Back in Calingarry Crossing to sell the family pub, Maggie Lindeman has no idea a perfect storm is heading her way until her past and present collide with the unexpected. Maggie once had a crush on Dan Ireland, now a work-weary police crash investigator, still hell-bent on punishing himself for his misspent youth. Dan has ample reason for not going home to Calingarry Crossing for the school reunion, but one very good reason why he should. Maggie is dealing with a restless seventeen-year-old son, a father with dementia, a fame-obsessed musician husband, a dwindling bank account and a country pub that just won’t sell.
What a Great read . Great story line, and once hooked I hung out for the next bit of “me time” to continue reading . I loved the way Jenn J McLeod wrote this novel as it really made me feel connected to the characters and the events that unfolded throughout. I would definitely recommend Simmering Season to others and have actually started passing it around to my Book Club Mums – and it has also prompted me read more from this author .
I have to say I thoroughly enjoyed this book, from the moment I picked it up it had me hooked. I thought it was a great story admittedly it was a bit slow to start but it got there in the end, a great novel about second chances in my opinion. After googling the author have just purchased House For All Seasons. So thanks so much MoMs for giving me the pleasure of reviewing this book. Have passed onto my Mum also, hope she and everyone else that does read Simmering Season enjoys it as much as me. 🙂
great book. i thought maggie was a great character, she stands up for what she thinks is right.
this book has some sad parts and some twists and turns i didnt expect.
the house guest certainly brings along some challenges and something else maggie wouldnt of expected.
I really liked the spark maggie has with dan and how much fun they have together.
great book i really enjoyed reading it 😉 thanks so much 🙂
FINAL REVIEW FOR SIMMERING SEASON BY JENN J MCLEOD
The plot keeps you on your toes the whole way through. With so many secrets popping up from chapter to chapter. Maggie enduring many up and downs with finding out about her son’s sexuality. The death of her father, the break up of her marriage and her new rekindled relationship with Dan.
You will be on the edge of your seat, not been able to put the book down.
Enjoy the late night reading you won’t be disappointed.
Half way through the book and I am really loving the country setting and characters. Having to return to the hotel was good for Maggie allowing her spend time reflecting and finding herself again. I am from a small country town and can relate to the busyness of the local hotel, and it being a great place for socialising…. can’t wait to finish this book!
Approaching chapter 16 the plot finally thickens,
Maggie has her hands full with trying to sell her fathers pub in her childhood town of Carlingarry Crossing which isn’t doing well at all, a teenage son who wants to go back to Sydney and a husband who is still in Sydney and she just realising her marriage may be in trouble and a father with dementia.
Fiona has moved in with Maggie and Noah causing some rift between mother and son. I’m sure there is a lot more hiding in the past with Fiona’s mother, grandmother,
Maggie and Dan which I’m hoping to find out with the school reunion coming up.
Starting to get to the stage where I don’t want to put the book down (intriguing).
This is one of those books that just sucks you right in and you can’t put down. While reading this book I found myself laughing and crying along with the characters. The relationships and situations written about are believe able and a true reflection on how life really is. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and high recommend it.
After receiving this book I started reading immediately – and from the start was drawn in. Jenn writes with such honesty and this heart wrenching story could feel close at home to many. Her magnificent character portrayals tug at your heart strings and take you on an emotional roller coaster. I have not yet finished reading – but will be sure to post another review once I have completed this wonderful piece of Australian literature.
SIMMERING SEASON by Jenn J McLeod is a fabulous book. It is like reading about people you know, that’s how realistic the characters and settings are. Jenn J McLeod is a great author and I love reading her books. Her novels have a flavour that is uniquely Australian and she has a flare of making the reader feel as though they are there, part of the story.
I am a fan of Jenn McLeod books and Simmering Season was a great read. I love that its set in a small rural community and the characters are believable and intriguing. I found it hard to put down the book once I started and felt that as a reader I could relate / connect with the characters created in the novel. I think reading previous books of her make it easier to place the characters.
After reading the review’s this was on the to buy list,I have finished this book now and I really loved Jenn McLeods style of writing it was a great easy to read Australian story. This story sucked me and I could not get out. Thankful we were on holidays worth reading to laugh along with the characters. Great story line and I am looking forward to reading more
This is one of those books that just sucks you right in and you can’t put down. While reading this book I found myself laughing and crying along with the characters. The relationships and situations written about are believe able and a true reflection on how life really is. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and high recommend it.
I have finished this book now and I really loved Jenn McLeods style of writing it was a great easy to read Australian story. Would I read other novels by this author? Yes most certainly! A really great book to read while relaxing on holidays.
What a Great read . Great story line, and once hooked I hung out for the next bit of “me time” to continue reading . I loved the way Jenn J McLeod wrote this novel as it really made me feel connected to the characters and the events that unfolded throughout. I would definitely recommend Simmering Season to others and have actually started passing it around to my Book Club Mums – and it has also prompted me read more from this author .
Interesting, compelling read that I really enjoyed.
Despite being a lover of reading, being a busy mum of 2 had meant it had been a long time since I read a book. Simmering Season captured my imagination and really allowed me to get hooked on the story and I found it hard to put down. Instead of watching TV once my girls were in bed I found myself reaching for Simmering Season. I was a heartwarming story with a nice think, intertwining plot and it has left me wanting to read more from Jenn J McLeod. I highly recommend this book.
Finally finished this book! enjoyed it more and more as i continued and found it too be an interesting break from studies. A story about the trials and tribulations of women’s lives and the events that occur which leave us in awe and confusion 🙂 A book that many would be able to relate too. 🙂
Enjoyable read with some really likeable characters.
Heart-warming tale that examines the complex relationships we all experience through the course of our lives, and the ups and downs of life in small country town. Throw in an impending storm (figuratively and literally), death, second chances, misplaced loyalty, a bit of romance and a few life lessons, and you have a solid and enjoyable read.
This reads like a prime time soap opera the characters are fleshed well enough but without reading the previous book there seem to be a bit of history missing . Some characters seem to fit the setting well enough . Over all it was a decent read ,not the normal sort of book I would read but saying that I enjoyed it for that reason .i would recommend it to a friend ,it is already on its way for my daughter to read.
A sweet dramatic tale which is good for the ladies :)
I received this book to review and found it had a bit of a slow start and a bit sporadic but once you get to know the first person character better the story gets more and more interesting, the drama that unfolds in a small town community and Maggie’s life are a ”cant put this book down” fashion accessory. I do enjoy a variety of genres and this one was good for girly time out in the bath or on the verandah for me 🙂
I have to say I thoroughly enjoyed this book, from the moment I picked it up it had me hooked. I thought it was a great story admittedly it was a bit slow to start but it got there in the end, a great novel about second chances in my opinion. After googling the author have just purchased House For All Seasons. So thanks so much MoMs for giving me the pleasure of reviewing this book. Have passed onto my Mum also, hope she and everyone else that does read Simmering Season enjoys it as much as me. 🙂
I enjoyed this book and would recomend it to anyone who would like a easy, interesting and relatable read. It was a bit slow at first but after the characters developed I found it thoroughly enjoyable
Another wonderful book by Jenn J McLeod. Took me three days to finish, once I had started it was not easy to stop. Simmering Seasons feels very familiar and close to home. It’s a heartfelt and poweful story about lifes struggles, our ups and downs. It’s very easy to relate to and many of the familiar moments had me in tears quite a few times. I would highly recommend this book to my family and friends. It’s may not be as good as her previous book, but it’s still quite wonderful. Jenn is one brilliant Australian author and I can’t wait for the next book from her.
FINAL REVIEW FOR SIMMERING SEASON BY JENN J MCLEOD
The plot keeps you on your toes the whole way through. With so many secrets popping up from chapter to chapter. Maggie enduring many up and downs with finding out about her son’s sexuality. The death of her father, the break up of her marriage and her new rekindled relationship with Dan.
You will be on the edge of your seat, not been able to put the book down.
Enjoy the late night reading you won’t be disappointed.
I found it hard at first to understand who was who & what was going on but after a couple more chapters I really started to get into it. I’m half way through it as finding the time has been difficult but I do have a bit more now that I’m home more. Magpie is a great character, we all need alone time. I’m.interested to see what eventuates.:)
I don’t mind a good read, I’m half way through it but I’m finding the book a bit slow. I don’t mind the story line. It’s written beautifully but I feel that it needs to pick up a lot earlier in the book for it to attract the reader. Can’t wait to see what happens next.
Its been awhile since I’ve actually read a physical book, as these days I read books on my iPad its been a nice change. I’ve only recently been able to sit down and really sink my teeth into it, I must say thought I’m loving it so far its really got me hooked. Can’t wait till tonight and I can pick it up again.
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‘They Taste Amazing, I’ll Definitely Be Stocking Up Again’
Having three young kids, juggling their commitments and her own as a school teacher means Kristie Young’s days revolve around snacking on-the-go. And she admits she’s not always reaching for the best options! So she was thrilled to try out new Nice & Natural Deluxe Protein Bars and says she’ll be restocking next time she’s shopping.
Kristie is right in the middle of one her busiest seasons of life – juggling three kids (two at school), a job, partner and household. But this year, she’s made a commitment to herself.
“I’m always running around. Always a million things on my to do list, but wouldn’t have it any other way.” Kristie told Mouths of Mums.
“But I’m turning 40 this year and I thought I really need to start prioritising myself, because for the last seven years, I’ve been pregnant, breastfeeding, busy with the kids, I have not looked after myself at all.
“So this year, I’m really starting to get back into my own fitness journey, health journey, and eating a lot better and starting to eat more regularly and eat more protein filled meals and snacks that will fill me up. So I’m not just reaching for sugary snacks, especially around that afternoon, where I’m getting tired from being awake with the baby all night and just finding myself reaching for junk in the cupboard.”
A self-confessed snacker, Kristie says her snacking habit is worse during school holidays when she’s constantly making in-between meals for the kids. So she decided to give Nice & Natural Deluxe Protein Bars a try, as part of the Mouths of Mums review team.
“They were actually filling. I like that they had eight grams of protein, because that’s something that I’m really trying to increase this year, having more protein. And they taste amazing, which is obviously great and I like that they have chocolate, because normally in the afternoon, I’m reaching for something sugary, something chocolatey, and this way I know I’m getting that protein hit as well. So they’re a bit more filling.
“They help me last until dinner time without reaching for all these other little snacks in between.”
“I also like that they’re easy to take out and about. So when I’m doing kinder drop off, dancing. I always pack snacks and food for the kids and forget myself. It’s been good put myself first and have something in the bag and on the go for me too.”
Nice & Natural Deluxe Protein Bars not only satisfy those constant cravings throughout the day, they’re temptingly tasty. With layers of nuts and soy crisps and enveloped in milk or dark chocolate, it’s every sweet-tooth’s dream.
“I’ve tried quite a few different protein bars, and some of them I don’t like the aftertaste or the textures too hard. Whereas I found this had a nice amount of crunch, the flavour was really nice, and the perfect amount of chocolate too.”
With three delectable flavours to choose from, Nice & Natural Deluxe Protein Bars make mum me-time an indulgent treat, with no artificial flavours or colours:
Salted Caramel, Cashew & Choc: Crunchy cashews, peanuts and soy crisps, topped with a delicious caramel layer and coated in rich milk choc.
Cookies & Cream Dark Choc: Crunchy peanuts and soy crisps, topped with a delicious cream layer and coated in rich dark choc.
Almond & Double Choc: Crunchy almonds, peanuts and soy crisps, topped with a delicious white choc layer and coated in rich milk choc.
How amazing do these flavours sound?! Kristie tried a couple of the flavours, and for her the Salted Caramel, Cashew & Choc was an absolute standout!
“I’ve got the Almond & Double Choc, which I love and Salted Caramel, Cashew & Choc. And at first I thought this one might be too sweet with the salted caramel, but it’s actually not. It’s perfect, the perfect balance. Probably my favourite!’
“They’re so good for having the desk draw at work, those little snacks. I’m not just reaching for sugary rubbish. I know they’ve got protein, especially in the afternoon, when I am running low on energy from being kept awake all night. It’s good to have these in the drawer and just have one each day, which I’m enjoying, something to look forward to at work.
“I’m putting them on the shopping list, so when I run out of these, I’m off to get some more for myself. My partner tried them, and he’s approved them. He wants some too. I said he can’t have my stash, so I know I’ll definitely be stocking up again at the supermarket. I’m recommending them and really enjoying them.”
Purchase Nice & Natural Deluxe Protein Bars from Woolworths and Coles.
This Real Story was provided as part of a paid sponsorship opportunity. Kristie was chosen to share her story because she was sent out and tried Nice & Natural Deluxe Protein Bars and genuinely loved them!
I rarely snack throughout the day and have an aversion to sweet things, anyway, so would not have tried these bars off my own bat. It is good to hear these reviews and that everyone liked them, but I still doubt I would buy a pack of 5 bars in case I didn’t like the sweetness of them. I avoid cakes when going out to coffee as well.
I’ve tried these too and found them filling and satisfying . They give me that chocolate fix that I crave but are small portions. I am trying to be healthier from now on too. Swimming every day and stopping the snacking. When I do have one of these it is planned.
Ive always l9ved the nice and natural bars and buy them quite often but I’m yet to try the deluxe protein bars. After reading this review and the comments ill definitely bevtrying them out as they sound delicious. I’m a bit of a sucker for caramel and chocolate so I know which ones ill be trying first!
These bars were soo good! I was hesitant thinking the added protein would make this taste funny or have a weird flavour but they taste amazing and are so addictive! I really enjoyed the cookies & cream flavour. They are super convenient to take on the go and are more filling!
It is always so great to hear and read other mum reviews of products. I love these muesli bars, they are so delicious and perfect to keep in your handbag or laptop bag for a snack at work or if you are on the go. This brand of muesli bars is one of my favourites as they have lots of flavour.
I trust your judgement Kristie so these will be put on my shopping list for my next trip for groceries. My son runs his own shop and he is always having muesli bars. I think these ones will be so much better for him health wise as well as being tasty.
Thank you for sharing your review with us Kristie, it’s nice that your experience was such a positive one. My daughter is very much into protein rich foods currently (together with going to the gym) and I believe she has tried these bars as well. However the bars have not such high star rating and personally I consider them as not so healthy
Thank you Kristie for a very relatable and down to earth review with a lot of good detail. I found similar features with the bars when I reviewed them. The bars are not too hard and they are not too sweet which is terrific in a protein bar. These bars are now on our shopping list.
I was lucky enough to also receive Nice & Natural Deluxe Protein bars to taste and review. I was surprised with the taste and the texture of the bars. Salted caramel, cashew and choc is my favorite flavour and one of these bars with a cuppa for morning or afternoon tea is simply so satisfying.
7:21 pm
Simmering Season heated up this winters chill
11:54 pm
Thoroughly Enjoyed
2:13 pm
Loved it
9:30 pm
11:30 am
FINAL REVIEW FOR SIMMERING SEASON BY JENN J MCLEOD
6:00 pm
first review for Simmering season
5:17 pm
REVIEW ON SIMMERING SEASON BY JENN J MCLEOD
1:46 pm
sounds awesome and looks great
5:17 pm
I thoroughly enjoyed this book.
10:55 am
Magnificent read - Captivated from the start!
1:46 pm
sounds awesome and looks great
10:17 pm
Realistic characters and settings
8:45 am
Captivating
11:21 am
Great holiday read
5:17 pm
I thoroughly enjoyed this book.
11:13 pm
Simmering Season
7:21 pm
Simmering Season heated up this winters chill
1:38 pm
Interesting, compelling read that I really enjoyed.
11:48 am
Descriptive and Imaginative Writing :)
10:42 am
Enjoyable read with some really likeable characters.
5:27 pm
Simmering season lives up to its title
7:38 am
A sweet dramatic tale which is good for the ladies :)
11:54 pm
Thoroughly Enjoyed
5:36 pm
Enjoyable read.
11:58 am
Took me three days to finish this wonderful book.
2:13 pm
Loved it
11:30 am
FINAL REVIEW FOR SIMMERING SEASON BY JENN J MCLEOD
10:36 pm
Great so far
11:12 am
It's ok
9:56 pm
I'm Hooked
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