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Runaway Brides #3
Bride of the High Country
Kaki Warner’s newest novel in the series about unlikely brides who make their way west—and find love where they least expect it…
Margaret Hamilton escaped the Irish slums of Five Points as the ward of a wealthy Manhattan widow, but only marriage can make her future secure. Railroad mogul Doyle Kerrigan needs a well-connected wife. It seems a perfect match...until a shocking revelation sends her fleeing from the wedding reception.
Desperate to make a fresh start, Margaret takes on a new identity and heads West, finally stopping in Heartbreak Creek, Colorado, a dying mining town of little interest to anyone. Here, she finds new purpose, beloved friends to replace the family she’s lost, and a home at last.
But two men from Margaret’s past are on her trail. One is seeking vengeance, the other truth. When they both arrive in Heartbreak Creek, she must choose between the town she has come to love, and the man who might finally capture her heart….
Margaret Hamilton escaped the Irish slums of Five Points as the ward of a wealthy Manhattan widow, but only marriage can make her future secure. Railroad mogul Doyle Kerrigan needs a well-connected wife. It seems a perfect match...until a shocking revelation sends her fleeing from the wedding reception.
Desperate to make a fresh start, Margaret takes on a new identity and heads West, finally stopping in Heartbreak Creek, Colorado, a dying mining town of little interest to anyone. Here, she finds new purpose, beloved friends to replace the family she’s lost, and a home at last.
But two men from Margaret’s past are on her trail. One is seeking vengeance, the other truth. When they both arrive in Heartbreak Creek, she must choose between the town she has come to love, and the man who might finally capture her heart….
400 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2012
35 people are currently reading
356 people want to read
About the author
Kaki Warner
20 books188 followersKaki Warner is an award-winning author and long time resident of the Pacific Northwest. Although she now lives on the eastern slopes of the Cascade Mountains in Washington State, Kaki actually grew up in the Southwest and is a proud graduate of the University of Texas. Her years spent riding horses and enjoying the expansive views of Texas became the Historical Romance Author, Kaki Warner inspiration for the backdrop of her novels - the wide-open spaces of historic New Mexico Territory.
Several years ago after their two children had left for college, Kaki and her husband, Joe, moved from the city to their hilltop cabin overlooking the scenic Methow Valley. Kaki now spends her time gardening, hiking, reading, writing, and soaking in the view from the deck with her husband and floppy-eared hound dog.
Several years ago after their two children had left for college, Kaki and her husband, Joe, moved from the city to their hilltop cabin overlooking the scenic Methow Valley. Kaki now spends her time gardening, hiking, reading, writing, and soaking in the view from the deck with her husband and floppy-eared hound dog.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 59 reviews
April 26, 2020
Lucinda Hathaway showed up in Heartbreak Creek on a train with Maddie Wallace, toting a lot of money and secrets. After her new friends found happiness there, she decided to stay, invest in the hotel and set her sights on revitalizing the entire town. But who was she and where did she come from? This is her backstory, leading up to her arrival in Heartbreak Creek and then beyond.
I knew Lucinda’s story would be intriguing but was unprepared for the tragedy of her early life. It explained why she had such a tough veneer that was actually beyond skin deep. The first half of the book was hard to put down as the details weren’t spared in chronicling her journey from New York City to the Colorado Territory. It was exciting, dangerous and suspenseful. Her relationship with Tait Ryland, the man tasked with finding and returning her to New York, was complicated and romantic. However, the second half of the story covered old territory, events that occurred in the first two books but rehashed here unnecessarily as Lucinda’s point of view didn’t add much.
I enjoyed the story but wish more time was devoted to new events in the second half. I loved the character and thought she was exceptionally designed and developed. I’ve enjoyed this series and was sorry to see it end until I learned it’s continued in a spinoff. It will be fun to return to Heartbreak Creek and the characters I came to care about.
I knew Lucinda’s story would be intriguing but was unprepared for the tragedy of her early life. It explained why she had such a tough veneer that was actually beyond skin deep. The first half of the book was hard to put down as the details weren’t spared in chronicling her journey from New York City to the Colorado Territory. It was exciting, dangerous and suspenseful. Her relationship with Tait Ryland, the man tasked with finding and returning her to New York, was complicated and romantic. However, the second half of the story covered old territory, events that occurred in the first two books but rehashed here unnecessarily as Lucinda’s point of view didn’t add much.
I enjoyed the story but wish more time was devoted to new events in the second half. I loved the character and thought she was exceptionally designed and developed. I’ve enjoyed this series and was sorry to see it end until I learned it’s continued in a spinoff. It will be fun to return to Heartbreak Creek and the characters I came to care about.
April 18, 2020
Oh how I've enjoyed this 3 book series! The first two books are among my historical western romance favorites. So needless to say, I started Bride of the High Country, book 3, with high expectations. Just like the others, it started off with a bang! I looked forward to learning more about Margaret and rehashing life with other favorites. However, about halfway through this one, I began to feel like I was rereading parts of the first two books. So much of this book repeats past history that I began to loose interest. I truly feel that too little time is spent building the relationship and romance between these two main characters - to the point that I feel they got shorted. And in the end, everything felt rushed - a hurried attempt to close several series plotlines. I am disappointed that Thomas and Pru's story is quickly closed in the final chapter. This couple deserved their own book in my opinion. So - this is an awesome series. I don't regret a minute that I spent reading it and can highly recommend it to others. I just wish book 3 had lived up to the previous books.
July 14, 2015
I have to admit to have mixed feelings before reading this book, the third one in the Runaway Brides series. I loved the first book but was not impressed with the second one. The heroine of the third book, beautiful and mysterious Lucinda, intrigued me right from the start of the series and I wanted to find her secrets. I also needed a closure on some of the unfinished “business” from previous stories. The first half of the book is Lucinda’s story before she came to Heartbreak Creek, Colorado. This was my favorite part of the whole series. Intense, moving, emotional, I simply couldn’t put it down. This was a story of one woman survival against all odds and of her courage and perseverance. The second part, where we meet all familiar inhabitants of Heartbreak Creek, was not as impressive. It overlaps with the first two books as it describes many of the same events but from Lucinda’s prospective.
I would definitely be on the lookout for the author’s other books.
I would definitely be on the lookout for the author’s other books.
October 17, 2012
So many things come to my mind after finishing BRIDE OF THE HIGH COUNTRY. This is the third book in the 'Runaway Brides' trilogy and a necessary ending. I needed Lucinda's story so I could have closure on this 'family' of lovable strong women. Unfortunately it did not meet my high expectations that I found with the first two books: Heartbreak Creek, #1 and Colorado Dawn, #2.
Be aware that this is NOT a stand-alone book. You will need to read the first two stories to understand what is going on.
Lucinda Hathaway, as we know, was running from a groom when she met Maddie, Edwina and Pru. What we were left to guess was why? What happened to lead up to her settling in Heartbreak Creek? 'Luce' was reserved yet not afraid to share what she thought when necessary. Of the four ladies, I thought of her as the leader. After reading the first two books I knew she had secrets and I wanted to have some answers. I placed this book on autobuy with anticipation.
So now as to why I rated it two stars for 'OK'. This is one of those times when you'd like Amazon to allow reviewers to give half stars; I would have given it two and a half. For a little over the first half of the book it is about Lucinda BEFORE she met the other ladies. It is the story of Margaret Hamilton (Lucinda), Doyle Kerrigan (her fiancee and eventual groom) and Tait Rylander (Doyle's business partner and confidant). Lucinda was a prickly character that was willing to settle for security rather than love. I knew the minute I read about Tait's character that he was important to this story. If I share more than this I'll give away spoilers but I found out about Lucinda's past and why she was on the run.
The problem arose when she met up with Maddie. The remaining story felt, hmmm...., choppy? The best way I know how to describe it was the structure was uneven. And it was this way until the end. I am not putting the blame on Ms. Warner, I think of this as an editing issue.
It is funny because I am actually recommending this romance unless you have a friend who has read it and will tell you everything. After completing this narrative you will have answers. I only regret there was not a fourth book about Pru and Thomas. That part left me wanting.
But I am not deterred, I will read more of Ms. Warner's stories. I enjoy her style of writing. So read this book with some mild anticipation and you won't be disappointed.
Be aware that this is NOT a stand-alone book. You will need to read the first two stories to understand what is going on.
Lucinda Hathaway, as we know, was running from a groom when she met Maddie, Edwina and Pru. What we were left to guess was why? What happened to lead up to her settling in Heartbreak Creek? 'Luce' was reserved yet not afraid to share what she thought when necessary. Of the four ladies, I thought of her as the leader. After reading the first two books I knew she had secrets and I wanted to have some answers. I placed this book on autobuy with anticipation.
So now as to why I rated it two stars for 'OK'. This is one of those times when you'd like Amazon to allow reviewers to give half stars; I would have given it two and a half. For a little over the first half of the book it is about Lucinda BEFORE she met the other ladies. It is the story of Margaret Hamilton (Lucinda), Doyle Kerrigan (her fiancee and eventual groom) and Tait Rylander (Doyle's business partner and confidant). Lucinda was a prickly character that was willing to settle for security rather than love. I knew the minute I read about Tait's character that he was important to this story. If I share more than this I'll give away spoilers but I found out about Lucinda's past and why she was on the run.
The problem arose when she met up with Maddie. The remaining story felt, hmmm...., choppy? The best way I know how to describe it was the structure was uneven. And it was this way until the end. I am not putting the blame on Ms. Warner, I think of this as an editing issue.
It is funny because I am actually recommending this romance unless you have a friend who has read it and will tell you everything. After completing this narrative you will have answers. I only regret there was not a fourth book about Pru and Thomas. That part left me wanting.
But I am not deterred, I will read more of Ms. Warner's stories. I enjoy her style of writing. So read this book with some mild anticipation and you won't be disappointed.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 7, 2013
3rd in the Brides Trilogy is a Worthy Finish!
This third in the Brides trilogy (Heartbreak Creek, Colorado Dawn and Bride of the High Country), is set in 1870 in New York and Heartbreak Creek, Colorado Territory. Lucinda Hathaway, the heroine, was a character in the first two books—one of the “brides.” This fact also presented a problem for Warner in telling Lucinda’s story because we’ve already seen her in Heartbreak Creek when her tale actually begins in New York in 1855. So there’s a bit of backtracking to cover ground covered before.
Lucinda was only twelve and an Irish orphan, saved from a life of prostitution by a priest who placed her in the home of a wealthy widow, Mrs. Throckmorton (an endearing character). There she was given a new and very proper name, Margaret Hamilton, and taught to behave like a distant relation of her benefactor (who would tolerate no Irish).
Fifteen years later, against the wishes of Mrs. Throckmorton, Margaret (aka Lucinda) decides to wed Irishman Doyle Kerrigan, a wealthy railroad investor who wants to leave all things “Irish” behind and join society. To do that, Doyle wants the kind of well-born young lady like Margaret. But Margaret has never forgotten her roots or that she is really Cathleen Donovan—an orphan from the Irish slums. (Got that? Our heroine has three names.) When, at their wedding, she suddenly discovers that Doyle was a “runner,” one who preyed on his fellow Irishmen, like her father, she runs from the wedding reception. Doyle sets his partner Tait Rylander on her trail telling him to look west. Tait is an ex-bare knuckled boxer and a brilliant man turned entrepreneur who owes Doyle for having saved his life. Tait has secretly admired and desired Margaret for over a year. Lucinda and Tait end up on the same train traveling west. Once he finds her, Tait tries to do the noble thing and bring her back to his partner. Of course, she won’t go back and insists she is now “Lucinda.”
This installment in the trilogy understandably overlaps with the first two books, even having some shared dialog in places. But still, this is very much Lucinda and Tait’s story and it is a joy. As with all Warner’s stories, it is well written with dry wit, intrigue, and action as Doyle hunts his errant bride and Tait is wounded and unable to protect Lucinda from her past. Tait and Lucinda are separated as Lucinda pursues her life alone in Heartbreak Creek—and finds the family she always longed for (much of that occurred in the first two books). Of all the three brides, Lucinda is the most wily, the most intelligent and the most streetwise. I loved that Tait accepted her just as she was, though her love of argument exasperated him at times.
At the end there is a touching scene with Thomas and Pru from the earlier books. I wanted to know more about the time Pru was captured by the Indian Lone Tree, but I guess that will have to wait for a later book. Which brings me to a last point. If you liked this trilogy, you’ll want to see how it ends in the Heroes of Heartbreak Creek trilogy that comes next, starting with Behind His Blue Eyes. It’s on my to read list!
This third in the Brides trilogy (Heartbreak Creek, Colorado Dawn and Bride of the High Country), is set in 1870 in New York and Heartbreak Creek, Colorado Territory. Lucinda Hathaway, the heroine, was a character in the first two books—one of the “brides.” This fact also presented a problem for Warner in telling Lucinda’s story because we’ve already seen her in Heartbreak Creek when her tale actually begins in New York in 1855. So there’s a bit of backtracking to cover ground covered before.
Lucinda was only twelve and an Irish orphan, saved from a life of prostitution by a priest who placed her in the home of a wealthy widow, Mrs. Throckmorton (an endearing character). There she was given a new and very proper name, Margaret Hamilton, and taught to behave like a distant relation of her benefactor (who would tolerate no Irish).
Fifteen years later, against the wishes of Mrs. Throckmorton, Margaret (aka Lucinda) decides to wed Irishman Doyle Kerrigan, a wealthy railroad investor who wants to leave all things “Irish” behind and join society. To do that, Doyle wants the kind of well-born young lady like Margaret. But Margaret has never forgotten her roots or that she is really Cathleen Donovan—an orphan from the Irish slums. (Got that? Our heroine has three names.) When, at their wedding, she suddenly discovers that Doyle was a “runner,” one who preyed on his fellow Irishmen, like her father, she runs from the wedding reception. Doyle sets his partner Tait Rylander on her trail telling him to look west. Tait is an ex-bare knuckled boxer and a brilliant man turned entrepreneur who owes Doyle for having saved his life. Tait has secretly admired and desired Margaret for over a year. Lucinda and Tait end up on the same train traveling west. Once he finds her, Tait tries to do the noble thing and bring her back to his partner. Of course, she won’t go back and insists she is now “Lucinda.”
This installment in the trilogy understandably overlaps with the first two books, even having some shared dialog in places. But still, this is very much Lucinda and Tait’s story and it is a joy. As with all Warner’s stories, it is well written with dry wit, intrigue, and action as Doyle hunts his errant bride and Tait is wounded and unable to protect Lucinda from her past. Tait and Lucinda are separated as Lucinda pursues her life alone in Heartbreak Creek—and finds the family she always longed for (much of that occurred in the first two books). Of all the three brides, Lucinda is the most wily, the most intelligent and the most streetwise. I loved that Tait accepted her just as she was, though her love of argument exasperated him at times.
At the end there is a touching scene with Thomas and Pru from the earlier books. I wanted to know more about the time Pru was captured by the Indian Lone Tree, but I guess that will have to wait for a later book. Which brings me to a last point. If you liked this trilogy, you’ll want to see how it ends in the Heroes of Heartbreak Creek trilogy that comes next, starting with Behind His Blue Eyes. It’s on my to read list!
November 24, 2014
I actually thought about skipping this book as the heroine, Lucinda, I haven’t much liked in the last two books. Not disliked her, but she just came across as quite hard. Then my OCD kicked in and I realised I needed to read it as it appears this is the last in this series, but the next series along is set in the same town and includes these characters, so it seemed important that I should read it.
I really loved this book till probably about half way through when the story gets to Heartbreak Creek, then it seemed to go down a bit. Seemed to get rushed and sort of went from a solid 4 star book down to a 3. The first half was so good, and whilst I did like the second half, it wasn’t in the same class as the first half. That’s a bit sad since that’s when the previous characters came into it, and I love that lot! Up until then it was probably my favourite of the three books, but it did drop down unfortunately. Whilst I did love the interaction between the guys, love them, love Ash the hero of the second book, it did seem a bit corny, and the end felt really, really rushed and unrealistic related to the villain.
The first book in this series is of Edwina and Declan, and begins with the ladies meeting on the train. Book 2 is of Maddie and her husband, Angus, and starts, time-wise, directly after book 1, and then this book interestingly begins well before those two stories, time-wise, before all the ladies meet. That’s the best part of the book, it shows Lucinda’s past and how she met the hero and why she ran. So about half to two thirds of this book is before book 1, then the last third of this book actually runs parallel with books 1 and 2 in time. It was quite interesting in that way.
It turns out that I quite liked the heroine, Lucinda, once I learned more about her, and I also really liked the hero, Tait.
I’ve actually really enjoyed all three books in this series. I’ve found a new auto buy author as I will go on now and read the next series, which really are ongoing books connected to these ones, and then I’ll go read her older books, and look forward very much to future books. I notice the last book still to come out is of Prudence and Thomas, which is definitely one I can’t wait to get my hands on. Prudence and Thomas really are main characters in this series, so it’s a bit strange her story is showing up at the end of the next trilogy – I’m not quite sure why they are two trilogies when they are totally connected and Pru is one of the main four ladies of this series. Anyway, doesn’t matter, it’s just confusing. Should have just had six books in one series, easier.
I really loved this book till probably about half way through when the story gets to Heartbreak Creek, then it seemed to go down a bit. Seemed to get rushed and sort of went from a solid 4 star book down to a 3. The first half was so good, and whilst I did like the second half, it wasn’t in the same class as the first half. That’s a bit sad since that’s when the previous characters came into it, and I love that lot! Up until then it was probably my favourite of the three books, but it did drop down unfortunately. Whilst I did love the interaction between the guys, love them, love Ash the hero of the second book, it did seem a bit corny, and the end felt really, really rushed and unrealistic related to the villain.
The first book in this series is of Edwina and Declan, and begins with the ladies meeting on the train. Book 2 is of Maddie and her husband, Angus, and starts, time-wise, directly after book 1, and then this book interestingly begins well before those two stories, time-wise, before all the ladies meet. That’s the best part of the book, it shows Lucinda’s past and how she met the hero and why she ran. So about half to two thirds of this book is before book 1, then the last third of this book actually runs parallel with books 1 and 2 in time. It was quite interesting in that way.
It turns out that I quite liked the heroine, Lucinda, once I learned more about her, and I also really liked the hero, Tait.
I’ve actually really enjoyed all three books in this series. I’ve found a new auto buy author as I will go on now and read the next series, which really are ongoing books connected to these ones, and then I’ll go read her older books, and look forward very much to future books. I notice the last book still to come out is of Prudence and Thomas, which is definitely one I can’t wait to get my hands on. Prudence and Thomas really are main characters in this series, so it’s a bit strange her story is showing up at the end of the next trilogy – I’m not quite sure why they are two trilogies when they are totally connected and Pru is one of the main four ladies of this series. Anyway, doesn’t matter, it’s just confusing. Should have just had six books in one series, easier.
June 13, 2012
The story begins with Margaret Hamilton, an orphan with a not so bright, but secretive past, preparing for her wedding to wealthy Irishman/New Yorker, Doyle Kerrigan. It's not a love match, but Margaret doesn't believe in love, just security and safety. After discovering that her intended is not all he presents himself to be, she still takes that walk down the aisle but absconds before the reception, leaving her "husband" confused. Her loving guardian Mrs. Ida Throckmorton plays like she has no idea what's going on, when she is the one that encouraged her ward to run.
When Doyle realizes that his bride as run off with the stock options he gifted her, he sends his right hand man, Tait Rylander to find the runaway. Only thing is, Mr. Rylander has been pining after Margaret for a year and never did anything about it. Can he be objective enough to find Margaret but not return her to his gruff "employer"? Hmmmmm. Will he let Margaret know he has feelings for her?
Once Margaret is free of Doyle Kerrigan, or she thinks she is, she becomes quick friends with Englishwoman, Maddie Wallace, who we meet in book one of Kaki Warner's Runaway Brides series.
The two ladies end up in Heartbreak Creek, Colorado.Margaret, now using the name Lucinda Hathaway and Maddie take up residence in the comfy town, making new friends.
Danger is always lurking for Lucinda now as she has more than one person from her past seeking her out and in addition, Tait Ryland, who wants to protect her and open his heart to her. Will the new Lucinda Hathaway allow that to happen? Will she allow her past to continue to taint her future? Read Kaki Warner's Bride of the High Country to find out.
How I enjoyed this book!! I loved the suspense and that all the characters were not quite all that they portray themselves to be. I loved the capacity for change and understanding, which every single one of Kaki Warner's books have. I was a fan of hers from the get-go. It just goes to show that out of darkness the sun can always shine with the right people beside you. I highly recommend this book.... A joy to read!
~KIMBERLY~
April 14, 2014
It's always such a pleasure coming back to Kaki Warner's rendition of the frontier territories. The attention to detail and the engaging story makes the characters seem almost real.
As the mystery of Lucinda's past is unraveled, we go back in time to before the series started and then tell the entire story of the three 'brides' meeting through her eyes. My only complaint with the book is the narrative gets a little choppy when the other main characters take center stage in latter parts, making me skip whole chunks of the story.
September 19, 2013
Cathleen, Margaret, Lucinda -- three names used by one person who has been running away her entire life. As Cathleen, her family escaped Ireland and traveled to America, hoping for a better life. Then she ran away from Mrs. Beale's and the men who abused and degraded her. As Margaret, she ran away from a husband who saw her as a trophy and a prize. Now as Lucinda, she has found her way to Heartbreak Creek, a small town in the Colorado Territory -- a place that most people see as a dead end. But, for Lucinda, she sees the promise of a new beginning.
But men from Lucinda's past are chasing after her: Tait Rylander is Lucinda's husband's business partner who was sent out to get her and the stock certificates back. But Tait has a personal agenda as well: he has loved Lucinda from the first moment and is determined to get some answers from her. The other man, Smythe, is from Lucinda's past as Cathleen -- who now works for a very important man with very important ambitions -- who needs to silence Lucinda.
We believe in second chances, in another shot at getting something right, at wiping the slate clean and starting over -- but, for Lucinda Hathaway, two chances weren't enough -- she's had to change her name twice and run away twice but her past always seems to catch up with her.
After escaping Mrs. Beale's and placed in the care of Mrs. Throckmorton, Lucinda thought she knew what she needed to secure herself: and so she agreed to marry Doyle Kerrigan, one of the richest and most powerful men in Manhattan. As her wedding drew nearer, doubts plagued Lucinda -- it isn't just a case of cold feet that is keeping her from her marriage, it's the discovery that her husband isn't quite who she thought he was.
With the help of Mrs. Throckmorton, Lucinda runs away again. What is different this time around is that someone is going after her. Two someones, actually.
Tait works as Doyle's lawyer and business partner. He's also harbored a secret admiration for Lucinda but, when she runs away, Tait thinks the worst of her and wants some answers. Did she take advantage of his business partner? Was all this part of her plan all along? Had he fallen in love with the wrong woman?
When Tait catches up to Lucinda in Pittsburgh, and discovers the danger that Lucinda is in, he is torn between his loyalty to a man who saved his life and to the woman who is his life. Lucinda, too, must choose between trusting Tait with her life or to run away again. There are even more questions to ask: Who is Smythe? and What does he want with Lucinda? But there are also answers: in seeing Lucinda and hearing her side, Tait realizes why he has loved her all this time. And is more determined to keep her safe.
This is my second Kaki Warner book and book 3 in her Runaway Brides series. When I first met Lucinda in Maggie's book ( Colorado Dawn ), she struck me as a woman who shrouds herself in mystery. Even then we knew Edwina's story and Pru's story and, of course, Maggie's story -- but we never heard Lucinda's story. And I wondered, what terrible secret could she possibly be hiding that she couldn't tell her closest friends about it?
Bride of the High Country addresses Lucinda's past and we understand why she needed to run away -- we also understand why she deserves this chance to make a new life for herself.
Lucinda is a wonderful heroine -- she had the world (Manhattan and Doyle's wealth and power) in her hands but she bravely walked away from it because she knew, deep down, that it would not have been the best life for her. That life would not have made her happy. At the beginning of the book, Lucinda seemed so passive and allowed things to happen but, on the day of her wedding, she finds the resolve to become an active agent in her own life. She ran away from the comfort of Mrs. Throckmorton's house into the great unknown, fully aware of the risks --
Tait is a great hero as well -- while Warner does not delve too much into his past, we can sense that Tait is a man worthy of love: he is incredibly loyal (blindly loyal, even), relentless and determined once he has set his mind to something and quite a visionary. He was caught between Doyle and Lucinda and, while a lesser man might have been crushed by the pressure of both sides, Tait found a solution that benefitted all. Plus, he writes amazing letters.
How their relationship develops is quite interesting -- there is very little physical contact because Tait was in Manhattan and Lucinda was in Heartbreak Creek. But the letters, the thoughtfulness and the sweetness of it all -- plus the ferocity of the need to protect all shine through and nurture the very small seed of love.
The author builds up the anticipation quite nicely and, when they finally reunite, fireworks. ^_^
More than the love story, I love how the author celebrates the power of women and of the amazing dynamic of men and women. It took Maddie's vision and Lucinda's money to transform a sleepy town into a vibrant one. I love how the men and women live together and love but also stand apart as individuals and equals in the work that they do.
Kaki Warner is a wonderful storyteller -- a true weaver of tales. This one left me spellbound and captivated with her unforgettable characters, and her very unique, very curiously-named town of Heartbreak Creek.
But men from Lucinda's past are chasing after her: Tait Rylander is Lucinda's husband's business partner who was sent out to get her and the stock certificates back. But Tait has a personal agenda as well: he has loved Lucinda from the first moment and is determined to get some answers from her. The other man, Smythe, is from Lucinda's past as Cathleen -- who now works for a very important man with very important ambitions -- who needs to silence Lucinda.
We believe in second chances, in another shot at getting something right, at wiping the slate clean and starting over -- but, for Lucinda Hathaway, two chances weren't enough -- she's had to change her name twice and run away twice but her past always seems to catch up with her.
After escaping Mrs. Beale's and placed in the care of Mrs. Throckmorton, Lucinda thought she knew what she needed to secure herself: and so she agreed to marry Doyle Kerrigan, one of the richest and most powerful men in Manhattan. As her wedding drew nearer, doubts plagued Lucinda -- it isn't just a case of cold feet that is keeping her from her marriage, it's the discovery that her husband isn't quite who she thought he was.
With the help of Mrs. Throckmorton, Lucinda runs away again. What is different this time around is that someone is going after her. Two someones, actually.
Tait works as Doyle's lawyer and business partner. He's also harbored a secret admiration for Lucinda but, when she runs away, Tait thinks the worst of her and wants some answers. Did she take advantage of his business partner? Was all this part of her plan all along? Had he fallen in love with the wrong woman?
When Tait catches up to Lucinda in Pittsburgh, and discovers the danger that Lucinda is in, he is torn between his loyalty to a man who saved his life and to the woman who is his life. Lucinda, too, must choose between trusting Tait with her life or to run away again. There are even more questions to ask: Who is Smythe? and What does he want with Lucinda? But there are also answers: in seeing Lucinda and hearing her side, Tait realizes why he has loved her all this time. And is more determined to keep her safe.
They were like dancers in a verbal waltz -- skirting around controversial subjects, saying the proper things, and keeping the proper space between them, as careful with words as dancers were with their steps.
Or perhaps with Lucinda, it was more like a fencing match. Thrust, parry, retreat, attack. The woman definitely kept him on his toes.
- Chapter 8
This is my second Kaki Warner book and book 3 in her Runaway Brides series. When I first met Lucinda in Maggie's book ( Colorado Dawn ), she struck me as a woman who shrouds herself in mystery. Even then we knew Edwina's story and Pru's story and, of course, Maggie's story -- but we never heard Lucinda's story. And I wondered, what terrible secret could she possibly be hiding that she couldn't tell her closest friends about it?
Bride of the High Country addresses Lucinda's past and we understand why she needed to run away -- we also understand why she deserves this chance to make a new life for herself.
"Well, here's a truth for you, Mr. Rylander. Life is hard and cruel and will drag you down at every turn if you let it. But not me. You know why? Because I've seen the worst it has to offer and I've survived it. Just as I'll survive this, and anything else you or Doyle or Smythe can throw at me. There's your truth! Now leave."
- Chapter 6
Lucinda is a wonderful heroine -- she had the world (Manhattan and Doyle's wealth and power) in her hands but she bravely walked away from it because she knew, deep down, that it would not have been the best life for her. That life would not have made her happy. At the beginning of the book, Lucinda seemed so passive and allowed things to happen but, on the day of her wedding, she finds the resolve to become an active agent in her own life. She ran away from the comfort of Mrs. Throckmorton's house into the great unknown, fully aware of the risks --
Tait is a great hero as well -- while Warner does not delve too much into his past, we can sense that Tait is a man worthy of love: he is incredibly loyal (blindly loyal, even), relentless and determined once he has set his mind to something and quite a visionary. He was caught between Doyle and Lucinda and, while a lesser man might have been crushed by the pressure of both sides, Tait found a solution that benefitted all. Plus, he writes amazing letters.
But be advised, Lucinda. We are not finished, you and I. Unlike your greengrocer's son or Doyle Kerrigam, I will not let you go easily, nor will I walk away without at least trying to convince you to give me another chance to win your affections.
...
Until then, I will be thinking of you -- and the way your skin glowed in the candlelight, and the little sounds you made when my hands moved over your beautiful body.
Tait
- Chapter 14
How their relationship develops is quite interesting -- there is very little physical contact because Tait was in Manhattan and Lucinda was in Heartbreak Creek. But the letters, the thoughtfulness and the sweetness of it all -- plus the ferocity of the need to protect all shine through and nurture the very small seed of love.
The author builds up the anticipation quite nicely and, when they finally reunite, fireworks. ^_^
More than the love story, I love how the author celebrates the power of women and of the amazing dynamic of men and women. It took Maddie's vision and Lucinda's money to transform a sleepy town into a vibrant one. I love how the men and women live together and love but also stand apart as individuals and equals in the work that they do.
Kaki Warner is a wonderful storyteller -- a true weaver of tales. This one left me spellbound and captivated with her unforgettable characters, and her very unique, very curiously-named town of Heartbreak Creek.
December 27, 2024
AHHHHHHHSBSBENKSMWKWKKWKW I love Tait soooooooooo much!!! He is literally such a sheesh. Makes me 🫠🫠🫠🫠🤠🤠🤠🤠
November 26, 2012
This is the third in the Runaway Brides trilogy, in which we finally hear the mysterious Lucinda Hathaway's story. True to Warner's other novels, this one grips from the start. I liked that the hero, Tait, immediately won me over-- not because of perfection, but because of his boy-scout protection of Lucinda. It was obvious that he admired her, but of course, she doesn't know this right away. Pages of witty dialogue adorn this book, and the suspense is made better through the historical lens of all that can happen on a train with a Pullman car. The character of Ida Throckmorton, Lucinda's stodgy old guardian, is a complete surprise and was easily one of the best parts of the story. Her relationship with Pringle, her servant, made me laugh out loud. The letters that pass back and forth between Lucinda and Tait, which must first go through her guardian, were also a highlight. Personally, I think letters have a completely necessary place in historical novels, when that is one of the main communication lines. The letter-writing is smart, hysterical, and captures the voice of each character.
Now, as to the part some have called "choppy": Lucinda's story catches up to the tale already told in Heartbreak Creek. It has been heard before by all who started with the first book. However, I thought it was cleverly woven together, and I actually liked feeling like I was traveling in time, only this time around it was through different eyes. For those who do not prefer very graphic romance novels, Warner gives more than enough to satisfy, but keeps it real. As for Pru and Thomas, I enjoy seeing glimpses of their story. They are minor characters, even though they have stolen readers' hearts. I can say that I'm okay with having one loose end. After all, it's nice to end a book with something to think about.
(I rated this 4 stars, because I think it's more credible than 5. If only there was a 4.5, which would mean "really, really" liked it!)
Now, as to the part some have called "choppy": Lucinda's story catches up to the tale already told in Heartbreak Creek. It has been heard before by all who started with the first book. However, I thought it was cleverly woven together, and I actually liked feeling like I was traveling in time, only this time around it was through different eyes. For those who do not prefer very graphic romance novels, Warner gives more than enough to satisfy, but keeps it real. As for Pru and Thomas, I enjoy seeing glimpses of their story. They are minor characters, even though they have stolen readers' hearts. I can say that I'm okay with having one loose end. After all, it's nice to end a book with something to think about.
(I rated this 4 stars, because I think it's more credible than 5. If only there was a 4.5, which would mean "really, really" liked it!)
June 12, 2012
I want to thank Kaki Warner for sending me Bride Of The High Country to review, it was my absolute pleasure. She is truly an amazing writer that has the ability to draw me into whatever world her books have created and where her characters sink in deep and don't let go till long after the book is finished. That to me is the mark of a great author and a great book and is the reason that I love to read!!
From the very first page I was lost in this book. So So Good!!! I loved catching up with the amazing characters from the previous books. Brodie, Ash and Thomas were so funny and some of their scenes together made me LOL....
"Greetings, heathen," Ash called with a grin.
"Ho, Scotsman. Where is your dress?"
"Tis a kilt, ye diaper-wearing savage."
I loved Lucinda and @*%@* together and was so happy to see them get their HEA. (I don't want to give away any spoilers). Just loved their relationship, they were perfect for each other. Oh Pru and Thomas!!!
A great book to end the series!! 5 out of 5 rating!!
From the very first page I was lost in this book. So So Good!!! I loved catching up with the amazing characters from the previous books. Brodie, Ash and Thomas were so funny and some of their scenes together made me LOL....
"Greetings, heathen," Ash called with a grin.
"Ho, Scotsman. Where is your dress?"
"Tis a kilt, ye diaper-wearing savage."
I loved Lucinda and @*%@* together and was so happy to see them get their HEA. (I don't want to give away any spoilers). Just loved their relationship, they were perfect for each other. Oh Pru and Thomas!!!
A great book to end the series!! 5 out of 5 rating!!
May 10, 2024
Cathelin Donovan, Margaret Hamilton, Lucinda Hathaway are all the same person. She's Irish and orphaned at 12 and is trying to leave her past. She meets Taet and he becomes her protector against 2 men who abuse children. Love finds her
September 27, 2024
Well...it started out strong. Kaki Warner is a wonderful writer, but the middle of the story was slow as she reintroduced characters from previous books and it was just quite dull. I think this could have been much better, but I was impressed by her writing so will try out others she has written.
January 4, 2018
fantastic series, the runaway brides kept me wanting to go back for more with -as always- believable characters and lively plot twists..
January 14, 2019
The third in the trilogy. Thoroughly enjoyed the characters in the interwoven story.
April 1, 2020
Last book in the Runaway Brides Trilogy. It's Lucinda's story and it can be funny and it can be so sad. What we know of her life when she is 12 was horrid but it didn't start at 12. Great read.
January 29, 2025
This was a great plane read. Definitely a romance through and through but good depth to the story.
September 2, 2012
I am so glad I discovered Kaki Warner last year when I read her Wilkins brothers trilogy. I’ve enjoyed every last word she’s written, right up to this latest book in her Runaway Brides series, Bride of the High Country. Her characters are charming and complex with wonderful flashes of humor. She’s become quite proficient at weaving previous characters into the current story without pushing the romance aside. The feel of early America is perfect, right down to the most minute detail. Each book has its own separate storyline, all of which have been intriguing, and she seamlessly brings her characters together to invite readers along on an adventure each and every time. But aside from all that? You just need to read Ms. Warner’s books because they’re so darned good. End of story.
In this third and last book of the trilogy, we finally get Lucinda’s story. She’s been the most closed-mouth of the three brides throughout the story arc; therefore, you’re curious as to what made her run. We find her in Manhattan going by the name of Margaret. As a child, she was taken in by a lady of means, Ida Throckmorton, after Cathleen – Margaret’s birth name – was found at the scene of a fire at a local brothel. Throughout the book we find out what happened to young Cathleen, and it breaks your heart. But she overcame that tragic part of her life and became Margaret, who is now just days away from marrying Doyle Kerrigan, a fellow Irishman.
This is not a love match for Margaret, but more a union of security, something she needs more than anything. On the groom’s part, he needs her connections to raise his reputation even higher and erase more of the Irish taint that’s always surrounded him; obviously he doesn’t know Margaret is Irish. Happy with the way her life is headed, she’s content to be wife and mother and keep her secrets hidden. Until her wedding day. She learns just before her walk down the aisle that Doyle played a part in the loss of everything she held dear.
With the help of her foster mother, Margaret is now on the run, has become Lucinda, and heads west, but where she ends up is not what she’d planned. In her travels she meets an adventurous and feisty photographer, Maddie Wallace. They become fast friends and decide to keep heading west to see what they find. Lucinda is game, hoping the farther she goes, the less likely Doyle and his men, including the Pinkertons, won’t be able to find her. Little does she know she still has an ally back in New York.
Tait Rylander is friend and business associate to Doyle. In actuality, he cleans up the messes left behind by the Irishman. Lucinda never warmed up toTait, but when he’s the only one who knows where she is, he’s the only one she’s opened up to, he’s the only one who wants her for who she is, she finds herself casting off her doubts about him. Tait, on the other hand, has kept himself in check for more than a year, keeping his hands off another’s man woman. The more he discovers about his partner, the more he wants out of their arrangement and the more he wants Lucinda and will help her all he can.
Lucinda and Maddie decide to stay in Heartbreak Creek, Colorado, where they meet more friends and opportunities they never imagined crop up. This is the place that says home to Lucinda and she jumps right in to breathe life into the small town. That’s when her greatest fear is realized, and now that Tait has abandoned her, she has only herself to depend on. Tait is determined to find Lucinda to try to explain what happened on that train in his efforts to protect her. And it’s a good thing he eventually does it face to face, because the lady is having none of him and his explanations by letter. And Lucinda can’t resist him whatsoever in the flesh.
This trilogy has been nothing but fun. I’ve loved these characters from the beginning. They depict the times just as Ms. Warner’s descriptions do. The stories take you through so many emotions as you live with these people and become entrenched in their lives. Lucinda’s is the most heart breaking of the three, but as with those early pioneers of this great nation, she’s a survivor, as well as an adventurer, though that is the last thing she ever expected in her life. Tait is a straight shooter, even with Lucinda. He knows his own mind and never backs down. These two belong together in every way. It’s also nice to catch up with the characters from previous books, and this is done very well throughout the trilogy so you don’t forget their story in between books.
Whether or not you pick up western and/or early American historicals, you should read Kaki Warner’s books. Strength of character and of the land she writes about, filled with heart and spirit, each book paints the perfect picture of overcoming hardship to conquering love and romance and carving a new life for the future. You will not be sorry you plunked your hard-earned bucks down for these reads. The characters of Heartbreak Break guarantee that.
See my complete review at http://www.goodbadandunread.com
In this third and last book of the trilogy, we finally get Lucinda’s story. She’s been the most closed-mouth of the three brides throughout the story arc; therefore, you’re curious as to what made her run. We find her in Manhattan going by the name of Margaret. As a child, she was taken in by a lady of means, Ida Throckmorton, after Cathleen – Margaret’s birth name – was found at the scene of a fire at a local brothel. Throughout the book we find out what happened to young Cathleen, and it breaks your heart. But she overcame that tragic part of her life and became Margaret, who is now just days away from marrying Doyle Kerrigan, a fellow Irishman.
This is not a love match for Margaret, but more a union of security, something she needs more than anything. On the groom’s part, he needs her connections to raise his reputation even higher and erase more of the Irish taint that’s always surrounded him; obviously he doesn’t know Margaret is Irish. Happy with the way her life is headed, she’s content to be wife and mother and keep her secrets hidden. Until her wedding day. She learns just before her walk down the aisle that Doyle played a part in the loss of everything she held dear.
With the help of her foster mother, Margaret is now on the run, has become Lucinda, and heads west, but where she ends up is not what she’d planned. In her travels she meets an adventurous and feisty photographer, Maddie Wallace. They become fast friends and decide to keep heading west to see what they find. Lucinda is game, hoping the farther she goes, the less likely Doyle and his men, including the Pinkertons, won’t be able to find her. Little does she know she still has an ally back in New York.
Tait Rylander is friend and business associate to Doyle. In actuality, he cleans up the messes left behind by the Irishman. Lucinda never warmed up toTait, but when he’s the only one who knows where she is, he’s the only one she’s opened up to, he’s the only one who wants her for who she is, she finds herself casting off her doubts about him. Tait, on the other hand, has kept himself in check for more than a year, keeping his hands off another’s man woman. The more he discovers about his partner, the more he wants out of their arrangement and the more he wants Lucinda and will help her all he can.
Lucinda and Maddie decide to stay in Heartbreak Creek, Colorado, where they meet more friends and opportunities they never imagined crop up. This is the place that says home to Lucinda and she jumps right in to breathe life into the small town. That’s when her greatest fear is realized, and now that Tait has abandoned her, she has only herself to depend on. Tait is determined to find Lucinda to try to explain what happened on that train in his efforts to protect her. And it’s a good thing he eventually does it face to face, because the lady is having none of him and his explanations by letter. And Lucinda can’t resist him whatsoever in the flesh.
This trilogy has been nothing but fun. I’ve loved these characters from the beginning. They depict the times just as Ms. Warner’s descriptions do. The stories take you through so many emotions as you live with these people and become entrenched in their lives. Lucinda’s is the most heart breaking of the three, but as with those early pioneers of this great nation, she’s a survivor, as well as an adventurer, though that is the last thing she ever expected in her life. Tait is a straight shooter, even with Lucinda. He knows his own mind and never backs down. These two belong together in every way. It’s also nice to catch up with the characters from previous books, and this is done very well throughout the trilogy so you don’t forget their story in between books.
Whether or not you pick up western and/or early American historicals, you should read Kaki Warner’s books. Strength of character and of the land she writes about, filled with heart and spirit, each book paints the perfect picture of overcoming hardship to conquering love and romance and carving a new life for the future. You will not be sorry you plunked your hard-earned bucks down for these reads. The characters of Heartbreak Break guarantee that.
See my complete review at http://www.goodbadandunread.com
February 21, 2017
My favorite parts are the banter between Angus and Brodie and Thomas
June 24, 2013
Overall Rating: 4.65 // Action: 2.5 / Emotion: 4.25 / Romance: 4.5 / Sensuous: 1.0 / Suspense: 4.0 // Historical Flavor: 4.5 // Laughter: 6 / Grins: 1 // Tears: 1 / Teary: 2
Bride of the High Country: 4.65:
Kaki Warner is a gifted storyteller. Her skill is evident as she gives readers this most beautifully written, emotionally engaging romance story. This book is an un-put-down-able read that slowly and irrevocably draws one deep into the lives of multi-dimensional characters.
Hero: 4.5:
Tait Rylander: An honorable man forced to partner with one not so trustworthy. Loved the way this honest, kind-hearted, loyal, intelligent, big, strong, 'behind the scenes' hero persevered through thick and thin -- always staying true to his sense of right and wrong. Tait slowly and deeply worms his way into the recesses of your heart just as surely as he did with his heroine.
Heroine: 4.0:
Cathleen Donovan / Margaret Hamilton / Lucinda Hathaway: From captive Irish orphan, to high society socialite, to cynical hotel owner, Warner painted a heart-rending picture of a survivor. So maybe, Lucinda wasn't the warmest member of the cast, but after reading her story, you couldn't help but admire her strength and identify with her desire to not only feel safe and secure but also to be loved and part of a family.
Story Line: 4.0:
A story filled with contrasts! Take two Irish orphans who knew true destitution, clean them up, give them money, and bring them together in the future. One was striving for safety and security, the other for acceptance. Remove the love and trust from the union and you end up with a bride who flees the wedding. Thankfully, waiting in the wings there is a partner who is faithful, true and tender-hearted who can come to the rescue. This story lost it's punch when Tait and Lucinda were separated. It's too bad that Warner couldn't find a way to speed up (and shorten) the "recap" process.
Action: 2.5:
The story moved at a rapid clip with a few inclusive action scenes until Lucinda reached Heartbreak Creek. Then the story slowed down to take a more mundane, sometimes repetitious path.
Emotion: 4.25:
Although not as deeply felt as in the previous books of the series (in that there were fewer tears and moments of laughter), the emotion Warner squeezed from the reader was no less powerful. You could just feel the wariness, frustration, desperation and longing in both Tait and Lucinda. Warner knows how to wring emotions from her readers.
Romance: 4.5:
Loved the way that Tait and Lucinda were so "aware" of each other, even when Lucinda though of Tait as the enemy. There was such a surety and calmness about Tait that his spirit finally inveigled it's way through the mile-wide barriers Lucinda had around her heart.
Sensuous: 1.0:
Even though Tait and Lucinda were sexually aware of each other and Warner included a bit more nudity into the lovemaking scenes, she still does not include spice, heat or sizzle in her love scenes. Yes, they are well-written and "fit" the story line, but a bit of pepper sure could add a sharper flavor to the mix.
Suspense: 4.0:
No, this wasn't an 'edge of your seat' intensely suspenseful novel, but there were moments when Warner had one on pins and needles wondering how she was going to extract Tait and Lucinda from the mess they were making. How was Lucinda going to escape? How was Tait going to find her? How were they going to end up together?
Secondary Characters: 4.75:
Warner is truly gifted when it comes to including well-developed, amazingly memorable secondary characters in her books. Yes, it was nice to get to spend time with {1} Declan and Ed (and their children), {2} Ash and Maddie, and {3} Thomas and Prudence, but the best addition to the cast of characters was Ida Throckmorton and her butler Pringle. There were several other characters that inspired interest as well; namely, {1} Doyle Kerrigan, {2} Franklin Horne, {3} Buster Quinn, {4} Elder and Ceily Rice, and {5} Abram, Levi, and Martha Yoder.
Historical Flavor: 4.5
Wow! This book will filled with bits of historical data. Warner filled the pages with details of the rich streets of upper-class Manhattan versus the desolation of Five Points. And then she includes incredible amounts of information about the multitude of companies vying to build the railway system spanning America. Tait and Lucinda spent many hours on various trains, revealing even more historical detail about train travel in the 1870s. Warner has proven she knows this subject inside and out.
See Wolf Bear Does Books for a more in-depth, detailed review of Bride of the High Country.
Bride of the High Country: 4.65:
Kaki Warner is a gifted storyteller. Her skill is evident as she gives readers this most beautifully written, emotionally engaging romance story. This book is an un-put-down-able read that slowly and irrevocably draws one deep into the lives of multi-dimensional characters.
Hero: 4.5:
Tait Rylander: An honorable man forced to partner with one not so trustworthy. Loved the way this honest, kind-hearted, loyal, intelligent, big, strong, 'behind the scenes' hero persevered through thick and thin -- always staying true to his sense of right and wrong. Tait slowly and deeply worms his way into the recesses of your heart just as surely as he did with his heroine.
Heroine: 4.0:
Cathleen Donovan / Margaret Hamilton / Lucinda Hathaway: From captive Irish orphan, to high society socialite, to cynical hotel owner, Warner painted a heart-rending picture of a survivor. So maybe, Lucinda wasn't the warmest member of the cast, but after reading her story, you couldn't help but admire her strength and identify with her desire to not only feel safe and secure but also to be loved and part of a family.
Story Line: 4.0:
A story filled with contrasts! Take two Irish orphans who knew true destitution, clean them up, give them money, and bring them together in the future. One was striving for safety and security, the other for acceptance. Remove the love and trust from the union and you end up with a bride who flees the wedding. Thankfully, waiting in the wings there is a partner who is faithful, true and tender-hearted who can come to the rescue. This story lost it's punch when Tait and Lucinda were separated. It's too bad that Warner couldn't find a way to speed up (and shorten) the "recap" process.
Action: 2.5:
The story moved at a rapid clip with a few inclusive action scenes until Lucinda reached Heartbreak Creek. Then the story slowed down to take a more mundane, sometimes repetitious path.
Emotion: 4.25:
Although not as deeply felt as in the previous books of the series (in that there were fewer tears and moments of laughter), the emotion Warner squeezed from the reader was no less powerful. You could just feel the wariness, frustration, desperation and longing in both Tait and Lucinda. Warner knows how to wring emotions from her readers.
Romance: 4.5:
Loved the way that Tait and Lucinda were so "aware" of each other, even when Lucinda though of Tait as the enemy. There was such a surety and calmness about Tait that his spirit finally inveigled it's way through the mile-wide barriers Lucinda had around her heart.
Sensuous: 1.0:
Even though Tait and Lucinda were sexually aware of each other and Warner included a bit more nudity into the lovemaking scenes, she still does not include spice, heat or sizzle in her love scenes. Yes, they are well-written and "fit" the story line, but a bit of pepper sure could add a sharper flavor to the mix.
Suspense: 4.0:
No, this wasn't an 'edge of your seat' intensely suspenseful novel, but there were moments when Warner had one on pins and needles wondering how she was going to extract Tait and Lucinda from the mess they were making. How was Lucinda going to escape? How was Tait going to find her? How were they going to end up together?
Secondary Characters: 4.75:
Warner is truly gifted when it comes to including well-developed, amazingly memorable secondary characters in her books. Yes, it was nice to get to spend time with {1} Declan and Ed (and their children), {2} Ash and Maddie, and {3} Thomas and Prudence, but the best addition to the cast of characters was Ida Throckmorton and her butler Pringle. There were several other characters that inspired interest as well; namely, {1} Doyle Kerrigan, {2} Franklin Horne, {3} Buster Quinn, {4} Elder and Ceily Rice, and {5} Abram, Levi, and Martha Yoder.
Historical Flavor: 4.5
Wow! This book will filled with bits of historical data. Warner filled the pages with details of the rich streets of upper-class Manhattan versus the desolation of Five Points. And then she includes incredible amounts of information about the multitude of companies vying to build the railway system spanning America. Tait and Lucinda spent many hours on various trains, revealing even more historical detail about train travel in the 1870s. Warner has proven she knows this subject inside and out.
See Wolf Bear Does Books for a more in-depth, detailed review of Bride of the High Country.
June 13, 2012
Bride of the High Country is the third book of the Runaway Brides series. I haven't read the two previous books but I had no problems following the plot. The book easily read as a stand alone with characters from the previous two books smoothly being a part of Tait and Margaret's story.
I really enjoyed Bride of the High Country. The romance is really well-written. The one thing that I heard about Kaki Warner's books is that there are no graphic sex scenes. The intimate scenes fade to black, something that I'm not used to reading but it worked for me. The focus was on the relationship and the romance.
Margaret has experienced a lot of hardship at a young age so as an adult, what she wants in life is safety and security. She thinks she's going to find that with Doyle but when she discovers a secret about Doyle, she takes off. Tait is tasked with bringing her back. Tait and Margaret's relationship has always been a tense one but the longer they are in each other's company, the tension begins to ease. Margaret is a strong-willed woman and knows her own mind. She frustrates Tait constantly with battling him at every turn. Margaret is a woman who must have the last word. Some of these scenes, with Tait and Margaret arguing back and forth, were some of my favorite.
"Take down your hair."
"It might get tangled."
"I'll brush it later."
"But it knots easily."
"I'll brush out every snarl. I promise."
"But-"
"Now? You want to argue about your hair now?"
Because Tait and Margaret's relationship is written so well, I was not overly fond when the two were separated. I loved that Margaret met new friends and started establishing her life and independence at Heartbreak Creek but for me, it took too long for Tait and Margaret to get back together. I really liked Tait; he is written so well as the hero. You can't help but root for him to find his way back to Margaret. I was hoping the reconciliation would have happened sooner rather than later. Because of my impatience of the inevitable reunion, some parts of the book dragged for me.
At the end, it felt like the plots of the previous two books were quickly wrapped up while leaving us wanting more with the epilogue. I am definitely interested in reading more about Thomas and Pru. I liked Bride of the High Country a lot. I haven't read many historical romances that take place in America and it was refreshing. I will definitely be reading the next book in the series.
I really enjoyed Bride of the High Country. The romance is really well-written. The one thing that I heard about Kaki Warner's books is that there are no graphic sex scenes. The intimate scenes fade to black, something that I'm not used to reading but it worked for me. The focus was on the relationship and the romance.
Margaret has experienced a lot of hardship at a young age so as an adult, what she wants in life is safety and security. She thinks she's going to find that with Doyle but when she discovers a secret about Doyle, she takes off. Tait is tasked with bringing her back. Tait and Margaret's relationship has always been a tense one but the longer they are in each other's company, the tension begins to ease. Margaret is a strong-willed woman and knows her own mind. She frustrates Tait constantly with battling him at every turn. Margaret is a woman who must have the last word. Some of these scenes, with Tait and Margaret arguing back and forth, were some of my favorite.
"Take down your hair."
"It might get tangled."
"I'll brush it later."
"But it knots easily."
"I'll brush out every snarl. I promise."
"But-"
"Now? You want to argue about your hair now?"
Because Tait and Margaret's relationship is written so well, I was not overly fond when the two were separated. I loved that Margaret met new friends and started establishing her life and independence at Heartbreak Creek but for me, it took too long for Tait and Margaret to get back together. I really liked Tait; he is written so well as the hero. You can't help but root for him to find his way back to Margaret. I was hoping the reconciliation would have happened sooner rather than later. Because of my impatience of the inevitable reunion, some parts of the book dragged for me.
At the end, it felt like the plots of the previous two books were quickly wrapped up while leaving us wanting more with the epilogue. I am definitely interested in reading more about Thomas and Pru. I liked Bride of the High Country a lot. I haven't read many historical romances that take place in America and it was refreshing. I will definitely be reading the next book in the series.
November 25, 2016
Kaki Warner's writing is so lovely, but unfortunately this story had a hard time keeping me engaged. It was strange and I couldn't understand it. Then I realized what my problem with this story was. More than the first half of this book occurs before the first book of the series. If this were a standalone book, I wouldn't have minded. The story was engaging enough, the characters were well developed, and the writing was strong. However, since I already knew that the h arrives in Heartbreak Creek without the H, I had a hard time being patient. The urgency with which I read to arrive at where the second book's plot ended was fierce and uncomfortable.
I had a greedy need to instantly download everything into my brain up until the MCs are reunited that whatever happened in this book until that moment frustrated me. I understood why the author wrote the book in this way, but I didn't enjoy it as much as I'd anticipated. Many other reviewers stated that this was the most emotionally satisfying book of the series, but I only saw it as half gigantic flashback, without the ping ponging back and forth between the past and the present.
I almost put it down as a DNF, but came back to it after a short break spent with an unsatisfying series. I was immediately sucked back into this story by Warner's writing and found myself powering through until the end. I'm glad I stuck with it. While it was a frustrating and a little slow in the first half, the rest of the book more than makes up for it. The H was a little bit of an idiot, but he doesn't spend too much time being dumb and quickly works to fix his mistakes. He was a good guy. I do wish that we could have seen more of him falling in love with the h, since from the reader's pov, it did feel like he fell in love with her overnight. I also wanted a real epilogue for the MCs, instead of yet another teaser for Pru and Thomas's story. Overall, I liked the dual povs, the banter between the MCs, the funny letters, and the utter lack of drama with ow/om. I will read more books by this author and have high hopes for enjoying those, too.
I had a greedy need to instantly download everything into my brain up until the MCs are reunited that whatever happened in this book until that moment frustrated me. I understood why the author wrote the book in this way, but I didn't enjoy it as much as I'd anticipated. Many other reviewers stated that this was the most emotionally satisfying book of the series, but I only saw it as half gigantic flashback, without the ping ponging back and forth between the past and the present.
I almost put it down as a DNF, but came back to it after a short break spent with an unsatisfying series. I was immediately sucked back into this story by Warner's writing and found myself powering through until the end. I'm glad I stuck with it. While it was a frustrating and a little slow in the first half, the rest of the book more than makes up for it. The H was a little bit of an idiot, but he doesn't spend too much time being dumb and quickly works to fix his mistakes. He was a good guy. I do wish that we could have seen more of him falling in love with the h, since from the reader's pov, it did feel like he fell in love with her overnight. I also wanted a real epilogue for the MCs, instead of yet another teaser for Pru and Thomas's story. Overall, I liked the dual povs, the banter between the MCs, the funny letters, and the utter lack of drama with ow/om. I will read more books by this author and have high hopes for enjoying those, too.
August 21, 2012
I am surprised that this book does not have more reviews I wonder if its the lack of readership or if its a hard to find book, however if its a rare readership case people are missing out by not reading this amazing romance historical novel. I absolutely loved the book, the main heroine was one of the best that I have read about. Also the hero as well was very charismatic and loving he paid his debt to Lucinda after he left her and he came back a more loving man what a romantic, just the right man to open Lucinda's heart.
This is a very good historical novel in my opinion because the author does so well in explaining and telling us about the times. Her description was beautiful I felt as if I traveled back in time reading this. I understand this is the third book in the series and I have not read the previous ones, however it was still understandable even to a person who has not read her previous novels.
The story itself was so fun and dazzling a runaway bride while two men chase her. And of course she gets smitten with one of them the Hero Rylander. It was so interesting how Lucinda at first saw Rylander as a threat she believed he was a bad man capable of anything, which in fact she figured out it was quite the opposite. And to her surprise he had liked her ever since he saw her.
The bad now of course some things in the novel I didn't like, I felt the story should have been longer because there was so much more to write about and at the end it seemed that everything was going to fast. Another thing I didn't like was the whole she found a new family thing, I felt that it should of been more about Rylander and her instead of her new "friends".
But I understand that the whole goal of the author and the plot was in fact that Lucinda found new friends, however if that was up to me I would have changed that. She also seemed to place more importance to her running the hotel rather then feeling anguish for Rylander. This book is highly recommended. Well worth the read.
This is a very good historical novel in my opinion because the author does so well in explaining and telling us about the times. Her description was beautiful I felt as if I traveled back in time reading this. I understand this is the third book in the series and I have not read the previous ones, however it was still understandable even to a person who has not read her previous novels.
The story itself was so fun and dazzling a runaway bride while two men chase her. And of course she gets smitten with one of them the Hero Rylander. It was so interesting how Lucinda at first saw Rylander as a threat she believed he was a bad man capable of anything, which in fact she figured out it was quite the opposite. And to her surprise he had liked her ever since he saw her.
The bad now of course some things in the novel I didn't like, I felt the story should have been longer because there was so much more to write about and at the end it seemed that everything was going to fast. Another thing I didn't like was the whole she found a new family thing, I felt that it should of been more about Rylander and her instead of her new "friends".
But I understand that the whole goal of the author and the plot was in fact that Lucinda found new friends, however if that was up to me I would have changed that. She also seemed to place more importance to her running the hotel rather then feeling anguish for Rylander. This book is highly recommended. Well worth the read.
June 9, 2012
3 1/2 stars for this one. This one suffered a bit from 'wrap-up-itis' in the second half, but the first half was first rate.
This is Lucinda's story and what a story it is. Born Cathleen Donovan, we meet her as a 12 year old girl who has fled from a burning brothel. She's rescued by the local priest and placed in a new home with a new identity. When next we see her she is Margaret Hamilton, ward of the late Judge Throckmorton and his very much alive widow. (Mrs Throckmorton is a doll and one of the best characters in the book). She is engaged to Doyle Kerrigan, wealthy Irish businessman who can offer her a comfortable life and security. Or can he? No real surprise that Doyle turns out to be a scumbag--after all, something has to prod Margaret into running away and turning into Lucinda.
The love interest comes in the person of Tait Rylander, a 'friend' and business associate of Doyle's. He is also hot on her trail, determined to return her to Doyle. Until it turns out someone else is chasing her--someone from her past as Cathleen...
The interaction between Margaret/Lucinda and Tait is wonderful; the second half of the book suffers while Tait is back in NY and Lucinda is in Colorado. There are letters, which are funny, but they don't substitute for fact to face interaction. It was entertaining to read about the events of the first two books through Lucinda's point of view (which also served to refresh our memory of what happened--win, win). We finally get to our HEA, which was quite lovely. All in all, a good way to spend an afternoon.
Kaki Warner has a lovely voice and writes a good story. I look forward to her next book.
This is Lucinda's story and what a story it is. Born Cathleen Donovan, we meet her as a 12 year old girl who has fled from a burning brothel. She's rescued by the local priest and placed in a new home with a new identity. When next we see her she is Margaret Hamilton, ward of the late Judge Throckmorton and his very much alive widow. (Mrs Throckmorton is a doll and one of the best characters in the book). She is engaged to Doyle Kerrigan, wealthy Irish businessman who can offer her a comfortable life and security. Or can he? No real surprise that Doyle turns out to be a scumbag--after all, something has to prod Margaret into running away and turning into Lucinda.
The love interest comes in the person of Tait Rylander, a 'friend' and business associate of Doyle's. He is also hot on her trail, determined to return her to Doyle. Until it turns out someone else is chasing her--someone from her past as Cathleen...
The interaction between Margaret/Lucinda and Tait is wonderful; the second half of the book suffers while Tait is back in NY and Lucinda is in Colorado. There are letters, which are funny, but they don't substitute for fact to face interaction. It was entertaining to read about the events of the first two books through Lucinda's point of view (which also served to refresh our memory of what happened--win, win). We finally get to our HEA, which was quite lovely. All in all, a good way to spend an afternoon.
Kaki Warner has a lovely voice and writes a good story. I look forward to her next book.
June 5, 2019
This beautiful book grabbed me from the first page and the characters were wonderful! From the beginning of HEARTBREAK CREEK (book 1 of this series), I knew Margaret/Lucinda's story would be interesting. She was always so secretive about how she came to Heartbreak Creek with so much money.
I felt that Tait Rylander and Margaret/Lucinda were evenly matched as a couple. They were each independent thinkers who shouldered their responsibilities. The reader knows that Margaret/Lucinda needs to get away from her intended husband Doyle Kerrigan, but it doesn't seem possible.
Sometimes authors don't pull off actions (David Baldacci sometimes has problems with amazing feats by his main characters, for example) but Warner does a beautiful job of getting us to believe that Margaret/Lucinda could evade her wedding - with oodles of security in place.
As always with a Kaki Warner series, previous characters help make the plot more interesting. Both couples from the previous 2 books are important parts of this story.
The only thing I didn't enjoy was the short-shrift given to Thomas Redstone and Prudence Lincoln. Each had suffered a great deal in the past. I was disappointed that their story was hurriedly completed in the last few pages. The solution was very unsatisfying.
It's delightful that Kaki Warner is still writing novels; in December 2012, she released the novella MIRACLE IN NEW HOPE.
Runaway Brides
1. Heartbreak Creek (2011)
2. Colorado Dawn (2012)
3. Bride of the High Country (2012)
I felt that Tait Rylander and Margaret/Lucinda were evenly matched as a couple. They were each independent thinkers who shouldered their responsibilities. The reader knows that Margaret/Lucinda needs to get away from her intended husband Doyle Kerrigan, but it doesn't seem possible.
Sometimes authors don't pull off actions (David Baldacci sometimes has problems with amazing feats by his main characters, for example) but Warner does a beautiful job of getting us to believe that Margaret/Lucinda could evade her wedding - with oodles of security in place.
As always with a Kaki Warner series, previous characters help make the plot more interesting. Both couples from the previous 2 books are important parts of this story.
The only thing I didn't enjoy was the short-shrift given to Thomas Redstone and Prudence Lincoln. Each had suffered a great deal in the past. I was disappointed that their story was hurriedly completed in the last few pages. The solution was very unsatisfying.
It's delightful that Kaki Warner is still writing novels; in December 2012, she released the novella MIRACLE IN NEW HOPE.
Runaway Brides
1. Heartbreak Creek (2011)
2. Colorado Dawn (2012)
3. Bride of the High Country (2012)
August 23, 2012
Margaret/Lucinda was a multifaceted heroine, and her stories were equally traumatic, fascinating and entertaining. She was a survivor, but her gutsy attitude wasn't obnoxious. Tait was a true protective-type hero, the kind who loved her from the sidelines. And he was human: sensitive and strong, yet only able to do so much. The story sped along up until a little over half-way when it bogged down when Lucinda met up with Maddie, Edwina, and Pru on the train and was trying to catch up with the previous Runaway Brides novels ever since. However, things picked up again when the villain from Luce's past came into Heartbreak Creek. For me the most poignant scene was when Lucinda was trying to reconcile her early childhood self with her current identity and Tait told her how to come to peace with that young girl. Beautiful. But my one big gripe was with Pru and Thomas' choppy, half-baked story. Don't they get their very own novel? I was supposed to be satisfied with that sorry excuse of an epilogue? The way it stands, I'm not sure if the series ends now or if Pru and Thomas actually do get to tell their tale. And for that, I drop my rating down to somewhere between 3.5 and four stars.
June 7, 2013
Warner takes an interesting angle on this, the last of the Runaway Brides books. Lucinda Hathaway was never really a likeable character to me. She was okay, but I wondered how much I would enjoy her story. However, Warner takes us back to Lucinda's beginnings as a poor Irish immigrant, through her horrible experiences at the hands of child-exploiters, her aborted wedding, and out to Heartbreak Creek. By the time she makes it out there, I completely understood her and was rooting for her. We also get to see the last three books through her eyes. The hero is not who you think he is; Warner is more creative than that. And there is an awesome butler named Pringle who reminded me so much of Archer's Woodhouse I almost laughed out loud. "He thinks he's people!"
The end of the story is bittersweet, which I think stays true to the time and place of the story. While outcasts and weirdos find their homes in Heartbreak Creek, they are still living in a world of great change on the racial and political front. Certain characters cannot just live happily ever after, but must move into the future with purpose. That purpose might keep them apart at times.
The end of the story is bittersweet, which I think stays true to the time and place of the story. While outcasts and weirdos find their homes in Heartbreak Creek, they are still living in a world of great change on the racial and political front. Certain characters cannot just live happily ever after, but must move into the future with purpose. That purpose might keep them apart at times.
March 8, 2021
Margaret Hamilton never imagined herself as a girl on the run ... for her entire life. She ran to escape the horror of a brothel as a young child. She ran on her wedding day to escape her dangerous groom. She ran from her groom's right hand man who was told to bring her back. Margaret needs a new place and a new life. She takes her stand in Heartbreak Creek and changes her name to Lucinda Hathaway. Her new life with her new friends will bring her strength and confidence to change be the women she wants to be.
After reading about Edwina and Maddie's stories, Lucinda's story was crying out to be heard. The trio of ladies came from all different backgrounds, but Lucinda brought leadership and togetherness to the group. It was so good to read her story and find out how her past shaped her life in Heartbreak Creek.
Time Period: Western, 1870's
Location: Heartbreak Creek, Colorado, USA
Reviewed from a library copy.
After reading about Edwina and Maddie's stories, Lucinda's story was crying out to be heard. The trio of ladies came from all different backgrounds, but Lucinda brought leadership and togetherness to the group. It was so good to read her story and find out how her past shaped her life in Heartbreak Creek.
Time Period: Western, 1870's
Location: Heartbreak Creek, Colorado, USA
Reviewed from a library copy.
April 13, 2014
BRIDE OF THE HIGH COUNTRY by Kaki Warner
Margaret had a horrendous life in the United States until Mrs. Throckmorton adopted her and brought her up to be a fashionably young lady. She decides to marry the Irishman Doyle who could keep her safe. He is wealthy and powerful, but when she discovers his secrets, she knows that she cannot ever marry him. She catches a train and runs west. Who are the two men that are following her? Tait owes a debt to Doyle and the other man is someone from her past.
The first half of this story as Margaret travels west is a definite five. It bogged down a bit when she reaches Heart break, Colorado, to meet up with people from Ms. Warner’s previous books, and at that point, turned into a four rating. I really liked the hero of the piece – he and Margaret are a wonderful match. I look forward to reading Kaki Warner’s next series. She writes a very entertaining story and I highly recommend everything she has written.
Margaret had a horrendous life in the United States until Mrs. Throckmorton adopted her and brought her up to be a fashionably young lady. She decides to marry the Irishman Doyle who could keep her safe. He is wealthy and powerful, but when she discovers his secrets, she knows that she cannot ever marry him. She catches a train and runs west. Who are the two men that are following her? Tait owes a debt to Doyle and the other man is someone from her past.
The first half of this story as Margaret travels west is a definite five. It bogged down a bit when she reaches Heart break, Colorado, to meet up with people from Ms. Warner’s previous books, and at that point, turned into a four rating. I really liked the hero of the piece – he and Margaret are a wonderful match. I look forward to reading Kaki Warner’s next series. She writes a very entertaining story and I highly recommend everything she has written.
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