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The Wild Australia Stories #5
Journey's End
From the author of Currawong Creek and Turtle Reef comes a beautiful story of family, friendship and the healing power of love.
When Sydney botanist Kim Sullivan and her husband inherit Journey's End, a rundown farm high on the Great Eastern Escarpment, they dream of one day restoring it to its natural state. Ten years later, however, Kim is tragically widowed. Selling up is the only practical option, so she and her children head to the mountains to organise the sale. The last thing Kim expects is for Journey's End to cast its wild spell on them all.
The family decide to stay, and Kim forges on with plans to rewild the property, propagating plants and acquiring a menagerie of native animals. But wayward wildlife, hostile farmers and her own lingering grief make the task seem hopeless. That is, until she meets the mysterious Taj, a man who has a way with animals. Kim begins to feel that she might find love again. But Taj has his own tragic past – one that could drive a wedge between them that can not be overcome . . .
When Sydney botanist Kim Sullivan and her husband inherit Journey's End, a rundown farm high on the Great Eastern Escarpment, they dream of one day restoring it to its natural state. Ten years later, however, Kim is tragically widowed. Selling up is the only practical option, so she and her children head to the mountains to organise the sale. The last thing Kim expects is for Journey's End to cast its wild spell on them all.
The family decide to stay, and Kim forges on with plans to rewild the property, propagating plants and acquiring a menagerie of native animals. But wayward wildlife, hostile farmers and her own lingering grief make the task seem hopeless. That is, until she meets the mysterious Taj, a man who has a way with animals. Kim begins to feel that she might find love again. But Taj has his own tragic past – one that could drive a wedge between them that can not be overcome . . .
316 pages, Paperback
Published February 25, 2019
85 people are currently reading
196 people want to read
About the author
Jennifer Scoullar
24 books133 followersJennifer Scoullar Bio
Jennifer has always harboured a deep appreciation and respect for the natural world. Her house is on a hill-top, overlooking valleys of messmate and mountain ash. A pair of old eagles live there too. Black-shouldered wallabies graze by the creek. Eastern Spinebills hover among the callistemon. Jennifer lives with her family on a beautiful property in the mountains, that was left to her by her father. Horses have always been her passion. She grew up on the books of Elyne Mitchell, and all her life she’s ridden and bred horses, in particular Australian Stock Horses. She has nine published novels. Brumby’s Run (Penguin 2012), Currawong Creek (Penguin 2013), Billabong Bend (Penguin 2014), Turtle Reef (Penguin 2015), Journey's End (Penguin 2016), Fortune's Son (Penguin 2017), The Lost Valley (Pilyara Press 2018), The Memory Tree (Pilyara Press 2019) and Wasp Season (Pilyara Press 2020)
Jennifer has always harboured a deep appreciation and respect for the natural world. Her house is on a hill-top, overlooking valleys of messmate and mountain ash. A pair of old eagles live there too. Black-shouldered wallabies graze by the creek. Eastern Spinebills hover among the callistemon. Jennifer lives with her family on a beautiful property in the mountains, that was left to her by her father. Horses have always been her passion. She grew up on the books of Elyne Mitchell, and all her life she’s ridden and bred horses, in particular Australian Stock Horses. She has nine published novels. Brumby’s Run (Penguin 2012), Currawong Creek (Penguin 2013), Billabong Bend (Penguin 2014), Turtle Reef (Penguin 2015), Journey's End (Penguin 2016), Fortune's Son (Penguin 2017), The Lost Valley (Pilyara Press 2018), The Memory Tree (Pilyara Press 2019) and Wasp Season (Pilyara Press 2020)
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June 2, 2016
Two years after the news of Kim Sullivan’s husband, Connor’s tragic death, she and her two children, Jake and Abbey had yet to come to terms with his loss. Jake especially was taking it hard – acting up at school, surly and fighting with both his school friends and his mother and sister. Kim was at her wits end. Her decision to take the children to Journey’s End, the rundown farm Connor had inherited years earlier and which the family had loved was one born of desperation. She knew the farm had to be sold, but as they set the place ready for sale, she was hopeful of the family finding some peace.
Journey’s End was on the outskirts of the small town of Tingo and an hour from Wingham in country New South Wales. When the natural beauty of the mountains, the wildlife and bush captivated Kim and the children, Kim decided to take a year from her job as botanist in Sydney so they could immerse themselves in the healing of the countryside. When the children settled into the Tingo Primary School they immediately made friends – Kim’s heart was happy to see Jake back to his old self.
Into her life came Ben, the real estate agent she was discussing the sale of Journey’s End with; and Taj, the local handyman who had a deep affinity with animals and knew the bush inside out. Kim’s desire to continue with Connor’s work in rewilding Journey’s End was helped by Taj – but not everyone was happy with what Kim and Taj were doing. And while Kim fought with her lingering grief, she was also aware that Taj had dark secrets of his own. Jake and Abbey had settled into Journey’s End as if they’d never been anywhere else – but could Kim do the same? Then with a shocking swiftness danger circled them – there was anger and bitterness; the threats left Kim shaken. Were her dreams to come to nothing?
Journey’s End by Aussie author Jennifer Scoullar is, in my humble opinion, this author’s best yet! I absolutely loved it – the beauty of the farm; the waterfall and the river; the mountains and the magnificent views; the animals and vegetation – all brought to life by the author’s beautifully descriptive words. There was also a deep love between Kim and her children, as well as Kim’s friendship with Daisy – all the characters were brought to life in a realistic way. Filled with heartbreak and loss, hope, friendship and love, Journey’s End is one I highly recommend to all.
With thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this copy to read in exchange for my honest review.
Journey’s End was on the outskirts of the small town of Tingo and an hour from Wingham in country New South Wales. When the natural beauty of the mountains, the wildlife and bush captivated Kim and the children, Kim decided to take a year from her job as botanist in Sydney so they could immerse themselves in the healing of the countryside. When the children settled into the Tingo Primary School they immediately made friends – Kim’s heart was happy to see Jake back to his old self.
Into her life came Ben, the real estate agent she was discussing the sale of Journey’s End with; and Taj, the local handyman who had a deep affinity with animals and knew the bush inside out. Kim’s desire to continue with Connor’s work in rewilding Journey’s End was helped by Taj – but not everyone was happy with what Kim and Taj were doing. And while Kim fought with her lingering grief, she was also aware that Taj had dark secrets of his own. Jake and Abbey had settled into Journey’s End as if they’d never been anywhere else – but could Kim do the same? Then with a shocking swiftness danger circled them – there was anger and bitterness; the threats left Kim shaken. Were her dreams to come to nothing?
Journey’s End by Aussie author Jennifer Scoullar is, in my humble opinion, this author’s best yet! I absolutely loved it – the beauty of the farm; the waterfall and the river; the mountains and the magnificent views; the animals and vegetation – all brought to life by the author’s beautifully descriptive words. There was also a deep love between Kim and her children, as well as Kim’s friendship with Daisy – all the characters were brought to life in a realistic way. Filled with heartbreak and loss, hope, friendship and love, Journey’s End is one I highly recommend to all.
With thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this copy to read in exchange for my honest review.
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Blurb:
When Sydney botanist Kim Sullivan and her husband inherit Journey's End, a rundown farm high on the Great Eastern Escarpment, they dream of one day restoring it to its natural state. Ten years later, however, Kim is tragically widowed. Selling up is the only practical option, so she and her children head to the mountains to organise the sale. The last thing Kim expects is for Journey's End to cast its wild spell on them all.
The family decide to stay, and Kim forges on with plans to rewild the property, propagating plants and acquiring a menagerie of native animals. But wayward wildlife, hostile farmers and her own lingering grief make the task seem hopeless. That is, until she meets the mysterious Taj, a man who has a way with animals. Kim begins to feel that she might find love again. But Taj has his own tragic past – one that could drive a wedge between them that can not be overcome . . .
Blurb:
When Sydney botanist Kim Sullivan and her husband inherit Journey's End, a rundown farm high on the Great Eastern Escarpment, they dream of one day restoring it to its natural state. Ten years later, however, Kim is tragically widowed. Selling up is the only practical option, so she and her children head to the mountains to organise the sale. The last thing Kim expects is for Journey's End to cast its wild spell on them all.
The family decide to stay, and Kim forges on with plans to rewild the property, propagating plants and acquiring a menagerie of native animals. But wayward wildlife, hostile farmers and her own lingering grief make the task seem hopeless. That is, until she meets the mysterious Taj, a man who has a way with animals. Kim begins to feel that she might find love again. But Taj has his own tragic past – one that could drive a wedge between them that can not be overcome . . .
June 9, 2016
well i finished the way I started... almost in tears. But these ones were different tears.
What a wonderful read.
What a wonderful read.
July 10, 2016
Superb!
My View:
If you are a fan of crime fiction (as I am) then this read will convert you to the genre of Australian Rural Fiction! Or maybe just to Jennifer Scoullar’s work
I loved this read – for so many reasons:
This is a well written narrative of rewilding/restoration – and the simile is not reserved just for the flora and fauna in the narrative, it also reflects the emotional restorations happening in so many of the characters’ lives in the book.
It made me reflect on another perspective on the war in Afghanistan that I hadn’t really given much thought to, (that of the innocent victims of the war) and I saw Afghanistan, the country as a more diverse landscape than that often cited in media grabs; more than a flat, dusty, almost people less, barren land of a remote villages.
It made me consider and reflect on more natural ways of conserving /preserving nature than baiting and trapping. I looked at dingoes and their role in the environment in a new light. Thanks for opening my eyes Jennifer.
Jennifer Scoullar’s writing has a rich complexity – it can be read as simply a story of renewal from a place of grief, a story of friendships, a romance, or you can absorb the depth of issues gently raised here – of racism, environmental management, wild life rescue, the effects of dwindling numbers in small towns on education etc. the illegal logging of protected stands of trees etc. etc.
However you read this you will enjoy it!
My View:
If you are a fan of crime fiction (as I am) then this read will convert you to the genre of Australian Rural Fiction! Or maybe just to Jennifer Scoullar’s work
I loved this read – for so many reasons:
This is a well written narrative of rewilding/restoration – and the simile is not reserved just for the flora and fauna in the narrative, it also reflects the emotional restorations happening in so many of the characters’ lives in the book.
It made me reflect on another perspective on the war in Afghanistan that I hadn’t really given much thought to, (that of the innocent victims of the war) and I saw Afghanistan, the country as a more diverse landscape than that often cited in media grabs; more than a flat, dusty, almost people less, barren land of a remote villages.
It made me consider and reflect on more natural ways of conserving /preserving nature than baiting and trapping. I looked at dingoes and their role in the environment in a new light. Thanks for opening my eyes Jennifer.
Jennifer Scoullar’s writing has a rich complexity – it can be read as simply a story of renewal from a place of grief, a story of friendships, a romance, or you can absorb the depth of issues gently raised here – of racism, environmental management, wild life rescue, the effects of dwindling numbers in small towns on education etc. the illegal logging of protected stands of trees etc. etc.
However you read this you will enjoy it!
September 9, 2016
Always a delight to read Jen's books. This one and Brumby's Run (oh, and Turtle Reef). Oh, what the heck. Read them all. :)
April 4, 2019
Fantastic beyond words
This book was so awrsome,there isn't enough words to describe it.Ithad every emotion you could want in a book.(love,hate,dtama,suspence & sadness.It points out how quick we are to judge.It's to bad we don't forgive ss quick.Fantastic author.
This book was so awrsome,there isn't enough words to describe it.Ithad every emotion you could want in a book.(love,hate,dtama,suspence & sadness.It points out how quick we are to judge.It's to bad we don't forgive ss quick.Fantastic author.
November 19, 2018
This was another easy book to read given to me by a family member. I did enjoy it, but its just another romance with the predictable ending of boy gets the girl in the end. Trying to steer more towards true stories now.
July 27, 2025
4 ⭐️s
Enjoyed this tale very much. A compelling story and nice twists along the way.
Audiobook via BorrowBox
Published by: Bolinda audio
Read by Maryanne Fonceca
Duration:11 hrs, 36 min. 1.25x Speed
Enjoyed this tale very much. A compelling story and nice twists along the way.
Audiobook via BorrowBox
Published by: Bolinda audio
Read by Maryanne Fonceca
Duration:11 hrs, 36 min. 1.25x Speed
July 17, 2016
*4.5 stars
Having read all of Jennifer Scoullar’s novels to date, I welcomed the opportunity to travel through the pages of her latest novel, Journey’s End. I firmly believe Jennifer Scoullar is a leading author in the field of Australian rural fiction. Scoullar’s novels are slight departure from those in the same genre, she is able to weave her unique passion for the environment into her rural fiction narratives. Journey’s End is another fantastic book by Jennifer Scoullar, incorporating the themes of love, emotional repair, friendship and family, all under a stunning Australian backdrop.
Journey’s End starts with a pretty emotional prologue - have the tissues at the ready! Kim Sullivan, mother of two, is looking forward to her husband Connor returning home after a tour of Afghanistan, where he has been serving in the Army. Kim's hopes are shattered when she receives the terrible news that Connor was killed. Kim and her two children are completely consumed by grief, especially when a beloved family pet also leaves their lives. Two years later, Kim feels it is time for the family to have some time away, so she takes them to Journey’s End, a property her husband inherited some years ago. Situated near the isolated small town of Tingo in country NSW, Journey’s End is a rambling farm surrounded by breathtaking landscape. With plans to stay only a short time at Journey’s End to fix up the rundown property in preparation for sale, Kim and her children soon find they have grown deeply attached to Journey’s End. The Sullivans make the decision to stay put at Journey’s End, where Kim begins to move past her grief as she repairs the property. The family soon finds their lives touched by various Tingo locals, building strong friendships but also gaining enemies from local farmers who disagree with Kim’s attempts at rewilding her property. When the local handyman Taj enters the Sullivan’s lives, a chance at love and forgiveness seems possible, but Taj is a man with a shadowy past.
Journey’s End was a novel that surprised me with how deeply it was able to impact on me emotionally. The moving prologue, whereby the main character of Kim receives the devastating news her husband is not returning from his tour of Afghanistan, was utterly heartbreaking. So too were the chapters that followed, as the family struggles to come to terms with their grief. I felt so much for Kim and her son Jake in particular, as his grief takes over all aspects of his life. I applauded Kim when she decided to take the family away from their current living arrangements to Journey’s End. I adored the location of Tingo completely and I felt it was an excellent setting choice by Scoullar. Jennifer Scoullar’s descriptions of her locale, the mountains of country NSW, are rich in detail. I love how Scoullar adds in her passion and understanding of Australia’s flora and fauna to her narrative. Journey’s End is no exception, as she includes animals not covered in her previous books but also adds some favourites. I especially enjoyed the sections where brumbies and dingoes were featured.
Characters are a well formed in Journey’s End, Kim and her family are both very easy to relate and sympathise with. The country folk of Tingo are realistic and have some very good back stories. Ben and Taj are characters which stood out to me as intrinsically interesting .There is a touch of romance in Journey’s End that it is dusted with a light flavour only, but it seemed completely fitting for this book. Kim’s personal journey through the stages of her grief and her pursuits as a botanist in her new home of Journey’s End, definitely made this book such a joy to read from the start to the close of the book.
To read Journey’s End is to be rewarded with many rich layers. It is a story about love, loss, grief and finding the strength to move on. Journey’s End is unafraid to tackle some heavier issues such as prejudice, small town life problems, building relationships, wildlife care and alternative land regeneration techniques The most touching part of Journey’s End , besides the endearing characters and well plotted narrative, is the setting. Journey’s End also offers a very good picture of life in the mountain regions of country NSW and although I am unfamiliar with terrain, Scoullar opened my eyes to a truly majestic part of Australia.
*This review also appears on my blog https://mrsbbookreviews.wordpress.com...
Having read all of Jennifer Scoullar’s novels to date, I welcomed the opportunity to travel through the pages of her latest novel, Journey’s End. I firmly believe Jennifer Scoullar is a leading author in the field of Australian rural fiction. Scoullar’s novels are slight departure from those in the same genre, she is able to weave her unique passion for the environment into her rural fiction narratives. Journey’s End is another fantastic book by Jennifer Scoullar, incorporating the themes of love, emotional repair, friendship and family, all under a stunning Australian backdrop.
Journey’s End starts with a pretty emotional prologue - have the tissues at the ready! Kim Sullivan, mother of two, is looking forward to her husband Connor returning home after a tour of Afghanistan, where he has been serving in the Army. Kim's hopes are shattered when she receives the terrible news that Connor was killed. Kim and her two children are completely consumed by grief, especially when a beloved family pet also leaves their lives. Two years later, Kim feels it is time for the family to have some time away, so she takes them to Journey’s End, a property her husband inherited some years ago. Situated near the isolated small town of Tingo in country NSW, Journey’s End is a rambling farm surrounded by breathtaking landscape. With plans to stay only a short time at Journey’s End to fix up the rundown property in preparation for sale, Kim and her children soon find they have grown deeply attached to Journey’s End. The Sullivans make the decision to stay put at Journey’s End, where Kim begins to move past her grief as she repairs the property. The family soon finds their lives touched by various Tingo locals, building strong friendships but also gaining enemies from local farmers who disagree with Kim’s attempts at rewilding her property. When the local handyman Taj enters the Sullivan’s lives, a chance at love and forgiveness seems possible, but Taj is a man with a shadowy past.
Journey’s End was a novel that surprised me with how deeply it was able to impact on me emotionally. The moving prologue, whereby the main character of Kim receives the devastating news her husband is not returning from his tour of Afghanistan, was utterly heartbreaking. So too were the chapters that followed, as the family struggles to come to terms with their grief. I felt so much for Kim and her son Jake in particular, as his grief takes over all aspects of his life. I applauded Kim when she decided to take the family away from their current living arrangements to Journey’s End. I adored the location of Tingo completely and I felt it was an excellent setting choice by Scoullar. Jennifer Scoullar’s descriptions of her locale, the mountains of country NSW, are rich in detail. I love how Scoullar adds in her passion and understanding of Australia’s flora and fauna to her narrative. Journey’s End is no exception, as she includes animals not covered in her previous books but also adds some favourites. I especially enjoyed the sections where brumbies and dingoes were featured.
Characters are a well formed in Journey’s End, Kim and her family are both very easy to relate and sympathise with. The country folk of Tingo are realistic and have some very good back stories. Ben and Taj are characters which stood out to me as intrinsically interesting .There is a touch of romance in Journey’s End that it is dusted with a light flavour only, but it seemed completely fitting for this book. Kim’s personal journey through the stages of her grief and her pursuits as a botanist in her new home of Journey’s End, definitely made this book such a joy to read from the start to the close of the book.
To read Journey’s End is to be rewarded with many rich layers. It is a story about love, loss, grief and finding the strength to move on. Journey’s End is unafraid to tackle some heavier issues such as prejudice, small town life problems, building relationships, wildlife care and alternative land regeneration techniques The most touching part of Journey’s End , besides the endearing characters and well plotted narrative, is the setting. Journey’s End also offers a very good picture of life in the mountain regions of country NSW and although I am unfamiliar with terrain, Scoullar opened my eyes to a truly majestic part of Australia.
*This review also appears on my blog https://mrsbbookreviews.wordpress.com...
June 17, 2016
Book blurb...
From the author of Currawong Creek and Turtle Reef comes a beautiful story of family, friendship and the healing power of love.
When Sydney botanist Kim Sullivan and her husband inherit Journey's End, a rundown farm high on the Great Eastern Escarpment, they dream of one day restoring it to its natural state. Ten years later, however, Kim is tragically widowed. Selling up is the only practical option, so she and her children head to the mountains to organise the sale. The last thing Kim expects is for Journey's End to cast its wild spell on them all.
The family decides to stay, and Kim forges on with plans to rewild the property, propagating plants and acquiring a menagerie of native animals. But wayward wildlife, hostile farmers and her own lingering grief make the task seem hopeless. That is, until she meets the mysterious Taj, a man who has a way with animals. Kim begins to feel that she might find love again. But Taj has his own tragic past – one that could drive a wedge between them that can not be overcome . . .
My thoughts…
I read Turtle Reef last year and as a result promised myself I’d read Jennifer���s next book and I was truly rewarded. I love reading well plotted stories that create a passion in me for the characters and their causes. This was one of those books. Well done Jennifer Scoullar.
Kim’s time at Journey’s End certainly presents her with some of life's lessons, but it also shows her the way to mend the hearts of her children, as well as her own.
I loved the character Taj and found his aura drawing me to him. As a character, Taj was so well written, so deep and complex, he was almost tangible. I felt I was there on the page with him, willing him to overcome the feelings that were holding him back.
As for Ben, you'll have to read the story and experience the emotions he evokes.
A journey through tragedy that will tear at your heart, have you barrack for love and make you want to live on this property high on the Great Escarpment.
From the author of Currawong Creek and Turtle Reef comes a beautiful story of family, friendship and the healing power of love.
When Sydney botanist Kim Sullivan and her husband inherit Journey's End, a rundown farm high on the Great Eastern Escarpment, they dream of one day restoring it to its natural state. Ten years later, however, Kim is tragically widowed. Selling up is the only practical option, so she and her children head to the mountains to organise the sale. The last thing Kim expects is for Journey's End to cast its wild spell on them all.
The family decides to stay, and Kim forges on with plans to rewild the property, propagating plants and acquiring a menagerie of native animals. But wayward wildlife, hostile farmers and her own lingering grief make the task seem hopeless. That is, until she meets the mysterious Taj, a man who has a way with animals. Kim begins to feel that she might find love again. But Taj has his own tragic past – one that could drive a wedge between them that can not be overcome . . .
My thoughts…
I read Turtle Reef last year and as a result promised myself I’d read Jennifer���s next book and I was truly rewarded. I love reading well plotted stories that create a passion in me for the characters and their causes. This was one of those books. Well done Jennifer Scoullar.
Kim’s time at Journey’s End certainly presents her with some of life's lessons, but it also shows her the way to mend the hearts of her children, as well as her own.
I loved the character Taj and found his aura drawing me to him. As a character, Taj was so well written, so deep and complex, he was almost tangible. I felt I was there on the page with him, willing him to overcome the feelings that were holding him back.
As for Ben, you'll have to read the story and experience the emotions he evokes.
A journey through tragedy that will tear at your heart, have you barrack for love and make you want to live on this property high on the Great Escarpment.
July 12, 2016
Jennifer Scoullar did not disappoint with her latest instalment. I’d expected lots of environmental titbits and I definitely got that and more! This time, even as she’s garnering support for the regeneration of Australian nature, she’s also explored elsewhere for a little. I’ve read 3 of her novels so far and each contained different animals to be appreciated and preserved. I think I’ve enjoyed Journey’s End most because of the chosen animal here is closer to my personal preference. I know I’m being very vague but I’m trying to stick to what the book blurb tells you.
Aside from the particular species featured in this book, I also really liked that another culture was brought into the mix. A culture that is currently not-so-popular. Even if Scoullar didn’t particular delve deep into this, she’s brought up the fact that we should never judge a person by their looks / nationality. There is a lot of misguidance / misconceptions in the world spread by hatred and the only way out, is to dig deep and learn the truth.
Kim Sullivan is easily likeable and despite understanding her grief etc, there were times where she was just so frustrating. Nevertheless, I haven’t ever been in her position so I’m also a bit conflicted about how much sympathy I should have for her and whether I should be feeling guilty about being frustrated of her not moving on. Thankfully, that’s not my job and all I had to do was cheer for the other characters when expressed their thoughts!
Journey’s End is a novel full of grief, prejudice, relationships and life while exploring the beauty of natural ecological systems. It is an easy book to get into but it’s really a light chick-lit sort of reading. My warning to you: Be prepared to be touched and get teary…
Thanks to Penguin Books Australia for copy eARC via NetGalley in exchange of honest review
Aside from the particular species featured in this book, I also really liked that another culture was brought into the mix. A culture that is currently not-so-popular. Even if Scoullar didn’t particular delve deep into this, she’s brought up the fact that we should never judge a person by their looks / nationality. There is a lot of misguidance / misconceptions in the world spread by hatred and the only way out, is to dig deep and learn the truth.
Kim Sullivan is easily likeable and despite understanding her grief etc, there were times where she was just so frustrating. Nevertheless, I haven’t ever been in her position so I’m also a bit conflicted about how much sympathy I should have for her and whether I should be feeling guilty about being frustrated of her not moving on. Thankfully, that’s not my job and all I had to do was cheer for the other characters when expressed their thoughts!
Journey’s End is a novel full of grief, prejudice, relationships and life while exploring the beauty of natural ecological systems. It is an easy book to get into but it’s really a light chick-lit sort of reading. My warning to you: Be prepared to be touched and get teary…
Thanks to Penguin Books Australia for copy eARC via NetGalley in exchange of honest review
July 21, 2016
This is the first book I have read by local author Jennifer Scoullar - and it certainly won't be the last. After Kim's husband is killed in Afghanistan her life is in tatters, with the impact of this affecting her son Jake and daughter Abbey. Jake is finding it increasingly hard without his dad and his behaviour at school and his grades Kim decides to take the whole family to Journey's end with the idea being, to do some surface repairs readying it for sale, as without her husband, the dream they had to restore it has died with him. There, she meets her neighbour Mel who cares for injured wildlife as well as running her own sheep, Ben - the real estate agent she enlists to sell her property, and the mysterious Taj who himself is from Afghanistan who is hired to do the repairs on the house.
Once there Kim decides to stay for 6 months and enrols the children in the local small school where they thrive. She is a Botanist herself and after spending time with Mel and Taj she decides to rewild her land and with Taj's help re-introduce dingoes to the area to keep the wildlife in check and give native and rare plants the chance to regenerate. Her plans are going so well, but all of a sudden sheep are found killed on Mel's property and the locals are up in arms about Kim's plans.
It's a story of friendship, renewal, racism, war, wild life rescue , rainforest, love and environmental issues. Jennifer Scoullar writes with such knowledge about environmental matters. I was glued to this book and really didn't want it to end. It will go down as one of my best reads this year.
Once there Kim decides to stay for 6 months and enrols the children in the local small school where they thrive. She is a Botanist herself and after spending time with Mel and Taj she decides to rewild her land and with Taj's help re-introduce dingoes to the area to keep the wildlife in check and give native and rare plants the chance to regenerate. Her plans are going so well, but all of a sudden sheep are found killed on Mel's property and the locals are up in arms about Kim's plans.
It's a story of friendship, renewal, racism, war, wild life rescue , rainforest, love and environmental issues. Jennifer Scoullar writes with such knowledge about environmental matters. I was glued to this book and really didn't want it to end. It will go down as one of my best reads this year.
June 5, 2016
Thanks to netgalley and Penguin Books Australia, I had the opportunity to read and review Journey's End by Jennifer Scoullar before its release later this month.
It begins with Kim Sullivan, a mother of two children, Jake and Abbey, who is still struggling to come to terms with the death of her husband Connor two years ago. His death has also affected the children; Jake in particular finds it difficult, and lashes out on his family, friends, and school. Kim makes the brave decision to take the children away for a visit to Journey's End, a property her late husband inherited years prior, located on the outskirts of a town named Tingo, in country New South Wales. She wants to sell the run-down property, but hopes that the time away will benefit them all before she puts it on the market. She meets Ben, the real estate agent, as well as Taj, Tingo's local handyman. Both men sway Kim's decision to stay at Journey's End, each with different motives.
Meanwhile, the children thrive in their new surroundings, however, Kim, a botanist, makes a few enemies when she decides to rewild the land, and introduce dingoes into the area. The way Jennifer describes the land and its surroundings is just beautiful. The flora and the fauna are mentioned in great detail, and it was one aspect of the book I really liked. For me, this book had it all. It is a story of hope and new beginnings, of love and friendships.
It touches on important issues like racism, bush regeneration, and wildlife rescue.
I really enjoyed reading Journey's End, and I would highly recommend it
It begins with Kim Sullivan, a mother of two children, Jake and Abbey, who is still struggling to come to terms with the death of her husband Connor two years ago. His death has also affected the children; Jake in particular finds it difficult, and lashes out on his family, friends, and school. Kim makes the brave decision to take the children away for a visit to Journey's End, a property her late husband inherited years prior, located on the outskirts of a town named Tingo, in country New South Wales. She wants to sell the run-down property, but hopes that the time away will benefit them all before she puts it on the market. She meets Ben, the real estate agent, as well as Taj, Tingo's local handyman. Both men sway Kim's decision to stay at Journey's End, each with different motives.
Meanwhile, the children thrive in their new surroundings, however, Kim, a botanist, makes a few enemies when she decides to rewild the land, and introduce dingoes into the area. The way Jennifer describes the land and its surroundings is just beautiful. The flora and the fauna are mentioned in great detail, and it was one aspect of the book I really liked. For me, this book had it all. It is a story of hope and new beginnings, of love and friendships.
It touches on important issues like racism, bush regeneration, and wildlife rescue.
I really enjoyed reading Journey's End, and I would highly recommend it
June 13, 2016
The prologue was completely heartbreaking and I was glued to the book throughout. While Kim's character garnered my sympathies for the trials her character faced and the insurmountable grief she carried throughout the story, her character often perplexed me just the same. The life shattering events and obstacles for the story's characters were emotionally turbulent from one chapter to the next. Serious issues raised throughout the story were confronting and impacting. Overall I liked the story, the characters - sometimes hot and cold in likeability, but combined, kept this reader fixed to the pages.
Review copy received from Penguin Books Australia via Netgalley for an honest rating
Review copy received from Penguin Books Australia via Netgalley for an honest rating
July 22, 2017
I enjoyed this very much. I enjoy reading about our environment and the things we can do to try and preserve and fix it. This story had many different themes running through, loss, love, suspense, environment and refugees. There were times I got annoyed with Kim, but other times I really felt for her, I liked the way she cared about bringing back the rainforest. I was interested very much I reading about Taj and his background, we all need to take the time to remember to learn about those from other backgrounds and not just make assumptions based on what the media tells us to think. Another good book from Jennifer Scoullar.
July 17, 2016
Really enjoyed this book loved the characters and the intetaction between them. I have enjoyed all the books I have read by this author.
August 2, 2016
Very interesting story, not a typical rural romance. I really enjoyed this story.
August 11, 2019
The Wild Australia Stories Series:
Brumby’s Run #1 – This is my first read by this author and I love it. I felt like I was there in those areas of AU. The vivid descriptions, the variety of everyday characters, the horses and all the background information just kept me glued to the pages. I could not put the book down and I had another book to review: this book came from my library. I took my time savoring every word and the storylines and was happy the author stayed home, instead of writing about the US or some other place, sharing the lifestyles and traditions in her neck of AU. The extra material not usually found in many books was extremely interesting and enjoyable to read about: the depth of the training; horse breeds; and even the proper handling of the environment. All the background information added substance to the tapestry of the story. I will read every book I can find from Ms. Scoullar. 5*
Currawong Creek #2 – This book is just as great to read as Brumby’s Run. Clare is a difficult person to like. She flip-flops between sensible and plain stupid too much and to extremes. She does running away well but not working out problems. Good storylines full with plenty of love, sacrifice and the power of healing with the use of therapy animals. The other main characters were good and interesting, along with most of the secondary characters. There are good expectations and a couple of surprises concerning friendship. Again, I felt as if I was there through Ms. S’s vivid descriptions. This is a feel good story complete with romance and shared loves. 4*
Turtle Reef #4 – This story is wonderful and heartbreaking. I found Ms. S’s vivid descriptions about the sea and her creatures, and the reefs, their functions and survival against man interesting and intriguing. The dugongs are very interesting and I learned quite a bit about them. Through Einstein the octopus, I gained a respect for the species, especially after learning about the sacrifices the females make for their young. This is y favorite of the three books that I’ve read so far. As interesting as the creatures were, the human characters held up their end – interesting, talented and varying from wonderful to damaged but always believable. Einstein and Aisha were my favorites with Zoe pulling in third. 5*
Journey’s End #5 – Wonderful and heartbreaking, this heartwarming story has a touch of romance making Journey’s End another top favorite of mine. All four stories were great, but Turtle and Journey grabbed my heart and made tears flow. I enjoyed Ms. S’s wild AU stories with her well-written characters and her vivid descriptions placing the reader deep into the tapestry of intriguing storylines and interesting background on AU and her wildlife. Dusty was my favorite character and Taj lent a mysterious element to a well-written story. 5*
The Wild Australia Stories Series end.
The Tasmanian Tales:
Fortune’s Son #1 – So sad and so heartbreaking, the heartwarming multiple storylines about Tasmania, her culture and her creatures was so interesting and intriguing; it was another hard to put down story. The well-written characters, the author’s vivid descriptions, and talented storytelling abilities place the reader deep into the weave of a beautiful tapestry of love, sacrifice and the culture and wildlife of Tasmania, with glimpses of AU. Bear is my favorite character next to Tasmania. 5*
The Lost Valley #2 – This story begins in 1929 with most of the family involved from Fortune’s Son. This book is so sad and so heartbreaking, as well as so heartwarming, intriguing, interesting and uplifting. The vivid descriptions woven with the old and new storylines make a substantial tapestry of love and sacrifice amongst the history of Tasmania, her people and her creatures and her culture. The 600 plus pages just flew by and I could not put this book down until I read the last page. I chain read all the books I had by this author and never once was bored or tired of reading about AU and Tasmania. the excitement over finding such a talented and creative storyteller/author never stopped. Rereading these books in the future, which is something I seldom do anymore, is a certain possibility. 5*
The Tasmanian Tales end.
Brumby’s Run #1 – This is my first read by this author and I love it. I felt like I was there in those areas of AU. The vivid descriptions, the variety of everyday characters, the horses and all the background information just kept me glued to the pages. I could not put the book down and I had another book to review: this book came from my library. I took my time savoring every word and the storylines and was happy the author stayed home, instead of writing about the US or some other place, sharing the lifestyles and traditions in her neck of AU. The extra material not usually found in many books was extremely interesting and enjoyable to read about: the depth of the training; horse breeds; and even the proper handling of the environment. All the background information added substance to the tapestry of the story. I will read every book I can find from Ms. Scoullar. 5*
Currawong Creek #2 – This book is just as great to read as Brumby’s Run. Clare is a difficult person to like. She flip-flops between sensible and plain stupid too much and to extremes. She does running away well but not working out problems. Good storylines full with plenty of love, sacrifice and the power of healing with the use of therapy animals. The other main characters were good and interesting, along with most of the secondary characters. There are good expectations and a couple of surprises concerning friendship. Again, I felt as if I was there through Ms. S’s vivid descriptions. This is a feel good story complete with romance and shared loves. 4*
Turtle Reef #4 – This story is wonderful and heartbreaking. I found Ms. S’s vivid descriptions about the sea and her creatures, and the reefs, their functions and survival against man interesting and intriguing. The dugongs are very interesting and I learned quite a bit about them. Through Einstein the octopus, I gained a respect for the species, especially after learning about the sacrifices the females make for their young. This is y favorite of the three books that I’ve read so far. As interesting as the creatures were, the human characters held up their end – interesting, talented and varying from wonderful to damaged but always believable. Einstein and Aisha were my favorites with Zoe pulling in third. 5*
Journey’s End #5 – Wonderful and heartbreaking, this heartwarming story has a touch of romance making Journey’s End another top favorite of mine. All four stories were great, but Turtle and Journey grabbed my heart and made tears flow. I enjoyed Ms. S’s wild AU stories with her well-written characters and her vivid descriptions placing the reader deep into the tapestry of intriguing storylines and interesting background on AU and her wildlife. Dusty was my favorite character and Taj lent a mysterious element to a well-written story. 5*
The Wild Australia Stories Series end.
The Tasmanian Tales:
Fortune’s Son #1 – So sad and so heartbreaking, the heartwarming multiple storylines about Tasmania, her culture and her creatures was so interesting and intriguing; it was another hard to put down story. The well-written characters, the author’s vivid descriptions, and talented storytelling abilities place the reader deep into the weave of a beautiful tapestry of love, sacrifice and the culture and wildlife of Tasmania, with glimpses of AU. Bear is my favorite character next to Tasmania. 5*
The Lost Valley #2 – This story begins in 1929 with most of the family involved from Fortune’s Son. This book is so sad and so heartbreaking, as well as so heartwarming, intriguing, interesting and uplifting. The vivid descriptions woven with the old and new storylines make a substantial tapestry of love and sacrifice amongst the history of Tasmania, her people and her creatures and her culture. The 600 plus pages just flew by and I could not put this book down until I read the last page. I chain read all the books I had by this author and never once was bored or tired of reading about AU and Tasmania. the excitement over finding such a talented and creative storyteller/author never stopped. Rereading these books in the future, which is something I seldom do anymore, is a certain possibility. 5*
The Tasmanian Tales end.
April 7, 2019
Another inspiring story by an amazing author! FIVE SPLENDID STARS!
Honestly, just when I think this author can't possibly surpass herself, she does! I'm running out of superlatives to describe her books. Like all the others, Journey's End is a breathtaking, can't-put-it-down experience, filled with true-to-life characters (including the animals!), an enthralling setting and a suspenseful plot with a perfect Happily Ever After ending.
I've learned so much about Australia's plants and animals from reading Ms. Scoullar's descriptive, impeccably researched books. Her passion for protecting and restoring Australia's natural environment shines through every story. I never expected to care about the fate of wild dingoes or rare ravine orchids, but now I do!
Above all, Journey's End is a story of profound loss and the painful road to healing. As Kim and Taj work together to repair and "rewild" her rundown farm, they gradually learn to let go of their grief and open their hearts to new love. It's a tender and touching romance with a hero to swoon over, but you'll find no steamy sex scenes here. Your imagination will supply the rest!
This book contains no foul language (I think there's one "damned") and is suitable for all ages. Journey's End is right near the top of my "Best I've ever read" list. Highly recommended.
Honestly, just when I think this author can't possibly surpass herself, she does! I'm running out of superlatives to describe her books. Like all the others, Journey's End is a breathtaking, can't-put-it-down experience, filled with true-to-life characters (including the animals!), an enthralling setting and a suspenseful plot with a perfect Happily Ever After ending.
I've learned so much about Australia's plants and animals from reading Ms. Scoullar's descriptive, impeccably researched books. Her passion for protecting and restoring Australia's natural environment shines through every story. I never expected to care about the fate of wild dingoes or rare ravine orchids, but now I do!
Above all, Journey's End is a story of profound loss and the painful road to healing. As Kim and Taj work together to repair and "rewild" her rundown farm, they gradually learn to let go of their grief and open their hearts to new love. It's a tender and touching romance with a hero to swoon over, but you'll find no steamy sex scenes here. Your imagination will supply the rest!
This book contains no foul language (I think there's one "damned") and is suitable for all ages. Journey's End is right near the top of my "Best I've ever read" list. Highly recommended.
February 6, 2021
Just as Kim Sullivan and her family were getting excited that Connor, their husband and father was coming home to stay from serving in Afganistan, an army Captain stood on her doorstep to give her the devastating news that Connor had been killed in a roadside bombing.
Two years later and Kim was still struggling to get her life back together, and her children were having troubles coping - particularly Jake who was the eldest and missed his Dad terribly. Jake had been moody and acting out and also struggling with school.
So Kim decided to take 12 months leave from her job and go to Journey's End which is a property on the Great Eastern Escarpment, which was left to Connor and herself by Connor's uncle. Her plan is to go there, organise getting some work done on the run down house, and then sell the property.
The stay ends being a year and Kim decides to rewild the property as this was the Plan Connor and herself were going to do originally. Whilst there they all start to heal and Kim meets neighbour Taj. They have a strong connection and Kim feels like she could love again, but Taj has a tragic past of his own to deal with. Will they work things out??
Two years later and Kim was still struggling to get her life back together, and her children were having troubles coping - particularly Jake who was the eldest and missed his Dad terribly. Jake had been moody and acting out and also struggling with school.
So Kim decided to take 12 months leave from her job and go to Journey's End which is a property on the Great Eastern Escarpment, which was left to Connor and herself by Connor's uncle. Her plan is to go there, organise getting some work done on the run down house, and then sell the property.
The stay ends being a year and Kim decides to rewild the property as this was the Plan Connor and herself were going to do originally. Whilst there they all start to heal and Kim meets neighbour Taj. They have a strong connection and Kim feels like she could love again, but Taj has a tragic past of his own to deal with. Will they work things out??
October 19, 2017
Jennifer Scoullar's books always have a strong element of environmental issues underpinning the plot and 'Journey's End' is no different. This time round, a young widow Kim moves to a rundown farm near a small country town in a beautiful area rich in old growth forests and wildlife. We learn about re-wilding properties, dingoes, wildlife corridors and native plants, which I throughly enjoyed. I also enjoyed seeing her children grow and develop once they were in the country environment. I got annoyed with Kim's intransigence and refusal to move on, but as I have never been in Kim's position it may well be realistic. I also thought the author manipulated the townspeople a bit as one minute the town welcomes them, then they hate them, then they accept them again. The romance was all too predictable but the character of Taj as an Afghan translator in the war was interesting.
April 16, 2019
A nice tale of loss and hope with life
Journey’s End starts out on a sad note when the main character, Kim, loses both her husband and her dog. This is her story of bouncing back and taking ownership of the land that she and her husband planned to go back to: Journey’s End. The story is beautifully written and describes the area wonderfully. (There is some Australian lingo but context clues helped me figure out what it meant.) The love story was sweet and not overly sex crazed like most romance stories are nowadays. It felt a little long at times but was interesting enough to keep going. Overall, it was a sweet story.
Journey’s End starts out on a sad note when the main character, Kim, loses both her husband and her dog. This is her story of bouncing back and taking ownership of the land that she and her husband planned to go back to: Journey’s End. The story is beautifully written and describes the area wonderfully. (There is some Australian lingo but context clues helped me figure out what it meant.) The love story was sweet and not overly sex crazed like most romance stories are nowadays. It felt a little long at times but was interesting enough to keep going. Overall, it was a sweet story.
Read
August 13, 2019There's something about Scoullar's writing - it's so smooooth. I read this in one sitting. Her love of Australian nature and a balanced ecosystem comes through so strongly and authentically, as does her disdain for those who would destroy it. Just a pleasure to read.
CONTENT NOTE . There's a HEA, but I wouldn't really classify this Romance; more Romantic Elements.
CONTENT NOTE . There's a HEA, but I wouldn't really classify this Romance; more Romantic Elements.
April 3, 2019
Draws you in immediately and gets better throughout....an emotional story of grieving and finally moving on with life everyone can identify with some part of this book
Draws you in immediately and gets better throughout...an emotional story of grieving and finally letting go..a story anyone can relate to
Draws you in immediately and gets better throughout...an emotional story of grieving and finally letting go..a story anyone can relate to
April 6, 2019
Interesting story which takes place in Australia. Kim lost her husband while in the Afghanistan war. Lost and in pain, she goes to the home she and her husband would have gone back to along with Abbey and Jake, her two children. Opening up her heart to love again while learning about her new home changes Kim, Abbey and Jake.
A little slow at times, but an enjoyable read.
A little slow at times, but an enjoyable read.
January 21, 2020
Glorious read
This book has it all for me - intrigue, romance, environmental issues, serendipity and set in Australia. I loved the players. They drew emotions from deep down. What an experience! I have now read eight of Jennifer Scoullar's books and have loved them all. Eagerly waiting for more from this talented author.
This book has it all for me - intrigue, romance, environmental issues, serendipity and set in Australia. I loved the players. They drew emotions from deep down. What an experience! I have now read eight of Jennifer Scoullar's books and have loved them all. Eagerly waiting for more from this talented author.
April 1, 2019
Lost inside the past
This was a great story about a woman overcoming her grief in looking her husband and dreams and in developing new and better ones in the process. I enjoyed this one, thanks for the free read!
This was a great story about a woman overcoming her grief in looking her husband and dreams and in developing new and better ones in the process. I enjoyed this one, thanks for the free read!
July 27, 2019
Beautiful life struggles
A story of real life written so well you experience the feelings of each character. The way the characters are connected or become friends flows so smoothly it makes this book one you want to just keep reading once you get started.
A story of real life written so well you experience the feelings of each character. The way the characters are connected or become friends flows so smoothly it makes this book one you want to just keep reading once you get started.
February 7, 2025
Another Aussie author Jennifer Scoullar writes page-turning fiction about the land, people and wildlife in Australia. I love these stories that deal with the land, animals’ and the people that have made Australia the country we love to live in..
March 25, 2018
4.5 stars
Yay! A new author discovery - looking forward to reading more of Jennifer Scoullar's books.
Yay! A new author discovery - looking forward to reading more of Jennifer Scoullar's books.
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