ARC Review: The Reluctant Farm-her by Laurelle Cousins

Laurelle Cousins’ The Reluctant Farm-her drew me in from the very first page and didn’t let go until the end. This is more than just a love story—it’s about grief, resilience, and finding the courage to move forward.

Charlotte Redding arrives back at her family’s merino station determined to close the door on the past. She’s lost too much to Sheepwash Creek to ever imagine a future there. But her plans quickly unravel when she crosses paths with Fraser Pierce, her former love and neighbour, who has carried feelings for her since they were teenagers. Their reunion is complicated, tender, and full of tension, set against the backdrop of old rivalries and unhealed wounds.

What I loved most is Charlotte herself. She’s strong without being hardened, vulnerable without being weak. Fraser is a perfect balance for her—steady, patient, and willing to risk his heart again. The chemistry between them builds naturally, and the layers of mystery surrounding her family’s past add depth to their story.

The rural Victorian setting is beautifully drawn—wool sheds, open paddocks, and the history tied into the land bring the story alive. It feels authentic and distinctly Australian, which made me love it all the more.

This is an unforgettable rural romance that ticks every box: heartfelt characters, genuine emotion, a touch of intrigue, and a happy ending that feels hard-earned and well deserved.