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Bunyip Bay #2
Outback Blaze
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.
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.
367 pages, Paperback
First published May 1, 2014
70 people are currently reading
794 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 129 reviews
March 26, 2019
Ruby Jones was looking for a fresh start after leaving her husband, so she decides to go and be with her parents where she could help out with the day to day running of their agriculture store. Ruby is hoping to begin a new life and she has her heart set on setting up her own horse riding lessons for the local children.
But when things were looking up for Ruby is shocked and devastated to hear about the fire that has destroyed her parents business. And so to make matters worse, it looks like there is more to the fire than first thought. Drew Noble the local police officer is on the case, but will he find the answers he’s looking for before it’s too late?
Outback Blaze is the second book in the Bunyip Bay series and what a great series it is shaping up to be. With a combination of romance and suspense this book will keep you guessing right to the end. Once again Aussie author Rachael Johns has delivered another enjoyable read which I have no hesitation in highly recommending.
July 11, 2016
Ruby Jones was wounded and coming home to Bunyip Bay; back to her parents and the home she’d always known was a balm to her shattered heart. Her parents, Lyn and Robert, ran the Bunyip Bay Ag store so Ruby helped out there, as well as set up riding lessons for the local children on her beloved horses Roxie and Riley. When she decided to get involved with the organisation of the annual Bunyip Bay Undies Run with her new friends Simone and Frankie, she welcomed the social aspect of the fundraiser.
Police constable Drew Noble had only been in Bunyip Bay for a couple of months and was finding the country friendship and hospitality a big difference from his home in England. He wasn’t sure he could get used to stopping and chatting to everyone during the day; but he wouldn’t be in town long anyway. When he was told by his superior to attend the meeting of the Undies Run (and volunteer!) he had no idea lives would change that night…
The suspected arson which destroyed the Ag store and Ruby’s parents’ livelihood that night was the beginning of a devastating run of events which would bring most people undone. But as Drew and his offsiders investigated, it seemed the town was divided in who they thought was to blame. Frustrated and annoyed, Drew knew he was missing something – but could he discover answers before it was too late? And was it worth getting to know Ruby more when he was leaving Bunyip Bay?
Outback Blaze by Aussie author Rachael Johns is another gripping romantic suspense in the Bunyip Bay series, and I thoroughly enjoyed it! Mystery, intrigue and suspense blends with light romance to make a highly entertaining read. Highly recommended.
Police constable Drew Noble had only been in Bunyip Bay for a couple of months and was finding the country friendship and hospitality a big difference from his home in England. He wasn’t sure he could get used to stopping and chatting to everyone during the day; but he wouldn’t be in town long anyway. When he was told by his superior to attend the meeting of the Undies Run (and volunteer!) he had no idea lives would change that night…
The suspected arson which destroyed the Ag store and Ruby’s parents’ livelihood that night was the beginning of a devastating run of events which would bring most people undone. But as Drew and his offsiders investigated, it seemed the town was divided in who they thought was to blame. Frustrated and annoyed, Drew knew he was missing something – but could he discover answers before it was too late? And was it worth getting to know Ruby more when he was leaving Bunyip Bay?
Outback Blaze by Aussie author Rachael Johns is another gripping romantic suspense in the Bunyip Bay series, and I thoroughly enjoyed it! Mystery, intrigue and suspense blends with light romance to make a highly entertaining read. Highly recommended.
February 21, 2017
Outback Blaze is about the two people who both have suffered trauma in the past find love in a small country town. Ruby Jones came to Bunyip Bay to setup horse riding business, and through that, she could never love again after her violent breakup with her finance. On the other hand, Drew Noble was the local constable in Bunyip Bay, and he believed that love and police officers do not work. However, this is not what happen in Outback Blaze. The Readers of Outback Blaze will follow the blossoming romance between Ruby and Drew, entwine with the suspicious incidents surrounding Ruby's family. Outback Blaze also highlights how people in small towns can be so nasty in some situations but so thoughtful in others. I enjoyed the ending of Outback Blaze and the way Rachael Johns portrays the relationships between Drew and his workmates. The interesting thing I learnt, reading Outback Blaze is that being placed into protective custody does not mean you have to stay in your country. Also, the readers of Outback Blaze will be surprised with who is the suspect for all the problems Ruby's family was having. I recommend this book
September 4, 2021
Racheal Johns would have to be my new favourite Australian author! I loved Outback Blaze just as much as Outback Dreams. Her writing style just wants to make you keep reading and not put the book down until you have finished reading he last page. Outback Blaze made me giggle, smile and cry throughout the book. I loved the drama of the story, the twists and the romance that grew between Ruby and Drew. I have thoroughly enjoyed reading these two books in this series and am looking forward to the next book Outback Ghost.
January 27, 2021
3.5 stars for book #2.
An interesting twist for a second instalment with one of the minor characters from the first book taking centre stage. I was disappointed that the main characters from Book One barely appeared but overall a pleasant read.
Ruby and Drew are not quite as engrossing as Faith and Monty but still I enjoyed the overall story and outcome. It will be very interesting to see where this series goes from here.
An interesting twist for a second instalment with one of the minor characters from the first book taking centre stage. I was disappointed that the main characters from Book One barely appeared but overall a pleasant read.
Ruby and Drew are not quite as engrossing as Faith and Monty but still I enjoyed the overall story and outcome. It will be very interesting to see where this series goes from here.
May 3, 2014
In Outback Blaze, Rachael Johns invites us to return to the small Western Australian farming community of Bunyip Bay that she introduced us to in Outback Dreams.
In the time that Ruby Jones has been living with her parents after breaking her engagement, she has begun to feel at home in the community of Bunyip Bay, so when her parent's business is destroyed by fire and investigators determine the cause as arson, Ruby is devastated when rumours start to circulate that her hard working and generous spirited parents could be responsible. Local police officer Drew Noble can't let his attraction to Ruby influence the case but he thinks it unlikely the Joneses are capable of committing insurance fraud. Left with few investigative options, Drew begins to suspect that someone deliberately targeted the family and when Ruby is the victim of a second tragedy, he will do anything to protect her.
Readers familiar with Outback Dreams will recognise Ruby as the character who briefly dated Monty before he and Faith finally worked things out. A relative newcomer to Bunyip Bay, Ruby has escaped an abusive relationship and sought refuge with her parents, working part time in their agricultural store and providing horse riding lessons to local children, while getting involved in community events like the upcoming Bunyip Bay Festival. Despite her painful past Ruby has worked hard to rebuild her life when the fire, and subsequent events, threaten to destroy everything she has achieved.
Like Ruby, Drew is a newcomer to Bunyip Bay. A British police officer forced to participate in an exchange program, he doesn't plan to stay for long, but is nevertheless determined to work hard and do his best for the community. Drew's attraction to Ruby is a complication he can do without, but when Ruby is in danger he realises he can't live his life in limbo forever.
Johns brings these two characters together based on both their physical attraction and their need for company and comfort. It's a fine line for her to walk, due to the ongoing investigation, but the author neatly sidesteps those concerns and carefully develops a believable romance between Ruby and Drew.
This is the first of Johns’ rural romance novels to develop a plot that also includes an arc of suspense. Though I think there was potential for the author to push this a bit further, I enjoyed the addition, and was somewhat surprised by the identity of the culprit.
With its appealing characters, sweet romance and interesting mystery, Outback Blaze is another wonderful novel from Rachael Johns. I am already looking forward to revisiting Bunyip Bay in Outback Ghost, due for release in October 2014.
March 16, 2023
This was a sweet rural romance with suspense. Ruby Jones is living in Burnip bay with her parents after a very nasty breakup from her ex-fiance. English police officer Drew Noble has recently moved to Australia from England after he was forced to leave England. Meanwhile Ruby has just been putting her life back together by spending time with people she's starting to consider friends and by giving some of the local children horseriding lessons. But this all gets put into danger after a fire burns down her parent's business, The Ag store. It soon becomes clear that the fire was deliberately lit, which means that there is an arsonist in Burnip bay. This is of course very stressful for Ruby and it gets worse when her parents are questioned by the police about the fire, and they are soon suspected of burning down their own business. Drew is one of the police officers investigating the case. He is angry when O'Leary, one of the other officers blames two local teenagers for the fire, and orders him to arrest them. Drew does so, but he knows that they are innocent even though they've committed crimes before (though only minor ones). He is determined to prove their innocence. Ruby meanwhile has to face the hostility of many people in the town but she finds comfort with her horses,Roxie and Riley. She's attracted to Drew and he is to her. Drew tries not to let his attraction to Ruby interfere with how he handles the case, but after they shared a kiss he knows he wants more of her. Drew is helping Ruby get over her relationship with her ex-fiance and how he hurt her, both physically and emotionally. They both feel comfortable around each other and they soon enter an arrangement to have sex but not be in a relationship as they both aren't ready for one. Ruby and Drew get used to this and soon he is spending nights at her home. She soon realises that she has feelings for him, and he also has feelings for her but he still doesn't want to be in a relationship. He decides to arrange to end their arrangement because it feels too much like one. But Ruby's horse Riley is poisoned and she is left devastated. Drew realises that he can't leave her after this has happened. The arsonist eventually finds Ruby (it turns out to be the sister of her ex Jonas). She holds Ruby hostage but Ruby manages to escape. Jonas's sister is soon caught by the police, including Drew. Ruby and Drew reveal their feelings for each other and they decide to be together. I really enjoyed this book. I liked the romance between Ruby and Drew and the mystery of who set the fire was interesting. I actually thought Jonas did it so I definitely didn't guess his sister doing it. I'm really enjoying this series and I'm looking forward to reading the next one.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 1, 2014
A painful break up has seen Ruby Jones back living with her parents in the town of Bunyip Bay looking to start over. She works in her parent’s feed store while she gets her small business teaching people to ride off the ground. Ruby’s horses are her pride and joy and she loves spending time with them and introducing others to the pleasures of riding. While she’s looking to start afresh and get her life going again, the last thing Ruby is looking for is romance. That is something she’s definitely not interested in.
For police officer Drew Noble, Bunyip Bay isn’t somewhere he plans to be permanently. In fact, he’s only here at all because of some unfortunate circumstances and a favour called in. He’s keeping his head down and doing his job despite the fact that he really outranks pretty much everyone else around him. One day it’ll all be over and he can get back to doing what he does best, devoting his life to his career. Drew definitely isn’t looking for romance either. He’s been there, done that and it didn’t end too well.
Then Ruby and Drew meet each other.
The attraction is mutual and immediate but it’s a little complicated by the fact that Drew is investigating a fire at Ruby’s parents’ place of business, one that is incredibly suspicious. The locals want to pin it on a couple of young kids who have been in a little bit of strife but Drew is convinced it’s not the teenagers. That means he has to look at other options, including Ruby’s parents. After all, they’re the owners and the property is insured and Drew is trained to look at all the angles. Even if they come with a beautiful woman who distracts him as a part of them.
The more Drew digs the more he becomes convinced that Ruby is the target and that she’s in danger. He wants to make sure she’s safe, even if there can’t be a future for them. But what was meant to be casual, something Drew could walk away from when the time came, is proving to be anything but.
Outback Blaze is the second novel in the Bunyip Bay trilogy and we return to the small town for Ruby’s story. Ruby was introduced in Outback Dreams when Monty tried to date her, which obviously didn’t work out. Ruby has had a rough time of it and tends to keep to herself a bit, or did before she got dragged into the Bunyip Bay community. Whilst she experiences the friendliness and inclusion, Ruby also experiences the negative side after her parent’s store is set on fire deliberately when some people begin to suspect that it was done by her parents for an insurance job. Despite the fact that Ruby has an alibi for the fire (and it’s a pretty good one) the suspicion and judgement seems to extend to her as well as people snub her in the street and cancel horse riding lessons for their children. She retreats, with only Drew and a close friend or two really sticking by her.
I loved the pairing of Ruby and Drew, even more than I did Monty and Faith in Outback Dreams. Drew is just the sort of character I like – tall, dark, little mysterious, man in a uniform….come on, what’s not to like?! Plus he agrees to get his gear off for a local community event and run in his underwear (ok he doesn’t know that’s what he agreed to but he takes it pretty well in stride when he finds out!). He and Ruby have a great dynamic with both of them feeling the attraction but also keeping secrets and trying not to get too involved, more in the case of Drew there. It’s obvious he’s a man hiding things, a man with a few secrets but the snippets and the reveal was very good. What I liked about Drew was even though he had to examine all of the angles, he supported Ruby 100%, especially when she ended up nearly all on her own. He is part of the investigation and he has to look at all the possibilities and he was questioning people and doing some digging but he still spends pretty much every night with her, giving her that presence and support that she needed when many others in the community were shunning her. And his thoughts are always primarily with her and her safety which made me love him a lot!
This is Rachael Johns’s first go at adding a suspense element into her story and I think it played out pretty well. There were definitely some things that I did not see coming and one of which always manages to push my buttons! I had some suspicions about the culprit – not my first guess but I think all of the pieces fell into place really well and gave the reader a good chance to puzzle it out along with Drew, who probably goes above and beyond to get to the bottom of the mystery, especially once it becomes obvious that Ruby is the real target and that her life is probably in danger. And Ruby being in danger also makes Drew realise that the life he is leading isn’t anywhere near as fulfilling as it could be and that he has some choices to make.
There’s one book to go in this trilogy, Outback Ghost which is due out late this year. It will be Adam’s story, a character who has appeared in both books and is part of a small story that’s been running the whole way through. You can read them stand alone but the experience and overall feel of the small community and the people in it is better if you read them in order, especially to get a bit of Adam’s background before his own book comes out. I can’t wait to read Ghost - I’m looking forward to catching up with all of the Bunyip Bay residents again and seeing what is in store for Adam!
Rachael Johns is fast becoming one of Australia’s most popular authors and with each release she justifies why – realistic, relatable characters, small towns with a great feel and storylines that keep the reader hooked and always wanting her next book. Waiting sucks!
For police officer Drew Noble, Bunyip Bay isn’t somewhere he plans to be permanently. In fact, he’s only here at all because of some unfortunate circumstances and a favour called in. He’s keeping his head down and doing his job despite the fact that he really outranks pretty much everyone else around him. One day it’ll all be over and he can get back to doing what he does best, devoting his life to his career. Drew definitely isn’t looking for romance either. He’s been there, done that and it didn’t end too well.
Then Ruby and Drew meet each other.
The attraction is mutual and immediate but it’s a little complicated by the fact that Drew is investigating a fire at Ruby’s parents’ place of business, one that is incredibly suspicious. The locals want to pin it on a couple of young kids who have been in a little bit of strife but Drew is convinced it’s not the teenagers. That means he has to look at other options, including Ruby’s parents. After all, they’re the owners and the property is insured and Drew is trained to look at all the angles. Even if they come with a beautiful woman who distracts him as a part of them.
The more Drew digs the more he becomes convinced that Ruby is the target and that she’s in danger. He wants to make sure she’s safe, even if there can’t be a future for them. But what was meant to be casual, something Drew could walk away from when the time came, is proving to be anything but.
Outback Blaze is the second novel in the Bunyip Bay trilogy and we return to the small town for Ruby’s story. Ruby was introduced in Outback Dreams when Monty tried to date her, which obviously didn’t work out. Ruby has had a rough time of it and tends to keep to herself a bit, or did before she got dragged into the Bunyip Bay community. Whilst she experiences the friendliness and inclusion, Ruby also experiences the negative side after her parent’s store is set on fire deliberately when some people begin to suspect that it was done by her parents for an insurance job. Despite the fact that Ruby has an alibi for the fire (and it’s a pretty good one) the suspicion and judgement seems to extend to her as well as people snub her in the street and cancel horse riding lessons for their children. She retreats, with only Drew and a close friend or two really sticking by her.
I loved the pairing of Ruby and Drew, even more than I did Monty and Faith in Outback Dreams. Drew is just the sort of character I like – tall, dark, little mysterious, man in a uniform….come on, what’s not to like?! Plus he agrees to get his gear off for a local community event and run in his underwear (ok he doesn’t know that’s what he agreed to but he takes it pretty well in stride when he finds out!). He and Ruby have a great dynamic with both of them feeling the attraction but also keeping secrets and trying not to get too involved, more in the case of Drew there. It’s obvious he’s a man hiding things, a man with a few secrets but the snippets and the reveal was very good. What I liked about Drew was even though he had to examine all of the angles, he supported Ruby 100%, especially when she ended up nearly all on her own. He is part of the investigation and he has to look at all the possibilities and he was questioning people and doing some digging but he still spends pretty much every night with her, giving her that presence and support that she needed when many others in the community were shunning her. And his thoughts are always primarily with her and her safety which made me love him a lot!
This is Rachael Johns’s first go at adding a suspense element into her story and I think it played out pretty well. There were definitely some things that I did not see coming and one of which always manages to push my buttons! I had some suspicions about the culprit – not my first guess but I think all of the pieces fell into place really well and gave the reader a good chance to puzzle it out along with Drew, who probably goes above and beyond to get to the bottom of the mystery, especially once it becomes obvious that Ruby is the real target and that her life is probably in danger. And Ruby being in danger also makes Drew realise that the life he is leading isn’t anywhere near as fulfilling as it could be and that he has some choices to make.
There’s one book to go in this trilogy, Outback Ghost which is due out late this year. It will be Adam’s story, a character who has appeared in both books and is part of a small story that’s been running the whole way through. You can read them stand alone but the experience and overall feel of the small community and the people in it is better if you read them in order, especially to get a bit of Adam’s background before his own book comes out. I can’t wait to read Ghost - I’m looking forward to catching up with all of the Bunyip Bay residents again and seeing what is in store for Adam!
Rachael Johns is fast becoming one of Australia’s most popular authors and with each release she justifies why – realistic, relatable characters, small towns with a great feel and storylines that keep the reader hooked and always wanting her next book. Waiting sucks!
July 18, 2024
This second book focuses on Ruby Jones and Drew Noble, who were secondary characters in Outback Dreams. Ruby was fleeing a traumatic past when she arrived in Bunyip Bay to set up her horse riding business. She has no intention of beginning a relationship and just wants to put her life back together. Drew is the town’s new police officer. He sees Bunyip Bay as a temporary refuge, rather than a permanent home. However, he finds himself unexpectedly drawn to this town and its community, including Ruby Jones. After a suspicious fire at Ruby’s parents’ store, Drew must investigate. He finds himself protecting Ruby as a new threat emerges and their attraction to one another begins to flourish.
I loved getting to know Ruby and Drew and watch their romance bloom. The mystery of the fire and the investigation into how it started was suspenseful and intriguing and made a great addition to the romantic plot. Although I didn’t feel as connected to Ruby as I did Faith in Outback Dreams, she did have a great backstory which was slowly revealed. Drew was the perfect town cop and so protective and sweet towards Ruby. I loved their connection.
Bunyip Bay is such a special warm hearted place and I can’t wait to return in Outback Ghost.
I loved getting to know Ruby and Drew and watch their romance bloom. The mystery of the fire and the investigation into how it started was suspenseful and intriguing and made a great addition to the romantic plot. Although I didn’t feel as connected to Ruby as I did Faith in Outback Dreams, she did have a great backstory which was slowly revealed. Drew was the perfect town cop and so protective and sweet towards Ruby. I loved their connection.
Bunyip Bay is such a special warm hearted place and I can’t wait to return in Outback Ghost.
May 2, 2014
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!
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!
November 22, 2014
Another great book by Rachael John's, perfect for a few days escape from the real world.
I loved revisiting Bunyip Bay and thoroughly enjoyed Ruby's and Drew's story. I read that this was Rachael's first attempt at suspense and I think she did a fantastic job.
Can't wait for Outback Ghost but guess I'll have to!
I loved revisiting Bunyip Bay and thoroughly enjoyed Ruby's and Drew's story. I read that this was Rachael's first attempt at suspense and I think she did a fantastic job.
Can't wait for Outback Ghost but guess I'll have to!
July 12, 2014
Wow, a massive twist I did not see coming! Awesome read.
September 12, 2025
After loving Outback Dreams, I dove straight into Outback Blaze—the second in the Bunyip Bay series—and it didn’t disappoint. While it can absolutely be read as a standalone, I really enjoyed seeing familiar faces and the continued build of characters from book one. This time, the spotlight is on Drew and Ruby, and their story is heartfelt and full of charm.
Once again, Rachael Johns nails that authentically Aussie feel. From IGA supermarkets and Tim Tams to the easy, familiar slang, the setting feels so real you can almost hear the magpies warbling in the background. It’s beautifully written, warm, and distinctly Australian.
The romance delivers with just a touch of spice—about 2 🌶️, enough to keep things interesting without overshadowing the emotional depth.
Bunyip Bay has well and truly captured my heart. Now I’m desperate to know the inspiration for this small town—I’d visit in a heartbeat.
3.8/5 for me—comforting, heartfelt, and oh-so Aussie.
Once again, Rachael Johns nails that authentically Aussie feel. From IGA supermarkets and Tim Tams to the easy, familiar slang, the setting feels so real you can almost hear the magpies warbling in the background. It’s beautifully written, warm, and distinctly Australian.
The romance delivers with just a touch of spice—about 2 🌶️, enough to keep things interesting without overshadowing the emotional depth.
Bunyip Bay has well and truly captured my heart. Now I’m desperate to know the inspiration for this small town—I’d visit in a heartbeat.
3.8/5 for me—comforting, heartfelt, and oh-so Aussie.
October 4, 2018
I haven't read a book by Rachael that I haven't loved! I have read all her recent books, but am so far behind on her back catalogue! Outback Blaze is the second book in the Bunyip Bay series and tells the story of Drew an English cop who has just begun working in the bay to escape a situation back home. Ruby works in her parents Ag store as well as teaching horseriding. When her parents store burns down suspicions rise everywhere especially seeing her mother has recently been diagnosed with MND. Drew is responsible to try to find out what happened, thats when he meets Ruby. They are instantly attracted but see too many barriers in the way to contemplate a relationship. I really loved this book, yes there was romance in part but the majority had a great storyline with believable characters and situations. Another winner from Rachael!
September 2, 2021
This is an easy to read light book. I really enjoyed the characters, romance and crime element. I enjoyed the progression of the story including the things that came out towards the end. Rachael did well in creating suspense. I highly recently this book and look forward to Outback Ghost.
January 23, 2021
Not as engaging as the first, and far too cheesy, which is a common problem with romance novels I find.
February 21, 2022
2nd in series Australian outback romance.
Good dramatic storyline, very good narrator.
# sex scenes.
Good dramatic storyline, very good narrator.
# sex scenes.
November 19, 2024
The second book in the Bunyip Bay series by one of my favourite authors did not disappoint. There were some shocks within the storyline, and it was so great to listen to.
August 16, 2025
Finally, I usually finish a novel in the school hols but not this time 🤪 Loved this story. Characters are believable and the traits of the town are too. Thanks Rachel! Another corker!
May 6, 2014
Rachael Johns’ books never fail to put a smile on my face. Her stories are always brilliantly crafted, with realistic characters and a plot that demands you to sit down and find out what happens! With Outback Blaze, she entered new territory with romantic suspense elements and of course, excels. (The last 50 pages of this book had me reading with one hand, and brushing my teeth with the other. I just had to know what happened).
Outback Blaze is the second story set in Bunyip Bay, a coastal rural town in Western Australia and an area I know well. You can read this book as a standalone very happily, or after the first book in the series (Outback Dreams). As a devotee of Outback Dreams, I really enjoyed revisiting the characters I new, as well as meeting new ones (the Bunyip Bay police are definitely fun characters!). The story revolves around Ruby, whose parents own the town’s Ag Store (that’s where the farmers go to get their stuff, like pesticides and drenches) and Drew, the hunky new policeman direct from the UK. Ruby is a relative newcomer to Bunyip Bay, returning to live with her parents after the end of a relationship, but she’s done well in setting up a horse riding school and becoming involved in community activities. Drew is somewhat of an outsider – his idea of policing is different to that of his laidback colleagues, but his physique hasn’t escaped the notice of the local ladies. So when Drew is volunteered by his sergeant to take part in the town’s Undies Run for charity, hearts are aflutter. Only thing is, nobody told Drew that undies mean underwear only…
It’s in the middle of a photo shoot for the men of the Undies Run that the Ag Store catches fire. The town watches as the store burns to the ground and immediately arson is suspected. Was it the young offenders Drew has been helping to rehabilitate? Was it Ruby’s parents? Who has a vendetta against Ruby and her parents? Could it be one of the townspeople? Rumours and suspicions set the town alight and divide the citizens. Ruby finds Drew to be one of her biggest allies – but could he be something more? Drew’s not interested in a relationship and Ruby certainly doesn’t want a repeat of her previous one. Could the damaged pair heal each other?
In between Ruby and Drew circling each other are a number of mysteries, mainly surrounding the fire. I found these fascinating because I simply could not work out who the culprit was! There were some great red herrings – even I was suspicious after two of the suspects just disappeared from Bunyip Bay. As for the real culprit, I certainly didn’t see it coming – their reason for doing what they did initially seemed a bit odd, but really fit in with their character. The narrative really sped up as the culprit was revealed in a tense situation – it’s a section that I just did not want to stop reading.
Another thing that Rachael nails in this story is the feeling of the small rural community. She shows the caring side (such as the way Ruby’s family receive a ton of food after the fire) but also shows the negative side. The town is so close knit, that once Ruby’s family is suspected of ‘doing an insurance job’ on the Ag Store, she is completely shunned. People she is friends with, families she teaches riding to, completely shun her without a fair trial. It shows how the community protects their own, but also how some can be quick to ostracise.
I can’t finish this review without talking about the romance between Drew and Ruby. While I thought I was head over heels for Monty in Outback Dreams, I may have to rethink my loyalties after getting to know Drew. He’s a great character – kind, driven and loyal. His dedication to helping Ruby heal and investigating the arson on his own time is very sweet – almost swoon worthy. Ruby’s not too bad herself – she’s kept quiet about some previous traumatic experiences and has a deep loyalty to try to protect her parents, as well as support and feed Drew. The romance was believable with a hint of spice.
I’d highly recommend Rachael Johns as THE author if you want to try the rural romance genre. Her books are always well plotted (with more than romance) with fantastic characters.
Thank you to Harlequin Australia for the copy of this book.
http://samstillreading.wordpress.com
Outback Blaze is the second story set in Bunyip Bay, a coastal rural town in Western Australia and an area I know well. You can read this book as a standalone very happily, or after the first book in the series (Outback Dreams). As a devotee of Outback Dreams, I really enjoyed revisiting the characters I new, as well as meeting new ones (the Bunyip Bay police are definitely fun characters!). The story revolves around Ruby, whose parents own the town’s Ag Store (that’s where the farmers go to get their stuff, like pesticides and drenches) and Drew, the hunky new policeman direct from the UK. Ruby is a relative newcomer to Bunyip Bay, returning to live with her parents after the end of a relationship, but she’s done well in setting up a horse riding school and becoming involved in community activities. Drew is somewhat of an outsider – his idea of policing is different to that of his laidback colleagues, but his physique hasn’t escaped the notice of the local ladies. So when Drew is volunteered by his sergeant to take part in the town’s Undies Run for charity, hearts are aflutter. Only thing is, nobody told Drew that undies mean underwear only…
It’s in the middle of a photo shoot for the men of the Undies Run that the Ag Store catches fire. The town watches as the store burns to the ground and immediately arson is suspected. Was it the young offenders Drew has been helping to rehabilitate? Was it Ruby’s parents? Who has a vendetta against Ruby and her parents? Could it be one of the townspeople? Rumours and suspicions set the town alight and divide the citizens. Ruby finds Drew to be one of her biggest allies – but could he be something more? Drew’s not interested in a relationship and Ruby certainly doesn’t want a repeat of her previous one. Could the damaged pair heal each other?
In between Ruby and Drew circling each other are a number of mysteries, mainly surrounding the fire. I found these fascinating because I simply could not work out who the culprit was! There were some great red herrings – even I was suspicious after two of the suspects just disappeared from Bunyip Bay. As for the real culprit, I certainly didn’t see it coming – their reason for doing what they did initially seemed a bit odd, but really fit in with their character. The narrative really sped up as the culprit was revealed in a tense situation – it’s a section that I just did not want to stop reading.
Another thing that Rachael nails in this story is the feeling of the small rural community. She shows the caring side (such as the way Ruby’s family receive a ton of food after the fire) but also shows the negative side. The town is so close knit, that once Ruby’s family is suspected of ‘doing an insurance job’ on the Ag Store, she is completely shunned. People she is friends with, families she teaches riding to, completely shun her without a fair trial. It shows how the community protects their own, but also how some can be quick to ostracise.
I can’t finish this review without talking about the romance between Drew and Ruby. While I thought I was head over heels for Monty in Outback Dreams, I may have to rethink my loyalties after getting to know Drew. He’s a great character – kind, driven and loyal. His dedication to helping Ruby heal and investigating the arson on his own time is very sweet – almost swoon worthy. Ruby’s not too bad herself – she’s kept quiet about some previous traumatic experiences and has a deep loyalty to try to protect her parents, as well as support and feed Drew. The romance was believable with a hint of spice.
I’d highly recommend Rachael Johns as THE author if you want to try the rural romance genre. Her books are always well plotted (with more than romance) with fantastic characters.
Thank you to Harlequin Australia for the copy of this book.
http://samstillreading.wordpress.com
May 23, 2014
You know you’re in for something a bit different when a romance opens with Drew arriving at a photography session for an upcoming fund raiser ‘men of the Undies Run’ and finds out it means he has to strip down to just his underwear! Especially when the most gorgeous male you’ve ever seen (ahem – outside my husband of course) is on the front cover and you just know this is Drew. OUTBACK BLAZE is second book in the Bunyip Bay series, the first being Outback Dreams which I read and adored last year. Both Ruby and Drew appeared in Outback Dreams, but as support characters, now they are front and centre. Ruby has escaped an abusive marriage and has moved in with her parents to help in their agriculture supply store and set up her own business giving horse riding lessons to the local children. Drew has only newly arrived at Bunyip Bay, he is a British police officer forced by circumstances to be undercover in the small outback Australian town. As soon as he is given the all clear he will return to the UK, but his work ethics means he will give 100% to the community while he is here. So of course two people who have no intention of settling down are attracted to each other, and to make it even more precarious and angst ridden Ruby and her parents are suspects for arson when the agriculture supply shop burns down and is found to be deliberately started.
Rachael Johns knows small towns and she has recreated her fictional community vividly. In Bunyip Bay, like hundreds of small country communities around Australia, everyone knows everyone else; everyone knows everything about each other (and makes up what they don’t know). When one suffers they all pitch in to help, but if you wrong the town then they will turn against you on mass – and being on the receiving end of shunning is not a pleasant place to be. Fortunately Ruby has friends on her side, and Drew knows that Ruby and her parents are innocent, and he firmly believes Ruby is a target, but who? And why? Trouble is, knowing and proving are two different things so Drew has to do a bit of extra-curricular investigation. There is suspense, love, drama, laughter and one scene where I guarantee you will shed tears. I did not suspect the guilty person until Drew and Ruby did, but when it was revealed it made perfect sense – and fitted well into the plot without being too obvious or completely from left field. There were lots of red herrings and twists and turns before the dramatic climax when the big reveal is made. Talk about edge of the seat stuff! Rachael Johns’ characters are all totally realistic whether they are a small child having a horse riding lesson, a nasty person hell bent on causing trouble or a grumpy old woman in the local supermarket. They all live and breathe on the pages.
There is one more book in this series to go which is due for release later this year – Outback Ghost – this will be focussed on Adam who has played a minor character in the first two books and, dare I say looking at the title, a ghost? I hate waiting – but at least I don’t have to wait very long!
Rachael Johns knows small towns and she has recreated her fictional community vividly. In Bunyip Bay, like hundreds of small country communities around Australia, everyone knows everyone else; everyone knows everything about each other (and makes up what they don’t know). When one suffers they all pitch in to help, but if you wrong the town then they will turn against you on mass – and being on the receiving end of shunning is not a pleasant place to be. Fortunately Ruby has friends on her side, and Drew knows that Ruby and her parents are innocent, and he firmly believes Ruby is a target, but who? And why? Trouble is, knowing and proving are two different things so Drew has to do a bit of extra-curricular investigation. There is suspense, love, drama, laughter and one scene where I guarantee you will shed tears. I did not suspect the guilty person until Drew and Ruby did, but when it was revealed it made perfect sense – and fitted well into the plot without being too obvious or completely from left field. There were lots of red herrings and twists and turns before the dramatic climax when the big reveal is made. Talk about edge of the seat stuff! Rachael Johns’ characters are all totally realistic whether they are a small child having a horse riding lesson, a nasty person hell bent on causing trouble or a grumpy old woman in the local supermarket. They all live and breathe on the pages.
There is one more book in this series to go which is due for release later this year – Outback Ghost – this will be focussed on Adam who has played a minor character in the first two books and, dare I say looking at the title, a ghost? I hate waiting – but at least I don’t have to wait very long!
August 12, 2014
I thoroughly enjoyed Outback Dreams and couldn’t wait to read Outback Blaze. I love the idea behind Rachael Johns’ premise. It was great to see where her idea came from for the fire. To be honest I didn’t love this on as much as the first, but I am really excited about reading Outback Ghost. Throughout books one and two, the ghost is present and the mystery behind the ghost is mentioned in book one, but I want to read Adam’s story; the loveable and sweet hottie has to find true love.
Ruby Jones, twenty-seven has returned home and living with her parents again. There is a mystery as to what happened with her fiancé, but they let Ruby have her peace. Ruby is an organising freak and has agreed to organise the local Undies Run for charity. The first stage is promotion, Ruby together with her friend Simone are arranging a photo-shoot with some of the hot runners to get more interest and of course they’re in their undies.
Simone sets the stage and Ruby gets the guys. Adam, Ryan, Liam and Drew have arrived, but it appears Drew, the UK police officer has turned modest, since he was volunteered to participate in the first place. So it’s just the other men and the ladies certainly don’t complain about the three muscled locals.
When the shoot was over, smoke wafts through the town and everyone heads out to see what’s happening. There’s a raging fire in the Ag shop, Ruby’s parents shop. Ruby rushes out and her parents arrive at the same time. They are all devastated, all they can do is watch the volunteer firefighters try their hardest to salvage what they can. The whole town has come out to watch the spectacle.
Drew talks to Ruby and questions are going around about who would have burned down the Ag store. Nobody has a grudge against the Jones, they are an integral part of the community. Ruby’s parents are acting very strange lately too, her father seems very attentive towards her mother and something just isn’t right. What secret are they hiding?
Ruby isn’t looking for a relationship, after everything she’s gone through in the past twelve months, she is trying to focus on her horse-riding business. But when she keeps running into Drew Noble, her attraction towards him cannot be ignored for much longer.
Drew has his own secrets and is determined to keep them that way. Drew isn’t getting along very well with his Sergeant and the investigation on the fire. Drew knows that the answers aren’t right and is resolved to find the truth for Ruby.
Will Drew and Ruby give in to desire? Can Drew find the true arsonists? What is his secret? What happened to Ruby twelve months ago? What is going on with Ruby’s parents?
Outback Blaze is a fun read with the antics of Simone and the Undies Run. I didn’t find this one as addictive as Outback Dreams, but it was definitely entertaining and intriguing. With the secrets of both characters, I was drawn to find out what happened and if they would get together. I highly recommend this series to all romance readers.
Ruby Jones, twenty-seven has returned home and living with her parents again. There is a mystery as to what happened with her fiancé, but they let Ruby have her peace. Ruby is an organising freak and has agreed to organise the local Undies Run for charity. The first stage is promotion, Ruby together with her friend Simone are arranging a photo-shoot with some of the hot runners to get more interest and of course they’re in their undies.
Simone sets the stage and Ruby gets the guys. Adam, Ryan, Liam and Drew have arrived, but it appears Drew, the UK police officer has turned modest, since he was volunteered to participate in the first place. So it’s just the other men and the ladies certainly don’t complain about the three muscled locals.
When the shoot was over, smoke wafts through the town and everyone heads out to see what’s happening. There’s a raging fire in the Ag shop, Ruby’s parents shop. Ruby rushes out and her parents arrive at the same time. They are all devastated, all they can do is watch the volunteer firefighters try their hardest to salvage what they can. The whole town has come out to watch the spectacle.
Drew talks to Ruby and questions are going around about who would have burned down the Ag store. Nobody has a grudge against the Jones, they are an integral part of the community. Ruby’s parents are acting very strange lately too, her father seems very attentive towards her mother and something just isn’t right. What secret are they hiding?
Ruby isn’t looking for a relationship, after everything she’s gone through in the past twelve months, she is trying to focus on her horse-riding business. But when she keeps running into Drew Noble, her attraction towards him cannot be ignored for much longer.
Drew has his own secrets and is determined to keep them that way. Drew isn’t getting along very well with his Sergeant and the investigation on the fire. Drew knows that the answers aren’t right and is resolved to find the truth for Ruby.
Will Drew and Ruby give in to desire? Can Drew find the true arsonists? What is his secret? What happened to Ruby twelve months ago? What is going on with Ruby’s parents?
Outback Blaze is a fun read with the antics of Simone and the Undies Run. I didn’t find this one as addictive as Outback Dreams, but it was definitely entertaining and intriguing. With the secrets of both characters, I was drawn to find out what happened and if they would get together. I highly recommend this series to all romance readers.
November 25, 2014
Outback Blaze is the second installment in the Bunyip Bay series and I thoroughly enjoyed revisiting this small rural Australian town after reading Outback Dreams a little while ago.
I found the main female character, Ruby Jones, very likeable and I've come to realise that Rachael Johns develops her female leads quite well. Ruby has a very painful past and was doing her best to rebuild her life back in Bunyip Bay and live a normal life. The way her and Drew come together and develop their romance is nice and believable without seeming too forced and I prefer this type of romance to the sappy, 'fall head over heels in a heartbeat' kind.
I really enjoyed the interesting back story as to why Drew came to join this little town and I also found his character developed in a realistic way. You really wanted these two people to be together and find happiness within each other.
As for the other characters in the book, there were some interesting developments that those who have read Outback Dreams and are familiar with the history of some of the original characters will certainly appreciate. This doesn't mean you have to have read Outback Dreams to enjoy Outback Blaze at all as it could quite easily be read as a standalone story in itself.
The addition of the suspense element broke this book up nicely and I always find that reading books like these really make me long to experience living life in a small rural town one day just to see what it is really like.
I definitely look forward to reading the third installment in the series, Outback Ghost, in the near future.
I found the main female character, Ruby Jones, very likeable and I've come to realise that Rachael Johns develops her female leads quite well. Ruby has a very painful past and was doing her best to rebuild her life back in Bunyip Bay and live a normal life. The way her and Drew come together and develop their romance is nice and believable without seeming too forced and I prefer this type of romance to the sappy, 'fall head over heels in a heartbeat' kind.
I really enjoyed the interesting back story as to why Drew came to join this little town and I also found his character developed in a realistic way. You really wanted these two people to be together and find happiness within each other.
As for the other characters in the book, there were some interesting developments that those who have read Outback Dreams and are familiar with the history of some of the original characters will certainly appreciate. This doesn't mean you have to have read Outback Dreams to enjoy Outback Blaze at all as it could quite easily be read as a standalone story in itself.
The addition of the suspense element broke this book up nicely and I always find that reading books like these really make me long to experience living life in a small rural town one day just to see what it is really like.
I definitely look forward to reading the third installment in the series, Outback Ghost, in the near future.
May 27, 2014
Confession I asked for this book on Good Reads because I loved the cover and the story line sounded like just the kind of not to heavy read I was looking for and I was not disappointed at all.
I fell in love with this book. It lived up completely to my expectations and made for light, happy and even suspenseful reading.
I loved the characters of Drew and Ruby, Ruby I can see in many country girls I know and Drew while not many of our country cops were from the UK I certainly can see the attraction.
It was a page turner that I didn't want to put down. The fact I could easily relate to almost every character including the county gossips as someone I knew growing up in a slightly larger country town made it feel warm and comfortable.
I found it had a easy flow as the story developed and many unexpected twists and turns and I was deeply concerned at one point it may not give me the ending I was looking for, that's how connected I felt to Drew and Ruby while reading their story.
This book was such a relaxing feel good read that I will now go and buy the rest of the books in the series I don't often read romance with a criminal twist but Rachael Johns certainly sold me on this series. well done. HIGHLY recommended
I fell in love with this book. It lived up completely to my expectations and made for light, happy and even suspenseful reading.
I loved the characters of Drew and Ruby, Ruby I can see in many country girls I know and Drew while not many of our country cops were from the UK I certainly can see the attraction.
It was a page turner that I didn't want to put down. The fact I could easily relate to almost every character including the county gossips as someone I knew growing up in a slightly larger country town made it feel warm and comfortable.
I found it had a easy flow as the story developed and many unexpected twists and turns and I was deeply concerned at one point it may not give me the ending I was looking for, that's how connected I felt to Drew and Ruby while reading their story.
This book was such a relaxing feel good read that I will now go and buy the rest of the books in the series I don't often read romance with a criminal twist but Rachael Johns certainly sold me on this series. well done. HIGHLY recommended
July 16, 2015
Another fantastic book from Rachael Johns. This is the second in the Bunyip Bay series and I'm really pleased that I won't have to wait too much longer for the next one!
I always love Rachael Johns' characters. She creates such warm and vivid small town communities that I feel like I know the townsfolk personally. Having characters I truly care about is what makes a book worth reading for me and on this point Ms Johns delivers in spades.
Outback Blaze has a suspense element to it. I must admit to not being a regular reader of romantic suspense, but I did really enjoy the plot in this novel. The arson aspect of the plot was handled well and I didn't have a clue who the culprit was until the moment of reveal.
Ruby and Drew's romance was nicely developed. Yet again the author has created a gorgeous hero to fall in love with!
I also want to mention my two favourite supporting cast members in this book, Roxie and Riley - Ruby's horses! Being a horse lover I loved the part the horses played in this book.
Overall a fantastic read! (Can't wait for Outback Ghost!)
I always love Rachael Johns' characters. She creates such warm and vivid small town communities that I feel like I know the townsfolk personally. Having characters I truly care about is what makes a book worth reading for me and on this point Ms Johns delivers in spades.
Outback Blaze has a suspense element to it. I must admit to not being a regular reader of romantic suspense, but I did really enjoy the plot in this novel. The arson aspect of the plot was handled well and I didn't have a clue who the culprit was until the moment of reveal.
Ruby and Drew's romance was nicely developed. Yet again the author has created a gorgeous hero to fall in love with!
I also want to mention my two favourite supporting cast members in this book, Roxie and Riley - Ruby's horses! Being a horse lover I loved the part the horses played in this book.
Overall a fantastic read! (Can't wait for Outback Ghost!)
October 14, 2014
What a great book to while away the hours!
I wasn't a huge fan of Ruby when we first met her in Outback Dreams, but seeing inside her head, hearing her story, made me like and appreciate her a lot more. And as for Drew? Well, what's not to love?
One of the things I love most about the Bunyip Bay novels is how they perfectly capture that small town feel and atmosphere. The whole having no secrets, the gossip where the rest of the town knows everything before the people involved do, but also the comraderie of everyone pitching it to help and support each other. Rachael Johns captures it so perfectly!
Reall, there's no better way to spend the day than curled up with a good book, and this quite simply, is a good book. Definitely worth checking out! And the best thing about Bunyip Bay is that each book is a whole story in it's own right. You don't need to have read Outback Dreams to enjoy or appreciate Outback Blaze, and I suspect the same will be true when I read Outback Ghost.
I wasn't a huge fan of Ruby when we first met her in Outback Dreams, but seeing inside her head, hearing her story, made me like and appreciate her a lot more. And as for Drew? Well, what's not to love?
One of the things I love most about the Bunyip Bay novels is how they perfectly capture that small town feel and atmosphere. The whole having no secrets, the gossip where the rest of the town knows everything before the people involved do, but also the comraderie of everyone pitching it to help and support each other. Rachael Johns captures it so perfectly!
Reall, there's no better way to spend the day than curled up with a good book, and this quite simply, is a good book. Definitely worth checking out! And the best thing about Bunyip Bay is that each book is a whole story in it's own right. You don't need to have read Outback Dreams to enjoy or appreciate Outback Blaze, and I suspect the same will be true when I read Outback Ghost.
July 12, 2014
Actual rating: 4.5 stars
“Ruby, if I told you exactly what I wanted to do it’d ruin the surprise, but bottom line, I want to have hot, passionate, mindblowing, off-the-radar sex with you.”
Outback Blaze is a charming and suspenseful romance set in beautiful Bunyip Bay, Australia, where the beaches are to die for and the people are unforgettable.
It was nice to be back in Bunyip Bay. I really enjoyed book one, Outback Dreams, and couldn’t wait this time to learn more about Ruby’s past and about enigmatic Constable Drew. I thought the writing style was straight-forward and easy to read again while maintaining interesting dialogue and deep emotional connections.
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“Ruby, if I told you exactly what I wanted to do it’d ruin the surprise, but bottom line, I want to have hot, passionate, mindblowing, off-the-radar sex with you.”
Outback Blaze is a charming and suspenseful romance set in beautiful Bunyip Bay, Australia, where the beaches are to die for and the people are unforgettable.
It was nice to be back in Bunyip Bay. I really enjoyed book one, Outback Dreams, and couldn’t wait this time to learn more about Ruby’s past and about enigmatic Constable Drew. I thought the writing style was straight-forward and easy to read again while maintaining interesting dialogue and deep emotional connections.
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May 4, 2014
This is a fantastic story I was really looking forward to Drew and Ruby's story and I was not disappointed this one has everything in it suspense secrets danger and a very sensual and wonderful journey to a HEA for Drew and Ruby. Being back in Bunyip Bay was very enjoyable re visiting the characters from the previous story this is a small town where everyone knows everyone and when a fire destroys a shop and the finger is pointed at the wrong people Drew one of the local policeman is determined to get to the bottom of it and along the way show Ruby how good she is don't miss this one I loved it.
October 15, 2014
Oh my what an awesome book...could not put it down...so addictive. Best book I've read in ages! I wasn't much of a fan of Ruby in 'Outback Dreams' but I loved her character in this book once you got to know her. As for Drew? What's not to love about a sexy male (and not to mention kind) British cop in uniform and a secret of his own as well. As for Ryan being gay, totally didn't see that one coming!! Only complaint is how can one small country town have so many good looking and kind caring males in it? So not fair! Looks like I won't be getting anything else done for awhile yet as 'Outback Ghost' is next on my reading list. Love your books Rachael! :)
April 22, 2014
I can't say how much I enjoyed reading this book, maybe a little bias seeing as I was very very very lucky to have a photo of the sunsetting over our farm that I took, used as the back ground on this books cover, but Rach you have done it again! I fell in loved with the charcters laughed with them and even shed a tear at times, and now the count down begins to when I get to read Outback Ghost! can't wait to see what the people of Bunyip Bay will get up to in the third book, I am sure without a doubt it will be just as gripping and amazing as the first two books.
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