Title: A Garland at Bitterbark Creek
Author: Tammy Mannersly
Genre: Rural Romance
Book Blurb:
He’s found a new home with her family while his own holds secrets to her past…This heart-wrenching 300+ page rural romance novel will have you gasping and keep you guessing as mysteries unravel, and as Jack and Sophie discover whether their love for one another can survive the deepest of wounds and darkest of betrayals.
Had it not been for her cousin’s wedding, Sophie Wendall would never have returned to Bitterbark Creek—her aunt and uncle’s idyllic farm-stay on the outskirts of town. Twenty years ago, tragedy stole everything from her including her memory, leaving only secrets and lies. Now that she’s back, there are just two things on her mind: to find out the truth of what really happened to her that day at the dam and to steer clear of the wicked Garland family and their charismatic son—the boy who broke her heart.
Jackson Garland is one of the few people who know what really happened to Sophie all those years ago, but he’s terrified of sharing the truth. To do so would jeopardize his happy sanctuary and newfound home at Bitterbark Creek. Upon reconnecting with Sophie, he realizes that while her extended family may have accepted him as one of their own, she’s going to take a little more convincing. Although he tries to charm and distract her to keep his secrets safe, it isn’t long before he’s at risk of falling under her own tantalizing spell.
As children, their love for one another kept them close until a car accident took one life and hatred tried to steal another. But dark truths can’t be hidden forever when ghosts from the past step into the light. Might the revelations be too daunting for them to handle? Or will Jack and Sophie finally put aside their family history and let love guide them into a future together?
A GARLAND AT BITTERBARK CREEK is about heartbreaking loss, rediscovering love and the healing ability of forgiveness and acceptance. If you love reading the novels of Mandy Magro, Alissa Callen, and Rachael Johns, then you will adore this heartfelt, second chance love story by award-winning author, Tammy Mannersly.
My Review:
Tammy Mannersly has written a compelling small-town romance bursting with intrigue and deception.
Sophie is returning home after twenty years for a family wedding. But while she’s home, she’s determined to discover the truth about the incident at the dam that stole her memory and sparked unkind gossip about her. And caused her to lose faith in the boy she thought she loved, Jackson.
Jackson knows exactly what happened that day. But he fears if he reveals the truth, not only will he lose Sophie forever, but Sophie’s extended family, who have taken in and treated him like family.
Jack’s mother and sister have held the town hostage for decades. As the owner of the local granary, they’re not only the social elite, they’re the major employer. And they do as they please, including ostracizing Sophie and her family.
The chemistry between Sophie and Jack ignite the pages starting with their first encounter. Despite the attraction, Sophie isn’t sure she can trust Jack. That’s why regaining her memory at the dam that day is so important.
As Sophie asks questions, she discovers the layers of deception the Garland family has placed over every aspect of the town’s life.
The writing sucked me in from the very beginning. I read not only because I wanted a happily ever after for the Sophie and Jack, but because I felt as if I had to find out what happened the day as much as Sophie did. I also needed to know what, if anything, would happen to the Garland mother and daughter. I was absorbed in the storyline.
The story is well thought out, the pacing of the plot is perfect. And just when I thought it couldn’t get any better, the plot twist knocked me for a loop. I hadn’t seen it coming, but it was truly satisfying.
In fact, everything about this book is truly satisfying. Set in the ruggedly beautiful countryside of Australia, A Garland at Bitterbark Creek is more than a romance. It’s also a story about family and forgiveness, past transgressions, and revenge. I highly recommend it.
My Rating: 5 stars
Buy it Now:
Author Biography:
Tammy Mannersly is an award-winning Australian author frequently praised for her heart-warming stories full of romance, dedicated friendships, and stunning Australian locations. All her books ensure a great Happily Ever After and a love story that will sweep you off your feet. Tammy has a Bachelor Degree in Creative Industries majoring in Creative Writing from Queensland University of Technology. She lives on the coast near Brisbane, Queensland and loves to write about her favorite Australian destinations.
You can find more information about Tammy and her work on her website: www.tammymannersly.com or by visiting:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/tammymannersly
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tammymannersly/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TammyMannersly
Inkspell Publishing: http://www.inkspellpublishing.com/tammy-mannersly.html
Reviewed by: Terry