REVIEW
Rural Romance fiction is a smaller part of my library but I do have a few favourite authors in the genre. I had never read any of Ms Quinn’s work before so was not sure what to expect. It did not take long once entering the story, to really enjoy the journey. The two main characters certainly are likeable—even with their flaws. Also, the author’s descriptions are both direct and subtle and quite appealing with many clever analogies. But what impressed me the most was how she addressed some heavy topics such as cyberbullying and its long term effects on everyday life and relationships.
Hannah Cody is the victim of a cruel prank experienced in her college years. It has deeply scarred this woman and smashed her confidence. She leaves her medical studies in Sydney and moves to a small regional area and switches to veterinary science to become a vet. She feels safer working with animals. And she is good with them as well. Over the next ten years she remains in Hanrahan, never leaving it. Her shrunk down protected life, though, gets challenged when Tom Krauss, a naval analyst, arrives back home to care for his ill father. He is a long-time friend of her brother and she grew up around him and his harmless antics. His childhood nickname for her ‘brat’ seems to have carried over to her adult years. Once meeting up with Tom, Hannah begins to feel something unexpected. And her steadfast motto to ‘not do feelings’ or ‘romance’ turns on its head. Soon she is faced with changing her thinking.
But Tom has his own issues. His return home is two-fold. Not only has he come back to care for his very ill father but he is dealing with a dangerous injury. Yet he keeps this secret to himself and it dictates all his actions. It even challenges his true feelings for Hannah. This emotional battle causes havoc in his life but he must appear uncaring to discourage Hannah’s interest in him. He wants her to obtain everything she desires from a relationship. And he knows he cannot provide those things. Time is ticking for him and he must make some difficult decisions. One being whether to have a surgery that could free or destroy him.
The author addresses health and injury issues exceptionally well, through Tom and his father but also bullying and agoraphobia through Hannah. These characters face realistic challenges and I believe MS Quinn provides a solid delivery.
One of the lessons in this story is the importance of honesty in a relationship. The initial lack of it created as much pain for Hannah as the cyber-attack. Of course, this obstacle gets stumbled over constantly. Until resolved, neither of them (Hannah or Tom) can move forward. A crisis must happen and it does before the struggle can end.
The two main characters who provide their viewpoints are two damaged humans, in different ways. Hannah is afraid to make a move relationship-wise for it could cause a major emotional meltdown. Tom is afraid to make a choice concerning surgery. There is fear that the worst could happen. In the end, the risk is high for both. But there is one healing force or saving grace for each of them: love. Love that does not judge. Love that is patient, kind and supportive through thick and thin.
I must add I found Hannah and her Skyjack horse relationship beautiful. Having had one of these gorgeous animals myself in the past, I know how special the connection between horse and rider can be. I also enjoyed learning more about campdrafting: a unique Australia sport where horse and rider must ‘cut out’ one beast from the cattle in the yard or camp. A competition that certainly takes some skill and teamwork!
The Snowy Mountain region setting is perfect for this story and I know a number of the spots mentioned. There are lots of good features in A Home Among The Snow Gums. It is an enjoyable read that held my interest to the last page. The ending is a positive one and that in itself is rewarding. After watching Hannah and Tom deal with their traumas and finally achieve what they both desire—left me feeling uplifted. I certainly recommend it. 5 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thanks to HQ Australia and Netgalley for my review copy.
