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Wagon Train Matches #7

Freedom's Distant Frontier

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Lily Fairfax is drowning in grief and mourning the man she once loved when she finds herself tangled in a web of danger. She has no choice but to lean on a hired hand she barely knows for protection, though she vows she won't open her heart to love again.

Matt Grayson has been traveling with the Oregon-bound wagon train on a secret mission to recover a stolen jewel. He knows Lily's family is involved, and as he gets closer to Lily, he soon finds himself torn between his quest and protecting the tenacious woman who quickly captures his heart. Because of his deception, he finds himself part of a family forged on the wilderness trail.

But as the threat draws ever closer, Matt's secrets loom large. If Lily discovers the truth about him, Matt will lose the future he's barely allowed himself to dream of. And if he can't protect her, he might lose Lily completely...

217 pages, Kindle Edition

Published May 2, 2025

363 people are currently reading
94 people want to read

About the author

Lacy Williams

192 books1,286 followers
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 .

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 60 reviews
Profile Image for Natasha.
373 reviews
April 26, 2025
Gospel-centered, action-packed, beautiful story of redemption and love

This is not a stand alone book but the story rather follows the development of the relationships set in the previous books of the series.
So much is packed In this novel (18 chapters), though: clean romance, secrets, danger, old enemies resurfacing, elements in the wild, redemption arc, found as well as strengthened faith, to name a few.

Lily, pregnant and grieving the sudden death of the man she was seeing in secret, feels utterly alone and forgotten as the wagon trail trudges toward Oregon. She longs to be loved and remembered, but since leaving Ireland many months before none of her hopes have realized. Her past broken friendships left her lacking trust and her present strained relationships with the older sisters keep her longing to be recognized and understood. It is the trials and uncertainties that come on the wagon train that make her question God’s goodness but God uses this time to lead her back into His loving arms.
And here comes Matt, with his own secrets and hopes, believing himself unworthy, with no need for God or His love. These two definitely are “prodigal sons” personified but as they face challenges and mostly as they grow closer, they find God already has opened arms lovingly welcoming them home.

One of my favorite parts of this series is to see God glorified as He shows himself to the characters. The other is to follow the characters as they reappear, mature, continue to be a part of the train and the lives of their loved ones. And as the reader gets immersed in the story of Lily and Matt, so do the side characters’s stories unfold and tease for more. Multiple POV make it easy to see the workings of their minds and desires of their hearts. And the comfortable, beautiful prose encourages you to turn one more page.

Although the main characters rejoice at their HEA, the epilogue hints at more, with another story in the making. The wagon Trail is not over.

The book is heartwarming, engaging, and simply so so good.

I had a privilege to read an advanced copy and absolutely loved it! All opinions expressed are my own
Profile Image for Carolyn Bryant.
919 reviews79 followers
May 2, 2025
With the addition of this exciting, heart-tugging chronicle, the Wagon Train Matches series just keeps getting better and better! This gripping story moved me deeply and resonated with my soul. Everything I look for in Inspirational Western Romance I found here--adventure, wonderful characters, heartwarming romance, inspiring faith, and authentic settings. As the wagon train continues to roll down the Oregon Trail, some storylines from the previous books in the series continue and new ones begin. Once again, the travelers face peril after peril that test their courage and perseverance. Superb storytelling skill and descriptions that paint unforgettable word pictures and engage all the senses had me feeling the story as I read it. The to-be-continued cliffhanger ending left me happy knowing that there is more of this wonderful journey ahead. I highly recommend this book and the series. Note: Even though many of the characters are carryover ones, this book can easily be read as a standalone, but reading the books in order enriches the reading experience.
I read an early copy of this book from the author. All thoughts and opinions are my own
Profile Image for Jeannette Harbottle.
741 reviews10 followers
May 2, 2025
Action packed as one has come to expect from the ‘Wagon train Matches’ series. At last the hunt for the ruby reaches a climax but the epilogue leaves one with another cliffhanger.
I love the way Matt realizes his need to become a new person and allows Rusty to introduce him to Jesus.
I will have to sit on the edge of my chair while I wait for the next book in the series!
Profile Image for Jamie Wagnor.
250 reviews2 followers
May 8, 2025
the sweet with the bitter

This review will have spoilers because I’m so frustrated by some of the characters- really two characters- and to explain that I have to do spoilers. But before that:

I really loved Lily and Matt. They were a wonderful match and Matt’s journey throughout the story was so heartwarming. Lily was a great leading woman. Her compassion was kinda surprising since she was a little bit of a brat in the previous books. This story let her shine in a way I wasn’t expecting.

Matt was also a great lead. His story arc was one that, true was predictable, still resonated. It was a man finding hope and purpose and giving himself to God, wanting to better himself in a way we should all want to. I enjoyed all of their moments together.

One thing I love about this series is the interlocking stories and the way the characters develop over time. Most grow and make you love them more with each story… then there are the TWO -

Spoilers ahead:

The reason these books will not be getting a perfect 5 stars from me is because of Stella and Collin. These are the worse characters. Stella on her own is very unlikable. She’s judgmental and rude and a horrible sister. Everything she does is selfish. The way she treats her younger sisters is despicable. Her lack of support has been glaring from book 2- which was Stella and Collin’s book. Collin is a bit of a different story. Away from the hag monster that is his wife- he is mildly tolerable. With her- I would be okay if they got lost in the woods never to be heard from or seen again. It’s gotten to the point where, when she was hurt- I felt nothing. I was almost cheering on her departure, because the story would be better without her. This has been a steady complaint for a good portion of the books. It’s hard to sympathize with a couple when they actively put everyone at risk for selfish and stupid reasons. Collin is often shown as the “good twin” which is hilarious when you look at the actions of his wife and his own lack of testosterone when it comes to putting hundreds of men, women and children at risk for their own sakes. I don’t know if the author realizes that she’s done that, but once again- these two ruin the story. Also Leo needs to stop always taking Collin’s side. His brother put his wife and child at risk as well.
Profile Image for Kristi W - Book Love By Kristi.
373 reviews18 followers
April 29, 2025
“God does want a sheep like you,” she said, her eyes sparking with determination. “And I’d be blessed to have a friend like you, too. I never answered you the other night, but I do want to—I want us to be friends.”

A story filled with faith, redemption, restoration, action, danger, and love.

This is book 7, as such it would be much more enjoyable in its place in the series. The series has some over arching storylines. This book gives a little resolution and a little development but the epilogue makes it abundantly clear this wagon trail is not over.

This book like all the others is full of danger and there are a few plot twists.

I really liked Matt. He is protective and encouraging of Lily. His character growth and desire to be a better/different man leading to his redemption were amazing. Lily has faced some heartache and faces some struggles. Seeing her learning to trust again and leaning into the comfort of her Heavenly Father and His faithfulness were beautiful. Matt and Lily have a wonderful strangers to friends to more relationship, that was delightful to see grow.

One thing I find very interesting is how the wagon train families work together for the good of the group. Seeing all of the characters from previous books and watching their relationships develop is so fun!

If you are looking for an amazing series set during America’s Westward Expansion, I highly recommend the Wagon Train Matches series.

Another quote:
“I think you’re the man who noticed how much my sister is hurting—you’re the one who told me to make up with her. I almost didn’t have a chance. Now I will, thanks to you. I see the way you look at her when you think no one is looking, like you’re starving for a meal you’ll never have.”

This ARC was provided by the author. I was not required to give a positive review, rating and opinions are my own.
358 reviews5 followers
May 2, 2025
Another great book in this series. Truly enjoyed reading it. It held your attention as you read about a wagon train heading to Oregon territory so the people could build a new life. Besides facing the normal threats encountered in the passage they had men following the wagon train and did not know why. The H and h became close as the H wanted to get a jewel that the h’s sister had taken. His helpfulness began as a means to search for the jewel but as he spent more time with the h, her natural kindness drew him to her. He ends up protecting her and even saved her life at one point. When the wagon train becomes broken up into two sections and the back part comes under attack the H is identified as working for the man who sent the attackers. He admitted his past but says that he had changed his mind and he was no longer working for the man. Since he had already shown his commitment to the wagon train by saving lives and being shot himself they don’t know what to think. Then he works on a means to get across the quicksand, which has trapped the wagons, so that he can get to the men who have attacked the wagon train. One of the leaders of the wagon train finds him working on the foot gear he was making, the idea of the h, and says he is going with him. They guickly make a second set of foot gear which works an they get across the quicksand with out problems. After climbing the cliffs they reach the gunmen and overcome them. The wagon train is able to reconnect with out further incidents. The H and h are able to forgive each other and make a commitment declaring their love for each other. You can’t help but get involved in the events that occurred to the h and H and they keep your attention and keep you reading. Hope you enjoy reading this book as much as I did. Can’t wait for the continuation of the story. Enjoy!
Profile Image for Glenda Parker.
Author 14 books22 followers
May 5, 2025
My review today is on the Christian Historical Western, Freedom Distant Frontier. This is book seven in the series Wagon Train Matches. I have loved this series and I have really enjoyed the characters. It's great to be able to see these characters grow and evolve. I am a big fan of Lacy's work. I'm not sure how she keeps coming up with these new ideas and hazards. This is an incredible book and I know you are going to love it.

Lily Fairfax just lost the man she loved. Now she must face her family as an unwed mother. Being the baby of her family she is totally lost and unable to function. How could she become a mother. Her family is right. After an accident with quicksand she adopts a baby calf. She is having trouble keeping her alive. Then a man comes along side of her to help. Could she trust this man?

Matt Grayson has had a rough life as an orphan. His boss sends him to find a jewel that was stolen. He hires on to the wagon train knowing Lily's family has this jewel. But as he tries to get close to Lily he finds himself falling for the young beauty. He is torn between finding the jewel or forging a future with Lily and her unborn child.

A terrifying journey through mountains, quicksand, and hired sharp shooters. God has a plan for these two. A plan to bring them close to Him and to give them a 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 show you the right path to take. Trust Him, He loves each one of you.
Profile Image for Brittany .
2,890 reviews207 followers
May 5, 2025
Freedom’s Distant Frontier was an action packed and emotionally charged addition to the Wagon Train Matches series. These stories all build upon one another, with interconnected characters and some situations that continue from one story to the next. They are definitely books that I would recommend you read in order for the best understanding.

I really liked Lily and Matt. They had both done things that they trying to bounce back from and overcome. Lily was a pregnant and unwed young woman whose beau had just been killed in the previous novel. She felt very alone and upset, as well as being unsure about how she was going to survive and care for the baby when the wagons reached their destination. Matt no longer wanted to work for the man who had sent him to retrieve a stolen ruby. Instead, Matt was beginning to fall for Lily and he desperately wanted to be worthy of her.

These two characters had such wounded hearts. I liked the way Matt’s true nature began to show through in the way he took care of Lily and was also willing to put his life in danger multiple times to save others. This story had a clear faith message, which was life changing for Matt.

This story had much more danger in it that the hazards of the trail. These pioneers were fighting to escape from some very dangerous men in what seemed to be almost hopeless circumstances.

(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...
1,294 reviews
May 13, 2025
Freedom’s Distant Frontier is the seventh book in Lacy Williams Wagon Train Matches. This story does follow closely after the previous story with the same great characters, so it is best to read this series in order. The author does give good background information, so the book is also a nice stand alone story. The is a well written story that is easy to read and enjoy. I like how descriptive the writing is, I was able to easily imagine the people, places and events in the story. This is an enjoyable Christian historical romance story that is filled with action, mystery and suspense.

Lily has lost her secret boyfriend and is expecting his child. Matt was hired to find the jewel Lily’s sibling have stolen. I found the changes that take place within these two characters to be refreshing and inspirational. I appreciate how the characters rely on faith to get through difficult situations. I especially enjoyed reading of Lily caring for a motherless calf. This is a fun story to get lost in, with the twist and turns the story takes. With danger lurking in many areas, the suspense and mystery behind the danger, I found myself having a hard time putting the book down.

This is an enjoyable story, of which I voluntarily received a complimentary copy. This is my honest review.
1,008 reviews8 followers
May 3, 2025
Who knew that the trail west would have so many dangers on the trail. Freedom's Distant Frontier (Wagon Train Matches Book 7) is one of the most exciting stories in the series by Lacy Williams. Matt and Lily story is sorrow, sweetness, guilt and God’s redemption woven all throughout it. Every time I read one of the books in the series, I think this is my favorite one which again has happened. Honestly the entire series is my favorite by Lacy Williams, who is an incredible writer able to transport you back in time.

This close proximity story with a hidden agenda is an excellent example of how important it is to share God’s love with others. If Matt had not taken the secret job he may never have been in contact with Rusty, with this changing the direction in his life. Also, I loved the nod to O. Henry’s classic story. Now there are at least two more couples that I hope to receive their story. After reading the epilogue, it seems that trusting God with the fears in life is still a major theme in the next book. I can hardly wait.
Profile Image for Tami Willard.
2,422 reviews15 followers
April 27, 2025
This series is best if read in order. It is following the lives of the people brought together as they travel west via a wagon train. The characters overlap throughout the series with a main storyline flowing from one book to the next. Each book focuses on a couple of members as they face the struggles of the trail and finding their path to a possible HEA.
She's made a mess of things. As the youngest sister she was protected from life the most. As her sisters found their match she felt abandoned and looked elsewhere for companionship. Now she's pregnant and the baby's father is dead. How does her sisters react to the news? What is she going to do as a single mother?

He joined the wagon train under false pretenses. As he spends time with the other members he begins to question who he is and who he wants to be? Will he make the right choice? When the truth comes out will it destroy his chances at having his own HEA?
140 reviews
May 10, 2025
I have enjoyed every book in this series but this one is my favorite so far. My favorite part was the evolution of Matt's character, especially after he opened up to Lilly. This story was so packed with excitement that I found that could not read it before bed. As soon as one situation was resolved, along came another one! But that's not a criticism, the story is fascinating.
One reviewer said it's not a standalone, but that's not quiet true. By this seventh book storylines are intertwined and of course spoilers can't be avoided if you start the series here. Also each book in this series has an epilogue that is actually the opening action of the next book. I'm looking, forward to learning more in the next book about the secrets the female character is carrying.
I recommend this book, and the entire series for the reality of the settings, and the unfolding of the recurring characters.
Profile Image for Margaret Nelson.
1,637 reviews
April 25, 2025
This is the seventh book in Williams’ Wagon Train Matches series. She keeps putting this poor wagon train and its people through more problems! This book seems to have more than some of the others. I was wondering for awhile if it was going to be the last one in the series, as several plot threads are finally tied up, but then she ends it with an honest-to-goodness cliffhanger! So be warned!!

We finally get to know better some of the minor characters from past books, and find out what kind of broken lives they’re dealing with. The trials they encounter help them grow and develop and choose to do the right thing. The kids involved are great and add a lot to the story. I sure hope she gets the next book written quickly so I can find out what happens to those poor dudes going over the cliff!
1,767 reviews33 followers
April 26, 2025
It's a wonder that this wagon train is able to continue on with all the trials that befall them! These people are made of stern stuff! Since I have a lot of pioneer ancestors, I am continually amazed at the fortitude of people who left everything behind and journeyed to the unknown. Lily is pregnant and her beau is dead. She doesn't know how she's going to move one. Her sisters aren't much help but somehow she's going to move forward. Matt is a hired hand who is not who he seems but changes a great deal throughout the story as he grows close to Lily and others on the wagon train. I loved seeing how God works in their lives. The trials that befall them & others makes for an "edge of your seat" story! Each story in this series has been fantastic! I love the relationships, the research, the action and the stories!
236 reviews6 followers
April 26, 2025
This is another great story of finding love on the Oregon Trail. Although Matt has his own reasons for joining the wagon train, and those not above board, he is drawn to Lily and finds himself wanting to change and be a better man. As they navigate through danger, betrayal, and loss, both learn to rely on their faith in God and His protection and direction. This series keeps you on the edge of your seat and as each couple manages to find love, they encourage one another to keep believing even when circumstances appear to be impossible. As I read these stories I am convinced that I would not have survived the Oregon Trail, but these characters have a strength born of their faith in God and each other. I can't wait for the next book.


I received a copy of this book from the author as an ARC, but this is an honest review of my thoughts.
Profile Image for Joyce Marion.
511 reviews8 followers
April 27, 2025
Lily and her sisters are headed to Oregon on a wagon train. They have had men chasing them for a ruby that they stole in NYC before they left. Matt has hired on as a rider to help herd the cows. He was sent by his boss in NY to find the ruby and take it back. Lily is pregnant and not married. Harry was killed on the trail. Matt befriends her to find out more about the ruby. As they endure the hardship of the trail, Matt discovers that he doesn't want to be the man he was before. He wants to be like the upstanding men he sees on the trail, but he doesn't feel worthy. Lily is not interested in a husband. Her oldest sister is angry and bossy and continues to tell her how she needs to grow up. Matt encourages her and sees her for the strong, courageous person that she is. When danger comes, Matt is there protecting the wagon train. Great book on finding redemption.
Profile Image for April Wilson.
402 reviews18 followers
April 30, 2025
Another exciting chapter!

This was yet another thrilling addition to the Wagon Train Series. Matt and Lily’s story is packed with danger, grief, heartache, loneliness, and fear. Matt discovers freedom in knowing God cares for him; he finds happiness in the arms of his Lily. Theirs is a hard journey but they get a HEA.

This is a great series as each book builds on the previous ones and even gives more suspenseful situations to puzzle through. I can’t wait for the next one. Each is also clean and wholesome and has an element of faith woven through the plot. I received a complimentary copy from the author and these are my voluntary and honest opinions. I was not required to leave a positive review.
Profile Image for Sharon.
30 reviews6 followers
July 31, 2025
A superb story!

Such a good story of Matt and Lily. I was so into it. I kept saying I would stop and go to sleep, but I couldn’t! I was so drawn in by the story that I kept on till I could see what happened with them.
She was so in love with Harry, but he died saving her before she could they could really have a deep love. She never got to tell him her secret.
Matt was just trying to do the job he was sent to do. Never thinking he would or could have something with Lily. He was always there for her though. When his truth is discovered, will she forgive him.
This was well written and characters were fleshed out. Their struggles and insecurities were written well. Self doubt, and whose voice to follow. I can’t wait for the next story!
Profile Image for MaryEllen.
2,919 reviews29 followers
April 24, 2025
This is my voluntary review of a copy I was given.

This is another action-packed addition to the series. There are attacks by the people chasing the Fairfax sisters in addition to the natural dangers in the wilderness to overcome.

There is some talk of Biblical concepts, but it's so subtle that if that's not your thing, it's easy to gloss over. If it is your thing, it's enough to make you smile between the moments of action.

The main couple gets their happy for now, but the epilogue ends in a cliffhanger.
Profile Image for Michelle Rhoden.
524 reviews17 followers
May 5, 2025

I love reading about wagon trains on the Oregon Trail and the dangers they encountered. This book did not disappoint and the ending left me in suspense knowing there is another book to follow. Action packed from the beginning to the end, you will find it hard to put down. I always enjoy Lacy’s books and can’t wait for the next one to be published. You will definitely want to watch for this one to be released.

I was given a complimentary copy of this book from the author. All words are my own.
33 reviews2 followers
April 26, 2025
I do love this Wagon Train series and meeting new characters but also being revisited by those in the previous books. Lily and Matt have some serious heart issues to work through but with God’s grace and redemption, they are changed and healed. Matt’s story was heart breaking at times. I loved reading his redemption story. The cliffhanger has me waiting impatiently for the next book. I did receive and advanced copy and can’t wait to read it again on release day.
Profile Image for Lucia Valenzuela.
2,026 reviews11 followers
May 2, 2025
Great story of the brave and determined pioneers that brave The Oregon Trail. The dangers just don’t let up. Another story that will keep you reading way too late. This is basically Lily’s story. Matt is a true story about redemption and seeking forgiveness. Lily and Matt’s love grows slowly but steadily. I really am enjoying this whole series which is best read in order.
I received this book from the author and this is my voluntary, honest review.
2,256 reviews12 followers
May 4, 2025
Freedom’s Distant Frontier

Lily and Matt have a wonderful story worth reading. Lily is mourning the man she thought she loved. Unfortunately for her, she seems to be a magnate for trouble. Matt is trying to get close to Lily and her family to retrieve a valuable gem he believes was stolen from the man he works for in New York. His mistake was falling for her. Every time he rescues her, he is increasingly drawn to her. What will happen when Matt’s identity is made known?
290 reviews1 follower
May 5, 2025
This book is a wonderful addition to the Wagon Train Matches series. It’s a book that highlights God’s redeeming grace, healing broken hearts and mending relationships. Matt and Lilly both grow closer even in the midst of the dangerous journey west not to mention the dangerous people seeking them. I truly enjoyed this book and look forward to the next one. I do recommend reading this series in order as there are many characters to keep up with.
Profile Image for Rhonda Cooper.
267 reviews8 followers
April 26, 2025
This story continues the struggles of a wagon train, focusing on Lily and Matt. The intestinal fortitude it took to successfully journey through so much unknown is staggering. The past is revealed and a future is more hopeful. I read this and have a deeper appreciation for the life I live today.

Profile Image for Mary Jane McLeod.
2,926 reviews6 followers
May 2, 2025
Really Great Series

I'm so enjoying this series and loved Lily and Matt's story. These two needed each other. I really enjoyed watching God work in their lives as they came to know each other. It was great to catch up with other characters from previous books and I can't wait to read more books in the series.
Profile Image for Kimberly Keagan.
Author 6 books43 followers
May 3, 2025
Lacy Williams pens another wonderful read in Freedom’s Distant Frontier! Fans of clean, faith-filled historical romance will find themselves swept away by Lily and Matt’s story and the powerful reminder that even in the harshest wilderness, love and hope can take root.

I received an ARC from the author, but all opinions here are mine.
12 reviews
May 4, 2025
Emotional and life changing

I truly love this book. Lilly and Matt story was full of emotional events. I also love the bible teachings alongside our hero and heroine story. Lacy Williams did on again a stunning work. I truly recommend this book. Can't wait for the Coop and Belle story and Rob and Alice as well.
Profile Image for Judy.
385 reviews7 followers
May 8, 2025
two families trudge out west to start a new life, Only they are carrying a treasure with them which will cause danger and near death for many. Our author skillfully writes a very breath taking and enthralling tale which includes love, bitterness, and open hate. Learn how they find their way through all that they face. A very thrilling story which would test a saint.
Profile Image for Jan Silvera.
267 reviews
May 8, 2025
So much angst and danger…

If you like angst and danger you will like this book in this series. I actually went back and read book 6 because it had been awhile since reading this series. But this was a great story to add to the series. I recommend this author and series. Awesome! Thank you Lacy!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 60 reviews

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