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Katharine's Remarkable Road Trip
"Kate makes me want to take a road trip. She's lovable and charming, and her voice... SO GOOD." -Kerry Chaput, author of the Defying the Crown series
If you loved Landscape of a Marriage by Gail Ward Olmsted, you'll absolutely adore Katharine's Remarkable Road Trip.
In the fall of 1907, Katharine decides to drive from Newport, Rhode Island to her new home in Jackson, New Hampshire. Despite the concerns of her family and friends that at the age of 77 she lacks the stamina for the nearly 300-mile journey, Katharine sets out alone. Over the next six days, she receives a marriage proposal, pulls an all-nighter, saves a life or two, crashes a high-society event, meets a kindred spirit, faces a former rival, makes a new friend, takes a stroll with a future movie mogul, advises a troubled newlywed, and reflects upon a life well her own!
Join her as she embarks upon her remarkable road trip.
Katharine Prescott Wormeley (1830-1908) was born into affluence in England and emigrated to the U. S. at the age of eighteen. Fiercely independent and never married, Kate volunteered as a nurse on a medical ship during the Civil War, before founding a vocational school for underprivileged girls. She was a philanthropist, a hospital administrator, and the author of The Other Side of 1862, as well as the noted translator of dozens of novels written by French authors, including Moliere and Balzac. She is included in History's The Unsung Heroines; History of American Civil War Women; Who's Who in America 1908-09; Notable American 1607-1950; A Biographical Dictionary; and A Woman of the (19th) Leading American Women in All Walks of Life and figures prominently in With Courage and Civil War on the Peninsula by Nancy Scripture Garrison.
If you loved Landscape of a Marriage by Gail Ward Olmsted, you'll absolutely adore Katharine's Remarkable Road Trip.
In the fall of 1907, Katharine decides to drive from Newport, Rhode Island to her new home in Jackson, New Hampshire. Despite the concerns of her family and friends that at the age of 77 she lacks the stamina for the nearly 300-mile journey, Katharine sets out alone. Over the next six days, she receives a marriage proposal, pulls an all-nighter, saves a life or two, crashes a high-society event, meets a kindred spirit, faces a former rival, makes a new friend, takes a stroll with a future movie mogul, advises a troubled newlywed, and reflects upon a life well her own!
Join her as she embarks upon her remarkable road trip.
Katharine Prescott Wormeley (1830-1908) was born into affluence in England and emigrated to the U. S. at the age of eighteen. Fiercely independent and never married, Kate volunteered as a nurse on a medical ship during the Civil War, before founding a vocational school for underprivileged girls. She was a philanthropist, a hospital administrator, and the author of The Other Side of 1862, as well as the noted translator of dozens of novels written by French authors, including Moliere and Balzac. She is included in History's The Unsung Heroines; History of American Civil War Women; Who's Who in America 1908-09; Notable American 1607-1950; A Biographical Dictionary; and A Woman of the (19th) Leading American Women in All Walks of Life and figures prominently in With Courage and Civil War on the Peninsula by Nancy Scripture Garrison.
231 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 13, 2024
450 people are currently reading
541 people want to read
About the author
Gail Ward Olmsted
10 books266 followersGail Ward Olmsted was a marketing executive and a college professor before she began writing fiction on a fulltime basis. A trip to Sedona, AZ inspired her first novel Jeep Tour. Three more novels followed before she began Landscape of a Marriage, a biographical work of fiction featuring landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted, a distant cousin of her husband’s, and his wife Mary.
Her latest is a pair of contemporary novels featuring a disgraced attorney seeking a career comeback: Miranda Writes (9/8/22) and Miranda Nights (7/6/23)
For more information, please visit her on Facebook and at gailwardolmsted.com
Her latest is a pair of contemporary novels featuring a disgraced attorney seeking a career comeback: Miranda Writes (9/8/22) and Miranda Nights (7/6/23)
For more information, please visit her on Facebook and at gailwardolmsted.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 138 reviews
October 22, 2024
Katherine’s Remarkable Road Trip by Gail Ward Olmsted was a blend of truth and fiction. It explored the impressive life of Katherine Prescott Wormely and in particular a rather unconventional road trip she took when she was at the ripe old age of seventy-seven years old. Katherine Prescott Wormely was a woman who embraced life and did things women living in the early 1900’s wouldn’t have dared to do. She was determined to drive herself from her home in Newport, Rhode Island to her home and final destination in Jackson, New Hampshire. Not many women in 1907 owned nor drove cars but Katherine Prescott Wormely not only owned the car she was driving but insisted on driving herself to final destination. She had mapped out her route and had picked particular places to stop along the way. It was on this six day journey of approximately three hundred miles that Katherine encountered several people who impacted her life. It goes without saying that Katherine impacted the lives of the people she met along her journey in a very meaningful way. Over the course of her journey, it became evident that Katherine was a kind, insightful, caring, intelligent and generous woman that made lasting impressions on the lives of the people she met along her route. Her life accomplishments were recognized as she recalled them when she reached out to the strangers she met on her journey.
I knew nothing about Katherine Prescott Wormely before listening to the audiobook of Katherine’s Remarkable Road Trip by Gail Ward Olmsted. She was quite an accomplished woman especially for the time she lived in (1830-1908). Katherine grew up in a loving home with her parents and sister in England. Her family was affluent and that afforded Katherine many opportunities that she might not have had otherwise. She emigrated to the United States when she was eighteen years old. During the course of her rich life, Katherine served as a volunteer nurse on a ship during the Civil War, founded a school for less fortunate girls, was a hospital administrator, an author and a respected translator for several well known French authors. She remained unmarried throughout her life but she had meaningful connections and relationships with a few men. The trip from Newport, Rhode Island to Jackson, New Hampshire was the final thing Katherine wanted to do despite her sister’s concerns, mainly due to her advanced age. Katherine’s Remarkable Road Trip by Gail Ward Olmsted was uplifting and very inspiring. I really enjoyed reading about Katherine’s journey, her accomplishments and her generosity. I recommend this book to those who enjoy historical fiction books that introduce little known facts about women who were both strong and independent.
Thank you to the publisher for allowing me to read Katherine’s Remarkable Road Trip by Gail Ward Olmsted through Netgalley in exchange for a honest review.
I knew nothing about Katherine Prescott Wormely before listening to the audiobook of Katherine’s Remarkable Road Trip by Gail Ward Olmsted. She was quite an accomplished woman especially for the time she lived in (1830-1908). Katherine grew up in a loving home with her parents and sister in England. Her family was affluent and that afforded Katherine many opportunities that she might not have had otherwise. She emigrated to the United States when she was eighteen years old. During the course of her rich life, Katherine served as a volunteer nurse on a ship during the Civil War, founded a school for less fortunate girls, was a hospital administrator, an author and a respected translator for several well known French authors. She remained unmarried throughout her life but she had meaningful connections and relationships with a few men. The trip from Newport, Rhode Island to Jackson, New Hampshire was the final thing Katherine wanted to do despite her sister’s concerns, mainly due to her advanced age. Katherine’s Remarkable Road Trip by Gail Ward Olmsted was uplifting and very inspiring. I really enjoyed reading about Katherine’s journey, her accomplishments and her generosity. I recommend this book to those who enjoy historical fiction books that introduce little known facts about women who were both strong and independent.
Thank you to the publisher for allowing me to read Katherine’s Remarkable Road Trip by Gail Ward Olmsted through Netgalley in exchange for a honest review.
July 8, 2024
I always love a good road trip, and I enjoyed traveling along with Katharine Wormeley from Rhode Island to New Hampshire in 1907. The thing that struck me the most is that simple things, like stopping to get a flat fixed or sitting in a park, turned into meaningful connections. Katharine really got to know remarkable people from all stations of life just by engaging with them. It makes one think about missed opportunities to get to know others better.
Katharine, an author, translator, and nurse, uses all of her skills on this trip. During the trip, She reflects on working with Frederick Ward Olmsted, the designer of Central Park, and her mostly unspoken love for him. She is surprised to meet his wife on her journey. She also visits another love from the past. This is a journey of memories, paths not taken, and a lesson to reach out to others with all of your talents. I came away with a picture of a lovely woman who was also strong as steel. Gail Ward Olmsted has also reached out, to the past, and introduced us to an extraordinary woman. I’m glad I got to meet her.
I received a free copy of this book from the author and publisher via Netgalley. I also picked up the Audible version of this book, which I very much enjoyed. The narrator, Lisa Bozek, did a great job of capturing the spirit of Katharine Wormeley.
Katharine, an author, translator, and nurse, uses all of her skills on this trip. During the trip, She reflects on working with Frederick Ward Olmsted, the designer of Central Park, and her mostly unspoken love for him. She is surprised to meet his wife on her journey. She also visits another love from the past. This is a journey of memories, paths not taken, and a lesson to reach out to others with all of your talents. I came away with a picture of a lovely woman who was also strong as steel. Gail Ward Olmsted has also reached out, to the past, and introduced us to an extraordinary woman. I’m glad I got to meet her.
I received a free copy of this book from the author and publisher via Netgalley. I also picked up the Audible version of this book, which I very much enjoyed. The narrator, Lisa Bozek, did a great job of capturing the spirit of Katharine Wormeley.
March 30, 2024
Katharine’s Remarkable Road Trip is the gentle fictional story about a journey taken by real-life American philanthropist Katharine Prescott Wormeley towards the end of her life. The author had contacted our blog looking for reviewers and I fancied the idea of an elderly heroine hitting the road - I had not heard of her previously, but liked the mix of fact and fiction. As a bonus, it fits our March theme of Women’s History Month!
In 1907, 77 year old Katharine decides to drive her brand new car the 300 miles between her existing home, and the comfortable new house she had built in which to see out her days, dropping in on various friends along the way. Spirited and fiercely independent, she brushes off the concerns of her younger sister Ariana and sets off, travelling at the grand old pace of ten miles an hour. The foreword introduces the real Katharine’s biography and the afterword clarifies which events and people mentioned are real.
“Think about it. You prevented a little girl from losing her father and rescued a man from choking. You provided companionship to a veteran who needed someone to share a meal with. You gave sound advice to a young woman in crisis and offered encouragement to others. Your whole life has been leading up to this. Your time serving on the ship, running the hospital, opening a school, writing, and making stories available to others. Treasuring your family and friends. Don’t you see, Katie? Your life has been . . . remarkable.”
This was a delightful first person account of a six day adventure as Katharine travels alone from Newport, Rhode Island to her planned Forever Home in Jackson, New Hampshire - much to the alarm of her staff, family and friends. En route, she meets a variety of interesting people, intervenes in various emergencies - both medical and spiritual, and reminisces about her life as an unrepentant singleton.
I loved this nicely written short novel about an adventurous woman defying both her failing health and the conventions of the day to get out there and do as she pleases. The author describes her as “a complicated woman, a free-thinking pioneer, a devoted daughter, and a generous friend” and all of these traits come across beautifully. She’s kind to strangers, cheeky to her friends, and mischievous with her anxious sister. We gradually learn about the loves of her life - unavailable men she adored but learned to move on from, and the intelligence and passion that made her reject a conventional life.
Thanks to Gail Olmsted for the ARC. I am posting this honest review voluntarily. Katharine’s Remarkable Road Trip is published on June 13th.
In 1907, 77 year old Katharine decides to drive her brand new car the 300 miles between her existing home, and the comfortable new house she had built in which to see out her days, dropping in on various friends along the way. Spirited and fiercely independent, she brushes off the concerns of her younger sister Ariana and sets off, travelling at the grand old pace of ten miles an hour. The foreword introduces the real Katharine’s biography and the afterword clarifies which events and people mentioned are real.
“Think about it. You prevented a little girl from losing her father and rescued a man from choking. You provided companionship to a veteran who needed someone to share a meal with. You gave sound advice to a young woman in crisis and offered encouragement to others. Your whole life has been leading up to this. Your time serving on the ship, running the hospital, opening a school, writing, and making stories available to others. Treasuring your family and friends. Don’t you see, Katie? Your life has been . . . remarkable.”
This was a delightful first person account of a six day adventure as Katharine travels alone from Newport, Rhode Island to her planned Forever Home in Jackson, New Hampshire - much to the alarm of her staff, family and friends. En route, she meets a variety of interesting people, intervenes in various emergencies - both medical and spiritual, and reminisces about her life as an unrepentant singleton.
I loved this nicely written short novel about an adventurous woman defying both her failing health and the conventions of the day to get out there and do as she pleases. The author describes her as “a complicated woman, a free-thinking pioneer, a devoted daughter, and a generous friend” and all of these traits come across beautifully. She’s kind to strangers, cheeky to her friends, and mischievous with her anxious sister. We gradually learn about the loves of her life - unavailable men she adored but learned to move on from, and the intelligence and passion that made her reject a conventional life.
Thanks to Gail Olmsted for the ARC. I am posting this honest review voluntarily. Katharine’s Remarkable Road Trip is published on June 13th.
August 3, 2025
A quick paced historical fiction which was a delight that it didn't mention any war. A lady journey that involves meeting new friends and helping those in need.
September 21, 2024
Katharine’s Remarkable Road Trip by Gail Ward Olmsted
Katharine’s Remarkable Road Trip is a historical fiction story about Katharine Prescott Wormeley and her road trip from her family home in Newport, Rhode Island to her second home in Jackson, New Hampshire. The book explores different aspects of her journey, the difficulties of traveling alone in 1907, with a vehicle that’s too speed was 10 miles per hour, as well as her experiences and people she met on the way.
The story was a clean enjoyable story, showing interesting interactions and difficulties of that time period. The book moved fast and kept you engaged. I enjoyed the fact that Katharine did things her way, even if it was against the normal standards of that time period. This had many interesting characters, and I enjoyed her experiences, especially as she was a seventy seven year old woman that decided what she wanted and accomplished it, in an era where women still had few rights. The way that she inspired the people she met was entertaining. Her past was told through reflection and conversations during her trip, giving her character a deeper sense. The book was a quick read.
Katharine’s Remarkable Road Trip is a historical fiction story about Katharine Prescott Wormeley and her road trip from her family home in Newport, Rhode Island to her second home in Jackson, New Hampshire. The book explores different aspects of her journey, the difficulties of traveling alone in 1907, with a vehicle that’s too speed was 10 miles per hour, as well as her experiences and people she met on the way.
The story was a clean enjoyable story, showing interesting interactions and difficulties of that time period. The book moved fast and kept you engaged. I enjoyed the fact that Katharine did things her way, even if it was against the normal standards of that time period. This had many interesting characters, and I enjoyed her experiences, especially as she was a seventy seven year old woman that decided what she wanted and accomplished it, in an era where women still had few rights. The way that she inspired the people she met was entertaining. Her past was told through reflection and conversations during her trip, giving her character a deeper sense. The book was a quick read.
August 3, 2024
Gail Ward Olmsted enchants readers once again with Katharine's Remarkable Road Trip, a delightful contemporary tale set in 1907. At 77, Katharine embarks on a daring solo journey between her two homes, filled with unexpected surprises. Her trip becomes a canvas for reconnecting with friends, uncovering personal history, and stumbling into a marriage proposal, life-saving moments, and new friendships.
Inspired by the real Katharine Prescott Wormeley, this novel blends historical fact with imaginative storytelling. Olmsted’s engaging narrative brings Katharine’s adventures to life, offering a charming escape while subtly weaving in historical insights.
As always, Olmsted delivers a comforting and enjoyable read. Her storytelling captures the essence of Katharine’s bold spirit, making this a heartwarming celebration of adventure and resilience.
Five out of five stars.
Check out my full review on my blog!
I received this book for free from the author, Gail Ward Olmsted, in exchange for an honest review.
Inspired by the real Katharine Prescott Wormeley, this novel blends historical fact with imaginative storytelling. Olmsted’s engaging narrative brings Katharine’s adventures to life, offering a charming escape while subtly weaving in historical insights.
As always, Olmsted delivers a comforting and enjoyable read. Her storytelling captures the essence of Katharine’s bold spirit, making this a heartwarming celebration of adventure and resilience.
Five out of five stars.
Check out my full review on my blog!
I received this book for free from the author, Gail Ward Olmsted, in exchange for an honest review.
May 8, 2024
What a fun and easy read. Katharine Wormeley is a delightful, witty, sharp, and incredibly likable heroine, and Olmsted expertly weaves her story full of history and charm. My first experience with this author, but I will definitely be checking out some of her other titles.
March 31, 2024
I have a new fictional mentor to aspire to be: Katharine Prescott Wormeley. Katharine is a no-nonsense, seventy-seven year old woman reflecting on a life well-lived as she takes a road trip alone in the early 1900’s from her home in Rhode Island to where she plans to live out the rest of her days in New Hampshire. But what should have been an uneventful trip was far from it. On her way, she met new friends, gave advice, supported dreams and even saved lives, among other things. Katharine forged her own path and made her own way, even during a time where that was not the norm. She lived well, she worked hard, she enjoyed her days, she shared with others and she’s committed to discovering as much joy as possible with the time she has left. Like I said, she’s my new fictional mentor. I bet she could be yours, too.
May 11, 2024
A Very Special Journey
Katharine’s Remarkable Road Trip by Gail Ward Olmsted is one of the most charming books I have read in a long time. To start with, it is refreshing to find a novel in which the primary female character is 77 years old. A bit of biographical background on the real Katharine Prescott Wormeley, a highly accomplished woman of the Victorian era, is provided in an author's foreword, after which Olmsted beautifully captures her lead character's unique personality with a lively and period-perfect first-person narrative.
The story is set in the fall of 1907, when Katharine embarks upon what she anticipates will be her first and last solo road trip behind the wheel of her brand new, open-top car. The solitary journey from Newport, Rhode Island to Jackson, New Hampshire provides Katharine with plenty of time for reflection on her life, especially reminiscences of serving as a Civil War nurse and the significant romances that occurred as a result. But just as important to the novel are the events of the road trip itself, during which, on several occasions, Katharine finds herself in a position to make a significant impact on the lives of strangers.
Katharine is a strong, independent woman, never married, and someone of notable compassion and humor. Olmsted is a master at using ordinary life to illuminate the extraordinary qualities of her characters. This was true as well in her earlier novel Landscape of a Marriage, which shares a few of the same characters as Katharine's Remarkable Road Trip. I highly recommend this often whimsical, often philosophical story about a real-life woman of the Victorian era who, late in life, continues to search for adventure and love, and finds both in her own very special way.
Katharine’s Remarkable Road Trip by Gail Ward Olmsted is one of the most charming books I have read in a long time. To start with, it is refreshing to find a novel in which the primary female character is 77 years old. A bit of biographical background on the real Katharine Prescott Wormeley, a highly accomplished woman of the Victorian era, is provided in an author's foreword, after which Olmsted beautifully captures her lead character's unique personality with a lively and period-perfect first-person narrative.
The story is set in the fall of 1907, when Katharine embarks upon what she anticipates will be her first and last solo road trip behind the wheel of her brand new, open-top car. The solitary journey from Newport, Rhode Island to Jackson, New Hampshire provides Katharine with plenty of time for reflection on her life, especially reminiscences of serving as a Civil War nurse and the significant romances that occurred as a result. But just as important to the novel are the events of the road trip itself, during which, on several occasions, Katharine finds herself in a position to make a significant impact on the lives of strangers.
Katharine is a strong, independent woman, never married, and someone of notable compassion and humor. Olmsted is a master at using ordinary life to illuminate the extraordinary qualities of her characters. This was true as well in her earlier novel Landscape of a Marriage, which shares a few of the same characters as Katharine's Remarkable Road Trip. I highly recommend this often whimsical, often philosophical story about a real-life woman of the Victorian era who, late in life, continues to search for adventure and love, and finds both in her own very special way.
June 12, 2024
Katherine Prescott Wormeley is a force to be reckoned with. This is a fictionalized account of Miss Wormeley's amazing life retold while she makes a 300-mile drive from New York to New Hampshire in 1907. She is in the sunset of her life when she decides to make this trip.
I was not familiar with this lady until I heard about this book.
She was a nurse, hospital administrator, translator, philanthropist among a few other pretty noteworthy achievements. She earned her place his history.
The road trip is made over 6 days. Many interesting encounters happened during this journey. A minor detail, but I found it fascinating at how dusty and gritty she felt at the end of each day from the road dust. But, the reader also learns her backstory as she reminisces during the drive. The author combines real characters and adds fictional characters for the flow of the story. Such a fulfilling and interesting life.
Miss Wormeley accomplished more in her life at a time when a woman's place was considered to be a homemaker, wife and mother than many of us do now.
The author's notes at the end are great. She explains her research and how she created the story. It is a quick and interesting read.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the Advance Readers Copy.
I was not familiar with this lady until I heard about this book.
She was a nurse, hospital administrator, translator, philanthropist among a few other pretty noteworthy achievements. She earned her place his history.
The road trip is made over 6 days. Many interesting encounters happened during this journey. A minor detail, but I found it fascinating at how dusty and gritty she felt at the end of each day from the road dust. But, the reader also learns her backstory as she reminisces during the drive. The author combines real characters and adds fictional characters for the flow of the story. Such a fulfilling and interesting life.
Miss Wormeley accomplished more in her life at a time when a woman's place was considered to be a homemaker, wife and mother than many of us do now.
The author's notes at the end are great. She explains her research and how she created the story. It is a quick and interesting read.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the Advance Readers Copy.
June 8, 2024
I really enjoyed Katharine's Remarkable Road trip and often felt I was riding passenger with her on her journey both to her new home and down memory lane. Katharine is getting up there is age, and as she starts to put things in order, she decides where she wants to live out her days, so against her sisters liking, she hits the road on her own to New Hampshire. To break up the 300 mile journey, she plans visits to friends along the way and with each mile and visit we find out more of Katharine's past as well as how she got to be where she is. Katharine led an interesting life as a nurse, and met a lot of historical people. It is fascinating how she used her nursing skills through out her entire life and often helped others get through things with her own stories from her younger years. I thought Katharine was quite the fascinating woman, especially during the time of the Civil War. Having always been an independent woman, Katharine proved to her friends and family that she still is that woman, no matter her age and that some things in us never change. I would love to read more about Katharine's life as a nurse and her younger years, I feel she had a lot of stories to tell! Thank you to the author for the complementary novel. This review is of my own opinion and accord.
June 17, 2024
Katharine's Remarkable Road Trip
by Gail Ward Olmsted
4 stars
Katharine's Remarkable Road Trip is delightful and absolutely charming. I loved everything about this book. As a woman, I sometimes forget that older generations paved the way for the overwhelming choices I am afforded in my life. What a life this woman lived. Katharine was a real woman who broke through many barriers for a woman living in the late 1800s – early 1900s.
This is a fictionalized story about her life. The author has done a vast amount of research on Katharine Wormeley's life and has written an utterly fascinating book on it. A must-read.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher and Netgalley.
by Gail Ward Olmsted
4 stars
Katharine's Remarkable Road Trip is delightful and absolutely charming. I loved everything about this book. As a woman, I sometimes forget that older generations paved the way for the overwhelming choices I am afforded in my life. What a life this woman lived. Katharine was a real woman who broke through many barriers for a woman living in the late 1800s – early 1900s.
This is a fictionalized story about her life. The author has done a vast amount of research on Katharine Wormeley's life and has written an utterly fascinating book on it. A must-read.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher and Netgalley.
June 13, 2024
What an admirable woman Katharine was!!
Katharine Wormsley decides to return to her home in New Hampshire from her home in Rhode Island and, despite opposition from friends and family, she is going to drive herself there. It's a 300-mile trip, and this is 1907 - but Katharine is made of stern stuff and this turns out to be not only a trip, but an adventure!
I've read a few books by Gail Ward Olmsted now and really must get round to reading her earlier novels as she really knows how to tell a story. Katharine is no shy, retiring, elderly lady - that's for sure - and she embarks on her trip with confidence, staying with friends along the way and making friends out of any new people she meets. She is such a great character and this was a very easy read and, I have to say, finished off perfectly. Highly recommended and easily meriting all five sparkling stars!
Katharine Wormsley decides to return to her home in New Hampshire from her home in Rhode Island and, despite opposition from friends and family, she is going to drive herself there. It's a 300-mile trip, and this is 1907 - but Katharine is made of stern stuff and this turns out to be not only a trip, but an adventure!
I've read a few books by Gail Ward Olmsted now and really must get round to reading her earlier novels as she really knows how to tell a story. Katharine is no shy, retiring, elderly lady - that's for sure - and she embarks on her trip with confidence, staying with friends along the way and making friends out of any new people she meets. She is such a great character and this was a very easy read and, I have to say, finished off perfectly. Highly recommended and easily meriting all five sparkling stars!
August 29, 2024
This is an account of the 200+ mile road trip from Rhode Island to New Hampshire taken by 77-year-old Katharine Wormeley in 1907.....by herself! Having been given a short time yet to live, she decided to sell her beautiful home in Newport, RI, and move permanently to her new home in Jackson, NH. The road trip itself is fictional, stated by the author, although most of the information in the story is fact. She was a remarkable woman, and the story of her life is fascinating. I also personally loved the setting, since her road trip took her through my family's "home base" in Massachusetts, particularly with her stop in Brockton. I can't imagine what a huge undertaking this drive would have been at that time given the condition of the roads.....they were bad enough in the 1950s! The book is a delight!
June 18, 2024
Katharine's Remarkable Road Trip reveals a generous, independent, and skilled protagonist from a time when many women were mainly wives and mothers. "Spinster" Kate lived a full life with few regrets, many accomplishments, and dear friends. If only we were all so lucky as to appreciate what we have, the experiences we've gained, and the friends met along the way-one of Olmsted's finest.
August 30, 2024
This is a lovely almost gentle book, like a wandering road trip with plenty of time to take in the sites and chat with the locals. It reminded me of Travels With Charley and Blue Highways, only with an independent gray-haired woman at the wheel of the latest in Ford models. Through chance encounters, she fends off trouble, saves lives, and transcends the generation gap. Positively a delight!
July 28, 2024
Note: Thank you to NetGalley, Black Rose Writing, and Gail Ward Olmstead for the advanced reader copy of the book. This review will also be posted on NetGalley. What follows is my unbiased review of the book.
When I saw Katharine’s Remarkable Road Trip available to read, I was immediately enchanted. This is the fictionalized account of Katharine Prescott Wormeley making a road trip from her family home in Newport, Rhode Island to her second home in Jackson, New Hampshire. She is 77 years old at the time of this undertaking in 1907, driving an automobile that is not yet all that common. Everyone seems worried about her making the journey alone, but the trip ends up being quite fun for the spunky lady.
The book takes us through her adventure at a time when automobiles only went about 10 miles per hour. This meant multiple stops for Katharine (or Kate) along the way. Nowadays, I can make the trip in about 4 hours, tops, and I have.
The book was a delight all the way through. Katharine ruminates on her life. As a society “old maid” she lived a rather progressive life for her times. She served as a volunteer nurse for the United States Sanitary Commission (which became the Red Cross) on a hospital ship during the Civil War, then as Superintendent of a hospital near her home in Rhode Island. She is also noted for her many translations of French works into English, including the writings of Moliere, Balzac, and others.
Along the way, Katharine meets people who are very interesting and saves a life, twice. She crashes a Vanderbilt Society event (not those Vanderbilts), meets a future movie mogul, and confronts a rival she had for a man’s affection.
To read my full review please go to Katharine’s Remarkable Road Trip by Gail Ward Olmstead
When I saw Katharine’s Remarkable Road Trip available to read, I was immediately enchanted. This is the fictionalized account of Katharine Prescott Wormeley making a road trip from her family home in Newport, Rhode Island to her second home in Jackson, New Hampshire. She is 77 years old at the time of this undertaking in 1907, driving an automobile that is not yet all that common. Everyone seems worried about her making the journey alone, but the trip ends up being quite fun for the spunky lady.
The book takes us through her adventure at a time when automobiles only went about 10 miles per hour. This meant multiple stops for Katharine (or Kate) along the way. Nowadays, I can make the trip in about 4 hours, tops, and I have.
The book was a delight all the way through. Katharine ruminates on her life. As a society “old maid” she lived a rather progressive life for her times. She served as a volunteer nurse for the United States Sanitary Commission (which became the Red Cross) on a hospital ship during the Civil War, then as Superintendent of a hospital near her home in Rhode Island. She is also noted for her many translations of French works into English, including the writings of Moliere, Balzac, and others.
Along the way, Katharine meets people who are very interesting and saves a life, twice. She crashes a Vanderbilt Society event (not those Vanderbilts), meets a future movie mogul, and confronts a rival she had for a man’s affection.
To read my full review please go to Katharine’s Remarkable Road Trip by Gail Ward Olmstead
May 24, 2024
Olmsted’s delightful novel is inspired by Katharine Prescott Wormeley, an independent trailblazer of a woman born in 1830 who became a Civil War nurse and a highly sought-after translator of French literature among many other pursuits, the majority of which were pragmatic and philanthropic.
She never married although she had meaningful relationships, one being with a distant relation of the author’s husband. Raised in England, her family emigrated to the US when she was 18. Later in life, she portioned her time between houses in Newport, Rhode Island, and Jackson, New Hampshire. Katharine’s Remarkable Road Trip is an imagined account of her journeying the nearly three hundred miles between these East Coast properties.
Olmsted’s affection for her subject shines through from the opening chapter of this singular novel. It’s difficult to believe that the entire road trip is a fictional imagining albeit influenced by Olmsted’s thorough research into this remarkable woman.
Olmsted places Katharine toward the end of her life, she is 77 and, has barely a year left before her death. The story is written from Katharine’s first-person perspective and although she is vocal concerning her age and associated aches and pains, she does occasionally present physically as a little younger.
The novel takes a couple of chapters to settle but once it reaches cruising speed, it’s an absorbing and rewarding read. Olmsted skillfully uses the framework of Katharine’s journey to sprinkle the narrative with intriguing chance meetings with a host of well-drawn characters. This lends opportunities for Katharine to bring her past into focus as she reflects and reminisces while imparting gentle wisdom and, in most cases, a hefty pinch of benevolence.
The reader begins to build up not only a captivating biographical picture of Katharine but also the measure of the woman as Olmsted ensures the reader is privy to her internal thought processes, musings, and doubts. She’s incredibly likable. Warm, quietly tenacious, and self-aware yet still possessing moments of emotional vulnerability.
Among the random encounters, she has planned stopovers with friends along the way. These overnight stays give further circumstances for Olmsted to unfold retrospective fragments and also keep the momentum driving, (no pun intended). The chapters involving her slightly fragile friend, Priscilla, were poignantly layered with the weight of things unspoken.
Olmsted also places Katharine in interesting situations, allowing additional glimpses of her motivations and personality. By the time Katharine is partway to New Hampshire, the reader is completely enamored of this extraordinary woman, her fearless attitude, and her accomplishments.
Olmsted sets Katharine’s road trip in early October and nicely utilizes the fall scenery and its rich, Autumnal tones as a backdrop. It also serves, possibly, as a touching metaphor for Katharine; the reader is aware through strong hints that she will soon face her own Winter.
Nonetheless, she is refreshingly candid as she regales her romantic and flirtatious entanglements. Her connection with Frederick Law Olmsted is intriguing and the warmth of the bond between her and the wonderfully depicted Stephen is palpable.
Katharine’s Remarkable Road Trip is a thoroughly enjoyable novel that manages to be both moving and enthralling. Highly recommended.
She never married although she had meaningful relationships, one being with a distant relation of the author’s husband. Raised in England, her family emigrated to the US when she was 18. Later in life, she portioned her time between houses in Newport, Rhode Island, and Jackson, New Hampshire. Katharine’s Remarkable Road Trip is an imagined account of her journeying the nearly three hundred miles between these East Coast properties.
Olmsted’s affection for her subject shines through from the opening chapter of this singular novel. It’s difficult to believe that the entire road trip is a fictional imagining albeit influenced by Olmsted’s thorough research into this remarkable woman.
Olmsted places Katharine toward the end of her life, she is 77 and, has barely a year left before her death. The story is written from Katharine’s first-person perspective and although she is vocal concerning her age and associated aches and pains, she does occasionally present physically as a little younger.
The novel takes a couple of chapters to settle but once it reaches cruising speed, it’s an absorbing and rewarding read. Olmsted skillfully uses the framework of Katharine’s journey to sprinkle the narrative with intriguing chance meetings with a host of well-drawn characters. This lends opportunities for Katharine to bring her past into focus as she reflects and reminisces while imparting gentle wisdom and, in most cases, a hefty pinch of benevolence.
The reader begins to build up not only a captivating biographical picture of Katharine but also the measure of the woman as Olmsted ensures the reader is privy to her internal thought processes, musings, and doubts. She’s incredibly likable. Warm, quietly tenacious, and self-aware yet still possessing moments of emotional vulnerability.
Among the random encounters, she has planned stopovers with friends along the way. These overnight stays give further circumstances for Olmsted to unfold retrospective fragments and also keep the momentum driving, (no pun intended). The chapters involving her slightly fragile friend, Priscilla, were poignantly layered with the weight of things unspoken.
Olmsted also places Katharine in interesting situations, allowing additional glimpses of her motivations and personality. By the time Katharine is partway to New Hampshire, the reader is completely enamored of this extraordinary woman, her fearless attitude, and her accomplishments.
Olmsted sets Katharine’s road trip in early October and nicely utilizes the fall scenery and its rich, Autumnal tones as a backdrop. It also serves, possibly, as a touching metaphor for Katharine; the reader is aware through strong hints that she will soon face her own Winter.
Nonetheless, she is refreshingly candid as she regales her romantic and flirtatious entanglements. Her connection with Frederick Law Olmsted is intriguing and the warmth of the bond between her and the wonderfully depicted Stephen is palpable.
Katharine’s Remarkable Road Trip is a thoroughly enjoyable novel that manages to be both moving and enthralling. Highly recommended.
July 31, 2024
One of my reading highlights this year for sure! Gail has written such a delightful dive into an historical figure, Katharine Prescott Wormeley, who deserves more historical attention. She uses the structure of a roadtrip, in the year 1907 to highlight and explore the personality, of this fascinating person. Along the way you will find surprises and very tender moments. I felt like I was right there next to Katharine, having an adventure with her, as she made her way north. I also love Gail’s balance of narrative and dialogue. Something I can be fussy on, but it was just perfect for me. Highly!! Recommended.
September 3, 2024
Absolutely Refreshing Read
When I first saw this book I thought what the heck and gave it a try. I am so glad I did as I loved it. Katharine truly had a remarkable road trip. Being over 70 I admit I do not have her courage and it made me envious.
When I first saw this book I thought what the heck and gave it a try. I am so glad I did as I loved it. Katharine truly had a remarkable road trip. Being over 70 I admit I do not have her courage and it made me envious.
September 3, 2024
Well written
My first read of this author's works, very enjoyable. Moves along without repetitions of stories. The ending requires a sequel.
My first read of this author's works, very enjoyable. Moves along without repetitions of stories. The ending requires a sequel.
April 7, 2025
Loved this book it would make a great movie
August 25, 2025
This book was a fun read. Based on the real-life character of Katherine Prescott Wormley, you will be treated to a journey with her as she travels by herself on a road trip from Rhode Island to New Hampshire. The fact that she is 77 years old and the book takes place in the early 1900s is astounding. She lived a remarkable life and I thoroughly enjoyed spending time with her on her travels (both physically and through memories). This is a great opportunity to get lost in the pages of a delightful story about an amazing woman.
Thank you to NetGalley and Black Rose Writing for my advanced review copy. All opinions and thoughts are my own.
For more reviews, please visit my blog at: https://www.msladybugsbookreviews.com/. Over 1000 reviews posted!
Thank you to NetGalley and Black Rose Writing for my advanced review copy. All opinions and thoughts are my own.
For more reviews, please visit my blog at: https://www.msladybugsbookreviews.com/. Over 1000 reviews posted!
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August 21, 2024What in interesting life she led!
February 27, 2024
Katharine Prescott Wormeley, a historical nurse, philanthropist, administrator, and lady of letters, takes an imaginary journey at the end of her life (1907). Driving alone from her house in Rhode Island to the home where she will live out her final days in New Hampshire, Katharine meets strangers who help her tell her life’s story, as she also inspires them to live out the dreams they share with her. She visits old friends, most importantly a first true love, with whom she shares her secrets.
Like her driving style - cautious and slow - the book’s writing meanders, in keeping with the trip’s purpose - more than to get from point A to B. It luxuriates New England’s characteristic small towns, foliage, and industriousness and takes time for happenstance. Descriptions of workers, cafes, and wayside rest stops create apt settings for Katharine’s recollections of the hodgepodge of Katharine’s career working on hospital ships during the Civil War, running a school, and translating books from French. The people she encounters reflect her enterprising young self. As she sees herself in them, her character is self-aware. Narrating her inner thoughts, particularly about worried family and friends skeptical of her solitary trip (and life), the book gives voice to a vibrant spirit inspiring in any age. She is what is remarkable about her road trip. Her epiphanies and confessions to her dearest friend portray an abiding and admirable trust. A biographical sketch embedded in a delightful adventure is a perfect pairing.
Like her driving style - cautious and slow - the book’s writing meanders, in keeping with the trip’s purpose - more than to get from point A to B. It luxuriates New England’s characteristic small towns, foliage, and industriousness and takes time for happenstance. Descriptions of workers, cafes, and wayside rest stops create apt settings for Katharine’s recollections of the hodgepodge of Katharine’s career working on hospital ships during the Civil War, running a school, and translating books from French. The people she encounters reflect her enterprising young self. As she sees herself in them, her character is self-aware. Narrating her inner thoughts, particularly about worried family and friends skeptical of her solitary trip (and life), the book gives voice to a vibrant spirit inspiring in any age. She is what is remarkable about her road trip. Her epiphanies and confessions to her dearest friend portray an abiding and admirable trust. A biographical sketch embedded in a delightful adventure is a perfect pairing.
March 1, 2024
Secure in the knowledge of the accomplishments of Katharine Wormeley, the reader is free to be swept up in the excitement and mystery of her 1907 road trip. The excitement is clear from the time frame, when automobiles were capricious machines and folks were fascinated by them. The mystery of 77-year old Katharine’s solo journey? Well, that’s another story entirely. Her ramblings, both the literal ones on the road, as well as the ones revealed through her memories, pulled me into the front seat of her new car, turning me into a willing traveling companion. I met any number of fascinating figures as she drove. If you love genuine characters and the commentary that’s shared, as well as more than a few surprises, be sure to pick up Katherine’s Remarkable Road Trip, and join her on the ride of a lifetime.
~ Mary Ann Noe, Author of Water the Color of Slate
~ Mary Ann Noe, Author of Water the Color of Slate
August 11, 2024
Story of giving
Fictional story of a real life woman. A remarkable woman. In our "me" world, it was delightful to read about someone who only wanted to help others.
Highly recommend it.
Fictional story of a real life woman. A remarkable woman. In our "me" world, it was delightful to read about someone who only wanted to help others.
Highly recommend it.
August 10, 2024
A remarkable road trip
What a fun story about an old lady and a road trip with adventure. Love it. Light and funny and a good read for an older lady thinking about her life.
What a fun story about an old lady and a road trip with adventure. Love it. Light and funny and a good read for an older lady thinking about her life.
June 11, 2024
Katherine's Remarkable Road Trip by Gail Ward Olmsted is a combination 'bucket list' and 'what other surprises along the way' type novel. Based upon a real person and some real events in her life, yet fictitious, Katherine Prescott Wormeley sets out on her bucket list of driving solo from her home in Rhode Island to her new home in New Hampshire, nearly 300 miles. Not a great feat in our minds, but in 1907 and at the age of 77 it truly was. Fateful encounters along the trip change the lives of those Katherine meets.
I enjoyed the character of Katherine and her reminisces along the trip but felt the story line was a little slow at times.
Releases June 13th. I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
I enjoyed the character of Katherine and her reminisces along the trip but felt the story line was a little slow at times.
Releases June 13th. I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
April 22, 2024
Katharines’s Remarkable Road Trip is a fictional account of a very real woman who lived long ago. Set in October 1907, 77-year-old Katharine Prescott Wormeley decides to drive herself from her home in Rhode Island to her second home in New Hampshire where she plans to retire. Despite protests from friends and family, Katharine, who has always been independent and defied societal expectations, sets out on her week-long journey.
Along the way, Katharine meets a collection of characters. More often than not, she ends up helping them, both physically and emotionally, and in return, she’s left with the satisfaction that she is still useful and valued in this world, despite her age and unwed status.
Katharine’s Remarkable Road Trip is a short, fun, and pleasant story that mixes history, a gentle adventure, and a poignant message about our life’s choices and how we choose to view our accomplishments as we get older. Its author, Gail Ward Olmsted, has brought Katharine back to life and crafted a series of experiences for we the readers to experience alongside this long gone historical figure.
You can read my full review here: https://laurasbooksandblogs.com/katha...
Along the way, Katharine meets a collection of characters. More often than not, she ends up helping them, both physically and emotionally, and in return, she’s left with the satisfaction that she is still useful and valued in this world, despite her age and unwed status.
Katharine’s Remarkable Road Trip is a short, fun, and pleasant story that mixes history, a gentle adventure, and a poignant message about our life’s choices and how we choose to view our accomplishments as we get older. Its author, Gail Ward Olmsted, has brought Katharine back to life and crafted a series of experiences for we the readers to experience alongside this long gone historical figure.
You can read my full review here: https://laurasbooksandblogs.com/katha...
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