(I received a free copy of this book from Net Galley in exchange for an honest review.)

When Calla Maloney steps on the boat to Kangaroo Island, she’s filled with dread. Part of it is simple seasickness but the other part is pure trepidation. She’s not on a holiday but a mission: to track down her estranged brother, who she hasn’t seen since her family splintered two years before.
Firefighter Sam Hunter left the island twenty years ago and has made a habit out of staying as far away as he can get. But when his father’s illness forces him home, he finds himself playing bad cop to his dad and reluctant tour guide to a redhead with no sense of direction.
As Sam and Calla dig deeper into their long-buried family secrets, they discover that no one is an island and that opening up their hearts to love again might be the most dangerous thing they will ever do.

*4.5 stars*

From the descriptions of Kangaroo Island to the complex nature of family relationships, this book is far more than just another "rural romance" novel.

There is one thing that really makes Victoria Purman stand out in the ever-growing ranks of Australian writers is her attention to detail, especially when describing the environment in which the story takes place. Even to most Australians, Kangaroo Island is a bit of an unknown - so to get such a brilliant picture of the location all the way through made getting involved in this story all the more easy. (The end of that sentence doesn't make sense but, well, I know what it means!)

And speaking of the story, let's talk about that. As I said at the start, this is more than just your run-of-the-mill romance novel. Through different characters in the story, Purman is able to shine a light on issues such as family tragedy and dementia, as well as really focusing on the nature of relationships - commitment, emotions, trust etc. There is the usual to-ing and fro-ing between Sam and Calla as they play the "will they, won't they?" game. That was about the only thing that weakened my opinion of the book...

As for the MC's - they were both so identifiable. I am sure all of us can identify with one of the aspects of their characters. We have all been through some tragedy or disappointment in our lives. There are flaws in both Calla and Sam, and the author uses those "weaknesses" to connect with her readers. I really did like Sam. I identified with his feelings of never returning "home" and could sense his discomfort for quite a bit of the story.

All in all, this is one of the best Australian novels I have read for some time. Do yourself a favour and give this one a go. You won't regret it!


Paul
ARH