Publication date: November 5th 2024

Genres: Adult, Contemporary, Romance

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.

Excerpt

“I think I’ve found your competition for the bouquet.” Jack’s warm breath tickled the fine hairs on Sophie’s neck as he leaned closer.

Her heart raced at the sensation, but she kept her eyes on Dale and Camille. “Wrong again.”

“Not interested in walking down the aisle yourself?” He sounded surprised. “I thought things had been pretty serious with you and Mason?”

She spun back to him. How did he know about her ex? Realisation quickly dawned on her. “Laura told you.”

“We talk. Like I said, I’ve missed you, Soph.”

She caught a sadness in his eyes that mirrored her own feelings. Unable to hold his stare, she glanced back over his shoulder again, the tip of her nose just missing his. “That’s not an excuse to stick your nose in my personal business.”

“Why did you break up with him?” It was only a whisper.

Sophie risked a glance his way. Prickles of excitement flashed through her at his nearness. Yet she didn’t want to tell him the truth. “What’s that got to do with anything?”

Jack shrugged half-heartedly. “I didn’t believe what Laura told me.”

The breeze shifted and Sophie caught the sharpness of his cologne, the citrus of his shampoo. It was an addictive scent. She licked her lips. “Mason and I just had different priorities,” she explained firmly.

“That’s what Laura said.” He sounded unconvinced.

And he wasn’t you, Sophie thought, hoping that wasn’t written all over her face.

As the stirring song reached a crescendo, she found her gaze tangled in his, trying to decipher his thoughts. It wasn’t until Jack raised his hand and swiped a coarse fingertip lightly across her cheek that the spell broke.

“Eyelash,” he said huskily.

Sophie blinked several times and pulled away. What was she doing? This was still the same boy who broke her heart. She couldn’t just allow herself to be lured back under his spell. He wasn’t to be trusted. None of the Garlands were.

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About the Author

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:

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