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Barrington Series #2
Charlie's Will
"A lovely rural drama with plenty of romance and steam..." Mandy White, Australia.
Rose Gordon knew the farm would be hers when her grandfather died.
Strong and sassy, Rose is the sole heir to five generations of cattle country and the magnificent Barrington Homestead. But Charlie’s will is not as she expects and the appearance of Angus Hamilton on the day of the funeral unsettles her. Handsome and single, she's attracted to him. But can she trust him? The ongoing drought and discovering she has friends, if not family, in the small rural community complicate matters. More sinister threats lurk in the shadows. Will Rose give up city life to face the threats head on and fight for her inheritance?
Rose Gordon knew the farm would be hers when her grandfather died.
Strong and sassy, Rose is the sole heir to five generations of cattle country and the magnificent Barrington Homestead. But Charlie’s will is not as she expects and the appearance of Angus Hamilton on the day of the funeral unsettles her. Handsome and single, she's attracted to him. But can she trust him? The ongoing drought and discovering she has friends, if not family, in the small rural community complicate matters. More sinister threats lurk in the shadows. Will Rose give up city life to face the threats head on and fight for her inheritance?
274 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 4, 2020
126 people are currently reading
205 people want to read
About the author
Susan Mackie
19 books112 followersWinner of the 2025 RUBY Award for Women's Fiction with Romantic Elements (Romance Writers of Australia) for The Barrington Book Club.
"Uniquely Australian, yet told in a companionable style, reminiscent of Maeve Binchy." Julie, Goodreads & Amazon.
Romance books you'll fall in love with.
Susan Mackie writes heart-warming, character-driven romance and women's fiction. Small town stories with all the feels and a community you'll want to move to.
Every person and every place has a story to tell.
Do you drive by old homes and wonder about the lives of those that built them, lived there, loved and lost?
Writers tell such stories. Sometimes real, sometimes imagined. Often both.
"Uniquely Australian, yet told in a companionable style, reminiscent of Maeve Binchy." Julie, Goodreads & Amazon.
Romance books you'll fall in love with.
Susan Mackie writes heart-warming, character-driven romance and women's fiction. Small town stories with all the feels and a community you'll want to move to.
Every person and every place has a story to tell.
Do you drive by old homes and wonder about the lives of those that built them, lived there, loved and lost?
Writers tell such stories. Sometimes real, sometimes imagined. Often both.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 73 reviews
September 27, 2022
The setting is a rural homestead north of Sydney.
The characters are depicted as honest, hardworking types, but some can stray when tempted by corporate greed.
Rose is the strong, professional country-to city-back to country protagonist.
She meets the new local veterinarian who has a surprising and annoying stake in her inherited cattle farm. How did this occur? Why did Charlie, her loving grandfather, leave her with such a complication?
Rose has her suspicions, but is equally drawn to the charming vet.
I started this novel, which is set in rural drought-affected New South Wales, in cool Tasmania still coming out of its winter, and finished it off on a beach in tropical far North Queensland. This drove home how we have such diversity in Australia, but the story also provided some cultural familiarity.
It seemed to be a slow burner, and this concerned me at first, but then I got into the rhythm of the storyline. I started to feel I was following the characters around as they went about their daily lives and the hints of menace culminated in a very good ending.
I really enjoyed this as a holiday read.
The characters are depicted as honest, hardworking types, but some can stray when tempted by corporate greed.
Rose is the strong, professional country-to city-back to country protagonist.
She meets the new local veterinarian who has a surprising and annoying stake in her inherited cattle farm. How did this occur? Why did Charlie, her loving grandfather, leave her with such a complication?
Rose has her suspicions, but is equally drawn to the charming vet.
I started this novel, which is set in rural drought-affected New South Wales, in cool Tasmania still coming out of its winter, and finished it off on a beach in tropical far North Queensland. This drove home how we have such diversity in Australia, but the story also provided some cultural familiarity.
It seemed to be a slow burner, and this concerned me at first, but then I got into the rhythm of the storyline. I started to feel I was following the characters around as they went about their daily lives and the hints of menace culminated in a very good ending.
I really enjoyed this as a holiday read.
September 11, 2023
Rose Gordon was devastated by her grandfather, Charlie's death. With the funeral over, and the wake seeming to contain the whole town - she knew he was well-liked and respected - Rose was planning to head to Charlie's solicitor in the morning. She fully expecting Barrington Homestead - which had been in her family for generations - to be hers, but the shock she received to learn local vet, Angus Hamilton, had been included in the will, made things a lot more complicated than Rose expected.
Rose was a city girl after leaving Barrington at eighteen, but it wasn't long before her love of the property, the land, and her horses, came back. And when she saw her best friend, Debbie, she was thrilled. But strange things were happening - had been happening while Charlie was still alive. Fences cut, gates left open, and worst of all, someone was spying on her. What was going on? And what would she decide? Would she go back to Sydney or would she stay on Barrington Homestead?
Charlie's Will is 1st in the Barrington Series by Aussie author Susan Mackie and I really enjoyed it. Set in gorgeous NSW countryside, but with drought hurting the community, the characters were well written and easy to like. I'm looking forward to the next one in the series, and recommend this one highly.
Rose was a city girl after leaving Barrington at eighteen, but it wasn't long before her love of the property, the land, and her horses, came back. And when she saw her best friend, Debbie, she was thrilled. But strange things were happening - had been happening while Charlie was still alive. Fences cut, gates left open, and worst of all, someone was spying on her. What was going on? And what would she decide? Would she go back to Sydney or would she stay on Barrington Homestead?
Charlie's Will is 1st in the Barrington Series by Aussie author Susan Mackie and I really enjoyed it. Set in gorgeous NSW countryside, but with drought hurting the community, the characters were well written and easy to like. I'm looking forward to the next one in the series, and recommend this one highly.
September 2, 2025
Charlie's Will by Susan Mackie
Synopsis /
Rose Gordon knew the farm would be hers when her grandfather died.
Strong and sassy, Rose is the sole heir to five generations of cattle country and the magnificent Barrington Homestead. But Charlie’s will is not as she expects and the appearance of Angus Hamilton on the day of the funeral unsettles her. Handsome and single, she's attracted to him. But can she trust him? The ongoing drought and discovering she has friends, if not family, in the small rural community complicate matters. More sinister threats lurk in the shadows. Will Rose give up city life to face the threats head on and fight for her inheritance?
My Thoughts /
A small town big romance story.
I don't read many rural-romance novels. Not because I don't like them, it's just not my preferred genre. But when I do dip myself into a rural-romance story it feels natural and enjoyable. Charlie's Will is my first read by Australian author, Susan Mackie and in a nutshell – was a well written contemporary rural drama with a dash of country romance.
Coming home to Barrington Homestead after the death of her grandfather, Rose Gordon realised that she was now all alone. With both her parents and grandparents now deceased and no siblings, Rose has been hit with the realisation that Barrington Homestead is the only thing left connecting her to her family.
At a meeting with her grandfather's solicitor, Rose learns that her grandfather, Charlie, had left her the Homestead, chattels and all the surrounding land in his Will, but that he'd left all of the livestock to local vet, Angus Hamilton. Not only that, he'd left provision for Angus to keep running the stock on Barrington land for the next three years. What was her grandfather thinking?
With a big beef conglomerate buying up properties in the area, Rose was told that offers were also made for Barrington. She knew that Charlie was opposed to selling but she couldn't argue that the money they were offering would certainly come in handy. There were also problems on the property – fences being cut, gates being left open – and the cattle getting out. There were rumours around that is was the conglomerate – but non-one really knew for sure.
There is plenty to enjoy in Charlie's Will:
🧑🏫The characters – Rose is a capable, intelligent woman making a career in publishing in the City, but will always be a country girl at heart.
👨⚕️As a country vet Angus is, as you'd imagine, caring, protective, thoughtful and yes, handsome!
☕The local coffee shop is called "Coffee is my Calling" – as a coffee lover I can appreciate that name!
🐶🐴Pets – Ruff the dog and Topper the horse tugged at my heartstrings.
I enjoyed my time visiting Rose and her friends and will definitely spend more time with them in the future.
Synopsis /
Rose Gordon knew the farm would be hers when her grandfather died.
Strong and sassy, Rose is the sole heir to five generations of cattle country and the magnificent Barrington Homestead. But Charlie’s will is not as she expects and the appearance of Angus Hamilton on the day of the funeral unsettles her. Handsome and single, she's attracted to him. But can she trust him? The ongoing drought and discovering she has friends, if not family, in the small rural community complicate matters. More sinister threats lurk in the shadows. Will Rose give up city life to face the threats head on and fight for her inheritance?
My Thoughts /
A small town big romance story.
I don't read many rural-romance novels. Not because I don't like them, it's just not my preferred genre. But when I do dip myself into a rural-romance story it feels natural and enjoyable. Charlie's Will is my first read by Australian author, Susan Mackie and in a nutshell – was a well written contemporary rural drama with a dash of country romance.
Coming home to Barrington Homestead after the death of her grandfather, Rose Gordon realised that she was now all alone. With both her parents and grandparents now deceased and no siblings, Rose has been hit with the realisation that Barrington Homestead is the only thing left connecting her to her family.
At a meeting with her grandfather's solicitor, Rose learns that her grandfather, Charlie, had left her the Homestead, chattels and all the surrounding land in his Will, but that he'd left all of the livestock to local vet, Angus Hamilton. Not only that, he'd left provision for Angus to keep running the stock on Barrington land for the next three years. What was her grandfather thinking?
With a big beef conglomerate buying up properties in the area, Rose was told that offers were also made for Barrington. She knew that Charlie was opposed to selling but she couldn't argue that the money they were offering would certainly come in handy. There were also problems on the property – fences being cut, gates being left open – and the cattle getting out. There were rumours around that is was the conglomerate – but non-one really knew for sure.
There is plenty to enjoy in Charlie's Will:
🧑🏫The characters – Rose is a capable, intelligent woman making a career in publishing in the City, but will always be a country girl at heart.
👨⚕️As a country vet Angus is, as you'd imagine, caring, protective, thoughtful and yes, handsome!
☕The local coffee shop is called "Coffee is my Calling" – as a coffee lover I can appreciate that name!
🐶🐴Pets – Ruff the dog and Topper the horse tugged at my heartstrings.
I enjoyed my time visiting Rose and her friends and will definitely spend more time with them in the future.
April 18, 2021
Charlie's Will was a lovely rural drama with plenty of romance and steam from Australian author Susan Mackie.
It was refreshing story of a small town and those who live there. All is not always as it seems, as Rose discovers when she returns to her childhood home of Barrington for her last remaining relative's funeral. She loved Charlie and is devastated by his death. She fully expects to inherit everything but has a shock when another is named as well. Who is this Angus Hamilton? She doesn't know him so how can he possibly have a stake in the farm? As well as this she has to contend with somebody cutting her fence lines and somebody watching the homestead?
Is this the life that she really wants or should she just sell and move back to Sydney?
I look forward to going back to Barrington soon for book 2! Thank you Susan for so kindly sending me a copy of your book.
It was refreshing story of a small town and those who live there. All is not always as it seems, as Rose discovers when she returns to her childhood home of Barrington for her last remaining relative's funeral. She loved Charlie and is devastated by his death. She fully expects to inherit everything but has a shock when another is named as well. Who is this Angus Hamilton? She doesn't know him so how can he possibly have a stake in the farm? As well as this she has to contend with somebody cutting her fence lines and somebody watching the homestead?
Is this the life that she really wants or should she just sell and move back to Sydney?
I look forward to going back to Barrington soon for book 2! Thank you Susan for so kindly sending me a copy of your book.
October 22, 2021
⭐️4.5 Stars⭐️
Charlie's Will by Susan Mackie is an exceptionally well written, easy flowing and intriguing Aussie rural romance mystery. This was one of those stories I was really drawn into and couldn’t put down. It’s a highly enjoyable read and I fell in love getting to know all the characters, the animals and picturing the rural scenes. It certainly has all the feels and just look at the gorgeous artwork on the book cover.
🍃🌹🍃Strong-willed Rose Gordon returns to her hometown when her beloved grandfather Charlie dies. She thought she would inherit the grand old homestead as she is Charlie’s only remaining relative.
🍃🌹🍃When the will is read Rose is in for somewhat of a surprise. Who is this person named Angus Hamilton that her grandfather was so fond of that he’s written him into the will, and why? Can Angus be trusted?
🍃🌹🍃There are twists and turns and secrets to discover……danger and just a touch of steamy romance in this story, I don’t want to give away any spoilers!
Susan is an independent Aussie author and this book is definitely one to add to your TBR list. I can’t wait to read Susan’s soon to be released next book in the Barrington series - A Place To Start Over. You can find Susan’s books at susanmackie.com alternatively the ebook’s are available at Amazon.
Thank you so much Susan Mackie for sending me a copy of your book
Charlie's Will by Susan Mackie is an exceptionally well written, easy flowing and intriguing Aussie rural romance mystery. This was one of those stories I was really drawn into and couldn’t put down. It’s a highly enjoyable read and I fell in love getting to know all the characters, the animals and picturing the rural scenes. It certainly has all the feels and just look at the gorgeous artwork on the book cover.
🍃🌹🍃Strong-willed Rose Gordon returns to her hometown when her beloved grandfather Charlie dies. She thought she would inherit the grand old homestead as she is Charlie’s only remaining relative.
🍃🌹🍃When the will is read Rose is in for somewhat of a surprise. Who is this person named Angus Hamilton that her grandfather was so fond of that he’s written him into the will, and why? Can Angus be trusted?
🍃🌹🍃There are twists and turns and secrets to discover……danger and just a touch of steamy romance in this story, I don’t want to give away any spoilers!
Susan is an independent Aussie author and this book is definitely one to add to your TBR list. I can’t wait to read Susan’s soon to be released next book in the Barrington series - A Place To Start Over. You can find Susan’s books at susanmackie.com alternatively the ebook’s are available at Amazon.
Thank you so much Susan Mackie for sending me a copy of your book
October 15, 2025
Rose Gordon is upset when her grandfather Charlie's dies, her job at a publishing company in Sydney has kept her from visiting him more often and she feels guilty. People come from everywhere to attend his funeral and the CWA ladies put on a good spread at his wake.
Rose is the sole heir to Barrington Homestead, it’s been in the family for five generations and she plans on seeing the solicitor the next day. Rose is shocked to discover, the new vet Angus Hamilton is included in the will and listed as a beneficiary. This throws a spanner in the works, they didn’t get off to a great start at the funeral and she wonders if he’s trustworthy?
Rose soon slips back into her old life, taking care of the property, horses and her grandfather’s cattle dog Ruff. Rose is very happy to catch up with her best friend, Debbie, she’s opened a coffee shop in town and marrying Jamie Tait.
The area has been in severe drought for three years, fences have been cut, gates left open, stock let out and she feels like someone is watching her, could it be just teenagers mucking around or something more sinister?
Charlie’s Will by Susan Mackie is the second book in the Barrington Series, I enjoy reading Australian rural fiction and I liked how Rose took on the challenges she faced, reconnected with the community and helped teenager Freddie Campbell.
The sparks flew between Rose and Angus, he’s handsome, a great guy, and a hero, what more could you want in a leading male character and the perfect romantic interest for Rose and I can’t wait to read the next book A Place to Start Over.
Four and a half stars from me and I highly recommend.
Rose is the sole heir to Barrington Homestead, it’s been in the family for five generations and she plans on seeing the solicitor the next day. Rose is shocked to discover, the new vet Angus Hamilton is included in the will and listed as a beneficiary. This throws a spanner in the works, they didn’t get off to a great start at the funeral and she wonders if he’s trustworthy?
Rose soon slips back into her old life, taking care of the property, horses and her grandfather’s cattle dog Ruff. Rose is very happy to catch up with her best friend, Debbie, she’s opened a coffee shop in town and marrying Jamie Tait.
The area has been in severe drought for three years, fences have been cut, gates left open, stock let out and she feels like someone is watching her, could it be just teenagers mucking around or something more sinister?
Charlie’s Will by Susan Mackie is the second book in the Barrington Series, I enjoy reading Australian rural fiction and I liked how Rose took on the challenges she faced, reconnected with the community and helped teenager Freddie Campbell.
The sparks flew between Rose and Angus, he’s handsome, a great guy, and a hero, what more could you want in a leading male character and the perfect romantic interest for Rose and I can’t wait to read the next book A Place to Start Over.
Four and a half stars from me and I highly recommend.
November 2, 2021
This is a page turner of a book, a lovely rural romance with a fair bit of suspense thrown in, a gorgeous hero and a heroine who is strong and beautiful, Rose Gordon has returned home to Barrington the property that has been in the Gordon family for ever after the death of her beloved gramps the last of her family to discover that the will has an added stipulation that rocks Rose big time, how will her and Angus Hamilton get on, who is he really, come along for the journey and see.
Rose is devastated when her gramps passes away, it is a while since she has been home and she feels bad about it, she has been living and working in Sydney but as soon as she gets back to Barrington she feels truly home. The drought has caused many problems for the local property owners and with a big beef consortium buying the properties and there have been problems round Barrington, but her biggest problem is Angus who is now going to be a big part of Barrington she doesn’t want to feel anything for him but can’t help her feelings.
Angus is the local vet and had built up a friendship with Charlie Gordon, they had become good friends and Charlie worried about his granddaughter Rose and set is new will up to help her keep the family property as best he could, but Angus is drawn to the feisty beautiful woman and as they get closer there seems to be a lot pulling her back as well.
Trouble is brewing at Barrington and no one can work out who the culprit is only that Rose seems to be in danger, Angus stays as close he can but with rumours telling Rose totally different stories about Angus their journey to a HEA is fraught with many ups and downs and lots of danger.
I loved seeing Rose and Angus find their HEA a lot was put in place to stop them but in the end love won through and I was cheering them one. This is a fast paced story filled with love, emotion and danger, Susan Mackie has bought her characters to life on the pages, made them real and easy to be friends with, I do highly recommend this one and I am looking forward to book two in this series another trip to Barrington will be fabulous.
Rose is devastated when her gramps passes away, it is a while since she has been home and she feels bad about it, she has been living and working in Sydney but as soon as she gets back to Barrington she feels truly home. The drought has caused many problems for the local property owners and with a big beef consortium buying the properties and there have been problems round Barrington, but her biggest problem is Angus who is now going to be a big part of Barrington she doesn’t want to feel anything for him but can’t help her feelings.
Angus is the local vet and had built up a friendship with Charlie Gordon, they had become good friends and Charlie worried about his granddaughter Rose and set is new will up to help her keep the family property as best he could, but Angus is drawn to the feisty beautiful woman and as they get closer there seems to be a lot pulling her back as well.
Trouble is brewing at Barrington and no one can work out who the culprit is only that Rose seems to be in danger, Angus stays as close he can but with rumours telling Rose totally different stories about Angus their journey to a HEA is fraught with many ups and downs and lots of danger.
I loved seeing Rose and Angus find their HEA a lot was put in place to stop them but in the end love won through and I was cheering them one. This is a fast paced story filled with love, emotion and danger, Susan Mackie has bought her characters to life on the pages, made them real and easy to be friends with, I do highly recommend this one and I am looking forward to book two in this series another trip to Barrington will be fabulous.
November 15, 2025
Second time read through
Sweet, gorgeous, emotional 😢.
Loved it Rose returns home after her grandfather dies.
But was it accidental or something else?
And Angus the local vet their is chemistry between them but it's complicated.
Will she stay or go back to the city, and who is trying to make waves for her.
What a stunning read.
Sweet, gorgeous, emotional 😢.
Loved it Rose returns home after her grandfather dies.
But was it accidental or something else?
And Angus the local vet their is chemistry between them but it's complicated.
Will she stay or go back to the city, and who is trying to make waves for her.
What a stunning read.
October 13, 2020
Fantastic rural romance. Loved the characters, Rose is feisty and knows what she wants and Angus, well he’s the dreamy town vet. Loved the setting and the grand old homestead of Barrington. Lots of obstacles on the road to love with a nice mix of mystery. Looking forward to the next in the series.
March 8, 2024
With no other living relatives, Rose Gordon is set to solely inherit Barrington Homestead when her grandfather Charlie passes... or so, she thinks. When Charlie's will is read out, there's a turn of circumstances that initially infuriates Rose. Dreamy local vet, Angus Hamilton, is named as co-heir. Why? Rose knows absolutely nothing about Angus nor his intentions for the property. For all she knows, he could be working for the company that has been sniffing around, trying to purchase such a hot commodity.
Even so, she really shouldn't be attracted to Angus in such a way. All the locals insist that he's one of the good guys, but can Rose really trust him? With someone intentionally cutting fences and scaring Rose to bits late at night, she's got reason to suspect that someone is targeting her.
Charlie was very clear about the terms and conditions. Will Rose choose to sell up with the ghosts of her family haunting the walls? Or fight for the only place she's ever called home, effectively throwing in the life she's built up in Sydney? It's a major dilemma, one only Rose can face.
I've been meaning to read Charlie's Will for such a long time, but 6 got around to it until now. Thanks to my local library for having a copy that was instantly available! This was a beautiful rural romance that had the right amount of mystery and suspense blended in. Oh, and the sexy times between Rose and Angus made me a bit flustered. I'm just saying 😏.
I really hated Greg from the get-go. He's such an untrustworthy, swarmy man who won't take no for an answer. It's absolutely unfathomable that in this day and age, he thinks it's okay to intimidate and control women, mainly for his own sexual gain. Rose is right to give him more than give him a few pretty brutal injuries! Ugh. He's not very nice at all.
Loved all the other characters, though, even Melanie, in the end. Her story is so sad and plays a major part in events. Oh, and all the various animals made me smile, especially the horses. I wept when Charlie's trusty dog Ruff was attacked. Spoilers.
I can't wait to catch up with the rest of the series now!
4.75 🌟
Even so, she really shouldn't be attracted to Angus in such a way. All the locals insist that he's one of the good guys, but can Rose really trust him? With someone intentionally cutting fences and scaring Rose to bits late at night, she's got reason to suspect that someone is targeting her.
Charlie was very clear about the terms and conditions. Will Rose choose to sell up with the ghosts of her family haunting the walls? Or fight for the only place she's ever called home, effectively throwing in the life she's built up in Sydney? It's a major dilemma, one only Rose can face.
I've been meaning to read Charlie's Will for such a long time, but 6 got around to it until now. Thanks to my local library for having a copy that was instantly available! This was a beautiful rural romance that had the right amount of mystery and suspense blended in. Oh, and the sexy times between Rose and Angus made me a bit flustered. I'm just saying 😏.
I really hated Greg from the get-go. He's such an untrustworthy, swarmy man who won't take no for an answer. It's absolutely unfathomable that in this day and age, he thinks it's okay to intimidate and control women, mainly for his own sexual gain. Rose is right to give him more than give him a few pretty brutal injuries! Ugh. He's not very nice at all.
Loved all the other characters, though, even Melanie, in the end. Her story is so sad and plays a major part in events. Oh, and all the various animals made me smile, especially the horses. I wept when Charlie's trusty dog Ruff was attacked. Spoilers.
I can't wait to catch up with the rest of the series now!
4.75 🌟
September 8, 2023
This is a book I've had for about a year and just got to reading but I wish I hadn't waited so long.. the only benefit may be that we may be a lot closer to book two of the Barrington series.
I'm hoping so because I really fell in love with Rose Gordon and the lovely Dr. Angus Hamilton and in fact, the whole community and I can't wait see what the future holds for them!
When Rose's grandfather, Charlie passes away she becomes heir to the grand old Barrington Homestead but when Charlie's Will is read there are some terms and conditions in it and a surprise co-heir! Angus Hamilton! How did he worm his way into Charlie's Will? Rose doesn't know what to think and if she can trust Angus. Is he part of the consortium trying to purchase the land? Is that why he made his way into Charlie's life and will?
Then there is the big man hiding in the shadows of Barrington scaring Rose out of her boots! Charlie never told Rose about the cutting of the fences but Rose now wonders if it was a big plan to scare Charlie away... but did someone scare Charlie to his death instead?
A beautifully crafted rural romance with a dash of suspense made this the perfect read! I loved the small town feel and the country characters! I love the feeling of a close knit rural community and this certainly provided just that!
I'm hoping so because I really fell in love with Rose Gordon and the lovely Dr. Angus Hamilton and in fact, the whole community and I can't wait see what the future holds for them!
When Rose's grandfather, Charlie passes away she becomes heir to the grand old Barrington Homestead but when Charlie's Will is read there are some terms and conditions in it and a surprise co-heir! Angus Hamilton! How did he worm his way into Charlie's Will? Rose doesn't know what to think and if she can trust Angus. Is he part of the consortium trying to purchase the land? Is that why he made his way into Charlie's life and will?
Then there is the big man hiding in the shadows of Barrington scaring Rose out of her boots! Charlie never told Rose about the cutting of the fences but Rose now wonders if it was a big plan to scare Charlie away... but did someone scare Charlie to his death instead?
A beautifully crafted rural romance with a dash of suspense made this the perfect read! I loved the small town feel and the country characters! I love the feeling of a close knit rural community and this certainly provided just that!
September 21, 2023
Charlie's Will is the first book in the Barrington series by Susan Mackie. I first read this story three years ago, loved it then, still love it.
Barrington homestead has been in the Gordon family for three generations. Having lost both her parents earlier, Rose Gordon inherited Barrington after the loss of her beloved grandfather, Charlie. But, Rose's inheritance is not straight forward as she finds out when she meets Angus Hamilton on the day of her grandfather's funeral.
What hold did Angus have over her grandfather? And who is threatening the Barrington homestead and Rose herself?
A strong and independent woman, Rose is determined to discover the truth.
If you haven't read Susan Mackie's Barrington series, treat yourself, you will love them. Country people, strong and supportive, caring for family, friends and neighbours in good times and bad.
Barrington homestead has been in the Gordon family for three generations. Having lost both her parents earlier, Rose Gordon inherited Barrington after the loss of her beloved grandfather, Charlie. But, Rose's inheritance is not straight forward as she finds out when she meets Angus Hamilton on the day of her grandfather's funeral.
What hold did Angus have over her grandfather? And who is threatening the Barrington homestead and Rose herself?
A strong and independent woman, Rose is determined to discover the truth.
If you haven't read Susan Mackie's Barrington series, treat yourself, you will love them. Country people, strong and supportive, caring for family, friends and neighbours in good times and bad.
July 7, 2022
I have just closed the hard copy book of ‘Charlie’s Will.’
Susan Mackie has produced a wonderful, well written and authentic Australian story, indulging the readers with romance, suspense, warm and inviting country scenes.
I loved it! One minute I was in love, and the next I was chomping at the bit to see what happened next.
Rose is a beautiful character whom many can relate, and her quirks and stubbornness are very down to earth and real! So well relatable.
Angus is just as equally beautiful, in a manly way, and he is such a loving, big hearted man who truly makes the story.
The twist and turns in this book are very well written, and I’m so happy I stumbled upon it.
100% recommend this read, and I will now open the next book in the series: A Place to Start Over.
Susan Mackie has produced a wonderful, well written and authentic Australian story, indulging the readers with romance, suspense, warm and inviting country scenes.
I loved it! One minute I was in love, and the next I was chomping at the bit to see what happened next.
Rose is a beautiful character whom many can relate, and her quirks and stubbornness are very down to earth and real! So well relatable.
Angus is just as equally beautiful, in a manly way, and he is such a loving, big hearted man who truly makes the story.
The twist and turns in this book are very well written, and I’m so happy I stumbled upon it.
100% recommend this read, and I will now open the next book in the series: A Place to Start Over.
November 7, 2022
Great read. Great characters. Looking forward to the next instalment.
March 30, 2023
Charlie's Will
Barrington Book One
Susan Mackie
Review
Things I loved about this book – the setting, a country town and a cattle homestead
the characters – Rose is a capable, intelligent young woman with a career in Publishing but she is a country girl at heart.
Angus – handsome, caring, strong, protective, thoughtful.
The coffee shop - “Coffee is my Calling” owned by Rose's best friend from childhood, Deb.
Ruff the dog and Topper the horse.
One of the nice things about this story is the support Rose finds when she returns for her Grandfather's funeral. Everyone knows her and she knows everyone. She seems to slot right back into the country life she had left behind to live in Sydney. Rose has to make a decision whether she stay on the farm permanently, part-time or sell.
There is a sinister element to this story which created a good amount of drama and mystery. I did love the way the author created a sense of doubt and mistrust in regard to some characters, even some who you thought couldn't possibly be working against Rose. This added to the intrigue and maintained my full attention. The ending did provide a few surprises.
The plot was clever and just when I thought it was going to end HEA, another obstacle was thrown in our MC's path and created further doubt in my mind. It was never a dull moment in this story.
The story did move along quickly and once I began, I could have finished it in a day, if life didn't get in the way.
It was obvious the author has a knowledge of rural life and particularly life on a property. This made the story that more authentic and believable.
Overall this is captivating rural story with engaging characters, a wonderful setting, with suspense and romance. I look forward to reading the next book in this series, A Place to Start Over and see what other spells this lovely old homestead can cast over the inhabitants.
Barrington Book One
Susan Mackie
Review
Things I loved about this book – the setting, a country town and a cattle homestead
the characters – Rose is a capable, intelligent young woman with a career in Publishing but she is a country girl at heart.
Angus – handsome, caring, strong, protective, thoughtful.
The coffee shop - “Coffee is my Calling” owned by Rose's best friend from childhood, Deb.
Ruff the dog and Topper the horse.
One of the nice things about this story is the support Rose finds when she returns for her Grandfather's funeral. Everyone knows her and she knows everyone. She seems to slot right back into the country life she had left behind to live in Sydney. Rose has to make a decision whether she stay on the farm permanently, part-time or sell.
There is a sinister element to this story which created a good amount of drama and mystery. I did love the way the author created a sense of doubt and mistrust in regard to some characters, even some who you thought couldn't possibly be working against Rose. This added to the intrigue and maintained my full attention. The ending did provide a few surprises.
The plot was clever and just when I thought it was going to end HEA, another obstacle was thrown in our MC's path and created further doubt in my mind. It was never a dull moment in this story.
The story did move along quickly and once I began, I could have finished it in a day, if life didn't get in the way.
It was obvious the author has a knowledge of rural life and particularly life on a property. This made the story that more authentic and believable.
Overall this is captivating rural story with engaging characters, a wonderful setting, with suspense and romance. I look forward to reading the next book in this series, A Place to Start Over and see what other spells this lovely old homestead can cast over the inhabitants.
September 22, 2020
4.5 stars
Rose’s grandfather Charlie has just passed away. With her parents already gone, she’s due to inherit the family farm. However, Charlie’s Will is not what she expects. Why oh why has Charlie written good looking vet Angus into his Will? Can Angus be trusted, or is he secretly part of the conglomerate wrecking havoc to buy up the farms in her town at a cheap price? To find out, you’re just going to have to read Charlie’s Will!
What a delightful and lovely read Charlie’s Will was! It falls in the rural romance genre and this was initially a little concerning for me as I tend to think of romance as fluff and nonsense with little in the way of a decent plot. Thankfully, Charlie’s Will is nothing like that at all. It’s exceptionally well written and had me hooked from the start with its interesting plot that had several well timed twists. I liked that while there were romantic themes, romance certainly wasn’t the be all and end all. This gave the plot a lot of scope to carry on several storylines, which seamlessly intertwined to make for a great read across the themes of love, death, family, domestic violence, farming and friendship.
The characters were very relatable; and Mackie nails the small town personalities. Despite it being a romance book, I liked that Charlie’s Will has a touch of whodunnit. Whilst I was able to guess the baddie early on; I liked that the characters had a lot of depth and were written in a way that I did doubt my guess a couple of times.
I was really impressed with Charlie’s Will and am very excited that it’s the first in a Barrington Homestead series. Whilst the book ended on a good note, there’s more I’d like to know; as this book has some great characters that definitely have more to give.
To play along with my book bingo and to see what else I’m reading, go to #ktbookbingo and @kt_elder on Instagram.
Rose’s grandfather Charlie has just passed away. With her parents already gone, she’s due to inherit the family farm. However, Charlie’s Will is not what she expects. Why oh why has Charlie written good looking vet Angus into his Will? Can Angus be trusted, or is he secretly part of the conglomerate wrecking havoc to buy up the farms in her town at a cheap price? To find out, you’re just going to have to read Charlie’s Will!
What a delightful and lovely read Charlie’s Will was! It falls in the rural romance genre and this was initially a little concerning for me as I tend to think of romance as fluff and nonsense with little in the way of a decent plot. Thankfully, Charlie’s Will is nothing like that at all. It’s exceptionally well written and had me hooked from the start with its interesting plot that had several well timed twists. I liked that while there were romantic themes, romance certainly wasn’t the be all and end all. This gave the plot a lot of scope to carry on several storylines, which seamlessly intertwined to make for a great read across the themes of love, death, family, domestic violence, farming and friendship.
The characters were very relatable; and Mackie nails the small town personalities. Despite it being a romance book, I liked that Charlie’s Will has a touch of whodunnit. Whilst I was able to guess the baddie early on; I liked that the characters had a lot of depth and were written in a way that I did doubt my guess a couple of times.
I was really impressed with Charlie’s Will and am very excited that it’s the first in a Barrington Homestead series. Whilst the book ended on a good note, there’s more I’d like to know; as this book has some great characters that definitely have more to give.
To play along with my book bingo and to see what else I’m reading, go to #ktbookbingo and @kt_elder on Instagram.
November 14, 2023
Charlie's Will - Barrington Book 1, "Do you drive by old houses and wonder about the lives of those that built them, lived there, loved and lost? Writers tell such stories. Sometimes real, sometimes imagined. Often both." - Susan Mackie.
Coming back home for her grandfathers funeral, Rose Gordon thought that Charlie's Will would be easy, Afterall she was the only heir to the five generation cattle farm. However Charlie knew Rose would need more time, reconnecting with old friends and the ever unsetting feeling that someone is out to get her. Did Charlie know Rose would have a fight on her hands? was Charlie being harassed to give up his farm? What was Angus Hamilton up to and why should she trust him, an why did Charlie trust him so much?
I thoroughly enjoyed 'Charlie's Will' there is an overwhelming sense of community and freedom within the pages of the novel. Even the sense of community is more family like friendships, making you overlook the seemingly helpfully characters. The plot twist will have you second guessing and rereading to make sure you didn't misread that last chapter. Rose is a sassy, strong-willed and confidence young women, making her easy to relate and connected with, she not afraid to put big, loud mouth men back in their box. 'Charlie's Will' will have you crying, holding your breath and exclaiming "FINALLY" as you turn the pages.
I read this novel in two days, I struggle to put it down and found any excuse to sit and read an with 4 kids that's not always easy to do. It literally took over my life. Susan Mackie's Books are fast becoming my favorite for many reason.
Find more of my reviews at www.aimeeauthor.com.au
Coming back home for her grandfathers funeral, Rose Gordon thought that Charlie's Will would be easy, Afterall she was the only heir to the five generation cattle farm. However Charlie knew Rose would need more time, reconnecting with old friends and the ever unsetting feeling that someone is out to get her. Did Charlie know Rose would have a fight on her hands? was Charlie being harassed to give up his farm? What was Angus Hamilton up to and why should she trust him, an why did Charlie trust him so much?
I thoroughly enjoyed 'Charlie's Will' there is an overwhelming sense of community and freedom within the pages of the novel. Even the sense of community is more family like friendships, making you overlook the seemingly helpfully characters. The plot twist will have you second guessing and rereading to make sure you didn't misread that last chapter. Rose is a sassy, strong-willed and confidence young women, making her easy to relate and connected with, she not afraid to put big, loud mouth men back in their box. 'Charlie's Will' will have you crying, holding your breath and exclaiming "FINALLY" as you turn the pages.
I read this novel in two days, I struggle to put it down and found any excuse to sit and read an with 4 kids that's not always easy to do. It literally took over my life. Susan Mackie's Books are fast becoming my favorite for many reason.
Find more of my reviews at www.aimeeauthor.com.au
November 10, 2021
✍️ This Australian idyllic romance series follows Rose Gordon who has returned to her childhood hometown after the passing of her cherished Grandfather Charlie. Its been some time since she has been home and a few things have been amiss. She needs to sort out Charlie's will and her inheritance of Barrington Homestead of which she's co inherited with the handsome Dr Angus Hamilton who upon meeting him doesn't know if he can be trusted. There's also the matter of someone lurking outside the homestead and cutting her fence lines. So much to unearth and explore.
The first thing that captivated my attention upon commencing this beautiful story was the graceful, intelligible and eminent writing style. I couldn't put it down. I didn't want it to end. An unequivocal read. I savoured all the different themes and emotions that were conveyed throughout. Love. Lust. Anguish. Joy. The storyline was full of steamy romance, hazard, mystery as well as intrigue. I was enraptured with the characters as well as the lovely rural imagery and pictorial tale of Barrington Homestead it's animals and the portrayal of the tight knit community. I loved this book! Highly recommend.
The first thing that captivated my attention upon commencing this beautiful story was the graceful, intelligible and eminent writing style. I couldn't put it down. I didn't want it to end. An unequivocal read. I savoured all the different themes and emotions that were conveyed throughout. Love. Lust. Anguish. Joy. The storyline was full of steamy romance, hazard, mystery as well as intrigue. I was enraptured with the characters as well as the lovely rural imagery and pictorial tale of Barrington Homestead it's animals and the portrayal of the tight knit community. I loved this book! Highly recommend.
June 18, 2023
Charlie's Will depicts life in rural Australia with the constant struggle of farmers against climate, particularly long protracted droughts when many farmers are forced abandon properties which may have been in their families for generations. And one company has been eagerly buying up properties in the area. One which it has not succeeded in buying is Charlie's cattle station. It is prime real estate with its permanent water supply.
When Charlie dies, his granddaughter, Rose, a city girl returns to the homestead expecting to be the sole heir of his estate, she is shocked to learn that Charlie amended his will to include Angus, a newcomer to the area. In accordance with the will Rose might own the house and its contents but Angus appears to own much of the land. She doesn't understand why Charlie has done this, and when she learns that developers had been hounding Charlie while he was alive, she doesn't know whether to trust Angus. Is he working for them, or against them?
It's a romance but it's also an insight into rural Australia.
When Charlie dies, his granddaughter, Rose, a city girl returns to the homestead expecting to be the sole heir of his estate, she is shocked to learn that Charlie amended his will to include Angus, a newcomer to the area. In accordance with the will Rose might own the house and its contents but Angus appears to own much of the land. She doesn't understand why Charlie has done this, and when she learns that developers had been hounding Charlie while he was alive, she doesn't know whether to trust Angus. Is he working for them, or against them?
It's a romance but it's also an insight into rural Australia.
November 22, 2021
Charlie's Will is a great rural romance set on the grand old homestead of 'Barrington'.
I love the way the author, Susan always brings classic, Australian architecture and homesteads into her stories.
It's the details of the structure and insides of the homes which always interests me and the way the author describes them ~ painting a picture always of your classic Australian homestead.
Then, there's the little cute things like a horse called Calico and Linen making it extremely country!
A great small town big story set in the Australian countryside filled with drama and mystery.
I love the way the author, Susan always brings classic, Australian architecture and homesteads into her stories.
It's the details of the structure and insides of the homes which always interests me and the way the author describes them ~ painting a picture always of your classic Australian homestead.
Then, there's the little cute things like a horse called Calico and Linen making it extremely country!
A great small town big story set in the Australian countryside filled with drama and mystery.
October 3, 2021
This was the perfect Australian lockdown read. Thanks to @allbookedout_with_mj who I saw review this because it was exactly what I wanted. 👩🏻🌾
The story is based in a small country town and for someone who tries to be country and isn’t, I loved this. I wanted to drive out west and never come back. The story follows Rose as she inherits her Grandfathers homestead after he passes away. She co-inherits the house, land and cattle alongside Angus the resident vet.
It’s a love story, obviously with a bit of emotional baggage, bitter residents but also the strong ties that build these towns up. I’m excited for Susan Mackies new book which is out soon!
The story is based in a small country town and for someone who tries to be country and isn’t, I loved this. I wanted to drive out west and never come back. The story follows Rose as she inherits her Grandfathers homestead after he passes away. She co-inherits the house, land and cattle alongside Angus the resident vet.
It’s a love story, obviously with a bit of emotional baggage, bitter residents but also the strong ties that build these towns up. I’m excited for Susan Mackies new book which is out soon!
April 13, 2020
Well, firstly I can't wait for the next Barrington Book! I loved this one. Lots of twists and turns and a classic romance to boot. I really enjoyed the country town characters and their relationships. Salt of the earth people. And yes you can take the girl out of the country...but...
A wonderful first book in what I know will be a ripping series. Highly recommend.
A wonderful first book in what I know will be a ripping series. Highly recommend.
October 21, 2020
A small-town country romance - I read 'Charlie’s Will' when I was on holidays and it was just what I needed. An easy read with lovable country characters, twists and turns that kept me reading until the last page and a beautiful romance that is perfect for holiday reading. Thank you Susan Mackie for the first book in the Barrington Book series - I look foward to the next one.
July 8, 2022
Susan Mackie creates strong and captivating characters in her debut novel. You are instantly drawn into the story and the mystery of Charlie’s Will. A beautiful love story set in rural Australia. This is a tale of strength and resilience. I really enjoyed reading this and found myself unable to put it down.
November 11, 2023
I liked the story a lot, especially the part in the countryside. It kept me interested from the beginning to the end. The author tells the story really well, and everything fits together smoothly. It's just a really good story with nice scenes that make reading it fun.
April 25, 2021
Couldn’t put it down.
Enjoyed the book from the first chapter to the last. Romance, mystery, family, and farm animals all together make a great story!
Enjoyed the book from the first chapter to the last. Romance, mystery, family, and farm animals all together make a great story!
November 11, 2023
This was a heart gripping story. It had me turning the pages all night long. It gripped my heart from the first page with the death of Rose's grandfather. Then the back and forth with Angus. The situations were real and touched home in alot of ways for me. The plot was one that came from real life it just jumps out and grabs you from the start. I loved the characters they were well developed and displayed emotions well. I am looking forward to the next book in the series. I highly recommend this book. Thank you again Susan for the wonderful read.
August 25, 2021
Captivating, heartfelt, suspenseful and a wonderfully crafted plot. Charlie's Will is a page turner!
Charlie's Will is a small town romance novel set in Barrington, NSW Australia. Rose returns to her hometown when her grandfather, Charlie passes away. She returns to the beautiful Barrington Homestead and the beloved animals living there. She is shocked to realise that her grandfather's will is not as simple as expected and also includes local vet, Angus Hamilton. Rose does not trust Angus at first and wants to know why her grandfather placed his trust in him. Moving back to the homestead, Rose is threatened and someone is lurking around the property. Soon Rose realises that the threats could have something to do with the company attempting to buy the majority of farms in the area. Charlie was aware of the threats and refused to sell the Barrington Homestead. Rose has big decisions to make about her future and whether or not she will keep the home that has been in their family for generations.
Susan Mackie's quote at the beginning intrigued me; 'Do you drive by old homes and wonder about the lives of those that built them, lived there, loved and lost?' I often look at heritage homes and wonder about the history and the people who lived there. The Barrington Homestead is magnificent. Susan's descriptions of the home and farm make me want to move to a property and enjoy the sprawling vistas that we read about. The home has secrets and stories to tell that Rose must discover, in order to understand Charlie's will. Susan paints a picture of a close knit community that will go to any lengths to help one another. The characters who knew Charlie best are caring, comforting and patient, just as he is depicted to have been. I enjoyed getting to know them all.
I love to read stories where the main characters have a love of animals. Angus shares his love of animals with Rose, who slides back into farmlife with ease. Rose knows horses and I enjoyed reading about the rides taken and landscape appreciated along the way. Barrington is a beautiful place and it makes me want to visit again someday.
I would highly recommend Charlie's Will, with its steamy romance, twists and turns and small town charm. Susan's short story 'Love in the Ragged Mountain Ranges' was heartfelt, compassionate and tender and also set in Barrington. I was very excited to read Charlie's Will after reading Susan's short story. Susan writes beautiful stories and it is obvious through her characters that she has a love of animals. I can't wait to read the next installment of the Barrington series!
Charlie's Will is a small town romance novel set in Barrington, NSW Australia. Rose returns to her hometown when her grandfather, Charlie passes away. She returns to the beautiful Barrington Homestead and the beloved animals living there. She is shocked to realise that her grandfather's will is not as simple as expected and also includes local vet, Angus Hamilton. Rose does not trust Angus at first and wants to know why her grandfather placed his trust in him. Moving back to the homestead, Rose is threatened and someone is lurking around the property. Soon Rose realises that the threats could have something to do with the company attempting to buy the majority of farms in the area. Charlie was aware of the threats and refused to sell the Barrington Homestead. Rose has big decisions to make about her future and whether or not she will keep the home that has been in their family for generations.
Susan Mackie's quote at the beginning intrigued me; 'Do you drive by old homes and wonder about the lives of those that built them, lived there, loved and lost?' I often look at heritage homes and wonder about the history and the people who lived there. The Barrington Homestead is magnificent. Susan's descriptions of the home and farm make me want to move to a property and enjoy the sprawling vistas that we read about. The home has secrets and stories to tell that Rose must discover, in order to understand Charlie's will. Susan paints a picture of a close knit community that will go to any lengths to help one another. The characters who knew Charlie best are caring, comforting and patient, just as he is depicted to have been. I enjoyed getting to know them all.
I love to read stories where the main characters have a love of animals. Angus shares his love of animals with Rose, who slides back into farmlife with ease. Rose knows horses and I enjoyed reading about the rides taken and landscape appreciated along the way. Barrington is a beautiful place and it makes me want to visit again someday.
I would highly recommend Charlie's Will, with its steamy romance, twists and turns and small town charm. Susan's short story 'Love in the Ragged Mountain Ranges' was heartfelt, compassionate and tender and also set in Barrington. I was very excited to read Charlie's Will after reading Susan's short story. Susan writes beautiful stories and it is obvious through her characters that she has a love of animals. I can't wait to read the next installment of the Barrington series!
August 26, 2024
'Charlie's Will' has been sitting on my TBR since last year after Susan kindly gifted me a copy, and I finally got to pick it up last week and I was instantly blown away!! I feel like it has been quite a few months since I've found myself fully absorbed by a book like this - whenever I got to pickup this book it was the highlight of my day and I found myself constantly thinking about it. I was definitely torn between wanting to smash it out or drag out finishing it so I could enjoy it for longer, and if It wasn't for uni and working I know this would be the sort of book that is completely binge worthy and I could have read it in a day.
One of the things that I loved about this book was Susan’s descriptions, and how her writing style captures the beauty of country life so well. I loved the vivid explanations of horse riding, the farm, and Debbie's cafe in particular. I also adored the suspense and mystery of the story line! One thing that I find with reading rural romance/rural fiction books sometimes Is that they can be pretty predictable at times, however I genuinely didn’t know where the story line was going with this book until the very end which made it super fun and exciting!
Lastly, another thing that I loved was the spice! If you can't already tell by my raving review of this book... I pretty much loved everything!! rural romance lovers, add this book to your TBR, you won't be disappointed by this absolute page tuner.
All in all, this book was a 5 star read for me and will definitely make it to my top books of 2022. I can't wait to read some more of Susan's books hopefully soon.
One of the things that I loved about this book was Susan’s descriptions, and how her writing style captures the beauty of country life so well. I loved the vivid explanations of horse riding, the farm, and Debbie's cafe in particular. I also adored the suspense and mystery of the story line! One thing that I find with reading rural romance/rural fiction books sometimes Is that they can be pretty predictable at times, however I genuinely didn’t know where the story line was going with this book until the very end which made it super fun and exciting!
Lastly, another thing that I loved was the spice! If you can't already tell by my raving review of this book... I pretty much loved everything!! rural romance lovers, add this book to your TBR, you won't be disappointed by this absolute page tuner.
All in all, this book was a 5 star read for me and will definitely make it to my top books of 2022. I can't wait to read some more of Susan's books hopefully soon.
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