A Rugged Beauty

Wagon Train Matches #5

by Lacy Williams

Hollis Tremblay has no memory of why he’s out in the wilderness alone or whether the woman with him is his wife. She’s beautiful and her rosy outlook makes everything seem brighter, even the dangers they face...

When Hollis’s memory crashes back, he realizes that Abigail is the sister his childhood best friend charged him with looking after across the dangerous westward journey. Abigail might be a ray of sunshine, but she’s strictly forbidden. Especially to him.

But when the company realizes that Hollis and Abigail have grown close while marooned in the wild, he may find himself ensnared in a marriage of convenience…

Genres: Romance, Historical Romance, Westerns, Historical, Marriage Of Convenience, Christian Historical Fiction, Christian Fiction

290 pages, Kindle Edition

Published August 22, 2024

About the author

Lacy Williams wishes her writing career was more like what you see on Hallmark movies: dreamy brainstorming from a French chateau or a few minutes at the computer in a million-dollar New York City penthouse. In reality, she’s up before the sun, putting words on the page before her kids wake up for the day. Those early-morning and late-night writing sessions add up, and Lacy has published fifty books in almost a decade, first with a big five publisher and then as an indie author. When she needs to refill the well, you can find Lacy birdwatching, gardening, biking with the kiddos, or walking the dog. Find tons of bonus scenes and reader extras by becoming a VIP reader at www.lacywilliams.net/vip .

Reviews

[Brittany · Rating 4 out of 5]

A Rugged Beauty is book five in the Wagon Train Matches series. I am really enjoying all of the layers, relationships, and connections that have formed throughout the books of this series. The author has done a good job of setting this story up so that even if you haven’t read the earlier books, you could probably still jump in and enjoy this novel, too. But the experience is definitely richer if you read the books in order.

Hollis and Abigail are characters that have been solid members of the wagon train in the previous stories. I had no idea that these two actually knew each other from before the wagon trains set out. They both have painful events in their pasts and Hollis definitely does not think that love and happiness is something he will have in his life going forward.

I enjoyed this installment in the series and I loved the way Abigail set out to love Hollis even though she knew it was likely that she was going to get her heart broken. I’m looking forward to reading future books in this series.

I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.

You can read this review on my blog:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...

[Readingintheweehours · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was hoping Hollis would get his story!
I loved the unique beginning of this story (not wanting to spoil, so I won’t share what it is) and the moments of utter tenderness between Hollis and Abigail. The way they each care and protect one another without even realizing the way God is weaving their lives together is beautiful. God will restore the years that the worms have eaten. This story is sure to leave you feeling the warmth and comfort of being loved beyond fear.
I love this series!

[Rhiannon Hinton · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed this book

What you'll find inside:
- Christian romance
-The Oregon Trail
- Marriage of convenience
- Amnesia
- Brother's best friend

What I loved:
- "I've lived years of scrimping and saving—and no one to buy for. It'd bring me joy to provide for you."
- Revisiting the whole company.
- Character growth based in Christ.

[Vickie McDonough · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed reading A Rugged Beauty and finding out more about the characters I've read about in previous books in this series. The beginning of this story was very different with two characters in extreme peril. There was plenty of good conflict and a sweet romance. Readers who have followed this series will love this next book.

[Mary Ann Speel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another great book in the ongoing series by Lacy Williams. Really enjoyed reading this book. Loved the characters. You meet the h and H as they are regaining consciousness. They realize that they don’t know their own names, they don’t recognize each other, they don’t know how they got where they are. Both don’t feel good. The H looks at the vomit that is by each of them and determines that even though they are hungry they can’t eat the berries that are nearby. He decides that he will fish and while he is doing that the h starts a fire. The H is successful and they get to much needed sustenance. The next morning the H fish’s again with more success than the evening before. They cook the fish eating some and taking the rest with them as they start walking up river. The H is protective of the h. He believes she is his wife. In his limited memory that he has regained is one of his wedding. Although he does not see his bride’s face he believes the h is bride. On the third day they see an unknown man whom the H intends to surprise to see if he is friend or foe. Before he can confront the man a rain storm starts and a lightning strike starts a fire. In the rain and the smoke the stranger gets away. While all this is going on h realizes she has regained her memory. After the storm and before the h can speak to the H they see a man on horseback and they holler to get his attention, but unsuccessfully. Then the H takes out his gun and even with limited bullets shouts off several shots. The rider turns around and rides to them. They are rescued. The H still without his memory tells them that they are married so being out together and alone is no problem. The rescuers know differently. The H is the leader of the wagon train they are part of. When the H regains his memory he knows that he made a mistake in what he said and when the h is upset he tells her not to worry it will be fine. But the gossip is harming the h good name so they decide to get married with the plan of getting an annulment when they reach Oregon. The wagon train has been suffering from illness which progressively gets worse. When the H decides to push on to the fort which is ahead of them part the people disagree and they remain behind. When the H with those who choose to go with him reach the fort the commander refuses them entrance or help. Meanwhile the people back in that part of the wagon train that remained behind are having an even greater problems as more and more people are dying. The young lady who is caring for the sick decides she needs to help and with a companion who she detests rides to the fort on horseback. When she arrives the H tells her they refuse to help, but she refuses to take no for an answer and goes to the fort with the man who came with her. After a while they emerge from the fort with soldiers. Some soldiers remain with the wagon train near the fort and the rest go back to the wagon train that remained behind. With the help of the soldiers the people in both parts of the wagon train regain their health and join up. Story to be continued. Enjoy the story and join with all those who are waiting for the next book.

[Karen Baney · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lacy Williams yanks the reader into the story with double amnesia! Bold writing, Williams.

I loved the way the author instantly pulled me into the story. Having read the other books in the series, I knew who the main characters were and loved watching how amnesia dropped their walls, while creating a few new problems for them once they caught up to the wagon train.

The romance between Hollis and Abigail has been simmering since earlier in the series and comes to a delightful HEA in this story, though the path there is fraught with danger and heartache.

While the books in this series stand on their own, I think the reader will enjoy this one more if they’ve read at least the previous book in the series (though I highly recommend the entire series) to understand some of the implications that play out in the beginning of the book.

I enjoyed the way the author seamlessly weaves spiritual growth into her characters and the story.

Fans of Christian historical romance will enjoy this clean, page-turner.

Romance: Passing mention of attraction and kissing.
Faith: Both characters were challenged to a deepening understanding of God.

I received an advanced copy of this book courtesy of the author. All opinions are my own.

[Linda Marsh · Rating 5 out of 5]

Abigail and Hollis are lost in the woods except for each other. Neither has a memory of who they are, how they got where they are, and who else is supposed to be with them. They are both somewhat weak from being sick and have just figured out some wild berries they ate have caused their illness and memory loss.

The pair live on the land for a couple of days with no supplies before they are re-united with the wagon train they were traveling with. Hollis' memory is still somewhat hazy, and he has a faint memory of a woman in his past that leads him to think Abigail is his wife. He says this in front of several folks belonging to the wagon train, and of course, they are shocked.

Hardships and illness strike the wagon train, and through it all, Hollis as Trainmaster, is responsible for keeping the group safe. During this time he rejects Abigail's overtures to be friends. There is much more to the story, and it is well worth reading. I was engrossed from the first page, and had a hard time putting the story down. This will be a book I will re-read in the future.

I served as an ARC reader and was given a free copy of the story for my honest opinion.

[Carolyn Bryant · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Rugged Beauty is a compelling, touching addition to the exciting Wagon Train Matches series. It was great to reconnect with the wonderful wagon train “family” and finally discover Hollis and Abigail’s story. As in the previous books, Ms. Williams skillfully brings the wagon train world to life with vivid descriptions, action, and dialog portraying the difficulties and dangers from nature, illness, and unscrupulous men encountered on the journey. The courage and perseverance of the settlers are also richly depicted. I was totally immersed in the story from the unusual beginning to the hope-filled, “to be continued” ending. Hollis has been one of my favorite characters since the beginning of the journey. He is a strong character and quite an enigma. Consumed by past losses, he fears opening his heart to love again. This quote describes his outlook on life: “It’s easier to go through life without,” without happiness, without love, “than to lose it over and over again.” Sweet Abigail is just who he needs to help him heal and love again. I appreciate the inspiring faith thread woven throughout the story. I love this wonderful story of redemption, healing, and restoration and highly recommend it especially for fans of inspirational western romance. I can’t wait to find out what happens next with this marvelous cast!
I received a copy of this book from the author/publisher with no obligation to write a positive review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Norma · Rating 5 out of 5]

This story starts not long after the last book ended. The group is crossing a river and Abigail's wagon is the last one to cross. Hollis is on his horse not far from her. Abigail is doing good until she somehow disturbs a beehive and starts getting stung. She falls off her wagon into the river and is swept away. Hollis rides after her and grabs her but falls off his horse. What happens after that is in the wonderful story. They both wake up and have no memory of who they are and how they got to where they are. Abigail doesn't trust Hollis at first but he proves to her that she can trust him. Their trust of each other has them guessing that they were traveling together and they wonder if they are a married couple. They spend 2 or 3 days wondering and are found by Owen from their wagon train. We learn a lot about Hollis and why he's the way he is. There is a lot of action and frustration in this story but the reminder of the fact the Lord has a plan for them and to have faith helps them. Hollis comes to realize it's okay for him to love Abigail. I loved this story and look forward to reading Maddie's story next. I hope the author also plans to write Alice's story.

[Glenda Parker · Rating 5 out of 5]

My review today is on the Christian Historical Western Romance, A Rugged Beauty. This is book five in the series Wagon Train Matches. I have loved this series and was so excited to receive this one. Lacy does such a wonderful job with her westerns. This story is well-written, action-packed and full of wonderful characters. I know you are going to love it.

Abigail wakes up sick in the middle of the wilderness. She doesn't know who she is or where she is. She finds a man a few yards away. Who is he? Can she trust him? How did they get here? Where are they? Is he really her husband?

Hollis Tremblay wakes in the wilderness without any memories. He believes Abigail is his wife and he must protect her. When they are found and returned to the wagons he tells them she is his wife. He is later forced to marry her to save her reputation.

An incredible journey as they figure out how to deal with each other. God has a plan for these two, a plan for hope and a future. God has a plan for you too, a good plan for peace and not for harm. Give Him your heart and watch Him turn your life around even in these time of political unrest.

[Natasha · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh my, Raw emotions! Such an incredible addition to the series. Abigail and Hollis might fight in my heart for the best couple on this wagon trail now.
Here are a few things that I’ll be taking with me:
Memory loss with a new found wishes and dreams which dissipate as reality crashes together with regained memories.
Clear arc of redemption and forgiveness
Beautiful words of salvation in Jesus Christ.
Death at every corner but still zeal and joy for life, the life God has promised.
Burdens of past removed with the love of the present and hope of the future
Love that hopes, that forgives, that heals, that accepts, that gives selflessly.
So many second chances in love, in friendships, in life.
Future that is guided and given by loving God instead of plans thought by human minds.
Oh and so many wonderful threads of new couples whose HEAs are something to look forward to, Maddie and Doc, Alice and Robert, (and then can we hope for Coop?) Oh my, it was a joy to see them interact and unearth feelings.

[Leis Phinney · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the fifth book in the series and it's a really gripping story. Previous books have shown us a tenuous relationship between this couple, but now, lost and alone, they don't remember who they are, and they need to rely on each other for survival. So we see their relationship move past the feelings and ideas that were holding them back, and see what joy they could have together. Once rescued, to preserve their reputations, they are forced into a marriage of convenience and Hollis puts walls up between them.
But trouble is never far away for the wagon train, and when Abigail falls dangerously ill Hollis is forced to recognize that he loves her, needs her, and wants a real relationship. I recommend this book, and the whole series, for its character development, interesting and suspenseful storylines and the ideal of redemption that runs throughout the books.
This book can be read as a standalone, and might be very interesting as a place to start the series. I received an ARC of this book and this is my honest opinion.

[Valri Western · Rating 5 out of 5]

A lot of turmoil in this story as Hollis and Abigail are separated from the wagon train in the beginning of the book and have no memory of who they are. They begin to think they are most likely married because why would they be all alone together? They struggle to survive hoping someone will eventually discover them and save them but continue to grow closer. However, when they are saved and returned to the wagon train and eventual memories revived, people demand they marry, and a marriage of convenience is arranged. In this rugged land where survival is needed every day, can love eventually come? Hollis is the wagon train master, and his time is demanded every day. Abagail feels she will never have his heart. She just wants to make it to the end of the trail so they can go their separate ways before her heart breaks...unless she can make Hollis see that she is worth loving for a lifetime.

[Psusan · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a Story! What a stubborn man! What a woman of grace! A Rugged Beauty by Lacy Williams is a hard-ot-put-down marvelous story. The fifth in the Wagon Train Matches series it opens with a mystery, at least one for the two people who are involved. I began it in the afternoon and couldn’t stop reading it until the conclusion to find out what happens with the many travelers on the wagon train trail, especially Abigail and Hollis.

This is one heartfelt, emotional read with all the feels. I understood how one must feel the need to protect themselves from the hurts of life. I also agree that God does not hurt other people just to “get back” at us. A hard lesson for Hollis who had losses in his life. Still Abigail has some too but could still look to God. An inspiring Christian story without being preachy at all. Highly recommend A Rugged Beauty and the entire series. This story is Lacy Williams’ storytelling at its best.

[April Wilson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hollis is such a strong character in the previous novels, but to see how much is hidden under that exterior is heartbreaking. So much pain, grief, loneliness, and loss of faith in God’s love. But God never fails His children. Hollis finds a second chance at faith in God, and love in Abigail’s heart. She is a sweet character, always helping and happy. But she too carries fears of the unknown and must learn to trust God. They are made for each other as they complete the other in their times of weakness.

I enjoyed the story; the series is clean and wholesome, with Biblical themes throughout. Each story is unique but attached to the next and previous novel. They are well written and worth revisiting. I received a complimentary copy and these are my voluntary and honest opinions. I was not required to leave a positive review.

[Joyce Marion · Rating 5 out of 5]

Abigail and Hollis wake up beside a stream. They have lost their memories. They were part of a wagon train and Abigail's wagon got in trouble during a water crossing and they were swept downstream. Some berries they ate, gave them temporary amnesia. As they struggle to regain their memories and figure out where they are supposed to be, they grow closer and share hurts from their past. When they are finally rescued, Hollis still hasn't regained his memory. Since they were together for days alone, they agree to a marriage of convenience. Hollis is the wagon train leader. He is also friends with Abigail's brother. He is seeing her safely to OR to be with her brother. He has a lot of hurt in his past and doesn't let anyone close. Can Abigail help him find healing? Such a sweet book of courage and faith and healing.

[Elaine Kiefer · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a touching story of healing and restoration. Two hurting souls are thrust together and both wake in the middle of the prairie with no memory of who they are or how they got there. As they work together to survive, their feelings grow, but when they regain their memories and find their way back to the wagon train, things get complicated. Hurts and wounds from the past keep them bound and unable to find the love they both desire. As they battle sickness, fire, storms and the distrust of people on the wagon train, God is faithful and Hollis finally accepts that he is not cursed, but loved by God. This is a great series of life on the Oregon Trail and I look forward to the next book.


I received a copy of this book from the author but this is my honest review.

[Kimberly Keagan · Rating 5 out of 5]

The story of Hollis and Abigail—unique characters for a Christian Western romance—is a wonderful addition to the Wagon Train Matches series. I loved the clever way author Lacy Williams manages to throw these two together for a rocky trail to romance. Highly recommend this very enjoyable book!

Kimberly's Rating System:
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ = I really, really liked the book. Maybe even loved it. 😍
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ = I liked the book. Would recommend it to others who enjoy the same genre.
⭐️⭐️⭐️ = The book was just o.k. for me. I finished it.
I don't post a rating on a book that I can't at least give three stars (chances are I didn't even finish it and, therefore, cannot give a worthwhile opinion).

I received an ARC from the author, but the opinions are my own.

[Sara · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is book#5 in the Wagon Train Matches series but it can be read as a standalone book.

This tells Abigail and Hollis’ story.

They get separated from the others in the wagon train and each of them have no memory of who they are and why they are in the middle of nowhere at the beginning of the book. As they wait to hopefully be rescued by someone they assume they are married but once rescued and have their memories back they come to realize that they aren’t.

You will have to grab a copy and read for yourself what happens in the rest of the story.

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. The review expressed here is my honest opinion.

[MaryEllen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Abigail and Hollis have had an odd relationship since they were introduced in the series. They look out for each other, but don't spend any time together. At. All.
He makes sure she's OK and she makes sure he gets food.
Obviously, there's something going on here that we don't know about. This story fills us in and moves forward.

Like the others in the series it's short and sweet. We get a well told story about a central couple, plus a little bit about what's going on with the other travelers. It's mostly a romance with action/adventure, plus a dash of mystery.

I really enjoyed it.

This is my voluntary review of a copy I received from the author.

[Margaret Nelson · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the fifth book in Williams’ Wagon Train Matches series. I highly recommend you read the series in order so that you have the back stories on the various characters who show up in this book, as well as understand mentions of things that happened previously.

This book is quite unique in that it begins with the main male character and the main female character BOTH having amnesia! Williams does well with that trope, and of course, once their memories return, there are all sorts of plot twists to make the path to true love a difficult one. The realities of life on a wagon train in those days is also handled well.

I look forward to reading more in this series!

[Karen Brasher · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Rugged Beauty

I was so happy to finally get to read Hollis’ and Abigail’s story. Hollis is the wagon master for the wagon train while Abigail is the sister of a friend and he has promised to protect her while on the trip. They both awaken with amnesia after a river crossing gone bad. After they are found, the question of impropriety is brought up and they end up in a marriage of convenience. Be sure to read this book. You do not have to read previous books in the series to enjoy this one but all of the books are really well written with wonderful characters, exciting happenings and very interesting stories.

[Mandy · Rating 5 out of 5]

This series is nothing short of amazing! A Rugged Beauty fits that description perfectly. This book begins with a mystery and intrigue. This author hits the floor running. Hollis and Abigail’s story is one of my favorites in the series. It’s so hard to choose. This book could be read as a standalone but I wouldn’t recommend it. These stories are so much richer if read in order. You get to know the people on the wagon train. There’s a lot going on, but the author writes well, so nothing is hard to follow. There was some Faith content but I would have liked to have seen more. I’m really looking forward to the next book in this series.

[Judy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Challenges are tremendous when one takes the trip across the western prairies and mountains. Two such persons, Hollis and Abigail. They have a very tense relationship due to their former lifestyles. Time will find them faced with some hazardous and life-threatening challenges. Will they build them up or tear them further from one another? This tale is artfully written by Lacy and I fully enjoyed it. I was provided a copy of this book from the publisher. All views are only my honest opinion.

[Debra Rylander · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you've missed the previous books, I urge you to read them, but you could read this as a stand-alone. You'll find yourself wanting more!
I always knew how difficult the early settlers had it, but this opened my eyes to so much more. On a positive note, many found love, sometimes after great heartache. The settlers suffered many losses, but helped each other in profound ways.
Hollis and Abigail have so much hurt in their past. Can they get through the their current struggles and be friends, or more?

[Kristi W - Book Love By Kristi · Rating 4 out of 5]

Amnesia, forced proximity, and a past full of loss/pain make for an interesting story. A touching story of redemption, healing, love, forgiveness, and a little bit of suspense. The descriptions of the wagon train, the danger, and many trials was eye opening. Great story!

I haven’t read the other books in the series but only felt I missed out on a little bit. I definitely want to go back and read the others.

I was given a free copy of this book by the author in exchange for my honest review. I was not required to give a positive review, the rating and opinions are all my own.

[Michelle Rhoden · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another great book in this wagon train series by Lacy Williams. Both characters have amnesia and became separated from the wagon train. Questions between the two of them arise as to whether or not they are married and did they know each other prior to their amnesia. Will depending on each other for survival put a strain on their relationship? If you enjoy wagon train storylines, this book is for you. Get your copy today.

I was given a complimentary copy of this book from the author. All words are my own.

[Karen Jones · Rating 5 out of 5]

Good Story

This is a good story about people in a wagon train heading west. Two people get separated from the train in a river. When they come to they have lost their memories. Hollis is the wagon train master and he doesn’t know who Abigail is. Thinking that she is his wife they struggle to survive on their own. Eventually they are reunited with the train and discover they aren’t married after all. The rest of the story needs to be read to find out how this all turns out. Good story with good characters.

[Lucia Valenzuela · Rating 5 out of 5]

A great story that will keep you reading until the end. Hollis and Abigail grow very close as they have to rely on each other when they are stranded together. Without their memories, their emotions can grow stronger despite the danger they face. August finally finds traces of whoever is spying on their company. Wonderful characters that interact so well with each other. I really enjoyed reading this.
I received a complimentary copy of this book and this is my voluntary, honest review.

[Earlene Click · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hollis and Abigail

This is an exciting and adventurous tale of the wagon master with a past history of loss and sorrow. Afraid of loving one to loose again is keeping him from a loving future with Miss Abigail. She too has a past history of love and loss. You will enjoy discovering how they overcome several trials and death filled illness on their journey to a happily ever after.