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A Western Light #1
Chasing the Horizon
Upon uncovering her tyrannical father's plot to commit her to an asylum, Beth Rutledge fabricates a plan of her own--she will rescue her mother, who had already been sent to the asylum by her father, and escape together on a wagon train heading west. Posing as sisters, Beth and her mother join forces with other travelers and hope they can make it to Idaho before the others start asking too many questions.
Wagon train scout Jake Holt senses that the mysterious women in his caravan are running from something. When rumors begin to spread of Pinkerton agents searching relentlessly for wanted criminals who match the description of those on his wagon train, including Beth, she begins to open up to him and he learns something much more sinister is at hand. Can they risk trusting each other with their lives--and their hearts--with danger threatening their every step?
From bestselling author Mary Connealy comes a gripping and adventurous historical novel of survival, sacrifice, and romance on the Oregon Trail.
Wagon train scout Jake Holt senses that the mysterious women in his caravan are running from something. When rumors begin to spread of Pinkerton agents searching relentlessly for wanted criminals who match the description of those on his wagon train, including Beth, she begins to open up to him and he learns something much more sinister is at hand. Can they risk trusting each other with their lives--and their hearts--with danger threatening their every step?
From bestselling author Mary Connealy comes a gripping and adventurous historical novel of survival, sacrifice, and romance on the Oregon Trail.
296 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2024
225 people are currently reading
4900 people want to read
About the author
Mary Connealy
116 books2,486 followersMary Connealy writes romantic comedy with cowboys always with a strong suspense thread. She is a two time Carol Award winner, and a Rita, Christy and Inspirational Reader's Choice finalist.
She is the bestselling author of 65 books and novellas.
Her most recent three book series are: Braced for Love, A Man with a Past and Love on the Range for Bethany House Publishing. She’s also written four other series for Barbour Publishing and many novellas and several stand-alone books for multiple publishers.
Mary will be a published author for ten years in 2017 with nearly a million books in print. She has a degree in broadcast communications with an emphasis in journalism and has worked at her local newspaper.
Find Mary online at:
Seekerville
Petticoats & Pistols
My Website
She is the bestselling author of 65 books and novellas.
Her most recent three book series are: Braced for Love, A Man with a Past and Love on the Range for Bethany House Publishing. She’s also written four other series for Barbour Publishing and many novellas and several stand-alone books for multiple publishers.
Mary will be a published author for ten years in 2017 with nearly a million books in print. She has a degree in broadcast communications with an emphasis in journalism and has worked at her local newspaper.
Find Mary online at:
Seekerville
Petticoats & Pistols
My Website
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 244 reviews
February 21, 2024
I have not read a great wagon train historical fiction in some years. It's funny because I was just talking to my husband the other day about how I've missed reading these types of stories and stories about pioneers recently. I've been reading a lot of WWII stories recently and while I do enjoy them it's nice to have a variety in my historical fiction so I'm glad the author has written this book.
I've been reading this author's books for so long and I can always count on a fabulous and realistic story that has you feeling as though you're there and can talk to the characters. In this case I could feel the danger the characters are in, for example the wagons as they are fording the streams. This is something we wouldn't worry about today, but the author writes it in with such authenticity. How easily someone could be admitted to an asylum while claiming the person was having hysterics and paying off a doctor is just wrong. There was danger filled times and joyful times and I enjoyed the book a lot. I look forward to the next book in the series.
Pub Date 13 Feb 2024
I was given a complimentary copy of this book.
All opinions expressed are my own.
I've been reading this author's books for so long and I can always count on a fabulous and realistic story that has you feeling as though you're there and can talk to the characters. In this case I could feel the danger the characters are in, for example the wagons as they are fording the streams. This is something we wouldn't worry about today, but the author writes it in with such authenticity. How easily someone could be admitted to an asylum while claiming the person was having hysterics and paying off a doctor is just wrong. There was danger filled times and joyful times and I enjoyed the book a lot. I look forward to the next book in the series.
Pub Date 13 Feb 2024
I was given a complimentary copy of this book.
All opinions expressed are my own.
February 27, 2024
My favourite Mary Connealy book I've read so far!!! It was romantic, exciting and, when paired with excellent narration, right up my alley. I adore the found family trope, and this has that in abundance.
We first have Beth and her mother, then add Kat, Sebastian, Oscar and his bothers, Jake and the O'Toole's. It's a full house, hah. Absolutely loved them all, and I'm hoping all of them get their own story. I know the next one is about Kat & Sebastian, but I'd also love to see Ginny and Oscar get a story and I have an inkling Bruce would mesh well with the O'Toole's. Please make it happen Mrs Connealy!
When I read the Wyoming Sunrise series, one of the things I loved most was how there was a background plot with the villain(s) that stretched throughout the three books, and it seems that will be the case here too. We even got a PoV from the villain and oh, how I hated him. The whole time I was like "JUST LEAVE THEM ALONE".
I was so scared about what would happen when he finally caught up to them, and my mind went in a totally different direction from what actually ended up happening. I'm satisfied though, I feel that justice was served (for now).
I have another idea, even though I don't like Thaddeus, what if he and Yvette got together for real at the end of the series? After he redeems himself though, if that's even possible. Either way I liked their chemistry.
Jake & Beth are my faves (in their own book? Shocker), their slow burn relationship was goals. I love how ready Jake was to protect Beth and her family, and how he respected her & wasn't gonna let her slip through his fingers. He knew what he wanted and went after it as he should.
I'm sooo excited for the next book in the series, I can't believe I have to wait till June, that's so unfair. Hopefully my library will add it as soon as it's available, because when I go and preorder a physical copy it likely won't arrive for a month or longer. I really like the audiobooks though so ideally for the next book I could listen & read along.
We first have Beth and her mother, then add Kat, Sebastian, Oscar and his bothers, Jake and the O'Toole's. It's a full house, hah. Absolutely loved them all, and I'm hoping all of them get their own story. I know the next one is about Kat & Sebastian, but I'd also love to see Ginny and Oscar get a story and I have an inkling Bruce would mesh well with the O'Toole's. Please make it happen Mrs Connealy!
When I read the Wyoming Sunrise series, one of the things I loved most was how there was a background plot with the villain(s) that stretched throughout the three books, and it seems that will be the case here too. We even got a PoV from the villain and oh, how I hated him. The whole time I was like "JUST LEAVE THEM ALONE".
I was so scared about what would happen when he finally caught up to them, and my mind went in a totally different direction from what actually ended up happening. I'm satisfied though, I feel that justice was served (for now).
I have another idea, even though I don't like Thaddeus, what if he and Yvette got together for real at the end of the series? After he redeems himself though, if that's even possible. Either way I liked their chemistry.
Jake & Beth are my faves (in their own book? Shocker), their slow burn relationship was goals. I love how ready Jake was to protect Beth and her family, and how he respected her & wasn't gonna let her slip through his fingers. He knew what he wanted and went after it as he should.
I'm sooo excited for the next book in the series, I can't believe I have to wait till June, that's so unfair. Hopefully my library will add it as soon as it's available, because when I go and preorder a physical copy it likely won't arrive for a month or longer. I really like the audiobooks though so ideally for the next book I could listen & read along.
February 22, 2024
Chasing the Horizon by Mary Connealy - 3 stars
Readers who enjoy Westerns Christian Historical Romance will enjoy this one but be aware of some intense descriptions of women being sent to insane asylums and their horrible treatments. This brings awareness to how easily a husband could send his wife to an asylum when she did something as simple as disagree with him. This is the 4th Mary Connealy book I have read so far.
In this book, Beth Rutledge helps her mother and friend escape from the insane asylum they were wrongfully imprisoned in. Her father put her mother away and Beth went on the journey to save her from the terrible conditions she endured. They go on the run from their father, assuming new identities on a wagon trail out west. In comes Jake Holt, a wagon trail scout, who helps the women in their journey. Beth and Jake fall in love and he makes sure to take care of her and family at all costs. Meanwhile, Beth's crazy and vindictive father is right on their trail searching for them....
Overall, I liked this book but wasn't exactly in love with it and felt like I wanted the ending to be wrapped up a little more, but I know there is another book in the series to continue to see what happens next. I have enjoyed several of Mary's books but I think I also wanted something different with the romance in this one. It was very awkward to see no real romance and then all of a sudden things moved very quickly between them. It's a clean romance but I wanted more of their interactions together, getting to know each other more, etc. But I understand there was so much going on with the main plot, so that makes sense. This This also seemed a bit formulaic compared to other books I have read by her so it didn't stand out to me necessarily. However, I do recommend this book to anyone who loves a good Christian Western Historical Romance story.
Thank you to Bethany House and NetGalley for providing a copy to honestly read and review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Readers who enjoy Westerns Christian Historical Romance will enjoy this one but be aware of some intense descriptions of women being sent to insane asylums and their horrible treatments. This brings awareness to how easily a husband could send his wife to an asylum when she did something as simple as disagree with him. This is the 4th Mary Connealy book I have read so far.
In this book, Beth Rutledge helps her mother and friend escape from the insane asylum they were wrongfully imprisoned in. Her father put her mother away and Beth went on the journey to save her from the terrible conditions she endured. They go on the run from their father, assuming new identities on a wagon trail out west. In comes Jake Holt, a wagon trail scout, who helps the women in their journey. Beth and Jake fall in love and he makes sure to take care of her and family at all costs. Meanwhile, Beth's crazy and vindictive father is right on their trail searching for them....
Overall, I liked this book but wasn't exactly in love with it and felt like I wanted the ending to be wrapped up a little more, but I know there is another book in the series to continue to see what happens next. I have enjoyed several of Mary's books but I think I also wanted something different with the romance in this one. It was very awkward to see no real romance and then all of a sudden things moved very quickly between them. It's a clean romance but I wanted more of their interactions together, getting to know each other more, etc. But I understand there was so much going on with the main plot, so that makes sense. This This also seemed a bit formulaic compared to other books I have read by her so it didn't stand out to me necessarily. However, I do recommend this book to anyone who loves a good Christian Western Historical Romance story.
Thank you to Bethany House and NetGalley for providing a copy to honestly read and review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
February 10, 2024
1869 Illinois to Idaho
The idea of how easily a wife could be admitted to an insane asylum a century ago is so frightening. Elizabeth Rutledge partners with a former employee of her dad's estate to break her mom out of the asylum and flee. Mother and daughter escape west under new identities. Their journey on the Oregon Trail begins in Independence, Missouri. While Elizabeth has had time to build skills for the journey, her mother has not.
It was great to be a part of their time on the Oregon Trail. I look forward to continuing the series.
My gratitude to Bethany House for a complimentary NetGalley copy of the novel. I was not required to post a review and all opinions expressed are my own.
The idea of how easily a wife could be admitted to an insane asylum a century ago is so frightening. Elizabeth Rutledge partners with a former employee of her dad's estate to break her mom out of the asylum and flee. Mother and daughter escape west under new identities. Their journey on the Oregon Trail begins in Independence, Missouri. While Elizabeth has had time to build skills for the journey, her mother has not.
It was great to be a part of their time on the Oregon Trail. I look forward to continuing the series.
My gratitude to Bethany House for a complimentary NetGalley copy of the novel. I was not required to post a review and all opinions expressed are my own.
February 18, 2024
Thoroughly enjoyed Chasing the Horizon, the first book in a brand new series by Mary Connealy. I found myself eagerly transported back in time to the Oregon Trail when the last of the wagon trains were headed West. I loved the suspense, mystery, touch of faith, and slow build romance along with the descriptive scenery and multiple points of view as the main characters make the perilous journey from Chicago to Idaho.
Beth Rutledge just helped her mother and a friend escape from the insane asylum they were wrongfully imprisoned in. She’s been working for months to find a way to outsmart her conniving, ruthless father. With the railroads spreading all across the U.S., she’s chosen the last place her father might look for them, on one of the last, few wagon trains heading West.
Jake Holt is a wagon train scout determined to make this his last trip along the Oregon Trail. He’s anxious to get back to the nice property waiting for him in Oregon. The three women who join the wagon train along with an injured gentleman raise his suspicions. As he gains Beth’s trust, he learns they’re running with good reason. Now he must decide how to help the women escape the clutches of a man determined to do anything to get them back under his thumb.
I loved the vivid descriptions of the Oregon Trail. There were so many dangerous situations they find themselves in and I enjoyed the realistic portrayal of what it might have been like. The slow build romance between Jake and Beth was so well done. I loved the natural progression that went from suspicion to admiration to love. Beth is such an intelligent heroine and I loved her bravery but also her determination. Her poor mother Ginnie as well as Kat endured so much in the asylum. Ginnie clearly suffers from PTSD and relives those awful memories along the trail. I was also intrigued by Sebastian who’s the wounded man they rescue. I can’t wait to see what happens with him and Kat.
There were moments I was on pins and needles because part of the book is told from Thaddeus Rutledge’s perspective. You just know he’s going to catch up with his wife and daughter sooner than later. Having his POV added a chilling aspect to the story,
All in all a fabulous historical Western romance that kept me quickly turning the pages. Can’t wait to find out what happens in the next book. I received an advanced complimentary copy from the publisher through AustenProse PR. All opinions are my own and voluntarily provided. 4 1/2 stars!
Beth Rutledge just helped her mother and a friend escape from the insane asylum they were wrongfully imprisoned in. She’s been working for months to find a way to outsmart her conniving, ruthless father. With the railroads spreading all across the U.S., she’s chosen the last place her father might look for them, on one of the last, few wagon trains heading West.
Jake Holt is a wagon train scout determined to make this his last trip along the Oregon Trail. He’s anxious to get back to the nice property waiting for him in Oregon. The three women who join the wagon train along with an injured gentleman raise his suspicions. As he gains Beth’s trust, he learns they’re running with good reason. Now he must decide how to help the women escape the clutches of a man determined to do anything to get them back under his thumb.
I loved the vivid descriptions of the Oregon Trail. There were so many dangerous situations they find themselves in and I enjoyed the realistic portrayal of what it might have been like. The slow build romance between Jake and Beth was so well done. I loved the natural progression that went from suspicion to admiration to love. Beth is such an intelligent heroine and I loved her bravery but also her determination. Her poor mother Ginnie as well as Kat endured so much in the asylum. Ginnie clearly suffers from PTSD and relives those awful memories along the trail. I was also intrigued by Sebastian who’s the wounded man they rescue. I can’t wait to see what happens with him and Kat.
There were moments I was on pins and needles because part of the book is told from Thaddeus Rutledge’s perspective. You just know he’s going to catch up with his wife and daughter sooner than later. Having his POV added a chilling aspect to the story,
All in all a fabulous historical Western romance that kept me quickly turning the pages. Can’t wait to find out what happens in the next book. I received an advanced complimentary copy from the publisher through AustenProse PR. All opinions are my own and voluntarily provided. 4 1/2 stars!
January 8, 2024
I always love diving into the old west with Mary Connealy! This time we got to join a wagon train and venture into unexplored areas of Idaho. There is a lot going on in this book as it introduces a new series. As you've read in the synopsis, Beth sneaks her mother with help from the new friend Kat out of the asylum and they go on the run from her father who put her there. Thomas Rutledge is a nasty piece of work. (shiver)
Sebastian is the quirky character who is the odd man out in their rough group--and I am curious to know what his invention actually is. I read the sneak peak for next book in the series and am tickled that we will get BOTH Sebastian and Kat's story.
It is hard to think that there were such rules during that time period regarding committing a wife to an asylum, yet plenty to document that it was true. Such horrible inhumane places. NOt much better than internment camps. and I don't say that lightly.
Mary wove beautiful imagery with her painting of the land as they travelled. And there were webs of faith scattered throughout the book--even though it wasn't in the main limelight.
4 stars. I look forward to the rest of the series.
*I received a complimentary ARC from the publishers and NetGalley. I wasn't required to write a positive review and all opinions are my own.
Sebastian is the quirky character who is the odd man out in their rough group--and I am curious to know what his invention actually is. I read the sneak peak for next book in the series and am tickled that we will get BOTH Sebastian and Kat's story.
It is hard to think that there were such rules during that time period regarding committing a wife to an asylum, yet plenty to document that it was true. Such horrible inhumane places. NOt much better than internment camps. and I don't say that lightly.
Mary wove beautiful imagery with her painting of the land as they travelled. And there were webs of faith scattered throughout the book--even though it wasn't in the main limelight.
4 stars. I look forward to the rest of the series.
*I received a complimentary ARC from the publishers and NetGalley. I wasn't required to write a positive review and all opinions are my own.
February 16, 2024
There's something about this story that really resonated with me. I feel like the author was intentional and thoughtful with the themes and difficulties of the characters and the era. The railroads have made travel to the West more accessible and swift, and the wagon trains are tapering off. It provides Beth and her mother an opportunity to hide in plain sight as her father assumes they would escape via rail travel. I enjoyed the people they meet and become close to on their journey, and loved the way Oscar, a former employee, showed his loyalty and decency by aiding Beth in her plans and supporting them on the trail. Jake and Beth have great chemistry, and their relationship and romance developed slowly and naturally as they work together through all the obstacles along the way. There is anticipation of an impending altercation as Beth's father closes in and we have some passages from his villainous perspective. Overall, the pace is steady and I appreciated the character growth as well as the details of the journey. I look forward to continuing the story with the next book, following Sebastian, a mysterious inventor they rescued and brought on the trail, and Kat, who escaped the asylum with Beth's mother.
Disclosure statement: A complimentary copy of this book was provided from a tour group, publisher, publicist, or author, including NetGalley, OR was borrowed from the library, including OverDrive, OR borrowed from Kindle Unlimited, OR purchased. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are unbiased and my own.
Disclosure statement: A complimentary copy of this book was provided from a tour group, publisher, publicist, or author, including NetGalley, OR was borrowed from the library, including OverDrive, OR borrowed from Kindle Unlimited, OR purchased. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are unbiased and my own.
March 4, 2024
A daring rescue from an insane asylum and that is just the beginning of an epic adventure on the Oregon Trail with evil men dogging their path. Mary Connealy’s Inspirational Western Romances have long been on my radar to try, but the new Western Lights series opener, Chasing the Horizon, was my first opportunity. Imagine my chagrin when I started reading and didn’t want to stop. Oh yes, dear friends, I’d waited too long to discover a gem of a writer.
Chasing the Horizon is told mostly from Beth Rutledge’s point of view as this intrepid young woman schemes for three years to rescue her hapless mother from the insane asylum where her evil, ruthless father placed his wife when she wouldn’t knuckle under and meekly hand over the inheritance meant for their daughter. With the help of dear friends, Beth and Ginny- along with a couple of extra surprises- join a wagon train headed west.
Beth shares the narration with tough and capable wagon train scout, Jake Holt. Jake is on his last wagon train. The era of the wagon trains over the trail is over now that the transcontinental railroad has gone through and he’s ready to finally settle. He is attracted to the beautiful, intriguing Beth who has a secret mysterious past and a willing spirit to take up western pioneer life and ranching.
And, the third narrator is Beth’s villain of a father who is determined to punish both the women for escaping him and once for all get his filthy hands on their inheritance. His wife’s family might have been fooled when he turned on the charm to win a wealthy wife of good family to give him a leg up, but they saw through him in time to tie up the family money so he couldn’t touch it- unless he forces the women to give it up voluntarily.
The chilling insane asylum situation of Ginny and the even more secretive Kat who came with her, the hard journey along the trail, and the fear of what was coming behind them made this a riveting read. The author displayed her work in researching the historical elements involved and showed a gift for writing it all organically into the story.
The characters were well crafted, particularly Ginny who was working through her nightmares and learning to be a useful woman on the trail. Beth was so capable and, because of growing up the way she did, learned to be strong and independent quite young even if she came from wealth. The mother-daughter dynamics were different for this pair. I appreciated the ‘found family’ camaraderie they formed with the Collins brothers and the O’Toole family on the trail. The bad guys were not even shades of gray and truly vile, but I appreciated that their characters and motives were colored in so that their threat to Beth and Ginny felt even more real.
Beth and Jake’s romance grew along the way and felt like one element of several rather than the main event. I enjoyed seeing their respect and work together on the trail lead to the trust and love that became a solid, foundation right when it needed to.
This is an inspirational fiction and prayers, trust in God, and the assumption that several are Christians is part of the story, but, like the romance, its molded into the fabric with the rest.
Chasing the Horizon is a series opener and carries the story so far with a couple dangling threads and the hint that others in the group will have their story take the forefront next. I loved this beginning and will wait for the next book with great anticipation. Those who love sweet romance set against a historical western backdrop should pencil this one onto the wish list.
I rec'd an eARC via NetGalley and a finished print copy via Bethany House Publishers to read in exchange for my honest review.
My full review will post at The Reading Frenzy on Feb 26th for the blog tour hosted by Austenprose.
Chasing the Horizon is told mostly from Beth Rutledge’s point of view as this intrepid young woman schemes for three years to rescue her hapless mother from the insane asylum where her evil, ruthless father placed his wife when she wouldn’t knuckle under and meekly hand over the inheritance meant for their daughter. With the help of dear friends, Beth and Ginny- along with a couple of extra surprises- join a wagon train headed west.
Beth shares the narration with tough and capable wagon train scout, Jake Holt. Jake is on his last wagon train. The era of the wagon trains over the trail is over now that the transcontinental railroad has gone through and he’s ready to finally settle. He is attracted to the beautiful, intriguing Beth who has a secret mysterious past and a willing spirit to take up western pioneer life and ranching.
And, the third narrator is Beth’s villain of a father who is determined to punish both the women for escaping him and once for all get his filthy hands on their inheritance. His wife’s family might have been fooled when he turned on the charm to win a wealthy wife of good family to give him a leg up, but they saw through him in time to tie up the family money so he couldn’t touch it- unless he forces the women to give it up voluntarily.
The chilling insane asylum situation of Ginny and the even more secretive Kat who came with her, the hard journey along the trail, and the fear of what was coming behind them made this a riveting read. The author displayed her work in researching the historical elements involved and showed a gift for writing it all organically into the story.
The characters were well crafted, particularly Ginny who was working through her nightmares and learning to be a useful woman on the trail. Beth was so capable and, because of growing up the way she did, learned to be strong and independent quite young even if she came from wealth. The mother-daughter dynamics were different for this pair. I appreciated the ‘found family’ camaraderie they formed with the Collins brothers and the O’Toole family on the trail. The bad guys were not even shades of gray and truly vile, but I appreciated that their characters and motives were colored in so that their threat to Beth and Ginny felt even more real.
Beth and Jake’s romance grew along the way and felt like one element of several rather than the main event. I enjoyed seeing their respect and work together on the trail lead to the trust and love that became a solid, foundation right when it needed to.
This is an inspirational fiction and prayers, trust in God, and the assumption that several are Christians is part of the story, but, like the romance, its molded into the fabric with the rest.
Chasing the Horizon is a series opener and carries the story so far with a couple dangling threads and the hint that others in the group will have their story take the forefront next. I loved this beginning and will wait for the next book with great anticipation. Those who love sweet romance set against a historical western backdrop should pencil this one onto the wish list.
I rec'd an eARC via NetGalley and a finished print copy via Bethany House Publishers to read in exchange for my honest review.
My full review will post at The Reading Frenzy on Feb 26th for the blog tour hosted by Austenprose.
March 4, 2024
A new series by Mary Connealy?
Insane asylums? Wagon trains? Sinkholes? Pinkertons? Hunky wagon train scouts?
YES PLEASE!!
I loved the character of Beth from the moment I met her on the pages of Chasing the Horizon, bravely rescuing her mother from the insane asylum to which Beth’s father had her unfairly committed. Not batting an eye (or much of one, anyway lol) when her mother brings along another escapee named Kat… or when Kat rescues a gunshot victim along the way and adds him to their ramshackle party too. Beth’s compassionate heart and warm personality make her a good friend to those they join up with on the wagon train, including a devastated family and that hunky wagon train scout I mentioned earlier. Her father is a formidable foe to be sure, but her inner strength ultimately makes her the bigger threat. I really admired Beth and the way she handled the situations life has handed her.
And of course I loved the romance thread between Beth and Jake, a bit more in the background of the story than I usually prefer but in the context of setting up this series it worked well and still had enough swoon to make me smile. Jake is a great guy, a hero in every sense – something we come to appreciate in ever-deepening ways as secrets are revealed and decisions are made. His steady & unquestioning support of Beth, her mother, and their makeshift family as they continue to run from Beth’s father makes him even swoonier, in my opinion. He – and the Collins brothers – stand in stark contrast to Beth’s father when it comes to integrity, courage, and heart, and I enjoyed getting to know them all.
Bottom Line: Chasing the Horizon by Mary Connealy is a delightful western frontier adventure! The plucky heroine and swoony hero are a good match, and their romance is sweet and straightforward. But it’s the hodgepodge of uniquely-layered supporting characters and the ever-present dangers from without (Beth’s father) and within (the Oregon Trail) that had me glued to the pages this time around. After all, we aren’t that far removed from the days when it was oh-so-easy to have an uncooperative relative (like a wife who spoke out against slavery and wouldn’t give her husband access to her trust fund) committed to an insane asylum based solely on your say-so, and I found that element of the plot quite intriguing. I can’t wait to learn more about Kat’s story in book two, and I’m just as eager to see what happens with several enemies that are still at large. An entertaining read from start to finish and a great series starter that has me impatiently waiting for Toward the Dawn‘s release in June!
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)
first reviewed at Reading Is My SuperPower
Insane asylums? Wagon trains? Sinkholes? Pinkertons? Hunky wagon train scouts?
YES PLEASE!!
I loved the character of Beth from the moment I met her on the pages of Chasing the Horizon, bravely rescuing her mother from the insane asylum to which Beth’s father had her unfairly committed. Not batting an eye (or much of one, anyway lol) when her mother brings along another escapee named Kat… or when Kat rescues a gunshot victim along the way and adds him to their ramshackle party too. Beth’s compassionate heart and warm personality make her a good friend to those they join up with on the wagon train, including a devastated family and that hunky wagon train scout I mentioned earlier. Her father is a formidable foe to be sure, but her inner strength ultimately makes her the bigger threat. I really admired Beth and the way she handled the situations life has handed her.
And of course I loved the romance thread between Beth and Jake, a bit more in the background of the story than I usually prefer but in the context of setting up this series it worked well and still had enough swoon to make me smile. Jake is a great guy, a hero in every sense – something we come to appreciate in ever-deepening ways as secrets are revealed and decisions are made. His steady & unquestioning support of Beth, her mother, and their makeshift family as they continue to run from Beth’s father makes him even swoonier, in my opinion. He – and the Collins brothers – stand in stark contrast to Beth’s father when it comes to integrity, courage, and heart, and I enjoyed getting to know them all.
Bottom Line: Chasing the Horizon by Mary Connealy is a delightful western frontier adventure! The plucky heroine and swoony hero are a good match, and their romance is sweet and straightforward. But it’s the hodgepodge of uniquely-layered supporting characters and the ever-present dangers from without (Beth’s father) and within (the Oregon Trail) that had me glued to the pages this time around. After all, we aren’t that far removed from the days when it was oh-so-easy to have an uncooperative relative (like a wife who spoke out against slavery and wouldn’t give her husband access to her trust fund) committed to an insane asylum based solely on your say-so, and I found that element of the plot quite intriguing. I can’t wait to learn more about Kat’s story in book two, and I’m just as eager to see what happens with several enemies that are still at large. An entertaining read from start to finish and a great series starter that has me impatiently waiting for Toward the Dawn‘s release in June!
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)
first reviewed at Reading Is My SuperPower
February 23, 2024
4.5 Stars
Ever since her mother was wrongly committed to an insane asylum by her awful father, Beth Rutledge has been carefully planning a way to get her out. She needs to get them both away from his cruel domination. Heading west on a wagon train isn’t something her father would ever expect, so they pose as sisters and settle into the long journey ahead. Hopefully, they can stay under the radar, because Beth knows her father will never stop looking for them.
Jake Hoult is one of the wagon scouts helping the train make the journey out west. A trip he’s done many times over. He suspects there’s more to Beth’s story. It seems these women are running from danger, so he keeps alert and observant.
As the days and months pass by, Jake and Beth become close, discussing hopes, dreams and the things needed to make their plans successful. Their sweet romance filled me with joy!
It chills me not so long ago, a woman could be committed easily by her husband or father on their word alone. Often for flimsy excuses. The treatments sounded brutal and sadistic, and my heart broke for Beth’s mother and what she endured. Thankfully, the recollections were a small part of the story.
Chasing the Horizon was an exciting, suspenseful adventure! I find stories about the wagon trains making their way out west fascinating! What an undertaking it would’ve been! I was thoroughly engrossed in Beth and her mother’s journey. Beth’s father was an awful man, and I was on edge over his continued pursuit, but his nasty character didn’t go unnoticed. I was pleased with how it all turned out and I’m looking forward to the next in the series featuring Kat and Sebastian in Toward the Dawn!
I voluntarily read an advanced readers copy courtesy of Bethany House Publishers. All opinions are my own.
Ever since her mother was wrongly committed to an insane asylum by her awful father, Beth Rutledge has been carefully planning a way to get her out. She needs to get them both away from his cruel domination. Heading west on a wagon train isn’t something her father would ever expect, so they pose as sisters and settle into the long journey ahead. Hopefully, they can stay under the radar, because Beth knows her father will never stop looking for them.
Jake Hoult is one of the wagon scouts helping the train make the journey out west. A trip he’s done many times over. He suspects there’s more to Beth’s story. It seems these women are running from danger, so he keeps alert and observant.
As the days and months pass by, Jake and Beth become close, discussing hopes, dreams and the things needed to make their plans successful. Their sweet romance filled me with joy!
It chills me not so long ago, a woman could be committed easily by her husband or father on their word alone. Often for flimsy excuses. The treatments sounded brutal and sadistic, and my heart broke for Beth’s mother and what she endured. Thankfully, the recollections were a small part of the story.
Chasing the Horizon was an exciting, suspenseful adventure! I find stories about the wagon trains making their way out west fascinating! What an undertaking it would’ve been! I was thoroughly engrossed in Beth and her mother’s journey. Beth’s father was an awful man, and I was on edge over his continued pursuit, but his nasty character didn’t go unnoticed. I was pleased with how it all turned out and I’m looking forward to the next in the series featuring Kat and Sebastian in Toward the Dawn!
I voluntarily read an advanced readers copy courtesy of Bethany House Publishers. All opinions are my own.
July 26, 2024
Wow! What an amazing book! There's a daring escape, friendships formed, and mental and physical abuse. There's also the grit and determination of a group of pioneers!
Beth is wonderful! She risks everything to save her mother. Their adventures are sometimes scary, but they work together as a team. I liked Jake right from the start. He's generous with his time and his skills. He's also compassionate and a good listener.
I really enjoyed the imagery! I could picture the wagon train in my mind. Hidden Canyon is definitely a place I'd like to visit! I look forward to the next book in the series!
Beth is wonderful! She risks everything to save her mother. Their adventures are sometimes scary, but they work together as a team. I liked Jake right from the start. He's generous with his time and his skills. He's also compassionate and a good listener.
I really enjoyed the imagery! I could picture the wagon train in my mind. Hidden Canyon is definitely a place I'd like to visit! I look forward to the next book in the series!
February 12, 2024
I love wagon train stories and Mary Connealy writes some of the best westerns.
Ginny and her daughter Beth are posing as sisters and change their name in order to escape their husband and father who wants to return his wife to an insane asylum in order to acquire her wealth. Beth and Ginny join a wagon train and make plans to homestead far away from danger. But danger comes with the territory in the untamed west.
The author recounts the hardships of the journey including a perilous water crossing. But she shows the resilience of the wagon train pioneers and how they all pull together.
Filled with sustaining faith, unforeseen circumstances and increasing threats, this book grabbed me from the first page. It was exciting, informative and wrapped up one romance with the hint of another romance to come in book two. There are characters to love and some to hate. It will be gratifying to see an evil person thwarted in upcoming books.
* A complimentary copy of this book was provided by Bethany House on behalf of the author. I was not required to post a favorable review. All opinions are mine alone.*
Ginny and her daughter Beth are posing as sisters and change their name in order to escape their husband and father who wants to return his wife to an insane asylum in order to acquire her wealth. Beth and Ginny join a wagon train and make plans to homestead far away from danger. But danger comes with the territory in the untamed west.
The author recounts the hardships of the journey including a perilous water crossing. But she shows the resilience of the wagon train pioneers and how they all pull together.
Filled with sustaining faith, unforeseen circumstances and increasing threats, this book grabbed me from the first page. It was exciting, informative and wrapped up one romance with the hint of another romance to come in book two. There are characters to love and some to hate. It will be gratifying to see an evil person thwarted in upcoming books.
* A complimentary copy of this book was provided by Bethany House on behalf of the author. I was not required to post a favorable review. All opinions are mine alone.*
January 20, 2024
Loved this story! I was intrigued right from the beginning with Beth helping her mother Ginny escape from the insane asylum. Then they joined the wagon train headed to Oregon with some other people and pose as sisters with different name. While on the trail Beth meets Jake, who helps people to get to their destination. Beth and her mother hope to outrun her father, who will be hunting them down to put her mother back in the asylum. Jake becomes suspicious of the sisters and when he finds out the truth helps them. I liked how engaging this story was. Lots of different situations happen in this western adventure. I loved Beth and Jake, they are a great couple. This book ends on a cliffhanger, ahh! But now I really want to read the next one! Great Christian content throughout! Definitely recommend!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Content: violence/mistreatment in the asylum , stabbing and shooting
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from netgalley . All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Content: violence/mistreatment in the asylum , stabbing and shooting
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from netgalley . All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
March 5, 2024
CHASING THE HORIZON is a story about a daughter and mother and their desperate escape from Chicago in a wagon train. It's about family, both by blood and found, about loss, freedom, friendship, faith and love. Set towards the end of wagon journeys when trains are taking over in the US and when laws are slowly changing to prohibit people being sent to asylums against their will and when they're sane. Readers will fall in love with these characters and cheer them on as they journey.
I came to really like these characters. I completely adored Beth and Jake. They were both solid, hard-working, goodhearted people. I loved how Beth learned all sorts of skills and gained as much knowledge as she could for what she thought she might need to support herself and her mom out west. She was both street smart and intelligent with a fierce heart. Jake was your epitome of a cowboy. Rugged, handsome, strong, a crack-shot, full of wisdom and good intuition. I also liked the other characters: Ginny (Beth's mom), Kat, Sebastian and the Collins brothers. There was also the O'Toole family that were a bit more on the sideline.
I also enjoyed the plot. It moved at a fairly steady pace with a few places that were more climatic. There was a sense of suspense and danger during several parts, countered by other moments of peace, friendship and romance. There were also a few sad spots where the group faced loss. So, plenty of emotions in this story. The inspirational elements weren't overly prominent and felt like what you'd most likely have in most historical western romances with God fearing people. The romance slowly built over lots of interaction and conversations between the two love interests, which is the best way for it to happen. I'll definitely be reading the next book to find out what happens next with these characters.
I don't have much to criticize about this story. I missed this author's usual humor that wasn't present, but that was more of a disappointed expectation. I think the only major criticism I have is that the story just ends. It doesn't feel like a cliffhanger, but more like the book isn't finished. I was reading an ebook version and I actual checked a print version to be sure I wasn't missing pages or something. I think there could have been a page or two more or another chapter to tie things up until book two. There is a teaser for the second book that literally continues the scene that was cut off at this end of this book, but that felt off to me too. It was very uncharacteristic for a book from this author and publisher to end like this.
In the end, was it what I wished for? This was a consistently enjoyable story. There were some difficult topics brought up and all handled well. The characters were all likable, with some inspiring moments, some suspense, and sweet romance. Definitely a recommended read for fans of the author and genre.
Content: Some violence, but clean.
Source: I received a complimentary copy from the publisher through Austenprose PR, which did not require a positive review. All opinions are my own.
I came to really like these characters. I completely adored Beth and Jake. They were both solid, hard-working, goodhearted people. I loved how Beth learned all sorts of skills and gained as much knowledge as she could for what she thought she might need to support herself and her mom out west. She was both street smart and intelligent with a fierce heart. Jake was your epitome of a cowboy. Rugged, handsome, strong, a crack-shot, full of wisdom and good intuition. I also liked the other characters: Ginny (Beth's mom), Kat, Sebastian and the Collins brothers. There was also the O'Toole family that were a bit more on the sideline.
I also enjoyed the plot. It moved at a fairly steady pace with a few places that were more climatic. There was a sense of suspense and danger during several parts, countered by other moments of peace, friendship and romance. There were also a few sad spots where the group faced loss. So, plenty of emotions in this story. The inspirational elements weren't overly prominent and felt like what you'd most likely have in most historical western romances with God fearing people. The romance slowly built over lots of interaction and conversations between the two love interests, which is the best way for it to happen. I'll definitely be reading the next book to find out what happens next with these characters.
I don't have much to criticize about this story. I missed this author's usual humor that wasn't present, but that was more of a disappointed expectation. I think the only major criticism I have is that the story just ends. It doesn't feel like a cliffhanger, but more like the book isn't finished. I was reading an ebook version and I actual checked a print version to be sure I wasn't missing pages or something. I think there could have been a page or two more or another chapter to tie things up until book two. There is a teaser for the second book that literally continues the scene that was cut off at this end of this book, but that felt off to me too. It was very uncharacteristic for a book from this author and publisher to end like this.
In the end, was it what I wished for? This was a consistently enjoyable story. There were some difficult topics brought up and all handled well. The characters were all likable, with some inspiring moments, some suspense, and sweet romance. Definitely a recommended read for fans of the author and genre.
Content: Some violence, but clean.
Source: I received a complimentary copy from the publisher through Austenprose PR, which did not require a positive review. All opinions are my own.
April 16, 2024
Another amazing book by Mary Connelly! Set against the backdrop of the rugged Oregon Trail, this novel is a rollercoaster of mystery, courage, and the true essence of family.
From the get-go, Connealy whisks you away on a journey filled with vivid descriptions and heart-pounding suspense. Beth, our fearless main character, whose determination to right the wrongs done to her mother, sets the stage for an epic tale of resilience and love.
As Beth aids her mother’s daring escape from the clutches of an asylum, she discovers that family isn’t just about blood ties, but about the bonds we forge with those who stand by us through thick and thin. Alongside a band of newfound allies, including the charming Jake, Beth navigates the treacherous trail, facing dangers at every turn. I loved all the supporting characters in this story.
Connealy masterfully weaves in themes of women’s rights and the hardships they endured during this era, shedding light on a chilling reality of the past. Through the menacing pursuit and POV of a chilling villain, Thaddeus Rutledge, keeps you on the edge of your seat until the very last page as he relentlessly pursued his wife and daughter.
And oh, the romance! While Beth and Jake’s love story may seem sudden, it feels like a natural fit amidst the unpredictability of trail life. Their admiration for each other adds a tender touch to their whirlwind adventure.
But beware, dear reader, for this tale ends on a tantalizing cliffhanger, leaving you craving more. I am fairly new to Mary’s books but have loved every one I have read so far!
I received a complimentary copy of the book from the publisher to read and review. All thoughts are mine.
From the get-go, Connealy whisks you away on a journey filled with vivid descriptions and heart-pounding suspense. Beth, our fearless main character, whose determination to right the wrongs done to her mother, sets the stage for an epic tale of resilience and love.
As Beth aids her mother’s daring escape from the clutches of an asylum, she discovers that family isn’t just about blood ties, but about the bonds we forge with those who stand by us through thick and thin. Alongside a band of newfound allies, including the charming Jake, Beth navigates the treacherous trail, facing dangers at every turn. I loved all the supporting characters in this story.
Connealy masterfully weaves in themes of women’s rights and the hardships they endured during this era, shedding light on a chilling reality of the past. Through the menacing pursuit and POV of a chilling villain, Thaddeus Rutledge, keeps you on the edge of your seat until the very last page as he relentlessly pursued his wife and daughter.
And oh, the romance! While Beth and Jake’s love story may seem sudden, it feels like a natural fit amidst the unpredictability of trail life. Their admiration for each other adds a tender touch to their whirlwind adventure.
But beware, dear reader, for this tale ends on a tantalizing cliffhanger, leaving you craving more. I am fairly new to Mary’s books but have loved every one I have read so far!
I received a complimentary copy of the book from the publisher to read and review. All thoughts are mine.
May 14, 2024
This was a nice, quick read! The western elements with the traveling wagon train and the way the travelers banded together as well as the Bible elements were the highlights for me. The villian in this was absolutely nutso, and the circumstances of the plot were almost humorously ironic to me, personally. Unfortunately, the pacing in general in this was weird to me with a lot of slow parts, and the characters and writing were sort of surface level for me. At this time, I still plan to continue the series.
September 17, 2025
This book had promise, but ultimately fell very flat. I would describe the entire thing as “half-baked”. It was as if the author had a decent idea for a story, but didn’t know how to manifest it. The characters are all incredibly boring and I had a hard time relating or even rooting for them. There was no character development, and there was no build up for the “romance”. All of it felt forced. The writing was ok. But be prepared to rehash the same three plot points over and over again.
February 15, 2024
4.5 stars
A few years ago I read a book completely out of my typical historical fiction time period, Where the Lost Wander. I absolutely LOVED this book for so many reasons and I have since been looking for ‘the right’ book to read next that might fit within that time period. There aren’t a lot of popular historical fiction books set in the American West that draw me in. Don’t get me wrong I love the American West from a historical standpoint and I grew up watching all the cowboy TV shows (Dr Quinn and Young Riders I am looking at you!) but it’s typically not a genre of book that I go in search of.
When this book came across my desk I was so excited because it features a love story, an adventure, and the Oregon Trail as a backdrop! I live in Oregon and growing up The Oregon Trail video game was super popular and I was always so proud to share my state history with friends. But the Oregon Trail from a historical standpoint doesn’t really lend itself to a backdrop for romances in books. But after reading Where the Lost Wander I had hope that other books would come from its popularity that would include romance and adventure in the same way that that book did.
That was why I was onboard with reading this book! I loved the mix which was promised in the summary, plus I know Bethany House Publishing consistently has solid historical romances that aren’t bodice rippers etc. I was looking for something with a little more substance that would transport me to a different time in a rugged location with interesting characters and great storytelling and I got just that.
First of all, I have not heard of Mary Connealy before. I don’t know any of her other books and honestly I thought this was a debut series/book before I started reading. Right away I noticed that it was well written with clear purpose and intent, and I went in search of more about the author and discovered that she had written a number of other Western books/romances. Instantly I downloaded a few more of her books. I really enjoyed her storytelling style and history that she added within the book and am excited to see this particular series is going to be a new series so that means more to enjoy from this world but I also wanted to explore other books by her.
This time of year I always start to feel the travel bug in my soul, so I always tend to look for books that offer a little ‘vacation’ for me in their pages from Feb to March. This book did a wonderful job incorporating the landscape of the Oregon Trail and all the beautiful landmarks along the way. Not to mention she really highlighted the spirit of adventure which I LOVED and was looking for in this book. The setting and history really came to life and I feel a Western kick coming on in my reading world! As well developed and written this book was, the beginning had me a little confused and it did take me a couple of chapters to sort out what was going on and track the characters but once I got the lay of the land I felt immersed in the story and the setting/history within the book.
As I mentioned this book is part of a new series and I think this series is going to want to be read in order. There were some loose ends that set up for the next book in the series and the stories of those characters but there is certainly going to be carry over from this book to the next in the series. I think this book (and hopefully the rest of the series) will give readers a lot to escape into—-an exciting story of adventure rich in history, a charming romance, a well drawn villain, and great characters that we will get to meet in upcoming books. I am so glad that I said yes to this book, it was really great and I can’t wait for the next book—-in the meantime don’t mind me while I read all the Western books from Connealy!
A few years ago I read a book completely out of my typical historical fiction time period, Where the Lost Wander. I absolutely LOVED this book for so many reasons and I have since been looking for ‘the right’ book to read next that might fit within that time period. There aren’t a lot of popular historical fiction books set in the American West that draw me in. Don’t get me wrong I love the American West from a historical standpoint and I grew up watching all the cowboy TV shows (Dr Quinn and Young Riders I am looking at you!) but it’s typically not a genre of book that I go in search of.
When this book came across my desk I was so excited because it features a love story, an adventure, and the Oregon Trail as a backdrop! I live in Oregon and growing up The Oregon Trail video game was super popular and I was always so proud to share my state history with friends. But the Oregon Trail from a historical standpoint doesn’t really lend itself to a backdrop for romances in books. But after reading Where the Lost Wander I had hope that other books would come from its popularity that would include romance and adventure in the same way that that book did.
That was why I was onboard with reading this book! I loved the mix which was promised in the summary, plus I know Bethany House Publishing consistently has solid historical romances that aren’t bodice rippers etc. I was looking for something with a little more substance that would transport me to a different time in a rugged location with interesting characters and great storytelling and I got just that.
First of all, I have not heard of Mary Connealy before. I don’t know any of her other books and honestly I thought this was a debut series/book before I started reading. Right away I noticed that it was well written with clear purpose and intent, and I went in search of more about the author and discovered that she had written a number of other Western books/romances. Instantly I downloaded a few more of her books. I really enjoyed her storytelling style and history that she added within the book and am excited to see this particular series is going to be a new series so that means more to enjoy from this world but I also wanted to explore other books by her.
This time of year I always start to feel the travel bug in my soul, so I always tend to look for books that offer a little ‘vacation’ for me in their pages from Feb to March. This book did a wonderful job incorporating the landscape of the Oregon Trail and all the beautiful landmarks along the way. Not to mention she really highlighted the spirit of adventure which I LOVED and was looking for in this book. The setting and history really came to life and I feel a Western kick coming on in my reading world! As well developed and written this book was, the beginning had me a little confused and it did take me a couple of chapters to sort out what was going on and track the characters but once I got the lay of the land I felt immersed in the story and the setting/history within the book.
As I mentioned this book is part of a new series and I think this series is going to want to be read in order. There were some loose ends that set up for the next book in the series and the stories of those characters but there is certainly going to be carry over from this book to the next in the series. I think this book (and hopefully the rest of the series) will give readers a lot to escape into—-an exciting story of adventure rich in history, a charming romance, a well drawn villain, and great characters that we will get to meet in upcoming books. I am so glad that I said yes to this book, it was really great and I can’t wait for the next book—-in the meantime don’t mind me while I read all the Western books from Connealy!
February 25, 2024
4.5*
I have a newly acquired love of Westerns thanks to Taylor Sheridan’s TV series, 1883. So I was delighted to return to this period of American history and embark on another wagon trail to Oregon - in fact, one of the last ones thanks to the new rail line which would see wagon trails become obsolete.
“You seemed to want to be away from trouble, too,” he added. “Did that trouble follow you all the way out here?”
This is the first book in a new series by Mary Connealy. It covers a few themes with a range of primary and secondary characters which made this read multidimensional. Firstly is the journey on the wagon trail itself. As one can imagine there are plenty of hardships, majestic scenery and day-to-day life on the trail with these true pioneers working together when times are tough.
‘They rolled into and across the prairies of Wyoming. For days, weeks, months, the horses and cattle plodded on. The early excitement among the pioneers had been given a quick death … Now it faded to dull drudgery as each day stretched out the same. The only break in the sameness came when terrible storms whipped across the plains. Then they longed for the boring sameness to return.’
Secondly, there is a fabulous plot with mother and daughter escaping and running away from an all controlling husband/father. Underpinning this is the awful recount of how the husband had placed Eugenia ‘Ginny’ in an insane asylum for no other reason than a form of control. This is the story of their escape and how they felt that moving West was their only hope of freedom.
‘So they were leaving trouble behind. So be it. Many who headed west were doing the same. Just so long as they didn’t bring trouble with them’
Finally, there is some romance which is very understated. I like that the focus remains on the above two factors. The thrill of being on the run deserves precedence but all up, the tale is well balanced and most engaging. Be warned - there are some incomplete storylines especially regarding secondary characters. This book definitely lends itself to future installments, however, this was a story I could easily follow and a series I would willingly return to.
This review is based on a complimentary copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. The quoted material may have changed in the final release.
I have a newly acquired love of Westerns thanks to Taylor Sheridan’s TV series, 1883. So I was delighted to return to this period of American history and embark on another wagon trail to Oregon - in fact, one of the last ones thanks to the new rail line which would see wagon trails become obsolete.
“You seemed to want to be away from trouble, too,” he added. “Did that trouble follow you all the way out here?”
This is the first book in a new series by Mary Connealy. It covers a few themes with a range of primary and secondary characters which made this read multidimensional. Firstly is the journey on the wagon trail itself. As one can imagine there are plenty of hardships, majestic scenery and day-to-day life on the trail with these true pioneers working together when times are tough.
‘They rolled into and across the prairies of Wyoming. For days, weeks, months, the horses and cattle plodded on. The early excitement among the pioneers had been given a quick death … Now it faded to dull drudgery as each day stretched out the same. The only break in the sameness came when terrible storms whipped across the plains. Then they longed for the boring sameness to return.’
Secondly, there is a fabulous plot with mother and daughter escaping and running away from an all controlling husband/father. Underpinning this is the awful recount of how the husband had placed Eugenia ‘Ginny’ in an insane asylum for no other reason than a form of control. This is the story of their escape and how they felt that moving West was their only hope of freedom.
‘So they were leaving trouble behind. So be it. Many who headed west were doing the same. Just so long as they didn’t bring trouble with them’
Finally, there is some romance which is very understated. I like that the focus remains on the above two factors. The thrill of being on the run deserves precedence but all up, the tale is well balanced and most engaging. Be warned - there are some incomplete storylines especially regarding secondary characters. This book definitely lends itself to future installments, however, this was a story I could easily follow and a series I would willingly return to.
This review is based on a complimentary copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. The quoted material may have changed in the final release.
February 18, 2024
I love Western romances, and this one was so enjoyable! It’s full of adventure, danger, love, loyalty, friendship, and a sweet romance.
After being put in an insane asylum by her despicable husband, Thaddeus Rutledge, Ginny is able to escape with the help of her daughter, Beth. They know Thaddeus is going to come after them, and so they leave on a wagon train heading west on the Oregon Trail, using fake names and hoping to start new lives.
The author did an excellent job of bringing life on the trail to life. It was full of challenges, hard work, and sometimes heartbreaking tragedy. But it also was a place of pristine beauty and unspoiled wilderness. I loved the imagery she created in her descriptions!
I also loved the sweet romance between Beth and Jake, the wagon train scout. Their attraction was immediate, but it grew at a nice, gradual pace.
The viewpoint changed from Ginnie, Beth, Jake, and Thaddeus. This gave a nice perspective of different characters, and helped to build the suspense and tension as you knew vindictive Thaddeus was in pursuit of his wife and daughter.
I feel like I always learn something factual from historical fiction, and with this one it was how few rights a wife had with her husband. At his whim, she could easily be locked up in an asylum. I felt such anger and frustration on behalf of Ginny and every other woman who was so unfairly treated. I was certainly pulling for her to get away, and to find healing from what she had been through.
This book is an intriguing and engaging beginning to a new series, and I’m looking forward to other characters getting their own stories!
Thanks to Bethany House Publishing and Austenprose PR for my eARC. All opinions expressed are my own.
After being put in an insane asylum by her despicable husband, Thaddeus Rutledge, Ginny is able to escape with the help of her daughter, Beth. They know Thaddeus is going to come after them, and so they leave on a wagon train heading west on the Oregon Trail, using fake names and hoping to start new lives.
The author did an excellent job of bringing life on the trail to life. It was full of challenges, hard work, and sometimes heartbreaking tragedy. But it also was a place of pristine beauty and unspoiled wilderness. I loved the imagery she created in her descriptions!
I also loved the sweet romance between Beth and Jake, the wagon train scout. Their attraction was immediate, but it grew at a nice, gradual pace.
The viewpoint changed from Ginnie, Beth, Jake, and Thaddeus. This gave a nice perspective of different characters, and helped to build the suspense and tension as you knew vindictive Thaddeus was in pursuit of his wife and daughter.
I feel like I always learn something factual from historical fiction, and with this one it was how few rights a wife had with her husband. At his whim, she could easily be locked up in an asylum. I felt such anger and frustration on behalf of Ginny and every other woman who was so unfairly treated. I was certainly pulling for her to get away, and to find healing from what she had been through.
This book is an intriguing and engaging beginning to a new series, and I’m looking forward to other characters getting their own stories!
Thanks to Bethany House Publishing and Austenprose PR for my eARC. All opinions expressed are my own.
February 24, 2025
When Elizabeth Rutledge's father places her mother, Eugenia, in an insane asylum because she would not hand over her inheritance and Elizabeth's to him, Elizabeth and her father's former carriage driver, Oscar Collins, plot Eugenia's escape. When she arrives at their meeting point, she brings with her another escapee, Kat. Elizabeth, now Beth Collins, now renames her mother Ginnie Collins and adapts their escape. Leaving Chicago as cooks on a cattle boat, they go to Independence, Missouri, and end up hiding a man who has been shot in their supply cart to join the wagon train that Oscar and his brothers have taken westward.
This is wagon train scout Jake Holt's last trip before settling in Oregon on his homestead. He longs to find a wife. He waits for Oscar's "sisters" to join them eagerly. Ginnie and Beth seem to come from money more so than their "brothers," and Jake recognizes that they are running from something and keeps their secrets.
Thaddeus Rutledge hires Pinkertons to search for his rebellious wife and daughter. He needs their money and determines to force them to give up their income. When the director of the insane asylum locates a woman who knows some of Ginny's plans, the woman agrees to give Thaddeus the information bit by bit if he takes her with him.
I thoroughly enjoyed the book and look forward to the sequel when it comes out. Connealy skillfully completes this story while leaving it open for a sequel. Beth, Ginny, Jake, Oscar, and Thaddeus are unique and interesting characters.
This is wagon train scout Jake Holt's last trip before settling in Oregon on his homestead. He longs to find a wife. He waits for Oscar's "sisters" to join them eagerly. Ginnie and Beth seem to come from money more so than their "brothers," and Jake recognizes that they are running from something and keeps their secrets.
Thaddeus Rutledge hires Pinkertons to search for his rebellious wife and daughter. He needs their money and determines to force them to give up their income. When the director of the insane asylum locates a woman who knows some of Ginny's plans, the woman agrees to give Thaddeus the information bit by bit if he takes her with him.
I thoroughly enjoyed the book and look forward to the sequel when it comes out. Connealy skillfully completes this story while leaving it open for a sequel. Beth, Ginny, Jake, Oscar, and Thaddeus are unique and interesting characters.
February 19, 2024
Simple and sweet, this romantic tale of a wagon train heading west is a delight! I admire the courage of Beth as she and her mother escape her villainous father. Her romance with Jake was sweet and lovely, and he makes a great protective hero. I always enjoy a villain’s point of view, so seeing the story unfold from Thaddeus’ point of view at times was interesting. This story brought up deep topics of how those with mental illness were treated before real treatment options were available, and those parts of the story and their details broke my heart. Despite those heavy topics, the overall story was light and enjoyable, with an action packed plot and a lovely romance. I can’t wait to see what happens next for these characters!
I received a copy of this book from the publisher for review purposes. My thoughts are my own. I really did love it!
I received a copy of this book from the publisher for review purposes. My thoughts are my own. I really did love it!
March 31, 2024
3.5⭐️
This was my first Mary Connealy book. I enjoyed it! I agree with others that the romance lacked a bit in development but it didn’t really bother me in this book because it still worked and made sense. And I thought Jake and Beth were cute together. I also feel that it ended kind of weird. The plot had me intrigued and I’m looking forward to the second book:) I’m hoping we will see more from these characters and their life in the Hidden Canyon and what becomes of their story even as we follow other characters in the next book to this trilogy. I’m excited to pick up other Mary Connealy books. It was full of cowboys and country living and I’m here for it🤠
This was my first Mary Connealy book. I enjoyed it! I agree with others that the romance lacked a bit in development but it didn’t really bother me in this book because it still worked and made sense. And I thought Jake and Beth were cute together. I also feel that it ended kind of weird. The plot had me intrigued and I’m looking forward to the second book:) I’m hoping we will see more from these characters and their life in the Hidden Canyon and what becomes of their story even as we follow other characters in the next book to this trilogy. I’m excited to pick up other Mary Connealy books. It was full of cowboys and country living and I’m here for it🤠
February 20, 2024
When her greedy father tried to put her in an asylum, Beth takes matters into her own hands rescuing her mother and joining an Oregon bound wagon train.
I liked how Beth found true friends and allies to help her on her adventure, like Oscar, Kat, and Jake. This was a tougher book for me to read, because Beth's father was just so awful, and I just didn't want to read about him and his scheming.
A great start to a new series, with a full cast of characters. Not as much humor as I am used to from this author, but still a enjoyable story, with strong characters and themes of faith.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
I liked how Beth found true friends and allies to help her on her adventure, like Oscar, Kat, and Jake. This was a tougher book for me to read, because Beth's father was just so awful, and I just didn't want to read about him and his scheming.
A great start to a new series, with a full cast of characters. Not as much humor as I am used to from this author, but still a enjoyable story, with strong characters and themes of faith.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
September 15, 2024
A good read! I enjoyed seeing the trials of these characters, not only on the Oregon Trial but also outside of that and how they had to overcome it. The love story was a little bit rushed but given the circumstances, it made sense. Jake was so sweet and I did like he and Beth’s chemistry. 3.5 stars! ✨
March 21, 2024
Two stars is generous. The plot had so much potential. Who doesn’t love a wagon train romance? Instead, we got NO romance. I’ve never read a romance novel (my favorite genre) with less romance and less believable storylines when it comes to romance. So I definitely feel ripped off that I spent 300 pages on this book. It’s my second by this author, and I swore off her when I read the first book, but I couldn’t resist a wagon train story. Lesson learned.
March 9, 2024
3.5 rounded down —
February 13, 2024
"Chasing the Horizon" by Mary Connealy definitely brought out some emotions in me while reading the book. The main character Elizabeth "Beth" Rutledge and her mother Eugenia aka "Ginny" were fleeing Chicago and the greed of Beth's father. After they flee Chicago, he hires Pinkerton agents to find them and sets off to deal with them himself.
After Beth and Ginny who were posing as sisters join the wagon train heading west, they meet Jake Holt. Jake sees right away something is amiss but it doesn't stop him from wanting to get to know the fierce and intelligent Beth.
The historical details provided in this book were well researched. The characters were well written and some are very likeable and some you just want to scream and throw the book (and more at). The storyline includes parts where GInny and another woman were forcibly put in an asylum and some abuse at the asylum is discussed in the book. The book starts after their escape but there are moments where the PTSD from what they experienced there are discussed.
The setting of final destination is a place I would love to move to! The women have strong friendships and good men that are there to protect them so despite some of the rough stuff, the reader is encouraged by those friendships.
This book definitely leads into #2 in the series and I definitely want to pick up #2 when it comes out later in 2024. Parts of the ending were not completely wrapped up so if the reader likes all endings complete by the end of the book, you may be disappointed. I was not because I know those will likely come out in the next book...so in this case stay tuned!
I received an ARC from Bethany House for the book however all opinions are my own. Thank you to Bethany House and Netgalley for the chance to read this ARC.
After Beth and Ginny who were posing as sisters join the wagon train heading west, they meet Jake Holt. Jake sees right away something is amiss but it doesn't stop him from wanting to get to know the fierce and intelligent Beth.
The historical details provided in this book were well researched. The characters were well written and some are very likeable and some you just want to scream and throw the book (and more at). The storyline includes parts where GInny and another woman were forcibly put in an asylum and some abuse at the asylum is discussed in the book. The book starts after their escape but there are moments where the PTSD from what they experienced there are discussed.
The setting of final destination is a place I would love to move to! The women have strong friendships and good men that are there to protect them so despite some of the rough stuff, the reader is encouraged by those friendships.
This book definitely leads into #2 in the series and I definitely want to pick up #2 when it comes out later in 2024. Parts of the ending were not completely wrapped up so if the reader likes all endings complete by the end of the book, you may be disappointed. I was not because I know those will likely come out in the next book...so in this case stay tuned!
I received an ARC from Bethany House for the book however all opinions are my own. Thank you to Bethany House and Netgalley for the chance to read this ARC.
January 24, 2024
I hadn’t read a historical fiction book with an old Western setting in such a long time! Chasing the Horizon is a gripping story of a daughter helping two women, one of them her mother, escape from an insane asylum that they were unjustly thrown into and treated horribly. On the run from her father and his hired Pinkerton agents, Beth and the women, now with a strange man they’ve rescued in tow, join the wagons headed west on the Oregon Trail to try to make a new life for themselves.
This story felt like it began very abruptly and it took me a bit to really sort out how certain people were connected and what was really going on. However, once I got further into the story and was able to really envision the connections and the setting, I was completely invested and on the edge of my seat the rest of the way through. In fact, I stayed up entirely too late to finish the last few chapters!
The romance between Beth and Jake was really sweet and I wished that there had been a bit more of that, so I’m really excited to get to know them better in the next book of the series. The ending has me wondering so many things about Sebastian and Kat and I can’t wait to find out.
Book #2 of the series, titled “Toward the Dawn,” is expected to be published this June already, so definitely jump to read this first book. You don’t want to miss it! 🙂
Thank you to @netgalley and @bethanyhousefiction for my gifted e-copy of Chasing the Horizon, in exchange for an honest review.
This story felt like it began very abruptly and it took me a bit to really sort out how certain people were connected and what was really going on. However, once I got further into the story and was able to really envision the connections and the setting, I was completely invested and on the edge of my seat the rest of the way through. In fact, I stayed up entirely too late to finish the last few chapters!
The romance between Beth and Jake was really sweet and I wished that there had been a bit more of that, so I’m really excited to get to know them better in the next book of the series. The ending has me wondering so many things about Sebastian and Kat and I can’t wait to find out.
Book #2 of the series, titled “Toward the Dawn,” is expected to be published this June already, so definitely jump to read this first book. You don’t want to miss it! 🙂
Thank you to @netgalley and @bethanyhousefiction for my gifted e-copy of Chasing the Horizon, in exchange for an honest review.
March 23, 2024
This new historical fiction handles several subjects. One, the plight of women (and sometimes men) being wrongfully committed to insane asylums and the atrocious, inhumane treatment they received. Two, evil men who treated women under their care brutally. And three, the courage of pioneers along the wagon trail from east to west and dangers encountered.
As the author weaves this story, her characters are fleshed out giving the reader insight into their character and behavior. We love some and truly hate others. They show strength to overcome and the ability to adjust. Their astounding compassion toward others. And, yes, there is a sweet, budding romance. And the twisted mind, character, and deeds of the main protagonist show the depth of a man's evil.
At the end of their journey across the pages of this book, we find that perils still persist and this makes us as readers anticipate the author's next tale in the Western Light Series.
A book I highly recommend.
DISCLOSURE: I was provided a complimentary copy the book to facilitate a review. Opinions are mine, alone and are freely given.
As the author weaves this story, her characters are fleshed out giving the reader insight into their character and behavior. We love some and truly hate others. They show strength to overcome and the ability to adjust. Their astounding compassion toward others. And, yes, there is a sweet, budding romance. And the twisted mind, character, and deeds of the main protagonist show the depth of a man's evil.
At the end of their journey across the pages of this book, we find that perils still persist and this makes us as readers anticipate the author's next tale in the Western Light Series.
A book I highly recommend.
DISCLOSURE: I was provided a complimentary copy the book to facilitate a review. Opinions are mine, alone and are freely given.
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