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American Wilderness #1
Wilderness Trail of Love
Will Stephen’s dream cost him what he values most—Jane’s love.
Set in 1797, on America's romantic frontier, this gripping journey of danger, heartache, and passion is the story of Stephen Wyllie, and his heroic and breathtaking quest for land—across a thousand perilous miles to the Kentucky wilderness—a new world for the brave. Stephen wants only one thing more than land—to keep his wife Jane and their young daughters safe. But he needs land to make a better future for his family, and the frontier lies open to settlement in the new state of Kentucky. He must make a difficult decision—choose between the comfort and safety of their New Hampshire home and his dream for their future. Can he risk exposing them to the dangers of the wilderness? Then an immediate threat makes the decision clear. A vicious half-Indian killer, Bomazeen, begins to haunt the area, stealing slaves for the Algonquians to replace those lost to smallpox. Having glimpsed her great beauty from afar, the cunning slave trader tantalizes the tribe's virulent Chief, Wanalancet, describing his next target—Jane.
Believing the merciless slave trader may soon succeed in kidnapping or murdering Jane, Stephen decides his family must leave for Kentucky with his four brothers. When the harsh demands of the frontier nearly tear apart their great love, Stephen and Jane must find a path through more than the wilderness. His courage is undaunted, her passion is deep, but the wilderness is full of terror. Two lives. One great love. Torn apart by a frightening wilderness.
Set in 1797, on America's romantic frontier, this gripping journey of danger, heartache, and passion is the story of Stephen Wyllie, and his heroic and breathtaking quest for land—across a thousand perilous miles to the Kentucky wilderness—a new world for the brave. Stephen wants only one thing more than land—to keep his wife Jane and their young daughters safe. But he needs land to make a better future for his family, and the frontier lies open to settlement in the new state of Kentucky. He must make a difficult decision—choose between the comfort and safety of their New Hampshire home and his dream for their future. Can he risk exposing them to the dangers of the wilderness? Then an immediate threat makes the decision clear. A vicious half-Indian killer, Bomazeen, begins to haunt the area, stealing slaves for the Algonquians to replace those lost to smallpox. Having glimpsed her great beauty from afar, the cunning slave trader tantalizes the tribe's virulent Chief, Wanalancet, describing his next target—Jane.
Believing the merciless slave trader may soon succeed in kidnapping or murdering Jane, Stephen decides his family must leave for Kentucky with his four brothers. When the harsh demands of the frontier nearly tear apart their great love, Stephen and Jane must find a path through more than the wilderness. His courage is undaunted, her passion is deep, but the wilderness is full of terror. Two lives. One great love. Torn apart by a frightening wilderness.
339 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 10, 2014
540 people are currently reading
1265 people want to read
About the author
Dorothy Wiley
24 books142 followersDOROTHY WILEY
Storyteller of Love and Heroes on the American Frontier and the Scottish Highlands.
Amazon bestselling novelist Dorothy Wiley is an award-winning, multi-published author of Medieval Scottish and American Historical Romance. Wiley’s novels blend vivid historical elements and thrilling action with the romance of a moving love story to create exceedingly engaging page-turners. Her exceptional historical romances, inspired by history and true events, have won numerous awards, and have more than 8,500 five-star reader reviews on Amazon.
Her first two series, the American Wilderness and Wilderness Hearts Series are set on the American frontier when Kentucky was the West. Her third series, Wilderness Dawning, continues the highly acclaimed Wyllie family saga but brings some of the family to the new edge of the West—the Province of Texas. Wiley's fourth series, Wilderness Valor, returns some family members to Kentucky where they join heroes with extraordinary courage.
Wiley’s novel LETTERS OF FIRE AND SWORD, set in Medieval Scotland, merges Scotland’s gut-wrenching history with extraordinary fiction and was the #1 NEW RELEASE IN MEDIEVAL HISTORICAL ROMANCE when it was released.
This gripping tale is a gut-wrenching historical romance with realistic depictions of the past, a courageous king and his knights, and women willing to fight for what they cherish.
Her books’ timeless messages of family and loyalty are both raw and honest. As she skillfully unravels a compelling tale, the author’s complex characters come alive and are joined by a memorable ensemble of friends and family.
Wiley’s novels have won numerous awards, notably a Western Writers of America Finalist; a Will Rogers Medallion Award Finalist; RONE Award Finalist; Laramie Award Finalist; Chatelaine Romantic Fiction Finalist; Amazon Breakthrough Novel Award Quarter-finalist; a Readers’ Favorite Gold Medal; USA Best Book Awards Finalist; and a Historical Novel Society Editor’s Choice. Her books continue to earn five-star ratings from readers and high praise from reviewers.
Wiley attended college at The University of Texas in Austin. She graduated with honors, receiving a bachelor of journalism, and grew to dearly love both Texas and a 7th-generation Texan, her husband Larry. Her husband’s courageous ancestors, early pioneers of Kentucky and Texas, provided the inspiration for American Wilderness novels and Wiley's own Scots ancestors inspired her Scottish novels. After a distinguished career in corporate marketing and public relations, Wiley is living her dream—writing novels that touch the hearts of her readers.
Each book is a stand-alone, full-length, tastefully romantic novel. All of Wiley's titles are enrolled in Kindle Unlimited and are available in print, eBooks, and saudiobooks at www.amazon.com/author/dorothywiley.
If you have read Wiley's books, she would greatly appreciate a short review on the book’s Amazon page.
AMERICAN WILDERNESS SERIES - Wyllie family brothers
Book One – WILDERNESS TRAIL OF LOVE
Book Two – NEW FRONTIER OF LOVE
Book Three – WHISPERING HILLS OF LOVE
Book Four – FRONTIER HIGHLANDER VOW OF LOVE
Book Five – FRONTIER GIFT OF LOVE
Book Six – THE BEAUTY OF LOVE
WILDERNESS HEARTS SERIES - Wyllie brothers and their grown children
Book One – LOVE’S NEW BEGINNING
Book Two – LOVE’S SUNRISE
Book Three – LOVE'S GLORY
Book Four – LOVE'S WHISPER
WILDERNESS DAWNING - The Texas Wyllie Brothers Series
Book One – RED RIVER RIFLES
Book Two – LAND OF STARS
Book Three – BUCKSKIN ANGEL
Book Four – LAND OF HEROES
MEDIEVAL SCOTLAND
– LETTERS OF FIRE AND SWORD
WILDERNESS VALOR
Book One - SHERIFF'S VALOR
CONNECT with Dorothy:
Join Wiley’s readers' list to sign up for her infrequent newsletter and you can send her a note under the Contact tab on her website dorothywiley.com.
Facebook: DorothyMayWiley
BookBub: Author Dorothy Wiley
Storyteller of Love and Heroes on the American Frontier and the Scottish Highlands.
Amazon bestselling novelist Dorothy Wiley is an award-winning, multi-published author of Medieval Scottish and American Historical Romance. Wiley’s novels blend vivid historical elements and thrilling action with the romance of a moving love story to create exceedingly engaging page-turners. Her exceptional historical romances, inspired by history and true events, have won numerous awards, and have more than 8,500 five-star reader reviews on Amazon.
Her first two series, the American Wilderness and Wilderness Hearts Series are set on the American frontier when Kentucky was the West. Her third series, Wilderness Dawning, continues the highly acclaimed Wyllie family saga but brings some of the family to the new edge of the West—the Province of Texas. Wiley's fourth series, Wilderness Valor, returns some family members to Kentucky where they join heroes with extraordinary courage.
Wiley’s novel LETTERS OF FIRE AND SWORD, set in Medieval Scotland, merges Scotland’s gut-wrenching history with extraordinary fiction and was the #1 NEW RELEASE IN MEDIEVAL HISTORICAL ROMANCE when it was released.
This gripping tale is a gut-wrenching historical romance with realistic depictions of the past, a courageous king and his knights, and women willing to fight for what they cherish.
Her books’ timeless messages of family and loyalty are both raw and honest. As she skillfully unravels a compelling tale, the author’s complex characters come alive and are joined by a memorable ensemble of friends and family.
Wiley’s novels have won numerous awards, notably a Western Writers of America Finalist; a Will Rogers Medallion Award Finalist; RONE Award Finalist; Laramie Award Finalist; Chatelaine Romantic Fiction Finalist; Amazon Breakthrough Novel Award Quarter-finalist; a Readers’ Favorite Gold Medal; USA Best Book Awards Finalist; and a Historical Novel Society Editor’s Choice. Her books continue to earn five-star ratings from readers and high praise from reviewers.
Wiley attended college at The University of Texas in Austin. She graduated with honors, receiving a bachelor of journalism, and grew to dearly love both Texas and a 7th-generation Texan, her husband Larry. Her husband’s courageous ancestors, early pioneers of Kentucky and Texas, provided the inspiration for American Wilderness novels and Wiley's own Scots ancestors inspired her Scottish novels. After a distinguished career in corporate marketing and public relations, Wiley is living her dream—writing novels that touch the hearts of her readers.
Each book is a stand-alone, full-length, tastefully romantic novel. All of Wiley's titles are enrolled in Kindle Unlimited and are available in print, eBooks, and saudiobooks at www.amazon.com/author/dorothywiley.
If you have read Wiley's books, she would greatly appreciate a short review on the book’s Amazon page.
AMERICAN WILDERNESS SERIES - Wyllie family brothers
Book One – WILDERNESS TRAIL OF LOVE
Book Two – NEW FRONTIER OF LOVE
Book Three – WHISPERING HILLS OF LOVE
Book Four – FRONTIER HIGHLANDER VOW OF LOVE
Book Five – FRONTIER GIFT OF LOVE
Book Six – THE BEAUTY OF LOVE
WILDERNESS HEARTS SERIES - Wyllie brothers and their grown children
Book One – LOVE’S NEW BEGINNING
Book Two – LOVE’S SUNRISE
Book Three – LOVE'S GLORY
Book Four – LOVE'S WHISPER
WILDERNESS DAWNING - The Texas Wyllie Brothers Series
Book One – RED RIVER RIFLES
Book Two – LAND OF STARS
Book Three – BUCKSKIN ANGEL
Book Four – LAND OF HEROES
MEDIEVAL SCOTLAND
– LETTERS OF FIRE AND SWORD
WILDERNESS VALOR
Book One - SHERIFF'S VALOR
CONNECT with Dorothy:
Join Wiley’s readers' list to sign up for her infrequent newsletter and you can send her a note under the Contact tab on her website dorothywiley.com.
Facebook: DorothyMayWiley
BookBub: Author Dorothy Wiley
Ratings & Reviews
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Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 89 reviews
October 21, 2014
Dorothy Wiley writes a compelling story portraying the perilous struggle of a family seeking a new life on the American frontier. She successfully captures the angst of the decision to risk all in the hazards of travel through a raw wilderness full of dangerous characters, terrain, and weather. Such is the pull of the untamed land in Kentucky that a man subjects the family he loves to the uncertainty and hazards of taking on this challenge. The perils of the trip are daunting, but it was the nature of these early frontiersmen to meet the obstacles head-on in order to make a better life out of the unsettled lands. Wiley takes the reader on an odyssey along the “Wilderness Trail” that dramatically illustrates the fortitude required to overcome the unknown. The men and women of those harsh times reached down deep to find the strength and love necessary to persevere. This story will please those looking for an engaging tale of a devoted husband and wife tested to the extremes in a time when nothing could be taken for granted.
September 28, 2014
This was an excellent and quick read. I enjoyed all of the characters immensely. While the love between the two protagonists is evident it is also notable that the affection and bond of the entire family unit is shown. I was impressed that the author choose to highlight how vital were bonds of family on the frontier and how settlers relied upon these connections to get through hardships. The book is very well written and I will read more of this author.
October 13, 2014
I just finished reading Wilderness Trail of Love and I can't wait to start Dorothy Wiley's next book. The book is wonderfully written and kept me on the edge of my seat. It is the perfect balance of adventure, danger, romance, and excitement. Aside from being a great read, it also had some extra special meaning to me. My family came to America in the early 1600's settling in Virginia before migrating to Kentucky and Tennessee in the mid 1700's. I felt like I was reading about my own ancestors' journey and it really humanized their plight. Before Dorothy's book, I never considered the courage it must have taken for my family to uproot their lives and risk everything for new land. It's a really amazing story and I would highly recommend it to anyone, especially if you have any family ties to the early American settlers or any general interest in American history.
April 2, 2015
Any reader interested in discovering how people, in the eighteenth century, survived the horrors of a perilous journey on the way to a better world, will find this novel has it all.
After Jane and her daughters encountered Bomazeen, who had been sent to capture them for the Indian chief, Wanalanat, they travel to find both salvation from the monster, Bomazeen and fulfillment of Stephen's desire to start anew.
The journey takes the families along a path of constant dangers. Another attack by Bomazeen brings the reader into horrific tension which increases each second.
Dorothy Wiley has an extraordinary knack of enticing the reader along the journey even when the going is frightening. How can Jane and Stephen survive the atrocities along the way? They somehow do and come out better and stronger people.
I highly recommend this novel. It was an enjoyable experience.
After Jane and her daughters encountered Bomazeen, who had been sent to capture them for the Indian chief, Wanalanat, they travel to find both salvation from the monster, Bomazeen and fulfillment of Stephen's desire to start anew.
The journey takes the families along a path of constant dangers. Another attack by Bomazeen brings the reader into horrific tension which increases each second.
Dorothy Wiley has an extraordinary knack of enticing the reader along the journey even when the going is frightening. How can Jane and Stephen survive the atrocities along the way? They somehow do and come out better and stronger people.
I highly recommend this novel. It was an enjoyable experience.
August 31, 2014
If you're a historical romance fan, this one has it all. The author's well-sculpted cast of characters, not only come alive, but you actually begin to care about them and want them to succeed in their journey west. Her evil characters are truly scary and her good characters are painted gloriously. There's never any dull moments in this book; it's a fun and visual read that went by too quickly. The colonial setting is fascinating and gives you an up-close, personal glimpse into the life and death struggles of our pioneering ancestors who relied on each other to survive and who took time to love on their journey west. Can't wait for her next book to come out!
Want to read
November 10, 2020🎁 Romancing the Wilderness: American Wilderness Series Boxed Bundle Books 1 - 3 is FREE on Amazon today (11/10/2020)! 🎁
July 1, 2020
My review was originally posted on Romancing-the-Book.com and is shown below:
Wow, what a great read and set in the historical time period that I most favor – the formation of America in Colonial times and during the Westward expansion. The story takes place in the late 1700’s and takes us from New Hampshire to Kentucky by wagon and on horseback with lots of hard travels, tears, hurt, injuries, sorrows, deaths, perseverance, life, Indians, slaves, wild animals, bad weather, fear, loss, fighting, hardships, family and friends along the way. My emotions were totally engaged. I could see and feel the hardships along the Wilderness Trail as well as the heat, the cold, the horrific weather along with the beauty of the rivers, mountains, woods and grasses. I could taste the fear – it was palpable! I could smell nature, the cooking fires and the food as well as the filth from not being able to bathe and having clean, dry clothes to change into. But there were many dangers that were encountered and fought from people, animals and nature.
The Indians played a key role in the story and you never knew who or what would pop up around the next corner or the next page! Bomazeen was evil through and through and caused my heart to clench and tears to form with his vicious actions. The Wyllie brothers were forces to be reckoned with and worked well together and were always there for each other and the other members of their family but also those they met along the trail. This was Jane and Stephen’s story but we got to know all the brothers – Sam, William, John and their adopted brother, Bear. We even meet Edward who chooses not to take his family to Kentucky and stays behind but is still in the brothers thoughts as they follow their dream. Jane and Stephen had a love for each other that many would envy. They had chemistry and love to spare but had rough patches, anger, hurt and rage like any couple would. The characters were multifaceted – even the children, who were brave beyond belief. We got to know them little by little but the author always showed us what they were made of and I know they will be able to ultimately survive in the new frontier! The others we meet up with – Catherine and Kelly – at different times throughout the story add another dimension. There was nice closure and the epilogue brought us to a great conclusion knowing that we’ll meet up with them all again in books two and three in the series, New Frontier of Love, the story of Sam and Catherine and Whispering Hills of Love, the story of William and Kelly. I for one can’t wait!
What a great debut novel for an author. I look forward to reading the next two books in the series but also other books this author pens.
Wow, what a great read and set in the historical time period that I most favor – the formation of America in Colonial times and during the Westward expansion. The story takes place in the late 1700’s and takes us from New Hampshire to Kentucky by wagon and on horseback with lots of hard travels, tears, hurt, injuries, sorrows, deaths, perseverance, life, Indians, slaves, wild animals, bad weather, fear, loss, fighting, hardships, family and friends along the way. My emotions were totally engaged. I could see and feel the hardships along the Wilderness Trail as well as the heat, the cold, the horrific weather along with the beauty of the rivers, mountains, woods and grasses. I could taste the fear – it was palpable! I could smell nature, the cooking fires and the food as well as the filth from not being able to bathe and having clean, dry clothes to change into. But there were many dangers that were encountered and fought from people, animals and nature.
The Indians played a key role in the story and you never knew who or what would pop up around the next corner or the next page! Bomazeen was evil through and through and caused my heart to clench and tears to form with his vicious actions. The Wyllie brothers were forces to be reckoned with and worked well together and were always there for each other and the other members of their family but also those they met along the trail. This was Jane and Stephen’s story but we got to know all the brothers – Sam, William, John and their adopted brother, Bear. We even meet Edward who chooses not to take his family to Kentucky and stays behind but is still in the brothers thoughts as they follow their dream. Jane and Stephen had a love for each other that many would envy. They had chemistry and love to spare but had rough patches, anger, hurt and rage like any couple would. The characters were multifaceted – even the children, who were brave beyond belief. We got to know them little by little but the author always showed us what they were made of and I know they will be able to ultimately survive in the new frontier! The others we meet up with – Catherine and Kelly – at different times throughout the story add another dimension. There was nice closure and the epilogue brought us to a great conclusion knowing that we’ll meet up with them all again in books two and three in the series, New Frontier of Love, the story of Sam and Catherine and Whispering Hills of Love, the story of William and Kelly. I for one can’t wait!
What a great debut novel for an author. I look forward to reading the next two books in the series but also other books this author pens.
February 19, 2015
Set in 1797, this romantic adventure takes the reader on a thrilling journey into the “brave new world” of the early American pioneers. Stephen Wylie has a thirst for land, and his search for his dream lifestyle means uprooting his wife and children from their home in New Hampshire, to travel into the wilderness of Kentucky. Their journey is fraught with danger and Stephen and his lovely wife, Jane, must face untold difficulties and heartbreak as they trek along the pioneer trail. However, it is their overriding passion for each other which holds the family together and which forms the basis of the story.
The book is professionally finished to a very high standard, and the light and easy style of writing compliments an engaging storyline. There is good attention to detail and the historical setting appears appropriate for time and place. I knew very little about the early American pioneers, but the author writes with authority about a period of history with which she is familiar, and this certainly helps to make the story an enjoyable and worthwhile read. The introduction of other major characters lends itself very nicely to a continuation of the story in further books, which I am sure will expand and develop the story of the Wylie family as they settle into the unfamiliar territory of a new lifestyle.
The romantic and sensual cover art depicts accurately that this story is primarily a romantic read; however, there are enough thrills and spills in the narrative to satisfy those readers who also like historical adventure. I have no hesitation in recommending Wilderness Trail of Love as an enjoyable and exciting romantic adventure.
Reviewed for the Historical Novel Society Indie Reviews
The book is professionally finished to a very high standard, and the light and easy style of writing compliments an engaging storyline. There is good attention to detail and the historical setting appears appropriate for time and place. I knew very little about the early American pioneers, but the author writes with authority about a period of history with which she is familiar, and this certainly helps to make the story an enjoyable and worthwhile read. The introduction of other major characters lends itself very nicely to a continuation of the story in further books, which I am sure will expand and develop the story of the Wylie family as they settle into the unfamiliar territory of a new lifestyle.
The romantic and sensual cover art depicts accurately that this story is primarily a romantic read; however, there are enough thrills and spills in the narrative to satisfy those readers who also like historical adventure. I have no hesitation in recommending Wilderness Trail of Love as an enjoyable and exciting romantic adventure.
Reviewed for the Historical Novel Society Indie Reviews
March 21, 2015
Family moves from New Hampshire too Kentucky, 10miles a day.
Moving and gripping story of family moving to Kentucky. Father, his 3 brothers, wife and 4 girls. The young father, Stephen, had desire to do this but had not actually started the plan or discuss ed with wife Jane. Taxes larger every year made his farm barely making it. Stories of the scenic Kentucky grass land grew his desire to leave. Jane loves her 2 story brick home and family of 4 girls. Even after a horrible Indian attack on her and the oldest girl she doesn't want to leave. She has Scottish features of red hair , tall, and green eyes. Later learning she was the target of abduction for a Pennacock tribe. The brothers pack everything they can and head West. 10 miles a day. They suffer more loss, illness, death, attacks but become a stronger group. They also rescue 2 more women to join them.
Moving and gripping story of family moving to Kentucky. Father, his 3 brothers, wife and 4 girls. The young father, Stephen, had desire to do this but had not actually started the plan or discuss ed with wife Jane. Taxes larger every year made his farm barely making it. Stories of the scenic Kentucky grass land grew his desire to leave. Jane loves her 2 story brick home and family of 4 girls. Even after a horrible Indian attack on her and the oldest girl she doesn't want to leave. She has Scottish features of red hair , tall, and green eyes. Later learning she was the target of abduction for a Pennacock tribe. The brothers pack everything they can and head West. 10 miles a day. They suffer more loss, illness, death, attacks but become a stronger group. They also rescue 2 more women to join them.
Read
February 8, 2016I actually read the first 30 pages and thought the writing pretty. I could potentially read this writer's works and probably enjoy them. This book however, has parents of 4 daughters as lead characters. I know I probably wouldn't be very interested in reading about their interactions with the children so I will have to let this one pass.
I will however, check out other books in the series.
I will however, check out other books in the series.
September 1, 2014
A must read. One of the best books I've ever read.
A must read! This is the best book I have read in a long time. Stephen and Jane's love for each other was just beautiful.
A must read! This is the best book I have read in a long time. Stephen and Jane's love for each other was just beautiful.
March 12, 2015
Excellent read
This was an exception book about our past and what our ancestors had to overcome. The author told of the horrors without being gross and wove love, naivety, and fortitude into the story. I truly enjoyed it.
This was an exception book about our past and what our ancestors had to overcome. The author told of the horrors without being gross and wove love, naivety, and fortitude into the story. I truly enjoyed it.
April 22, 2016
Read the 4th book first
These can be stand alone book but I wished I'd read the first one first. Excellent story with non explicit sex but you do get the loving in the marriages. I'm starting second one now
These can be stand alone book but I wished I'd read the first one first. Excellent story with non explicit sex but you do get the loving in the marriages. I'm starting second one now
May 12, 2016
Wilderness Trail of Love
This book was so full of intriguing and dangerous turns, my heart felt every one. Every character is endearing and make you feel like they could jump off the page. Great job!
This book was so full of intriguing and dangerous turns, my heart felt every one. Every character is endearing and make you feel like they could jump off the page. Great job!
October 28, 2024
A novel that kept pulling me back to read more. I've been on a reading jag lately. Not sure why but I need to break it. I have "stuff" to do. Anyway ------ Since I have ancestors in America before 1630, an early American historical novel had a lot of appeal. I zoomed through the 323 pages.
Set in New Hampshire in 1797. Four brothers are introduced. Sam is unmarried, a warrior who fought in the Revolutionary War. Steven, the youngest, is married to Jane and loves her with every fiber of his being. They have four daughters. John with a little boy, "Little John", you will fall in love with. Cute, smart, and loves his father and his uncles. Edward operates a store in a village and is not the adventurer his brothers are. And Bear -- a big Scotsman who is a best friend and adopted brother.
Steven, 31, wants to migrate his family to Kentucky. The brothers are 100% for it except for Edward. There is a good reason for Steven's desire to move. And he has read Daniel Boone's "Adventures" until it is dog-eared. He just has to persuade Jane.
What follows is tales of Pennacook Indians, raids, travel from New Hampshire to Kentucky through the Cumberland Gap, and more. And yes, I have an ancestor who came to Kentucky through the Gap. (You can see why this series, 'American Wilderness', appealed to me.)
I can tell a lot of research went into this tale. It is told with the grit it took to live in such times. Jane may get starry-eyed when she looks at Steven, but she proves to be tough. Especially when Bomazeen captures her to be the wife of a Pennacook Indian.
My only issue with Wilderness Trail of Love was the love scenes--repeat, scenes--between Steven and his wife. TMI! TMI! I know the author wanted the reader to "get" how much this couple loved each other. I got it. These scenes just weren't needed to make the point.
This is a bold story, well told, other than the above. I finished the book the next day and immediately started book 2 in the series.
Set in New Hampshire in 1797. Four brothers are introduced. Sam is unmarried, a warrior who fought in the Revolutionary War. Steven, the youngest, is married to Jane and loves her with every fiber of his being. They have four daughters. John with a little boy, "Little John", you will fall in love with. Cute, smart, and loves his father and his uncles. Edward operates a store in a village and is not the adventurer his brothers are. And Bear -- a big Scotsman who is a best friend and adopted brother.
Steven, 31, wants to migrate his family to Kentucky. The brothers are 100% for it except for Edward. There is a good reason for Steven's desire to move. And he has read Daniel Boone's "Adventures" until it is dog-eared. He just has to persuade Jane.
What follows is tales of Pennacook Indians, raids, travel from New Hampshire to Kentucky through the Cumberland Gap, and more. And yes, I have an ancestor who came to Kentucky through the Gap. (You can see why this series, 'American Wilderness', appealed to me.)
I can tell a lot of research went into this tale. It is told with the grit it took to live in such times. Jane may get starry-eyed when she looks at Steven, but she proves to be tough. Especially when Bomazeen captures her to be the wife of a Pennacook Indian.
My only issue with Wilderness Trail of Love was the love scenes--repeat, scenes--between Steven and his wife. TMI! TMI! I know the author wanted the reader to "get" how much this couple loved each other. I got it. These scenes just weren't needed to make the point.
This is a bold story, well told, other than the above. I finished the book the next day and immediately started book 2 in the series.
May 7, 2020
This book has engaging characters and an interesting plot. This one is action-packed from the beginning to the end. It is so suspenseful, it as almost too fast paced. The narrator is excellent, giving the characters their individual voices. Happy reading and listening!
May 27, 2015
All I can say is what a book. This little read set in 1797 during the Pioneer days is full of sacrifice, action, loss, the test of love and new beginnings.
Stephen Wyllie a man of dreams and fierce determination to make a better life for his family. Four daughters and a wife, his dreams of obtaining land but having to make a dangerous insurmountable journey through the wilderness to the wilds of glorious Kentucky. His convictions are so strong he can think of nothing else but how does he convince his wife this is the right thing to do. To follow a dream, to reach for something that will put all their lives on the line on a perilous journey into the unknown. A journey of untold dangers. Will she go? Will she see his dream and help him make it into a reality for their family. Will she leave the home he built for her, a supposedly safe home until one day the devil from hell shows up on her doorstep with untold horrors awaiting her and her children, all girls? Stephen is gone on a trip to gather supplies and she’s all alone. She and her daughters fight their attacker off but will he come back, is this enough to make her want to give up her home and travel with her husband to an unknown land?
Jane, a strong woman, very pretty to the eye and self assured that her and her girls are safe in their New Hampshire home. A home that her husband built, where their girls were all born, a home where they were to spend their lives in. But after a horrid attack from the devil incarnate him, she is torn. Stephen is duty and honor bound to protect her and the girls, but his way is picking up and leaving the only home her girls have ever known and embark on a journey that will test the love they share and the strength they posses. What can a woman do other than to support her husband’s dream although it’s not hers? She’s scared, terrified might be a more suitable word.
After much debate Stephen, his family, and three of his brothers and a adopted brother Bear start on the journey of their lives heading into the wilds heading west to a greater land, a land of green grass as far as the eye can see, a lush land with many opportunities to build a new life. But, first, they have to get there.
This author is awesome, the story is fantastic and I could not put this book down until the end. The characters are loving and true to the time period. Love is tested on this perilous journey as the author takes you through the wilderness with this family. The time period of the Pioneer days has always been a favorite of mine and this author did not disappoint. Her historical facts were right on the mark as you can tell this period is close to her heart. The characters are funny at times, the children you’ll fall in love with, the traveling men all brave with each having their own little nitch in live they undertake a journey of a lifetime.
The editing was good, no major issues at all, the sex scenes were all cleanly written with no raunchy going on and I liked that. You could feel the love between Jane and Stephen; it made you feel like they could reach the ends of the earth just on their love alone, but that love is tested to the terrifying limits of the author’s imagination and the story the characters wanting to be told.
Times were hard back then, survival was always the top priority and this author describes in vivid detail the perils our ancestors faced, the strong test of love that they endured every day, the dreams in their hearts to make a better life for their family.
I would highly recommend this book to any reader and I will definitely be reading more from this author. She didn’t drag the story it moves along at a good pace. The beginning was a little slow for me but the author soon takes off with the story and all its hidden dangers of being on a carved out trail back in the days of old.
Stephen Wyllie a man of dreams and fierce determination to make a better life for his family. Four daughters and a wife, his dreams of obtaining land but having to make a dangerous insurmountable journey through the wilderness to the wilds of glorious Kentucky. His convictions are so strong he can think of nothing else but how does he convince his wife this is the right thing to do. To follow a dream, to reach for something that will put all their lives on the line on a perilous journey into the unknown. A journey of untold dangers. Will she go? Will she see his dream and help him make it into a reality for their family. Will she leave the home he built for her, a supposedly safe home until one day the devil from hell shows up on her doorstep with untold horrors awaiting her and her children, all girls? Stephen is gone on a trip to gather supplies and she’s all alone. She and her daughters fight their attacker off but will he come back, is this enough to make her want to give up her home and travel with her husband to an unknown land?
Jane, a strong woman, very pretty to the eye and self assured that her and her girls are safe in their New Hampshire home. A home that her husband built, where their girls were all born, a home where they were to spend their lives in. But after a horrid attack from the devil incarnate him, she is torn. Stephen is duty and honor bound to protect her and the girls, but his way is picking up and leaving the only home her girls have ever known and embark on a journey that will test the love they share and the strength they posses. What can a woman do other than to support her husband’s dream although it’s not hers? She’s scared, terrified might be a more suitable word.
After much debate Stephen, his family, and three of his brothers and a adopted brother Bear start on the journey of their lives heading into the wilds heading west to a greater land, a land of green grass as far as the eye can see, a lush land with many opportunities to build a new life. But, first, they have to get there.
This author is awesome, the story is fantastic and I could not put this book down until the end. The characters are loving and true to the time period. Love is tested on this perilous journey as the author takes you through the wilderness with this family. The time period of the Pioneer days has always been a favorite of mine and this author did not disappoint. Her historical facts were right on the mark as you can tell this period is close to her heart. The characters are funny at times, the children you’ll fall in love with, the traveling men all brave with each having their own little nitch in live they undertake a journey of a lifetime.
The editing was good, no major issues at all, the sex scenes were all cleanly written with no raunchy going on and I liked that. You could feel the love between Jane and Stephen; it made you feel like they could reach the ends of the earth just on their love alone, but that love is tested to the terrifying limits of the author’s imagination and the story the characters wanting to be told.
Times were hard back then, survival was always the top priority and this author describes in vivid detail the perils our ancestors faced, the strong test of love that they endured every day, the dreams in their hearts to make a better life for their family.
I would highly recommend this book to any reader and I will definitely be reading more from this author. She didn’t drag the story it moves along at a good pace. The beginning was a little slow for me but the author soon takes off with the story and all its hidden dangers of being on a carved out trail back in the days of old.
Read
October 12, 2018more thoughts in full review coming soon.
July 4, 2016
Reviewed by JoAnne
Book provided by the author for review
Originally posted at Romancing the Book
Wow, what a great read and set in the historical time period that I most favor – the formation of America in Colonial times and during the Westward expansion. The story takes place in the late 1700’s and takes us from New Hampshire to Kentucky by wagon and on horseback with lots of hard travels, tears, hurt, injuries, sorrows, deaths, perseverance, life, Indians, slaves, wild animals, bad weather, fear, loss, fighting, hardships, family and friends along the way. My emotions were totally engaged. I could see and feel the hardships along the Wilderness Trail as well as the heat, the cold, the horrific weather along with the beauty of the rivers, mountains, woods and grasses. I could taste the fear – it was palpable! I could smell nature, the cooking fires and the food as well as the filth from not being able to bathe and having clean, dry clothes to change into. But there were many dangers that were encountered and fought from people, animals and nature.
The Indians played a key role in the story and you never knew who or what would pop up around the next corner or the next page! Bomazeen was evil through and through and caused my heart to clench and tears to form with his vicious actions. The Wyllie brothers were forces to be reckoned with and worked well together and were always there for each other and the other members of their family but also those they met along the trail. This was Jane and Stephen’s story but we got to know all the brothers – Sam, William, John and their adopted brother, Bear. We even meet Edward who chooses not to take his family to Kentucky and stays behind but is still in the brothers thoughts as they follow their dream. Jane and Stephen had a love for each other that many would envy. They had chemistry and love to spare but had rough patches, anger, hurt and rage like any couple would. The characters were multifaceted – even the children, who were brave beyond belief. We got to know them little by little but the author always showed us what they were made of and I know they will be able to ultimately survive in the new frontier! The others we meet up with – Catherine and Kelly – at different times throughout the story add another dimension. There was nice closure and the epilogue brought us to a great conclusion knowing that we’ll meet up with them all again in books two and three in the series, New Frontier of Love, the story of Sam and Catherine and Whispering Hills of Love, the story of William and Kelly. I for one can’t wait!
What a great debut novel for an author. I look forward to reading the next two books in the series but also other books this author pens.
Book provided by the author for review
Originally posted at Romancing the Book
Wow, what a great read and set in the historical time period that I most favor – the formation of America in Colonial times and during the Westward expansion. The story takes place in the late 1700’s and takes us from New Hampshire to Kentucky by wagon and on horseback with lots of hard travels, tears, hurt, injuries, sorrows, deaths, perseverance, life, Indians, slaves, wild animals, bad weather, fear, loss, fighting, hardships, family and friends along the way. My emotions were totally engaged. I could see and feel the hardships along the Wilderness Trail as well as the heat, the cold, the horrific weather along with the beauty of the rivers, mountains, woods and grasses. I could taste the fear – it was palpable! I could smell nature, the cooking fires and the food as well as the filth from not being able to bathe and having clean, dry clothes to change into. But there were many dangers that were encountered and fought from people, animals and nature.
The Indians played a key role in the story and you never knew who or what would pop up around the next corner or the next page! Bomazeen was evil through and through and caused my heart to clench and tears to form with his vicious actions. The Wyllie brothers were forces to be reckoned with and worked well together and were always there for each other and the other members of their family but also those they met along the trail. This was Jane and Stephen’s story but we got to know all the brothers – Sam, William, John and their adopted brother, Bear. We even meet Edward who chooses not to take his family to Kentucky and stays behind but is still in the brothers thoughts as they follow their dream. Jane and Stephen had a love for each other that many would envy. They had chemistry and love to spare but had rough patches, anger, hurt and rage like any couple would. The characters were multifaceted – even the children, who were brave beyond belief. We got to know them little by little but the author always showed us what they were made of and I know they will be able to ultimately survive in the new frontier! The others we meet up with – Catherine and Kelly – at different times throughout the story add another dimension. There was nice closure and the epilogue brought us to a great conclusion knowing that we’ll meet up with them all again in books two and three in the series, New Frontier of Love, the story of Sam and Catherine and Whispering Hills of Love, the story of William and Kelly. I for one can’t wait!
What a great debut novel for an author. I look forward to reading the next two books in the series but also other books this author pens.
October 25, 2014
Dorothy Wiley is a new author for me. “Wilderness Trail of Love” is a historical fiction story of a family that leaves their New Hampshire home in 1797 to seek new land and opportunities in Kentucky. Stephen Wyllie, his beautiful wife Jane, and their four young daughters are the courageous adventurers in this story on the trail of hope.
In New Hampshire, Jane is nearly torn away from her beloved family when a half-Indian wild man, well known as a slave trader, attacks her. He has promised the beautiful woman to the Algonquian Chief Wanalancet as a new wife. Jane wounded the evil man, but he is sure to return for revenge and to steal his prize.
Stephen convinces all but one of his brothers, plus his closest friend, to join his family’s trek westward to Kentucky. The story follows the Wyllie family through the difficulties of the trail and the many dangers that lurk around every mountain, rock, and tree.
I love the story of Stephen and Jane’s incredible love for one another and their daughters. Their devotion to family, including extended family, was strong and indelible. I liked this #1 in this American Wilderness Series by Dorothy Wiley enough to get the sequels. Seems each is the adventure of another of the Wyllie brothers. (I like books that extend to other characters!)
The trail west for our forbearers took guts and incredible courage. This summer I got a hint their trials as I visited the pioneer trails in Wyoming. Some of my own ancestors courageously made the decision to seek a new life out west. Even though “Wilderness Trail…” is historical fiction, what the Wyllie family faced is exactly what many actual pioneers experienced. The faith and hope of a new life had to be stronger than the danger, the pain, and in many cases, the sadness that often times happened. These fictional families are based on real families, and for my ancestors that made that journey, I am very grateful.
In New Hampshire, Jane is nearly torn away from her beloved family when a half-Indian wild man, well known as a slave trader, attacks her. He has promised the beautiful woman to the Algonquian Chief Wanalancet as a new wife. Jane wounded the evil man, but he is sure to return for revenge and to steal his prize.
Stephen convinces all but one of his brothers, plus his closest friend, to join his family’s trek westward to Kentucky. The story follows the Wyllie family through the difficulties of the trail and the many dangers that lurk around every mountain, rock, and tree.
I love the story of Stephen and Jane’s incredible love for one another and their daughters. Their devotion to family, including extended family, was strong and indelible. I liked this #1 in this American Wilderness Series by Dorothy Wiley enough to get the sequels. Seems each is the adventure of another of the Wyllie brothers. (I like books that extend to other characters!)
The trail west for our forbearers took guts and incredible courage. This summer I got a hint their trials as I visited the pioneer trails in Wyoming. Some of my own ancestors courageously made the decision to seek a new life out west. Even though “Wilderness Trail…” is historical fiction, what the Wyllie family faced is exactly what many actual pioneers experienced. The faith and hope of a new life had to be stronger than the danger, the pain, and in many cases, the sadness that often times happened. These fictional families are based on real families, and for my ancestors that made that journey, I am very grateful.
August 14, 2014
I was given an advance ecopy of this book for an honest review. I liked it so much that I bought the paperback version on the first day it came out!
Get ready to be totally captivated. This book has an epic feel to it that will appeal to men and women. Be prepared to laugh, cringe in fear, feel consumed with anger, cry, and finally, cheer as the characters successfully arrive in Kentucky after a harrowing and arduous thousand mile journey.
The story takes place in 1797 America shortly after the end of the Revolutionary war. In it, Stephen Wyllie with his wife, Jane, their young daughters, his four adult brothers and a young nephew risk their lives and everything they own to undertake a perilous one thousand mile trek along the "Wilderness Trail" from New Hampshire to Kentucky to obtain land to start a new life. Along the way, they cross treacherous terrain, endure dangerous weather conditions and wild animals, and survive hostile Indian attacks. Their love and courage are sorely tested as grave injuries and death nearly overwhelm the brave Wyllie family. But with faith and renewed courage, they persist until they finally arrive in Kentucky.
This book is filled with interesting historical information on life along the trail as well as actual historical figures of the times. But more importantly, it opens an inner window, allowing us a brief soul searching glimpse into what makes us all human.
Get your copy of this fabulous book and prepare yourself for an enthralling read!
Get ready to be totally captivated. This book has an epic feel to it that will appeal to men and women. Be prepared to laugh, cringe in fear, feel consumed with anger, cry, and finally, cheer as the characters successfully arrive in Kentucky after a harrowing and arduous thousand mile journey.
The story takes place in 1797 America shortly after the end of the Revolutionary war. In it, Stephen Wyllie with his wife, Jane, their young daughters, his four adult brothers and a young nephew risk their lives and everything they own to undertake a perilous one thousand mile trek along the "Wilderness Trail" from New Hampshire to Kentucky to obtain land to start a new life. Along the way, they cross treacherous terrain, endure dangerous weather conditions and wild animals, and survive hostile Indian attacks. Their love and courage are sorely tested as grave injuries and death nearly overwhelm the brave Wyllie family. But with faith and renewed courage, they persist until they finally arrive in Kentucky.
This book is filled with interesting historical information on life along the trail as well as actual historical figures of the times. But more importantly, it opens an inner window, allowing us a brief soul searching glimpse into what makes us all human.
Get your copy of this fabulous book and prepare yourself for an enthralling read!
September 21, 2014
Excellent debut novel with plenty of adventure.
The lure of the new frontier beckons and New Hampshire farmer Stephen Wyllie hears the call. The question is, will his wife Jane be willing to leave the comforts of their home in the east and risk all so her husband can follow his dream to go west? In book One of Ms. Wiley's Wilderness series, she addresses the issues facing the American pioneers of 1797 as they embark on their trek to Kentucky, a journey to a land of promise and prosperity, but one also fraught with danger. Join Stephen, his family, and brothers as they battle the odds, the elements, hostile attacks, and heart-wrenching sorrow that not only put their faith to the test, but threatens to destroy Jane and Stephen's marriage. Will their love conquer all? Since I do not want to spoil it for readers by giving away the plot, you'll have to read the book to find out. But once you pick up this well written saga, you won't want to put it down until the last page is turned.
Ms. Wiley weaves a tale of love and adventure you won't want to miss.
The lure of the new frontier beckons and New Hampshire farmer Stephen Wyllie hears the call. The question is, will his wife Jane be willing to leave the comforts of their home in the east and risk all so her husband can follow his dream to go west? In book One of Ms. Wiley's Wilderness series, she addresses the issues facing the American pioneers of 1797 as they embark on their trek to Kentucky, a journey to a land of promise and prosperity, but one also fraught with danger. Join Stephen, his family, and brothers as they battle the odds, the elements, hostile attacks, and heart-wrenching sorrow that not only put their faith to the test, but threatens to destroy Jane and Stephen's marriage. Will their love conquer all? Since I do not want to spoil it for readers by giving away the plot, you'll have to read the book to find out. But once you pick up this well written saga, you won't want to put it down until the last page is turned.
Ms. Wiley weaves a tale of love and adventure you won't want to miss.
March 15, 2015
Stephen and Jane's Adventure Romance story.
In the late 1700's Stephen has a dream to go west to Kentucky for better land and adventure. Jane loves her little home with their four beautiful daughters. She is fearful to leave the comfort of her surroundings, even after a horrible thing happens to her and her family. Danger could be anywhere, places you know or new frontiers. Do they have the courage, trust and love to survive anywhere they live?
The tension in this story is so real and on every page. The surprises, heartache and the strong emotions of fear and love are so real they have you holding your seat and grabbing for a tissue.
This is the first time I have read this author's writings and it will not be my last.
I highly recommend this book to all readers who like adventure, action and romance with lots of tension throughout.
Looking forward to reading the next book in this series. ( New Frontier Love)
In the late 1700's Stephen has a dream to go west to Kentucky for better land and adventure. Jane loves her little home with their four beautiful daughters. She is fearful to leave the comfort of her surroundings, even after a horrible thing happens to her and her family. Danger could be anywhere, places you know or new frontiers. Do they have the courage, trust and love to survive anywhere they live?
The tension in this story is so real and on every page. The surprises, heartache and the strong emotions of fear and love are so real they have you holding your seat and grabbing for a tissue.
This is the first time I have read this author's writings and it will not be my last.
I highly recommend this book to all readers who like adventure, action and romance with lots of tension throughout.
Looking forward to reading the next book in this series. ( New Frontier Love)
October 21, 2014
Absolutely not my cup of tea. I hate giving bad reviews, because I know that the author has bled over bringing their characters to life. But for me, this story just did not work. The plot felt rushed, and I wasn't invested in any of the characters. I was skimming by the time I hit 25%, and while I finished the book, I never found any satisfaction in it.
YMMV...
YMMV...
March 8, 2015
Recommended Reading !
Wilderness Trail of Love is a good read that is different from the usual Historical Romance read. It tells of a great romance, true, but takes you back in what feels like real history. Though heartache and all, I felt I was there traveling beside them.
Wilderness Trail of Love is a good read that is different from the usual Historical Romance read. It tells of a great romance, true, but takes you back in what feels like real history. Though heartache and all, I felt I was there traveling beside them.
April 1, 2015
ebook
I love stories about the start of the U.S. This journey to the Kentucky woldb
Ernest's, has all the dangers of the time. It also has the strong value of love, family and faith.
I love stories about the start of the U.S. This journey to the Kentucky woldb
Ernest's, has all the dangers of the time. It also has the strong value of love, family and faith.
October 26, 2014
One of the best books I have ever read. I can't wait to read the next one.
March 12, 2015
Is a great book to read
Want to read
April 2, 2016Read for 03.2015 Western and Medieval Romance Lovers BotM.
March 4, 2015
GRIPPING!
A memorable action adventure of passion and courage throughout this treacherous journey. I couldn't put this down.
A good lesson of perseverance.
A memorable action adventure of passion and courage throughout this treacherous journey. I couldn't put this down.
A good lesson of perseverance.
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