Book Review: From the Outback
Media Type: Ebook
Title: From the Outback
Author: Ann B. Harrison
Publisher: Self-published
Pages: Kindle; 168
Release Date: October 19, 2013
Source: Author
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Genre: Contemporary Romance
HDB Rating: 3 Keys to My Heart
Recommended to: Fans of strong characters and sweet romance stories.
Although desperate to get out of her dead end job, Sami is cynical when she hears of an inheritance from the grandfather she never knew. But once she and her young brother arrive in the beautiful valley, she discovers they are not wanted…especially by the sexy vineyard owner next door.
Will she persevere and make a home for them, or give in and take the easy money when the going gets tough?
Consider me impressed. Although From the Outback didn’t click with me on all levels, I have to say that it was a very relaxing and enjoyable read. There’s something about the backdrop it’s set against, something about the sweeping farmlands and vineyards, that is just so easy to get lost in. I’ve never been to Sami’s homeland, but I definitely have wanderlust now!
The truth is that I’m a very character driven reader. I have to feel connected to the people I read about on the page. Sami was tough to love. I admired her tenacity and strength, but it was covered with so much bitterness that it was tough to swallow. Although Sami definitely has reason to feel the way she does, I couldn’t always forgive her for her abrasive nature. In fact, I almost wondered why Mason fell for her in the first place. My own opinion, I know. Others will love her I’m sure.
I did, however, fall in love with all the other characters in this book. Mason, Garth and Tibby are all wonderful. They are the yin to Sami’s yang. The positivity when she can’t be anything else but negative. Mason is a rather swoon-worthy male lead, I’ll tell you that. Garth is a sweet, intelligent younger brother. Even Tibby has his own wonderful sense of humor that makes you wish you could spend some time with him. Despite not loving Sami, I was still able to enjoy reading along with the rest of the characters.
I did feel like the plot was a bit slow moving at times but, when things did happen, it all felt so real. Kudos to Ann B. Harrison for her ability to write, what felt to me, like real life. Real people, real problems, and even a realistic romance complete with ups and downs. Again, despite any issues I may have, I did genuinely enjoy the read. I have a feeling that fans of strong characters and sweet romance will enjoy From the Outback.
FTC Disclosure: I received a copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. I was not monetarily compensated for my opinion.
