What do you think?
Rate this book
Paperbark Hill
A pitch-perfect rural romance from the bestselling author of Magpie's Bend.
Diana McIntyre and her four boys have had a tough eighteen months but with the love and support of her family, she believes their lives are finally back on track. Diana's dream of starting a flower farm has been the perfect diversion, with an elderly dahlia expert showing her the ropes. She won't have to do this alone.
Locum pharmacist and single dad Ned Gardiner hasn't called Victoria home for years. However his father's death forces Ned to return to the family farm, a place that holds few happy memories for him. Dealing with his estranged mother and sorting his father's affairs, he plans on leaving as soon as possible, but what will it take for Ned to put down roots?
With six children between them, can this pair juggle families, farms and an unlooked-for romance?
Diana McIntyre and her four boys have had a tough eighteen months but with the love and support of her family, she believes their lives are finally back on track. Diana's dream of starting a flower farm has been the perfect diversion, with an elderly dahlia expert showing her the ropes. She won't have to do this alone.
Locum pharmacist and single dad Ned Gardiner hasn't called Victoria home for years. However his father's death forces Ned to return to the family farm, a place that holds few happy memories for him. Dealing with his estranged mother and sorting his father's affairs, he plans on leaving as soon as possible, but what will it take for Ned to put down roots?
With six children between them, can this pair juggle families, farms and an unlooked-for romance?
398 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 31, 2022
11 people are currently reading
147 people want to read
About the author
Maya Linnell
7 books171 followersFrom country show baking to raising orphaned lambs, bestselling author Maya Linnell writes about the life she lives and loves. A keen bookworm, former rural journalist and radio presenter, Maya has six rural fiction titles published with Allen & Unwin - Wallaby Lane, Kookaburra Cottage, Paperbark Hill, Magpie's Bend, Bottlebrush Creek and Wildflower Ridge.
She lives with her family in rural Queensland, writes to the soundtrack of kookaburras, and relies on copious amounts of tea and chocolate to fuel her days at the keyboard.
Maya was shortlisted in the 2021, 2020 and 2019 Aus Romance Reader Association awards for categories including Favourite Australian Romance Author, Favourite Debut Author and Favourite Australian-set novel and her novels have consistently made bestseller lists and the Better Reading Top 100.
Follow Maya on Instagram @maya.linnell.writes
She lives with her family in rural Queensland, writes to the soundtrack of kookaburras, and relies on copious amounts of tea and chocolate to fuel her days at the keyboard.
Maya was shortlisted in the 2021, 2020 and 2019 Aus Romance Reader Association awards for categories including Favourite Australian Romance Author, Favourite Debut Author and Favourite Australian-set novel and her novels have consistently made bestseller lists and the Better Reading Top 100.
Follow Maya on Instagram @maya.linnell.writes
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 72 reviews
June 10, 2022
I love the McIntyre family and I have thoroughly enjoyed spending time with them and being back with them, this time we see how Diana is coping with the huge change in her and her four boy’s lives, times change for Diana but her dream of a flower farm are moving ahead, but when she loses her mentor, Colin what will happen now? will someone else step up to help.
Diana and her boys have coped well in the last eighteen months her family have been a big help and her flower farm is moving ahead her dahlias are growing but how will she cope now without Colin to help her, in steps Colin’s son Ned returning with his two young children to sort out his father’s farm and estate. Diana is taken with this handsome man and is thrilled with the knowledge he has with plants and asks him to help her for a few months.
Ned leads a nomadic life with his two young kids and when tragedy brings him home, he is not sure what he will find it is a long time since he has been home and there are a few changes that shock him, but when he meets Diana there is a spark and maybe a pull to stop roaming and picking up locum work as a pharmacist and maybe look to the future.
I loved this story so much it is beautifully written with emotion, it is heartwarming and heartfelt at the same time as Diana and Ned cope with grief, and their growing feelings for each other, add in six children between them, one teenager who is finding it hard at the moment and a mother who is also struggling and this book becomes a must read. I cried tears both happy and sad as Diana and Ned go through a few ups and downs to find the happiness, love and joy that they so deserved. I also have to mention the gorgeous flowers described in this story, I could almost smell those beautiful bouquets and posies that bought Ned and Diana together. Thank you Maya Linnell for another keeper.
My thanks to Allen & Unwin for my copy to read and review.
Diana and her boys have coped well in the last eighteen months her family have been a big help and her flower farm is moving ahead her dahlias are growing but how will she cope now without Colin to help her, in steps Colin’s son Ned returning with his two young children to sort out his father’s farm and estate. Diana is taken with this handsome man and is thrilled with the knowledge he has with plants and asks him to help her for a few months.
Ned leads a nomadic life with his two young kids and when tragedy brings him home, he is not sure what he will find it is a long time since he has been home and there are a few changes that shock him, but when he meets Diana there is a spark and maybe a pull to stop roaming and picking up locum work as a pharmacist and maybe look to the future.
I loved this story so much it is beautifully written with emotion, it is heartwarming and heartfelt at the same time as Diana and Ned cope with grief, and their growing feelings for each other, add in six children between them, one teenager who is finding it hard at the moment and a mother who is also struggling and this book becomes a must read. I cried tears both happy and sad as Diana and Ned go through a few ups and downs to find the happiness, love and joy that they so deserved. I also have to mention the gorgeous flowers described in this story, I could almost smell those beautiful bouquets and posies that bought Ned and Diana together. Thank you Maya Linnell for another keeper.
My thanks to Allen & Unwin for my copy to read and review.
August 6, 2024
Ned Gardiner and his two children, Willow and Doug, were on their way south from the Northern Territory when they received a phone call from Ned's brother Johnno. Their dad Colin had been in an accident and it was bad. Ned pushed all other plans aside to head to Victoria, hoping they would arrive in time to farewell his dad. With Willow and Doug, Ned arrived at the farm he'd grown up on - the farm that was now his and Johnno's to run and care for. The chicken farm was a thriving business and needed someone on hand daily. With Johnno on his way to Antarctica, Ned knew it was up to him. And with his estranged mother also established on the property, he wondered how it would go.
Diana McIntyre and her four sons still missed her husband and their father, Pete, dreadfully. The flower garden which Pete had helped start, and Colin had continued with the advice, especially on the growing of dahlias, was doing well, so Diana was rocked when she heard of Colin's death. But when she needed someone to help her out, Ned offered, and they became a well-oiled team. But problems were looming and Diana didn't see them coming...
Paperbark Hill is the 4th and final book featuring the McIntyre sisters and I thoroughly enjoyed it. Aussie author Maya Linnell writes enticing and intriguing stories, with characters who are realistic and down to earth. I've read every book Ms Linnell has written, and loved them all. Highly recommended.
Diana McIntyre and her four sons still missed her husband and their father, Pete, dreadfully. The flower garden which Pete had helped start, and Colin had continued with the advice, especially on the growing of dahlias, was doing well, so Diana was rocked when she heard of Colin's death. But when she needed someone to help her out, Ned offered, and they became a well-oiled team. But problems were looming and Diana didn't see them coming...
Paperbark Hill is the 4th and final book featuring the McIntyre sisters and I thoroughly enjoyed it. Aussie author Maya Linnell writes enticing and intriguing stories, with characters who are realistic and down to earth. I've read every book Ms Linnell has written, and loved them all. Highly recommended.
August 2, 2023
four and a half stars
It has been a hard eighteen months for Diana McIntyre and her four boys since her husband Pete died. Fortunately she has caring sisters and other family members for support, plus her long held dream of starting a flower farm. In this, she also has the support of Colin, an elderly dahlia expert. But life had other plans, as Diana soon finds out.
Ned Gardiner has been away from his home state for years until he learns his father is dying. Ned and his two kids, Willow and Doug, set off in the van from Darwin back to Victoria and the family farm. It is not a place of happy memories for him, due to his sister Jessie’s death and a grieving mother who plunged into alcoholism. Now he has to put his job as pharmacist and his plans on hold to deal with the farm and his estranged mother among other things.
This is an engaging story. Characters are so real and relatable. Good contrast between Diana’s supportive family and Ned’s situation. Loved the interactions of Diana and Ned with their kids and community involvement. Great setting and I loved all the info about flowers Though dahlias are the main flower, others are mentioned as well. I swear I could just about smell the perfume of the sweet peas at one stage.
Dealing with loss and grief, family, friendship, alcoholism and its effects, as well as a romance or maybe two, I thoroughly enjoyed it. Emotions definitely involved. Only thing I didn’t like was the repeated use of Christ in a profane manner. That point aside this is an engaging book that I am sure many readers will enjoy .
It has been a hard eighteen months for Diana McIntyre and her four boys since her husband Pete died. Fortunately she has caring sisters and other family members for support, plus her long held dream of starting a flower farm. In this, she also has the support of Colin, an elderly dahlia expert. But life had other plans, as Diana soon finds out.
Ned Gardiner has been away from his home state for years until he learns his father is dying. Ned and his two kids, Willow and Doug, set off in the van from Darwin back to Victoria and the family farm. It is not a place of happy memories for him, due to his sister Jessie’s death and a grieving mother who plunged into alcoholism. Now he has to put his job as pharmacist and his plans on hold to deal with the farm and his estranged mother among other things.
This is an engaging story. Characters are so real and relatable. Good contrast between Diana’s supportive family and Ned’s situation. Loved the interactions of Diana and Ned with their kids and community involvement. Great setting and I loved all the info about flowers Though dahlias are the main flower, others are mentioned as well. I swear I could just about smell the perfume of the sweet peas at one stage.
Dealing with loss and grief, family, friendship, alcoholism and its effects, as well as a romance or maybe two, I thoroughly enjoyed it. Emotions definitely involved. Only thing I didn’t like was the repeated use of Christ in a profane manner. That point aside this is an engaging book that I am sure many readers will enjoy .
May 31, 2022
Thank you to Allen and Unwin for sending me a copy of this book for review.
I absolutely loved this book. I loved the warmth of the characters. It had my heart and my soul. It is told by 2 main characters Ned and Diane. Its a story about finding love when you least expect it as well as healing family rifts. I loved the humour in it. The characters come to life and you become a part of it. Cant wait to read the other books.
I absolutely loved this book. I loved the warmth of the characters. It had my heart and my soul. It is told by 2 main characters Ned and Diane. Its a story about finding love when you least expect it as well as healing family rifts. I loved the humour in it. The characters come to life and you become a part of it. Cant wait to read the other books.
October 31, 2022
A beautiful cover and inside the cover is a truly beautifully written story. Emotional, heartwarming characters and an amazing setting all combined together create a wonderful story. This book deserves more than five stars because Aussie author Maya Linnell has not only entertained her readers, but she has taken them on a remarkable journey. I LOVED this story so much and I can’t wait to see what she writes next. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED.
July 7, 2022
Dear readers, it's been a joy to spend four novels with the McIntyre sister and the folks of Bridgefield and Port Fairview and I'm quite sad to close the book on this series. Diana's story was partly written during lockdown, when my own dahlia patch was in full bloom and we started a free roadside flower stall to brighten people's days during the pandemic.
I've long been a believer in the joy of growing and giving flowers, plus the healing power of sinking your hands into the soil. This ethos guided the direction of Paperbark Hill, and provided the perfect springboard for my main characters, Diana and Ned to heal from their own personal heartaches.
It was also a treat to hang out with Diana's naughty twins, Harry and Elliot, meet the Gardiner tribe create a story that involved kittens (the tale of the poorly fly-blown kitten is 100% memoir from my own childhood!), add in an Antarctic subplot and bring the ladies of the town together in a sewing circle.
Many thanks to everyone who reads this story and finds a smile, a tear and maybe a few laughs within the pages. It's an honour to write the stories of strong country women!
I've long been a believer in the joy of growing and giving flowers, plus the healing power of sinking your hands into the soil. This ethos guided the direction of Paperbark Hill, and provided the perfect springboard for my main characters, Diana and Ned to heal from their own personal heartaches.
It was also a treat to hang out with Diana's naughty twins, Harry and Elliot, meet the Gardiner tribe create a story that involved kittens (the tale of the poorly fly-blown kitten is 100% memoir from my own childhood!), add in an Antarctic subplot and bring the ladies of the town together in a sewing circle.
Many thanks to everyone who reads this story and finds a smile, a tear and maybe a few laughs within the pages. It's an honour to write the stories of strong country women!
June 20, 2022
Whilst I'm saddened that the magnificent McIntyre sisters series is over, it certainly went out with style!
The fourth and final book focuses on eldest sister Diana and her four sons, Cameron, Elliott, Harry and Leo. Two years after the untimely death of her husband Pete, Diana has achieved her dream of operating her very own flower farm. When opportunity arises to place her farm on the map, Diana grabs it with both hands. Knowing it'll be a struggle to meet demands with her increasing popularity, Diana enlists the help from newcomer, Ned Gardiner. What starts off as a friendship, love soon blossoms between the two. But there's trouble ahead that will threaten everything Diana has worked for...
Ned Gardiner is used to a nomadic lifestyle with his children Willow and Doug. However, he's called home when his father passes away. Suddenly Ned is thrown into a life of farming and making amends with his estranged mother, Maeve. For the first time ever, Ned is seriously thinking about settling down permanently. He sees Diana and her boys in their future, but of course, Ned could be left with a broken heart and shattered dreams.
Whilst ℙ𝕒𝕡𝕖𝕣𝕓𝕒𝕣𝕜 ℍ𝕚𝕝𝕝 explores some very tough topics, Maya's outstanding writing brings us back to a world where everything that's nice in life prevails. I really enjoyed learning the gorgeous art of flower farming and catching up with all the characters featured in this glorious series! Maya really went out bringing everyone back for a final hurrah! Everything has wrapped up beautifully in this little part of the fictional world.
I really can't wait to see what Maya shares with us next!!
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟/5
The fourth and final book focuses on eldest sister Diana and her four sons, Cameron, Elliott, Harry and Leo. Two years after the untimely death of her husband Pete, Diana has achieved her dream of operating her very own flower farm. When opportunity arises to place her farm on the map, Diana grabs it with both hands. Knowing it'll be a struggle to meet demands with her increasing popularity, Diana enlists the help from newcomer, Ned Gardiner. What starts off as a friendship, love soon blossoms between the two. But there's trouble ahead that will threaten everything Diana has worked for...
Ned Gardiner is used to a nomadic lifestyle with his children Willow and Doug. However, he's called home when his father passes away. Suddenly Ned is thrown into a life of farming and making amends with his estranged mother, Maeve. For the first time ever, Ned is seriously thinking about settling down permanently. He sees Diana and her boys in their future, but of course, Ned could be left with a broken heart and shattered dreams.
Whilst ℙ𝕒𝕡𝕖𝕣𝕓𝕒𝕣𝕜 ℍ𝕚𝕝𝕝 explores some very tough topics, Maya's outstanding writing brings us back to a world where everything that's nice in life prevails. I really enjoyed learning the gorgeous art of flower farming and catching up with all the characters featured in this glorious series! Maya really went out bringing everyone back for a final hurrah! Everything has wrapped up beautifully in this little part of the fictional world.
I really can't wait to see what Maya shares with us next!!
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟/5
October 13, 2022
I am a city girl through and through, but I do love to read about country life. Nobody does it better than Australian author Maya Linnell. This crime and thriller lover just loves reading about the McIntyre sisters and their lives.
Paperbark Hill is Diana McIntyre's story. She is getting her life back on track after losing her husband, and her 4 kids are trying the same. Diana loves her family and her flowers. She dreams of a flower farm. Ned is back in town when his father dies, to sort out his things and re-connect with his mother. There is an instant connection, but can they make it work?
Maya's writing will have you in Paperbark Hill with Diana and Ned. The beautiful flowers, the animals, the baking - do not forget the baking! Country life through Maya's eye's is lovely. I love seeing her photos of Instagram of her own animals and baking treats!
Thanks to the lovely Maya and Allen and Unwin for my copy of this book to read. Thoroughly enjoyed it.
Paperbark Hill is Diana McIntyre's story. She is getting her life back on track after losing her husband, and her 4 kids are trying the same. Diana loves her family and her flowers. She dreams of a flower farm. Ned is back in town when his father dies, to sort out his things and re-connect with his mother. There is an instant connection, but can they make it work?
Maya's writing will have you in Paperbark Hill with Diana and Ned. The beautiful flowers, the animals, the baking - do not forget the baking! Country life through Maya's eye's is lovely. I love seeing her photos of Instagram of her own animals and baking treats!
Thanks to the lovely Maya and Allen and Unwin for my copy of this book to read. Thoroughly enjoyed it.
August 19, 2022
This has been my first ever rural romance, and I can see why people enjoy them so much. It’s the story of a woman trying to make a good life for herself and her four boys after her husband dies, and a man who returns to town with his two children after the death of his father. Together they work on establishing her flower farm, navigating parenthood, family relationships, and romance. The setting is gorgeous, the characters endearing and relatable, and the ending happy and hopeful.
July 3, 2022
*www.onewomansbbr.wordpress.com
*www.facebook.com/onewomansbbr
Paperbark Hill by Maya Linnell. (2022).
**Thank you to the author (and her publisher Allen & Unwin) for getting in contact and sending me a free copy of this novel, I am very appreciative; published 31st May 2022**
Diana and her four boys have had a tough 18 months but they look to be back on track. Diana has started her dream of opening a flower farm, with the help of an elderly dahlia expert so she won't have to do it alone. Locum pharmacist and single dad Ned hasn't been home in years but his father's death forces him home to the family farm. Dealing with his estranged mum and sorting out his dad's affairs, he plans on leaving as soon as possible, but what will it take for him to put down roots? With six children between them, can this pair juggle families, farms and an unlooked-for romance?
I was thrilled to receive this novel after enjoying the author's previous books that are about each of Diana's sisters. I loved both Diana and Ned who are single parents for different reasons. They have an immediate connection and readers will be hoping they manage to get their happily ever after. I found Diana's flower farm endeavor very interesting, and a beautiful spot for love to grow (pun intended haha). I liked that the children in the story are realistic with their little quirks, worries and pranks; I particularly thought the storyline around Diana's eldest Cameron was well done. I'm a bit sad to come to the end of this series (yes, all can be read as standalones) as it's been lovely going through each sister; I look forward to seeing what the author comes up with next.
Overall: highly and happily recommend for readers that enjoy Australian rural romance with some domestic drama.
*www.facebook.com/onewomansbbr
Paperbark Hill by Maya Linnell. (2022).
**Thank you to the author (and her publisher Allen & Unwin) for getting in contact and sending me a free copy of this novel, I am very appreciative; published 31st May 2022**
Diana and her four boys have had a tough 18 months but they look to be back on track. Diana has started her dream of opening a flower farm, with the help of an elderly dahlia expert so she won't have to do it alone. Locum pharmacist and single dad Ned hasn't been home in years but his father's death forces him home to the family farm. Dealing with his estranged mum and sorting out his dad's affairs, he plans on leaving as soon as possible, but what will it take for him to put down roots? With six children between them, can this pair juggle families, farms and an unlooked-for romance?
I was thrilled to receive this novel after enjoying the author's previous books that are about each of Diana's sisters. I loved both Diana and Ned who are single parents for different reasons. They have an immediate connection and readers will be hoping they manage to get their happily ever after. I found Diana's flower farm endeavor very interesting, and a beautiful spot for love to grow (pun intended haha). I liked that the children in the story are realistic with their little quirks, worries and pranks; I particularly thought the storyline around Diana's eldest Cameron was well done. I'm a bit sad to come to the end of this series (yes, all can be read as standalones) as it's been lovely going through each sister; I look forward to seeing what the author comes up with next.
Overall: highly and happily recommend for readers that enjoy Australian rural romance with some domestic drama.
June 25, 2022
⭐️4.5 Stars⭐️
Paperbark Hill by Maya Linnell
Maya Linnell has given us yet another beautiful story that oozes rural charm and genuinely loveable characters that you can comfortably connect to.
In this story we follow Diana McIntyre a mother of four boys and a recent widow. Her dream of a flower farm has become a reality with support from local flower grower and friend Colin.
Single dad Ned Gardiner returns home to the family farm when an unexpected death occurs. He doesn’t plan to stay long but what will it take for him to change his mind?
I loved the blossoming love match and learning all about the flower farm, I couldn’t put the book down! After reading this story it makes me want to take a country escape on a flower farm.
It clearly shows in Maya’s Linnell’s writing that this story is written from the heart with a great love for life in the country, family and of course flowers. A great read and escapism.
Publication Date 31 May 2022
Publisher Allen & Unwin Australia
A huge thank you to Allen & Unwin Australia for a copy of the book to read and review.
Paperbark Hill by Maya Linnell
Maya Linnell has given us yet another beautiful story that oozes rural charm and genuinely loveable characters that you can comfortably connect to.
In this story we follow Diana McIntyre a mother of four boys and a recent widow. Her dream of a flower farm has become a reality with support from local flower grower and friend Colin.
Single dad Ned Gardiner returns home to the family farm when an unexpected death occurs. He doesn’t plan to stay long but what will it take for him to change his mind?
I loved the blossoming love match and learning all about the flower farm, I couldn’t put the book down! After reading this story it makes me want to take a country escape on a flower farm.
It clearly shows in Maya’s Linnell’s writing that this story is written from the heart with a great love for life in the country, family and of course flowers. A great read and escapism.
Publication Date 31 May 2022
Publisher Allen & Unwin Australia
A huge thank you to Allen & Unwin Australia for a copy of the book to read and review.
Read
June 28, 2022Paperbark Hill by Maya Linnell is such a treat. It’s the perfect rural romance.
Setting the story on a flower farm and having a protagonist who does a lot of baking makes this novel a sensory delight.
Setting the story on a flower farm and having a protagonist who does a lot of baking makes this novel a sensory delight.
May 31, 2022
Thank you Allen & Unwin for sending us a copy to read & review.
First of all congratulations to Maya for a wonderful and very happy ending to this four book family rural saga.
It’s kind of bittersweet that after four years, four sisters and one big fictional family, that’s it’s all come to an end.
Paperbark Hill is a favourite and I thoroughly enjoyed every second and every word of this story.
Diana McIntyre and her four boys have had an emotional eighteen months.
But slowly they have put the pieces back together and are getting back to life.
With her flower farm up and running, her excitement is shining through.
Single dad and pharmacist Ned Gardiner and his two children have returned to Bridgefield after a tragedy.
He’s hasn’t been back for a long time and hurtful memories are deep.
A surprise person living on the land brings up the past and dealing with his father’s estate, Ned begins to relax and live.
When Diana and Ned are thrown together, an instant attraction happens but do they have time for romance and to open up their hearts?
I did read this rather quickly, I was so utterly transported to farm and family life, I breathed in everything and totally lapped it all up.
Simply, I loved it.
Maya is highly respected, much loved and very popular in the industry and you can see why, every story is told from the heart and soul, with memorable characters, quirky furry friends and a plot so deliciously inviting and captivating.
And don’t forget you will be licking your lips with hunger with all the delectable baking delights that continue all through Maya’s stories.
A book full of love, hope, second chances, life, family and heaps of authenticity.
Maya’s fictional towns are full of heartwarming community spirit and you just want to take a trip to them all and visit all the full of life cast.
While sadly this series has come to an end alas don’t fret new beginnings with a new book will be out next year.
An entertaining, enjoyable and lovely read that will have a permanent place in my heart and the hearts of the fans of the rural romance/fiction genre.
First of all congratulations to Maya for a wonderful and very happy ending to this four book family rural saga.
It’s kind of bittersweet that after four years, four sisters and one big fictional family, that’s it’s all come to an end.
Paperbark Hill is a favourite and I thoroughly enjoyed every second and every word of this story.
Diana McIntyre and her four boys have had an emotional eighteen months.
But slowly they have put the pieces back together and are getting back to life.
With her flower farm up and running, her excitement is shining through.
Single dad and pharmacist Ned Gardiner and his two children have returned to Bridgefield after a tragedy.
He’s hasn’t been back for a long time and hurtful memories are deep.
A surprise person living on the land brings up the past and dealing with his father’s estate, Ned begins to relax and live.
When Diana and Ned are thrown together, an instant attraction happens but do they have time for romance and to open up their hearts?
I did read this rather quickly, I was so utterly transported to farm and family life, I breathed in everything and totally lapped it all up.
Simply, I loved it.
Maya is highly respected, much loved and very popular in the industry and you can see why, every story is told from the heart and soul, with memorable characters, quirky furry friends and a plot so deliciously inviting and captivating.
And don’t forget you will be licking your lips with hunger with all the delectable baking delights that continue all through Maya’s stories.
A book full of love, hope, second chances, life, family and heaps of authenticity.
Maya’s fictional towns are full of heartwarming community spirit and you just want to take a trip to them all and visit all the full of life cast.
While sadly this series has come to an end alas don’t fret new beginnings with a new book will be out next year.
An entertaining, enjoyable and lovely read that will have a permanent place in my heart and the hearts of the fans of the rural romance/fiction genre.
December 29, 2024
Paperbark Hill is Maya Linnell's fourth novel featuring the McIntyre sisters Lara, Diana, Penny and Angie.
Paperbark Hill is Diana's story. Two years on from her husband's tragic death from an accident Diana is realising her dream of growing dahlias on a commercial level whilst also caring for her four young sons.
Ned Gardiner and his two children are off to their next stop for Ned's locum work as a pharmacist when he gets a call that his father has died. Putting his job on hold he returns to the family farm to sort out his father's affairs.
Paperbark Hill is such a fun story. I loved Diana! She is bubbly and confident, speaks her mind and is not afraid to ask for help.
Ned and Diana both have tragedy in their past and whilst Ned needs to reconcile with his mother and forgive the past, Diana is wracked with feelings of betrayal when she thinks about spending time with Ned. She also must deal with her eldest son's antagonism toward Ned as he feels he will take his father's place.
Paperbark Hill is not only Diana's story but a story about the whole community and how they come together and help each other.
Maya Linnell's sweet, slow-burn romance reads are very realistic. Spend a country Christmas with the McIntyre clan. I enjoyed being back with Diana, Lara, Penny and Angie.
Paperbark Hill is Diana's story. Two years on from her husband's tragic death from an accident Diana is realising her dream of growing dahlias on a commercial level whilst also caring for her four young sons.
Ned Gardiner and his two children are off to their next stop for Ned's locum work as a pharmacist when he gets a call that his father has died. Putting his job on hold he returns to the family farm to sort out his father's affairs.
Paperbark Hill is such a fun story. I loved Diana! She is bubbly and confident, speaks her mind and is not afraid to ask for help.
Ned and Diana both have tragedy in their past and whilst Ned needs to reconcile with his mother and forgive the past, Diana is wracked with feelings of betrayal when she thinks about spending time with Ned. She also must deal with her eldest son's antagonism toward Ned as he feels he will take his father's place.
Paperbark Hill is not only Diana's story but a story about the whole community and how they come together and help each other.
Maya Linnell's sweet, slow-burn romance reads are very realistic. Spend a country Christmas with the McIntyre clan. I enjoyed being back with Diana, Lara, Penny and Angie.
June 18, 2022
I have a Confession to make.... Paperbark Hill is the fourth book in the McIntyre sister series and is the end of the series but I still have the first book of the series, Wildflower Ridge unread on my shelf 🙈
Not for any other reason but I just started with the second book, then the third came out.. then the fourth..and I still just didn't get to pick it up... am I sad though? No! Why? Because this means this is not yet the end of the McIntyre sisters for me.
I have however, locked in Wildflower Ridge as one of my holiday reads for the first week in July so I am excited to finally hear Penny's story 😍
As always, with Maya’s stories, I loved this one. Her writing is exquisite and her knowledge of raising a family, the land, country life, flowers and baking shows through her beautifully detailed descriptions.
The characters, the small town community and the lovely family dynamics between the McIntyre family make you fall in love with it
all. It just naturally feels like home, there is no other way to describe the emotion I felt throughout this story.
A well written story of grief, love and second chances portrayed in such a endearing manner.
Not for any other reason but I just started with the second book, then the third came out.. then the fourth..and I still just didn't get to pick it up... am I sad though? No! Why? Because this means this is not yet the end of the McIntyre sisters for me.
I have however, locked in Wildflower Ridge as one of my holiday reads for the first week in July so I am excited to finally hear Penny's story 😍
As always, with Maya’s stories, I loved this one. Her writing is exquisite and her knowledge of raising a family, the land, country life, flowers and baking shows through her beautifully detailed descriptions.
The characters, the small town community and the lovely family dynamics between the McIntyre family make you fall in love with it
all. It just naturally feels like home, there is no other way to describe the emotion I felt throughout this story.
A well written story of grief, love and second chances portrayed in such a endearing manner.
November 30, 2022
I spent most of the pandemic wishing I lived in the country and Maya's latest book has only accentuated my desire! I thoroughly enjoyed Diana and Ned's 'love-in-your-forties' story with its complications of kids, elderly parents and busy careers. What Maya serves up is a brilliant slice of country life that's just as delicious and dinky-di as a lamington or an iced vo-vo.
June 4, 2022
I love love love a Maya Linnell novel, you know you are in the safest hands and you can just settle in and enjoy. This is the fourth of her novels that I’ve read and completely adored. I think Paperbark Hill is her best yet. The characters quickly become firm friends, with back stories and side stories galore. There is so much of the writing that is quintessentially Australian; ‘the stringybark tree that swayed like a drunken B&S ball-goer’. Loved the themes of grief, community, second chances and family that this rural fiction explores, and I will never not question the origin of flowers in florists and supermarkets ever again. I loved devouring the last of the McIntyre sisters story, and can’t wait to read whatever Maya Linnell writes next!
June 19, 2022
What a lovely story, bringing the stories of 4 beautiful sisters to an end. This story centre’s around Diana, and her love of baking, family, and all things flowers. Three of my favourite things. Loved this story from beginning to end. Highly recommend. Looking forward to your new novels in the future Maya.
September 24, 2024
I have absolutely loved the four books about the McIntyre sisters. I really wish there were more sisters to write about because I am feeling sad that I have to leave them now.
Looking forward to her next two books that I have in my library.
Looking forward to her next two books that I have in my library.
May 29, 2022
An engaging foray back into the lives of Diana McIntyre and her sisters.
A tale of family, loss, grief, second chances, new beginnings and flowers.
A tale of family, loss, grief, second chances, new beginnings and flowers.
July 29, 2022
First book by this author and i enjoyed it. It was good to see things from different sides
July 28, 2022
My favourite "McIntyre" book yet.
December 31, 2022
I was sad not to like this more as it was a gift, but nonetheless it was a light and quick read to finish off the year with. Though the story throughout the book didn’t end up hooking me in, it suffered more as a result of the often immature (for lack of a better word) writing. The plot also moved rather sluggishly except for a sudden burst of happenings in the last 30ish pages.
June 7, 2022
Books written with heart is how I would sum up Maya Linnell's writing style. Stories that make you feel and connect with her characters and the rural towns she writes about - I can vividly see these stories come alive in my mind.
I love the McIntyre Sisters and the whole series of books with four in total - Penny's story in Wildflower Ridge that started it all, Angie in Bottlebrush Creek and Lara in Magpie's Bend, and finally Diana in Paperbark Hill.
Paperbark Hill tells the story of Diana and her four boys who are still coming to terms with Pete passing away unexpectedly - Diana's love and the boy's Father. Eighteen months have passed and Diana's dream of starting her own flower farm is becoming a reality with the assistance of a local flower expert Colin.
Ned Gardiner is unexpectedly bought back to town due to his Father's unexpected death, he lives a life on the road with his children doing locum stints as a pharmacist. He never stays anywhere for long.
When Diana and Ned meet, a friendship forms - they are both grieving in different ways could they have a chance of happiness??
This book highlights grief, addiction, blended families, and the issues faced by the flower growers in Australia, I actually even shared with a local Flower Farm owner who I know, some of the points raised in the book like the grown not flown movement and the labeling of flowers with the country of origin as she has been lobbying for these changes for many years.
When you read one of Maya's novels there are glimpses of some of her real-life passions and in this book, it is her love of flowers especially dahlias, and her dream of one day running her own flower farm. I highly recommend following her on Instagram her posts are just delightful.
I was sad this was the final one in this series but excited to see what Maya brings us next.
I love the McIntyre Sisters and the whole series of books with four in total - Penny's story in Wildflower Ridge that started it all, Angie in Bottlebrush Creek and Lara in Magpie's Bend, and finally Diana in Paperbark Hill.
Paperbark Hill tells the story of Diana and her four boys who are still coming to terms with Pete passing away unexpectedly - Diana's love and the boy's Father. Eighteen months have passed and Diana's dream of starting her own flower farm is becoming a reality with the assistance of a local flower expert Colin.
Ned Gardiner is unexpectedly bought back to town due to his Father's unexpected death, he lives a life on the road with his children doing locum stints as a pharmacist. He never stays anywhere for long.
When Diana and Ned meet, a friendship forms - they are both grieving in different ways could they have a chance of happiness??
This book highlights grief, addiction, blended families, and the issues faced by the flower growers in Australia, I actually even shared with a local Flower Farm owner who I know, some of the points raised in the book like the grown not flown movement and the labeling of flowers with the country of origin as she has been lobbying for these changes for many years.
When you read one of Maya's novels there are glimpses of some of her real-life passions and in this book, it is her love of flowers especially dahlias, and her dream of one day running her own flower farm. I highly recommend following her on Instagram her posts are just delightful.
I was sad this was the final one in this series but excited to see what Maya brings us next.
July 1, 2022
The final book in the McIntyre sister’s series, this one did not disappoint! And there’s no need to read these in order – they are all stand alone books but once you’ve read one you’ll want to read them all! The books begin with Penny's story in Wildflower Ridge, then Angie’s in Bottlebrush Creek, followed by Lara’s in Magpie's Bend and finally Diana’s in Paperbark Hill.
Diana McIntyre, widow and mother of four has had a tough time of late but finally has some happiness in her life with an elderly dahlia expert teaching her everything she needs to know about flower farming.
Single dad and pharmacist Ned Gardiner loves to travel with his kids but the unexpected death of his father means he has to return to the family farm in Victoria. Dealing with his estranged mother and sorting his father's affairs, he has plans to leave as soon as possible, but will something stop him from making a hasty return to the nomadic life?
When Diana and Ned meet, they begin working together – but will they be able to manage the complexities of farming, families and friendship?
This book explores everything from romance, friendship and families to addiction, grief, teenage angst and social media. The descriptions of the landscapes made me feel like I was right there with Diana and Ned.
I loved the flower farm narrative and am a great supporter of the ‘grown not flown’ movement – don’t forget to support your local Aussie flower growers!
A blossoming rural romance (see what I did there?) which will leave you smiling like a sunflower.
Thank you Maya for a beautiful set of books surrounding the lives of the McIntyre sisters – I can’t wait to see what you do next.
Diana McIntyre, widow and mother of four has had a tough time of late but finally has some happiness in her life with an elderly dahlia expert teaching her everything she needs to know about flower farming.
Single dad and pharmacist Ned Gardiner loves to travel with his kids but the unexpected death of his father means he has to return to the family farm in Victoria. Dealing with his estranged mother and sorting his father's affairs, he has plans to leave as soon as possible, but will something stop him from making a hasty return to the nomadic life?
When Diana and Ned meet, they begin working together – but will they be able to manage the complexities of farming, families and friendship?
This book explores everything from romance, friendship and families to addiction, grief, teenage angst and social media. The descriptions of the landscapes made me feel like I was right there with Diana and Ned.
I loved the flower farm narrative and am a great supporter of the ‘grown not flown’ movement – don’t forget to support your local Aussie flower growers!
A blossoming rural romance (see what I did there?) which will leave you smiling like a sunflower.
Thank you Maya for a beautiful set of books surrounding the lives of the McIntyre sisters – I can’t wait to see what you do next.
July 2, 2022
Paperbark Hill is final episode in the McIntyre Sisters series.
Diana McIntyre is dealing with the loss of her husband Pete, raising four sons and bringing to life her dream of a flower farm.
Ned Gardiner, a locum Pharmacist, is on his way from Darwin with his children Willow and Doug to his original home in Victoria and to his father, Colin.
This is a story of love and loss and hope. It doesn't always run smoothly as is the way with families and life.
Thank you Maya Linnell for this and the other three stories, I have loved them all.
I will watch with great interest for Maya's next story. These four books have given us some very wonderful characters in the children...I do hope we will see them again in future books.
Diana McIntyre is dealing with the loss of her husband Pete, raising four sons and bringing to life her dream of a flower farm.
Ned Gardiner, a locum Pharmacist, is on his way from Darwin with his children Willow and Doug to his original home in Victoria and to his father, Colin.
This is a story of love and loss and hope. It doesn't always run smoothly as is the way with families and life.
Thank you Maya Linnell for this and the other three stories, I have loved them all.
I will watch with great interest for Maya's next story. These four books have given us some very wonderful characters in the children...I do hope we will see them again in future books.
July 17, 2022
This is the fourth book in the McIntyre Sisters series. Here we read the story of Diana McIntyre, her four sons, extended family and friends as well Ned (Edward) Gardiner and his daughter and son. Filled with details of small town country living in the foothills of the Grampians in western Victoria, it is filled with the joys and heartbreaks of family life, sibling and parental death, alcoholism and its aftermath, hope and love. Flower farming, Diana’s profession and passion, plays an important role. A warm and charming read.
June 14, 2022
Another heart warming rural romance from Maya Linnell. Dianna's story is filled with heart, romance, famlily, and flowers. The last in the McIntyre sisters series, it will be sad to say goodbye, but as always, I'm looking forward to what Maya produces next.
June 15, 2022
This was a brilliant book and a brilliant end to a series. Goodbye lovely McIntyre Family gosh i will miss you guys. Y’all come back now ya hear!
July 21, 2022
Paperbark Hill is the fourth and final book in the McIntyre Sisters series and my favourite. It follows the story of Diana McIntyre 18 months after the death of her husband Pete. Left to raise their four sons alone and trying to build her dream of running a flower farm, Diana has abandoned herself to the idea of getting a second chance at love. But like all good Maya Linnell books, in walks the dashing Ned Gardiner and suddenly the future looks a little brighter.
Anyone who has read Maya’s books knows that picking up the story of the McIntyre sisters and residents of Bridgefield is like meeting up with good friends you haven’t seen in awhile. It’s a little sad to know this is the last.
I had barely read any rural romance when I picked up Maya’s second book Bottlebrush Creek a few years ago (I’m still to go back and read the first!) but it showed me I could break out of my preferred crime fiction and historical fiction genres.
Maya is the master at creating a world that feels real and filling it with layered and loveable characters. And she sure knows how to write a dashing male lead!
Another winner from Maya and quite possibly her best…in my humble opinion.
Anyone who has read Maya’s books knows that picking up the story of the McIntyre sisters and residents of Bridgefield is like meeting up with good friends you haven’t seen in awhile. It’s a little sad to know this is the last.
I had barely read any rural romance when I picked up Maya’s second book Bottlebrush Creek a few years ago (I’m still to go back and read the first!) but it showed me I could break out of my preferred crime fiction and historical fiction genres.
Maya is the master at creating a world that feels real and filling it with layered and loveable characters. And she sure knows how to write a dashing male lead!
Another winner from Maya and quite possibly her best…in my humble opinion.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 72 reviews