Wild Heart's Haven

Wagon Train Matches #4

by Lacy Williams

Rachel never wanted to travel into the wilderness. The westward trail has stolen everything from her. Her home. Her family. Her husband. Now a match made out of necessity has trapped her in a marriage with a man she can’t stand.

Owen likes Rachel about as much as his horse likes a burr under its saddle. She’s bossy and stubborn with an independent streak a mile wide. And a baby on the way.

He can’t help feeling responsible for the prickly mother-to-be. A marriage of convenience is the right thing to do. But that doesn’t mean he has to like it. He just has to survive it until they reach Oregon.

Tropes/
*baby on board
*rivals to love
*opposites attract
*protector hero
*emotional scars

Genres: Romance, Historical Fiction, Historical, Historical Romance, Clean Romance, Westerns, Christian Fiction

280 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 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 5 out of 5]

This story really pulled my emotions all over the place. It is book four in the Wagon Train Matches series. If you have read the previous books, you will know that Rachel has had some horrible things happen in her life since she and her husband headed west with a different wagon train. She is now a pregnant widow who is not liked at all by the members of the wagon train which took her in after bandits killed almost everyone she had previously been traveling with, including her husband.

I was frustrated with Owen in the previous book, however, in this story I really liked him and felt for him as he did his best to take care of Rachel. Some of my favorite moments were when he showed how much he actually cared for her even before he truly realized that he did. Those moments were difficult too, because Rachel was so emotionally damaged that she continually lashed out at him.

I was a bit thrown by Leo and Alice’s behavior in this book. Leo’s attitude was more understandable as he and Owen had been at odds in an earlier book, however, Alice seemed to change into a mean spirited bully who actually put Rachel’s life in danger a couple of times and pretty much got away with being hateful.

One of the things I ended up loving about this story was the way Owen ended up realizing that he actually loved his wife. These two had such a contentious relationship yet ended up falling so deeply for each other. It was sweet to see their hearts change.

The Wagon Train Matches series has been so good! I’m really looking forward to the next book in the series.

(4.5 stars)

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...

[Cherokee Ford · Rating 4 out of 5]

It’s my mission to find every book with this micro-trope. And this one did not disappoint. Owen and Rachel were your classic”jerks to each other” turned lovers.

Something about tragic conflict that forces the two characters to confront their feelings for each other really gets me going.

And this ended on a cliffhanger?! I started the series with this book (#4) but based on what I’ve read, the series is about the love stories of different couples on this wagon trail. All woven together.

[Carolyn Bryant · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wild Heart’s Haven is the fourth wonderful addition to the exciting Wagon Train Matches series! After finishing the third book in the series A Trail Untamed, I began looking forward to reconnecting with the wagon train “family” and discovering Rachel and Owen’s story. I was not disappointed! I love protector hero Owen and emotionally scarred Rachel and how their relationship develops through difficult and dangerous circumstances. The fast-moving plot kept me reading with anticipation. The characters in this series are amazing with very diverse personalities and experiences which result in strained and sometimes explosive family relationships. I appreciate the faith thread that is woven into the story so naturally. I highly recommend this book and series especially for fans of inspirational western romance. Note: Each book in the series can be read as a standalone, but I recommend reading them in order for a more complete reading experience.
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.

[Stephanie Newsome · Rating 2 out of 5]

alright, i need to get off the oregon trail.

[Valri Western · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love wagon trail books! They are among my favorites to read! All the books in this series are fantastic. I enjoy the dynamics of this family. It just shows you the things haven't changed from then until now! They are just a little different! Owen still has some family issues and they have gotten bigger in the close quarters on the wagon trail. He must be losing his mind when he decides to marry Rachel who is pregnant and ready to give birth soon. Her husband was killed recently and she joined the wagon train. They don't get along at all and do nothing but argue!
I have liked Owen from the first book and couldn't wait for his story. I was wondering how he and Rachel would work out! I wasn't a big fan of Rachel's character. I understood her stubbornness and bossiness at first because she never wanted to GO West in the first place and all the men in her life have always controlled her, so she has never been able to make her own choices. However, her independence grated on me after a while! Owen, while bossy also, was trying to make her comfortable in her condition and also trying to make the best of things. They weren't a love match but still, he was trying to be friendly, and she fought him constantly. It just seemed like she was ungrateful for everything he tried to do for her and even when she was in danger, she didn't appreciate it. I'm glad she softened, of course, but it went on way too long!
I still loved all the descriptions of frontier life and the drama of what could happen in various situations! Each book shows that, and I love those parts since I love historicals for that reason!

[Psusan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wild Heart's Haven (Wagon Train Matches Book 4) by Lacy Williams is a heart tugging story of learning to rely on God instead of yourself. It may seem like Owen and Rachel are opposites but they are both hard working, stubborn people. The fact that they can’t stand each other in the beginning, always knocking heads is because they are so much alike. Like the two of them I couldn’t see this marriage of convenience lasting any longer than necessary. However, God has his ways.

From the beginning it was obvious that these needed spiritual growth so than emotional growth could follow. At times, their stubbornness is almost comical. They hurt themselves even more than each other. Ms. Williams’ tremulous writing that God never forces, is always kind and He is still watching over each of them. Rachel’s new little one which is born by the end was a cause of concern because of the harsh travel conditions as well as all that happens to this couple. I loved their story’s conclusion.

If the last scene is any indication the next story will be as heart pounding as Wild Heart's Haven. I can hardly wait. Join this wagon trail with Wild Heart's Haven, then catch up with the other books. You won’t be disappointed. Westward Movement historical fans will love this book as well as any Christian fiction fan. Highly recommend to all.

The publisher/author gave me a complimentary digital ARC of the book which I have voluntarily decided to read and review, giving my personal opinions and thoughts.

[Glenda Parker · Rating 5 out of 5]

My review today is on the Christian Historical Romance, Wild Heart's Haven. This is book four in the series Wagon Train Matches. I'm a big fan of Lacy's work. When I read at the end of book three that she was matching these two together I knew it would be good and it was awesome. I loved these two characters. I know you are going to love it too.

Rachel lost her husband when their wagon train was attacked. She and her brother were all she had left. A wagon train came by and allowed them to join. She was very pregnant and all she wanted was to go home. She didn't care who she offended or irritated. Her brother stole a horse and was killed, now she was totally alone. She blamed one of the train's captain, Owen for all her troubles..

Owen doesn't like Rachel in any way. He tries to talk his brother into marrying her but he refused. With no choice he marries her himself. The marriage causes trouble with all his family. His brother and his sister refused to have any thing to do with him. His other brother tells him he saw an East bound train so he asks her if that is still what she wants. They take off alone to find the train.

A terrible journey when the encounter the delivery of her child, an attack of wolves, and a wagon train from hell. 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 work in your life.

[Dana · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wild Hearts Haven by Lacy Williams was the first book I had read in the Wagon Train Matches series. After reading it, I knew I would want to read the previous books also. And, due to the cliffhanger at the end, I’ve already pre-ordered the next book.

Since I had not read the previous books, I did not know the backstory for Rachel and Owen. Thankfully, much of that is revealed in this book, so I could read it as a stand-alone. I came to appreciate Owen’s protector/overseer personality when it became clear that he believes his weakness caused the losses he has suffered. He is not truly weak, but feels he must compensate for his perceived weakness by controlling every situation and protecting every person in his family. Rachel’s grief over the death of her family is realistic, but exacerbated by hurts in her past, all caused by controlling men.

It took me a while to warm up to Rachel and Owen, but I did end up loving them. The changing of the couple’s hearts was gradual, and sometimes choppy, and the author handled them adroitly. However, I must say, my favorite character is Doctor Goodwin. Not only did he work to heal Owen and Rachel’s physical ills, but brought them both to an understanding that, despite the bad that has happened to them, God had always been with them and had provided for them. And, that they could always trust Him.

I was honored to receive an advance copy of this book from the author. This review is my honest opinion of the book.

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

“It’s too bad children aren’t trained like the oxen are. Or wives.” “Don’t you mean husbands?”

Can two people who absolutely cannot stand each other make a marriage of convenience work? I had my doubts.

Family drama, high emotions, faith, and danger abound. I couldn’t turn the pages fast enough. Rachel is an independent and resilient woman. She had some heavy emotions to deal with (loss of her husband in a previous book). I loved seeing her learn to depend on God’s provision and plan. Owen is loyal and a fierce protector of his own. I loved watching him realize that he loved Rachel despite their continual bickering. The trials they faced together definitely made their relationship stronger in the end.

A few more quotes:
“We don’t get along.” “Maybe that was true at first, but we aren’t fighting so much anymore.” “We argued this morning.” “And we found a way to end the argument.”

“God has held you in His hands these past days. The real question is whether you can trust in God and His will for your life. Maybe God put Owen in your path for a reason.”

Note: This is book 4 in the Wagon Train Matches series. While it can be enjoyed as a stand alone, the characters and wagon train trip build from book to book. This was my favorite book of the series!

[Books and Things · Rating 3 out of 5]

I've really enjoyed this series, and I've loved getting to know the characters and watching them grow throughout each book. I love the setting the author has created, and the complex relationships between characters and books.

I may be in the minority, but in comparison to the other books in the series, this one didn't make as much sense to me. Leo had his character arc already in book 1, so to watch as he reverted back to the person he was before was disappointing. Alice has always been sweet and takes in the strays. It didn't make sense for her to revert to being a completely terrible person to Rachel, to call names, and not get the tongue thrashing she deserved. Especially when she was upset for Owen, but then doesn't talk to him anymore? Her character didn't match the other books for me. The main characters hated each other until the last ten percent of the book, so their romance was not as believable as I had hoped it would be, as it, as well as the ending, felt too sudden and rushed.

Although this wasn't quite what I was hoping for with this book, I have still enjoyed other books in this series and I'm looking forward to reading the next as well.

[Jamie Wagnor · Rating 5 out of 5]

now this is what I love

Owen and Rachel were such a great couple to read about. The story built beautifully and it was great seeing their relationship evolve. From the beginning I loved Rachel and Owen. They had a wonderful chemistry together. The bickering and butting of head was fun. They just worked so well as a couple!

The only down side in the book that made me grit my teeth was Collin and Alice’s actions. Alice was just a brat and I didn’t enjoy her getting away with her actions. But I can say that I’m glad some of the tension was put aside and bridges were mended.

Now Collin on the other hand was just a jerk! He is a horrible hypocrite and Stella, unlike the other women that have been shown, just drags him down. But the constant “he’s the good twin” “Collin is the reliable one” “Collin is (insert praise here)” is ridiculous. I kept rolling my eyes each time someone acted like he is better than the others… just ugh. Stella- well I find her to be useless.

I’m really hoping Coop gets a story soon because I love him. Even more after Austin’s story.

Anyway, I really enjoyed Rachel and Owen and hope to see plenty more from this little family

[Linda Marsh · Rating 5 out of 5]

Owen is a Captain on a wagon train heading west. The story begins shortly after Owen’s wagon train finds a woman (Rachel) wondering in the woods, and then sees the results of outlaws having attacked the smaller wagon train. Rachel’s husband died in the attack. She is pregnant and emotionally raw, so does not behave as she would under normal circumstances. Owen would love for Rachel to have somewhere else to go other than his wagon train so he would not have to look after her.

As the story evolves Rachel and Owen spend more time together unwillingly, but Owen does promise to take Rachel back east when there is an opportunity to do so. They encounter more troubles, and must tolerate each other for a longer period of time. Dislike turns to friendship, and thus begins their romance. This was my first read in the “Wagon Train Matches” series and I loved the book so much, I will be reading the other 3 books in the series.

I was provided an ARC copy of this book for my honest opinion.

[Natasha · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such a beautiful story of learning to lean on God, and people He sends.

We meet the characters again but this time it’s Rachel, who is in full grief and anger over her life and circumstances, tired of feeling powerless all the time, and Owen who is fighting to control everyone and everything, who views weakness as something to control, as well. Through challenges, overcoming grief and buried anger, they both learn to open their hearts to possibility of a new love and learn to trust in God and his power that gives peace and strength. The grief is portrayed gently but strongly, the past hurts and anger that hinder life are presented with understanding, and the story flows well as we witness their walls crumbling. I loved the romance (clean and sweet, just non-descriptive kisses) and the unveiling of the depths of the MCs, something we don’t see when we meet them in the previous installment.

The hardest thing to read was the cliffhanger at the very end. Can’t wait to read the next book!

I’ve received a free copy but the opinions are mine and honest.

[Leis Phinney · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a story about a bitter, independent woman forced by circumstances to accept marriage to protect herself and her unborn child. I loved these characters. Even while I was wanting Rachel to soften and accept the life she had, instead of being focused solely on returning East, I could appreciate the reality of her character, and relate to times when I was the same. Owen's steadfast determination to care for her, even when she rejected again and again what he was trying to do for her, was a good example of how God loves us.
There's plenty of action and twists to this story, it's very exciting as well as providing food for thought.
This book is part of a series. The main storyline is a standalone and HEA, but for the best reading experience and to avoid spoilers I recommend reading the books in their published order.
If you hate cliffhangers, be aware that the last scene sets up a situation for the next book. It's not related to Owen and Rachel's story.
I received an ARC of this book and this is my honest opinion.

[Joyce Marion · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rachel's husband and family are killed when their wagon train is attacked by bandits. She is angry and upset to be a part of the train that found her. Rachel feels like everyone has always bossed her around. Her husband wanted to go to Oregon. Rachel just wanted to stay home in OH. She is grieving and angry and ostracizes everyone in the train that rescues her.

Owen is one of the captains on the train. He and Rachel argue constantly. Finally he tells her she should get married so she’ll have the protection of a husband until she gets to Oregon. She challenges him by asking if he is offering. She is surprised when he agrees to a marriage of convenience until they get to Oregon. It causes problems with the rest of the train for various reasons. Mainly no one likes Rachel. They both are struggling. Owen feels that he has failed several of his loved ones in the past. He feels "weak". As they struggle on the trail, they put aside their anger and hurt and work together. Very good!

[Jimnlori · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wild Heart's Haven by Lacy Williams is the fourth book in the Wagon Train Matches series and a definite must read if you love inspirational historical romances.
Owen Mason is just trying to make sure that his family along with the other members of the wagon train get out west safely, but doing that while trying to keep everyone happy has been difficult and at the front of that line is Rachel Duncan.
Rachel Duncan hadn't wanted to come west, but her husband made the decision for the both of them and now he is no longer alive along with her brother. She is so angry about the whole situation she finds herself in and Owen Mason is the main person she is directing that anger at.
When Owen comes up with the plan to keep Rachel safe by marrying her neither of them has any idea what that will mean for them and their relationship.
I really enjoyed this story and look forward to reading more books in this series in the future.

I was given an ARC from the author/publisher. All conclusions are mine and mine alone.

[Karen Baney · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lacy Williams delights readers with the fourth book in the Wagon Train Matches series. Owen and Rachel get along like sandpaper on skin.

Just like sandpaper smooths out the rough edges in wood, the author used Owen and Rachel’s strong personalities and insecurities to smooth out their relationship over time. The sweet romance and engaging plot kept me turning pages late into the night.

Even though this is the fourth book in the series, it can be read as a stand-alone, though I would encourage readers to pick up the whole series. It’s just that GOOD.

I highly recommend this book for fans of clean historical romance with a touch of faith. You will want to read it.

Romance: Very clean. Light kissing.
Faith: Both characters learned to let go of their pasts, trust God, and trust each other.

Disclaimer: I requested and received an advanced copy of this book courtesy of the author. I was not required to give a favorable review. All opinions are my own.

[Mary Ann Speel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great story,enjoyed reading it and recommend it to everyone. The story is about a family in a wagon train heading to Oregon. Owen is the hero and one of the captains for the wagon train. He is traveling to Oregon with his newly found family. Leo Spencer is his half brother and he has twin brothers, Coop and Collin. August,
Owen’s younger brother is also in the wagon train. Leo has met a woman in the wagon train who he falls in love with and married. Rachel is the heroine who is found by Owen along the way. Her husband had been killed when they were attacked by outlaws, her brother Daniel isn’t killed. He is later killed in a gunfight with the same band of outlaws when they attacked the wagon train, leaving Rachel alone. Owen feels bad for her and asks her to marry him with the intention of annulling the marriage when they get to Oregon. Rachel agrees to the marriage of convenience, but all she wants is to return home in the East. Owen agrees to get her back to her family. When he hears about a wagon train passing them to the north heading east he decides to try and meet up with it to take Rachel home. Before they connect with the wagon train Rachel goes into labor and has her baby. Owen helps her trough all of it. Then they continue in their effort to connect with the wagon train heading east. When they connect with the wagon train they realize it is a bad mistake and decide to leave,but not before Owen is attacked. They do make good on their escape and a doctor who was with the wagon train followed them. He decided that Rachel needed help and that is what he did. They turned back to catch up with their original wagon train, but in short order Rachel became very sick due to the birth of Molly her daughter. Owen and the doctor take care of her and Owen takes care of Molly. When Rachel recovered they set out again to catch up with the wagon train and they are successful. Both Owen and Rachel realize that they have fallen in love through all their hardships. HEA results for them.

[Jeanette Durkin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow! Talk about non-stop action and adventure! This is an interesting book about wagon trains, family relations, and love! There's also some danger and intrigue!

The characters were not familiar to me, but they were easy to like and relate to! Owen is a protector, stable and dependable. Rachel is a little rough around the edges. She grew on me as the story progressed.

This book caused me to reflect on the thought that sometimes people are hurting and they hide that hurt in anger or bitterness. I like what the doctor said: "God has held you in His hands these past days. The real question is whether you can trust in God and His will for your life."

I was provided a copy of the book from the author. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[April Wilson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Finding what you really want!

A story of heartache, past regrets, and fear leading to a trust in God and love for your spouse. Owen and Rachel have much baggage in the past and much anger and frustrations. I wondered at some points if they could ever see past it all. But learning it’s ok to be weak, it’s ok to say I’m sorry, and it’s ok to love again finally won. Their characters were relatable because we all have hidden fears and regrets that we must learn to deal with.

I enjoyed the story and will definitely re-visit it, a good addition to the series. Eagerly awaiting the next installment. I received a complimentary copy and these are my voluntary and honest opinions. I was not required to leave a positive review.

[Sherrie · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a fantastic exciting dramatic emotional journey this book is! Thoroughly enjoyed the story of Owen and Rachel. In the beginning, Rachel has lost everything. Literally. Her childhood love Evan, who she married is now dead, left Rachel pregnant and on the wagon train she never wanted to go on. Her brother is dead. So much loss, too much for one person in such a short time. And so many people on the wagon train hate her. She is trying to ferociously work her way forward and figure out how to survive, and how to get back home. Owen takes pity on her, and to keep her safe, offers to marry her. Every twist that comes blows up into something else completely. I couldn’t put it down once I started reading. Looking forward to the reading the next book in this series!

[Norma · Rating 5 out of 5]

Just when I think the stories in this series can't get any better, the author adds another book. Owen and Rachel had such a rough start. They marry for convenience to offer protection to a pregnant Rachel. Different things happen and they both notice each other in a different light. They both learned to trust more in God and His plan and guidance. I loved seeing characters from the previous books in the series. Owen and his half brother, Leo, found thy had more to work out. I'm looking forward to the next book in the series which I'm guessing is about Hollis and Abigail since acouple of chapters in this book focused on them.

I received a free copy of this book from the author and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Theresa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sparring partners

Owen and Rachel have been antagonist to each other since Rachel was found. The wagon train that she and her husband were on was attacked by murdering men who stole the animals and supplies. Her husband hid her in a secret space under the floor boards of their wagon. After the shooting stopped, she waited a while longer before exiting her hiding place and the wagon. She found her husband, brother and his wife and their son deceased. When Owen's wagon train came upon her and her injured brother, they brought them into their wagon train. Rachel was heavily pregnant and she and Owen agreed that she needed a husband to travel with her to take her back East. It's supposed to be a marriage of convenience, but is that really what type of marriage it will be?

[Margie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lacy Williams has taken us along on this wagon train and I’m thankful it’s over a 100 years later and I don’t have to make that trip. I might like travelling but that would have put a damper on any idea of going west. To say that Rachel and Owen got off on the wrong foot would be an understatement, but I’m not sure at that point Rachel had a good foot. Owen has a good heart and good intentions, but at times rushes in where angels might fear to tread. His family doesn’t really help, but they each have their reasons. You can’t help but hurt for each of them. I look forward to the next book.

[Mary · Rating 4 out of 5]

This series has me hooked.

A marriage of convenience, he feels responsible for her, and all she wants is to get back home to her mom in the east. He’s willing to set aside his own family and wants to fulfill his promise even though she is impossible to please. I actually don’t like the female character in this book. She is ungrateful, rude, and self-centered. The male character can be just as bad but his character shifts and matures. I ended up rooting for them to become a couple because of him. I was pleased with the outcome though I’m still not sure I like her. Plus, the author put in just enough hooks for the next book to make me anxious to read it.

[Judy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Family ties can be tenuous at best and can strain the relationship with the slightest bit of jealousy. Owen found his father had. Second family who did not want to be part of his life. Even then he thought he could get them through the trip into the west by wagon train. Hardships and wrangling plus deceit from outside the ranks bring another added friction with the arrival of Rachel nd her family. Many disasters befall pregnant Rachel which boded ill feeling’s with most of Owen’s family. Dangers lie ahead.

[Jodi · Rating 5 out of 5]

Life on the Oregon Trail is dangerous and unpredictable, just as Owen, a captain of a wagon train, and Rachel, a pregnant widow, discover on their trek. Owen rescues Rachel after tragedy falls upon her wagon train. Rachel just wants to go back east to her home. Owen decides that marrying Rachel would be in her best interest and to protect her. However, they don’t get along, so how are they ever going to be civil with each other and make it to Oregon? This book leads us on many adventures and through many emotions.

[Elaine Kiefer · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a great story, the best of the Wagon Train series. I loved watching Owen and Rachel go from enemies to maybe friends to love. They faced many dangers together including the birth of Rachel's baby in the middle of the prairie with only each other to rely on. The family dynamics between Owen and his brothers and sister was at times hard to see, but in the end family won out. I can't wait for the next book in this series.

I received a copy of this book from the author, but the opinions and review are my honest thoughts.

[MommyO · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a fantastic read, why? The realistic writing of the promises, difficulties, and heartache many settlers faced on their way to the west to find a “better life”. The possibility that in the midst of great sorrow there is still room to find happiness and who you are deep inside yourself. This story was a poignant reminder of how the western part of the United States was developed. A wonderful and truly enjoyable read in my opinion. I received an advance review copy and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Lucia Valenzuela · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the first book I have read in the series, but didn’t feel like I came in the middle and had no clue what was going on. It truly is a standalone (except for the very last sentence - no spoilers). Rachel and Owen are both forceful characters, even though as a woman in that time period she is dependent on and subject to her husband’s decisions. I enjoyed reading about the wagon train journey and the trials involved. Great story.
I received a complimentary copy of this book and this is my voluntary, honest review.