To escape a ruthless guardian, Lady Charlotte Fairfax steals away to Montreal to find Reid McCoy, a fur trader who owes her fiancé a debt for saving his life. Even though European women are forbidden from entering the fur trade, Charlotte is desperate to get to her fiancé deep within the northwestern wilderness and begs Mr. McCoy to take her.
Reid McCoy has worked hard for fifteen years to become a shareholder in the North West Company and is on the brink of realizing that dream. Taking Lady Charlotte into the interior will not only put her life at risk, but it could also cost him his dreams. Honor bound to repay his debt, his only option is to have Lady Charlotte dress as a man and enter as his assistant clerk.
With Charlotte's guardian close on their trail, and a personal rival willing to do anything to keep Reid from becoming a shareholder, they will embark on an epic journey that will test not only their strength and courage, but their hearts, as well.Christy Award winner and bestselling author Gabrielle Meyer presents a new and thrilling historical adventure series set in the heart of the North American wilderness.
Gabrielle Meyer grew up above a carriage house on a historic estate near the banks of the Mississippi River, imagining real and make-believe stories about the occupants who had lived there. She went on to work for the Minnesota Historical Society and loves writing fiction inspired by real people, places, and events. She currently resides in central Minnesota on the banks of the Mississippi River, not far from where she grew up, with her husband and four children. By day, she’s a busy homeschool mom, and by night she pens fiction and non-fiction filled with hope. Learn more about Gabrielle and her writing by visiting www.gabriellemeyer.com.
DNF at 26%. First off I want to say how much I love Gabrielle Meyer and her books. I had to DNF this one for things that made me uncomfortable personally, but other people have no problems with it. I loved Reid and Charlotte. And was very captivated with the beautiful writing and story. There were just a couple things that made me uncomfortable, one being how Charlotte thoroughly checked out Reid with his shirt off and then later drew him that way and her thoughts while drawing it. The other was when the men stopped in an Indian area and the women were given to the men for the night. The MMC did not participate. This scene was just a little too detailed for me personally, that it made me uncomfortable , less detail would have been better, but again other readers might not have issue. Other than that I really loved what I read. I HIGHLY recommend this author’s Timeless Series if you haven’t read it, it’s amazing!
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
I loveeeed it. Don’t have much to say on this, mainly because my thoughts have yet to completely solidify on it…mostly because I read the majority of this book in only a few hours. This book gripped me from the first page, and held my attention through the entirety of the novel. The writing sucked me in immediately, and the characters were so real and authentic. I especially loved Reid but of course I did…he’s a handsome Scottish man with a beautiful accent and a wonderful personality. Though it took me three days to read it, I only read one chapter on the first day, and then three on the second before binging the rest of the book in one sitting 🤭 no I’m not ashamed to admit that lol I’m quite proud of me avoiding responsibility to read a good book. At least in this season of life I will say, for those that may be more sensitive readers, you probably won’t enjoy this book. It deals with some heavy topics and violence, along with more detailed romance than I know some of my friends would prefer. It was still closed door and was not explicit, but it was more romance than some may want to read. Very descriptive about each other and kissing. It didn’t bother me, and I was fine with it but some may not, so if you’re sensitive to those things, keep that in mind.
Some books pull readers in with the first page, but it's rare to find one that grips the heart, mind, and spirit with such intensity. The Fur Trader’s Lady by Gabrielle Meyer does just that. It’s far more than a story; it’s an experience. Each page is a gift, tempting me to devour it in one sitting or savor every word—this tension only deepens the book’s magnetic pull.
Lady Charlotte steps onto the cold, foreign streets of Montreal, her resolve quiet but unshakable. Her inner turmoil is palpable, but so is her fierce determination. She isn’t a damsel waiting to be saved; she's a woman of action, determined to carve her own path despite overwhelming obstacles. Her bold choice to travel to Montreal, knowing the dangers European women face entering the interior, sets the stage for a perilous journey that will change her.
Reid McCoy, a fur trader with a dream within reach, enters the story with a deep sense of honor to repay a debt to Charlotte’s fiancé. His decision to assist her goes beyond duty—it's a test of strength, courage, and faith. What makes Reid stand out is his quiet reliance on God for guidance, not just his physical endurance. When he prays—“May we not stray from the path You have set before us… May we bring Your name and Your Word to people who do not know You”—the weight of those words is powerful. His journey isn’t just a physical trial; it’s a spiritual one, revealing his true character.
What makes the Christian faith so integral to this story is how seamlessly it’s woven into each character’s struggles. Reid’s prayers and Charlotte’s whispered pleas show a deep dependence on God. Their hardships aren’t just external—they challenge the very strength of their trust in Him.
The growing bond between Charlotte and Reid is another cornerstone of the book. It’s built on respect, mutual trust, and a shared faith. Their connection deepens as they confront their personal limitations and learn to rely on each other and God in ways they never anticipated. The raw honesty of their relationship makes it feel real and meaningful.
The pacing deserves special mention as Meyer expertly balances heart-pounding action with moments of introspection. The rugged wilderness of the fur trade comes to life in such a way that it’s almost tangible—I could feel the cold winds and hear the crack of branches beneath their boots. This landscape is as unforgiving as it is breathtaking, and Meyer captures both its awe and danger with perfection.
Humor also provides a welcome respite in the darkest moments. Whether it’s Charlotte awkwardly disguising herself as a man or Reid’s gruff remarks during her training, these brief moments of levity offer glimpses of joy in the midst of hardship.
As the final pages unfold, Gabrielle Meyer weaves everything together beautifully, leaving me with a deep sense of peace and hope that lingers. This story is about surviving trials, emotional growth, and spiritual healing. Both Charlotte and Reid experience lovely change—individually and as a couple. Their journey is heartwarming and inspiring.
The Fur Trader’s Lady invites you into its pages and pulls you in, irresistibly but surely, until you become part of the journey. This story captivates with its adventure, challenges the heart, and strengthens the spirit. It’s a novel that leaves a lasting mark on your soul, its power lingering with the quiet assurance that faith and courage can transform even the hardest journeys into a testimony of grace.
I received a digital ARC of this book from the author. I am not required to write a positive review nor paid to do so. This is my honest and unbiased review. My thoughts and opinions expressed in this book review are my own. My review focuses on the writing and story’s content, ensuring transparency and reliability.
DNF @ 51% — the writing is choppy, does not flow, and has a lot of telling vs showing. The relationship is unrealistic since it’s based only off of attraction so far. There have already been several inappropriate and unrealistic scenes considering the time period (early 1800s). Not to mention the main FC draws the MC nude, just the top half I know, but all the attention she gives it is just weird since she’s in search of another man she’s actually betrothed to.
I don’t know how many times I’ve said that I’m obsessed with this cover, but once again, LOVE IT SO MUCH. And I love Gabrielle Meyer’s books a lot too.
This was a great read about a time period and setting that I knew little about prior. The complicated history and dynamics out on the trail and backwoods was interesting to learn about and sparked talking points and thoughts about the story.
I enjoyed the romance. It’s sweet and heated and alllll of the forced proximity is forever my favorite. I loved Charlotte’s tenacity to see herself to a better future and how tender and protective Reid was about caring for her.
This did start to feel a little long and there were a few plot things that didn’t quite work for me, but I thought it was a good start to a new series and I look forward to more stories and characters.
Overall audience notes: - Historical romance - Language: none - Romance: kisses - Violence: moderate - Content Warnings: attempted sexual assault, murder, gun violence, physical altercations, near death experiences
I’m always amazed at how soon I’m enveloped in the story when reading anything by Gabrielle Meyers. This is a wonderful story with great attention to detail. The adventure had me turning pages far into the night.
The main characters were so real and their stories compelling. I loved their interactions and their relationship.
The setting was beautiful. You could easily imagine the scenery and situations from the colorful descriptions.
I was reminded of the book “Mrs. Mike” as, though different stories, the female characters were in a wilderness setting dealing with situations far from what they were used to. In both, their love of a good man kept them going.
If you love history, a good love story with strong characters you will love this book. There was an underlying theme of integrity, honor and forgiveness, which played a huge part in this story.
I’m so excited about this series and can’t wait to see what comes next.
2.5 stars for the historical aspects of the fur trade I never knew about. And the writing was atmospheric and descriptive. I took away stars because I wasn’t comfortable with the way the romance/relationship was based solely on the forced proximity and physical attraction. It felt lustful. It made me feel icky. Like why did I feel the need to skip pages because I didn’t know what was coming. 😬 A lot of other reviews will say the same thing. I almost DNFed but kept going because it was written in a way that the MCs were ashamed/knew that their feelings were wrong (in the sense that the FMC was betrothed to another man). But it didn’t get any better. It kept happening. It makes me sad to give such a low rating,but this didn’t feel like a typical Gabrielle Meyer book and I don’t think I can give it as a recommendation. I don’t know what her intentions were, but it just wasn’t for me. 😔
Meticulous attention to detail and rich, deep character arcs make this an exceptional historical romance. I highly recommend this book and look forward to reading the next in the series.
The Fur Trader’s Lady by Gabrielle Meyer throws you into a canoe and paddles you straight into the rugged 19th-century fur trade—where love, danger, and faith collide in the most breathtaking ways.
Lady Charlotte Fairfax isn’t waiting around to be rescued. On the run from a ruthless guardian, she makes a daring escape—disguising herself as a man and persuading rugged fur trader Reid McCoy to lead her into the treacherous wilderness toward her betrothed. But deception comes at a cost, and survival is only half the battle.
What follows is a high-stakes, frostbitten journey of survival, deception, faith, and one seriously inconvenient romance.
𝗪𝗵𝘆 𝗬𝗼𝘂’𝗹𝗹 𝗟𝗢𝗩𝗘 𝗧𝗵𝗶𝘀 𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸: 🛶 Action & Adventure – A treacherous journey filled with danger, rival traders, and a relentless villain. 🎭 Disguise Hijinks – Watching Charlotte attempt to pass as “Charlie” is hilarious (pipe-smoking? A disaster). 💘 Swoony Romance – Slow-burn, emotionally charged, and rooted in respect and faith. 🙏 Faith That Feels Real – Reid and Charlotte’s prayers hit deep, woven seamlessly into the story. 🤣 Humor Amid Hardship – Reid’s gruff one-liners + Charlotte’s stubborn determination = perfection. 🦌 Immersive Setting – You’ll feel the icy winds and hear the crack of branches underfoot.
𝗧𝗼𝗽 𝗠𝗼𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁𝘀 𝘁𝗼 𝗪𝗮𝘁𝗰𝗵 𝗙𝗼𝗿 🔥 A bold disguise & an even bolder wager – Charlotte’s transformation into “Charlie” isn’t exactly… subtle. 🏕️ Close quarters & stolen glances – When survival depends on staying close, keeping emotions in check becomes a whole new challenge. 💥 Showdowns, sabotage & secrets – Hidden enemies and unexpected betrayals keep danger lurking at every turn. 🙏 A prayer that lingers – Reid’s quiet, heartfelt moment with God will stay with you long after the last page
𝗖𝗼𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗻𝘁 & 𝗧𝗿𝗶𝗴𝗴𝗲𝗿 𝗪𝗮𝗿𝗻𝗶𝗻𝗴𝘀 ⚠️ Mild references to sexual assault & historical realities of the fur trade (not graphic, but acknowledged). Faith-based, slow-burn romance with fade-to-black intimacy.
𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫 4.5/5 stars – An irresistible blend of romance and adventure kept me hooked! A few pacing hiccups made some moments feel a bit rushed, but I’d still trade my finest pelts for a sequel. 😍🛶
Set in the beautiful North American wilderness, where Lady Charlotte Fairfax has asked fur trader, Reid McCoy, to take her to her fiancé to save her furure and family inheritance.
Right from the start, this story drew me in with its push-and-pull tension, deep introspection, thrilling adventure, gripping twists and turns, and the passionate, yet tender love story.
Trust and dependency on God is intertwined throughout the story as the characters face their past and the many trials they encounter.
The spice level is limited to kissing, but there’s plenty of swoon-worthy tension and undeniable heated chemistry between the main characters.
I enjoyed immersing myself in the northwestern interior, gaining a glimpse of its breathtaking scenery and learning more about the local Native American culture and their relations with fur traders of the time. The insights into the fur trade, both throughout the story and in the author’s notes, were truly fascinating. 10/10✨
Thank you so much to Gabrielle Meyer for sending me an advanced e-copy of this book!
Available February 10, but you can preorder now.
Content: descriptive kissing scenes, a fade-to-black scene on wedding night, there are cultural practices that were difficult, some mild violence.
What a fantastic read! I was hooked from the opening prologue. I had never read a book set in the fur trading world, so it was fascinating to learn about that. Charlotte was so strong and brave. She left all she knew to escape a terrible future. She did what she had to do to survive, but never compromised herself. And Reid… what a wonderful leading man. I loved his hard exterior, but on the inside he was loyal and loving. I loved these two together. Lots of swoon worthy moments!
I absolutely love Gabrielle Meyer’s writing. I love how she weaved in faith and romance with the whole backdrop of the rugged and dangerous surroundings. This was such an exciting read, that I couldn’t read it fast enough! There were also some unexpected twists and turns that you didn’t see coming. If you’re looking for a new and exciting series, this one is for you. I hope you’ll fall in love with Charlotte and Reid’s story as much as I have.
Thank you so much Gabrielle for the advanced e-copy of your wonderful book!
I once read a book title that had the word “unputdownable” in the title. Without having a better word, that’s what this book is. When I pick up a Gabrielle Meyer book, I always know I’ll be in for a rollercoaster of emotions, but everything will work out in some way at the end with the characters accepting the path God has set before them.
The ability to create these beautiful, historical worlds is one of the reasons why Gabrielle Meyer is my favorite author. Meyer is so knowledgeable about the topics she’s writes about. So much so, that these books are not just a novel, but a history lesson about that time period. These books are very historically accurate, and could serve as a “living book”.
The Fur Traders Lady is about Lady Charlotte Fairfax escaping to Montreal to escape the grip of her guardian, Roger Rutherford's devious plans for her inheritance. She searches for Reid McCoy, her fiancé, and Stephen Coring, who has promised Charlotte, Reid will help her if needed. Reid owes Stephen a debt which he will carry out.
I never thought my Canadian history classes would lure me to read a book about the fur trade, which was much better told in this book. I enjoyed The Fur Traders Lady so much more than my history class! I am looking forward to the next book in this series!
I found it funny that there were quite a few reviews on this book that said there was too much history about the fur trade to keep them interested. Historical fiction is my favorite and I thought this sounded interesting because I’ve never read anything like this! For me it was too heavy on the romance and too light on the history.
Their relationship was based solely on their physical attraction and extended period of time forced into each others company. The sexual tension that was written was cringy and also had me thinking that maybe this wouldn’t be a clean book and I’d have to DNF it for smuttyness, luckily that wasn’t the case. But I almost DNFed it for the cringe factor on multiple occasions.
After taking a hiatus from reading for over 6 months, I picked up The Fur Trader’s Lady and was immediately pulled in! The story is set in a period I knew little about, and I found myself fascinated reading all the beautiful details the author included. Meyer has a way of immersing you in history, transporting you back in time as you walk alongside the characters through their journey. Her dedication to her research and her craft is obvious with each page turn, and I found it hard to put down and return to reality. Make sure you read the author's note at the end - she shares some of the sources she used when researching! Meyer wrote in such a captivating fashion that I found myself deeply curious about the people of the Fur Trade and find myself wanting to do additional research on this piece of history!
Reid McCoy may be my new favorite hero of all time. His strong morals, coupled with his fierce protectiveness of our heroine, Charlotte “Charlie” Fairfax, make him the perfect lead as we delve deep into a story full of intrigue, suspense, and hidden identity. We run across many situations where Reid has to decide if he will follow his strongly rooted morals (and therefore the God he worships) or take the easy or conventional way out. Revenge, danger, strength, and redemption are just some of the central themes of this beautiful story. The overarching theme of forgiveness and how it can transform a person’s life was absolutely beautiful and well portrayed.
Our heroine, Charlotte “Charlie” Fairfax, is a beautiful, resilient young woman willing to do anything to avoid a horrible future married to her guardian, who treats her no better than a caged animal. I truly admired her ability to cling to her faith, even in the darkest moments. Her will to survive and to escape to a better life sets the tone for our story and propels it forward with dangerous delight!
Pick this book up and read it - you’ll be glad you do!
Well, this is a story that sticks with you. I had stopped at one point in the story one night that was rather open-ended to how that particular spot would play out. So what did I do? I dreamed about it. All. Night. Long. And every time I woke up and went back to sleep (I don't sleep well), I would go right back to dreaming about it. Of course in my dreams, I would have different scenarios and endings. At one point, I had modernized it, and they were texting! In case you didn't know, the fur traders didn't have that capability. 🤣
It was fascinating to read about the fur traders and the lives they lived. It also broke my heart for the wives. There is so much about history to learn from.
If you too want a romance that'll stick with you, read The Fur Trader's Lady.
~I was given a complimentary copy of this book. No positive review was required, and all opinions are my own.~
“I’d give up everything for you.” He kissed the top of her head. “From this day until the one I die, I dinna want to leave your side ever again.”
🌲The Fur Trader’s Lady by Gabrielle Meyer🌲
Where to even start? This story was everything! From the vivid imagery of the setting, to the flawed characters trying their best to stay safe and to stick to their morals, and the riveting plot, Gabrielle has given us another masterpiece!
Gabrielle is amazing at capturing the essence of the time period she writes about. In this one, we are thrust into the early 1800s, starting in England and following briefly the journey Lady Charlotte goes on to get to rugged North America to escape her guardian, who plans to marry her for her inheritance. Then we follow her as she meets Reid McCoy, Fur Trader, and his company who she asks to take her across the wilderness to her long-time friend and intended, Stephen. I literally thought I was right there with Reid and Charlotte as they navigated their forbidden feelings. As they paddled their canoe on the rivers and lakes of North America (Canada and North USA). As they ate their meals, ran from her guardian, and met others along the way.
I loved their beautiful romance story. It is tender, chaste, and will steal your breath away, just like Charlotte's beauty takes Reid's breath away. Even though Reid and Charlotte have their flaws, they are also believable, and good, and stick to their promises and morals. I loved how they relied on God and trusting Him.
This book had me on the edge of my seat, and at one point toward the end, I had to stop right at a part I shouldn't have been interrupted at, so of course as soon as I could, I picked it right back up and devoured the rest.
Learning the history of the fur trade was really shocking. I had no idea the men used indigenous women the way they did. While this one deals with some delicate topics, Gabrielle did a fabulous job at treating those subjects with the utmost care and fragility, while also not glossing over the facts.
I 100% recommend this one to anyone who loves a story rich in history, characters, and plot. And I look forward to the rest of this series!
Favorite Parts: 🌲He saves her 🏔️Forced proximity 🌲Lady on the run 🏔️Beautiful Christian themes 🌲Scottish MMC 🏔️So many tender moments 🌲Waterfall scene 🏔️He keeps her safe And so many more!
Content Guide: Language: none Romance Content: passionate kissing (some very sensual), fade-to-black (nothing descriptive), Intense feelings of attraction, nudity (a woman’s top half-nothing described) implied intimacy between the men and indigenous women, attempted seduction; Substance Use: smoking, drunkenness and alcohol (side characters); Violence/gore: attempted s3xual assault, dangerous peril, gunshot wounds, murder, abuse of women Religious Content: Christian messages-forgiveness, celibacy and staying true to Christian values and commitments, trusting God Other: death, emotional abuse, talk of infidelity and abandonment, arson, death, pregnancy, parental abandonment
Series: Ladies of the Wilderness bk 1 Genre: Historical Christian Romance; 1800s North America Romance Level: Closed-door (see content warnings) Release Date: February 10, 2025 Publisher: Indie POV: Dual Where you can find it: Amazon, KU
Thank you to the Author for the review copy. All thoughts are my own.
I knew I would love this book, and I really loved it. ❤️❤️❤️
One of my favorite vacation memories is of visiting the Old Fort William fur trade post, a living history site near Thunder Bay, Ontario, north of the Grand Portage site that plays prominently in this book. I fell in love with the history of the fur trade and the French voyageurs who transported the people, equipment, and furs through the water routes. This book brings that world to life.
Lady Charlotte Fairfax is desperate to escape her home and her abusive guardian, who she will be forced to marry on her 18th birthday, in two weeks. Then Charlotte, her home, and her fortune will be his. Charlotte’s only hope is to steal away to Montreal, then travel into the North American wilderness to find her childhood friend who promised to marry her.
In Montreal, she must find the man who owes Stephen a life debt, Reid McCoy, and convince him to take her over a thousand miles by canoe through lakes, rivers, and portages across land. Reid feels honor-bound to repay his debt, but it is illegal to take a European woman into the fur trade territory. Their only option is to dress her as a boy working as his assistant clerk.
They are immediately plunged into a world of danger and adventure in the vividly described, rugged beauty of the fur trader routes. A protective Scot with a thick brogue (which makes me giddy) and devoted to what is right, Reid falls into a forbidden attraction to his beautiful clerk. He and Charlotte cultivate a strong friendship that is challenged by their own growing attraction to each other, as well as outside factors.
Many twists and turns make for an all-absorbing story that is difficult to put down. This stirring historical romance is well-researched, as are all of Gabrielle’s books. This is my favorite of her books.
I’m looking forward to the rest of The Ladies of the Wilderness series.
I absolutely devoured this book in one day (and laaaaate into the night)
I’ve realized I have a thing for HR heroines who need to disguise themselves as men (see note at the bottom)* and the heroes who figure it out and/or help them keep up the ruse (because danger, duh). In this case, throw in a big, protective Scot with a thick brogue, and I’m a putty in the author’s hands.
Reid and Charlotte are a *chef’s kiss* blend of longing, loving, and letting go.
Don’t let the closed door fool you, the building tension and forbidden attraction between them is electric. The little (but actually not little at all) intimacies they share will squeeze your breast bone and give it the most delicious ache.
This is my first book from Gabrielle, and I instantly adored her writing. Vivid, descriptive, and full of emotion, I was pulled into the plot and characters right away. I thoroughly enjoyed the unique setting for this beautiful love story. As someone who reads mostly historical romance, the fur trade was a fresh and quite interesting world to dive into.
I read this on KU, but I’m ordering a paperback to have a permanent place on my shelves.
Gabrielle, in case you are bravely scrolling reviews, if you need an early reader for the next book in this series, I selflessly volunteer as tribute!
*A Girl Called Samson by Amy Harmon *The Wolf and the Wildflower by Stacy Reid (I wholeheartedly recommend these as well)
I absolutely loved this book! I was transported into this world from page one and my attention was held the entire time. I nearly finished it in one evening simply because I could not put the book down!
I loved Charlotte and Reid right from the start! I admired Charlotte for her courage and kindness. She was a wonderful heroine! I adored Reid! He was the best hero! I was swooning every time he called Charlotte “lass”. I loved watching him grow throughout the book. He was so thoughtful and compassionate. The way he respected, protected, and cared for Charlotte was beautiful. I love a good protective hero, especially a Scottish one!❤️
The romance was SO well-written and so sweet. I loved Reid and Charlotte so much!
I really loved the wilderness setting! I’ve learned that I love plots where the characters are going on a journey through the wilderness so I loved that aspect of the story. It gave me the sense of being on an adventure. There was also plenty of suspense since Charlotte is running from her guardian. The history was also really interesting to me!
I loved the faith in this story as well! It enriched the story so much.❤️
Content notes: I’d recommend this book to ages 18+ since it does have more adult content. This one was a heavier on the romance at times but all was closed door/fade to black. There are some descriptive kisses and intense attraction.
In conclusion, this book was amazing! I couldn’t put it down. I was completely lost in the story. It is definitely a new favorite! I cannot wait to read the next book in this series. If you enjoy books with: - forced proximity trope - forbidden romance trope - protective, Scottish hero - courageous heroine - secret identity trope - characters traveling through the wilderness - inspiring faith I think you’ll love this book!
3.5⭐️ What a wonderful adventurous story! The setting and wilderness survival aspects were my absolute favorite about this book! I would say the cons would just be that for a christian fiction there were some scenes that felt strange to me, to be in a christian novel. There were times I felt disinterested as well. But over all a great book, and one I’d recommend. I will continue the series for sure. ♥️
No spice Triggers: Violence Murder Attempted sexual assault Child abandonment
This is book one in the new Ladies of the Wilderness series from author Gabrielle Meyer! I’m absolutely obsessed with Gabrielle’s Timeless series, so when she announced this book, I knew I had to jump in. She has an incredible gift of bringing history to life – dropping you right into the setting where you find yourself seeing and smelling everything around you from her descriptive words on the page. I’ve never read a book that focused on the fur trading industry before, but you’ll find yourself completely immersed in this one. Full of adventure, suspense, unexpected romance and great messages of faith woven throughout.
Lady Charlotte is on the run from her abusive guardian who is bound and determined to marry her. She sets off for Montreal where she meets up with Reid McCoy, a friend of her fiancé’s who helps her hide out and travel along with the North West Company fur traders. Tricky part being women of course are not allowed in this trade so Charlotte must join in the travels under disguise as a man. She pretends to be Reid’s assistant clerk, Charlie. This epic journey stretches her both emotionally and physically. Although her goal is to reach her fiancé before she’s forced to marry her abuser, she winds up catching feelings for Reid as they are forced to spend so much time together. The fact is, she hasn’t seen her fiancé in years and their connection was surface level compared to hers and Reid’s.
The fur trade industry is very cutthroat and the “use” of native women during travels is unfortunately quite common practice. A practice in which Reid doesn’t participate in. Reid’s heart is devoted to God and is saving himself for his one true love and marriage – although the idea of marriage has always taken a back seat to his heart’s desire of becoming a shareholder in the fur trade. That is, of course, until Charlotte begins to win his heart. Reid’s respect for women was truly beautiful and impressive. He was very empathetic, and his heart of gold displayed itself on each page. A magnificent MMC.
Trigger Warning: Some reference to sexual abuse and assault. Women being given and used by men for sexual pleasures. Nothing descriptive on the page.
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I found this story to be an exciting, page-turning, epic adventure. From the very beginning I was pulled into this story and didn’t want to put the book down. I highly recommend this delightful story!
“But what if the choice I make does not please God?”“God is bigger than our mistakes.”
I honestly love Gabrielle Meyer’s writing! I found myself completely engrossed in the amazing beauty of the setting and am now interested in yet another historical period. I enjoyed learning more about the fur trade and how the culture around the trading posts worked. Charlotte was so incredibly brave and strong to be able to not only escape from a truly toxic environment but also take herself on a journey to a new country and live in a lifestyle that was completely foreign to her! This was a time when women rarely traveled on her own and she had lived a pampered life up until this. She adapted and never let her circumstances keep her down long. And Reid was so incredibly supportive and kind that he made Rutherford look even worse. His integrity and empathy just shone. I enjoyed every moment of this story and can’t wait for the next book in the series. Thank you, Gabrielle Meyer, for gifting me an e-arc of this book. The content of my review was not affected in any way by this.
The Fur Trader's Lady is INSTANTLY going on my favorites shelf! It is a lush, adventurous story of longing and romance where the setting is as much a character as the leading couple. Charlotte and Reid are a soul-deep match to root for. I am enamored with the real-life history of the fur trade and its local customs and global reach portrayed in this story. (I just might be dreaming of a vacation to Minnesota to see it for myself).
I enjoyed a great many things about this tale: the transparent communication between Reid and Charlotte, the pining and delicious romantic tension, the adventure and bravery of Charlotte, the heroic integrity of Reid, the immersive style Meyer employs to depict the wilderness and the various cultures, and the never-predictable twists and turns of the story. I will be rereading this one with JOY. Bravo to Meyer for indie-publishing this book -- and with more to come!