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Wagtail Ridge #1
The Library at Wagtail Ridge
An unexpected and unusual inheritance sets a young woman on the road to discover her mother's deepest secret. A charming and heartfelt rural romance perfect for readers of Rachael Johns and Karly Lane.
When Lou Taylor inherits a quaint country cottage and a mobile library full of books from her birth mother, she heads to the small town of Wagtail Ridge to learn more about the woman she never knew. Curiously, the last piece of the bequest is a handwritten letter, the first of many Luca left scattered along the library's route in hopes of finally sharing her secrets with the daughter she had to give up.
The townspeople of Wagtail Ridge flock around Lou, wanting to share the stories of Luca's life, but she knows she must learn about her birth mother in the way Luca intended. Jake Barnes, her new neighbour, offers to help her follow the trail, but weighing on his conscience is a promise he made to Luca - a secret that now stands between him and the woman who's slowly capturing his heart...
As the kilometres fly by, Lou gradually untangles who her mother was and what lay behind the choices she made. At the same time, she finds herself drawing ever closer to kind, handsome Jake. But will it all be enough to keep her in Wagtail Ridge when she has another happy life waiting for her in the city?
A captivating story of love, family and belonging from award-winning romance author Janet Gover.
Romantic Elements RuBY 2023, Romance Writers of Australia
PRAISE FOR JANET
'Tender, caring and wise, Close to Home is a book to embrace with all your heart.' - Mrs B's Book Reviews
'Like the warmth of a cup of tea and the atmosphere of smells from the cake baking this story will fuse all the senses and bring a smile to the face ... a new dimension to a heartwarming outback tale.' - HappyValley BooksReads
When Lou Taylor inherits a quaint country cottage and a mobile library full of books from her birth mother, she heads to the small town of Wagtail Ridge to learn more about the woman she never knew. Curiously, the last piece of the bequest is a handwritten letter, the first of many Luca left scattered along the library's route in hopes of finally sharing her secrets with the daughter she had to give up.
The townspeople of Wagtail Ridge flock around Lou, wanting to share the stories of Luca's life, but she knows she must learn about her birth mother in the way Luca intended. Jake Barnes, her new neighbour, offers to help her follow the trail, but weighing on his conscience is a promise he made to Luca - a secret that now stands between him and the woman who's slowly capturing his heart...
As the kilometres fly by, Lou gradually untangles who her mother was and what lay behind the choices she made. At the same time, she finds herself drawing ever closer to kind, handsome Jake. But will it all be enough to keep her in Wagtail Ridge when she has another happy life waiting for her in the city?
A captivating story of love, family and belonging from award-winning romance author Janet Gover.
Romantic Elements RuBY 2023, Romance Writers of Australia
PRAISE FOR JANET
'Tender, caring and wise, Close to Home is a book to embrace with all your heart.' - Mrs B's Book Reviews
'Like the warmth of a cup of tea and the atmosphere of smells from the cake baking this story will fuse all the senses and bring a smile to the face ... a new dimension to a heartwarming outback tale.' - HappyValley BooksReads
335 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 1, 2022
20 people are currently reading
169 people want to read
About the author
Janet Gover
24 books112 followersJanet Gover was born in Melbourne, Australia. When she was very small, her family moved to a small country town in Queensland. She studied Journalism and Politics at Queensland University. She went on to forge a path in television journalism, she worked as a reporter and producer of news and other factual TV programmes in Australia, Hong Kong and the UK. Today matched with a Englishman, she lives in West London and works as a consultant, implementing high end digital systems in TV stations and production facilities in Europe, Asia and the Middle East.
Janet Gover published her first short story, called The Last Dragon, in 2002, and since then she published some short stories. In 2007 she won the Romantic Novelists' Association's Elizabeth Goudge Trophy, and now she is part of the RNA's Committee.. She published her first romance novel in 2009.
Janet Gover published her first short story, called The Last Dragon, in 2002, and since then she published some short stories. In 2007 she won the Romantic Novelists' Association's Elizabeth Goudge Trophy, and now she is part of the RNA's Committee.. She published her first romance novel in 2009.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 76 reviews
November 9, 2024
Lou Taylor lives in Sydney with her mum Fiona and dad Richard. Lou was adopted as a toddler and her parents are loving and supportive. Lou receives a letter from a solicitor, she’s inherited her birth mothers estate and it’s in a small country town called Wagtail Ridge. Fiona encourages Lou to visit Wagtail Ridge, she thinks it will answer her questions and give her closure.
Lou discovers she’s inherited a quaint cottage, a small amount of money and a mobile library full of books. Lou’s birth mother Luca lived in Wattle Ridge her whole life, everyone in town knew her, she was well liked and some people remember Lou as a baby. Lou doesn’t know how to deal with the emotions and feelings this creates, and it’s a very unusual situation to be in. Lou planned to sell the cottage, return to Sydney and get a job.
Lou meets Jake Barnes, he's been taking care of Luca’s cottage since she passed away and he shows her the library truck kept in an old shed in the backyard. Luca left her a series of letters, they explain why she made the choices she did, to find them, Lou has to travel the mobile libraries route and Jake offers to drive the truck for her. Lou and Jake set off for their first library run, a tiny town and Lou quickly discovers how much the residents look forward to the bus arriving, everyone loved Luca and the service she provided.
At each town Lou is given a book, inside is a letter from Luca and she tells her daughter about her life and why she put her up for adoption. Lou didn’t know what to expect when she first started the journey into finding her birth mother, what she would uncover and how it would make her feel. At times Lou is really angry and frustrated, and she starts to understand her mother did love her and she had to make a very difficult decision. Lou develops feelings for Jake, she starts to enjoy living in Wagtail Ridge, does she want to move back to Sydney and she hasn’t found out the identity of her birth-father?
I received a digital copy of The Library at Wagtail Ridge from NetGalley and Harlequin Australia in exchange for an honest review. Janet Grover has written a though provoking and sensitive narrative about adoption, and how there's always two sides to the story. I highly recommend this book, it made me feel really emotional and the characters are wonderful, please write a sequel and five stars from me.
Lou discovers she’s inherited a quaint cottage, a small amount of money and a mobile library full of books. Lou’s birth mother Luca lived in Wattle Ridge her whole life, everyone in town knew her, she was well liked and some people remember Lou as a baby. Lou doesn’t know how to deal with the emotions and feelings this creates, and it’s a very unusual situation to be in. Lou planned to sell the cottage, return to Sydney and get a job.
Lou meets Jake Barnes, he's been taking care of Luca’s cottage since she passed away and he shows her the library truck kept in an old shed in the backyard. Luca left her a series of letters, they explain why she made the choices she did, to find them, Lou has to travel the mobile libraries route and Jake offers to drive the truck for her. Lou and Jake set off for their first library run, a tiny town and Lou quickly discovers how much the residents look forward to the bus arriving, everyone loved Luca and the service she provided.
At each town Lou is given a book, inside is a letter from Luca and she tells her daughter about her life and why she put her up for adoption. Lou didn’t know what to expect when she first started the journey into finding her birth mother, what she would uncover and how it would make her feel. At times Lou is really angry and frustrated, and she starts to understand her mother did love her and she had to make a very difficult decision. Lou develops feelings for Jake, she starts to enjoy living in Wagtail Ridge, does she want to move back to Sydney and she hasn’t found out the identity of her birth-father?
I received a digital copy of The Library at Wagtail Ridge from NetGalley and Harlequin Australia in exchange for an honest review. Janet Grover has written a though provoking and sensitive narrative about adoption, and how there's always two sides to the story. I highly recommend this book, it made me feel really emotional and the characters are wonderful, please write a sequel and five stars from me.
November 19, 2022
When Lou Taylor arrived home one afternoon to see her parents sitting at the kitchen table, concern on their faces, she immediately felt something was wrong. The letter waiting for her was from a solicitor, and it was to tell her she'd inherited property from her birth mother, a woman Lou didn't remember, and didn't really want to know about. Lou had always known she was adopted, but the love she held for her parents was such that she didn't feel the need to find her birth parents. Now though, it seemed her birth mother had died, leaving a mystery for Lou - but was it one she was ready to solve?
With the encouragement and support of her parents back in Sydney, Lou headed to the small town of Wagtail Ridge in the Hunter Valley and the cottage she'd inherited. What she discovered was a town of friendly folk who all knew and loved Luca Bonnet, Lou's mother, and who wanted to talk to Lou about her. But Lou wasn't ready, and confusion saw her hiding away, unsure whether to leave it all in the hands of the local real estate, or work through what she had to do. The letter she discovered was the beginning of a trail which would lead her to answers - but would they help? Jake Barnes, a neighbour and the person who'd been looking after the cottage grounds, and his retriever Ollie, were there if she needed them, as was Luca's best friend Deb. But were they enough? And what could she possibly do with the mobile library in the shed?
The Library at Wagtail Ridge is another wonderfully written novel by Aussie author Janet Gover, and I thoroughly enjoyed it. Wagtail Ridge is a small fictional country town just like many throughout Australia, filled with caring, friendly people (along with the occasional busybody!) who took Lou under their wing, giving her space when she needed it, and wrapping her in their embrace when she needed that. I'm really loving Ms Gover's work, and look forward to her next. Highly recommended.
With thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
With the encouragement and support of her parents back in Sydney, Lou headed to the small town of Wagtail Ridge in the Hunter Valley and the cottage she'd inherited. What she discovered was a town of friendly folk who all knew and loved Luca Bonnet, Lou's mother, and who wanted to talk to Lou about her. But Lou wasn't ready, and confusion saw her hiding away, unsure whether to leave it all in the hands of the local real estate, or work through what she had to do. The letter she discovered was the beginning of a trail which would lead her to answers - but would they help? Jake Barnes, a neighbour and the person who'd been looking after the cottage grounds, and his retriever Ollie, were there if she needed them, as was Luca's best friend Deb. But were they enough? And what could she possibly do with the mobile library in the shed?
The Library at Wagtail Ridge is another wonderfully written novel by Aussie author Janet Gover, and I thoroughly enjoyed it. Wagtail Ridge is a small fictional country town just like many throughout Australia, filled with caring, friendly people (along with the occasional busybody!) who took Lou under their wing, giving her space when she needed it, and wrapping her in their embrace when she needed that. I'm really loving Ms Gover's work, and look forward to her next. Highly recommended.
With thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
February 13, 2023
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The Library at Wagtail Ridge by Janet Gover. (2022).
**Thank you to Harlequin Australia for sending me a free copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review; published 30 November 2022**
When Lou inherits a cottage and a mobile truck library from the birth mother she never knew, she heads to the small town of Wagtail Ridge to learn about her mum. There she finds a trail of handwritten letters that Luca left to share her secrets. The townspeople are eager to share their stories of Luca and her new neighbour Jake offers to help with the letter trail. Weighing on his conscience is a promise he made to Luca, a secret that stands between him and Lou, who he is falling for. Lou gradually untangles her mother's life and feels close to Jake, but is it enough to make her stay?
This one was a truly lovely story; a nice 'refresher' between some darker reads. Lou has had a great life with her loving adopted parents when out of the blue she learns that not only has her biological mother died, but she has inherited a cottage and a mobile library. Considering Lou never knew her mother at all, it's quite the shock for her and it makes for emotional reading as Lou learns tidbits about her mother's history. I loved the concept of the mobile library truck visiting small towns without libraries, it's an acknowledgement of the wonderful role libraries of any kind play in people's lives. The character perspectives alternate between Lou and Jake, who was a friend of Luca and also happens to be an attractive kind and single man...
Overall: happily recommend this charming Aussie contemporary domestic drama fiction with a dash of romance.
*www.facebook.com/onewomansbbr
The Library at Wagtail Ridge by Janet Gover. (2022).
**Thank you to Harlequin Australia for sending me a free copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review; published 30 November 2022**
When Lou inherits a cottage and a mobile truck library from the birth mother she never knew, she heads to the small town of Wagtail Ridge to learn about her mum. There she finds a trail of handwritten letters that Luca left to share her secrets. The townspeople are eager to share their stories of Luca and her new neighbour Jake offers to help with the letter trail. Weighing on his conscience is a promise he made to Luca, a secret that stands between him and Lou, who he is falling for. Lou gradually untangles her mother's life and feels close to Jake, but is it enough to make her stay?
This one was a truly lovely story; a nice 'refresher' between some darker reads. Lou has had a great life with her loving adopted parents when out of the blue she learns that not only has her biological mother died, but she has inherited a cottage and a mobile library. Considering Lou never knew her mother at all, it's quite the shock for her and it makes for emotional reading as Lou learns tidbits about her mother's history. I loved the concept of the mobile library truck visiting small towns without libraries, it's an acknowledgement of the wonderful role libraries of any kind play in people's lives. The character perspectives alternate between Lou and Jake, who was a friend of Luca and also happens to be an attractive kind and single man...
Overall: happily recommend this charming Aussie contemporary domestic drama fiction with a dash of romance.
February 21, 2023
All the stars for me. This book will stay in my heart and soul. It takes you on a journey where Lou goes to Wagtail Ridge to find her heritage. Books and Libraries are a central theme in this story and as a book lover , I thoroughly enjoyed it. You will be feeling all the emotions when you read this one. Cant wait to read more of her books. Loved it.
April 30, 2023
The Library at Wagtail Ridge by Aussie author Janet Gover was such a delightful book to read. Apart from being well written, this book had likeable characters, a wonderful setting and a storyline that held my interest to the last page. And I must make mention to the beautiful cover. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and would like to thank Netgalley and the publishers for my ARC to read and review. Highly recommended.
October 9, 2022
The Library at Wagrail Ridge is a beautiful rural romance by Janet Gover. Lou Taylor was looking forward to starting her new adventure after finishing her degree. However, Lou did not expect to end up in a small rural community due to her biological mother's will. On arrival at Wagtail Ridge, Lou meets Jake Barnes and discovers she has inherited a mobile library and a mystery. The readers of The Library at Wagrail Ridge will continue to follow Lou Taylor and Jake Barnes to find out what happens.
I put this book on my TR shelf due to the title of the book. Wow, this is the first book I have read by Janet Gover and not sure how I missed reading other books by this author. I had no problem engaging with this book's characters or story from the start, and I also had difficulties putting the book down. I love Janet Gover's portrayal of the characters and their interaction with each other throughout this book. The Library at Wagrail Ridge is well-written and researched by Janet Gover. I like Janet Gover's description of The Library At Wagrail Ridge settings, which allowed me to imagine being part of the book's plot.
The readers of The Library at Wagrail Ridge will learn about another consequence of miss diagnosis of medical conditions for the families and the suffering. Also, The Library at Wagrail Ridge readers will understand the importance of volunteers to help train guide dog puppies.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for my ARC copy to read in exchange for an honest review. I recommend this book.
I put this book on my TR shelf due to the title of the book. Wow, this is the first book I have read by Janet Gover and not sure how I missed reading other books by this author. I had no problem engaging with this book's characters or story from the start, and I also had difficulties putting the book down. I love Janet Gover's portrayal of the characters and their interaction with each other throughout this book. The Library at Wagrail Ridge is well-written and researched by Janet Gover. I like Janet Gover's description of The Library At Wagrail Ridge settings, which allowed me to imagine being part of the book's plot.
The readers of The Library at Wagrail Ridge will learn about another consequence of miss diagnosis of medical conditions for the families and the suffering. Also, The Library at Wagrail Ridge readers will understand the importance of volunteers to help train guide dog puppies.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for my ARC copy to read in exchange for an honest review. I recommend this book.
July 21, 2023
This is such a beautiful story, wonderful characters, fabulous setting and filled with emotion, I did shed a few tears reading this one as I got to know Lou, Jake and the lovely people from Wagtail Ridge and the surrounding communities. What can I say who doesn’t love a library?
Lou Taylor has grown up very happy in the suburbs of Sydney with her adoptive parents, she has just finished her degree and has been working at the university till she finds that special job, arriving home one day there is a letter from the solicitor who handled her adoption all those years ago and Lou is not sure whether she wants to open it or not.
Lou visits the solicitor and finds out that she has been left a small cottage in the small town of Wagtail Ridge from her birth mother, the woman who never wanted to be in her life, she packs up and goes to see the cottage, what she finds is not only the cottage but a mobile library and a handwritten letter from Luca, her mother, this starts a journey to find out all about her mother.
She meets Jake, who has been caring for the house since Luca’s death and some of the lovely townsfolk who are all pressing for her to keep the mobile library going and with a task to find more letters Jake agrees to drive the truck and show Lou around and the more Lou learns that harder it is for her to turn her back on Wagtail Ridge and perhaps Jake as well.
So many emotions flow from the pages in this truly beautiful story, come along and meet the wonderful characters and Ollie the Labrador who plays a big part in the story, will Lou sell up and move back to the city or will she make her home in Wagtail Ridge and keep the mobile library going?
I do highly recommend this one, Janet Gover never disappoints.
My thanks to the publisher, Harlequin AU and Netgalley for my copy to read and review.
Lou Taylor has grown up very happy in the suburbs of Sydney with her adoptive parents, she has just finished her degree and has been working at the university till she finds that special job, arriving home one day there is a letter from the solicitor who handled her adoption all those years ago and Lou is not sure whether she wants to open it or not.
Lou visits the solicitor and finds out that she has been left a small cottage in the small town of Wagtail Ridge from her birth mother, the woman who never wanted to be in her life, she packs up and goes to see the cottage, what she finds is not only the cottage but a mobile library and a handwritten letter from Luca, her mother, this starts a journey to find out all about her mother.
She meets Jake, who has been caring for the house since Luca’s death and some of the lovely townsfolk who are all pressing for her to keep the mobile library going and with a task to find more letters Jake agrees to drive the truck and show Lou around and the more Lou learns that harder it is for her to turn her back on Wagtail Ridge and perhaps Jake as well.
So many emotions flow from the pages in this truly beautiful story, come along and meet the wonderful characters and Ollie the Labrador who plays a big part in the story, will Lou sell up and move back to the city or will she make her home in Wagtail Ridge and keep the mobile library going?
I do highly recommend this one, Janet Gover never disappoints.
My thanks to the publisher, Harlequin AU and Netgalley for my copy to read and review.
December 2, 2023
*https://mrsbbookreviews.wordpress.com
Janet Gover’s life growing up in outback Australia, along with her understanding of wide open rural spaces has put her in good stead to produce a small town local drama. The Library at Wagtail Ridge is a story of family, motherhood, sacrifice, community ties, heritage, secrets, mystery, drama and the power of libraries. A gentle tearjerker, Janet Gover has released a comforting novel that will appeal to all contemporary fiction readers.
Accomplished Australian rural romance author Janet Gover introduces her readers to Lou Taylor, a woman who is gifted a mobile library and a quaint country cottage. Wagtail Ridge is Lou’s new home and it is a place that Lou hopes to learn much more about her birth mother. With a cache of handwritten letters left for Lou by her late mother, Lou must embark on an emotional journey of self discovery to uncover her family roots. The local community of Wagtail Ridge are quick to embrace Lou and as this lost woman delves deeper into her mother’s past. When Lou crosses paths with a local man named Jake Barnes, his assistance in Lou’s family history project is very much welcomed. But Jake made a promise to Lou’s late mother and this may get in the way of their burgeoning relationship. As time passes, so does Lou’s understanding of what difficult decisions her mother had to make many years ago, which led to their separation. Will Lou give up her old life and settle in Wagtail Ridge, a place that holds a special significance to her late mother and new love?
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Janet Gover, I know you loved writing Lou’s story and her world provided some joy when our world was struggling. The Library at Wagtail Ridge is a beautiful book that is a passionate tribute to the libraries, librarians and mobile library operations. Keeping all this in mind, I was excited to immerse myself in the pages of this latest Janet Gover release. The Library at Wagtail Ridge was an earnest and utterly delightful read.
Family mystery and origin novels always draw me in and The Library at Wagtail Ridge was no exception. Janet Gover has composed a heartfelt journey through Lou’s search to find out more about her birth mother. The adoption back story was presented with understanding, knowledge, emotion and authenticity. I appreciated the placement of Luca’s letters in uncovering this vital layer of the narrative. The letter sequences were filled with moments of shock, happiness, sadness and hope. Gover should be very proud of this aspect of her novel.
The characters in The Library at Wagtail Ridge are very well placed and I found myself smiling when Lou graced the pages of this novel. Likewise, it was a pleasure to get to know Luca through her written correspondence and how she touched the various community members of Wagtail. Love interest Jake was a delight and I’m glad I was able to develop a connection with this essential male character as the story progressed. The community members of Wagtail are a wonderful bunch and I have my fingers crossed that we will meet them again soon.
My final stamp of approval must be awarded to the mobile library element of the story. For this eager reader and passionate lover of books, this component of the novel was utterly splendid. It is so important that we have access to and support small town libraries and mobile library services, to ensure that our country dwellers are provided with these essential services.
I loved the placement of the little Willy Wagtail on the cover too, it was a gorgeous touch. Thank you Janet Gover for taking me on a memorable trip to Wagtail Ridge, can I request a return visit?
*I wish to thank Harlequin Australia for providing me with a free copy of this book for review purposes.
Janet Gover’s life growing up in outback Australia, along with her understanding of wide open rural spaces has put her in good stead to produce a small town local drama. The Library at Wagtail Ridge is a story of family, motherhood, sacrifice, community ties, heritage, secrets, mystery, drama and the power of libraries. A gentle tearjerker, Janet Gover has released a comforting novel that will appeal to all contemporary fiction readers.
Accomplished Australian rural romance author Janet Gover introduces her readers to Lou Taylor, a woman who is gifted a mobile library and a quaint country cottage. Wagtail Ridge is Lou’s new home and it is a place that Lou hopes to learn much more about her birth mother. With a cache of handwritten letters left for Lou by her late mother, Lou must embark on an emotional journey of self discovery to uncover her family roots. The local community of Wagtail Ridge are quick to embrace Lou and as this lost woman delves deeper into her mother’s past. When Lou crosses paths with a local man named Jake Barnes, his assistance in Lou’s family history project is very much welcomed. But Jake made a promise to Lou’s late mother and this may get in the way of their burgeoning relationship. As time passes, so does Lou’s understanding of what difficult decisions her mother had to make many years ago, which led to their separation. Will Lou give up her old life and settle in Wagtail Ridge, a place that holds a special significance to her late mother and new love?
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REPORT THIS AD
Janet Gover, I know you loved writing Lou’s story and her world provided some joy when our world was struggling. The Library at Wagtail Ridge is a beautiful book that is a passionate tribute to the libraries, librarians and mobile library operations. Keeping all this in mind, I was excited to immerse myself in the pages of this latest Janet Gover release. The Library at Wagtail Ridge was an earnest and utterly delightful read.
Family mystery and origin novels always draw me in and The Library at Wagtail Ridge was no exception. Janet Gover has composed a heartfelt journey through Lou’s search to find out more about her birth mother. The adoption back story was presented with understanding, knowledge, emotion and authenticity. I appreciated the placement of Luca’s letters in uncovering this vital layer of the narrative. The letter sequences were filled with moments of shock, happiness, sadness and hope. Gover should be very proud of this aspect of her novel.
The characters in The Library at Wagtail Ridge are very well placed and I found myself smiling when Lou graced the pages of this novel. Likewise, it was a pleasure to get to know Luca through her written correspondence and how she touched the various community members of Wagtail. Love interest Jake was a delight and I’m glad I was able to develop a connection with this essential male character as the story progressed. The community members of Wagtail are a wonderful bunch and I have my fingers crossed that we will meet them again soon.
My final stamp of approval must be awarded to the mobile library element of the story. For this eager reader and passionate lover of books, this component of the novel was utterly splendid. It is so important that we have access to and support small town libraries and mobile library services, to ensure that our country dwellers are provided with these essential services.
I loved the placement of the little Willy Wagtail on the cover too, it was a gorgeous touch. Thank you Janet Gover for taking me on a memorable trip to Wagtail Ridge, can I request a return visit?
*I wish to thank Harlequin Australia for providing me with a free copy of this book for review purposes.
January 8, 2023
The Library at Wagtail Ridge is a heartwarming story of Lou as she seeks to discover more about her birth mother and ultimately, herself. She travels to Wagtail Ridge where she has been bequeathed a cottage and mobile library. Throughout her journey, Lou is often angry and frustrated until, through a series of letters, she begins to understand the actions her birth mother made. Along the way Lou develops relationships (romantic and otherwise) with the local community who wish to welcome and embrace her.
‘This was about who she was - and she really didn’t know the answer to that any more.’
All up this is a book with a number of themes, primarily one concerning the story of adoption. Through the anger Lou feels at the disruption to her life, she will learn to get all the facts about situations before jumping to any conclusions. The two main features in this read for me were twofold. Firstly, the mobile library. It was wonderful of Janet to shine the spotlight on these very remote communities and just how special and crucial such visits were.
‘Library day was obviously something of a social occasion for the people who didn’t get many chances to just chat … The library was more than just a place to find a book.’
Secondly, the nod given - through the various letters Lou received from her birth mother - of wonderful Australian classics - The Shiralee, Seven Little Australians, Picnic at Hanging Rock, My Brilliant Career - just to name a few. I love these books and they are a part of Australian literary culture.
‘Knowing I could spend my life in that room surrounded by literally thousands of books was a gift … Then I was given the mobile library to run. What a perfect combination: books and the open road.’
The Library at Wagtail Ridge is an easy read with a focus on the importance of community and finding a home where you belong. In essence it is a dedication to these small rural towns and the binding love of all things literary.
This review is based on a complimentary copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. The quoted material may have changed in the final release.
‘This was about who she was - and she really didn’t know the answer to that any more.’
All up this is a book with a number of themes, primarily one concerning the story of adoption. Through the anger Lou feels at the disruption to her life, she will learn to get all the facts about situations before jumping to any conclusions. The two main features in this read for me were twofold. Firstly, the mobile library. It was wonderful of Janet to shine the spotlight on these very remote communities and just how special and crucial such visits were.
‘Library day was obviously something of a social occasion for the people who didn’t get many chances to just chat … The library was more than just a place to find a book.’
Secondly, the nod given - through the various letters Lou received from her birth mother - of wonderful Australian classics - The Shiralee, Seven Little Australians, Picnic at Hanging Rock, My Brilliant Career - just to name a few. I love these books and they are a part of Australian literary culture.
‘Knowing I could spend my life in that room surrounded by literally thousands of books was a gift … Then I was given the mobile library to run. What a perfect combination: books and the open road.’
The Library at Wagtail Ridge is an easy read with a focus on the importance of community and finding a home where you belong. In essence it is a dedication to these small rural towns and the binding love of all things literary.
This review is based on a complimentary copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. The quoted material may have changed in the final release.
September 20, 2023
This is a wonderfully emotional story set mostly in the Australian outback. The heroine, Lou, has always known she’s adopted and has never felt the need to find out anything about her birth mother. However, when she receives a letter from the woman’s solicitors and a bequest, she sets off on a voyage of discovery. It leads her to the tiny town of Wagtail Ridge and a trail of letters left by her birth mother explaining the circumstances of her having to give Lou up. Despite her initial reluctance to have anything to do with the woman who she feels didn’t want her enough to keep her, she is slowly reeled in and finds that not all is as she imagined. I was enchanted by this story and the wonderful community spirit and camaraderie that exists in little outback towns like Wagtail Ridge. The descriptions are evocative and the reader feels as though they are there, following the heroine on her journey. It doesn’t hurt that she has the help of a man who isn’t just handsome and kind, but has an adorable puppy who is being trained to be a guide dog. This story stays with you long after the final page and I highly recommend it!
March 25, 2023
Lou Taylor's just finished university and is about to put her well earned degree to use when she receives word that her birth mother had passed. Upon meeting with the solicitor, Lou learns of the bequeathment given by her late mother, something that Lou quite can't grasp. Why would the woman who chose to give her up do such a thing?
Now the reluctant owner of a country cottage and a small mobile library, Lou heads to the Hunter Valley town of Wagtail Ridge. As soon as she steps out of the car, Luca's presence is felt everywhere, grating on her nerves. Still, the task of sorting out assets and placing the cottage on the market takes precedence and has to be done as quickly as possible.
Not an easy feat, when a trail of hand written letters from your unknown mum is out there. Before her death, Luca had planned this last gift of love down to the very last detail. All Lou needs to do is find the courage to actually track them down with the assistance from new friend Jake, his pup Ollie and communities full of book lovers. These touching letters detail the life of and the uneasy decisions made by a mother who only wanted the best for her child. Piece by piece, Lou finally gets to know her mum the way she intended, and the words bring a lot of comfort.
During her time in Wagtail Ridge, Lou also goes on a voyage of self discovery. In just a few weeks, she looks forward to hearing stories from locals about Luca and sheds all the repressed anger and resentment. She even starts to build a life and falls for Jake, unaware that he made one last promise to Luca that constantly plays on his conscience. There's no doubt the charming town has gotten under her skin, but is it enough for her to stay permanently?
What drew me in was the idea of a mobile library bringing the wonderful world of reading to those who may otherwise miss out. The Australian classics selected to use as letter hiding spots were well thought out to bring an extra element of tenderness to the story.
This was simply a splendid way to experience my first Janet Gover novel. It warmed my bookish heart and soul.
🌟🌟🌟🌟✨/5
Now the reluctant owner of a country cottage and a small mobile library, Lou heads to the Hunter Valley town of Wagtail Ridge. As soon as she steps out of the car, Luca's presence is felt everywhere, grating on her nerves. Still, the task of sorting out assets and placing the cottage on the market takes precedence and has to be done as quickly as possible.
Not an easy feat, when a trail of hand written letters from your unknown mum is out there. Before her death, Luca had planned this last gift of love down to the very last detail. All Lou needs to do is find the courage to actually track them down with the assistance from new friend Jake, his pup Ollie and communities full of book lovers. These touching letters detail the life of and the uneasy decisions made by a mother who only wanted the best for her child. Piece by piece, Lou finally gets to know her mum the way she intended, and the words bring a lot of comfort.
During her time in Wagtail Ridge, Lou also goes on a voyage of self discovery. In just a few weeks, she looks forward to hearing stories from locals about Luca and sheds all the repressed anger and resentment. She even starts to build a life and falls for Jake, unaware that he made one last promise to Luca that constantly plays on his conscience. There's no doubt the charming town has gotten under her skin, but is it enough for her to stay permanently?
What drew me in was the idea of a mobile library bringing the wonderful world of reading to those who may otherwise miss out. The Australian classics selected to use as letter hiding spots were well thought out to bring an extra element of tenderness to the story.
This was simply a splendid way to experience my first Janet Gover novel. It warmed my bookish heart and soul.
🌟🌟🌟🌟✨/5
December 15, 2022
What a great end of year read! This was my first Janet Gover and I have already bought more! Just a lovely style and characters with heart…I loved every page of Lou Taylor’s journey to understanding and acceptance! This novel is a love letter to the Australian classics, it really made me re-appreciate Ruth Park and I still haven’t read Picnic at Hanging Rock…it’s also completely a love letter to small rural towns and the communities that keep them going. A gorgeous guide dog puppy just added cuteness to the mix! Absolutely loved it, I absolutely want more Wagtail!
November 25, 2022
Thank you Harlequin for sending us a copy to read and review.
She was adopted but very secure with her parents and life.
Honesty and transparency the key, coupled with warmth and love to help her flourish into adulthood.
A letter from a solicitor will test her as she confronts the past and discovers her heritage.
Lou inherits her biological mothers house after she dies prematurely.
The house is a structure and possibly an economic windfall, no sentimental attached until she finds letters, a mobile library and a community who knew and loved her mother.
With support and encouragement from her parents she becomes anchored in the town and reignites the mobile library service that brings so much joy to remote people.
The more she learns about her mother the more curious she becomes of her biological father.
Clouding her judgements on those who are trying to help her.
A journey of self discovery, belonging and perseverance.
The love of books and reading, the benefits of a mobile library and life in a small town were all draw cards for me to this joyful read.
Labrador puppies in training adding extra element of cuteness.
All the feels and dramas of a good rural saga.
She was adopted but very secure with her parents and life.
Honesty and transparency the key, coupled with warmth and love to help her flourish into adulthood.
A letter from a solicitor will test her as she confronts the past and discovers her heritage.
Lou inherits her biological mothers house after she dies prematurely.
The house is a structure and possibly an economic windfall, no sentimental attached until she finds letters, a mobile library and a community who knew and loved her mother.
With support and encouragement from her parents she becomes anchored in the town and reignites the mobile library service that brings so much joy to remote people.
The more she learns about her mother the more curious she becomes of her biological father.
Clouding her judgements on those who are trying to help her.
A journey of self discovery, belonging and perseverance.
The love of books and reading, the benefits of a mobile library and life in a small town were all draw cards for me to this joyful read.
Labrador puppies in training adding extra element of cuteness.
All the feels and dramas of a good rural saga.
January 28, 2023
The Library at Wagtail Ridge by Janet Gover
❤️ Love of books
🌻 rural
❤️ Australia
🌻 heart warming
❤️ family
🌻 belonging
Really enjoyed this light but heart-warming novel. Thanks @harpercollinsaustralia , @harlequinaus for the gifted copy
❤️ Love of books
🌻 rural
❤️ Australia
🌻 heart warming
❤️ family
🌻 belonging
Really enjoyed this light but heart-warming novel. Thanks @harpercollinsaustralia , @harlequinaus for the gifted copy
July 14, 2023
Thank you Janet Cover. Wagtail Ridge was just what I needed this week. A fabulous community, well-developed characters and a story with all the feels.
July 25, 2023
Just gorgeous 😍
Loved everything about it.
Loved everything about it.
July 31, 2023
Another nice Australian story. I enjoyed the journey.
March 25, 2025
I listened to the audio version of this book and DNF. I honestly wanted to like this book. I have listened to several other similar audiobooks by authors like Rachael Johns, Josephine Moon, Jennifer Scoullar, Kelly Hunter… so it’s not that I don’t enjoy the genre!
The premise of the story is intriguing and the idea of a mobile library visiting rural Australian towns is delightful… it’s set up well… But:
The main character (I’ve already forgotten her name…)Lou! is strangely one dimensional. She works at uni and we first meet her riding her bike home by the river (this made me like her at first, however:) - this is the first of MANY times we learn that she “loves the bush/outdoors/wide open spaces” - this seems to be the main facet of her personality and it’s mentioned at every possible place. Despite this, there’s very little description of the natural environments that Lou experiences, which feels like a missed opportunity and also kind of weird given how much she LOVES it. Lou also has no friends, that are ever mentioned in the story. She lives with her (adoptive) parents and it’s deeply important to her that they know HOW MUCH SHE FREAKIN LOVES THEM and does not care about her adoptive mother who gave her away. It felt weird that a young woman in her early twenties in this type of book was so isolated despite having just finished uni and still working there. The no friends thing adds to the slight dislike-ability of Lou as a character.
Also her relationship with Jake. They have met like three times and she’s kind of a rude hussy to him most of those times but they also really really dig each other? I dunno, Lou. Yes his dog is really great. Olly is actually a more interesting character than Lou, I venture. He has more varied emotions than just lusting after Jake and being angry about her biological mother.
Other people have really enjoyed this book but the audio version didn’t do it for me. I do want to know what happened at the end but maybe I can read a hard copy and skim the slow moving bits.
The premise of the story is intriguing and the idea of a mobile library visiting rural Australian towns is delightful… it’s set up well… But:
The main character (I’ve already forgotten her name…)Lou! is strangely one dimensional. She works at uni and we first meet her riding her bike home by the river (this made me like her at first, however:) - this is the first of MANY times we learn that she “loves the bush/outdoors/wide open spaces” - this seems to be the main facet of her personality and it’s mentioned at every possible place. Despite this, there’s very little description of the natural environments that Lou experiences, which feels like a missed opportunity and also kind of weird given how much she LOVES it. Lou also has no friends, that are ever mentioned in the story. She lives with her (adoptive) parents and it’s deeply important to her that they know HOW MUCH SHE FREAKIN LOVES THEM and does not care about her adoptive mother who gave her away. It felt weird that a young woman in her early twenties in this type of book was so isolated despite having just finished uni and still working there. The no friends thing adds to the slight dislike-ability of Lou as a character.
Also her relationship with Jake. They have met like three times and she’s kind of a rude hussy to him most of those times but they also really really dig each other? I dunno, Lou. Yes his dog is really great. Olly is actually a more interesting character than Lou, I venture. He has more varied emotions than just lusting after Jake and being angry about her biological mother.
Other people have really enjoyed this book but the audio version didn’t do it for me. I do want to know what happened at the end but maybe I can read a hard copy and skim the slow moving bits.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 3, 2023
I love books that have booky/library elements in them, so The Library at Wagtail Ridge was my kind of read! I also enjoyed Lou as a character. She was adopted as a child, then suddenly received a legacy from her birth mother - who she really doesn't want to have anything to do with or know about. She's had a lovely childhood with really nice parents who've loved and nurtured her. They were willing for Lou's birth mother to be in touch along the way, but the birth mother cut off contact from the time of the adoption. Now she's reaching out to Lou from beyond the grave, with the legacy of a mobile library and cottage in Wagtail Ridge.
It takes Lou a while - and a couple of visits - and encouragement from the friendly locals, including a very nice man called Jake - before she can begin to cope with the emotional overload of all this. At first she doesn't want to, feeling it would be a betrayal of her adoptive parents who have been wonderful. But their gentle encouragement and that of the whole country town and surrounding villages who all knew her birth mother finally make her a bit braver to follow the trail of letters left behind for her to read. Maybe, just maybe, there is a place for her in Wagtail Ridge? And some closure for her feelings about her birth mother?
I loved the mobile library and the discussions about books, including a lot of Australian children's classics. Isn't it wonderful how books bring us together?
A very heartwarming and lovely story as Lou comes to grip with her past, with a bonus romance. Loved it.
Thanks to Beauty & Lace and HQ Fiction for this charming review copy. Truly enjoyed it.
It takes Lou a while - and a couple of visits - and encouragement from the friendly locals, including a very nice man called Jake - before she can begin to cope with the emotional overload of all this. At first she doesn't want to, feeling it would be a betrayal of her adoptive parents who have been wonderful. But their gentle encouragement and that of the whole country town and surrounding villages who all knew her birth mother finally make her a bit braver to follow the trail of letters left behind for her to read. Maybe, just maybe, there is a place for her in Wagtail Ridge? And some closure for her feelings about her birth mother?
I loved the mobile library and the discussions about books, including a lot of Australian children's classics. Isn't it wonderful how books bring us together?
A very heartwarming and lovely story as Lou comes to grip with her past, with a bonus romance. Loved it.
Thanks to Beauty & Lace and HQ Fiction for this charming review copy. Truly enjoyed it.
October 22, 2022
This is a good read that takes you on a journey through the life of Lou Taylor, adopted at a very young age and not remembering her birth mother, she lived a happy and loving life with her adoptive family. Then her world is turned upside down with the news of an inheritance from her birth mum and so the story begins.
This is a wonderful story that makes you think, makes you emotional and makes you laugh and cry. The story is so real and really does make you feel as if you shouldn't jump to conclusions and should always hear both sides of a story as there are always two sides.
It is well written, the characters are people you feel could be your friends and family, the library aspect is great and there was one or two twists. It is definitely a book worth reading, it is very easy to read and makes you think of how communities become family and how we miss out on that so much in this day and age.
A wonderful, entertaining and heartfelt read. I highly recommend it.
The Library at Wagtail Ridge
Janet Gover
Harlequin Australia
This is a wonderful story that makes you think, makes you emotional and makes you laugh and cry. The story is so real and really does make you feel as if you shouldn't jump to conclusions and should always hear both sides of a story as there are always two sides.
It is well written, the characters are people you feel could be your friends and family, the library aspect is great and there was one or two twists. It is definitely a book worth reading, it is very easy to read and makes you think of how communities become family and how we miss out on that so much in this day and age.
A wonderful, entertaining and heartfelt read. I highly recommend it.
The Library at Wagtail Ridge
Janet Gover
Harlequin Australia
April 21, 2023
An unexpected and unusual inheritance sets a young woman on the road to discover her mother's deepest secret.
When Lou Taylor inherits a quaint country cottage and a mobile library full of books from her birth mother, she heads to the small town of Wagtail Ridge to learn more about the woman she never knew. Curiously, the last piece of the bequest is a handwritten letter, the first of many Luca left scattered along the library's route in hopes of finally sharing her secrets with the daughter she had to give up. As the kilometres fly by, Lou gradually untangles who her mother was and what lay behind the choices she made. At the same time, she finds herself drawing ever closer to kind, handsome Jake.
I loved this story from the start. It unravels like a treasure hunt, but for information about Lou’s mother - each clue unlocking more about her. The story is heartbreaking in parts, comical in others but the heart of it all is love. It is about the love a mother had for her daughter and a love that develops for mother that she never knew. The story unwraps around a mobile library truck and how much it means to small local towns around the area. At each stop Lou learns more and more about her mum, Luca.
This is such a beautiful read 💞and will be a favorite of mine. You will fall in love with the beautiful township of Wagtail Ridge and the people that call it home. Highly recommended 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
When Lou Taylor inherits a quaint country cottage and a mobile library full of books from her birth mother, she heads to the small town of Wagtail Ridge to learn more about the woman she never knew. Curiously, the last piece of the bequest is a handwritten letter, the first of many Luca left scattered along the library's route in hopes of finally sharing her secrets with the daughter she had to give up. As the kilometres fly by, Lou gradually untangles who her mother was and what lay behind the choices she made. At the same time, she finds herself drawing ever closer to kind, handsome Jake.
I loved this story from the start. It unravels like a treasure hunt, but for information about Lou’s mother - each clue unlocking more about her. The story is heartbreaking in parts, comical in others but the heart of it all is love. It is about the love a mother had for her daughter and a love that develops for mother that she never knew. The story unwraps around a mobile library truck and how much it means to small local towns around the area. At each stop Lou learns more and more about her mum, Luca.
This is such a beautiful read 💞and will be a favorite of mine. You will fall in love with the beautiful township of Wagtail Ridge and the people that call it home. Highly recommended 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
May 21, 2024
A feel-good story with charming characters.
An unexpected and unusual inheritance sets a young woman on the road to discover her mother's deepest secret. A charming and heartfelt rural romance perfect for readers of Rachael Johns and Karly Lane. When Lou Taylor inherits a quaint country cottage and a mobile library full of books from her birth mother, she heads to the small town of Wagtail Ridge to learn more about the woman she never knew. Curiously, the last piece of the bequest is a handwritten letter, the first of many Luca left scattered along the library's route in hopes of finally sharing her secrets with the daughter she had to give up. The townspeople of Wagtail Ridge flock around Lou, wanting to share the stories of Luca's life, but she knows she must learn about her birth mother in the way Luca intended. Jake Barnes, her new neighbour, offers to help her follow the trail, but weighing on his conscience is a promise he made to Luca - a secret that now stands between him and the woman who's slowly capturing his heart... As the kilometres fly by, Lou gradually untangles who her mother was and what lay behind the choices she made. At the same time, she finds herself drawing ever closer to kind, handsome Jake. But will it all be enough to keep her in Wagtail Ridge when she has another happy life waiting for her in the city?
An unexpected and unusual inheritance sets a young woman on the road to discover her mother's deepest secret. A charming and heartfelt rural romance perfect for readers of Rachael Johns and Karly Lane. When Lou Taylor inherits a quaint country cottage and a mobile library full of books from her birth mother, she heads to the small town of Wagtail Ridge to learn more about the woman she never knew. Curiously, the last piece of the bequest is a handwritten letter, the first of many Luca left scattered along the library's route in hopes of finally sharing her secrets with the daughter she had to give up. The townspeople of Wagtail Ridge flock around Lou, wanting to share the stories of Luca's life, but she knows she must learn about her birth mother in the way Luca intended. Jake Barnes, her new neighbour, offers to help her follow the trail, but weighing on his conscience is a promise he made to Luca - a secret that now stands between him and the woman who's slowly capturing his heart... As the kilometres fly by, Lou gradually untangles who her mother was and what lay behind the choices she made. At the same time, she finds herself drawing ever closer to kind, handsome Jake. But will it all be enough to keep her in Wagtail Ridge when she has another happy life waiting for her in the city?
October 19, 2022
Lou was happy living in Sydney with the adopted parents. She rarely gave a thought to the birth mother who gave her up. Until her mother, Luca, dies and leaves Lou an unusual inheritance. A small cottage in the rural village of Wagtail Ridge and a mobile library.
Luca also left her friends, particularly handsome and kind Jake, instructions. A set of letters which force Lou to take the library out to the rural towns and villages. As Lou learns more about the library and the people it serves, she also learns about who she is.
Jake is lovely. Kind to a fault and torn between keeping his promise to his dying friend and doing the right thing by Lou, who is his new friend.
There's also a dog in it and no one dies. Both of which are Good Things as far as I'm concerned.
As always, the background characters are tremendous fun. Because the story centres around a library there's a lot of discussion about books - most of which are Australian classics, so were unfamiliar to me, but I don't mind that. Discovering new books is always good.
I might have cried a little at the end.
I hope there are more Wagtail Ridge books.
I read an ARC of this book. This is my honest review.
Luca also left her friends, particularly handsome and kind Jake, instructions. A set of letters which force Lou to take the library out to the rural towns and villages. As Lou learns more about the library and the people it serves, she also learns about who she is.
Jake is lovely. Kind to a fault and torn between keeping his promise to his dying friend and doing the right thing by Lou, who is his new friend.
There's also a dog in it and no one dies. Both of which are Good Things as far as I'm concerned.
As always, the background characters are tremendous fun. Because the story centres around a library there's a lot of discussion about books - most of which are Australian classics, so were unfamiliar to me, but I don't mind that. Discovering new books is always good.
I might have cried a little at the end.
I hope there are more Wagtail Ridge books.
I read an ARC of this book. This is my honest review.
March 7, 2023
Lou Tayor lives in Sydney with her adoptive parents Fiona and Richard. Lou knew she was adopted at the age of two. She recieves a call from a solitor informing her of birth mother passing and she has inherited a house with a book library truck. So Lou sets off to Wigtail Ridge where she meets Jake her neigbour that has been looking after the cootage.
Lou found herself wanting to just sell the cottage and book library until she discovers things about her mother and the town's people.
Jake cared for Luca - Lou's mum on her death bed she made him promise that he would with making sure Lou would find the letters she left for her by doing the book library run with her. He trains Guide dogs he had Ollie who had taking a liking to Lou.
With each letter's arrvial at the end of each of the locations has Lous feeling emotions that she thought she would never feel about her mother that gave her up for adoption all the years. Not only loving the people her mum hlp giving the love of reading but all she found her self fall for Jake.
A beautiful well written story I throughly enjod this book worthwhile read.
Lou found herself wanting to just sell the cottage and book library until she discovers things about her mother and the town's people.
Jake cared for Luca - Lou's mum on her death bed she made him promise that he would with making sure Lou would find the letters she left for her by doing the book library run with her. He trains Guide dogs he had Ollie who had taking a liking to Lou.
With each letter's arrvial at the end of each of the locations has Lous feeling emotions that she thought she would never feel about her mother that gave her up for adoption all the years. Not only loving the people her mum hlp giving the love of reading but all she found her self fall for Jake.
A beautiful well written story I throughly enjod this book worthwhile read.
June 29, 2024
4.5 stars
Thank you to @harlequinaus for sending me a copy of this book to review!
Lou has always known she was adopted, however when she unexpectedly inherits a cottage in the country and a mobile library full of books from the birth mother she never knew, she sets off to the small town of Wagtail Ridge to discover a bit about her birth mother and sell the cottage.
Lou’s birth mother had her own ideas though which included her daughter learning about her life in a rather unconventional way.
After a few recent difficult and unsatisfying reads, this was an easy and quite delightful read. Although I’m not one for romance stories (like, at all!), I’m usually down for the occasional rural romance as I love the country settings and they usually come with an interesting country-inspired side story. This one was no exception and in fact I would say the family/adoption mystery was the biggest part of the story and the romance was a side story. So no complaints about that from me!
I found the story moving and heartwarming and I loved the mobile library ventures off into other small towns. What bookworm doesn’t love a story that involves books! Very enjoyable! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5/5
Thank you to @harlequinaus for sending me a copy of this book to review!
Lou has always known she was adopted, however when she unexpectedly inherits a cottage in the country and a mobile library full of books from the birth mother she never knew, she sets off to the small town of Wagtail Ridge to discover a bit about her birth mother and sell the cottage.
Lou’s birth mother had her own ideas though which included her daughter learning about her life in a rather unconventional way.
After a few recent difficult and unsatisfying reads, this was an easy and quite delightful read. Although I’m not one for romance stories (like, at all!), I’m usually down for the occasional rural romance as I love the country settings and they usually come with an interesting country-inspired side story. This one was no exception and in fact I would say the family/adoption mystery was the biggest part of the story and the romance was a side story. So no complaints about that from me!
I found the story moving and heartwarming and I loved the mobile library ventures off into other small towns. What bookworm doesn’t love a story that involves books! Very enjoyable! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5/5
February 16, 2023
She had finished her course, all set for a travelling adventure, to start her life, with the support of a good family, and then came the letter. Lou always knew she was adopted, she was good with this, but to find out her birth mum had passed and had left to her all that she had was confronting and unexpected. But she will go, she will see what is there, just to get the boxes ticked and get the property left to her on the market so she can get back to her life. But no, not that simple.
Jack made a promise to Luca, Lou's birth mum, to help Lou find out about her, to grow a love of the region (country town Aust), to learn about the people and most importantly about the mobile library that saved Luca's life when her mum passed.
Falling in love was not part of the plan, for either of them, nor was the doubt that what each of them had planned and were doing was the right thing. Will she stay, will Jack tell her the truth?
A warming story of country support, passion and connection. Thank you Beauty & Lace for the opportunity to read and Janet Gover for a good escape from life.
Jack made a promise to Luca, Lou's birth mum, to help Lou find out about her, to grow a love of the region (country town Aust), to learn about the people and most importantly about the mobile library that saved Luca's life when her mum passed.
Falling in love was not part of the plan, for either of them, nor was the doubt that what each of them had planned and were doing was the right thing. Will she stay, will Jack tell her the truth?
A warming story of country support, passion and connection. Thank you Beauty & Lace for the opportunity to read and Janet Gover for a good escape from life.
July 11, 2025
A very pleasant, easy read. I love the Wagtail Ridge Mobile Library & it's peregrinations around all those tiny towns in the Hunter Region, it's such a lovely way to keep the communities connected, as is the fundraising to keep it operational. I would have liked more travels in the library.
Lou Taylor is a nice enough girl, she did come across as closer to 13 than 23 on occasion which was irritating, but I can understand how frustrating it might have been for her to get Luca's story in dribs and drabs, & to feel she was being manipulated by all around her, so she coped fairly well, on the whole. Luke Barnes is a lovely character, a kind & helpful man even before he fancied Lou, & very handy to have around.
I've read both the "Wagtail Ridge" books now & have found them to be engaging visions of people struggling to keep their small rural communities alive by pooling resources & welcoming newcomers with open arms. The characters are likeable & believable, if a little rose-tinted, but I rather like the optimism.
Lou Taylor is a nice enough girl, she did come across as closer to 13 than 23 on occasion which was irritating, but I can understand how frustrating it might have been for her to get Luca's story in dribs and drabs, & to feel she was being manipulated by all around her, so she coped fairly well, on the whole. Luke Barnes is a lovely character, a kind & helpful man even before he fancied Lou, & very handy to have around.
I've read both the "Wagtail Ridge" books now & have found them to be engaging visions of people struggling to keep their small rural communities alive by pooling resources & welcoming newcomers with open arms. The characters are likeable & believable, if a little rose-tinted, but I rather like the optimism.
November 21, 2022
Lou Taylor has always known that she was adopted but it was never important as her parents were loving and supportive.
She has just received news of an inheritance of a cottage from her birth mother at Wagtail Ridge and she travels there with the idea to sell the cottage but upon arrival finds a littlemore is expected of her.
I enjoyed this book, it was a very easy read but it seems I’m in the minority as I didn’t love it. In fact at times I feel Lou was totally manipulated by her birth mother Luca. It was as if Lou could only find out details of Luca’s life on Luca’s terms, which were in the form of letters she had written to Lou via the mobile library patrons and friends.
Maybe this book was a little ‘too sweet’ for me, many have loved it and I have read some previous books by the author which I have really enjoyed. This one just didn’t click enough.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for a copy to read
She has just received news of an inheritance of a cottage from her birth mother at Wagtail Ridge and she travels there with the idea to sell the cottage but upon arrival finds a littlemore is expected of her.
I enjoyed this book, it was a very easy read but it seems I’m in the minority as I didn’t love it. In fact at times I feel Lou was totally manipulated by her birth mother Luca. It was as if Lou could only find out details of Luca’s life on Luca’s terms, which were in the form of letters she had written to Lou via the mobile library patrons and friends.
Maybe this book was a little ‘too sweet’ for me, many have loved it and I have read some previous books by the author which I have really enjoyed. This one just didn’t click enough.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for a copy to read
October 6, 2022
Growing up Sydney girl Lou Taylor knew she was adopted but never had the desire to learn more about her birth parents. That changes when she receives a solicitors letter after the passing of her birth mother. She journeys to Wagtail Ridge to accept her inheritance with the thought of selling up and heading straight back to the city. But after discovering a handwritten letter from her birth mother Luca she is set on a path of discovery which requires the help of local neighbour Jake.
The emotional journey in this book is a bitter-sweet one. I like the way the author shared the importance of mobile libraries in remote/rural areas. It also reminded me of my own visits to a mobile library in my small hometown. The story was easy to follow and enjoyable to read.
Thank you to NetGallery for the copy to read and review.
The emotional journey in this book is a bitter-sweet one. I like the way the author shared the importance of mobile libraries in remote/rural areas. It also reminded me of my own visits to a mobile library in my small hometown. The story was easy to follow and enjoyable to read.
Thank you to NetGallery for the copy to read and review.
May 7, 2023
Lou Taylor was adopted when she was young. Her adoptive parents were really good to her and treated her as their own.
Out of the blue a letter arrives for Lou from a Solicitor stating her birth mother had passed away, and she has inherited a country cottage and a mobile library located in the town of Wagtail Ridge. Lou heads to the town as she plans to sell the cottage and library and move on with her life, but her birth mother has other plans. There is one letter left in the library, and more letters left along the library route for Lou to find.
With the help of her mother's friend and neighbour, Jake Barnes who has to help by driving the mobile library, Lou starts her investigation into why her mother gave her up and also the mystery of who her father is.
An interesting read about finding out information about your past and what to do with your future.
Out of the blue a letter arrives for Lou from a Solicitor stating her birth mother had passed away, and she has inherited a country cottage and a mobile library located in the town of Wagtail Ridge. Lou heads to the town as she plans to sell the cottage and library and move on with her life, but her birth mother has other plans. There is one letter left in the library, and more letters left along the library route for Lou to find.
With the help of her mother's friend and neighbour, Jake Barnes who has to help by driving the mobile library, Lou starts her investigation into why her mother gave her up and also the mystery of who her father is.
An interesting read about finding out information about your past and what to do with your future.
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