Outback Blaze by Rachael Johns

Title: Outback Blaze
Author: Rachael Johns
ISBN: 9781743565353
Publisher: Harlequin MIRA
Publish Date: May 2014

Synopsis:

Ruby wasn't looking for love, Drew wasn't looking to stay...until they found each other. Can their fling survive the darkness of Ruby's past and Drew's desire to move on?

Ruby Jones was always an optimist, but the trauma of her past had made her wary. So when she flees to the small rural community of Bunyip Bay to start afresh, she has her sights firmly set on establishing her horse-riding business and rebuilding her life. The last thing Ruby wants is a romance. In fact, after all she has been through, she can't imagine she will ever believe in love again.

Police officer Drew Noble has no intention of staying in Bunyip Bay — he is just an outsider seeking temporary refuge. But as the charm of the town sways him, Drew finds himself increasingly drawn to the community and its inhabitants, as well as another newcomer, the lovely Ruby Jones.

When Drew investigates a suspicious fire at Ruby's parents' business, he finds himself feeling strangely protective of the girl with the flowers in her hair. As the details of Ruby's past emerge and she comes once more under threat, Drew realises he will do all in his power to save her.


Soon these outsiders discover they have both lost their hearts — not only to the town but to each other.

My Thoughts:

The fact that I loved this book will come as no surprise. Rachael Johns has fast become one of my favourite Australian authors and her books have introduced me to rural romance, a genre that I didn't normally read, now I can't get enough of them!

In Outback Blaze we return to the lovely community of Bunyip Bay to find out Ruby's story. Ruby has returned home to pick up the pieces after a failed relationship and get her life back on track, but a whole new set of problem occurs when her parent's business is destroyed in a suspicious fire. Tensions and gossip flare up in the wake of the tragic fire and police officer, Drew Noble is determined to find out the truth behind the fire, what he isn't prepared for are his feelings for Ruby.

Outback Blaze is more than your typical rural romance, the mystery/suspense element makes this book a genuine page turner. I loved the relationship between Ruby and Drew, it was not rushed and was realistic.
Outback Blaze was a great read, definitely my favourite Rachael Johns book so far, her books just seem to be getting better and better. I am now eagerly awaiting the release of her next book, Outback Ghost!

Just a final word of warning, if you are a bit of a softie like me, you may need some tissues while reading this book!

Thanks to Harlequin Australia for the ARC.

Australian Women Writers Challenge 2014

So I have decided to sign up or the Australian Women Writers Challenge 2014. Admittedly I am not very good when it comes to challenges but I told myself that in 2014 I would join some and try my best to complete them so here I am signing up for my first challenge of 2014.

Here is some information about the challenge (for more info please go here.)

What is it?

The 2014 Australian Women Writers Challenge was set up to help overcome gender bias in the reviewing of books by Australian women. The challenge encourages avid readers and book bloggers, male and female, Australian and non-Australian, to read and review books by Australian women throughout the year. You don’t have to be a writer to sign up. You can choose to read and review, or read only.

Choose your level:

Stella: read 4 – if reviewing, review at least 3
Miles: read 6 – if reviewing, review at least 4
Franklin: read 10 – if reviewing, review at least 6
Create your own challenge: nominate your own goal

I am choosing Miles, which I think will be a level that will be achievable for me.
If you would like to join in the fun you can sign up here.