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The Wattle Seed Inn
Three aching hearts, a ramshackle country pub and a tangled web of secrets.
PR executive Gabrielle Moreau knows she has an easy life, but when her business partner claims she lacks career passion she takes ownership of a dilapidated pub in a tiny riverside settlement to prove she can be a success without falling back on her privilege.
Eighteen months ago, Settlers Bridge stonemason Hayden Paech had it all: a job he loved, good mates and a close family. All he needed was the right woman to come along, and he was ready to settle down. But one poor choice stole that chance and he'll never risk caring for anyone again.
Living at Wurruldi Hotel for … goodness, so many years, Ilse has seen more changes of ownership than she can recall. Clinging to her failing memories, she's tired of trying to protect the property her grandparents built. With the arrival of the elegant Gabrielle Moreau, however, it seems that finally an owner may recognise the importance of recapturing the grace and dignity of Ilse's past.
For Ilse to find peace, Hayden forgiveness and Gabrielle her true passion, three aching hearts must reveal their secrets.
PR executive Gabrielle Moreau knows she has an easy life, but when her business partner claims she lacks career passion she takes ownership of a dilapidated pub in a tiny riverside settlement to prove she can be a success without falling back on her privilege.
Eighteen months ago, Settlers Bridge stonemason Hayden Paech had it all: a job he loved, good mates and a close family. All he needed was the right woman to come along, and he was ready to settle down. But one poor choice stole that chance and he'll never risk caring for anyone again.
Living at Wurruldi Hotel for … goodness, so many years, Ilse has seen more changes of ownership than she can recall. Clinging to her failing memories, she's tired of trying to protect the property her grandparents built. With the arrival of the elegant Gabrielle Moreau, however, it seems that finally an owner may recognise the importance of recapturing the grace and dignity of Ilse's past.
For Ilse to find peace, Hayden forgiveness and Gabrielle her true passion, three aching hearts must reveal their secrets.
416 pages, Paperback
First published July 2, 2021
9 people are currently reading
151 people want to read
About the author
Leonie Kelsall
9 books134 followersThough fortunate to grow up in the South Australian country – initially on the beautiful Fleurieu Peninsula in a tiny town where the school had a total enrolment of only eleven students, and later on a sheep and wheat farm in the Murraylands - in typical teen fashion, Léonie couldn't wait to hit the bright lights of the big city when she graduated.
However, a couple of years working in various government departments, including the State History Trust and the Education Department, saw her longing to make her way back to the country.
Through a circuitous route (isn't that life?) she now finds herself splitting her time between her home and professional counselling practice in the beautiful Adelaide Hills and her childhood farm. She definitely has the best of both worlds!
And, speaking of doubling up, check out
LANEY KAYE
Léonie writes outback noir/romantic suspense, super hot contemporaries and fun erotic fantasy under this pen name.
However, a couple of years working in various government departments, including the State History Trust and the Education Department, saw her longing to make her way back to the country.
Through a circuitous route (isn't that life?) she now finds herself splitting her time between her home and professional counselling practice in the beautiful Adelaide Hills and her childhood farm. She definitely has the best of both worlds!
And, speaking of doubling up, check out
LANEY KAYE
Léonie writes outback noir/romantic suspense, super hot contemporaries and fun erotic fantasy under this pen name.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 63 reviews
July 2, 2021
My word as I turned the final page. ‘Perfection!’
Gabrielle Moreau was keen to regain her passion in her renovation of the old Wurruldi Hotel on the banks of the Murray River in South Australia, which she and her fiancé Brendan Small had purchased three years prior. Now she was alone – Brendan was an ex although they were still business partners and friends. The small town of Settlers Bridge was near to Wurruldi, which was where she would base herself until she could live in the old hotel. The state of it was worse than she remembered – would she even have the ability, the skills to turn it into her dream?
When Gabrielle walked into the Settlers Bridge pub, it was crowded with locals. But she was drawn to the table of young people, one of whom was Hayden Paech, and his dog Trigger. The group were obviously close friends; consequently, Gabrielle felt completely out of place – a city girl (from Adelaide) among the local farmers – she would never be able to mix with them. But as she started work on the Wurruldi Hotel, she came to appreciate the gift from the locals who were all too willing to help. But with secrets hidden in Gabrielle’s past, plus in Hayden’s and Ilse feeling so desperately alone, would there be peace in the future for those surrounding the Wattle Seed Inn?
The Wattle Seed Inn is another brilliant read from Aussie author Leonie Kelsall’s pen, and I loved it! I adored The Farm at Peppertree Crossing and this one is no different. A well thought out and executed story, the characters were perfectly crafted. I know the area around Murray Bridge, have lived in Adelaide, and spent time on the banks of the Murray River, so it was all familiar to me. The bushes of the wattle tree on the cover with the beautiful old 1800s building behind certainly catches the eye – I love seeing the wattle coming out on the sides of the road each year. The Wattle Seed Inn is one I highly recommend.
With thanks to Allen & Unwin for my ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
Gabrielle Moreau was keen to regain her passion in her renovation of the old Wurruldi Hotel on the banks of the Murray River in South Australia, which she and her fiancé Brendan Small had purchased three years prior. Now she was alone – Brendan was an ex although they were still business partners and friends. The small town of Settlers Bridge was near to Wurruldi, which was where she would base herself until she could live in the old hotel. The state of it was worse than she remembered – would she even have the ability, the skills to turn it into her dream?
When Gabrielle walked into the Settlers Bridge pub, it was crowded with locals. But she was drawn to the table of young people, one of whom was Hayden Paech, and his dog Trigger. The group were obviously close friends; consequently, Gabrielle felt completely out of place – a city girl (from Adelaide) among the local farmers – she would never be able to mix with them. But as she started work on the Wurruldi Hotel, she came to appreciate the gift from the locals who were all too willing to help. But with secrets hidden in Gabrielle’s past, plus in Hayden’s and Ilse feeling so desperately alone, would there be peace in the future for those surrounding the Wattle Seed Inn?
The Wattle Seed Inn is another brilliant read from Aussie author Leonie Kelsall’s pen, and I loved it! I adored The Farm at Peppertree Crossing and this one is no different. A well thought out and executed story, the characters were perfectly crafted. I know the area around Murray Bridge, have lived in Adelaide, and spent time on the banks of the Murray River, so it was all familiar to me. The bushes of the wattle tree on the cover with the beautiful old 1800s building behind certainly catches the eye – I love seeing the wattle coming out on the sides of the road each year. The Wattle Seed Inn is one I highly recommend.
With thanks to Allen & Unwin for my ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
February 5, 2022
The Wattle Seed Inn is about two from different worlds who found love in a small rural community. PR executive Gabrielle Moreau needed a change of scene to prove to herself and her boyfriend that she has a career passion. To achieve her aim, Gabrielle Moreau decided to buy out her boyfriend in a shabby pub in Wurruldi. However, on arrival in Wurruldi, she realised the earthquake damaged the Inn more than Gabrielle realised. Gabrielle tries to find builders in Adelaide, and no one would come out to Wurruldi. Hayden Paech got involved with the project when a friend recommended him and his mate. However, Gabrielle and Hayden did not realise that this encounter would change their lives forever. The Wattle Seed Inn readers would continue to follow Gabrielle and Hayden to learn what happened.
The Wattle Seed Inn is another fantastic book by Leonie Kelsall. I enjoyed how Leonie Kelsall intertwined a subplot throughout The Wattle Seed Inn that kept me engaged and wondering what would happen. I love Leonie Kelsall's portrayal of her characters and their interaction throughout this book. The Wattle Seed Inn is well written and researched by Leonie Kelsall. I like Leonie Kelsall description of the settings of The Wattle Seed Inn, which allowed me to imagine being part of the book's plot.
The readers of The Wattle Seed Inn will learn about the role of stonemason and carpenter in restoring old buildings. Also, The Wattle Seed Inn readers will understand the importance of not assuming something due to their appearance.
I recommend this book.
The Wattle Seed Inn is another fantastic book by Leonie Kelsall. I enjoyed how Leonie Kelsall intertwined a subplot throughout The Wattle Seed Inn that kept me engaged and wondering what would happen. I love Leonie Kelsall's portrayal of her characters and their interaction throughout this book. The Wattle Seed Inn is well written and researched by Leonie Kelsall. I like Leonie Kelsall description of the settings of The Wattle Seed Inn, which allowed me to imagine being part of the book's plot.
The readers of The Wattle Seed Inn will learn about the role of stonemason and carpenter in restoring old buildings. Also, The Wattle Seed Inn readers will understand the importance of not assuming something due to their appearance.
I recommend this book.
December 5, 2021
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The Wattle Seed Inn by Léonie Kelsall. (2021).
PR executive Gabrielle knows she has an easy life, but after being told she lacks passion she takes ownership of a dilapidated pub in a tiny settlement to prove she can be a success without her privilege. 18 months ago Hayden had a job he loved, good mates, a close family. All he needed was the right woman. But one poor choice stole that chance and he'll never risk caring for anyone again. Ilse has lived at Wurruldi Hotel for a long time and seen ownership change a lot. With Gabrielle, it seems an owner may finally recognise the importance of recapturing grace and dignity. For Ilse to find peace, Hayden forgiveness and Gabrielle her true passion, all three must reveal their secrets.
I really enjoyed this author's debut novel last year (The Farm at Peppertree Crossing) so was keen to read this novel. I can confirm that this book is a delightful and engaging story. I think the story is best described as a contemporary fiction with some domestic drama and light romance; for those that like to know these kind of things, it does not have sex scenes (a positive or negative depending on your preferences haha). It took me a little bit to warm to Gabrielle as at the beginning she seemed like someone who was so used to wealth and privilege that she kind of looked down on some people and things. But as the book went on, I felt Gabrielle's real personality came out and she had a kind heart. There was a similar occurrence with Hayden who at the beginning seemed a bit broken and to put it blunt, a bit of a dick. However as we learn more about Hayden's history, his behaviour is explained and he slowly lowers his defences with Gabrielle. I particularly enjoyed the character of Hayden's friend Sharna and I'm hopeful she'll get her own book one day... The descriptions of the pub as its being restored were wonderful and really set the scene; I wanted to stay there in reality!
Overall, I would happily recommend this novel.
*www.facebook.com/onewomansbbr
The Wattle Seed Inn by Léonie Kelsall. (2021).
PR executive Gabrielle knows she has an easy life, but after being told she lacks passion she takes ownership of a dilapidated pub in a tiny settlement to prove she can be a success without her privilege. 18 months ago Hayden had a job he loved, good mates, a close family. All he needed was the right woman. But one poor choice stole that chance and he'll never risk caring for anyone again. Ilse has lived at Wurruldi Hotel for a long time and seen ownership change a lot. With Gabrielle, it seems an owner may finally recognise the importance of recapturing grace and dignity. For Ilse to find peace, Hayden forgiveness and Gabrielle her true passion, all three must reveal their secrets.
I really enjoyed this author's debut novel last year (The Farm at Peppertree Crossing) so was keen to read this novel. I can confirm that this book is a delightful and engaging story. I think the story is best described as a contemporary fiction with some domestic drama and light romance; for those that like to know these kind of things, it does not have sex scenes (a positive or negative depending on your preferences haha). It took me a little bit to warm to Gabrielle as at the beginning she seemed like someone who was so used to wealth and privilege that she kind of looked down on some people and things. But as the book went on, I felt Gabrielle's real personality came out and she had a kind heart. There was a similar occurrence with Hayden who at the beginning seemed a bit broken and to put it blunt, a bit of a dick. However as we learn more about Hayden's history, his behaviour is explained and he slowly lowers his defences with Gabrielle. I particularly enjoyed the character of Hayden's friend Sharna and I'm hopeful she'll get her own book one day... The descriptions of the pub as its being restored were wonderful and really set the scene; I wanted to stay there in reality!
Overall, I would happily recommend this novel.
July 1, 2021
I am not sure where to start on telling everyone how fabulous this book is, Leonie Kelsall has again written a story that is filled with emotion, wonderful characters, it is witty and fun and in a setting that I just want to move to and be with everyone. Another awesome story that is sure to pull readers in and keep them turning the pages.
Gabrielle Moreau has decided that it is time to take control of her life, she is in partnership in a top PR company and when her partner tells her that she lacks passion, Gabrielle is going to prove him wrong and takes ownership of the dilapidated hotel in the small riverside country town of Wurruldi to turn it into a fabulous B&B, not only will this show her passion it will change her life in so many ways.
Hayden Paech is a stonemason, builder and has lived in Settlers Bridge and Wurruldi for his whole life all he wanted was a woman to love and share everything with, but life didn’t turn out that way for him when a decision he made turned everything upside down. He does not plan to love again because that only causes pain when you lose them.
Ilse has lived her whole life at The Wurruldi Hotel, she has seen many changes over the years some not to her liking but the gardens were special to her as are her memories of the past but things change when the lovely Gabrielle arrives and starts bringing the hotel back to life and beautifully so, it sees her come to terms with her past as well.
Gabrielle and Hayden are drawn to each other on their first meeting, but neither were going to admit it, both have secrets that they are going to keep to themselves but before long Gabrielle is looking for builders to help renovate the hotel and Hayden is there to help and the more time they spend together the more their feelings grow, to something beautiful that they both deserves so much, of course true love doesn’t always run smoothly and they both need to open up about their past to let their love flow.
I loved this one so much, I savoured every word in this book, felt part of the community, as MS Kelsall bought the characters to life on the pages, so beautifully written. I loved Hayden and felt for him and was thrilled when he found what he needed to in his life to see him go forward with love and Gabrielle I loved seeing her leave her privileged life behind to find the true love that makes her soar and find the passion that has always been there and Ilse what at a lady there were tears from me when she found her peace again. I do highly recommend this one, it is a story not to be missed.
My thanks to Allen & Unwin for my ARC to read and review
Gabrielle Moreau has decided that it is time to take control of her life, she is in partnership in a top PR company and when her partner tells her that she lacks passion, Gabrielle is going to prove him wrong and takes ownership of the dilapidated hotel in the small riverside country town of Wurruldi to turn it into a fabulous B&B, not only will this show her passion it will change her life in so many ways.
Hayden Paech is a stonemason, builder and has lived in Settlers Bridge and Wurruldi for his whole life all he wanted was a woman to love and share everything with, but life didn’t turn out that way for him when a decision he made turned everything upside down. He does not plan to love again because that only causes pain when you lose them.
Ilse has lived her whole life at The Wurruldi Hotel, she has seen many changes over the years some not to her liking but the gardens were special to her as are her memories of the past but things change when the lovely Gabrielle arrives and starts bringing the hotel back to life and beautifully so, it sees her come to terms with her past as well.
Gabrielle and Hayden are drawn to each other on their first meeting, but neither were going to admit it, both have secrets that they are going to keep to themselves but before long Gabrielle is looking for builders to help renovate the hotel and Hayden is there to help and the more time they spend together the more their feelings grow, to something beautiful that they both deserves so much, of course true love doesn’t always run smoothly and they both need to open up about their past to let their love flow.
I loved this one so much, I savoured every word in this book, felt part of the community, as MS Kelsall bought the characters to life on the pages, so beautifully written. I loved Hayden and felt for him and was thrilled when he found what he needed to in his life to see him go forward with love and Gabrielle I loved seeing her leave her privileged life behind to find the true love that makes her soar and find the passion that has always been there and Ilse what at a lady there were tears from me when she found her peace again. I do highly recommend this one, it is a story not to be missed.
My thanks to Allen & Unwin for my ARC to read and review
June 5, 2022
I absolutely loved this story and can't believe I let it sit on my shelf for this long!!
Rich city girl meets and falls in love with country boy.
Told through the eyes of Gabrielle, a city girl with something to prove, Hayden, the country boy that has underlying demons and Ilse, family matriarch and original owner of The Wattle Seed Inn (formerly Wurruldi Hotel).
Gabrielle, having bought out her ex-fiance, is now the owner of the dilapidated Wurruldi Hotel. She has grand plans to turn it into a B & B and prove to her ex that she can do this on her own.
Hayden just wants to be left alone, he feels he can't be relied upon as he let the one person that means the most to him down. But the new girl in town as caught his eye.
Ilse loves the Wurruldi Hotel, it has been in her family for generations. She is hoping the new owner will take her advice with renovations.
I thoroughly loved being back in the small country town of Wurruldi on the Murray River and I loved the casual banter between the friends and how they eagerly included Gabrielle into their lives.
Both Gabrielle and Hayden had hidden demons that they held close preventing them from opening up and starting a relationship. Strong themes of forgiving yourself and accepting yourself are explored through these two characters.
The mysteries that surround each character weave themselves throughout the story urging the reader on, looking for answers.
Léonie Kelsall explains, through Hayden, that PTSD is not only about nightmares and panic attacks. There is also the self loathing, paranoia and catastrophising. The inclusion of the aptly named companion dog, Trigger highlighted the work of companion dogs in situations I would not have normally thought of.
I found the encounters between Ilse and Gabrielle both endearing and heart-wrenching. Kelsall writes with real emotion.
I enjoyed revisiting characters from The Farm at Peppertree Crossing as they popped in and out of the story as Kelsall included many themes around country living.
Léonie Kelsall has written another winner; heart-wrenching, endearing and full of country charm. A story of forgiveness and moving on...
*I received my copy from the publisher.
Rich city girl meets and falls in love with country boy.
Told through the eyes of Gabrielle, a city girl with something to prove, Hayden, the country boy that has underlying demons and Ilse, family matriarch and original owner of The Wattle Seed Inn (formerly Wurruldi Hotel).
Gabrielle, having bought out her ex-fiance, is now the owner of the dilapidated Wurruldi Hotel. She has grand plans to turn it into a B & B and prove to her ex that she can do this on her own.
Hayden just wants to be left alone, he feels he can't be relied upon as he let the one person that means the most to him down. But the new girl in town as caught his eye.
Ilse loves the Wurruldi Hotel, it has been in her family for generations. She is hoping the new owner will take her advice with renovations.
I thoroughly loved being back in the small country town of Wurruldi on the Murray River and I loved the casual banter between the friends and how they eagerly included Gabrielle into their lives.
Both Gabrielle and Hayden had hidden demons that they held close preventing them from opening up and starting a relationship. Strong themes of forgiving yourself and accepting yourself are explored through these two characters.
The mysteries that surround each character weave themselves throughout the story urging the reader on, looking for answers.
Léonie Kelsall explains, through Hayden, that PTSD is not only about nightmares and panic attacks. There is also the self loathing, paranoia and catastrophising. The inclusion of the aptly named companion dog, Trigger highlighted the work of companion dogs in situations I would not have normally thought of.
I found the encounters between Ilse and Gabrielle both endearing and heart-wrenching. Kelsall writes with real emotion.
I enjoyed revisiting characters from The Farm at Peppertree Crossing as they popped in and out of the story as Kelsall included many themes around country living.
Léonie Kelsall has written another winner; heart-wrenching, endearing and full of country charm. A story of forgiveness and moving on...
*I received my copy from the publisher.
July 23, 2021
*https://mrsbbookreviews.wordpress.com
South Australian country girl Léonie Kelsall makes a welcome return with her second rural fiction novel, The Wattle Seed Inn. A story of secrets, renovations, forgiveness, the past, passion and dignity, The Wattle Seed Inn is a must read for passionate followers of contemporary Australian fiction.
The Wattle Seed Inn follows Gabrielle Moreau, a woman who sees her life change when she takes on a new business venture. As the new owner of a ramshackle country pub, Gabrielle knows she has a tough job ahead. The Wattle Seed Inn also incorporates the life story of Hayden Paech, a gentle but broken man, who isn’t willing to take a risk again in the romance department. Will this stonemason find love again? Meanwhile, Ilse is a long-standing resident of the Wurruldi Hotel. Ilse has seen many changes and people over the years, but Ilse has faith in the the new owner Gabrielle, can she finally bring this relic back to life? The Wattle Seed Inn joins these three unforgettable characters together in their shared quest for restoration, harmony, unity, acceptance and dedication.
Following the success of her previous novel, Léonie Kelsall graces her readers yet again with a truly wonderful rural fiction treat. With plenty of aching hearts, tender moments, humour, revelations and appealing characters, The Wattle Seed Inn is a genuinely lovely read that I had the pleasure of indulging in during a recent mini getaway.
Told via three different viewpoints, I appreciated the shared style of narration adopted by Léonie Kelsall. Through this immersive style writing, we are able to grasp the thoughts, feelings, motivations and concerns of the three core characters of this novel. Although it is tricky to balance all three perspectives evenly, I felt like each key protagonist in The Wattle Seed Inn was able to share their story and experiences. The cast and their related interactions felt very real to me. I fully engaged with their histories and each seemed to earn a place in my heart by the close of the book.
The setting base for The Wattle Seed Inn is a fictitious creation, but Kelsall works hard to build a full and realistic picture of the area of Settlers Bridge. What emerges from Kelsall’s writing around her landscape are some truly stunning and quintessential passages surrounding rural this beautiful South Australian setting. I would dearly love to visit this part of the country, especially the Murray River region. Reading The Wattle Seed Inn cemented my desire to one day visit this breathtaking Australian locale.
While The Wattle Seed Inn has a strong a rebuilding focus in terms of places and people, it also incorporates a range of connective themes. From relationships, friendships, to taking a chance, overcoming life setbacks, acceptance, trauma and compassion, Kelsall navigates a number of key issues with an understanding approach. With an additional focus on romance, The Wattle Seed Inn is perfect for those who love to indulge in a dramatic rural romance story. This one offers plenty of happiness, fun and heartbreak. A perfect blend for rural romance fans.
With a wonderful underlining message about letting go, seizing the day and embracing all experiences on offer, The Wattle Seed Inn is encouraging read that I highly recommend.
*Thanks extended to Allen & Unwin for providing a free copy of this book for review purposes.
The Wattle Seed Inn is book #68 of the 2021 Australian Women Writers Challenge
South Australian country girl Léonie Kelsall makes a welcome return with her second rural fiction novel, The Wattle Seed Inn. A story of secrets, renovations, forgiveness, the past, passion and dignity, The Wattle Seed Inn is a must read for passionate followers of contemporary Australian fiction.
The Wattle Seed Inn follows Gabrielle Moreau, a woman who sees her life change when she takes on a new business venture. As the new owner of a ramshackle country pub, Gabrielle knows she has a tough job ahead. The Wattle Seed Inn also incorporates the life story of Hayden Paech, a gentle but broken man, who isn’t willing to take a risk again in the romance department. Will this stonemason find love again? Meanwhile, Ilse is a long-standing resident of the Wurruldi Hotel. Ilse has seen many changes and people over the years, but Ilse has faith in the the new owner Gabrielle, can she finally bring this relic back to life? The Wattle Seed Inn joins these three unforgettable characters together in their shared quest for restoration, harmony, unity, acceptance and dedication.
Following the success of her previous novel, Léonie Kelsall graces her readers yet again with a truly wonderful rural fiction treat. With plenty of aching hearts, tender moments, humour, revelations and appealing characters, The Wattle Seed Inn is a genuinely lovely read that I had the pleasure of indulging in during a recent mini getaway.
Told via three different viewpoints, I appreciated the shared style of narration adopted by Léonie Kelsall. Through this immersive style writing, we are able to grasp the thoughts, feelings, motivations and concerns of the three core characters of this novel. Although it is tricky to balance all three perspectives evenly, I felt like each key protagonist in The Wattle Seed Inn was able to share their story and experiences. The cast and their related interactions felt very real to me. I fully engaged with their histories and each seemed to earn a place in my heart by the close of the book.
The setting base for The Wattle Seed Inn is a fictitious creation, but Kelsall works hard to build a full and realistic picture of the area of Settlers Bridge. What emerges from Kelsall’s writing around her landscape are some truly stunning and quintessential passages surrounding rural this beautiful South Australian setting. I would dearly love to visit this part of the country, especially the Murray River region. Reading The Wattle Seed Inn cemented my desire to one day visit this breathtaking Australian locale.
While The Wattle Seed Inn has a strong a rebuilding focus in terms of places and people, it also incorporates a range of connective themes. From relationships, friendships, to taking a chance, overcoming life setbacks, acceptance, trauma and compassion, Kelsall navigates a number of key issues with an understanding approach. With an additional focus on romance, The Wattle Seed Inn is perfect for those who love to indulge in a dramatic rural romance story. This one offers plenty of happiness, fun and heartbreak. A perfect blend for rural romance fans.
With a wonderful underlining message about letting go, seizing the day and embracing all experiences on offer, The Wattle Seed Inn is encouraging read that I highly recommend.
*Thanks extended to Allen & Unwin for providing a free copy of this book for review purposes.
The Wattle Seed Inn is book #68 of the 2021 Australian Women Writers Challenge
July 1, 2021
Thank you Allen & Unwin and Leonie for sending us a copy to read and review.
A truly mesmerising and tender tale full of emotion, love, secrets and a crumbling country inn that needs some TLC.
Gabrielle Moreau is a driven PR executive who arrives in the small community town of Settlers Bridge after purchasing a run down country property.
Hoping to completely turn around the estate and turn it into a success, she hopes to get the happiness she wants without relying on her entitlement.
Hayden Paech is living his life the best he can after the mistakes from his past and he hopes to just get on with it and never chance those mistakes again.
Ilse has seen the old pub go through many owners for years and now she is hoping that the newest will be the breath of fresh air it needs to bring it back to life and capture the past with the renovations.
A captivating, appealing and enticing story with lots of heart, humour and community spirit.
Well written with a perfect blend and balance of drama, romance and affairs of the heart, Leonie knows how to seduce the reader into the plot.
I just love Leonie’s writing so much, it’s inviting, descriptive and particularly engaging and doesn’t shy away from the deeper, somber style of issues and themes.
While not glorifying life in the bush, she successfully illustrates that hard work is top of the list.
Featuring a solid and likeable cast while weaving a delicate yet slow burn romance against a backdrop of a dilapidated house and a welcoming rustic community.
Leonie goes deep into her characters minds making them feel more than two dimensional and coming alive in front of you.
Another entertaining read from an author who has cemented her position in the rural fiction genre and what a sensational addition Leonie is.
A truly mesmerising and tender tale full of emotion, love, secrets and a crumbling country inn that needs some TLC.
Gabrielle Moreau is a driven PR executive who arrives in the small community town of Settlers Bridge after purchasing a run down country property.
Hoping to completely turn around the estate and turn it into a success, she hopes to get the happiness she wants without relying on her entitlement.
Hayden Paech is living his life the best he can after the mistakes from his past and he hopes to just get on with it and never chance those mistakes again.
Ilse has seen the old pub go through many owners for years and now she is hoping that the newest will be the breath of fresh air it needs to bring it back to life and capture the past with the renovations.
A captivating, appealing and enticing story with lots of heart, humour and community spirit.
Well written with a perfect blend and balance of drama, romance and affairs of the heart, Leonie knows how to seduce the reader into the plot.
I just love Leonie’s writing so much, it’s inviting, descriptive and particularly engaging and doesn’t shy away from the deeper, somber style of issues and themes.
While not glorifying life in the bush, she successfully illustrates that hard work is top of the list.
Featuring a solid and likeable cast while weaving a delicate yet slow burn romance against a backdrop of a dilapidated house and a welcoming rustic community.
Leonie goes deep into her characters minds making them feel more than two dimensional and coming alive in front of you.
Another entertaining read from an author who has cemented her position in the rural fiction genre and what a sensational addition Leonie is.
July 22, 2021
To prove a point to her ex-fiancé, whom is also her business partner, Gabrielle Moreau decides that transforming the pub they bought as an investment in the tiny community of Wurruldi into an upmarket B&B would be an ideal project. She plans to be hands on but the building is in worse shape than she expected, and Gabby has no real idea where to start.
Hayden Paech dismisses Gabby as a stuck-up city girl from the moment she walks into the pub at Settlers Bridge, not that it matters given he believes he is no longer has anything to offer to any woman. But the more time he spends in Gabby’s company, particularly as he begins work on the Wurruldi Hotel, the more he wonders if the future he thought he had lost is possible after all.
The Wattle Seed Inn is the second heartwarming contemporary rural fiction novel from Leonie Kelsall set in the Murray River region of South Australia.
Kelsall explores familiar themes such as love, friendship, forgiveness and loss in The Wattle Seed Inn, and also issues such as self acceptance, trust and post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Romance is still the key element of the story though, and I enjoyed the way in which the author developed the relationship between Gabby and Hayden.
Gabby and Hayden are drawn together in part because they have experienced the tragic loss of a loved one for which they have held themselves responsible, and recognise that wound in each other, even without knowing the details. The pain is much fresher for Hayden, who also carries physical scars as a daily reminder, and experiences panic attacks. I thought Kelsall’s portrayal of his PTSD was sympathetic and believable, and the inclusion of Hayden’s service dog, Trigger, and his role in supporting him was illuminating. Gabby seems to have it all -wealth, privilege and beauty- but she too carries emotional scars, and harbours hidden insecurities that make her wary of relationships.
The addition of a third perspective in the novel was somewhat of a surprise. Ilse can’t clearly recall how the Wurruldi Hotel, that has been owned by her family for generations, came to be so run down, but she is happy that her home is finally getting the attention it needs, and is eager to offer Gabby advice on how to restore it to its former glory. She drifts around the hotel recalling happier times when her husband was alive, but is also haunted by a sense of something being badly wrong.
I enjoyed the connections Kelsall makes to her debut novel, The Farm at Peppertree Crossing, with the main characters playing a small role in this story. Matt and Roni are two of Hayden’s group of friends which also includes Sharni, who is the first to welcome Gabby to the area, secretly hoping that Gabby could be her ticket off the dairy farm.
Written with warmth, humour and sincerity, offering appealing characters and an engaging story, The Wattle Seed Inn is a lovely read, sure to satisfy fans of the genre.
Hayden Paech dismisses Gabby as a stuck-up city girl from the moment she walks into the pub at Settlers Bridge, not that it matters given he believes he is no longer has anything to offer to any woman. But the more time he spends in Gabby’s company, particularly as he begins work on the Wurruldi Hotel, the more he wonders if the future he thought he had lost is possible after all.
The Wattle Seed Inn is the second heartwarming contemporary rural fiction novel from Leonie Kelsall set in the Murray River region of South Australia.
Kelsall explores familiar themes such as love, friendship, forgiveness and loss in The Wattle Seed Inn, and also issues such as self acceptance, trust and post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Romance is still the key element of the story though, and I enjoyed the way in which the author developed the relationship between Gabby and Hayden.
Gabby and Hayden are drawn together in part because they have experienced the tragic loss of a loved one for which they have held themselves responsible, and recognise that wound in each other, even without knowing the details. The pain is much fresher for Hayden, who also carries physical scars as a daily reminder, and experiences panic attacks. I thought Kelsall’s portrayal of his PTSD was sympathetic and believable, and the inclusion of Hayden’s service dog, Trigger, and his role in supporting him was illuminating. Gabby seems to have it all -wealth, privilege and beauty- but she too carries emotional scars, and harbours hidden insecurities that make her wary of relationships.
The addition of a third perspective in the novel was somewhat of a surprise. Ilse can’t clearly recall how the Wurruldi Hotel, that has been owned by her family for generations, came to be so run down, but she is happy that her home is finally getting the attention it needs, and is eager to offer Gabby advice on how to restore it to its former glory. She drifts around the hotel recalling happier times when her husband was alive, but is also haunted by a sense of something being badly wrong.
I enjoyed the connections Kelsall makes to her debut novel, The Farm at Peppertree Crossing, with the main characters playing a small role in this story. Matt and Roni are two of Hayden’s group of friends which also includes Sharni, who is the first to welcome Gabby to the area, secretly hoping that Gabby could be her ticket off the dairy farm.
Written with warmth, humour and sincerity, offering appealing characters and an engaging story, The Wattle Seed Inn is a lovely read, sure to satisfy fans of the genre.
July 1, 2021
I didn’t expect to be so enamoured with this book which is saying something for me.
Told from alternating perspectives of Gabrielle, Hayden and Ilse The Wattle Seed Inn is a delightful story set in South Australia. Gabrielle is a PR exec who has separated from her fiancé and she’s taken on a derelict homestead/pub with the hopes of turning it into a bed and breakfast. The minute she sets foot in the property after some time away she wondered whether she has taken in too much. Hayden is a dour, local with a history of PTSD. He’s anti-Gabrielle from the outset, but finds himself drawn into her plans and positive attitude. Ilse’s narrative provides a historical perspective, and links with both Gabrielle and Hayden’s narrative giving an old world charming feel to the story, and a sense of nostalgia.
This book is about holding onto memories, but also letting go in the interest of making new ones. It’s rich in friendships, a sense of country values and community, being genuine and true to oneself. I loved the vulnerabilities of Danielle and Hayden, and Ilse’s perspective, ever present in the background.
Thank you to Allen and Unwin for sending me a copy of this book to read and review. These opinions are all my own.
Told from alternating perspectives of Gabrielle, Hayden and Ilse The Wattle Seed Inn is a delightful story set in South Australia. Gabrielle is a PR exec who has separated from her fiancé and she’s taken on a derelict homestead/pub with the hopes of turning it into a bed and breakfast. The minute she sets foot in the property after some time away she wondered whether she has taken in too much. Hayden is a dour, local with a history of PTSD. He’s anti-Gabrielle from the outset, but finds himself drawn into her plans and positive attitude. Ilse’s narrative provides a historical perspective, and links with both Gabrielle and Hayden’s narrative giving an old world charming feel to the story, and a sense of nostalgia.
This book is about holding onto memories, but also letting go in the interest of making new ones. It’s rich in friendships, a sense of country values and community, being genuine and true to oneself. I loved the vulnerabilities of Danielle and Hayden, and Ilse’s perspective, ever present in the background.
Thank you to Allen and Unwin for sending me a copy of this book to read and review. These opinions are all my own.
January 18, 2022
Absolutely loved it, just as I knew I would. It’s so tender and thoughtful, such lovely rural fiction x I loved everything about it, loved Gabrielle, Hayden, Ilse and Sharna x loved the small town community where ‘the lads’ pitch in and hard work is normal. I loved seeing the inn renovated and loved. I loved Trigger and learning more about PTSD. This novel has been calling to me for months and I’m so glad I got to read it, just perfect
April 21, 2025
What a great book. If you know anything about the Murray Bridge area, you will love it, so descriptive and even a nod to Mc Cues and savoury slices. WOW
July 1, 2021
I have just finished The Wattle Seed Inn and absolutely loved it, for so many reasons. I haven’t actually reviewed Kelsall’s debut offering The Farm at Peppertree Crossing yet but I am trying to get back on track so I’m determined to get this one written.
There are a lot of things I found to love about this story and I’m not sure where to start. I love the setting, I can’t pinpoint the exact location but the fictional Settlers Bridge is not too far from where I live.
The bakery that keeps popping up, and the favourite menu item, are far from fictional and it makes me smile every time they get a mention because they are my favourite bakery. I get such a kick out of recognising the places that I read about and can relate a little closer too. Maybe one day I need to take a bit of a road trip around my backyard and see if I can find just where the Wurruldi Hotel is.
The Wattle Seed Inn shares some crossover characters with The Farm at Peppertree Crossing but they are very much stand alone novels. This isn’t a series but I do hope to see more books set in and around Settlers Bridge, there are a couple more characters that I would love a closer look at.
The Wattle Seed Inn is written from three very different perspectives but it was easy to follow the different voices and I found that I connected with all of the characters.
Kelsall draws on her background in counselling to tackle some hefty issues with insight and heart. I found The Wattle Seed Inn to be a beautiful story but it also has quite a dark side and explores trauma, PTSD, grief and loss.
Gabrielle is one half of Smart & Sassy, the PR firm she built with her then fiancé Brendan Smart. When Brendan accuses her of having no passion she sets out to find a change and a challenge, settling on the abandoned pub they had purchased together years ago as an investment and left to fall further into ruin.
Gabrielle soon discovers that it takes more than a vague dream to make things happen in the tiny settlement of Wurruldi. She set out from Adelaide with a plan to turn the pub into a boutique destination B&B without actually checking out it’s condition first, and first impressions were a little underwhelming.
Her first night in the area sees Gabrielle having to head to Settlers Bridge where she comes across a group of friends in the pub and more first impressions are less than glowing. There was one person she made a positive first impression on and Sharna becomes quite a close friend.
Hayden is suffering and without the support of his close friends and his family he would be struggling an awful lot more. Kelsall explores grief and guilt and self-loathing in a sensitive manner as we get to know Hayden and understand his struggles. He has taken a huge step back in the last couple of years and can’t afford to let anyone else in his circle, it’s hard enough for him with the number of people he already cares about, and is petrified to lose. He is only slowly coming back out of his hermit like life and often will avoid social contact.
Our third voice in The Wattle Seed Inn is Ilse, an endearing older lady that we come to know slowly and who takes a while to work out.
The Wattle Seed Inn has a bit of mystery that unravels throughout the course of the story. A mystery that I found quite heartbreaking to be completely honest.
Gabrielle has always had her wealthy upbringing to fall back on so none of her ventures have entailed risk really, she never stood to lose because money was no object. She wants to prove that she can achieve something outside of that and the further she delves into the renovations the more she finds her passion growing and her vision for the place becoming clear.
Kelsall’s characters are vivid and relatable, their stories believable and sympathetic. The themes of appearances and the way they affect self perception was insightfully and sensitively done. The fear of being different in a small town was explored effectively. The romance in the story is low key and slow burning, and believably done.
The real beauty in the story is the transformation of the dilapidated Wurruldi Hotel into the beautifully restored Wattle Seed Inn.
The Wattle Seed Inn is a book that I would recommend to lovers of Contemporary fiction and rural reads.
Thanks for another great read Leonie, I look forward to the next one. Thanks to Allen and Unwin for my copy in exchange for an honest review.
There are a lot of things I found to love about this story and I’m not sure where to start. I love the setting, I can’t pinpoint the exact location but the fictional Settlers Bridge is not too far from where I live.
The bakery that keeps popping up, and the favourite menu item, are far from fictional and it makes me smile every time they get a mention because they are my favourite bakery. I get such a kick out of recognising the places that I read about and can relate a little closer too. Maybe one day I need to take a bit of a road trip around my backyard and see if I can find just where the Wurruldi Hotel is.
The Wattle Seed Inn shares some crossover characters with The Farm at Peppertree Crossing but they are very much stand alone novels. This isn’t a series but I do hope to see more books set in and around Settlers Bridge, there are a couple more characters that I would love a closer look at.
The Wattle Seed Inn is written from three very different perspectives but it was easy to follow the different voices and I found that I connected with all of the characters.
Kelsall draws on her background in counselling to tackle some hefty issues with insight and heart. I found The Wattle Seed Inn to be a beautiful story but it also has quite a dark side and explores trauma, PTSD, grief and loss.
Gabrielle is one half of Smart & Sassy, the PR firm she built with her then fiancé Brendan Smart. When Brendan accuses her of having no passion she sets out to find a change and a challenge, settling on the abandoned pub they had purchased together years ago as an investment and left to fall further into ruin.
Gabrielle soon discovers that it takes more than a vague dream to make things happen in the tiny settlement of Wurruldi. She set out from Adelaide with a plan to turn the pub into a boutique destination B&B without actually checking out it’s condition first, and first impressions were a little underwhelming.
Her first night in the area sees Gabrielle having to head to Settlers Bridge where she comes across a group of friends in the pub and more first impressions are less than glowing. There was one person she made a positive first impression on and Sharna becomes quite a close friend.
Hayden is suffering and without the support of his close friends and his family he would be struggling an awful lot more. Kelsall explores grief and guilt and self-loathing in a sensitive manner as we get to know Hayden and understand his struggles. He has taken a huge step back in the last couple of years and can’t afford to let anyone else in his circle, it’s hard enough for him with the number of people he already cares about, and is petrified to lose. He is only slowly coming back out of his hermit like life and often will avoid social contact.
Our third voice in The Wattle Seed Inn is Ilse, an endearing older lady that we come to know slowly and who takes a while to work out.
The Wattle Seed Inn has a bit of mystery that unravels throughout the course of the story. A mystery that I found quite heartbreaking to be completely honest.
Gabrielle has always had her wealthy upbringing to fall back on so none of her ventures have entailed risk really, she never stood to lose because money was no object. She wants to prove that she can achieve something outside of that and the further she delves into the renovations the more she finds her passion growing and her vision for the place becoming clear.
Kelsall’s characters are vivid and relatable, their stories believable and sympathetic. The themes of appearances and the way they affect self perception was insightfully and sensitively done. The fear of being different in a small town was explored effectively. The romance in the story is low key and slow burning, and believably done.
The real beauty in the story is the transformation of the dilapidated Wurruldi Hotel into the beautifully restored Wattle Seed Inn.
The Wattle Seed Inn is a book that I would recommend to lovers of Contemporary fiction and rural reads.
Thanks for another great read Leonie, I look forward to the next one. Thanks to Allen and Unwin for my copy in exchange for an honest review.
May 26, 2022
It was a real pleasure to read my first Leonie Kelsall novel, 𝑻𝒉𝒆 𝑾𝒂𝒕𝒕𝒍𝒆 𝑺𝒆𝒆𝒅 𝑰𝒏𝒏. Who knew a story about the restoration of old, unloved and rundown pub would be so touching?
The three central characters of Gabrielle, Hayden and Ilse truly bring the book to life. First appearances aren't all they seem, as each character is battling hidden demons. Leonie has portrayed grief and PTSD with the most possible care, dignity and empthany. Including Trigger, the adorable assistance dog is a very welcome inclusion!
We're also treated with a slow burn romance between Gabrielle and Hayden. Opposites really attract with these two, considering that upon their first meeting, Gabrielle inadvertently offended Hayden! When they do eventually sort out their feelings for one another, it's very sweet and romantic.
For me, Sharna is a highlight! This young dairy farmer/Gabby's best friend/future co-owner of the inn is fun, outspoken, fiercely overprotective, persistent and is the biggest GabbyWheaty shipper this side of Adelaide!
I positively enjoyed every moment of 𝑻𝒉𝒆 𝑾𝒂𝒕𝒕𝒍𝒆 𝑺𝒆𝒆𝒅 𝑰𝒏𝒏 It's safe to say, I'm now a fan of Leonie's!
🌟🌟🌟🌟✨/5
The three central characters of Gabrielle, Hayden and Ilse truly bring the book to life. First appearances aren't all they seem, as each character is battling hidden demons. Leonie has portrayed grief and PTSD with the most possible care, dignity and empthany. Including Trigger, the adorable assistance dog is a very welcome inclusion!
We're also treated with a slow burn romance between Gabrielle and Hayden. Opposites really attract with these two, considering that upon their first meeting, Gabrielle inadvertently offended Hayden! When they do eventually sort out their feelings for one another, it's very sweet and romantic.
For me, Sharna is a highlight! This young dairy farmer/Gabby's best friend/future co-owner of the inn is fun, outspoken, fiercely overprotective, persistent and is the biggest GabbyWheaty shipper this side of Adelaide!
I positively enjoyed every moment of 𝑻𝒉𝒆 𝑾𝒂𝒕𝒕𝒍𝒆 𝑺𝒆𝒆𝒅 𝑰𝒏𝒏 It's safe to say, I'm now a fan of Leonie's!
🌟🌟🌟🌟✨/5
July 15, 2021
I absolutely adored Léonie Kelsall’s first novel, The Farm At Peppertree Crossing, so I was so excited to read this. It’s set in the same area and readers of that first book will probably be happy to see quite a few familiar faces peppering this story, including Matt and Roni.
Three years ago, Gabrielle Moreau and her then-fiance and business partner, bought an old pub. Since then there’s been an earthquake that caused a little damage but Gabrielle now owns the pub outright and is determined to restore it to its former glory and hopefully, find her passion. On her first night in town, she meets a bunch of locals in a different pub and is drawn into their close knit friendship group. Even better, two of them have skills she desperately needs to help restore her building – her vision is for an inn rather than a pub.
Hayden Paech is damaged in more ways than one. Without his friends badgering him to stay part of the group, to go out, to live, he’d probably be a hermit, just his service dog for company. He and Gabrielle do not hit it off well due to an assumption on Gabrielle’s part and her wariness of his dog but the more time they spend together, the more something simmers between them.
I really loved the way this is told – the narrative is split between three perspectives: Gabrielle, Hayden and also Ilse, who lived most of her life in and around the pub and it was held her in family for generations. Gabrielle is from the city and is also from a wealthy background so she’s used to life being a certain way, things happening when you’re ready to offer money for services. Life in the country is different – contractors are quite happy to say they don’t work out that far or will come out when they’re ready, to give a quote. When she meets the group of locals and is able to hire cabinet maker Justin and stonemason Hayden, she also finds that friendly Sharna is willing to pitch in and Gabrielle can even do some of the work herself.
Gabrielle and Hayden get off to a prickly start, for a few reasons. Hayden is a character that is absolutely radiating with pain – both physically and mentally, which he tries to hide. His friends, especially Taylor, the local doctor, are always checking on his welfare and making sure he’s doing okay and the thoughts and nightmares aren’t getting on top of him. Hayden is suffering from PTSD and he has his service dog, who recognises the signs that Hayden might be experiencing times of high stress, and to wake him from nightmares and provide comfort. The support that the dog provides was showcased so well – he was such a part of the story he was almost a main character himself and not only does he provide that comfort and security for Hayden, looking after him when required but he also helps Gabrielle overcome her fear and wariness of dogs.
Hayden and Gabrielle both had some trauma, grief and loss in their past – and are still dealing with the after-effects of that. Hayden has a lot of guilt, for things that are not his fault. It can be hard to bear but sometimes a tragedy is just that…a tragedy. I think Gabrielle can understand those feelings because she’s had similar ones herself. I really appreciated the way their friendship developed from this snarkiness to this deep understanding of each other and all their parts. Before the end of the book, Hayden and Gabrielle have seen each other’s deep vulnerabilities, scars and raw wounds and are the stronger for it and that was something I really enjoyed reading. There’s no suggestion that this developing relationship will ‘fix’ Hayden, will change things for him but he’ll have support and love from a different direction, when he needs it.
I also really loved Ilse’s chapters. I don’t think her story is hard to discern even in the beginning but I felt it was done in a way that really worked and the slow reveal of all the parts of her story was well crafted. It gave the reader a chance to view the inn’s history, see how it had shaped lives and how Gabrielle was bringing it back.
You don’t have to have read the first book in order to read this one – it stands alone really well. But if you have read one and not the other (no matter which way it is) then I highly recommend you read both because they are both wonderful.
***A copy of this book was provided by the publisher for the purpose of an honest review***
Three years ago, Gabrielle Moreau and her then-fiance and business partner, bought an old pub. Since then there’s been an earthquake that caused a little damage but Gabrielle now owns the pub outright and is determined to restore it to its former glory and hopefully, find her passion. On her first night in town, she meets a bunch of locals in a different pub and is drawn into their close knit friendship group. Even better, two of them have skills she desperately needs to help restore her building – her vision is for an inn rather than a pub.
Hayden Paech is damaged in more ways than one. Without his friends badgering him to stay part of the group, to go out, to live, he’d probably be a hermit, just his service dog for company. He and Gabrielle do not hit it off well due to an assumption on Gabrielle’s part and her wariness of his dog but the more time they spend together, the more something simmers between them.
I really loved the way this is told – the narrative is split between three perspectives: Gabrielle, Hayden and also Ilse, who lived most of her life in and around the pub and it was held her in family for generations. Gabrielle is from the city and is also from a wealthy background so she’s used to life being a certain way, things happening when you’re ready to offer money for services. Life in the country is different – contractors are quite happy to say they don’t work out that far or will come out when they’re ready, to give a quote. When she meets the group of locals and is able to hire cabinet maker Justin and stonemason Hayden, she also finds that friendly Sharna is willing to pitch in and Gabrielle can even do some of the work herself.
Gabrielle and Hayden get off to a prickly start, for a few reasons. Hayden is a character that is absolutely radiating with pain – both physically and mentally, which he tries to hide. His friends, especially Taylor, the local doctor, are always checking on his welfare and making sure he’s doing okay and the thoughts and nightmares aren’t getting on top of him. Hayden is suffering from PTSD and he has his service dog, who recognises the signs that Hayden might be experiencing times of high stress, and to wake him from nightmares and provide comfort. The support that the dog provides was showcased so well – he was such a part of the story he was almost a main character himself and not only does he provide that comfort and security for Hayden, looking after him when required but he also helps Gabrielle overcome her fear and wariness of dogs.
Hayden and Gabrielle both had some trauma, grief and loss in their past – and are still dealing with the after-effects of that. Hayden has a lot of guilt, for things that are not his fault. It can be hard to bear but sometimes a tragedy is just that…a tragedy. I think Gabrielle can understand those feelings because she’s had similar ones herself. I really appreciated the way their friendship developed from this snarkiness to this deep understanding of each other and all their parts. Before the end of the book, Hayden and Gabrielle have seen each other’s deep vulnerabilities, scars and raw wounds and are the stronger for it and that was something I really enjoyed reading. There’s no suggestion that this developing relationship will ‘fix’ Hayden, will change things for him but he’ll have support and love from a different direction, when he needs it.
I also really loved Ilse’s chapters. I don’t think her story is hard to discern even in the beginning but I felt it was done in a way that really worked and the slow reveal of all the parts of her story was well crafted. It gave the reader a chance to view the inn’s history, see how it had shaped lives and how Gabrielle was bringing it back.
You don’t have to have read the first book in order to read this one – it stands alone really well. But if you have read one and not the other (no matter which way it is) then I highly recommend you read both because they are both wonderful.
***A copy of this book was provided by the publisher for the purpose of an honest review***
August 10, 2021
A run-down hotel in a small country town; a broken man haunted by guilt and insecurities— the result of physical and mental trauma and his perceived inaction; a beautiful woman whose veneer exposes her to judgement but covers a myriad of uncertainties— and hides the depth of her loneliness as well as her compassion. There's much to love in this tale of hope and strength in the face of adversity.
Outstanding support characters include the effervescent Sharna, who also hides her truth from the town, plus walk-on roles from a few of our favourites from Léonie's earlier, 'The Farm at Peppertree Crossing.'
With its clever narrative of country humour meets city-girl slick, this is a captivating story with all the 'feels'. The sensitivity in handling the nature of Hayden's disability, the poignant emotion, and sizzling romance scenes has me wanting to know more about the locals of Settlers Bridge— and planning a visit to stay at The Wattle Tree Inn.
Outstanding support characters include the effervescent Sharna, who also hides her truth from the town, plus walk-on roles from a few of our favourites from Léonie's earlier, 'The Farm at Peppertree Crossing.'
With its clever narrative of country humour meets city-girl slick, this is a captivating story with all the 'feels'. The sensitivity in handling the nature of Hayden's disability, the poignant emotion, and sizzling romance scenes has me wanting to know more about the locals of Settlers Bridge— and planning a visit to stay at The Wattle Tree Inn.
August 9, 2021
Romance, renovations and new beginnings.
Leonie Kelsall has written a beautiful rural romance that follows the story of Gabrielle, Hayden and Ilse.
I was swept away in Gabrielle and Hayden's story and I loved seeing them work through their pasts, to forge a new future. I also really want to visit the Inn!
Isle holds a dear place in my heart. I could have read her story as a stand alone. It was beautiful, heartfelt and captivating.
Three POV's, three main characters, a cast of quirky and loveable friends, and a setting so picturesque I travelled there in the authors words.
Must read!
Leonie Kelsall has written a beautiful rural romance that follows the story of Gabrielle, Hayden and Ilse.
I was swept away in Gabrielle and Hayden's story and I loved seeing them work through their pasts, to forge a new future. I also really want to visit the Inn!
Isle holds a dear place in my heart. I could have read her story as a stand alone. It was beautiful, heartfelt and captivating.
Three POV's, three main characters, a cast of quirky and loveable friends, and a setting so picturesque I travelled there in the authors words.
Must read!
August 12, 2021
A warm and captivating story set in South Australia (my home start), near Murray Bridge, on the River Murray. It is always enjoyable to read a novel featuring familiar places and experiences. Gabrielle and Hayden, with his beautiful assistance dog, meet in a small country pub; each has their own traumas and sadnesses to overcome in this heartwarming rural read filled with renovations, romance, friends and country life.
July 20, 2021
This book was ok but it was a bit drawn out- not entirely worth the effort
December 14, 2022
4⭐️
Gabrielle (not Gabby thank you very much!) is leaving Sydney and her fiancé Brendan behind. She’s had everything by handed to her on a platter by her rich parents; but wants to prove she’s more than her a carefully curated image. Buying a dilapidated pub in a small town seems just the ticket to prove her worth; but at what cost and what to do about Isle, the women that’s lived there for so long and had the pub in her family for generations?
Hayden is in a dark place. He had it all until an unforeseeable event took it all away, leaving him broken and closed off. He needs to get back out there; but Gabrielle buying the pub has stirred up more emotions than he thought possible.
Gabrielle, Ilse and Hayden are all looking for closure, acceptance and happiness but how can they if they can’t first accept themselves for who they really are? To find out, you’re just going to have to read The Wattle Seed Inn, the second book of Léonie Kelsall.
Welcome home to the South Australian wheat belt and back to the community that we fell in love with in Kelsall’s first book, The Farm at Peppertree Crossing. Although we get reacquainted with some previous characters, this is a book that primarily focuses on the adventures of Gabrielle, Hayden and Ilse. I thought it was the perfect mix of old and predominately new, meaning that you can read the books out of order and that you don’t need to have read the first to appreciate the second (although you should definitely read them both!)
Kelsall sure knows how to write interesting and engaging characters, and you’re going to love them all - even the bad ones. I particularly enjoyed how she composed Ilse. It took me a few chapters to get what she’d done; but I spent the rest of the book thinking it was genius!
Excellent characters are nothing without a plot that brings them to life and again Kelsall takes you on a rollercoaster of emotions and even throws in a few red herrings, expertly weaving a romance story into a plot that is so much more. This is a book that will make you laugh, cry and sigh with contentment whilst contemporaneously leaving you guessing, which is why it’s a highly recommended read from me.
I’m now very much looking forward to Kelsall’s third book in this series and have my fingers crossed that it won’t be the last.
To play along with my book bingo and to see what else I’m reading, go to #ktbookbingo and @kt_elder on Instagram.
Gabrielle (not Gabby thank you very much!) is leaving Sydney and her fiancé Brendan behind. She’s had everything by handed to her on a platter by her rich parents; but wants to prove she’s more than her a carefully curated image. Buying a dilapidated pub in a small town seems just the ticket to prove her worth; but at what cost and what to do about Isle, the women that’s lived there for so long and had the pub in her family for generations?
Hayden is in a dark place. He had it all until an unforeseeable event took it all away, leaving him broken and closed off. He needs to get back out there; but Gabrielle buying the pub has stirred up more emotions than he thought possible.
Gabrielle, Ilse and Hayden are all looking for closure, acceptance and happiness but how can they if they can’t first accept themselves for who they really are? To find out, you’re just going to have to read The Wattle Seed Inn, the second book of Léonie Kelsall.
Welcome home to the South Australian wheat belt and back to the community that we fell in love with in Kelsall’s first book, The Farm at Peppertree Crossing. Although we get reacquainted with some previous characters, this is a book that primarily focuses on the adventures of Gabrielle, Hayden and Ilse. I thought it was the perfect mix of old and predominately new, meaning that you can read the books out of order and that you don’t need to have read the first to appreciate the second (although you should definitely read them both!)
Kelsall sure knows how to write interesting and engaging characters, and you’re going to love them all - even the bad ones. I particularly enjoyed how she composed Ilse. It took me a few chapters to get what she’d done; but I spent the rest of the book thinking it was genius!
Excellent characters are nothing without a plot that brings them to life and again Kelsall takes you on a rollercoaster of emotions and even throws in a few red herrings, expertly weaving a romance story into a plot that is so much more. This is a book that will make you laugh, cry and sigh with contentment whilst contemporaneously leaving you guessing, which is why it’s a highly recommended read from me.
I’m now very much looking forward to Kelsall’s third book in this series and have my fingers crossed that it won’t be the last.
To play along with my book bingo and to see what else I’m reading, go to #ktbookbingo and @kt_elder on Instagram.
November 2, 2022
PR executive Gabrielle leaves the city and moves to Settlers Bridge on the Murray river to renovate the Wurruldi Hotel but the story is more about her own personal issues and the troubled stonemason Hayden. With the help of friends in Settlers Bridge the old Hotel is given a new life as The Wattle Seed Inn and healing of personal traumas as well with Ilse Hayden's grandmother overseeing it all. I enjoyed the small town community feeling and I liked the character Sharna who brought a touch of comedy to an enjoyable book of learning to cope with one's appearance.
November 18, 2023
A friend of mine told me his Mum was an author, so of course I had too buy all her books too read.
I wasn’t sure what too expect
But I really enjoyed this book
Set on the Murray River, with so many references too my local town, great story line, very heartwarming
Can’t wait too read the next one
I wasn’t sure what too expect
But I really enjoyed this book
Set on the Murray River, with so many references too my local town, great story line, very heartwarming
Can’t wait too read the next one
September 9, 2023
A wonderful story set in a location that I love.
January 24, 2023
Yet another fabulous story to get lost in. Argh, this writer will get me in trouble one day. I almost didn’t get ready for work in time today as I was trying to get “one more chapter” in, before finishing the book. FYI no regrets. The Wattle Seed Inn delves into the lives of three individuals, who each share their own tragic history and trauma. The interactions between them warms and breaks your heart at the same time. The push to respond normally, to be accepted, to have a life that the world tells you to live and yet have fighting off that trauma response and anger that comes along with it causes a whiplash of emotions and self doubt - something Leonie captured brilliantly. Ilse’s storyline intrigued me from the start and I will admit, I spent a good part of the 200km drive home from the city on the weekend chewing hubby’s ear off as I discussed my thoughts on where it was leading and what it was meant and how it was portrayed. Just so you know, I was right. But it was done so brilliantly, so unexpectedly that it added a whole new level of intrigue. The twists tied it all together perfectly. What was even better was I got to pick up snippets of other beloved characters from previous books and see where their lives have gone. Answering questions, giving closure on the “Oh, I need to know…” Counting down until the next book. I will be preordering for sure.
September 7, 2022
This story by Leonie Kelsall centres around a run down hotel outside of Adelaide, a city girl trying to prover herself and a country boy trying to hide his scars.
The story flows well and is easy to read while still drawing you in and making you feel the emotions of the characters. The scenery descriptions paint a beautiful picture. I especially loved the twist within the story. Might have needed a few tissues with this one.
The story flows well and is easy to read while still drawing you in and making you feel the emotions of the characters. The scenery descriptions paint a beautiful picture. I especially loved the twist within the story. Might have needed a few tissues with this one.
August 26, 2021
Hayden, Ilse and Gabrielle are all suffering in their own way and trying to find the light in their lives again. When Gabrielle starts to redevelop the old hotel that had been in Hayden's family for generations, they are brought together and slowly start their journey to healing. This was a beautiful story about love, guilt, healing, being perfectly imperfect and a dog called Trigger. Loved it.
December 5, 2022
Just another rural romance.
July 2, 2022
I read this book over a week and I loved it so much this much. This was not just about finding love with someone but also about how we can flaws on our body but still be beautiful. Gabrielle Moreau a city PR Consultant she goes to the small town of Settlers Ridge to renovate the Wurrudli Hotel and turn it into a bed and breakfast.
She walks into Settlers Ridge pub where she meets a group of friends having dinner Hayden Peach with his dog Trigger, Justin, Taylor, and others.
Hayden is quiet sees that she is beautiful but know that he can't trust himself to fall her. He carries the guilt of his grandmother death as she was unwell when he was called out to fire and was seriously injured and he didn't get back. He has nightmares, keep to himself but with his friends encouragement finds himself helping Gabrielle with the renovation. She slowly finds away to show him that we all have flaws as he has scars from burns and she has vitilligo a skin disorder.
A must read you will enjoy it.
She walks into Settlers Ridge pub where she meets a group of friends having dinner Hayden Peach with his dog Trigger, Justin, Taylor, and others.
Hayden is quiet sees that she is beautiful but know that he can't trust himself to fall her. He carries the guilt of his grandmother death as she was unwell when he was called out to fire and was seriously injured and he didn't get back. He has nightmares, keep to himself but with his friends encouragement finds himself helping Gabrielle with the renovation. She slowly finds away to show him that we all have flaws as he has scars from burns and she has vitilligo a skin disorder.
A must read you will enjoy it.
January 12, 2022
This is a very well written book with a fantastic story line. The country characters have real depth and each one of them has their own special story that has made them who they are.
The book also shows that you should never assume things and that it is never too late to change the direction your life is going in.
The main theme of the book is about Gabrielle Moreau, who takes ownership of a fallen down hotel that she is wanting to renovate. So she moves to the country and tries to organise tradesmen, which becomes impossible.
In the meantime, Gabrielle makes friends with Sharna, and Sharna helps out by organising some of her friends to assist with the renovations. One of these friends is Hayden, who has become a bit of a recluse after an accident turned his life upside down.
Add to this a ghost, Ilse, that haunts the hotel and is also the grandmother of Hayden, and you have the perfect combination for a terrific book.
A must read.
The book also shows that you should never assume things and that it is never too late to change the direction your life is going in.
The main theme of the book is about Gabrielle Moreau, who takes ownership of a fallen down hotel that she is wanting to renovate. So she moves to the country and tries to organise tradesmen, which becomes impossible.
In the meantime, Gabrielle makes friends with Sharna, and Sharna helps out by organising some of her friends to assist with the renovations. One of these friends is Hayden, who has become a bit of a recluse after an accident turned his life upside down.
Add to this a ghost, Ilse, that haunts the hotel and is also the grandmother of Hayden, and you have the perfect combination for a terrific book.
A must read.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 27, 2021
Another fabulous read by Leonie Kelsall. Full of emotion, pain, insecurities, secrets, community, love and overcoming the past. Set in a beautiful location with engaging and lovely characters. Fully enjoyed this story. 💜💜💜💜💜
August 23, 2021
What a beautiful read. Absolutely loved it. Great characters and storyline.
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