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While You Were in the Country
He's finally met The One ... and she's dating his brother.
Ant Murphy has spent his life picking up after his famous AFL star brother. So when he gets a phone call telling him that Jed has ended up in the hospital after a drink-driving incident, Ant is far from surprised. He's not even shocked by Jed's manager's wild scheme to have him spend the next six weeks living in the country with a girlfriend Ant didn't even know about. All par for the course in his brother's crazy life.
In fact, Ant isn't thrown by anything ... until he turns up at the new girlfriend's farmhouse and discovers that he already knows her. Intimately.
Frankie Fox has dealt with a lot over the last few weeks. She's turned thirty, lost her roof in a storm, been ghosted by The One, and is now somehow dating her longstanding celebrity crush, THE Jed Murphy. But none of these come close to the blow of having The One turn up on her doorstep after weeks of silence ... and for him to turn out to be Jed's brother.
With a secret she's forbidden from revealing, growing feelings for her boyfriend's brother, two Murphys living in her home and her future happiness on the line, Frankie must ask the most important question of all: is all this trouble really worth a new roof?
Inspired by the popular 90s romcom While You Were Sleeping, this is both a nostalgic throwback and a modern-day love story about what happens when the man of your dreams isn't quite who you expected.
Ant Murphy has spent his life picking up after his famous AFL star brother. So when he gets a phone call telling him that Jed has ended up in the hospital after a drink-driving incident, Ant is far from surprised. He's not even shocked by Jed's manager's wild scheme to have him spend the next six weeks living in the country with a girlfriend Ant didn't even know about. All par for the course in his brother's crazy life.
In fact, Ant isn't thrown by anything ... until he turns up at the new girlfriend's farmhouse and discovers that he already knows her. Intimately.
Frankie Fox has dealt with a lot over the last few weeks. She's turned thirty, lost her roof in a storm, been ghosted by The One, and is now somehow dating her longstanding celebrity crush, THE Jed Murphy. But none of these come close to the blow of having The One turn up on her doorstep after weeks of silence ... and for him to turn out to be Jed's brother.
With a secret she's forbidden from revealing, growing feelings for her boyfriend's brother, two Murphys living in her home and her future happiness on the line, Frankie must ask the most important question of all: is all this trouble really worth a new roof?
Inspired by the popular 90s romcom While You Were Sleeping, this is both a nostalgic throwback and a modern-day love story about what happens when the man of your dreams isn't quite who you expected.
432 pages, Paperback
Published August 3, 2022
8 people are currently reading
91 people want to read
About the author
Eva Scott
21 books67 followersEva comes from a family of storytellers and has been writing her own stories since she could hold a pencil. Growing up in a multicultural neighbourhood in Melbourne, Eva developed her wanderlust and a passion for culture and language. She travelled the world, living in Britain before coming home to Australia to study Anthropology. Wanderlust got the better of her again, so Eva packed up and headed to Papua New Guinea to live and work where she was completely in her element. Eva's passion for the Australian country is born of her large extended family, which is spread out across the land. She volunteers at the local primary schools, teaching writing and working with children to incite a love of books and reading. Eva's books explore relationships, culture, our roles in changing society, love and loss. She loves finding connections with readers over shared experiences.
If you'd like to know more about Eva, her books, or to connect with her online, you can visit her website: evascottwriter.com
If you'd like to know more about Eva, her books, or to connect with her online, you can visit her website: evascottwriter.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews
July 30, 2022
This is a fabulous story inspired by the movie While You Were Sleeping it pulled me in with its witty dialogue and fabulous characters, it is filled with emotion and a loving heroine who will do an awful lot to help her AFL hero the one she has had a crush on for many years, but is he the person she thought he was, or maybe there is someone else for Frankie?
Frankie Fox is enjoying her 30th birthday on the Gold Coast with her sister Adele, after a few drinks she decides that it is time to get the old Frankie back an altercation in the pub brings her to meet Ant and a very fabulous and fun night is had but Frankie is called home to her small farm after a storm takes the roof of her house and that is the last she sees of Ant sadly even though she left her number.
Then not long after Frankie finds herself babysitting her AFL crush Jed Murphy, in desperate need of a new roof she signs an agreement to help bad boy Jed stay clean and out of the spotlight, this happens very quickly and another shock Jed’s brother arrives at her little farm and it is none other than Ant the one person she feels that she can love and now she is supposedly dating his brother what a predicament she finds herself in and how will things turn out?
Frankie’s quiet life on the farm with her geese, goats and chickens suddenly becomes hectic with Jed, Ant her sister Adele and her girlfriend Natalie all living there and Frankie has to keep her secret about her and Jed but her heart is crying out for Ant, keeping Jed from straying is not easy but he does throw himself into the community and soon he is very popular and starting to have feelings for Frankie that is the worst thing that could happen.
Truly this is such a great story, so very well written, it is fun with a beautiful romance I absolutely loved Frankie she has a heart of gold and the patience of a saint with what she goes through with Jed and trying to keep everyone calm and Ant what a guy I loved him so much he is the perfect hero for Frankie but he really went through a lot to win his girl, add in Adele and Natalie and Jed and this is a story not to be missed, do highly recommend it.
My thanks to Harlequin AU for my copy to read and review.
Frankie Fox is enjoying her 30th birthday on the Gold Coast with her sister Adele, after a few drinks she decides that it is time to get the old Frankie back an altercation in the pub brings her to meet Ant and a very fabulous and fun night is had but Frankie is called home to her small farm after a storm takes the roof of her house and that is the last she sees of Ant sadly even though she left her number.
Then not long after Frankie finds herself babysitting her AFL crush Jed Murphy, in desperate need of a new roof she signs an agreement to help bad boy Jed stay clean and out of the spotlight, this happens very quickly and another shock Jed’s brother arrives at her little farm and it is none other than Ant the one person she feels that she can love and now she is supposedly dating his brother what a predicament she finds herself in and how will things turn out?
Frankie’s quiet life on the farm with her geese, goats and chickens suddenly becomes hectic with Jed, Ant her sister Adele and her girlfriend Natalie all living there and Frankie has to keep her secret about her and Jed but her heart is crying out for Ant, keeping Jed from straying is not easy but he does throw himself into the community and soon he is very popular and starting to have feelings for Frankie that is the worst thing that could happen.
Truly this is such a great story, so very well written, it is fun with a beautiful romance I absolutely loved Frankie she has a heart of gold and the patience of a saint with what she goes through with Jed and trying to keep everyone calm and Ant what a guy I loved him so much he is the perfect hero for Frankie but he really went through a lot to win his girl, add in Adele and Natalie and Jed and this is a story not to be missed, do highly recommend it.
My thanks to Harlequin AU for my copy to read and review.
August 26, 2022
Thank you to Harlequin Australia for sending me a copy of this book to review.
This book exceeded my expectations. I loved it. It had memorable characters and moments you will never forget. I was entertained from start to finish. This book had a bit of everything. Fractured family relationships, farming lifestyle, love triangle and heartbreak. Eva captures the country exactly how it is. Add this to your tbr you wont regret it !
This book exceeded my expectations. I loved it. It had memorable characters and moments you will never forget. I was entertained from start to finish. This book had a bit of everything. Fractured family relationships, farming lifestyle, love triangle and heartbreak. Eva captures the country exactly how it is. Add this to your tbr you wont regret it !
November 22, 2022
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While You Were In The Country by Eva Scott. (2022).
**Thank you to Harlequin Australia for sending me a free copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review; published 3 August 2022**
Ant has spent his life picking up after his AFL star brother Jed. So he's not surprised when he learns Jed has been injured in a drink-driving incident, or that Jed is going to spend 6 weeks in the country with a new girlfriend. But when Ant arrives at the girlfriend's house, he already knows her - intimately. Frankie is dealing with a lot - she's turned 30, lost her roof in a storm, been ghosted by someone she thought could be The One, and is somehow now with her celebrity crush Jed. And then the guy who ghosted her turns up on her doorstep - Jed's brother Ant. With a secret she can't reveal, growing feelings for Ant, the two brothers in her house...is all this really worth a roof?
Even if you are not a regular romance reader, I think we all need a light love story in our lives every now and then. For me, this was an absolute delight in between some heavier novels. The storyline is inspired by the 1995 film 'While You Were Sleeping' but this one takes place in a rural Aussie town - I can't say I've seen that movie so it was all a pleasant surprise read for me haha. With a cast of great characters, the book's leads of Frankie and Ant are both extremely likeable and readers will be keeping their fingers crossed through the story that the two will manage to get a happy ever after together. With plenty of funny moments, flirting and light drama, this is an easy read.
Overall: if you are looking for a light-hearted and fun romance read, this one is definitely for you and I would happily recommend.
*www.facebook.com/onewomansbbr
While You Were In The Country by Eva Scott. (2022).
**Thank you to Harlequin Australia for sending me a free copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review; published 3 August 2022**
Ant has spent his life picking up after his AFL star brother Jed. So he's not surprised when he learns Jed has been injured in a drink-driving incident, or that Jed is going to spend 6 weeks in the country with a new girlfriend. But when Ant arrives at the girlfriend's house, he already knows her - intimately. Frankie is dealing with a lot - she's turned 30, lost her roof in a storm, been ghosted by someone she thought could be The One, and is somehow now with her celebrity crush Jed. And then the guy who ghosted her turns up on her doorstep - Jed's brother Ant. With a secret she can't reveal, growing feelings for Ant, the two brothers in her house...is all this really worth a roof?
Even if you are not a regular romance reader, I think we all need a light love story in our lives every now and then. For me, this was an absolute delight in between some heavier novels. The storyline is inspired by the 1995 film 'While You Were Sleeping' but this one takes place in a rural Aussie town - I can't say I've seen that movie so it was all a pleasant surprise read for me haha. With a cast of great characters, the book's leads of Frankie and Ant are both extremely likeable and readers will be keeping their fingers crossed through the story that the two will manage to get a happy ever after together. With plenty of funny moments, flirting and light drama, this is an easy read.
Overall: if you are looking for a light-hearted and fun romance read, this one is definitely for you and I would happily recommend.
July 17, 2022
Thank you Harlequin for sending us a copy to read and review.
The newest Queen of the rural romcom tempts readers with her latest essential reading.
Inspired by the 90’s Sandra Bullock film While You Were Sleeping with a country spin.
Ant and Frankie met, have an instant attraction and spend the night together.
Then disappear from each other’s life.
Jed, AFL superstar and Ant’s younger brother has an accident and ends up spending his recovery in the country with his new girlfriend.
This is all news to Ant but he’s not at all surprised.
Arriving on her doorstep, Ant is shocked to discover that Jed’s newest beau is Frankie, the girl of his dreams.
Somehow during all the bedlam, finding a missing piece of her roof during a storm, her busy life and waiting for the mysterious man to call from her one night of fun, Frankie has ended up dating her favourite AFL player.
Now there’s secrets, two Murphy brothers, one abrasive manager, feelings being messed with, many furry animals to tend and one chaotic situation.
And all this is under one roof.
I found myself very excited to be able to read an advanced copy of this book as Eva has become a firm favourite in this household.
An emotional, entertaining and embracing new tale with lots to adore.
Eva Scott introduces the readers to a wonderful set of characters, realistic situations, an inviting setting and the usual warm welcoming dialogue and banter between all.
A tale filled with witty moments, memorable scenes and a swoon of romance.
There’s no doubt that this title will melt hearts and capture a wide audience.
Another winning read from a very talented author.
The newest Queen of the rural romcom tempts readers with her latest essential reading.
Inspired by the 90’s Sandra Bullock film While You Were Sleeping with a country spin.
Ant and Frankie met, have an instant attraction and spend the night together.
Then disappear from each other’s life.
Jed, AFL superstar and Ant’s younger brother has an accident and ends up spending his recovery in the country with his new girlfriend.
This is all news to Ant but he’s not at all surprised.
Arriving on her doorstep, Ant is shocked to discover that Jed’s newest beau is Frankie, the girl of his dreams.
Somehow during all the bedlam, finding a missing piece of her roof during a storm, her busy life and waiting for the mysterious man to call from her one night of fun, Frankie has ended up dating her favourite AFL player.
Now there’s secrets, two Murphy brothers, one abrasive manager, feelings being messed with, many furry animals to tend and one chaotic situation.
And all this is under one roof.
I found myself very excited to be able to read an advanced copy of this book as Eva has become a firm favourite in this household.
An emotional, entertaining and embracing new tale with lots to adore.
Eva Scott introduces the readers to a wonderful set of characters, realistic situations, an inviting setting and the usual warm welcoming dialogue and banter between all.
A tale filled with witty moments, memorable scenes and a swoon of romance.
There’s no doubt that this title will melt hearts and capture a wide audience.
Another winning read from a very talented author.
August 5, 2022
*https://mrsbbookreviews.wordpress.com
Tasmanian resident and bestselling author Eva Scott makes another wonderful contribution to the rural set romantic comedy genre with her new release, While You Were in the Country. A book inspired by the classic and much loved 1995 movie While You Were Sleeping, this fresh title from one of Australia’s most honoured rural romance specialists will cast a spell on readers!
While You Were in the Country is the tale of two brothers and a woman stuck in the middle of a love triangle. Ant Murphy is the caring and reliable brother, who always has his brother’s back. But when Jed takes his high-flying lifestyle a step too far, he ends up in a drink driving accident. In order to recoup and gain some much-needed semblance in his life, Jed is sent to the country on a sabbatical with his new girlfriend. However, when Ant meets his brother’s new girlfriend, he is shocked. It turns out that Ant knows his brother’s girlfriend a little too well. Sparks fly when Ant and Frankie cross paths again. Frankie is still reeling from Ant’s mystery disappearance after they hit it off a few weeks ago. Now this young woman finds her heart torn in pieces by both Murphy brothers. With secrets, omissions, high emotions and difficult decisions to make, who will Frankie choose?
I’m really loving Australian rural romance author Eva Scott’s 1990s rom com inspired book revivals. After awarding Eva Scott’s previous release five stars, I was incredibly excited to read While You Were in the Country. This time around Eva Scott has linked Sandra Bullock’s much loved 1995 movie While You Were Sleeping to her latest rural romance comedy. This marriage between a cult movie classic and an Australian rural romance novel seems to be a winning formula for Eva Scott!
Love triangles are always great romance tropes and this one involves two brothers who are both involved with the same girl. It didn’t take long for me to develop a connection to Frankie, the heroine of this tale. I was soon in tune with Frankie’s feelings, misgivings, worries and personal hang-ups as Eva Scott’s consuming plot progressed. Frankie is a character who is literally torn in two different and distinct pieces thanks to her relationship with the two Murphy brothers. I definitely would not want to be in Frankie’s position, it sure was a tough one in the love stakes! Eva Scott explores the relationship dynamic between the two male siblings and their love for the same woman really well within the pages of While You Were in the Country. In Ant we have a wonderful paperback hero, a man who inherently cares for his brother and family, despite their misgivings. I loved this part about Ant. While his brother Jed, the other romantic interest in this tale, is colourful and complicated. Eva Scott brings our attention to issues of alcohol abuse, personal health and responsibility through Jed’s character. These themes, which accompany other side focal points such as economics and land pressures are handled well by Eva Scott.
Aside from the appealing protagonist set in While You Were in the Country, there are a gaggle of fun-loving animals that bring some extra light and laughter to Eva Scott’s rural drama. The hobby farm aspect of While You Were in the Country allows Scott to insert some key animal personalities into the narrative arc. Readers will find this area of the story contributes plenty of energy, entertainment and amusement to Eva Scott’s delightful rural yarn. The setting is in line with the narrative, enchanting readers with some much-needed country charm and respite. I know I valued my page-based trip to the Aussie countryside depicted in While You Were in the Country. Romance is around every corner in Eva Scott’s latest, reminding us that love is full of chaos, surprises and remarkable moments.
Eva Scott has secured her place as Australia’s leading writer in the field of film infused rural romance fiction thanks to her magical new novel, While You Were in the Country.
*I wish to thank Harlequin Australia for providing me with a free copy of this book for review purposes.
Tasmanian resident and bestselling author Eva Scott makes another wonderful contribution to the rural set romantic comedy genre with her new release, While You Were in the Country. A book inspired by the classic and much loved 1995 movie While You Were Sleeping, this fresh title from one of Australia’s most honoured rural romance specialists will cast a spell on readers!
While You Were in the Country is the tale of two brothers and a woman stuck in the middle of a love triangle. Ant Murphy is the caring and reliable brother, who always has his brother’s back. But when Jed takes his high-flying lifestyle a step too far, he ends up in a drink driving accident. In order to recoup and gain some much-needed semblance in his life, Jed is sent to the country on a sabbatical with his new girlfriend. However, when Ant meets his brother’s new girlfriend, he is shocked. It turns out that Ant knows his brother’s girlfriend a little too well. Sparks fly when Ant and Frankie cross paths again. Frankie is still reeling from Ant’s mystery disappearance after they hit it off a few weeks ago. Now this young woman finds her heart torn in pieces by both Murphy brothers. With secrets, omissions, high emotions and difficult decisions to make, who will Frankie choose?
I’m really loving Australian rural romance author Eva Scott’s 1990s rom com inspired book revivals. After awarding Eva Scott’s previous release five stars, I was incredibly excited to read While You Were in the Country. This time around Eva Scott has linked Sandra Bullock’s much loved 1995 movie While You Were Sleeping to her latest rural romance comedy. This marriage between a cult movie classic and an Australian rural romance novel seems to be a winning formula for Eva Scott!
Love triangles are always great romance tropes and this one involves two brothers who are both involved with the same girl. It didn’t take long for me to develop a connection to Frankie, the heroine of this tale. I was soon in tune with Frankie’s feelings, misgivings, worries and personal hang-ups as Eva Scott’s consuming plot progressed. Frankie is a character who is literally torn in two different and distinct pieces thanks to her relationship with the two Murphy brothers. I definitely would not want to be in Frankie’s position, it sure was a tough one in the love stakes! Eva Scott explores the relationship dynamic between the two male siblings and their love for the same woman really well within the pages of While You Were in the Country. In Ant we have a wonderful paperback hero, a man who inherently cares for his brother and family, despite their misgivings. I loved this part about Ant. While his brother Jed, the other romantic interest in this tale, is colourful and complicated. Eva Scott brings our attention to issues of alcohol abuse, personal health and responsibility through Jed’s character. These themes, which accompany other side focal points such as economics and land pressures are handled well by Eva Scott.
Aside from the appealing protagonist set in While You Were in the Country, there are a gaggle of fun-loving animals that bring some extra light and laughter to Eva Scott’s rural drama. The hobby farm aspect of While You Were in the Country allows Scott to insert some key animal personalities into the narrative arc. Readers will find this area of the story contributes plenty of energy, entertainment and amusement to Eva Scott’s delightful rural yarn. The setting is in line with the narrative, enchanting readers with some much-needed country charm and respite. I know I valued my page-based trip to the Aussie countryside depicted in While You Were in the Country. Romance is around every corner in Eva Scott’s latest, reminding us that love is full of chaos, surprises and remarkable moments.
Eva Scott has secured her place as Australia’s leading writer in the field of film infused rural romance fiction thanks to her magical new novel, While You Were in the Country.
*I wish to thank Harlequin Australia for providing me with a free copy of this book for review purposes.
August 10, 2022
A triumph, Eva Scott! Beautifully written small town community layered with lashings of AFL football, social media and insta-fame. The characters are richly drawn, quirky at times, and often all too real. Throw in a menagerie of rescue animals, a hay sculpture competition and a local footy comp and you have story that keeps you turning pages.
July 13, 2022
Copy received via Netgalley for an honest review
I am loving Eva Scott's ru-ro retellings of some of my fav rom coms of the 90's, and now we have an Aussie version of While You Were Sleeping.
The Frankie/Ant/Jed triangle (don't worry, there's no cheating) had me hopeful, but also so frustrated, knowing that things should be different, could be different if people youknpw, talked.
I afored Frankie and Ant from the start but Jed, nope, his spoiled brat selfish self just annoyed me - but thst wad the way it was supposed to be.
The lobging, the glances across the room, the wanting just flew off the page, it was palpable. It was the other person in the room the whole time.
It was a long road to get to the HEA but so worth it.
I hope we gwt more books like this from Eva Scott
I am loving Eva Scott's ru-ro retellings of some of my fav rom coms of the 90's, and now we have an Aussie version of While You Were Sleeping.
The Frankie/Ant/Jed triangle (don't worry, there's no cheating) had me hopeful, but also so frustrated, knowing that things should be different, could be different if people youknpw, talked.
I afored Frankie and Ant from the start but Jed, nope, his spoiled brat selfish self just annoyed me - but thst wad the way it was supposed to be.
The lobging, the glances across the room, the wanting just flew off the page, it was palpable. It was the other person in the room the whole time.
It was a long road to get to the HEA but so worth it.
I hope we gwt more books like this from Eva Scott
October 18, 2022
I was really looking forward to this book as it is written by one of my favourite Aussie Authors and it is a re-telling of one of my favourite rom-coms (While You Were Sleeping). However, this one just missed the mark for me. I am not a fan of AFL and given it was such a big part of this book, I just couldn't get into it. Add in that Jed was a really unlikable and very 2D character and when you consider he was in pretty much every scene of the book, it just made me disengage. The ending didn't work either - it was just all a little silly and over the top and so I just never got into the book. It lacked the charm and authenticity of Meet Me in Bendigo or Lonely in Longreach.
I also thought the ending seemed really rushed and incomplete
For all that, even though this wasn't my book - I am still a fan of Ms Scott as she has such a charm in her writing and it was beautiful seeing a book set in the Scenic Rim of SE Qld (a place I know so well). I will definitely continue reading more from this author (and even just bought both her Gladiator books that I can't wait to start).
Reading Challenge
Aussie Readers 2022 Annual Aussie Authors Challenge: Read a new (2022) release
Aussie Readers 2022 October Phillipa Nefri Clark Challenge: Phillipa lives just outside a beautiful town in country Victoria, Australia. Read a book set in the country.
Aussie Readers 2022 Queen Elizabeth II Challenge: Read books with author initials that spell out Elizabeth (E = Eva)
I also thought the ending seemed really rushed and incomplete
For all that, even though this wasn't my book - I am still a fan of Ms Scott as she has such a charm in her writing and it was beautiful seeing a book set in the Scenic Rim of SE Qld (a place I know so well). I will definitely continue reading more from this author (and even just bought both her Gladiator books that I can't wait to start).
Reading Challenge
Aussie Readers 2022 Annual Aussie Authors Challenge: Read a new (2022) release
Aussie Readers 2022 October Phillipa Nefri Clark Challenge: Phillipa lives just outside a beautiful town in country Victoria, Australia. Read a book set in the country.
Aussie Readers 2022 Queen Elizabeth II Challenge: Read books with author initials that spell out Elizabeth (E = Eva)
August 31, 2022
Could not have loved it more! This is a novel full of fun, wit, football, community and romance. I loved Frankie, Adele, Ant and even Jed. I absolutely adored the town of Kalbar and Frankie’s ‘geese, goats and chickens’. Although it really does leave you with lots to ponder; drug and alcohol abuse, mental health, media management, trolling and ‘interviews, photo shoots, drones and paparazzi…’ it’s just done with so much heart and humour! I loved it it! That the novel is one that is teasing itself ‘this was the kind of crap people talked about in movies. Love at first sight..impossible’ just made it that much funner! I love everything about While You We’re in the Country and can’t recommend it more highly enough.
August 8, 2022
4.5 stars
When you finish a book and immediately want to give it a big hug, including all of the fantastic characters (human and animals) you have became so invested in... isn't that the best feeling?!
WHILE YOU WERE IN THE COUNTRY by @the_real_eva_scott transports you to idyllic Kalbar and once I turned that cover, I could not put this book down! This charming small town romance had a wonderful 90s #romcom vibe with a swoonworthy romance, humour, great banter, fantastic friendships and a heartwarming sense of community.
✔ fauxmance
✔ forced proximity
✔ 'love-triangle'
✔ adorable rescue farm animals
✔ bad-boy celebraletes... #WhileYouWereInTheCountry had it all and more 🥰
Eva Scott's writing style is so engaging, it was so easy to connect with her characters and be drawn into their lives and the town of Kalbar. I loved that the supporting characters were just as well fleshed out and the Kalbar township social media interludes were an excellent touch. There's drama, laughs, comraderie, viral social media movements and plenty of swoon.
I enjoyed every minute of #WhileYouWereInTheCountry and lovers of 90s romantic comedies with a modern twist will to!
Thanks @harlequinaus for the gifted copy for review.
When you finish a book and immediately want to give it a big hug, including all of the fantastic characters (human and animals) you have became so invested in... isn't that the best feeling?!
WHILE YOU WERE IN THE COUNTRY by @the_real_eva_scott transports you to idyllic Kalbar and once I turned that cover, I could not put this book down! This charming small town romance had a wonderful 90s #romcom vibe with a swoonworthy romance, humour, great banter, fantastic friendships and a heartwarming sense of community.
✔ fauxmance
✔ forced proximity
✔ 'love-triangle'
✔ adorable rescue farm animals
✔ bad-boy celebraletes... #WhileYouWereInTheCountry had it all and more 🥰
Eva Scott's writing style is so engaging, it was so easy to connect with her characters and be drawn into their lives and the town of Kalbar. I loved that the supporting characters were just as well fleshed out and the Kalbar township social media interludes were an excellent touch. There's drama, laughs, comraderie, viral social media movements and plenty of swoon.
I enjoyed every minute of #WhileYouWereInTheCountry and lovers of 90s romantic comedies with a modern twist will to!
Thanks @harlequinaus for the gifted copy for review.
September 2, 2022
Set in and around Kalbar, in the beautiful Scenic Rim in Southern Queensland, an actual country town, this story has romance, rescue animals, drug and alcohol dependency issues, a love triangle, brothers with a complicated history, witty dialogue, strong female characters and Australian Rules Football. Can Frankie (Francesca) find true happiness? Altogether charming.
July 9, 2022
While You Were in the Country is a beautiful rural romance by Eva Scott. Frankie Fox after-party in town for her thirty birthday through she found Mr Right. However, Frankie realised that it was not the case after he did not reply to her message. On the way home from work one evening, Frankie comes across a car accident that would change her life forever and unexpectedly brings back into life her Mr Right. The readers of While You Were in the Country will continue to follow Frankie to find out what happens.
While You Were in the Country is another fantastic book by Eva Scott that I engaged with the characters and the book's plot from the start. At times I had to laugh at the actions of the characters. I also enjoy the way Eva Scott incorporates animals throughout this book. I love Eva Scott's portrayal of her characters and the way they interact with each other throughout this book. While You Were in the Country was well written and researched by Eva Scott. I like Eva Scott's description of the settings of While You Were in the Country, which allowed me to imagine being part of the book's plot.
The readers of While You Were in the Country will learn about the role of Sports managers to their clients. Also, the readers of While You Were in the Country will start to understand the problems of running a small rural property.
I thank NetGallery and the Publisher for my free ARC copy for an honest review. I recommend this book.
While You Were in the Country is another fantastic book by Eva Scott that I engaged with the characters and the book's plot from the start. At times I had to laugh at the actions of the characters. I also enjoy the way Eva Scott incorporates animals throughout this book. I love Eva Scott's portrayal of her characters and the way they interact with each other throughout this book. While You Were in the Country was well written and researched by Eva Scott. I like Eva Scott's description of the settings of While You Were in the Country, which allowed me to imagine being part of the book's plot.
The readers of While You Were in the Country will learn about the role of Sports managers to their clients. Also, the readers of While You Were in the Country will start to understand the problems of running a small rural property.
I thank NetGallery and the Publisher for my free ARC copy for an honest review. I recommend this book.
August 5, 2022
“While You Were in the Country” is a romance novel based on the premise of the movie “While You Were Sleeping”. There are significant plot differences, and the novel requires considerably more suspension of disbelief, but they share an amiable and light approach to their stories.
Frankie Fox is having a very bad patch. She’s just turned 30, and her life is far from sorted. She met the most delightful man, and he promptly ghosted her. A storm has ripped the roof off her house, and she has no idea how she’s going to pay for a replacement before the rest of it goes. She’s increasingly aware of the ongoing impacts of a childhood trauma; and her best friend is moving away.
And then Frankie rescues AFL star Jed Murphy from the aftermath of a drunken car crash, and before she knows it, she’s his fake girlfriend in return for enough money to replace her roof. All she has to do is keep him quiet in the country while he recovers (and rehabilitates his battered image), and not tell a soul that the relationship isn’t real.
Which sounds like a doddle until Jed’s brother turns up to lend a hand – and turns out to be the man who ghosted her. Ant in turn is horrified to find Frankie dating his brother – he thinks she’s the one who ghosted him, and he’s less than happy at the idea of the woman of his dreams in his brother’s arms.
As I said, I had to work quite hard to suspend my disbelief while reading this. Oddly, it wasn’t so much the central premise that bothered me – people do actually arrange fake relationships for a variety of reasons. I got hung up on Jed’s manager, Charlotte, demanding all and sundry sign NDA’s. Normally these are tailored to specific information that should not be disclosed, and include some incentive for those signing. But Charlotte seems to produce generic NDA’s at the drop of a hat, and expect people to sign them just because she demands it. Maybe this is me being too realistic for a romance novel, but I just couldn’t swallow this. On the other hand, some of you are probably rolling your eyes and thinking that you wouldn’t even notice this detail.
Once I got past that niggling detail, I enjoyed the novel a lot. It really is only a light nod to the premise of “While You Were Sleeping”, meaning this feels quite fresh and is fun to read. Although Scott’s main eye is on the romance, she’s got a few amusing points to make about celebrity and its’ accoutrements (like the paparazzi).
Characterisation is generally strong. I found the characters distinctive and believable. The push and pull between siblings – love, exasperation, jealousy, support, and at times bitterness – was well and believably drawn. This gave quite a bit of depth to a romance that was otherwise dependent on a rather contrived situation.
Unless you’re like me, and get snagged on one unlikely detail, you’ll probably enjoy this a lot. Although it’s not the most original novel I’ve ever read, it’s very well constructed and well written. The light touch suits the novel, and counter balances the serious issues raised.
This is a good novel for romance readers, offering a nod to a familiar movie and plot, but with enough difference to stand as an independent story.
You may also be interested in my review of “Meet Me In Bendigo” by Eva Scott:
https://otherdreamsotherlives.home.bl...
If you enjoyed this review, please visit www.otherdreamsotherlives.home.blog to read more.
Frankie Fox is having a very bad patch. She’s just turned 30, and her life is far from sorted. She met the most delightful man, and he promptly ghosted her. A storm has ripped the roof off her house, and she has no idea how she’s going to pay for a replacement before the rest of it goes. She’s increasingly aware of the ongoing impacts of a childhood trauma; and her best friend is moving away.
And then Frankie rescues AFL star Jed Murphy from the aftermath of a drunken car crash, and before she knows it, she’s his fake girlfriend in return for enough money to replace her roof. All she has to do is keep him quiet in the country while he recovers (and rehabilitates his battered image), and not tell a soul that the relationship isn’t real.
Which sounds like a doddle until Jed’s brother turns up to lend a hand – and turns out to be the man who ghosted her. Ant in turn is horrified to find Frankie dating his brother – he thinks she’s the one who ghosted him, and he’s less than happy at the idea of the woman of his dreams in his brother’s arms.
As I said, I had to work quite hard to suspend my disbelief while reading this. Oddly, it wasn’t so much the central premise that bothered me – people do actually arrange fake relationships for a variety of reasons. I got hung up on Jed’s manager, Charlotte, demanding all and sundry sign NDA’s. Normally these are tailored to specific information that should not be disclosed, and include some incentive for those signing. But Charlotte seems to produce generic NDA’s at the drop of a hat, and expect people to sign them just because she demands it. Maybe this is me being too realistic for a romance novel, but I just couldn’t swallow this. On the other hand, some of you are probably rolling your eyes and thinking that you wouldn’t even notice this detail.
Once I got past that niggling detail, I enjoyed the novel a lot. It really is only a light nod to the premise of “While You Were Sleeping”, meaning this feels quite fresh and is fun to read. Although Scott’s main eye is on the romance, she’s got a few amusing points to make about celebrity and its’ accoutrements (like the paparazzi).
Characterisation is generally strong. I found the characters distinctive and believable. The push and pull between siblings – love, exasperation, jealousy, support, and at times bitterness – was well and believably drawn. This gave quite a bit of depth to a romance that was otherwise dependent on a rather contrived situation.
Unless you’re like me, and get snagged on one unlikely detail, you’ll probably enjoy this a lot. Although it’s not the most original novel I’ve ever read, it’s very well constructed and well written. The light touch suits the novel, and counter balances the serious issues raised.
This is a good novel for romance readers, offering a nod to a familiar movie and plot, but with enough difference to stand as an independent story.
You may also be interested in my review of “Meet Me In Bendigo” by Eva Scott:
https://otherdreamsotherlives.home.bl...
If you enjoyed this review, please visit www.otherdreamsotherlives.home.blog to read more.
November 20, 2022
4.5 STARS
This book was kindly sent to me by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
Rural Queensland meets While You Were Sleeping in this sweet romance of a young woman unexpectedly caught between two brothers...
While in Coolangatta for her birthday, Frankie Fox meets a stranger and spends an evening with him, and it turns out to be the best night of her life. Until he never calls her after their night together. Just when she thinks she’ll never cross paths with Ant Murphy again, their worlds collide in an unexpected way when Frankie ends up posing as the girlfriend of Ant’s brother, AFL superstar Jed Murphy, after he’s involved in a car accident after another night of drugs and alcohol. Jed’s manager wants to reinvent his image, and having a girlfriend who lives in the rural town of Kalbar is just what they need to show the AFL world that Jed is getting his life back on track. Between needing a new roof on her farmhouse and wanting to help her favourite AFL player, Frankie agrees to go along with the plan until after the AFL Commission decides Jed’s fate. Ant and Jed haven’t had the smoothest relationship in recent years, and now they’re not only living under the same roof, but Ant and Frankie can’t fight their growing attraction to one another. Contracts have been signed and the media are wanting the latest scoop, so all three have to be on their best behaviour or have this whole plan unravel in an instant.
Eva has once again delivered a fabulous rural Australian version of a classic 90s rom-com! I’ll admit, I’ve never actually seen While You Were Sleeping, so while I knew the general premise of the story, I didn’t really know what to expect going into this book, but I thoroughly enjoyed the story that Eva crafted with the influence of the original story – you definitely don’t need to have any knowledge of the films that inspire Eva’s books because they’re just that good on their own!
I absolutely LOVED being in Kalbar, and one aspect I really enjoyed was the Kalbar Community Facebook group posts between each chapter – they gave such a fun insight into the residents of the community and really make you feel like you’re part of the community too! As someone from a small regional town with similar Facebook groups, the posts and comments were way too relatable.
This book is filled with so many fabulous characters and relationships, and not just romantic relationships, but also sibling and friendship ones that are just as important to the story as the romance. From Frankie and Ant’s sweet and swoony relationship, to the differing sibling bonds between Frankie & Adele and Ant & Jed, to the friendships that develop throughout the book, there was just so much to enjoy and become invested in.
Whether you’re a 90s rom-com fan, love rural Aussie romances, or maybe a bit of both, this is definitely the book for you! You’ll be left wanting to high-tail it to Kalbar in the hopes of being caught between two attractive brothers on a farm surrounded by goats and geese.
This book was kindly sent to me by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
Rural Queensland meets While You Were Sleeping in this sweet romance of a young woman unexpectedly caught between two brothers...
While in Coolangatta for her birthday, Frankie Fox meets a stranger and spends an evening with him, and it turns out to be the best night of her life. Until he never calls her after their night together. Just when she thinks she’ll never cross paths with Ant Murphy again, their worlds collide in an unexpected way when Frankie ends up posing as the girlfriend of Ant’s brother, AFL superstar Jed Murphy, after he’s involved in a car accident after another night of drugs and alcohol. Jed’s manager wants to reinvent his image, and having a girlfriend who lives in the rural town of Kalbar is just what they need to show the AFL world that Jed is getting his life back on track. Between needing a new roof on her farmhouse and wanting to help her favourite AFL player, Frankie agrees to go along with the plan until after the AFL Commission decides Jed’s fate. Ant and Jed haven’t had the smoothest relationship in recent years, and now they’re not only living under the same roof, but Ant and Frankie can’t fight their growing attraction to one another. Contracts have been signed and the media are wanting the latest scoop, so all three have to be on their best behaviour or have this whole plan unravel in an instant.
Eva has once again delivered a fabulous rural Australian version of a classic 90s rom-com! I’ll admit, I’ve never actually seen While You Were Sleeping, so while I knew the general premise of the story, I didn’t really know what to expect going into this book, but I thoroughly enjoyed the story that Eva crafted with the influence of the original story – you definitely don’t need to have any knowledge of the films that inspire Eva’s books because they’re just that good on their own!
I absolutely LOVED being in Kalbar, and one aspect I really enjoyed was the Kalbar Community Facebook group posts between each chapter – they gave such a fun insight into the residents of the community and really make you feel like you’re part of the community too! As someone from a small regional town with similar Facebook groups, the posts and comments were way too relatable.
This book is filled with so many fabulous characters and relationships, and not just romantic relationships, but also sibling and friendship ones that are just as important to the story as the romance. From Frankie and Ant’s sweet and swoony relationship, to the differing sibling bonds between Frankie & Adele and Ant & Jed, to the friendships that develop throughout the book, there was just so much to enjoy and become invested in.
Whether you’re a 90s rom-com fan, love rural Aussie romances, or maybe a bit of both, this is definitely the book for you! You’ll be left wanting to high-tail it to Kalbar in the hopes of being caught between two attractive brothers on a farm surrounded by goats and geese.
September 22, 2022
While you were in the Country is Eva Scott lastest Rural Romance about a young single woman who has to two brothers fall for her. Frankie Fox living the town of Kalbar who works with children who have disabilities and recues animals on her farm. On a night out with her sister and friends celebrating her 30th birthday on the Gold Coast Queensland she meets Ant Murphy, find a mutal attraction with him where they spend the night together. Frankie gets a call that the bad weather has pulled the roof of her home and leaves him to go home.
WHen driving home Jed Murphy AFL football player is driving aswell and has an accident which she helps him get to hospital. He is her favourite player as he plays for her favourite team. Frankie doesn't know that he is Ant's brother. By helping him sets off a chain of events that leads her to pretending to be Jed's girlfriend as he has some mental health issues, drug and alcholol to re-invent his football career.
As we read this beautiful written storyline Frankie finds herself not been able to tell Ant what is going on and that she loves him not his brother, Jed falls her and she doesn't want to hurt his feelings or worry that he will do something stupid. The beautiful town of Kalbar too a community willing to look after her and her sister Adele.
Ant' is dealing with his feelings for Frankie knowing that he has found the one but can't act on he feelings asdoesn't want hurt his brother. We find ourselves hoping that Frankie and Ant can find away to each other and help his brother Jed get the help he need as we read of the many situations that our characters go through to find their road to love and happiness.
Recomend this as must read. Hope read more of Eva Scott.
WHen driving home Jed Murphy AFL football player is driving aswell and has an accident which she helps him get to hospital. He is her favourite player as he plays for her favourite team. Frankie doesn't know that he is Ant's brother. By helping him sets off a chain of events that leads her to pretending to be Jed's girlfriend as he has some mental health issues, drug and alcholol to re-invent his football career.
As we read this beautiful written storyline Frankie finds herself not been able to tell Ant what is going on and that she loves him not his brother, Jed falls her and she doesn't want to hurt his feelings or worry that he will do something stupid. The beautiful town of Kalbar too a community willing to look after her and her sister Adele.
Ant' is dealing with his feelings for Frankie knowing that he has found the one but can't act on he feelings asdoesn't want hurt his brother. We find ourselves hoping that Frankie and Ant can find away to each other and help his brother Jed get the help he need as we read of the many situations that our characters go through to find their road to love and happiness.
Recomend this as must read. Hope read more of Eva Scott.
August 1, 2022
There’s so much to love about Eva Scott’s new book, While You Were In The Country. The story is filled with fabulous characters, both in terms of heroine Frankie Fox and her hero, Ant Murphy, and in terms of their supporting cast, Ant’s footballer brother Jed, Frankie’s sister Adele and Jed’s seriously scary manager Charlotte.
Ant and Frankie are both so easy to love. Both are decent, kind and caring people stuck in an awful situation when Frankie is forced to not only pretend to be Jed’s girlfriend but also to take him into her home, dry him out from his alcohol dependency, and put up with his entitled attitude. Meanwhile, poor Ant is anguished at the thought the girl he has fallen for appears to have fallen for his brother. I truly felt for him.
Although plenty of emotion is generated by the fact that Ant and Frankie have fallen for each other but can’t let on to Jed, there is also plenty of humour. The plot had me hooked from the start and when the story shifted from the Gold Coast to Kalbar in Queensland’s Scenic Rim, I felt right at home. Frankie has a hobby farm where she houses a quirky collection of rescue goats, geese and chooks, each with their own personalities. At times they almost stole the show with their antics.
This story flows effortlessly. I think it’s Eva Scott’s best yet. I couldn’t put it down and when I finished it, I wanted to go back to the beginning and read it all over again.
Ant and Frankie are both so easy to love. Both are decent, kind and caring people stuck in an awful situation when Frankie is forced to not only pretend to be Jed’s girlfriend but also to take him into her home, dry him out from his alcohol dependency, and put up with his entitled attitude. Meanwhile, poor Ant is anguished at the thought the girl he has fallen for appears to have fallen for his brother. I truly felt for him.
Although plenty of emotion is generated by the fact that Ant and Frankie have fallen for each other but can’t let on to Jed, there is also plenty of humour. The plot had me hooked from the start and when the story shifted from the Gold Coast to Kalbar in Queensland’s Scenic Rim, I felt right at home. Frankie has a hobby farm where she houses a quirky collection of rescue goats, geese and chooks, each with their own personalities. At times they almost stole the show with their antics.
This story flows effortlessly. I think it’s Eva Scott’s best yet. I couldn’t put it down and when I finished it, I wanted to go back to the beginning and read it all over again.
August 2, 2022
Ant Murphy has found himself once again, trying to resolve the problems of famous AFL star brother, Jed. So when he gets a phone call telling him that Jed has ended up in the hospital after a drink-driving incident, Ant arrives at the hospital to find that Jed’s new girlfriend is Frankie Fox. What Jed doesn’t know is that Frankie and Ant, spent one together several weeks ago. Thinking that Ant ghosted her, Frankie is confused to find that he never saw the note she left him, with her contact details. Yet it might all be too late for them, as she is holding tight to a secret that she is forbidden to reveal. So now she has feelings for Ant but must stay with Jed to help him hold onto his career.
An easy to read story, with two very likeable characters in Ant and Frankie. Both care for Jed, trying to save him from his dependence on alcohol, whilst fighting their very apparent feelings for each other. There is plenty of angst and some near hook-ups which were quite entertaining. Altogether, this was a great story, filled with amazing descriptions of southeast Queensland.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book from NetGalley and Harlequin Australia. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
An easy to read story, with two very likeable characters in Ant and Frankie. Both care for Jed, trying to save him from his dependence on alcohol, whilst fighting their very apparent feelings for each other. There is plenty of angst and some near hook-ups which were quite entertaining. Altogether, this was a great story, filled with amazing descriptions of southeast Queensland.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book from NetGalley and Harlequin Australia. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
September 25, 2022
Thank you to Harlequin Australia and Beauty and Lace Club for my copy.
This is my second Eva Scott book and it was a really light, fun and entertaining read.
You don’t have to wait long for the romance sparks to fly in this book, it happens in the first chapter.
I prefer a slow burn if romance is in a story and didn’t expect the romance to happen so soon, but let me just say, patience is needed as things do change and keep changing in the romance part of this story.
Set mostly in Kalbar, there are rescue animals on Frankie’s farm in the likes of goats and geese. Her house is also in dire need of a new roof and her ute is pretty much on its last legs. Also, there is plenty of the country community spirit and loveable characters.
Each chapter ends with a Facebook post from the Kalbar Township Community page with bits of humor, help requests and good old gossip.
The story also contains AFL players, drug and alcohol addiction and all the drama and social media storm surrounding AFL players and their lives.
I really liked the two main characters, Frankie and Ant and enjoyed the way the story unfolded and introduced just enough characters to keep it interesting, but not complicated.
This is my second Eva Scott book and it was a really light, fun and entertaining read.
You don’t have to wait long for the romance sparks to fly in this book, it happens in the first chapter.
I prefer a slow burn if romance is in a story and didn’t expect the romance to happen so soon, but let me just say, patience is needed as things do change and keep changing in the romance part of this story.
Set mostly in Kalbar, there are rescue animals on Frankie’s farm in the likes of goats and geese. Her house is also in dire need of a new roof and her ute is pretty much on its last legs. Also, there is plenty of the country community spirit and loveable characters.
Each chapter ends with a Facebook post from the Kalbar Township Community page with bits of humor, help requests and good old gossip.
The story also contains AFL players, drug and alcohol addiction and all the drama and social media storm surrounding AFL players and their lives.
I really liked the two main characters, Frankie and Ant and enjoyed the way the story unfolded and introduced just enough characters to keep it interesting, but not complicated.
November 23, 2022
While You Were in the Country was such a delightful story of romance blooming, farm life, publicity and just having fun surrounded by people.
Frankie Fox signs a contract to look after her crush AFL player Jed Murphy who is recovering from a car crash and who needs to lay low. Unbeknownst to Frankie, Jed’s brother Ant is the guy she had a one night stand with who she thought was The One. 😱
I absolutely love this heartwarming story, even though at times I felt the pace was a bit slow to my liking but that could have been me being impatient because that first chapter (prologue) had me at hello 👋 and all I was thinking “fight! Ooh food fight” 😆
The characters in this story felt real and so likeable even the ones that get on your nerves. The relationship between Frankie and Ant while they are helping Jed to recover from his accident was just swoon worthy. At times I felt sorry for Frankie and Ant because you want them to be together but at the same time you are worried about the consequences they might face.
Can Frankie and Ant wait 6 long weeks or does the roof come tumbling down around them?
Thanks Eva Scott, Harlequin and Netgalley for the digital copy of While You Were in the Country for reviewing purposes.
Frankie Fox signs a contract to look after her crush AFL player Jed Murphy who is recovering from a car crash and who needs to lay low. Unbeknownst to Frankie, Jed’s brother Ant is the guy she had a one night stand with who she thought was The One. 😱
I absolutely love this heartwarming story, even though at times I felt the pace was a bit slow to my liking but that could have been me being impatient because that first chapter (prologue) had me at hello 👋 and all I was thinking “fight! Ooh food fight” 😆
The characters in this story felt real and so likeable even the ones that get on your nerves. The relationship between Frankie and Ant while they are helping Jed to recover from his accident was just swoon worthy. At times I felt sorry for Frankie and Ant because you want them to be together but at the same time you are worried about the consequences they might face.
Can Frankie and Ant wait 6 long weeks or does the roof come tumbling down around them?
Thanks Eva Scott, Harlequin and Netgalley for the digital copy of While You Were in the Country for reviewing purposes.
February 19, 2023
Another fabulous country romance by author Eva Scott.
Frankie Fox turns 30 years of age and is having a night out at a Coolangatta pub when she meets Ant Murphy. He stands up for her when she has a run in with one of the patrons. Frankie and Ant hit it off immediately and after spending hours with Ant she ends up back at his place. The next morning she has to leave but writes her number on a shopping docket with black eyeliner hoping he will ring her as she feels she has met Mr Right. After not hearing from him she thinks she has been ghosted.
Weeks later she is driving home and comes across a single car accident and the driver is none other than her celebrity crush, troubled AFL Player, Jed Murphy. She checks on Jed and then calls for emergency vehicles to attend the scene. She is then contacted by Jed's management to sign a confidentiality contract and hide Jed at her farmhouse and in return will get her roof fixed which was damaged in a recent storm.
Imagine her surprise when Jed's brother turns up and it is none other than Ant Murphy!
This is where things get awkward and both Frankie and Ant have a lot of confusion and decisions to be made as they navigate the complicated journey that is their life....
Frankie Fox turns 30 years of age and is having a night out at a Coolangatta pub when she meets Ant Murphy. He stands up for her when she has a run in with one of the patrons. Frankie and Ant hit it off immediately and after spending hours with Ant she ends up back at his place. The next morning she has to leave but writes her number on a shopping docket with black eyeliner hoping he will ring her as she feels she has met Mr Right. After not hearing from him she thinks she has been ghosted.
Weeks later she is driving home and comes across a single car accident and the driver is none other than her celebrity crush, troubled AFL Player, Jed Murphy. She checks on Jed and then calls for emergency vehicles to attend the scene. She is then contacted by Jed's management to sign a confidentiality contract and hide Jed at her farmhouse and in return will get her roof fixed which was damaged in a recent storm.
Imagine her surprise when Jed's brother turns up and it is none other than Ant Murphy!
This is where things get awkward and both Frankie and Ant have a lot of confusion and decisions to be made as they navigate the complicated journey that is their life....
August 15, 2022
I love a good small town/rural romance and this one doesn't disappoint. While You Were in the Country is a new take on the fake relationship trope.
Set on the Gold Coast and the Scenic Rim you get a good sense of what life is like in this part of the world.
Frankie meets an amazing guy called Ant on her 30th birthday and has a life changing night with him. But when he nevers calls her she thinks she'll never see him again. Then one night she is driving behind an impaired driver who has an accident and turns out to be her AFL superstar crush, Jed Murphy who is known as AFL's bad boy. Somehow she ends up starting a fake relationship with Jed and then gets the shock of her life when Ant turns up on her farm. Turns out he's Jed's brother and the two don't get along.
This is not the book for someone expecting a lot of hot and steamy, this is really a look but not touch type of romance. The characters are great though and I think it's the first time I've read a book centered around an AFL star.
Thanks to Harlequin Mira and Netgalley.com for my complimentary eARC copy.
Set on the Gold Coast and the Scenic Rim you get a good sense of what life is like in this part of the world.
Frankie meets an amazing guy called Ant on her 30th birthday and has a life changing night with him. But when he nevers calls her she thinks she'll never see him again. Then one night she is driving behind an impaired driver who has an accident and turns out to be her AFL superstar crush, Jed Murphy who is known as AFL's bad boy. Somehow she ends up starting a fake relationship with Jed and then gets the shock of her life when Ant turns up on her farm. Turns out he's Jed's brother and the two don't get along.
This is not the book for someone expecting a lot of hot and steamy, this is really a look but not touch type of romance. The characters are great though and I think it's the first time I've read a book centered around an AFL star.
Thanks to Harlequin Mira and Netgalley.com for my complimentary eARC copy.
July 12, 2022
I received this ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Frankie Fox has a magical night with Ant and leaves him her number, but he never calls. Never mind - there's soon another man in her life when Jed Murphy, her longstanding AFL crush and infamous bad boy, crashes his car in front of her. Frankie is quickly roped in to pose as Jed's fake girlfriend in an attempt to repair his reputation. There's an even bigger complication, however - Ant is Jed's brother!
I was a little wary after the last romcom-inspired book Eva Scott wrote, since it stayed too close to its source material, but she nailed this one. I absolutely loved reading While You Were in the Country. It contains the best aspects of its progenitor (While You Were Sleeping), but it's still quite capable of standing on its own - some parts of it might have even been better! And there's so much delicious drama that you're going to need a spoon to eat it all up.
Frankie Fox has a magical night with Ant and leaves him her number, but he never calls. Never mind - there's soon another man in her life when Jed Murphy, her longstanding AFL crush and infamous bad boy, crashes his car in front of her. Frankie is quickly roped in to pose as Jed's fake girlfriend in an attempt to repair his reputation. There's an even bigger complication, however - Ant is Jed's brother!
I was a little wary after the last romcom-inspired book Eva Scott wrote, since it stayed too close to its source material, but she nailed this one. I absolutely loved reading While You Were in the Country. It contains the best aspects of its progenitor (While You Were Sleeping), but it's still quite capable of standing on its own - some parts of it might have even been better! And there's so much delicious drama that you're going to need a spoon to eat it all up.
September 5, 2022
Eva Scott has written a fabulous book that takes the reader on a heartwarming rural romance journey!
The storyline weaves a wonderful tale of perhaps finding the perfect man, the characters are relatable and refreshing!
I loved Frankie’s warm and caring nature, she could be anyone’s friend. The rural aspect of this story is absolutely a joy to read!
Thanks to Harlequin AU, NetGalley and the wonderful Eva Scott for the opportunity to read and review this book.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
The storyline weaves a wonderful tale of perhaps finding the perfect man, the characters are relatable and refreshing!
I loved Frankie’s warm and caring nature, she could be anyone’s friend. The rural aspect of this story is absolutely a joy to read!
Thanks to Harlequin AU, NetGalley and the wonderful Eva Scott for the opportunity to read and review this book.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
September 28, 2022
Hello Everyone , I just finished reading this wonderful book t .......this is about Frankie Fox who owns a farmhouse , she is a loyal football follower , what happens when she discovers who the person is in that car and not only that but the twists and secrets that she has to keep ...and how is this all connected with her and the farmhouse ..........this is brilliant how Eva brought all this together ..........loved this book ........enjoy 😀
September 2, 2023
This was my first read of an Eva Scott novel and it won't be my last. Inspired by my one my favourite movies I had high expectations and it met and exceeded them all. Complex (although lovable) characters, an adorable setting, some scene stealing animals and a story with enough twists and turns to keep you guessing how on earth it would all end (and it was an awesome ending). A massive YES from me.
August 17, 2022
Eva Scott’s new rural romance has it all!
Great humour, witty banter, wonderful characters, a small town setting and a faux romance / love triangle!
I don’t think I will be able to watch the AFL’s big night of nights in the same way after reading this book.
While You Were in the Country is a must read for all lovers of romance novels!
Great humour, witty banter, wonderful characters, a small town setting and a faux romance / love triangle!
I don’t think I will be able to watch the AFL’s big night of nights in the same way after reading this book.
While You Were in the Country is a must read for all lovers of romance novels!
August 17, 2022
I absolutely loved this book, so easy to visualise each character and surroundings, it was a hard book to put down and go about my daily work, hopefully a sequel may come out, I want to know more what happens to each character. Fabulous read.
Definitely a book that's up in my top 3.
Definitely a book that's up in my top 3.
October 8, 2024
A fun page-turner, in the humorous style of Sophie Kinsella but in an Aussie context. Really enjoyable read. Our only query is the Cover Art, which misrepresents the story and does the book a disservice since blokes might buy it (AFL connection) if cover was more in keeping with the story.
September 21, 2022
Really enjoyed this book occasionally it went a bit off track and there were a few too many “posts” but other than that it was a very different story which kept me intrigued
December 23, 2022
took a long time to finish
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