What do you think?
Rate this book
Chalk Hill #1
Water Under The Bridge
Ella Davenport hasn’t been in a swimming pool since a bad decision ruined her chance of Olympic gold. So when Ella decides on a new career selling property, she chooses Chalk Hill. The country town is a long way from the water, with no pool in sight. Perfect!
Jake Honeychurch doesn’t want to sell his Nanna’s house, but circumstances force his hand. Listing the property with the rookie real estate agent in town, and asking a hefty price means it shouldn’t find a buyer. Perfect!
But determination and persistence are traits Jake admires, and Ella has them in spades. After all, no one ever made an Olympic team by being a quitter.
When news breaks of a proposed waterski park, a local developer starts sniffing around Honeychurch House. Ella’s first sale is so close she can taste it, until a sharp-eyed local recognises her.
Between sale negotiations with Jake that keep getting sidetracked, and a swimming pool committee hellbent on making a splash, Ella has more to contend with than kisses and chlorine.
Can she throw off the failures of the past and take the chance of a new start? Or will her dreams of a new life be washed away again?
Jake Honeychurch doesn’t want to sell his Nanna’s house, but circumstances force his hand. Listing the property with the rookie real estate agent in town, and asking a hefty price means it shouldn’t find a buyer. Perfect!
But determination and persistence are traits Jake admires, and Ella has them in spades. After all, no one ever made an Olympic team by being a quitter.
When news breaks of a proposed waterski park, a local developer starts sniffing around Honeychurch House. Ella’s first sale is so close she can taste it, until a sharp-eyed local recognises her.
Between sale negotiations with Jake that keep getting sidetracked, and a swimming pool committee hellbent on making a splash, Ella has more to contend with than kisses and chlorine.
Can she throw off the failures of the past and take the chance of a new start? Or will her dreams of a new life be washed away again?
352 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 19, 2018
59 people are currently reading
182 people want to read
About the author
Lily Malone
26 books183 followersLily Malone is a journalist and freelance writer who discovered after years of writing facts for a living, writing romance was much more fun.
Lily juggles writing with the needs of a young family, and when she isn’t writing, she likes gardening, walking, wine, and walking in gardens (sometimes with wine).
She loves to hear from readers and you can visit Lily at www.lilymalone.wordpress.com; email her at lilymalone@mail.com or connect with her here on Goodreads or find and like her page on Facebook, http://www.facebook.com/lily.lilymalone
Lily juggles writing with the needs of a young family, and when she isn’t writing, she likes gardening, walking, wine, and walking in gardens (sometimes with wine).
She loves to hear from readers and you can visit Lily at www.lilymalone.wordpress.com; email her at lilymalone@mail.com or connect with her here on Goodreads or find and like her page on Facebook, http://www.facebook.com/lily.lilymalone
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 64 reviews
February 11, 2018
4.5★s
Ella Davenport's first listing in the small town of Chalk Hill was a big old home she was keen to sell. The owner wouldn't return her calls, so she prepared the best she could, cleaning out the house - even enlisting her ten year old son Sam to help - much to his disgust.
Jake Honeychurch, owner of his Nanna's home therefore Ella's hope for her new career, didn't want to sell, but circumstances were against him. So when Ella had an offer well below the listed price, she wasn't surprised by the owner's response.
When Ella was recognised as an elite swimmer who'd been away from the circuit for ten years, then approached about the town's swimming pool being re-opened with it in mind for Ella to teach the town's children to swim, she was hesitant at first. But never a quitter, she decided to give it a go. Her number one priority was Sam of course; with her past threatening to get in the way of happiness, her determination to do the right thing rose to the surface.
What would happen to Ella and Sam's future? Would they be happy in Chalk Hill, or would they have to start again somewhere else?
Water Under the Bridge by Aussie author Lily Malone is a powerful story of love and loyalty. I especially enjoyed Erik's character and his unwavering support of Ella and Sam; Jake comes through as a kind and gentle man and Ella, her strength of character and determination shines (although occasionally she lacks belief in herself) A wonderfully complex novel, Water Under the Bridge was an excellent read which I highly recommend.
With thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my digital ARC to read and review.
Ella Davenport's first listing in the small town of Chalk Hill was a big old home she was keen to sell. The owner wouldn't return her calls, so she prepared the best she could, cleaning out the house - even enlisting her ten year old son Sam to help - much to his disgust.
Jake Honeychurch, owner of his Nanna's home therefore Ella's hope for her new career, didn't want to sell, but circumstances were against him. So when Ella had an offer well below the listed price, she wasn't surprised by the owner's response.
When Ella was recognised as an elite swimmer who'd been away from the circuit for ten years, then approached about the town's swimming pool being re-opened with it in mind for Ella to teach the town's children to swim, she was hesitant at first. But never a quitter, she decided to give it a go. Her number one priority was Sam of course; with her past threatening to get in the way of happiness, her determination to do the right thing rose to the surface.
What would happen to Ella and Sam's future? Would they be happy in Chalk Hill, or would they have to start again somewhere else?
Water Under the Bridge by Aussie author Lily Malone is a powerful story of love and loyalty. I especially enjoyed Erik's character and his unwavering support of Ella and Sam; Jake comes through as a kind and gentle man and Ella, her strength of character and determination shines (although occasionally she lacks belief in herself) A wonderfully complex novel, Water Under the Bridge was an excellent read which I highly recommend.
With thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my digital ARC to read and review.
October 31, 2018
When Ella Davenport's swimming career ended she decided it was time for a career change. Packing up their belongings Ella and her ten year old son, Sam move to the country town of Chalk Hill. Ella starts her new job working at the local Real Estate Office.
Ella's first job that she gets assigned to selling Irma Honeychurch's house. This house belongs to Jakes Nanna, Jake, who is a local farmer and owns the local hardware store. When Ella first meets Jake to discuss selling the house there seems to be a spark between them, but this won't help any when it comes to selling the house. Ella was really confident in selling the house, but Jake doesn't make it easy for her in not answering or returning her calls makes her job a lot harder. How do you sell a house if the owner really doesn't want to sell?
Will Ella sell the Honeychurch house or will her new career be over before it's started? Aussie author Lily Malone is one of my favourite authors and I know when I pick up one of her books I'm going to enjoy it. Looking forward to the next book in this series. Another well written and very enjoyable read. Highly recommended.
Ella's first job that she gets assigned to selling Irma Honeychurch's house. This house belongs to Jakes Nanna, Jake, who is a local farmer and owns the local hardware store. When Ella first meets Jake to discuss selling the house there seems to be a spark between them, but this won't help any when it comes to selling the house. Ella was really confident in selling the house, but Jake doesn't make it easy for her in not answering or returning her calls makes her job a lot harder. How do you sell a house if the owner really doesn't want to sell?
Will Ella sell the Honeychurch house or will her new career be over before it's started? Aussie author Lily Malone is one of my favourite authors and I know when I pick up one of her books I'm going to enjoy it. Looking forward to the next book in this series. Another well written and very enjoyable read. Highly recommended.
December 13, 2018
*www.onewomansbbr.wordpress.com
**4.5 stars**
Water Under the Bridge by Lily Malone, Author. (2018).
Ella was hoping to be an Olympic swimmer before something derailed those plans and she's never swum again. Now she is embarking on a real estate career in a small country town.
Jake doesn't really want to sell his nanna's house but the situation calls for him to list it. But he didn't expect the new real estate agent to be so determined to sell the house.
A local developer is interested in the house, locals work out Ella's past, Jake is distracting to the sale negotiations and the town wants to open the swimming pool again with a splash - can Ella take the chance of a new start in life?
I really enjoyed this Australian rural romance! It was an easy read with the right amount of drama to keep the story moving along and me interested in how it would all end. Ella and Jake were both interesting characters with intriguing pasts that came with baggage to their current attraction - just like reality, their fledgling relationship has it's ups and downs. There were a few 'sexy' scenes (nothing too dirty) that gave me a giggle while I was reading. Ella's ex Erik was a great very likeable addition to the story, and the other characters that made up the community of this fictional small town are all quite realistic and easily imaginable.
I'm looking forward to reading the rest of the planned 'Chalk Hill' trilogy in the future!
**4.5 stars**
Water Under the Bridge by Lily Malone, Author. (2018).
Ella was hoping to be an Olympic swimmer before something derailed those plans and she's never swum again. Now she is embarking on a real estate career in a small country town.
Jake doesn't really want to sell his nanna's house but the situation calls for him to list it. But he didn't expect the new real estate agent to be so determined to sell the house.
A local developer is interested in the house, locals work out Ella's past, Jake is distracting to the sale negotiations and the town wants to open the swimming pool again with a splash - can Ella take the chance of a new start in life?
I really enjoyed this Australian rural romance! It was an easy read with the right amount of drama to keep the story moving along and me interested in how it would all end. Ella and Jake were both interesting characters with intriguing pasts that came with baggage to their current attraction - just like reality, their fledgling relationship has it's ups and downs. There were a few 'sexy' scenes (nothing too dirty) that gave me a giggle while I was reading. Ella's ex Erik was a great very likeable addition to the story, and the other characters that made up the community of this fictional small town are all quite realistic and easily imaginable.
I'm looking forward to reading the rest of the planned 'Chalk Hill' trilogy in the future!
March 16, 2018
Water Under The Bridge is about following your dreams and accept love on the way. Ella Davenport need a change after her marriage ended and the lost of her self-esteem she decided to move to Chalk Hill to start a new life and career. Jake Honeychurch did not want to sell his Nanna's house, but his brother Abel wanted it sold. Jake decided to give Ella Davenport the contract to sell Nanna's house. However, things did not go the way Jake Honeychurch wanted. The readers of Water Under The Bridge will continue to follow Jake Honeychurch and Ella Davenport to see what happens.
I enjoyed reading Water Under The Bridge. I do like Lily Malone writing style and the way Lily describes her settings. Water Under The Bridge was a book that was easy to read, and you become engaged with the plot and the characters from the start. I do love Lily Malone's characters and the way they intertwined with each other.
The readers of Water Under The Bridge will learn about being professional swimming and the problems that that can cause everyone who is involved. Also, the readers of Water Under The Bridge will see the harm people who scam other people. Water Under The Bridge highlights the benefits that community cooperation can achieve in a small rural community.
I recommend this book.
I enjoyed reading Water Under The Bridge. I do like Lily Malone writing style and the way Lily describes her settings. Water Under The Bridge was a book that was easy to read, and you become engaged with the plot and the characters from the start. I do love Lily Malone's characters and the way they intertwined with each other.
The readers of Water Under The Bridge will learn about being professional swimming and the problems that that can cause everyone who is involved. Also, the readers of Water Under The Bridge will see the harm people who scam other people. Water Under The Bridge highlights the benefits that community cooperation can achieve in a small rural community.
I recommend this book.
March 25, 2018
*https://mrsbbookreviews.wordpress.com
4.5 stars
West Australian author Lily Malone joins the band of talented fellow West Australian rural fiction novelists, who are all doing great things for contemporary romance. I was first introduced to Malone’s work when I read The Goodbye Ride back in 2014. It has been a pleasure to observe Malone’s writing evolve and her latest, Water Under the Bridge, is a novel that left me in awe. I admired Malone’s combination of solid characterisation, spectacular setting descriptions and the all embracing plot.
Ella Davenport is the feature protagonist in Water Under the Bridge, which is the first novel in a planned three book series, set in the WA small country town of Chalk Hill. Ella loves swimming but a terrible decision made in haste shot down any chances Ella had of making it on the professional swimming circuit. Trying to move on from career suicide, Ella decides to take a chance on a new form of employment, in real estate, in the rural based area of Chalk Hill. Ella knows the remote location of Chalk Hill means she can stay in hiding, no one will know of her Olympic dreams and there is a distinct lack of a swimming pool in the vicinity! Linked to Ella’s story is Jake Honeychurch’s journey. A property sale, Ella’s first, allows these two souls to come together. However, problems come in the form of a property developer, who sets their sights on the property deal Ella is trying to clinch. At the same time, the past Ella has tried to conceal is revealed by a local. Ella’s new life in Chalk Hill becomes one complicated mess, as she must deal with one issue after another. Will it send her running or will Ella find peace at Chalk Hill?
Nothing pleases me more than a new contemporary rural fiction release with romance elements from an author from my home state of WA. I’ve been very fond of the writing of Lily Malone, the author of Water Under the Bridge, for some time now and with this latest book, I feel she easily slides into the ranks of authors such as Rachael Johns, Fiona Palmer and Jennie Jones. Malone’s writing is effortless and so is her ability to deftly combine all the elements that make a successful rural fiction novel tick.
In Chalk Hill, the core setting of Water Under the Bridge, Malone has issued this reader with a familiar setting, which immediately served to propel me to this novel. Although I haven’t had the pleasure of visiting the exact location featured in Water Under the Bridge, I am familiar with the surrounding region. Lily Malone gets all the finer details of her setting just right in this novel. The locale came across as vivid and colourful. The community that resides in this small town are a likeable and realistic bunch. I loved the sense of community participation and mutual support that came out of this delightful small town. I’m so glad we get a chance to revisit the people and the locale of Chalk Hill again soon, via future books in this series.
Malone’s strength does lie in her characterisation skills, they are refined. I like the way in which Ella is represented. As the book progresses, we receive a thorough breakdown of Ella’s past, her achievements, her highs and her low points. I admit to being completely absorbed in her character journey, from the very start, to the closing moments of this novel. I liked how Malone fleshed out Ella’s character, showing us her vulnerable moments, her flaws and her admirable traits. Ella isn’t perfect, but who is? That is what is just so great about Malone’s style, it is so grounded. In Jake, the hero of the story, we have a handsome and genuine lead. I also enjoyed gleaning vital details on Jake’s background and I enjoyed following the growth of his character as the book progressed. Other notable characters featured in Water Under the Bridge include Erik, Ella’s loyal ex and Ella’s son Sam. Both make solid contributions to the path of this novel and are well constructed. Rounding off the character set are a bevy of community members, who form the foundation of Chalk Hill. Any reader will find it hard to resist developing a connection to this small town community.
Romance is definitely the order of the day in Water Under the Bridge and this is an area where Lily Malone truly shows us what she is made of. I really liked how Ella and Jake did have a great immediate attraction thing going on. It never felt forced or contrived. Ella and Jake’s pathway to love is a little bumpy, with a few roadblocks thrown in to liven things up. There was also a fair amount of swaying between feelings for this couple, which is understandable given the strains, as well as baggage they have brought into their potential relationship. If you like a little sizzle in your rural romance novels then this one will more than satisfy. It was in keeping of the style of the book and the relationship, which is always important to me as a reader when love scenes are involved!
Malone chooses to put the spotlight on a few themes in Water Under the Bridge. There is a good exploration of love, loyalty, emotions, finding your calling in life, starting over, family issues and developing an affinity to a community. Malone also opened my eyes up to the very fascinating professional swimming circuit at the Olympic level and the contentions at the heart of this sport. Equally, I enjoyed learning a bit more about an everyday career, a property sales consultant, operating in a rural based area, it was quite interesting! In addition, Malone draws our attention to the lack of resources and infrastructure in small country based towns such as Chalk Hill, the rural community town featured in Water Under the Bridge.
It is with delight that I recommend Water Under the Bridge to all readers, but those who have a passion for small town rural fiction novels, especially those with a healthy dose of romance, will revel in this new release. I look forward to revisiting the folk of Chalk Hill in the not too distant future.
*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...
Water Under the Bridge is book #26 of the Australian Women Writers Challenge
4.5 stars
West Australian author Lily Malone joins the band of talented fellow West Australian rural fiction novelists, who are all doing great things for contemporary romance. I was first introduced to Malone’s work when I read The Goodbye Ride back in 2014. It has been a pleasure to observe Malone’s writing evolve and her latest, Water Under the Bridge, is a novel that left me in awe. I admired Malone’s combination of solid characterisation, spectacular setting descriptions and the all embracing plot.
Ella Davenport is the feature protagonist in Water Under the Bridge, which is the first novel in a planned three book series, set in the WA small country town of Chalk Hill. Ella loves swimming but a terrible decision made in haste shot down any chances Ella had of making it on the professional swimming circuit. Trying to move on from career suicide, Ella decides to take a chance on a new form of employment, in real estate, in the rural based area of Chalk Hill. Ella knows the remote location of Chalk Hill means she can stay in hiding, no one will know of her Olympic dreams and there is a distinct lack of a swimming pool in the vicinity! Linked to Ella’s story is Jake Honeychurch’s journey. A property sale, Ella’s first, allows these two souls to come together. However, problems come in the form of a property developer, who sets their sights on the property deal Ella is trying to clinch. At the same time, the past Ella has tried to conceal is revealed by a local. Ella’s new life in Chalk Hill becomes one complicated mess, as she must deal with one issue after another. Will it send her running or will Ella find peace at Chalk Hill?
Nothing pleases me more than a new contemporary rural fiction release with romance elements from an author from my home state of WA. I’ve been very fond of the writing of Lily Malone, the author of Water Under the Bridge, for some time now and with this latest book, I feel she easily slides into the ranks of authors such as Rachael Johns, Fiona Palmer and Jennie Jones. Malone’s writing is effortless and so is her ability to deftly combine all the elements that make a successful rural fiction novel tick.
In Chalk Hill, the core setting of Water Under the Bridge, Malone has issued this reader with a familiar setting, which immediately served to propel me to this novel. Although I haven’t had the pleasure of visiting the exact location featured in Water Under the Bridge, I am familiar with the surrounding region. Lily Malone gets all the finer details of her setting just right in this novel. The locale came across as vivid and colourful. The community that resides in this small town are a likeable and realistic bunch. I loved the sense of community participation and mutual support that came out of this delightful small town. I’m so glad we get a chance to revisit the people and the locale of Chalk Hill again soon, via future books in this series.
Malone’s strength does lie in her characterisation skills, they are refined. I like the way in which Ella is represented. As the book progresses, we receive a thorough breakdown of Ella’s past, her achievements, her highs and her low points. I admit to being completely absorbed in her character journey, from the very start, to the closing moments of this novel. I liked how Malone fleshed out Ella’s character, showing us her vulnerable moments, her flaws and her admirable traits. Ella isn’t perfect, but who is? That is what is just so great about Malone’s style, it is so grounded. In Jake, the hero of the story, we have a handsome and genuine lead. I also enjoyed gleaning vital details on Jake’s background and I enjoyed following the growth of his character as the book progressed. Other notable characters featured in Water Under the Bridge include Erik, Ella’s loyal ex and Ella’s son Sam. Both make solid contributions to the path of this novel and are well constructed. Rounding off the character set are a bevy of community members, who form the foundation of Chalk Hill. Any reader will find it hard to resist developing a connection to this small town community.
Romance is definitely the order of the day in Water Under the Bridge and this is an area where Lily Malone truly shows us what she is made of. I really liked how Ella and Jake did have a great immediate attraction thing going on. It never felt forced or contrived. Ella and Jake’s pathway to love is a little bumpy, with a few roadblocks thrown in to liven things up. There was also a fair amount of swaying between feelings for this couple, which is understandable given the strains, as well as baggage they have brought into their potential relationship. If you like a little sizzle in your rural romance novels then this one will more than satisfy. It was in keeping of the style of the book and the relationship, which is always important to me as a reader when love scenes are involved!
Malone chooses to put the spotlight on a few themes in Water Under the Bridge. There is a good exploration of love, loyalty, emotions, finding your calling in life, starting over, family issues and developing an affinity to a community. Malone also opened my eyes up to the very fascinating professional swimming circuit at the Olympic level and the contentions at the heart of this sport. Equally, I enjoyed learning a bit more about an everyday career, a property sales consultant, operating in a rural based area, it was quite interesting! In addition, Malone draws our attention to the lack of resources and infrastructure in small country based towns such as Chalk Hill, the rural community town featured in Water Under the Bridge.
It is with delight that I recommend Water Under the Bridge to all readers, but those who have a passion for small town rural fiction novels, especially those with a healthy dose of romance, will revel in this new release. I look forward to revisiting the folk of Chalk Hill in the not too distant future.
*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...
Water Under the Bridge is book #26 of the Australian Women Writers Challenge
February 25, 2018
I don’t know how this happened but this is the first book I have read of Ms Malone’s but it won’t be the last, this one was such a great story I loved the setting what a town and the characters come to life on the pages, I felt very comfortable in Chalk Hill and look forward to more in this series.
Ella Davenport has decided that it is time for her she was so close to becoming an Olympian swimmer years before but gave all of that up for her son Sam, she stays away from the water altogether and now she has moved to the small town of Chalk Hill with a new career in real estate. She has secrets that she has kept for years and even her ex-husband doesn’t know the full truth, but with her first house to sell Ella meets gorgeous Jake Honeychurch and her emotions are running amuck.
Jake Honeychurch has two brothers and has grown up in this town he runs the family farm and hardware store and he is left in charge of selling his Nanna’s house, a house that means a lot to him and he is not overly keen on selling but he needs to put it on the market this brings him to Ella new to her job at the local real estate and Jake chooses her to sell the house maybe this was fate. Jake learns that Ella is one determined Lady and he is drawn to her and her son in a way he never thought to happen again.
This is a story that has a lot going on besides the glorious journey to a beautiful HEA there are secrets that need to be talked about from both Ella and Jake and I loved getting to know them they are such a fabulous couple, of course there are ups and downs along the way true love never runs smoothly and making up is such fun. This story is moving and emotional and a thoroughly good read I loved Jake what a hero and Ella so very vulnerable but also so strong thank you MS Malone I loved it and look forward to Abe’s story.
Ella Davenport has decided that it is time for her she was so close to becoming an Olympian swimmer years before but gave all of that up for her son Sam, she stays away from the water altogether and now she has moved to the small town of Chalk Hill with a new career in real estate. She has secrets that she has kept for years and even her ex-husband doesn’t know the full truth, but with her first house to sell Ella meets gorgeous Jake Honeychurch and her emotions are running amuck.
Jake Honeychurch has two brothers and has grown up in this town he runs the family farm and hardware store and he is left in charge of selling his Nanna’s house, a house that means a lot to him and he is not overly keen on selling but he needs to put it on the market this brings him to Ella new to her job at the local real estate and Jake chooses her to sell the house maybe this was fate. Jake learns that Ella is one determined Lady and he is drawn to her and her son in a way he never thought to happen again.
This is a story that has a lot going on besides the glorious journey to a beautiful HEA there are secrets that need to be talked about from both Ella and Jake and I loved getting to know them they are such a fabulous couple, of course there are ups and downs along the way true love never runs smoothly and making up is such fun. This story is moving and emotional and a thoroughly good read I loved Jake what a hero and Ella so very vulnerable but also so strong thank you MS Malone I loved it and look forward to Abe’s story.
March 8, 2018
Lily Malone’s new offering is the first in a trilogy of books which will feature characters from the Western Australian town of Chalk Hill. Chalk Hill, although fictional, is pretty much the typical small Aussie town. The one thing that they all have and it’s missing, however, is a public swimming pool, which is the exact reason our heroine, Ella Davenport, moves there from Perth.
Ella is an ex-champion swimmer. She won national titles and only missed out on going to the Olympics because she was pregnant. Her son, Sam, is now 10 and she’s decided it’s time to pull on her big girl’s panties and become a strong independent woman -- as long as she can do this without a pool or swimming, that is.
Her move to the country also includes a change of career (to real estate) and separating from her husband, Erik, who is also her former coach and remains a father/older brother figure. In Chalk Hill she meets Jake, a local farmer and hardware store owner and the man who will, of course, try and win her heart.
As leading couples go, Ella and Jake were okay although they seemed to have very little conflict. They talk business (Ella is attempting to sell Jake’s grandmother’s house), the town (everyone who is everyone hangs out at the bowls club), and Sam. Other than that they just think lustful thoughts. (I must stress this isn’t in the league of 50 Shades but it does feel like Jack and Ella spend more time thinking about secky times with each other than thinking about the stimulating conversation they share.)
Ella is traumatised by her memories of swimming. To her, she relates the water with her pushy parents, school bullies, jealous teammates, and missed medal opportunities. I did like that there was a point of her conflict but I think Malone should have had Ella face those real reasons instead of simply having Ella sort things out by (literally) jumping back in at the deep end. Some scenes with her parents reaching closure would have been good though.
I didn’t like the way Malone included Ella’s swimming hang-up into Sam’s problems, however. Even if I could imagine a small Aussie town without a swimming pool, I could never imagine any 10 year old Aussie kid having such limited time in a swimming pool. Every school has compulsory swim lessons, for starters, and did he never get invited to a party at a pool or beach? I’m sorry, I just don’t think it would be that easy to avoid swimming in one of the hotter states of Australia.
Sam’s characterisation when it came to his age annoyed me too. I have an almost 12 year old and in the beginning of the book Sam was doing things I could never imagine my son doing even today, let alone two years ago. Then, later in the book, Sam was acting like a kid half his age. It unnerved me a little.
I also found Ella’s relationship with Erik a little unnerving. For a time I was confused as to whether or not they’d ever consummated their marriage. One assumes they must have or else Ella would have been much more ignorant during the intimate scenes she shares with Jake. This just seemed to highlight the only interest Ella has in Jake is lust because she claims Erik is her best friend and yet wants to divorce him.
Actually Erik was my favourite character of the book. I want to know more about his background in Germany, how he lost his arm and I especially want to know if he finally finds a woman who will love him like he should be loved. Please, please, please write this one Lily!
Alas, I assume the two other books in the series will instead be about Jake’s brothers, Abe and Brix, and I’ll be destined to write Erik’s story in my own head.
Look, I know I complained a little about this book but I must stress that my patience really runs thin with contemporary rural romance. I keep giving the genre another go and thinking I’ll eventually be won over. Maybe one day… Lots of people adore chook lit, however, and if you’re one of them I would recommend this book. There’s nothing wrong with Malone’s writing and I’m sure most readers would give Water Under the Bridge a higher rating.
For me, though it wasn’t exactly the right book at the right time and I’ll go for a 3 out of 5
Ella is an ex-champion swimmer. She won national titles and only missed out on going to the Olympics because she was pregnant. Her son, Sam, is now 10 and she’s decided it’s time to pull on her big girl’s panties and become a strong independent woman -- as long as she can do this without a pool or swimming, that is.
Her move to the country also includes a change of career (to real estate) and separating from her husband, Erik, who is also her former coach and remains a father/older brother figure. In Chalk Hill she meets Jake, a local farmer and hardware store owner and the man who will, of course, try and win her heart.
As leading couples go, Ella and Jake were okay although they seemed to have very little conflict. They talk business (Ella is attempting to sell Jake’s grandmother’s house), the town (everyone who is everyone hangs out at the bowls club), and Sam. Other than that they just think lustful thoughts. (I must stress this isn’t in the league of 50 Shades but it does feel like Jack and Ella spend more time thinking about secky times with each other than thinking about the stimulating conversation they share.)
Ella is traumatised by her memories of swimming. To her, she relates the water with her pushy parents, school bullies, jealous teammates, and missed medal opportunities. I did like that there was a point of her conflict but I think Malone should have had Ella face those real reasons instead of simply having Ella sort things out by (literally) jumping back in at the deep end. Some scenes with her parents reaching closure would have been good though.
I didn’t like the way Malone included Ella’s swimming hang-up into Sam’s problems, however. Even if I could imagine a small Aussie town without a swimming pool, I could never imagine any 10 year old Aussie kid having such limited time in a swimming pool. Every school has compulsory swim lessons, for starters, and did he never get invited to a party at a pool or beach? I’m sorry, I just don’t think it would be that easy to avoid swimming in one of the hotter states of Australia.
Sam’s characterisation when it came to his age annoyed me too. I have an almost 12 year old and in the beginning of the book Sam was doing things I could never imagine my son doing even today, let alone two years ago. Then, later in the book, Sam was acting like a kid half his age. It unnerved me a little.
I also found Ella’s relationship with Erik a little unnerving. For a time I was confused as to whether or not they’d ever consummated their marriage. One assumes they must have or else Ella would have been much more ignorant during the intimate scenes she shares with Jake. This just seemed to highlight the only interest Ella has in Jake is lust because she claims Erik is her best friend and yet wants to divorce him.
Actually Erik was my favourite character of the book. I want to know more about his background in Germany, how he lost his arm and I especially want to know if he finally finds a woman who will love him like he should be loved. Please, please, please write this one Lily!
Alas, I assume the two other books in the series will instead be about Jake’s brothers, Abe and Brix, and I’ll be destined to write Erik’s story in my own head.
Look, I know I complained a little about this book but I must stress that my patience really runs thin with contemporary rural romance. I keep giving the genre another go and thinking I’ll eventually be won over. Maybe one day… Lots of people adore chook lit, however, and if you’re one of them I would recommend this book. There’s nothing wrong with Malone’s writing and I’m sure most readers would give Water Under the Bridge a higher rating.
For me, though it wasn’t exactly the right book at the right time and I’ll go for a 3 out of 5
March 7, 2018
4.5*
There's a lot I could say about Lily Malone as a writer - starting with the fact that I admire the way she crafts characters and plots, drawing them together in an engaging and often sassy romps of the heart. Her latest release, Water Under the Bridge, does all that and more. A story of two people drawn together by the sale of a house, both with different motives for being where they are at when their hearts collide, it's romantic without being soppy, warm-hearted without being soft. Jake and Ella have chemistry and conflict in spades and their push-pull relationship seesaws throughout the book, making the reader ache for them to get it together as much as ... well, as much as they do, deep down.
Their story is set in another favourite setting for me - near the Porongorups in Western Australia - having been there less than six months ago, it felt familiar (which is always a good thing for me). A story of moving on, belonging, and opening hearts, Water Under the Bridge is a novel that I've been waiting to read for ages ... and it was absolutely worth the wait.
Disclaimer: The writer is a good friend and we are in a writing accountability group together. However, this review is my honest response to her final work.
There's a lot I could say about Lily Malone as a writer - starting with the fact that I admire the way she crafts characters and plots, drawing them together in an engaging and often sassy romps of the heart. Her latest release, Water Under the Bridge, does all that and more. A story of two people drawn together by the sale of a house, both with different motives for being where they are at when their hearts collide, it's romantic without being soppy, warm-hearted without being soft. Jake and Ella have chemistry and conflict in spades and their push-pull relationship seesaws throughout the book, making the reader ache for them to get it together as much as ... well, as much as they do, deep down.
Their story is set in another favourite setting for me - near the Porongorups in Western Australia - having been there less than six months ago, it felt familiar (which is always a good thing for me). A story of moving on, belonging, and opening hearts, Water Under the Bridge is a novel that I've been waiting to read for ages ... and it was absolutely worth the wait.
Disclaimer: The writer is a good friend and we are in a writing accountability group together. However, this review is my honest response to her final work.
December 19, 2018
Loved this story and am looking forward to revisiting Chalk Hill in the next 2 books!
July 28, 2022
It's taken me around a year to get around to reading Lily Malone's Chalk Hill series. And oh boy, the first book is incredibly sweet!
The story focuses on the romance between Ella Davenport and Jake Honeychurch. Ella and her son Sam are newcomers to town, and the pair meet when Ella is selling Jake's grandmother's house. It's not exactly love at first sight- in fact Ella finds Jake irritating! Still, it doesn't take long at all before the two of them have fallen hard for each other! Honestly, it's a blink and miss it moment for exactly WHEN it happens!
Whilst I did like the residents a lot, I felt that they kind of used Ella's fame and expertise to get the town pool up and running again. Still, the oldies provided some very funny comic relief!
Ella's ex husband/ex-coach Erik was a lovely addition. Whilst he isn't Sam's father, it's beautiful how he thinks of Sam as his own son, something that Jake replicates. That boy is so lucky to have two father figures! As for his biological father, what a smug piece of work he is. Really didn't like him at all.
I've learnt that the first three books in this series are about the Honeychurch brothers (Jake, Abel and Brix). I'm looking forward to reading restaurant owner Abel's story next time!
🌟🌟🌟🌟💫/5
The story focuses on the romance between Ella Davenport and Jake Honeychurch. Ella and her son Sam are newcomers to town, and the pair meet when Ella is selling Jake's grandmother's house. It's not exactly love at first sight- in fact Ella finds Jake irritating! Still, it doesn't take long at all before the two of them have fallen hard for each other! Honestly, it's a blink and miss it moment for exactly WHEN it happens!
Whilst I did like the residents a lot, I felt that they kind of used Ella's fame and expertise to get the town pool up and running again. Still, the oldies provided some very funny comic relief!
Ella's ex husband/ex-coach Erik was a lovely addition. Whilst he isn't Sam's father, it's beautiful how he thinks of Sam as his own son, something that Jake replicates. That boy is so lucky to have two father figures! As for his biological father, what a smug piece of work he is. Really didn't like him at all.
I've learnt that the first three books in this series are about the Honeychurch brothers (Jake, Abel and Brix). I'm looking forward to reading restaurant owner Abel's story next time!
🌟🌟🌟🌟💫/5
February 4, 2020
Water Under the Bridge is the first book in the Chalk Hill series and it was lovely. Just lovely.
A well written story that I was drawn to from the start and pretty much kept me hooked until the end.
Featuring a German character and traditional German food, a picturesque setting and a beaut romance…what’s not to love about that!
Page 341 is priceless - love Harvey and Bob.
PS. I was surprised to read that one of the characters is German, a very nice surprise indeed, mostly I find that a German character is featured in books when they’re set in Germany. There is so much more to learn about Erik, would love a story about him otherwise I feel I’m left hanging, can’t add a character with a heart of gold, one arm, a swimming coach, etc, to just have him vanish into thin air. And Spätzle. The author mentioned Spätzle. I’m shocked as I’m sure not many people have heard of that food item, it put a huge smile on my face as the only time I hear about Spätzle is when my cousin (over in Florida) posts pics of this yum yum food on FB. It’s one of my favourite German cuisines.
Book No.3 #20Backlistin2020 Challenge
POPSUGAR Reading Challenge 2020: A book by an author with flora or fauna in their name
A well written story that I was drawn to from the start and pretty much kept me hooked until the end.
Featuring a German character and traditional German food, a picturesque setting and a beaut romance…what’s not to love about that!
Page 341 is priceless - love Harvey and Bob.
PS. I was surprised to read that one of the characters is German, a very nice surprise indeed, mostly I find that a German character is featured in books when they’re set in Germany. There is so much more to learn about Erik, would love a story about him otherwise I feel I’m left hanging, can’t add a character with a heart of gold, one arm, a swimming coach, etc, to just have him vanish into thin air. And Spätzle. The author mentioned Spätzle. I’m shocked as I’m sure not many people have heard of that food item, it put a huge smile on my face as the only time I hear about Spätzle is when my cousin (over in Florida) posts pics of this yum yum food on FB. It’s one of my favourite German cuisines.
Book No.3 #20Backlistin2020 Challenge
POPSUGAR Reading Challenge 2020: A book by an author with flora or fauna in their name
February 13, 2018
Ella wants a new start for herself and her 10 year old son Sam. Hopefully Chalk Hill is the place to do it. Looking for a new direction before moving, she had completed a real estate certificate. Irma Honeychurch’s house is her first listing but it’s not going too well.....that’s maybe because her grandson Jake Honeychurch doesn’t really want it sold.
I found this to be an enjoyable, gentle book about moving on and finding your place in life and a community. I liked Ella and her unconventional relationship with Erik and his absolute support of her choices and Sam. And of course Jake...well, he was just a honey! There was a little bit of tension in the story but I didn’t find there was a huge angst moment, which I was appreciative of.
At the end of the book, there was a hint that the town of Chalk Hill would be revisited in some further books and as there were a few characters of the town introduced in this one, I look forward to reading more.
Thank you to Netgalley and the Publisher for a copy to read.
I found this to be an enjoyable, gentle book about moving on and finding your place in life and a community. I liked Ella and her unconventional relationship with Erik and his absolute support of her choices and Sam. And of course Jake...well, he was just a honey! There was a little bit of tension in the story but I didn’t find there was a huge angst moment, which I was appreciative of.
At the end of the book, there was a hint that the town of Chalk Hill would be revisited in some further books and as there were a few characters of the town introduced in this one, I look forward to reading more.
Thank you to Netgalley and the Publisher for a copy to read.
January 29, 2020
I haven't read a Lily Malone book before, but I'm glad I have now.
Water Under the Bridge, the first in the Chalk Hill series was a great read. With likeable characters, a beautiful setting and an engaging storyline, it was hard to put down. Lily's writing is descriptive, easy to follow and allow the reader to form a vivid picture throughout the narrative.
Thoroughly enjoyed it and look forward to reading more from Lily.
Water Under the Bridge, the first in the Chalk Hill series was a great read. With likeable characters, a beautiful setting and an engaging storyline, it was hard to put down. Lily's writing is descriptive, easy to follow and allow the reader to form a vivid picture throughout the narrative.
Thoroughly enjoyed it and look forward to reading more from Lily.
April 8, 2018
Ella needs a fresh start and selling property in Chalk Hill should be a perfect opportunity. She's a single mother and her son Sam is having trouble adjusting to his new surroundings. Ella wants to take care of herself for a change, but her son isn't happy they left the city. Ella's first assignment is selling the house Jake's grandmother left him and his brothers. Jake's asking price is outrageous, but she's been given a chance and she's going to try to sell the place. However, is Jake really interested in selling the house or does he secretly want to keep it?
Jake loves Chalk Hill and life is even better now that Ella has moved into town. The former professional swimmer fascinates him and because she's selling his house there's plenty of time to get to know her. Ella has a past and she's hiding something, Jake would love for her to trust him. Will he manage to win her over? What will happen when Ella discovers his motives behind the high price of the house? Will her dreams be shattered just like they were many years ago or will Ella find happiness in Chalk Hill after all?
Water Under the Bridge is a wonderful romantic story. Ella used to lead a safe and secure life, which was fine, but there was nothing that made her heart beat faster. She wants to achieve something on her own, which means selling a house, having some success that isn't determined by others. Her swimming career never took off because of Sam, but that was a sacrifice she was happy to make. After a difficult time she deserves some happiness and I kept hoping she'd find it with Jake. He's a good man. Even though he doesn't share his motives when it comes to the house, he only wants the best for Ella and he genuinely likes her and Sam. Jake and Ella have a beautiful connection and I couldn't turn the pages quickly enough to find out if they'd get the chance to build a close relationship.
Chalk Hill is a fantastic setting. Lily Malone's gorgeous descriptions of this beautiful place are making it come to life in a delightful way. I was instantly intrigued by the inhabitants of the small town and couldn't wait to find out more about Ella's new surroundings. She fits right in, which gives the story a great feelgood factor. Lily Malone combines serious topics, that she describes in a great emphatic way, with a mesmerizing story about true love. Water Under the Bridge is charming, sweet and captivating.
Jake loves Chalk Hill and life is even better now that Ella has moved into town. The former professional swimmer fascinates him and because she's selling his house there's plenty of time to get to know her. Ella has a past and she's hiding something, Jake would love for her to trust him. Will he manage to win her over? What will happen when Ella discovers his motives behind the high price of the house? Will her dreams be shattered just like they were many years ago or will Ella find happiness in Chalk Hill after all?
Water Under the Bridge is a wonderful romantic story. Ella used to lead a safe and secure life, which was fine, but there was nothing that made her heart beat faster. She wants to achieve something on her own, which means selling a house, having some success that isn't determined by others. Her swimming career never took off because of Sam, but that was a sacrifice she was happy to make. After a difficult time she deserves some happiness and I kept hoping she'd find it with Jake. He's a good man. Even though he doesn't share his motives when it comes to the house, he only wants the best for Ella and he genuinely likes her and Sam. Jake and Ella have a beautiful connection and I couldn't turn the pages quickly enough to find out if they'd get the chance to build a close relationship.
Chalk Hill is a fantastic setting. Lily Malone's gorgeous descriptions of this beautiful place are making it come to life in a delightful way. I was instantly intrigued by the inhabitants of the small town and couldn't wait to find out more about Ella's new surroundings. She fits right in, which gives the story a great feelgood factor. Lily Malone combines serious topics, that she describes in a great emphatic way, with a mesmerizing story about true love. Water Under the Bridge is charming, sweet and captivating.
February 21, 2018
An absolutely gorgeous read. (Further review to come)
March 26, 2018
I was very lucky to win a copy of Water Under The Bridge on Facebook from Lily Malone's Author page. Thank you for this opportunity Lily as I loved reading your book. It was my first of your books to read and surely will not be the last .
A young Mum, Ella Devonport , who was a professional Swimmer moves to Western Australia to a country town of Chalk Hill, with her 10 year old son Sam. She has separated from her husband. She takes on a new profession in Real Estate and her first assignment was to sell Irma Honeychurch's house.
Ella meets Irma Honeychurch's grandson Jake, who is a local farmer and a hardware store owner. There is an instant spark between Jake and Ella. The selling of the house does not go well as Jake has no plans to sell the house. Even Irma's pet cockatiel Percy also loved the house.
Her ex-husband and swimming coach was a constant support and inspiration in Ella's and Sam's life. I was sad that they did not get back together. Though Jake is also a wonderful and warm person and he wanted to see Ella happy. Ella's
love for swimming is also seen in her naming her cockatiel's after her favourite swimmer Kieren Perkins as Perkins I, Perkins II and Perkins III .
Love storiesthat are set in small community country towns and enjoyed getting to know most of the Chalk Hill residents . All in all it is a lovely, warm and interesting story of starting over in life, family, fulfilling one's dream, secrets, love and finding a place in life and the community. Looking forward to reading more books in this series.
A young Mum, Ella Devonport , who was a professional Swimmer moves to Western Australia to a country town of Chalk Hill, with her 10 year old son Sam. She has separated from her husband. She takes on a new profession in Real Estate and her first assignment was to sell Irma Honeychurch's house.
Ella meets Irma Honeychurch's grandson Jake, who is a local farmer and a hardware store owner. There is an instant spark between Jake and Ella. The selling of the house does not go well as Jake has no plans to sell the house. Even Irma's pet cockatiel Percy also loved the house.
Her ex-husband and swimming coach was a constant support and inspiration in Ella's and Sam's life. I was sad that they did not get back together. Though Jake is also a wonderful and warm person and he wanted to see Ella happy. Ella's
love for swimming is also seen in her naming her cockatiel's after her favourite swimmer Kieren Perkins as Perkins I, Perkins II and Perkins III .
Love storiesthat are set in small community country towns and enjoyed getting to know most of the Chalk Hill residents . All in all it is a lovely, warm and interesting story of starting over in life, family, fulfilling one's dream, secrets, love and finding a place in life and the community. Looking forward to reading more books in this series.
August 12, 2018
I’m just a little bit in love with Lily Malone’s style. In her latest novel, Water Under the Bridge, clear writing, a great setting, and life-like dramas all add up to an easy-to-read escapist novel that is more small-town fiction than romance.
Water Under the Bridge tells the story of Ella, ex-swimming champ, and her struggle to carve out a new life in a country town with her ten-year-old son, Sam. When she meets local fire-fighter and hardware store owner, Jake, there’s an immediate chemistry, but Ella has a LOT of baggage.
I enjoyed the slow pace of life in the town of Chalk Hill, with its eccentric characters and views of the Porongurups. More than anything else, however, this novel has heart.
Five stars for a genre-busting effort from Lily Malone.
Water Under the Bridge tells the story of Ella, ex-swimming champ, and her struggle to carve out a new life in a country town with her ten-year-old son, Sam. When she meets local fire-fighter and hardware store owner, Jake, there’s an immediate chemistry, but Ella has a LOT of baggage.
I enjoyed the slow pace of life in the town of Chalk Hill, with its eccentric characters and views of the Porongurups. More than anything else, however, this novel has heart.
Five stars for a genre-busting effort from Lily Malone.
August 21, 2018
Lily Malone has a truly unique voice to all her books. Every story is a journey into a world of true blue Australian characters, written with humour to make you smile, emotion that wraps your heart in a warm hug, and skill that keeps you engaged from start to finish. Jake (*sigh*) and Ella's story is full of everything mentioned above and more. I fell in love with the town and the people, even the bad guys. Throw in a German ex-husband and swimming coach who has a heart as big as he is, and you have an award-worthy novel in your hands.
March 11, 2018
This was such a lovely read. Lily Malone's writing is a masterclass on how to how to write emotional subtlety. And I don't know any other writer that handles the complexity of family life so well. I read this story in one sitting like I have with all other of Malone's books and then promptly went back and started reading it again. If you want to feel so immersed in a story that you feel like you're on a holiday in someone else's life, and finish feeling like you've had a nice warm hug, this is the book for you.
September 7, 2019
This was a thoroughly enjoyable read. I fell in love with the two main characters and agonised over their ups and downs. I particularly enjoyed the sub plot with Ella's son, and the struggle she had with him and the efforts she went to to protect him. There are so many characters to love in this story, I'm so glad it's part of a trilogy!
March 18, 2018
I read this book in one day and related to the realistic people, the setting (rural Western Australia) and the issues they faced. Once again, Lily Malone has delivered.
Disclaimer: Lily and I are longtime writing friends, but I’d have loved this book regardless.
Disclaimer: Lily and I are longtime writing friends, but I’d have loved this book regardless.
July 15, 2018
'Water Under the Bridge' by Australian Author Lily Malone is a really wonderful read.I thoroughly enjoyed Ella & Jake's story:)
April 4, 2018
This was an easy read but I struggled a bit with the behaviours of the main characters and also the 10 year old.
September 4, 2021
Looking forward to reading the rest of the series.
February 20, 2018
Lily Malone’s website states she is the author whose stories will make you smile. Having read several I can vouch for that.
Water Under the Bridge shows Lily is one of the best Aussie authors (I have read) when it comes to really nailing characterisation. I LOVE the sound of Chalk Hill as a community and, oh, the joy in that name Honeychurch! Inspired!
Water Under the Bridge is a contemporary story that’s been carefully plotted and populated with authentic and relatable characters (and not a cliche in sight). But what I really enjoy is the attention to detail Lily gives to each scene. You are never left wondering about what the character is doing, thinking, feeling (actions, expressions, and those character thoughts that make me giggle). Lily makes every word count (not a scrap of padding in this story) and each scene is cleverly choreographed so that as a reader I am a witness to every moment. (And there are some adorable scenes containing Lily’s deftness with dialogue and introspection.)
Aspiring writers need to read this book. It is a lesson in craft (conflict, POV, dialogue, and scene setting). And readers who enjoy small town romances will love getting to know the many Chalk Hill residents.
Water Under the Bridge is the first in a three-book series (I believe) and my prediction is Chalk Hill will see Lily Malone, author, leave others writing in her genre in her dust!
Water Under the Bridge shows Lily is one of the best Aussie authors (I have read) when it comes to really nailing characterisation. I LOVE the sound of Chalk Hill as a community and, oh, the joy in that name Honeychurch! Inspired!
Water Under the Bridge is a contemporary story that’s been carefully plotted and populated with authentic and relatable characters (and not a cliche in sight). But what I really enjoy is the attention to detail Lily gives to each scene. You are never left wondering about what the character is doing, thinking, feeling (actions, expressions, and those character thoughts that make me giggle). Lily makes every word count (not a scrap of padding in this story) and each scene is cleverly choreographed so that as a reader I am a witness to every moment. (And there are some adorable scenes containing Lily’s deftness with dialogue and introspection.)
Aspiring writers need to read this book. It is a lesson in craft (conflict, POV, dialogue, and scene setting). And readers who enjoy small town romances will love getting to know the many Chalk Hill residents.
Water Under the Bridge is the first in a three-book series (I believe) and my prediction is Chalk Hill will see Lily Malone, author, leave others writing in her genre in her dust!
October 14, 2020
Loved it!
I actually read this series out of order. This is the first book, but I read it last. It didn't really matter so much. I really enjoyed this entire series. Most authors I read are either American, or trying to sound like it. This book is heart-warmingly Aussie through and through, with fun characters and a storyline I could really get into. Plus sexy brothers... va va voom!
I actually read this series out of order. This is the first book, but I read it last. It didn't really matter so much. I really enjoyed this entire series. Most authors I read are either American, or trying to sound like it. This book is heart-warmingly Aussie through and through, with fun characters and a storyline I could really get into. Plus sexy brothers... va va voom!
June 1, 2020
My Beautiful Best Friend found Lily's books and she highly recommended them. So luckily for me our library just reopened from covid and I was lucky to get it. I was not disappointed at all. I thoroughly loved it. Now to go reserve book 2. Thank You Lily Malone for an awesome book
November 15, 2020
Got this one for Christmas... really enjoyed it. First time reading Lily Malone, glad I did. About to start Chalk Hill #2.
April 27, 2020
Loved it!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 64 reviews