A Return West: An Adventure in the Roaring Twenties

by Kari August

A 2025 Global Book Award Winner for Historical Romance!
Based on true events . . .
As teenagers, growing up in Wyoming, Caroline and Row clashed as much as the jagged peaks of the Tetons. Now years later, it is the Roaring Twenties, and Caroline is an unhappy New Yorker, desperate for a way to support herself so she can escape her mistake of a marriage. Meanwhile, Row is seeking to prove himself at a small-town bank, after a failed marriage of his own, and a haunting defeat as a fighter pilot in the recent Great War. He would like nothing better than to find a new wife, have some kids, and finally settle into what has become an elusive happily ever after. The last person he has in mind for that is troublesome Caroline from his past.
Yet as fate would have it, Caroline and Row are both hired by a well-off financier to work as a team, buying land in Jackson Hole. Besides struggling with stubborn landowners, unwilling to sell, and an unforgiving, rough terrain, the battle between them resumes full force. Like revolving magnets, they find themselves drawn to each other one moment and repelled the next. Complicating the situation further is only Caroline knows the secret reason they are purchasing this land.
Set during the exciting Jazz Age, A Return West, explores in vivid detail not only this thrilling decade in American history, but also the journey of those trying for another chance in this suddenly modern, new world.

309 pages, Kindle Edition

Published May 3, 2025

Reviews

[Píaras Cíonnaoíth · Rating 5 out of 5]

Second Chances Under Western Skies...

In A Return West, Kari August masterfully weaves a tale of tension, redemption, and unexpected connection against the vibrant backdrop of the Roaring Twenties. When former Wyoming rivals Caroline and Row are thrust back into each other's orbit, sparks fly—both old and new. She’s fleeing a cold New York marriage; he’s rebuilding after war and heartbreak. Their mission? Acquire land in the wilds of Jackson Hole. But the land isn’t the only thing they’re navigating. Beneath their witty barbs and terse exchanges lies a deeper pull neither expected.

What unfolds is a richly layered story that captures not only the grit and glamor of the Jazz Age, but the raw complexity of two people trying to heal, to hope—and maybe to love again. The author’s vivid prose and emotionally charged pacing offer readers a compelling blend of historical detail, romance, and character depth that lingers long after the last page. Highly recommended.

[S Tyty · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love books based on real events, and that was the main reason I purchased this one, and it turned out to be a great pick!
This historical romance has a little bit of everything: love, history, adventure, challenges, both realistic and fantastical elements, and unexpected twists.
Set in the roaring twenties, the author does a great job capturing the scene, tone, and atmosphere of the time. As the story unfolded, I became more and more interested in what would happen next. I think only truly gifted authors can make readers feel that way.
I loved this one and have recommended it to all avid readers and enthusiasts way too much!

[Almiria · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Return West by Kari August is a 1920s era historical novel that will appeal to anyone who enjoys a mix of romance and drama in the vibrant and chaotic jazz era in the United States. With aspects of enemies-to-lovers and second-chance romance, this book is great for romance fans. The protagonists Caroline and Row go from tiling each other up as youngsters to finding themselves stuck in unfulfilling adults lives when they are thrown together again. As a fan of roaring twenties vibes, I really enjoyed the historical details in this novel. I am giving this excellent historical novel five out of five stars.

[Daniel Moreno · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really liked this novel.

I really liked this novel, which is set in 1920. It takes us on a journey to the Old West, full of vibes that make you live the moment in each of the pages. In addition, it's a story of how two rivals become closer people than they seemed. I really like the evolution of the characters in each of the pages. Our protagonist is a married woman who lives in New York, but who is truly not happy. I really like how our characters end up intertwined and living one of the most beautiful and rewarding experiences in life. Truly a book worth reading from beginning to end and that will surely keep you entertained.