The Ties that Bind by Lexi Landsman

Jade stays to defend her beloved olive plantation in country Victoria even though her grandmother and father leave.  She has to eventually run for her life and almost dies but a handsome young firefighter saves her.  He helps her rebuild the property and recover her shattered life, but Jade is also troubled by family secrets.  Why did her mother leave her? Why did her grandmother hate her mother so much?

Courtney and David live in Miami, on the other side of the world.  When their wonderful son is afflicted by an extremely dangerous form of leukemia, Courtney, has to make tough decisions.  Courtney, who was adopted, is also troubled by secrets, especially when when she starts looking for the truth about her family.

How do these two stories intertwine?

This is a riveting tale about the importance of family with likeable characters and a moving love story.  The effects of the terrible fire in Victoria are vividly described and the beauty of the Australian countryside springs to life with Landsman's exquisite writing. I did find both stories rather harrowing, however.

I will certainly be looking out for more novels by Lexi Landsman.

I received this free ebook from Net Galley in exchange for an honest review.