddie’s life who is hurting and is stuck in a state of limbo is Maddie’s fiancé Patrick. Patrick, along with Maddie’s devoted parents are clinging onto the hope that Maddie will show signs of life. When Tash returns home after her success in the city, her positive outlook on life sparks something in the despairing Patrick. Patrick and Tash wrestle with the memories and guilt over moving on without Maddie. This friends to lovers story is one that packs an emotional punch for any seasoned rural romance reader.
As soon as I opened The Country Girl I was taken in by the beauty of this novel. The title page, along with each chapter opening, is adorned by a stunning native flower design. The aesthetic appeal of The Country Girl gave me a hint of what to expect in this wholesome country based tale. Packaged within this latest rural fiction tale from Cathryn Hein, is a romance that will tug at your heartstrings. A tissue box is a staple with this novel. Hein’s novel is touched with sadness, raw emotion but it also offers hope for the two endearing leads of this novel.
Hein has cast a very likeable couple at the centre The Country Girl. Patrick is the hero of the story. He is a young hardworking farmer, who enjoys playing football for his local club. Patrick is engaged to his childhood sweetheart, Maddie. However, a tragic accident on her horse Khan has left Maddie with a serious brain injury. Since the accident life has stood still for Patrick, despite those around him begging him to move on.
The other half of Hein’s couple is Tash Ranger. Tash also hails from the area of Castlereagh, but she has swapped life in the country for the city. Tash is a character I immediately warmed to. I loved her bright and bubbly personality. Tash’s overall positive and nurturing outlook on life also struck a chord with me. Tash is an interesting lead, her burgeoning career as a food blogger was fascinating and very current. Tash’s career efforts give room for Hein to include many pages devoted to cooking and consuming food. These were an absolute delight and really made the novel. Plenty of cooking smells wafted from the pages of The Country Girl. I also found myself drooling many times over thanks to Tash’s dishes! It is a shame Hein didn’t include a few of these fantastic recipes in the back of her book for readers to try!
Patrick and Tash are supported by a bevy of memorable characters. Of these, Tash’s grandfather or ‘Pa’ as she refers to him in the novel, is the most colourful. I loved the gentle interactions between Tash and Pa. I welcomed Pa’s gardening tips and loved how he was involved in Tash’s food blogging videos. Pa is quite the hip grandfather, with a tender heart to match. As with many of Hein’s previous novels, animals feature prominently in the story. There is Khan, Maddie’s horse, who is blamed for her accident. Khan ends up in the care of Tash. Then there is the loveable Coco. All of the animals featured in The Country Girl are wonderfully drawn.
As this is a rural romance novel, romance is a big theme in this appealing novel. The romance that develops between the leads, Tash and Patrick, is tainted by their reservations about Maddie. However, when these two interact, there is plenty of sizzling heat, tender moments and a genuine love story that develop between the two. Tash and Patrick’s love story is not perfect, nor is it smooth. Plenty of roadblocks stand in the way of their burgeoning romance, along with a good share of relationship baggage and misunderstandings that define their coming together. Hein is an expert in rural romance stories and this one is no exception.
Hein wraps up her latest novel by taking the reader of quite the tumultuous journey to happy ever after, expect some tears, laughter and that tingly feeling in your heart. The Country Girl features a pathway to love, hope and happiness that I enjoyed following. Hats off to Cathryn Hein, who has again delivered a magnificent rural fiction tale.
*Please note that a free copy of this book was provided to me for review purposes through Beauty and Lace and Harlequin Books Australia. To read the original review on the Beauty and Lace website please visit http://bookgirl.beautyandlace.net/boo...
4.5 stars
Rural romance writer Cathryn Hein returns with a brand new release, titled The Country Girl. Hein’s latest novel was a real treat for this reader, as a big fan of Hein’s work, a new book by an author I know will not disappoint is always a welcome experience. The Country Girl is, put simply, a lovely read from Hein. Romance features prominently, along with issues of trust, guilt and moving forward.
Food blogger Tash Ranger is making a name for herself. With a successful food blog and now a major cookbook deal, things are looking up for this country girl. Tash decides to make a return home to Castlereagh, near the country town of Emu Springs, in Victoria. Although Tash loves returning home to see her family and old friends, the tragic accident of her best friend Maddie, makes coming home that bit harder for Tash. Tash holds a very guilty secret, Maddie and Task had a big row before her accident and now Tash can’t forgive herself. To makes matters worse, the two have been unable to reconcile due to Maddie’s condition, she is severely disabled. Tash continues to pretend everything is fine but underneath she is hurting. Another important person in Maddie’s life who is hurting and is stuck in a state of limbo is Maddie’s fiancé Patrick. Patrick, along with Maddie’s devoted parents are clinging onto the hope that Maddie will show signs of life. When Tash returns home after her success in the city, her positive outlook on life sparks something in the despairing Patrick. Patrick and Tash wrestle with the memories and guilt over moving on without Maddie. This friends to lovers story is one that packs an emotional punch for any seasoned rural romance reader.
As soon as I opened The Country Girl I was taken in by the beauty of this novel. The title page, along with each chapter opening, is adorned by a stunning native flower design. The aesthetic appeal of The Country Girl gave me a hint of what to expect in this wholesome country based tale. Packaged within this latest rural fiction tale from Cathryn Hein, is a romance that will tug at your heartstrings. A tissue box is a staple with this novel. Hein’s novel is touched with sadness, raw emotion but it also offers hope for the two endearing leads of this novel.
Hein has cast a very likeable couple at the centre The Country Girl. Patrick is the hero of the story. He is a young hardworking farmer, who enjoys playing football for his local club. Patrick is engaged to his childhood sweetheart, Maddie. However, a tragic accident on her horse Khan has left Maddie with a serious brain injury. Since the accident life has stood still for Patrick, despite those around him begging him to move on.
The other half of Hein’s couple is Tash Ranger. Tash also hails from the area of Castlereagh, but she has swapped life in the country for the city. Tash is a character I immediately warmed to. I loved her bright and bubbly personality. Tash’s overall positive and nurturing outlook on life also struck a chord with me. Tash is an interesting lead, her burgeoning career as a food blogger was fascinating and very current. Tash’s career efforts give room for Hein to include many pages devoted to cooking and consuming food. These were an absolute delight and really made the novel. Plenty of cooking smells wafted from the pages of The Country Girl. I also found myself drooling many times over thanks to Tash’s dishes! It is a shame Hein didn’t include a few of these fantastic recipes in the back of her book for readers to try!
Patrick and Tash are supported by a bevy of memorable characters. Of these, Tash’s grandfather or ‘Pa’ as she refers to him in the novel, is the most colourful. I loved the gentle interactions between Tash and Pa. I welcomed Pa’s gardening tips and loved how he was involved in Tash’s food blogging videos. Pa is quite the hip grandfather, with a tender heart to match. As with many of Hein’s previous novels, animals feature prominently in the story. There is Khan, Maddie’s horse, who is blamed for her accident. Khan ends up in the care of Tash. Then there is the loveable Coco. All of the animals featured in The Country Girl are wonderfully drawn.
As this is a rural romance novel, romance is a big theme in this appealing novel. The romance that develops between the leads, Tash and Patrick, is tainted by their reservations about Maddie. However, when these two interact, there is plenty of sizzling heat, tender moments and a genuine love story that develop between the two. Tash and Patrick’s love story is not perfect, nor is it smooth. Plenty of roadblocks stand in the way of their burgeoning romance, along with a good share of relationship baggage and misunderstandings that define their coming together. Hein is an expert in rural romance stories and this one is no exception.
Hein wraps up her latest novel by taking the reader of quite the tumultuous journey to happy ever after, expect some tears, laughter and that tingly feeling in your heart. The Country Girl features a pathway to love, hope and happiness that I enjoyed following. Hats off to Cathryn Hein, who has again delivered a magnificent rural fiction tale.
*Please note that a free copy of this book was provided to me for review purposes through Beauty and Lace and Harlequin Books Australia. To read the original review on the Beauty and Lace website please visit http://bookgirl.beautyandlace.net/boo...
May 1, 2018
The Country Girl is about love, loyal and family. Food blogger Tash Ranger has decided to come home to Castlereagh and to launch her new Country blog. However, Tash Ranger felt torn about returning home because of her guilt over Maggie seriously injured after falling off her horse and for her love of Patrick Lawson Maggie's finance. Patrick Lawson is having trouble letting Maggie go and find love again with someone else. Readers of The Country Girl will continue to follow to see what happens to Maggie, Tash and Patrick.
I love reading Cathryn Hein books, and The Country Girl did not disappoint. I enjoyed the way Cathryn Hein intertwined and portrayed her characters that ensure that I either laugh or cry. The Country Girl is well written and researched by Cathryn Hein. I like Cathryn Hein portrayal of her characters and the way they interact with each other.
The readers of The Country Girl will learn about being a food blogger and the benefits they have on other people. Also, the readers of The Country Girl will see the importance of wear hamlets when riding horses and bikes. The Country Girl also highlights the problems that parents face when they have a child that entirely depended on them for everything.
I recommend this book
I love reading Cathryn Hein books, and The Country Girl did not disappoint. I enjoyed the way Cathryn Hein intertwined and portrayed her characters that ensure that I either laugh or cry. The Country Girl is well written and researched by Cathryn Hein. I like Cathryn Hein portrayal of her characters and the way they interact with each other.
The readers of The Country Girl will learn about being a food blogger and the benefits they have on other people. Also, the readers of The Country Girl will see the importance of wear hamlets when riding horses and bikes. The Country Girl also highlights the problems that parents face when they have a child that entirely depended on them for everything.
I recommend this book
December 22, 2017
This is a beautifully written story but you will need some tissues at the ready, I loved the setting a small country town where the neighbours are all good friends and there to support, and of course I loved that friends that had gone to school together re connect and journey to a HEA that has a few matters that take a bit to overcome that will end in lots of smiles.
Tash Ranger grew up in Emu Springs and had lots of friends but always felt the frumpy one and she loves cooking and food, Tash moved away started a blog and has had huge success she now has a cookbook deal and has moved back home to take her show back to the country, but one thing she is worried about is visiting her best friend Maddie this is heartbreaking for Tash as Maddie was badly injured when riding her horse and life will never been the same for her.
Patrick Lawson lives with heartbreak he is Maddie’s fiancé and is true to his promise to love and care for her but Maddie lives with her parents Patrick is not coping well, when Tash moves back home and somehow she gives him the strength to make some decisions and move on start a new life and listen to his feelings for Tash.
Patrick and Tash have this pull between them both were so close to Maddie but now it is time for them, the journey isn’t easy but oh I do love Tash what a beautiful caring loving strong woman she is and Patrick so vulnerable but gorgeous and these two make the perfect couple. Of course Tash’s cooking is to die for as well I am sure I put on a couple of kilos just reading this book oh my goodness the fun and friendships along the journey are so beautiful woohoo MS Hein I loved Tash and Patrick’s story another one for the keeper shelf and one that I highly recommend.
Tash Ranger grew up in Emu Springs and had lots of friends but always felt the frumpy one and she loves cooking and food, Tash moved away started a blog and has had huge success she now has a cookbook deal and has moved back home to take her show back to the country, but one thing she is worried about is visiting her best friend Maddie this is heartbreaking for Tash as Maddie was badly injured when riding her horse and life will never been the same for her.
Patrick Lawson lives with heartbreak he is Maddie’s fiancé and is true to his promise to love and care for her but Maddie lives with her parents Patrick is not coping well, when Tash moves back home and somehow she gives him the strength to make some decisions and move on start a new life and listen to his feelings for Tash.
Patrick and Tash have this pull between them both were so close to Maddie but now it is time for them, the journey isn’t easy but oh I do love Tash what a beautiful caring loving strong woman she is and Patrick so vulnerable but gorgeous and these two make the perfect couple. Of course Tash’s cooking is to die for as well I am sure I put on a couple of kilos just reading this book oh my goodness the fun and friendships along the journey are so beautiful woohoo MS Hein I loved Tash and Patrick’s story another one for the keeper shelf and one that I highly recommend.
March 6, 2018
Tash has a successful online food channel. She loved living in the city, but to write her new cookbook she goes back to her countryside roots. Returning to the family farm will be invigorating as well as difficult. It means Tash will see her friend Maddy again. Maddy and Tash used to be best friends, but they had an argument and before they could set things straight Maddy had an accident that left her gravely injured. Maddy can no longer respond to anything that's being said to her, so there's no chance to ever talk and reconcile. Will Tash be able to cope with behaving like a friend when she no longer knows if Maddy would still see her that way?
Patrick and Maddy were engaged when the accident happens. Even though Maddy is no longer capable to have contact, Patrick has made her a promise and he intends to keep it. He's desperate because of his loss and his inability to let Maddy go and move on. Food heals a lot of wounds and Tash's cooking slowly makes him feel more alive again. Her bubbly and enthusiastic attitude are making it impossible for Patrick to stay gloomy when he's near her and slowly his heart starts to thaw. However, he still feels he should remain bound to Maddy. Even though she would probably want him to move on and be loved again. Will Tash be able to help Patrick grasp his second chance at happiness?
The Country Girl is a wonderful heartwarming story. I immediately loved Tash, she is cheerful, positive and sweet. She loves sharing her food and that is why her brand is so popular. Her videos are going viral and everyone likes the beautiful kindhearted country girl. Being back home inspires Tash's creativity, but it also brings back problems she could leave behind when she was in the city. She misses her friendship with Maddy and has to live with the fact she can't make things right. She might not be able to reach Maddy, but she can do something for Patrick. He's depressed, lonely and desolate. Maddy was his entire life and he doesn't know how to live without her. Tash's caring nature and delicious cooking are making it possible for him to slowly start over again. This was such a beautiful moving process to watch.
Cathryn Hein has written an impressive story. I loved how she combines the emotional part of Maddy's accident and the grief her loved ones are suffering from because of it, with delicious food and a gorgeous love story. The Country Girl has plenty of fantastic layers and they're all equally interesting. Cathryn Hein's thorough and vivid descriptions of Tash's world are making her story come to life in a mesmerizing way. The Country Girl is captivating, romantic, touching, thought-provoking and delightful. I really loved this amazing book.
Patrick and Maddy were engaged when the accident happens. Even though Maddy is no longer capable to have contact, Patrick has made her a promise and he intends to keep it. He's desperate because of his loss and his inability to let Maddy go and move on. Food heals a lot of wounds and Tash's cooking slowly makes him feel more alive again. Her bubbly and enthusiastic attitude are making it impossible for Patrick to stay gloomy when he's near her and slowly his heart starts to thaw. However, he still feels he should remain bound to Maddy. Even though she would probably want him to move on and be loved again. Will Tash be able to help Patrick grasp his second chance at happiness?
The Country Girl is a wonderful heartwarming story. I immediately loved Tash, she is cheerful, positive and sweet. She loves sharing her food and that is why her brand is so popular. Her videos are going viral and everyone likes the beautiful kindhearted country girl. Being back home inspires Tash's creativity, but it also brings back problems she could leave behind when she was in the city. She misses her friendship with Maddy and has to live with the fact she can't make things right. She might not be able to reach Maddy, but she can do something for Patrick. He's depressed, lonely and desolate. Maddy was his entire life and he doesn't know how to live without her. Tash's caring nature and delicious cooking are making it possible for him to slowly start over again. This was such a beautiful moving process to watch.
Cathryn Hein has written an impressive story. I loved how she combines the emotional part of Maddy's accident and the grief her loved ones are suffering from because of it, with delicious food and a gorgeous love story. The Country Girl has plenty of fantastic layers and they're all equally interesting. Cathryn Hein's thorough and vivid descriptions of Tash's world are making her story come to life in a mesmerizing way. The Country Girl is captivating, romantic, touching, thought-provoking and delightful. I really loved this amazing book.
January 12, 2018
Tash Ranger has made her career as a food vlogger, her good recipes and camera presence building her a steady following. In an attempt to keep her output fresh she’s moving back to her family farm – the Urban Ranger goes (back to the) country! It’s the place Tash grew up and she’s remodelling her grandfather’s old flat for cooking and filming. She has lots of ideas about fresh, local produce but it’s not supposed to be a permanent thing. Her mind is always ticking over, thinking of new ideas, keeping her output new and innovative.
Tash knows Patrick Lawson as first the boyfriend and then later the fiance of her childhood best friend Maddie. A shocking accident means that Maddie is no longer the person she was, but Patrick has remained loyal to her. He still visits her every day and he intends to keep his promises to her. This is severely complicated by Tash’s return and the reactions that Patrick has whilst around her. It starts off as overprotective as he seeks to stop Tash from doing the very thing that injured Maddie and he is very adamant about it. Tash however, is not really into being bossed around by Patrick, nor is she incapable of making her own judgements. Tash challenges Patrick and isn’t afraid to tell him off and despite their rocky start when Tash arrives back in town, they keep crossing paths.
I’m not going to lie – I had some reservations about this pairing before I started the story. Tash knows Patrick as her best friend’s boyfriend. It’s true that Maddie isn’t the same anymore and won’t ever be the same. But I was wary about the whole “best friend’s boyfriend/girlfriend’s best friend’ sort of thing. It’s not an entanglement I usually enjoy although the circumstances in this story were very different. And the way it was handled definitely won me over. Patrick is so obviously such a tortured soul. He’s still so young but he’s stuck by Maddie, even though they will never be able to have that life together that they’d planned anymore. He’s so determined to keep his promises, despite the fact that other people are concerned about him an want him to embrace his life. The way that the attraction between him and Tash unfolds felt really natural and that like Patrick was ready to move on, he just had to make that conscious decision to actually do so, which he was struggling with because he had made promises to Maddie. I have to admit, Patrick didn’t endear himself to me at first – there’s an incident towards the beginning of the story that’s a bit hard to take although I know the logistics of why Patrick wanted to do something but ultimately the fault doesn’t lie where he was trying to place it. He needs something to blame though, and that’s the easiest option. There’s also how bossy and arrogant he was with Tash, but she puts him in his place relatively quickly and once he kind of settled down a bit and realised no one had a death wish, he began to grow on me. I thought that his internal struggle was very well written and I could really feel his pain and indecision. The desire to do what he’d promised versus the possibility of a more fulfilling life with someone who was in a position to love him in return.
I absolutely loved Tash’s job as a food vlogger and the devotion to her creations in this story. There’s lots of amazing meals described – Cathryn Hein is a pretty enthusiastic cook so I wouldn’t be surprised if most are these are some of her favourite dishes! Tash spends quite a bit of time with her grandfather starting up the farm’s vegetable garden too and I loved their chats – her grandfather goes kind of “viral” which was cute. He was a fantastic character, a cheeky older man who in some ways reminded me of my own (sadly gone now) grandfather. Mine could be cheeky as well and enjoyed a story over a veggie garden. I think if I’d asked him to help me revive one he’d have been in on that before you could blink.
The Country Girl definitely won me over, which is no surprise really because Cathryn Hein is one of my favourite authors and her rurals are always sweet with a bit of a sassy twist. I went from my original slight skepticism to fully on board with Patrick and Tash because I think they were bringing out the best in each other as well as showing each other that they had options.
**A copy of this book was provided by the publisher via NetGalley for the purposes of a review**
Tash knows Patrick Lawson as first the boyfriend and then later the fiance of her childhood best friend Maddie. A shocking accident means that Maddie is no longer the person she was, but Patrick has remained loyal to her. He still visits her every day and he intends to keep his promises to her. This is severely complicated by Tash’s return and the reactions that Patrick has whilst around her. It starts off as overprotective as he seeks to stop Tash from doing the very thing that injured Maddie and he is very adamant about it. Tash however, is not really into being bossed around by Patrick, nor is she incapable of making her own judgements. Tash challenges Patrick and isn’t afraid to tell him off and despite their rocky start when Tash arrives back in town, they keep crossing paths.
I’m not going to lie – I had some reservations about this pairing before I started the story. Tash knows Patrick as her best friend’s boyfriend. It’s true that Maddie isn’t the same anymore and won’t ever be the same. But I was wary about the whole “best friend’s boyfriend/girlfriend’s best friend’ sort of thing. It’s not an entanglement I usually enjoy although the circumstances in this story were very different. And the way it was handled definitely won me over. Patrick is so obviously such a tortured soul. He’s still so young but he’s stuck by Maddie, even though they will never be able to have that life together that they’d planned anymore. He’s so determined to keep his promises, despite the fact that other people are concerned about him an want him to embrace his life. The way that the attraction between him and Tash unfolds felt really natural and that like Patrick was ready to move on, he just had to make that conscious decision to actually do so, which he was struggling with because he had made promises to Maddie. I have to admit, Patrick didn’t endear himself to me at first – there’s an incident towards the beginning of the story that’s a bit hard to take although I know the logistics of why Patrick wanted to do something but ultimately the fault doesn’t lie where he was trying to place it. He needs something to blame though, and that’s the easiest option. There’s also how bossy and arrogant he was with Tash, but she puts him in his place relatively quickly and once he kind of settled down a bit and realised no one had a death wish, he began to grow on me. I thought that his internal struggle was very well written and I could really feel his pain and indecision. The desire to do what he’d promised versus the possibility of a more fulfilling life with someone who was in a position to love him in return.
I absolutely loved Tash’s job as a food vlogger and the devotion to her creations in this story. There’s lots of amazing meals described – Cathryn Hein is a pretty enthusiastic cook so I wouldn’t be surprised if most are these are some of her favourite dishes! Tash spends quite a bit of time with her grandfather starting up the farm’s vegetable garden too and I loved their chats – her grandfather goes kind of “viral” which was cute. He was a fantastic character, a cheeky older man who in some ways reminded me of my own (sadly gone now) grandfather. Mine could be cheeky as well and enjoyed a story over a veggie garden. I think if I’d asked him to help me revive one he’d have been in on that before you could blink.
The Country Girl definitely won me over, which is no surprise really because Cathryn Hein is one of my favourite authors and her rurals are always sweet with a bit of a sassy twist. I went from my original slight skepticism to fully on board with Patrick and Tash because I think they were bringing out the best in each other as well as showing each other that they had options.
**A copy of this book was provided by the publisher via NetGalley for the purposes of a review**
December 18, 2017
Another great rural romance by Cathryn Hein. Food plays an important roll in the story, and while not a big foodie myself I like how it was weaved into the story. The two main characters had a lot to work through, especially guilt, memories and future expectations. It also shows how important communication and honesty are in all relationships.
Thanks to Netgalley and Harlequin (Australia), TEEN / MIRA for a copy in return for honest review
Thanks to Netgalley and Harlequin (Australia), TEEN / MIRA for a copy in return for honest review
December 5, 2017
Tash and Patrick's characters had some likeable moments in a happily ever after story. While the story did not jump at me, there were some notable moments throughout the read.
Review copy received from Harlequin Australia via Netgalley
Review copy received from Harlequin Australia via Netgalley
January 15, 2018
One of the best books over all genres that I read in the last 12mths. Fantastic well developed characters and a bloody good story to boot. I really loved it. This is Cathryn Hein's best book todate and she has grown so much as a writer and this book was a joy to read.
August 31, 2019
An enjoyable story but halfway through, it seemed to stall.
Things could have been wrapped up in less chapters than there are.
Things could have been wrapped up in less chapters than there are.
July 26, 2020
This book is so full of Love...and very good food!
May 26, 2018
(I received a free copy of this book from Net Galley in exchange for an honest review.)
After landing a major cookbook deal, star food blogger Tash Ranger swaps city life for the family farm. But Tash’s homecoming is bittersweet, for now she can no longer avoid seeing her best friend Maddie, who was severely injured in a riding accident. No one knows that Maddie and Tash had a deep falling out and with every visit Tash must pretend to be the friend everyone believes her to be.
Patrick Lawson, Maddie’s fiancé, battles despair and hope daily as Maddie lies imprisoned in her body. When Tash returns to Castlereagh Road with her joy and boundless appetite for life, he realises finally what his loved ones have been trying to tell him for months – that Maddie wouldn’t want him to throw his life away. It’s time to move on. But letting go is no easy feat.
Can these two friends step out of the shadow of Maddie’s tragic life and accept love, or is the past forever destined to dictate their future?
*4.5 stars*
Well, didn't this one pack a punch? Not that I was expecting an ordinary rural romance novel - not that I would have expected that from Cathryn Hein, that's for sure - but this story really does tug on the heartstrings. And I think that is due to the characters that Hein has created here. Without going into the plot (it's just above this paragraph...), the friends to lovers story of Tash and Patrick is filled with heartbreak, pride, honor, friendship, and the art of letting go.
While Patrick and Tash are the centre of this story, it is filled with others that bring this story to life. Firstly, Maddy - who was Tash's best friend years ago, and now Patrick's fiancée. She has an accident on her horse and is left with a serious brain injury and is uncommunicative. She is the centre of Patrick's world and his sense of loyalty to a promise he made is heartbreaking. While she isn't an "active" participant in the novel, Maddy certainly fills a space quite superbly.
Also, on the flipside of that, we have Tash's grandfather - also known as "Pa" - is certainly the secondary character that grabs all the attention on a different level. After Tash returns home, she includes Pa in her online blogging - and his cheeky nature brings her plenty of more followers. Also, though, he is a warm and caring man who has plenty of personality to bring a fine counterpoint to Maddy.
Not sure what else to say here. Patrick has to come to terms with moving on and getting on with his life, Tash has to move on from the guilt she feels about Maddy's accident and tries to find a way to make amends - all the while, the two of them grow closer...
More than just a rural romance novel, this has all the hallmarks of a brilliant story - that just happens to be set in rural Australia...
Paul
ARH
After landing a major cookbook deal, star food blogger Tash Ranger swaps city life for the family farm. But Tash’s homecoming is bittersweet, for now she can no longer avoid seeing her best friend Maddie, who was severely injured in a riding accident. No one knows that Maddie and Tash had a deep falling out and with every visit Tash must pretend to be the friend everyone believes her to be.
Patrick Lawson, Maddie’s fiancé, battles despair and hope daily as Maddie lies imprisoned in her body. When Tash returns to Castlereagh Road with her joy and boundless appetite for life, he realises finally what his loved ones have been trying to tell him for months – that Maddie wouldn’t want him to throw his life away. It’s time to move on. But letting go is no easy feat.
Can these two friends step out of the shadow of Maddie’s tragic life and accept love, or is the past forever destined to dictate their future?
*4.5 stars*
Well, didn't this one pack a punch? Not that I was expecting an ordinary rural romance novel - not that I would have expected that from Cathryn Hein, that's for sure - but this story really does tug on the heartstrings. And I think that is due to the characters that Hein has created here. Without going into the plot (it's just above this paragraph...), the friends to lovers story of Tash and Patrick is filled with heartbreak, pride, honor, friendship, and the art of letting go.
While Patrick and Tash are the centre of this story, it is filled with others that bring this story to life. Firstly, Maddy - who was Tash's best friend years ago, and now Patrick's fiancée. She has an accident on her horse and is left with a serious brain injury and is uncommunicative. She is the centre of Patrick's world and his sense of loyalty to a promise he made is heartbreaking. While she isn't an "active" participant in the novel, Maddy certainly fills a space quite superbly.
Also, on the flipside of that, we have Tash's grandfather - also known as "Pa" - is certainly the secondary character that grabs all the attention on a different level. After Tash returns home, she includes Pa in her online blogging - and his cheeky nature brings her plenty of more followers. Also, though, he is a warm and caring man who has plenty of personality to bring a fine counterpoint to Maddy.
Not sure what else to say here. Patrick has to come to terms with moving on and getting on with his life, Tash has to move on from the guilt she feels about Maddy's accident and tries to find a way to make amends - all the while, the two of them grow closer...
More than just a rural romance novel, this has all the hallmarks of a brilliant story - that just happens to be set in rural Australia...
Paul
ARH
March 23, 2018
The Country Girl is the first book I have read by Australian rural romance author Cathryn Hein. While it was a predictable story of a country girl finding her way back home, I will go back to read her first book Wayward Heart and her future releases. I found Cathryn's latest book to be both heartwarming and well written, two aspects that are important to me in a book. As I embarked on a journey with Tash as she leaves the city to return to her roots, I was reminded about the importance of letting go of the past and embracing the future.
Th Country Girl is told in the third person through Tash and Patrick. Tash is a 20 something woman born and raised in country Victoria but has left it all behind for city life in Melbourne. Here, she successfully becomes a food blogger with the opportunity to expand her franchise beyond blogging. When she decides to come home to Castlereagh Road for a year to show her followers country life, Tash's true personality shines through. Her strength, tenacity and pride help her achieve her goals and dreams. She doesn't need a man, instead getting on with the job independently. I really admired Tash for following her own path yet still be willing to listen to the advise of others, especially her family. I loved the relationship she has with her grandfather as there was mutual respect on both sides. They were great friends, not just family. Cathryn really highlighted the importance of family for farmers today and in the future.
Tash's childhood friend, Patrick, tells his side of the story through alternating chapters with Tash. Patrick is a unique farmer as he is battling with his finances, Maddie, physical and mental condition. He was admirable in his decision to stay true to his Maddie but I felt for him because, in his 20s, Patrick still had the rest of his life in front of him. I could not imagine the daily pain and anguish Patrick and Maddie's family went through as they continued to have hope in their heart. Despite Patrick's heart being broken, I know that Maddie's family always made the right decision, for Maddie, themselves and also for Patrick. Patrick and Maddie's love story is a gentle reminder to enjoy the present and when the time comes, to let go of the past.
By letting go of the past, Patrick will be able to see if he can embrace his future. You don't need to be Sherlock Holmes to know that his future will lie with Tash but the hurdles along the way will make it anything but easy.
Cathryn's second novel is a wonderful for those who are in need of a life affirming read.
#AWWC number ???#
Th Country Girl is told in the third person through Tash and Patrick. Tash is a 20 something woman born and raised in country Victoria but has left it all behind for city life in Melbourne. Here, she successfully becomes a food blogger with the opportunity to expand her franchise beyond blogging. When she decides to come home to Castlereagh Road for a year to show her followers country life, Tash's true personality shines through. Her strength, tenacity and pride help her achieve her goals and dreams. She doesn't need a man, instead getting on with the job independently. I really admired Tash for following her own path yet still be willing to listen to the advise of others, especially her family. I loved the relationship she has with her grandfather as there was mutual respect on both sides. They were great friends, not just family. Cathryn really highlighted the importance of family for farmers today and in the future.
Tash's childhood friend, Patrick, tells his side of the story through alternating chapters with Tash. Patrick is a unique farmer as he is battling with his finances, Maddie, physical and mental condition. He was admirable in his decision to stay true to his Maddie but I felt for him because, in his 20s, Patrick still had the rest of his life in front of him. I could not imagine the daily pain and anguish Patrick and Maddie's family went through as they continued to have hope in their heart. Despite Patrick's heart being broken, I know that Maddie's family always made the right decision, for Maddie, themselves and also for Patrick. Patrick and Maddie's love story is a gentle reminder to enjoy the present and when the time comes, to let go of the past.
By letting go of the past, Patrick will be able to see if he can embrace his future. You don't need to be Sherlock Holmes to know that his future will lie with Tash but the hurdles along the way will make it anything but easy.
Cathryn's second novel is a wonderful for those who are in need of a life affirming read.
#AWWC number ???#
January 10, 2018
Cathryn Hein has written another superb story. This is a book that you won’t want to put down. It has everything in it, it will make you laugh and cry.
This rural romance follows the characters of Tash Ranger and Patrick Lawson. Tash is The Urban Ranger Food Blogger. Patrick is her best friend’s fiancé.
Tash has moved home to her family’s farm and has moved into her grandfather’s old flat, she is renovating the flat and cooking up a storm for her blog using locally grown produce, she wrangles in her grandfather to help with her video blogs of growing your own produce. He is such a wonderful character that you will adore.
Patrick remains loyal to his fiancé and he is keeping his promise to be with her forever. When Maddie’s horse that injured her is given to Tash he does everything in his power to protect Tash from coming to the same fate as Maddie. Will Patrick see that there is more to life than sitting in a room with a fiancé that cannot communicate with him.
Tash needs to decide whether to stay in Emu Springs and follow her heart of leave and follow her dream.
Now one thing I have to say is where are all the recipes for all the wonderful meals that were cooked in this book, besides them making me salivate while reading. I so wanted to try making them. I was praying there was some at the back of the book but no.
Tash Ranger needs to release her cookbook. I am sure I am not the only one who reads this and wants the recipes.
Cathryn Hein, you have pulled a rabbit out of the hat!!!
Published 18th December 2017 By Harlequin Enterprises (Australia) Pty Ltd
Thanks to Netgalley and Harlequin (Australia), TEEN/MIRA for a copy for my honest opinion and review.
This rural romance follows the characters of Tash Ranger and Patrick Lawson. Tash is The Urban Ranger Food Blogger. Patrick is her best friend’s fiancé.
Tash has moved home to her family’s farm and has moved into her grandfather’s old flat, she is renovating the flat and cooking up a storm for her blog using locally grown produce, she wrangles in her grandfather to help with her video blogs of growing your own produce. He is such a wonderful character that you will adore.
Patrick remains loyal to his fiancé and he is keeping his promise to be with her forever. When Maddie’s horse that injured her is given to Tash he does everything in his power to protect Tash from coming to the same fate as Maddie. Will Patrick see that there is more to life than sitting in a room with a fiancé that cannot communicate with him.
Tash needs to decide whether to stay in Emu Springs and follow her heart of leave and follow her dream.
Now one thing I have to say is where are all the recipes for all the wonderful meals that were cooked in this book, besides them making me salivate while reading. I so wanted to try making them. I was praying there was some at the back of the book but no.
Tash Ranger needs to release her cookbook. I am sure I am not the only one who reads this and wants the recipes.
Cathryn Hein, you have pulled a rabbit out of the hat!!!
Published 18th December 2017 By Harlequin Enterprises (Australia) Pty Ltd
Thanks to Netgalley and Harlequin (Australia), TEEN/MIRA for a copy for my honest opinion and review.
February 13, 2018
The Country Girl by Cathryn Hein was my book club of the month read. Did I like it? Yes, I did. Was it easy to read? Yes, it was. Was it predictable? Absolutely, so much so it was a little disappointing. Country girl moves to city, makes it big, moves back to the country and falls in love with the boy next door.
Tash Ranger is a country girl who moved to the city and became a food blogger, she returns home when she secures a cookbook deal and takes her blog from urban to rural. Tash has avoided going home to Castlereagh Road since she argued with her best friend Maddie when Maddie broke Tash and her boyfriend up believing firmly that he wasn’t right for her friend. The rift is made worse by the fact that Tash believes Maddie has it all – beauty and the fiancé that Tash has had a secret crush on for many years. Unfortunately, the rift between the girls becomes frozen in time when Maddie falls from her horse causing an irreparable brain injury.
Patrick Lawson, is Maddie’s fiancé and is deeply depressed with where his life is heading. He has loved Maddie for so long and with Maddie’s accident everything has gone pear shaped. Maddie and Patrick’s families have been trying to get Patrick to move on with his life but Patrick feels ‘stuck’, that he is letting down the one person he has cared deeply about for a long time. When Tash moves back home Patrick renews his friendship with her but something is different. Patrick starts to have feelings for Tash that he believes are wrong.
Thank you to Beauty and Lace and Harlequin Australia for allowing me the opportunity to read this book.
Tash Ranger is a country girl who moved to the city and became a food blogger, she returns home when she secures a cookbook deal and takes her blog from urban to rural. Tash has avoided going home to Castlereagh Road since she argued with her best friend Maddie when Maddie broke Tash and her boyfriend up believing firmly that he wasn’t right for her friend. The rift is made worse by the fact that Tash believes Maddie has it all – beauty and the fiancé that Tash has had a secret crush on for many years. Unfortunately, the rift between the girls becomes frozen in time when Maddie falls from her horse causing an irreparable brain injury.
Patrick Lawson, is Maddie’s fiancé and is deeply depressed with where his life is heading. He has loved Maddie for so long and with Maddie’s accident everything has gone pear shaped. Maddie and Patrick’s families have been trying to get Patrick to move on with his life but Patrick feels ‘stuck’, that he is letting down the one person he has cared deeply about for a long time. When Tash moves back home Patrick renews his friendship with her but something is different. Patrick starts to have feelings for Tash that he believes are wrong.
Thank you to Beauty and Lace and Harlequin Australia for allowing me the opportunity to read this book.
February 11, 2018
The Country Girl by Cathryn Hein is a lovely romantic novel, perfect to enjoy and lift ones spirits.
We are surrounded by many beautiful characters, their stories well developed and emotive. We read of the heartbreak of Maddy's accident, her parents struggles in caring for her and Patrick's love and devotion for the woman he planned to marry.
Tash is a country girl who has moved to the city for work and experiences the mixed emotions of returning home, to the people she loves but leaving the city life and friends she enjoyed. Will she settle back into country life, the change of pace, fresh air and childhood friendships? Will she forgive herself for the words that were left unsaid?
I was eager to read of the union between Tash & Patrick and became rather frustrated that they were taking so long, was there going to be a twist in the story at the end? So many teasing moments, such frustration! The relationship Tash has with her grandfather Star Pa is wonderful and so heartwarming; a truly beautiful relationship too.
The Country Girl is a feel good novel full of love, romance, tragedy, suspense and many giggles. A lovely read by this accomplished Australian author. Thank you to Mira, Harlequin Enterprises, Cathryn Hein and Beauty & Lace Book Club for the opportunity to read this lovely story.
We are surrounded by many beautiful characters, their stories well developed and emotive. We read of the heartbreak of Maddy's accident, her parents struggles in caring for her and Patrick's love and devotion for the woman he planned to marry.
Tash is a country girl who has moved to the city for work and experiences the mixed emotions of returning home, to the people she loves but leaving the city life and friends she enjoyed. Will she settle back into country life, the change of pace, fresh air and childhood friendships? Will she forgive herself for the words that were left unsaid?
I was eager to read of the union between Tash & Patrick and became rather frustrated that they were taking so long, was there going to be a twist in the story at the end? So many teasing moments, such frustration! The relationship Tash has with her grandfather Star Pa is wonderful and so heartwarming; a truly beautiful relationship too.
The Country Girl is a feel good novel full of love, romance, tragedy, suspense and many giggles. A lovely read by this accomplished Australian author. Thank you to Mira, Harlequin Enterprises, Cathryn Hein and Beauty & Lace Book Club for the opportunity to read this lovely story.
January 31, 2018
I received The Country Girl by Cathryn Hein as a Beauty and Lace Book Club Book to read and review.
The Country Girl by Cathryn Hein is a wonderfully easy book to read.
It is full of love and passion (not only sexual passion, passion for food!!!!),
promises and loyalty and the lengths some people will go to
when they make a promise,
even when keeping it is detrimental to their own happiness.
A country girl at heart moves to the city but when the chance pops up
to move back home, Tash jumps at it.
Her homecoming is not all roses.
Her best friend Maddie was seriously injured in an riding accident.
Patrick is also a childhood friend and Maddie's fiance.
Family and friends have been telling Patrick
he does not have to honour his promise to Maddie of a life together.
A promise made prior to her accident.
Can Patrick make the hardest descision of his life?
Can Tash admit her feelings for Patrick?
Can Tash and Patrick forge a life together without feeling guilt about Maddie?
Cathryn Hein has woven a beautiful story that will keep you spellbound.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book and laughed at times and will admit I shed a tear or two.
The Country Girl by Cathryn Hein is a wonderfully easy book to read.
It is full of love and passion (not only sexual passion, passion for food!!!!),
promises and loyalty and the lengths some people will go to
when they make a promise,
even when keeping it is detrimental to their own happiness.
A country girl at heart moves to the city but when the chance pops up
to move back home, Tash jumps at it.
Her homecoming is not all roses.
Her best friend Maddie was seriously injured in an riding accident.
Patrick is also a childhood friend and Maddie's fiance.
Family and friends have been telling Patrick
he does not have to honour his promise to Maddie of a life together.
A promise made prior to her accident.
Can Patrick make the hardest descision of his life?
Can Tash admit her feelings for Patrick?
Can Tash and Patrick forge a life together without feeling guilt about Maddie?
Cathryn Hein has woven a beautiful story that will keep you spellbound.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book and laughed at times and will admit I shed a tear or two.
April 3, 2018
This is an easy read and there is the added dimension of the brain damaged best friend and beloved girl friend of the two main characters. This gives you the catalyst for lots of guilt and doubts and soul searching etc. it's also very different for books such as this so it was a surprise
But!! There is no way this book is worth 4 let alone 5 stars. Where does that type of rating leave you when you actually come across something outstanding?
Sorry but feel good and predictable storylines such as this can't be rated so high. Besides that nothing momentous actually happens in this book.
The main character Tash falls flat for me. I cant decide if she's up herself or spoilt or a tad pathetic orca ridiculously nice person but I didn't really take to her.
I will read more by this author as I do enjoy rural settings but such high expectations resulted in a letdown with this one I'm afraid.
If you want a quick holiday read and are happy with a feel good romance then def go for it.
But!! There is no way this book is worth 4 let alone 5 stars. Where does that type of rating leave you when you actually come across something outstanding?
Sorry but feel good and predictable storylines such as this can't be rated so high. Besides that nothing momentous actually happens in this book.
The main character Tash falls flat for me. I cant decide if she's up herself or spoilt or a tad pathetic orca ridiculously nice person but I didn't really take to her.
I will read more by this author as I do enjoy rural settings but such high expectations resulted in a letdown with this one I'm afraid.
If you want a quick holiday read and are happy with a feel good romance then def go for it.
February 7, 2018
This is the first book I've read by Cathryn Hein and I thoroughly enjoyed it. Country Australia is always a good starting point for me and I loved the way the story flowed and the way Tash's career as a Food Writer and blogger was woven into the story. This was a beautiful love story on many levels but not soppy in any way.
The development of the less main characters was lovely, with Tash's Grandfather coming through as so real and delightful. The horrendous accident that left Maddie unresponsive but still alive, talking so much of Patrick's life source with it was incredibly well written as was the realisation that Patrick's life couldn't be at a standstill forever.
All the characters were sensitively written and although there was almost an inevitability to the conclusion it was still done with meaning and sensitivity. All in all a very enjoyable and satisfying read.
The development of the less main characters was lovely, with Tash's Grandfather coming through as so real and delightful. The horrendous accident that left Maddie unresponsive but still alive, talking so much of Patrick's life source with it was incredibly well written as was the realisation that Patrick's life couldn't be at a standstill forever.
All the characters were sensitively written and although there was almost an inevitability to the conclusion it was still done with meaning and sensitivity. All in all a very enjoyable and satisfying read.
July 7, 2018
I absolutely loved this book. I fell in love with both Tash and Patrick from the first chapter. Both such emotive characters, both facing troubles of their own, their lives changing whether they were ready or not. I shed a few tears reading this story. I liked that it took a while for the story to develop. Dealing with such a heartbreaking past, it would have seemed false and improper to rush the development of the characters' emotions and their relationships. I will be reading this one again, most likely quite a few times!
January 22, 2019
4 stars
I purchased the full length Australian novel The Country Girl by Cathryn Hein and this review was given freely.
Since his fiancee Maddy's riding accident and brain injured that left her minimally responsive, Patrick has been depressed and grieving until Maddy's guilt ridden friend the vibrant photographer and food blogger, Tash moves back home. Poignant and heart wrenching at times with a little deja vu thrown in but ultimately hopeful as Patrick and Maddy, with the help of family and friends, learn to let go of guilt and grief while accepting it is okay to love each other.
I purchased the full length Australian novel The Country Girl by Cathryn Hein and this review was given freely.
Since his fiancee Maddy's riding accident and brain injured that left her minimally responsive, Patrick has been depressed and grieving until Maddy's guilt ridden friend the vibrant photographer and food blogger, Tash moves back home. Poignant and heart wrenching at times with a little deja vu thrown in but ultimately hopeful as Patrick and Maddy, with the help of family and friends, learn to let go of guilt and grief while accepting it is okay to love each other.
June 9, 2019
This book had me hooked from the moment I started reading. An earnest page turner rather than a wanna be page turner with hooks at the end of the chapter. This delivered with hooks at the end of each paragraph and page. I devoured this in a day. The sexual tension between Maddy and Patrick was practically leaping off the page as I read.
Days later and I am still thinking about Patrick and Maddy proving that these characters were well developed and the story believable, relatable and enviable.
Days later and I am still thinking about Patrick and Maddy proving that these characters were well developed and the story believable, relatable and enviable.
January 10, 2018
I really enjoyed this novel! The main character Tash has such a positive outlook on life, she is very likeable. A sweet romance develops with the heart-sore Patrick, with some very sexy interactions thrown in for good measure. I enjoyed the country meets city vibe with the food blogger slant. My only regret is that I can't see any hint that the character Tash's recipe book will actually be produced - a real shame, as the recipes/food described sound totally mouthwatering!
September 8, 2018
Returning home to the country is bittersweet for Tash Ranger, her best friend is still out of reach, bedridden by a riding accident for which Tash feels responsible.
Patrick Lawson desperately hopes his fiancé will awaken however tries hard to remain true to their relationship despite everyone telling him to move on. Tash is familiar and safe, she knows what life use to be like however is ready to move on perhaps with her best friends fiancé.
Patrick Lawson desperately hopes his fiancé will awaken however tries hard to remain true to their relationship despite everyone telling him to move on. Tash is familiar and safe, she knows what life use to be like however is ready to move on perhaps with her best friends fiancé.
October 6, 2018
I loved this book. It was filled with so much emotion, based around a tragic circumstance. And seriously, a scene with a guy doing the dishes - I'm a goner :) Tash's career as a food Youtuber was so cool, and knowing how much work usually goes into a successful career like that, I enjoyed seeing it portrayed seriously and in detail. A delightful book.
April 26, 2020
I loved this book. It was filled with so much emotion, based around a tragic circumstance. And seriously, a scene with a guy doing the dishes - I'm a goner :) Tash's career as a food Youtuber was so cool, and knowing how much work usually goes into a successful career like that, I enjoyed seeing it portrayed seriously and in detail. A delightful book.
January 1, 2018
I found this a bit hard to get into at the start but once I got a few chapters in I was hooked. An epic story full of emotion, love and heartbreak. The part I enjoyed most was the whole "foodie" side of it and the descriptions of the food and recipes had me watering at the mouth!
February 7, 2018
What a fantastic book. I couldn't put it down. I loved reading about Tash and her cooking exploits. Patrick was such an honourable man, but would he ever get ver Maddy and move on. This was an enthralling book.
July 28, 2018
Another fabulous country romance by an Australian author. We are so lucky to have so many talented writers in this country, and this book is no exception. Great storyline with really strong lovable characters. Grab yourself a copy and bunker down for a great read!
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