Stella Quinn

An enjoyable Australian rural romance set in the fictional town of Hanrahan at the foothills of the Snowy Mountains. Journalist Vera De Rossi leaves the city to escape from a failed relationship, the loss of her career and finances and a pending court case that could land her in jail. She sets up the Billy Button Café, using her culinary skills to provide for her beloved Aunt Jill’s medical bills and care. She is definitely not in the market for another relationship after her last disaster. She meets a cast of small town characters like the vivacious, aging yoga instructor Marigold, gregarious Graeme who enthusiastically steps up to manage her café, hot local vet Josh Cody and his stroppy but smart gothic daughter Poppy. A feel-good rural read featuring small town gossip but also community spirit and support. It also tackles the issue of neglect in nursing homes. Best of all I enjoyed stray Labrador Jane Doe and her 8 pups. A pleasant escapist read. 4.5 stars. This book was bought for me as a birthday present by my lovely son who knows his Mum likes a good Aussie read.… (more)