By the Billabong

Erin O’Byrne returns to Ceann Mara, her family’s remote property on the Darling River, seeking peace after a potential marital breakup. Camping by the tranquil billabong, she hopes the solitude of the Australian bush will help her heal. While exploring the land, Erin discovers a long-lost memorial to Gilbert O’Byrne, her great-uncle lost in World War I. Her sister, Cat, and father, Tom, who have been researching the family’s history, are thrilled by the find and eager to uncover its secrets. But Erin’s journey takes an unexpected turn when reclusive Miles McKenzie sets up camp beside her.Though initially guarded, she and Miles gradually develop a friendship that sparks an attraction. Her family, however, worries that she’s vulnerable, questioning whether she can truly trust Miles. As Tom and Cat unearth the poignant love story of Gilbert and Matilda-forced apart by war and bound by secrets that echoed through generations-Erin finds herself walking a path that mirrors her great-aunt’s. Both women faced impossible choices about trust, truth, and the courage to fight for love.While Matilda guarded her heart’s deepest secret beside the same billabong a century ago, Erin must decide whether to follow her heart-or listen to the doubts that surround her.But unlike Matilda, who faced her struggles alone, Erin will discover that some family bonds can transcend even time itself..