Red Dirt Duchess...Review

About the book: 
When English society playboy Jonathan Hartley-Huntley is sent to outback Australia after a disastrous affair with his editor, all he wants is to take a few pictures, do a quick interview and get back to his usual life of luxury as soon as possible. Until he meets his host, the irresistible Charlie Hughes, and suddenly the back of beyond is a lot more appealing.

Running the pub is a labour of love for Charlie and she has no desire to ever leave the tiny town of Bindundilly. That is, until Jon discovers an old painting that raises questions about both their lives. Charlie impulsively decides to follow him to London, and as the feelings between them begin to deepen, she starts to wonder if there's more to life than the pub. But at Jon's family home, the magnificent Hartley Hall, they become acutely aware of the differences between them, and it soon seems clear they have no future together – especially if Jon's mother has her way.

The Australian outback meets stiff British aristocracy. When Jonathan is sent to Australia to cover a story, he doesn't anticipate meeting the charming Charlie Hughes. Charlie loves her life running a pub in Australia. Still she connects with Jon and impulsively follows him to England. Upon meeting his stiff, unwelcoming family, she's certain there is no future for them, but events soon unfold and Charlie discovers secrets about her parents and a life she never expected.

This was a book that caught my eye on Netgalley and the premise sounded promising. I'm not familiar with the author, but I love books set in Australia and England. It was a bit of a slow start, but I enjoyed Jon and Charlie and found their characters surprisingly well developed. The art aspect was fascinating as was the glimpse inside old, established British families trying to find their way in modern England.

The book isn't long and is easily read in one or two sittings. It's light and would be a perfect beach read. Sometimes you just need a book you can escape with.

There is mildly explicit non-marital intimacy.

Thank to the publisher and Netgalley for the opportunity to review this book. You can learn more about Louise Reynolds here. You can purchase your own copy Red Dirt Duchess.

Read 9/14

* * *
3/5 Stars