What do you think?
Rate this book
Hot on the Trail #1
Trail of Kisses
Someone is trying to kill Lynne Tremaine. After her father sentences two members of The Briscoe Boys gang to death, Judge Tremaine feels he has no choice but to send Lynne to Denver City along the Oregon Trail to live with her Uncle George…against her will. For Lynne, the only thing worse than being sent away to the wild west is making the journey with the handsome, arrogant, wicked man her uncle has hired to escort her. Especially when the anger she feels toward him begins to turn to something hotter.
Cade Lawson is determined to prove himself to his employer, George Tremaine, after letting him down months earlier. But what he thought would be his second chance may, in fact, be a harsh punishment for his past mistakes. Lynne is headstrong, fiery, and determined to show him she is fearless. She is also beautiful and tempting, and when Cade sees just how afraid she really is underneath her brave act, he may be in danger of losing his heart to her forever. When her would-be killer attacks, it’s all he can do to keep Lynne safe.
He swore to protect her, but who will protect him from her?
PLEASE BE ADVISED - Steam Level: Hot
Cade Lawson is determined to prove himself to his employer, George Tremaine, after letting him down months earlier. But what he thought would be his second chance may, in fact, be a harsh punishment for his past mistakes. Lynne is headstrong, fiery, and determined to show him she is fearless. She is also beautiful and tempting, and when Cade sees just how afraid she really is underneath her brave act, he may be in danger of losing his heart to her forever. When her would-be killer attacks, it’s all he can do to keep Lynne safe.
He swore to protect her, but who will protect him from her?
PLEASE BE ADVISED - Steam Level: Hot
226 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 27, 2014
317 people are currently reading
1906 people want to read
About the author
Merry Farmer
292 books1,137 followersUSA Today Bestselling author Merry Farmer lives in suburban Philadelphia with her two cats, Justine and Peter. She has been writing since she was ten years old and realized she didn't have to wait for the teacher to assign a creative writing project to write something. It was the best day of her life. Her books have reached the top of Amazon's charts, and have been named finalists for several prestigious awards, including the RONE Award for indie romance.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 174 reviews
August 18, 2015
I was given a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. Thus, my review will be as honestly as I could :-)
Worried about the safety of his family, Judge Tremaine decided to send his daughter Lynne to Denver City to live with his brother for a while. As a precaution against the Briscoe Brothers' threats, Lynne will be a part of a wagon train instead of a journey by a stagecoach. She will be guarded by Cade Lawson, a man who worked for her uncle.
I was so excited when I received the offer from the publisher. I have read a few western novels, but never about a wagon train journey. After reading the synopsis, I was intrigued. Interesting storyline with a touch of mystery/thriller. I checked others' reviews for this novel and found many rave reviews. There's a few negative reviews, but then I thought each to her own. I will decide this for myself.
A few pages into the story, I was stunned. This would be the most wallpaperish historical that I have read so far. The hero and heroin attitudes were very modernish, to say the least. And I was shocked with the writer's lacked of regard for the propriety at the time. Even if it was to create a 'romantic' scene for the hero and heroin, it was still highly improper to let a young lady from a good family to be alone on a long journey, without a proper companion. She was only escorted by the hero and a fifteen year old kid who will drive the wagon. Quite a good protection that her father provided, it seems. The phrases like ' the morals were loose during a trail journey' was uttered a few times by the hero and heroin, but I think it was not that loose as the journey would consists of many good families.
I don't like the hero's reaction to the heroin. He was hired to watched out for her, not to lust after her. And the heroin's attitude is selfish, to say the least. She didn't care about the people who worked for her (or rather her father), just her own needs. The attraction between the hero and heroin was based on looks, and it was rather lust than love. Their supposedly deep love was too sudden, as a reader I didn't feel any emotions that would make me rooted for either of them. It was like, suddenly, the hero realized that he loved the heroin and cannot live without her.
This story really focused only on the hero and heroin. Others in the wagon train were just like a prop, just there to emphasize, but did nothing to add spice to the story. The heroin was supposedly to be in good terms with two other ladies (which will be main characters in the next two books in the series) but the writer didn't highlighted their friendship here, so they were just another names of character, without any weight or interest given.
And the supposedly suspenseful mystery of the man who threatened Lynne's life. It was not properly concealed, so 'the villain' was easily spotted during the earlier stage. It was no surprised at all when the real culprit was revealed towards the end.
If the writer would pay more attention to the surrounding at the time being and injected more emotions into the characters, this might be an interesting story. It was a peeves of mine when a historical novel got modernish characters, without any respect for the time frame :-(
Worried about the safety of his family, Judge Tremaine decided to send his daughter Lynne to Denver City to live with his brother for a while. As a precaution against the Briscoe Brothers' threats, Lynne will be a part of a wagon train instead of a journey by a stagecoach. She will be guarded by Cade Lawson, a man who worked for her uncle.
I was so excited when I received the offer from the publisher. I have read a few western novels, but never about a wagon train journey. After reading the synopsis, I was intrigued. Interesting storyline with a touch of mystery/thriller. I checked others' reviews for this novel and found many rave reviews. There's a few negative reviews, but then I thought each to her own. I will decide this for myself.
A few pages into the story, I was stunned. This would be the most wallpaperish historical that I have read so far. The hero and heroin attitudes were very modernish, to say the least. And I was shocked with the writer's lacked of regard for the propriety at the time. Even if it was to create a 'romantic' scene for the hero and heroin, it was still highly improper to let a young lady from a good family to be alone on a long journey, without a proper companion. She was only escorted by the hero and a fifteen year old kid who will drive the wagon. Quite a good protection that her father provided, it seems. The phrases like ' the morals were loose during a trail journey' was uttered a few times by the hero and heroin, but I think it was not that loose as the journey would consists of many good families.
I don't like the hero's reaction to the heroin. He was hired to watched out for her, not to lust after her. And the heroin's attitude is selfish, to say the least. She didn't care about the people who worked for her (or rather her father), just her own needs. The attraction between the hero and heroin was based on looks, and it was rather lust than love. Their supposedly deep love was too sudden, as a reader I didn't feel any emotions that would make me rooted for either of them. It was like, suddenly, the hero realized that he loved the heroin and cannot live without her.
This story really focused only on the hero and heroin. Others in the wagon train were just like a prop, just there to emphasize, but did nothing to add spice to the story. The heroin was supposedly to be in good terms with two other ladies (which will be main characters in the next two books in the series) but the writer didn't highlighted their friendship here, so they were just another names of character, without any weight or interest given.
And the supposedly suspenseful mystery of the man who threatened Lynne's life. It was not properly concealed, so 'the villain' was easily spotted during the earlier stage. It was no surprised at all when the real culprit was revealed towards the end.
If the writer would pay more attention to the surrounding at the time being and injected more emotions into the characters, this might be an interesting story. It was a peeves of mine when a historical novel got modernish characters, without any respect for the time frame :-(
August 15, 2015
* Received ARC in exchange for honest review
I am not a writer, so I leave that to those that are talented with words.
In this story we have Cade Lawson and Lynne Tremaine. Cade with devilishly handsome face and Lynne the young beauty. Lynne was sent to Denver by her father, for the treats received when he sentenced the Bronco brothers. Cade has to accompany her to her uncle safe. But, he did not expect this strong-headed beauty.
How was he supposed to keep her safe when all he wanted to do now was see just how much trouble the two of them could get into together?
And that little thing why her uncle wouldn’t keep him. Well, that is just one of the things that you should read about. Lynne will soon find out that Bronco brothers are not supposed to be taken foolishly.
“I forgot the soap,” she said, not sure if she wanted him to hear her or not.
“I noticed.” His smile grew.
She waited for him to do the gentlemanly thing, but he stood still, arms still crossed.
“Could you find it and… and throw it to me, I guess?”
“Throw it to you?” Lynne blew out an impatient breath. “Yes.”
Cade loosened his arms and bent to search through the towel and hairbrush in the bundle to find the soap.
“This soap?”
She clamped her jaw tight. If he thought she was the one in danger of an imminent attack from someone with a score to settle, then he needed to watch his own back.
Until chapter 4 it was little slow, but then all bets were off! :D
Her kisses were better than Christmas and the Fourth of July rolled up in gold and ice cream.
And descriptions of hot scenes were promising at their best.
“It doesn’t matter what I look like, I’m going to get to the bottom of this.”
“Interesting choice of words.”
The sauce in her tone had him twisting to frown at her. She was watching him intently.
“What are you looking at?” he demanded.
“Your derriere,” she answered with enough wickedness in her eyes to take down a coyote and half the prairie with it.
She had kissed Cade Lawson. Did that make her brave or a fallen woman? Should she rail at him… or should she try to kiss him again?
“Honey, it’s going to be all right,” he said in as soothing a voice as he could manage.
It had the opposite effect. Lynne’s eyes flared wide in indignation.
“How dare you call me ‘honey’ like I’m some saloon girl?” she snapped. “I don’t need you to tell me things will be all right. I know they will. I’m going to make sure they are.”
All right, maybe sweet words weren’t the way to go with Lynne Tremaine when she was afraid.
He moved to stand behind her and put his hands on her waist.
“Cade,” she said, her voice flat, “now is not the time to—”
“I’m showing you how to stand,” he growled.
“Oh.”
He shook his head and took a calming breath. “What’s your target?”
She paused before answering. “I don’t know.”
Somehow, that seemed typical.
And the mystery Bronco boy... It was obvious - but the story was quite satisfactory.
Recommendations! :D
I am not a writer, so I leave that to those that are talented with words.
In this story we have Cade Lawson and Lynne Tremaine. Cade with devilishly handsome face and Lynne the young beauty. Lynne was sent to Denver by her father, for the treats received when he sentenced the Bronco brothers. Cade has to accompany her to her uncle safe. But, he did not expect this strong-headed beauty.
How was he supposed to keep her safe when all he wanted to do now was see just how much trouble the two of them could get into together?
And that little thing why her uncle wouldn’t keep him. Well, that is just one of the things that you should read about. Lynne will soon find out that Bronco brothers are not supposed to be taken foolishly.
“I forgot the soap,” she said, not sure if she wanted him to hear her or not.
“I noticed.” His smile grew.
She waited for him to do the gentlemanly thing, but he stood still, arms still crossed.
“Could you find it and… and throw it to me, I guess?”
“Throw it to you?” Lynne blew out an impatient breath. “Yes.”
Cade loosened his arms and bent to search through the towel and hairbrush in the bundle to find the soap.
“This soap?”
She clamped her jaw tight. If he thought she was the one in danger of an imminent attack from someone with a score to settle, then he needed to watch his own back.
Until chapter 4 it was little slow, but then all bets were off! :D
Her kisses were better than Christmas and the Fourth of July rolled up in gold and ice cream.
And descriptions of hot scenes were promising at their best.
“It doesn’t matter what I look like, I’m going to get to the bottom of this.”
“Interesting choice of words.”
The sauce in her tone had him twisting to frown at her. She was watching him intently.
“What are you looking at?” he demanded.
“Your derriere,” she answered with enough wickedness in her eyes to take down a coyote and half the prairie with it.
She had kissed Cade Lawson. Did that make her brave or a fallen woman? Should she rail at him… or should she try to kiss him again?
“Honey, it’s going to be all right,” he said in as soothing a voice as he could manage.
It had the opposite effect. Lynne’s eyes flared wide in indignation.
“How dare you call me ‘honey’ like I’m some saloon girl?” she snapped. “I don’t need you to tell me things will be all right. I know they will. I’m going to make sure they are.”
All right, maybe sweet words weren’t the way to go with Lynne Tremaine when she was afraid.
He moved to stand behind her and put his hands on her waist.
“Cade,” she said, her voice flat, “now is not the time to—”
“I’m showing you how to stand,” he growled.
“Oh.”
He shook his head and took a calming breath. “What’s your target?”
She paused before answering. “I don’t know.”
Somehow, that seemed typical.
And the mystery Bronco boy... It was obvious - but the story was quite satisfactory.
Recommendations! :D
July 9, 2015
I was given a copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
Trail of Kisses, as the name suggests, is a story of two young people as they travel with a wagon trail from St.Luis to Denver city. Judge Tremaine sentenced two criminals known as the Briscoe boys to death. But there are more Briscoe boys running wild threatening the lives of Tremaine's family which leaves the Judge no option but send his daughters to safety. Lynne Tremaine is to go west to Denver city to her uncle with an escort, Cade Lawson arranged by the said uncle.
About 20 pages into the book and I was already disappointed. See, the one word I’d use to address the heroine is, Bitch with a capital B. I don’t know if the author was actually working on creating one of those undesirable heroines with a bitchy attitude towards anything and everything in life or if it’s her attempt in recreating the bold and strong ladies of the west. Lynne Tremaine is nothing but a foolishly arrogant snob. Cade Lawson, our hero is an okay excuse for one. He seems to think that he gives the vibe of a confident and strong hero wherein reality the man has not one dominant bone in his body. Not that there is anything wrong with that but it’s not at all fits the description we are given at first.
With that said and set aside, I do appreciate the author’s writing style. This is my first book by this author and I've had the misfortune of reading far worse books in this genre. Ms Farmer doesn't play fool with the historic facts and I congratulate her for not bending and breaking history. The way she described the life on trail is pretty good and I have to say that she did a good job in maintaining the suspense element nearly two third of the book. By that point it was obvious (at least to me) who’s threatening Lynne’s life.
Though I was offered rest of the books in the series I think I’ll take a rain check on that. If you have no problem with bad character development and you are in the mood for a pretty little western romance with a little bit of thriller element I’d recommend you give this one a chance. Who’s to say you wouldn't end up liking it?
Trail of Kisses, as the name suggests, is a story of two young people as they travel with a wagon trail from St.Luis to Denver city. Judge Tremaine sentenced two criminals known as the Briscoe boys to death. But there are more Briscoe boys running wild threatening the lives of Tremaine's family which leaves the Judge no option but send his daughters to safety. Lynne Tremaine is to go west to Denver city to her uncle with an escort, Cade Lawson arranged by the said uncle.
About 20 pages into the book and I was already disappointed. See, the one word I’d use to address the heroine is, Bitch with a capital B. I don’t know if the author was actually working on creating one of those undesirable heroines with a bitchy attitude towards anything and everything in life or if it’s her attempt in recreating the bold and strong ladies of the west. Lynne Tremaine is nothing but a foolishly arrogant snob. Cade Lawson, our hero is an okay excuse for one. He seems to think that he gives the vibe of a confident and strong hero wherein reality the man has not one dominant bone in his body. Not that there is anything wrong with that but it’s not at all fits the description we are given at first.
With that said and set aside, I do appreciate the author’s writing style. This is my first book by this author and I've had the misfortune of reading far worse books in this genre. Ms Farmer doesn't play fool with the historic facts and I congratulate her for not bending and breaking history. The way she described the life on trail is pretty good and I have to say that she did a good job in maintaining the suspense element nearly two third of the book. By that point it was obvious (at least to me) who’s threatening Lynne’s life.
Though I was offered rest of the books in the series I think I’ll take a rain check on that. If you have no problem with bad character development and you are in the mood for a pretty little western romance with a little bit of thriller element I’d recommend you give this one a chance. Who’s to say you wouldn't end up liking it?
July 6, 2015
Books revolving around wagon trains don't do anything for me. Unfortunately this story is of the typical sort with no surprises or twists to keep the readers interest. The heroine isn't much of one. She is an annoying 22 year old who acts much, much younger. She's arrogant and naive and determined to do things her way regardless of the danger she is running from (well that he father is forcing her to run from). Lynne is a spoiled brat and very annoying. One of those heroines you just want to smack some sense into before they get themselves or someone else killed with their stupidity.
I found it bizarre that a Lynne's very protective father would allow his virgin daughter to join a wagon train with two single men as her escorts without a chaperone. Really? That's rather unlikely especially in 1863.
I knew who the villain was from the start and thought it strange that he left all kinds of clues and threats and no one gave him a second thought even when Cade caught him red-handed.
I'm sorry to say that I won't be continuing this series as I couldn't take another 250+ pages of a wagon train as seen by Ms. Farmer.
I found it bizarre that a Lynne's very protective father would allow his virgin daughter to join a wagon train with two single men as her escorts without a chaperone. Really? That's rather unlikely especially in 1863.
I knew who the villain was from the start and thought it strange that he left all kinds of clues and threats and no one gave him a second thought even when Cade caught him red-handed.
I'm sorry to say that I won't be continuing this series as I couldn't take another 250+ pages of a wagon train as seen by Ms. Farmer.
September 7, 2016
While there were aspects I enjoyed, I really became irritated with the heroine. She would make rash decisions, then regret later and blame the hero. If I'd been the hero, I would have kicked her to the curb. No way would I have kept coming back for more. The villain of this story was quite predictable fairly early on in the story.
Nonetheless, I did enjoy the plot, and the narrator, Dawnya Clarine was quite good. I would listen to her again. The wagon train aspect was well-written and took me back to the time period. The historical aspect was great. Happy reading!
Nonetheless, I did enjoy the plot, and the narrator, Dawnya Clarine was quite good. I would listen to her again. The wagon train aspect was well-written and took me back to the time period. The historical aspect was great. Happy reading!
August 9, 2015
I received this book in exchange for an honest review
It's rare, like really rare for me not to finish a book. But this book unfortunately was terrible. I read a quarter. Hated it. Told myself to power through since this is for a review but a third in, I just could not do that to myself anymore. I am a voracious reader and my threshold for rubbish writing is very high but I could not finish this for the following reasons;
1) What an annoying heroine!!!
My goodness!! I almost threw the book against the wall within the first ten pages because of her. She is TSTL (too stupid to live). A complete bitch who thinks she is independent but is not and selfish to boot. She was very rude to the H, didn't listen when she was told not to ride her horse or his since the journey was at least two months long. (Don't mess with people's horses. Everybody knows that). Oh my gosh, seriously chic we know you want to come across as an independent feisty young girl, but either her character was badly written or the author intended for the readers to hate her. Which I did. Like wow, I wanted to slap her. Then she is supposedly supposed to be brave in light of the death threats she has received, but she comes across as plain stupid and suicidal (since she does dumb crap). Case in point Like really, that's how you going to play that? I could go on and on and on, really I could, about how I really could not root for the immature tit but I will stop now.
2)Weak Hero
The H was a woos. Plain and simple. The dude let that chic run roughshod all over him. All because he was supposedly attracted to her. Plus dude, surely you have met other women with more substance than this. I could not like him for the very reason that he liked the heroine. Anyone who falls for her must be a dumb idiot.
3)What a poorly written and devised mystery.
I mean really, it's supposed to be this suspenseful story about who is threatening her, but a chapter or so into the mystery,I knew who it was. And I'm like oh hell no, do I have to read through more of this drivel mystery until the "big reveal" near the end. And I did go to read the ending and I was absolutely right about whodunnit.
4)The writing was awfully repetitive.
All the time. And information was shared in conversations for the sake of the reader to get clued up, but it made the conversations feel stilted and forced. (See what I did there, repeated).
5) Not much buildup with the chemistry.
The shift from we just met, to I like you, to let's pork was too fast! I'm all in favour of instant attractions and all, but heck, this was too much. Plus I couldn't root for their romance because h was just too unpleasant. It happened so quickly, no personal conversations shared, no intimate touches that kindle fires etc.
And if read another book which says 'her kisses tasted like wildfire and honey' I will slap somebody. I actually read that to my hubby and he was like what the hell?! Who has ever eaten wildfire? I try to skip the sexy times in books but this time round my eyes didn't lift off the page fast enough, and I am so sure I saw a certain body part being described as a "spear" Seriously. Come now!!!!
Maybe it improved three quarters in, but I couldn't stick around to find out.
So in summary the plot is:
Silly selfish girl meets dumb hero. Give them ten minutes and they are falling in love. Weak mystery runs throughout the whole book. Near the end weak mystery solved. Pepper in some obligatory porking and .......happily ever after.
It's rare, like really rare for me not to finish a book. But this book unfortunately was terrible. I read a quarter. Hated it. Told myself to power through since this is for a review but a third in, I just could not do that to myself anymore. I am a voracious reader and my threshold for rubbish writing is very high but I could not finish this for the following reasons;
1) What an annoying heroine!!!
My goodness!! I almost threw the book against the wall within the first ten pages because of her. She is TSTL (too stupid to live). A complete bitch who thinks she is independent but is not and selfish to boot. She was very rude to the H, didn't listen when she was told not to ride her horse or his since the journey was at least two months long. (Don't mess with people's horses. Everybody knows that). Oh my gosh, seriously chic we know you want to come across as an independent feisty young girl, but either her character was badly written or the author intended for the readers to hate her. Which I did. Like wow, I wanted to slap her. Then she is supposedly supposed to be brave in light of the death threats she has received, but she comes across as plain stupid and suicidal (since she does dumb crap). Case in point Like really, that's how you going to play that? I could go on and on and on, really I could, about how I really could not root for the immature tit but I will stop now.
2)Weak Hero
The H was a woos. Plain and simple. The dude let that chic run roughshod all over him. All because he was supposedly attracted to her. Plus dude, surely you have met other women with more substance than this. I could not like him for the very reason that he liked the heroine. Anyone who falls for her must be a dumb idiot.
3)What a poorly written and devised mystery.
I mean really, it's supposed to be this suspenseful story about who is threatening her, but a chapter or so into the mystery,I knew who it was. And I'm like oh hell no, do I have to read through more of this drivel mystery until the "big reveal" near the end. And I did go to read the ending and I was absolutely right about whodunnit.
4)The writing was awfully repetitive.
All the time. And information was shared in conversations for the sake of the reader to get clued up, but it made the conversations feel stilted and forced. (See what I did there, repeated).
5) Not much buildup with the chemistry.
The shift from we just met, to I like you, to let's pork was too fast! I'm all in favour of instant attractions and all, but heck, this was too much. Plus I couldn't root for their romance because h was just too unpleasant. It happened so quickly, no personal conversations shared, no intimate touches that kindle fires etc.
And if read another book which says 'her kisses tasted like wildfire and honey' I will slap somebody. I actually read that to my hubby and he was like what the hell?! Who has ever eaten wildfire? I try to skip the sexy times in books but this time round my eyes didn't lift off the page fast enough, and I am so sure I saw a certain body part being described as a "spear" Seriously. Come now!!!!
Maybe it improved three quarters in, but I couldn't stick around to find out.
So in summary the plot is:
Silly selfish girl meets dumb hero. Give them ten minutes and they are falling in love. Weak mystery runs throughout the whole book. Near the end weak mystery solved. Pepper in some obligatory porking and .......happily ever after.
August 2, 2015
I received a copy in exchange for an honest review and I must apologise for my tardy response as uni has been brutal, nevertheless I will try my best still!NOTE: i have only read the first 10% of the book so this is not a full review!!
To be honest I still haven't finished this book, I think when I have more time, I will come back and finish it so I can review it properly. From what I have read so far, which is about 10% (I DNFed a few times)I think the storyline and characters had great potential but it was just not written in a way that mesmerised me.
I think if a reader is new to the genre of Historical Romance, then they may get more enjoyment out of this; but as a reader who has read many many MANY HRs, my standards when it comes to this genre is pretty high. I yearn for character development that is subtle, complex and logical - however, several chapters in, Lynn - the female protagnoist - can still only be described as a brat and shows no signs of getting better. She is immature and temperamental to the point of rudeness, although I could see how she can be attractive due to her vivacity and beauty. The main male character - Cade, doesn't fare any better. He gave off the impression of a brash, gruff teenager and just did not stir my interest. To be fair, many novels start off with the main characters being not so pleasant and as the book progresses, you are taken along their journey of growth and that can be very appealing and engaging.
However, this is where the problem of the writing comes in. I just couldn't keep reading because the writing style did not appeal to me. Emotions changed too quickly, and I didn't really feel any chemistry between the characters. Lynn and Cade have been on the road for a few weeks but I don't really see any change.
Nonetheless, I really do want to write a proper review in the future when I have the chance to read it all, but there is just no time at the present and what little time I have, I would rather spend it reading something that I loved.
To be honest I still haven't finished this book, I think when I have more time, I will come back and finish it so I can review it properly. From what I have read so far, which is about 10% (I DNFed a few times)I think the storyline and characters had great potential but it was just not written in a way that mesmerised me.
I think if a reader is new to the genre of Historical Romance, then they may get more enjoyment out of this; but as a reader who has read many many MANY HRs, my standards when it comes to this genre is pretty high. I yearn for character development that is subtle, complex and logical - however, several chapters in, Lynn - the female protagnoist - can still only be described as a brat and shows no signs of getting better. She is immature and temperamental to the point of rudeness, although I could see how she can be attractive due to her vivacity and beauty. The main male character - Cade, doesn't fare any better. He gave off the impression of a brash, gruff teenager and just did not stir my interest. To be fair, many novels start off with the main characters being not so pleasant and as the book progresses, you are taken along their journey of growth and that can be very appealing and engaging.
However, this is where the problem of the writing comes in. I just couldn't keep reading because the writing style did not appeal to me. Emotions changed too quickly, and I didn't really feel any chemistry between the characters. Lynn and Cade have been on the road for a few weeks but I don't really see any change.
Nonetheless, I really do want to write a proper review in the future when I have the chance to read it all, but there is just no time at the present and what little time I have, I would rather spend it reading something that I loved.
July 24, 2016
I received this book as an ARC for an honest review.
Trail of Kisses is a historical romance set in the early 1800s in the US. I'm a big fan of western romances and was very excited to read this one after reading the blurb.
The story if about Lynne Tremaine, the daughter of a judge who sentenced to death a couple of gang members, who in return are threatening to murder the judge's family in revenge. Lynne's father decides to send her west, to Denver City, to live with her uncle until the whole situation is arranged.
Enter our hero, Cade Lawson, who is hired by Lynne's uncle to accompany her through the journey on the wagon trail.
I loved the writing, the pace and the setting. The description of life on a wagon trail was very well done and I loved it. However, the one thing I did not like was our heroine, Lynne Tremaine. Lynne is very immature. First of all, she refuses to be sent away to her uncle's even though it's for her own protection and has to be dragged into it like a 5 year old child who doesn't want to go to school. Then she decides to make Cade's life absolutely miserable for no good reason. She contradicts every thing he says and goes about running wildly, not caring at all about the fact that somebody is trying to kill her . She receives various death threats thoughout the novel, but won't admit to what they are and making Cade's job 10000x worse.
The best part is when they are about to make love for the first time: SHE engages the whole thing and repeatedly says " yes this I what I want" only to accuse Cade of taking advantage of her and not doing his job properly, the next morning.
I also figured out who was trying to kill Lynne at the very beginning so that part didn't keep me hooked or anything.
I gave this book 3 stars for the writing, the historical accuracy and because of the character of Cade. The heroine ruined it for me. I might try reading the next one in the series.
Recommended for fans of western romance.
Trail of Kisses is a historical romance set in the early 1800s in the US. I'm a big fan of western romances and was very excited to read this one after reading the blurb.
The story if about Lynne Tremaine, the daughter of a judge who sentenced to death a couple of gang members, who in return are threatening to murder the judge's family in revenge. Lynne's father decides to send her west, to Denver City, to live with her uncle until the whole situation is arranged.
Enter our hero, Cade Lawson, who is hired by Lynne's uncle to accompany her through the journey on the wagon trail.
I loved the writing, the pace and the setting. The description of life on a wagon trail was very well done and I loved it. However, the one thing I did not like was our heroine, Lynne Tremaine. Lynne is very immature. First of all, she refuses to be sent away to her uncle's even though it's for her own protection and has to be dragged into it like a 5 year old child who doesn't want to go to school. Then she decides to make Cade's life absolutely miserable for no good reason. She contradicts every thing he says and goes about running wildly, not caring at all about the fact that somebody is trying to kill her . She receives various death threats thoughout the novel, but won't admit to what they are and making Cade's job 10000x worse.
The best part is when they are about to make love for the first time: SHE engages the whole thing and repeatedly says " yes this I what I want" only to accuse Cade of taking advantage of her and not doing his job properly, the next morning.
I also figured out who was trying to kill Lynne at the very beginning so that part didn't keep me hooked or anything.
I gave this book 3 stars for the writing, the historical accuracy and because of the character of Cade. The heroine ruined it for me. I might try reading the next one in the series.
Recommended for fans of western romance.
June 23, 2015
I received an ARC for an honest review.
This was my first time read for this author and I thoroughly enjoyed it. My first love of books revolved around historical romances and I can say that this author's writing style drew me into the story and the characters. It's a sweet romance between a young couple thrown together by fate when Lynne's father sends her west on a wagon train to protect her. Cade is hired by her father to protect her and get her there. Cade is your usual alpha male cowboy but he shows much patience dealing with the recalcitrant Lynne. I must say that Lynne did aggravate me during the first part of the book. She came across as a spoiled young woman used to getting her way with no common sense. But as the story progressed I understood her motivations and behavior. She shows much growth in maturity as the wagon train faces not only the perils of traveling but the attempts on Lynne's life by her father's enemies. Lynne and Cade triumph through it all and I was left with a good feeling about the strong love these two developed during their long trip. I look forward to reading many more books by this author.
This was my first time read for this author and I thoroughly enjoyed it. My first love of books revolved around historical romances and I can say that this author's writing style drew me into the story and the characters. It's a sweet romance between a young couple thrown together by fate when Lynne's father sends her west on a wagon train to protect her. Cade is hired by her father to protect her and get her there. Cade is your usual alpha male cowboy but he shows much patience dealing with the recalcitrant Lynne. I must say that Lynne did aggravate me during the first part of the book. She came across as a spoiled young woman used to getting her way with no common sense. But as the story progressed I understood her motivations and behavior. She shows much growth in maturity as the wagon train faces not only the perils of traveling but the attempts on Lynne's life by her father's enemies. Lynne and Cade triumph through it all and I was left with a good feeling about the strong love these two developed during their long trip. I look forward to reading many more books by this author.
July 15, 2015
I received an ARC for an honest review.
When I first was approached, I hesitated. Not because i wasn't interested in the story, I was! Trust me i wouldn't have picked it up if I didn't find the storyline intriguing... But i have suffered from the lack of interest in books these last couple of weeks. I knowt hat all of you fellow book lovers out there can agree with me that the lack of interest is the worst kind of problem out there! So you must understand how I have suffered! So you must understand why i at first hesitated when they asked me to read this book... I didn't expect to be hooked, and i dreaded that my condition would ruin a good book.. But against all odds I got hooked. Yes, your eyes didn't deceive you.... I ACTUALLY GOT HOOKED! I'm sure all of you fellow readers that have been the victims of my condition can understand the utter joy you feel when a new book actualy gets you hooked!
Now enough about my stupid condition! Lets talk about the book! I'm sure it's obivous that i liked the book since i gave it 3 stars wich actually means that i 'liked it'. I follow the given goodreads rating-system wich makes 3 stars rather good yet not good enough to make it breathtaking. I would like to explain why i gave a good story 3 stars and not the 4 stars that i considered. When i rated this book i was this close..
... to give it four stars but some things in the story bothered me wich made me rate it with 3 stars instead. It wasn't a big thing that bothered me but it had a big role in the book and it was therefore impossible to overlook. I found it unrealistic that a book that was set in the 1800-century had a heroine like Lynne. Now don't get me wrong! I loved how strong and independent she was i loved how she was different... That part is realistic enough but the part about her knowledge of what happens behind closed doors in a married relaishionship wasn't so much. Women at that time was very sheltered and had no idea what they had in store unless they overheard their parents or got a pep-talk from the old women before their wedding nights. That and how free they were about kissing each other in public was the only things that bothered me.
But evn though it bothered the realistic part of me you can be reassured that the romantic and girly part loved the book. Some stories set in this time get a little too boring when the whole story evolves around dreamy looks and... nothing more! This book wasn't boring that's for sure! That and the capturing storyline makes this book a pleasent read that intrigues the reader yet doesn't get to serious. Does that even make sense? Anyhow you should read this if small problems as those that i have pointed out doesn't bother you, it truly is a good book.
When I first was approached, I hesitated. Not because i wasn't interested in the story, I was! Trust me i wouldn't have picked it up if I didn't find the storyline intriguing... But i have suffered from the lack of interest in books these last couple of weeks. I knowt hat all of you fellow book lovers out there can agree with me that the lack of interest is the worst kind of problem out there! So you must understand how I have suffered! So you must understand why i at first hesitated when they asked me to read this book... I didn't expect to be hooked, and i dreaded that my condition would ruin a good book.. But against all odds I got hooked. Yes, your eyes didn't deceive you.... I ACTUALLY GOT HOOKED! I'm sure all of you fellow readers that have been the victims of my condition can understand the utter joy you feel when a new book actualy gets you hooked!
Now enough about my stupid condition! Lets talk about the book! I'm sure it's obivous that i liked the book since i gave it 3 stars wich actually means that i 'liked it'. I follow the given goodreads rating-system wich makes 3 stars rather good yet not good enough to make it breathtaking. I would like to explain why i gave a good story 3 stars and not the 4 stars that i considered. When i rated this book i was this close..
... to give it four stars but some things in the story bothered me wich made me rate it with 3 stars instead. It wasn't a big thing that bothered me but it had a big role in the book and it was therefore impossible to overlook. I found it unrealistic that a book that was set in the 1800-century had a heroine like Lynne. Now don't get me wrong! I loved how strong and independent she was i loved how she was different... That part is realistic enough but the part about her knowledge of what happens behind closed doors in a married relaishionship wasn't so much. Women at that time was very sheltered and had no idea what they had in store unless they overheard their parents or got a pep-talk from the old women before their wedding nights. That and how free they were about kissing each other in public was the only things that bothered me.
But evn though it bothered the realistic part of me you can be reassured that the romantic and girly part loved the book. Some stories set in this time get a little too boring when the whole story evolves around dreamy looks and... nothing more! This book wasn't boring that's for sure! That and the capturing storyline makes this book a pleasent read that intrigues the reader yet doesn't get to serious. Does that even make sense? Anyhow you should read this if small problems as those that i have pointed out doesn't bother you, it truly is a good book.
November 17, 2015
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I found the heroine, Lynne, very confusing. There were moments of clarity in which she expressed real emotion, but mostly there were odd conversations in which she said the exact opposite of what she felt. Lynne acts very young for her age of 21. When she doesn’t want to believe something, such as her being in danger, she denies the possibility against a ludicrous mountain of evidence. It reminded me of a small child putting their fingers in their ears and singing “lalalalalala”. She fights the hero, Cade (a wimp), every step of the way when he tries to keep her safe. It’s not like he’s keeping her from anything good – they’re in the middle of nowhere. His requests are minor, but she still gives him a hard time over each one. Cade is a good guy and at least his dialogue makes sense.
The reason Lynne says the opposite of what she thinks is “If she gave one inch, showed the slightest weakness, even to herself, her fear would destroy her and the Briscoe Boys would win”. Pretending there is no problem is weakness, facing up to it is strength. This kind of thinking by the heroine makes me think I’m not the target audience for this book. I prefer my historical westerns a lot less arch and more practical. This type of heroine reminded me of the ones you find in regency romances.
Her spoiled brat nature hits a peak when she forces Cade (see, a wimp) to teach her to shoot. Unfortunately, she misses the target, but manages to stampede the wagon train’s oxen. Cade takes the fall for the hardship this has caused the other travelers, but the wagon train leader knows whom to blame and Lynne doesn’t apologize.
Eventually she gets her throat cut (although not badly) at the 72% mark in the book. Trail of kisses gets much better after that because she stops talking rubbish.
I like beta-heroes and Cade is a nice one. I liked how they continued being affectionate even after they were getting insulted by the other travelers. I was surprised that wasn’t a plot point and was relived when it wasn’t.
I found the heroine, Lynne, very confusing. There were moments of clarity in which she expressed real emotion, but mostly there were odd conversations in which she said the exact opposite of what she felt. Lynne acts very young for her age of 21. When she doesn’t want to believe something, such as her being in danger, she denies the possibility against a ludicrous mountain of evidence. It reminded me of a small child putting their fingers in their ears and singing “lalalalalala”. She fights the hero, Cade (a wimp), every step of the way when he tries to keep her safe. It’s not like he’s keeping her from anything good – they’re in the middle of nowhere. His requests are minor, but she still gives him a hard time over each one. Cade is a good guy and at least his dialogue makes sense.
The reason Lynne says the opposite of what she thinks is “If she gave one inch, showed the slightest weakness, even to herself, her fear would destroy her and the Briscoe Boys would win”. Pretending there is no problem is weakness, facing up to it is strength. This kind of thinking by the heroine makes me think I’m not the target audience for this book. I prefer my historical westerns a lot less arch and more practical. This type of heroine reminded me of the ones you find in regency romances.
Her spoiled brat nature hits a peak when she forces Cade (see, a wimp) to teach her to shoot. Unfortunately, she misses the target, but manages to stampede the wagon train’s oxen. Cade takes the fall for the hardship this has caused the other travelers, but the wagon train leader knows whom to blame and Lynne doesn’t apologize.
Eventually she gets her throat cut (although not badly) at the 72% mark in the book. Trail of kisses gets much better after that because she stops talking rubbish.
I like beta-heroes and Cade is a nice one. I liked how they continued being affectionate even after they were getting insulted by the other travelers. I was surprised that wasn’t a plot point and was relived when it wasn’t.
October 19, 2014
**I recieved this book as an ARC in exchange for a honest review**
Merry has done it again. She has made me want to be the main character and I couldn't put it down.
Lynne is sent off on the trail by her father due to threats from the Briscoe brothers. She is hard headed and doesnt feel that she needs to be sent away. She is tough and her dads brave girl. She wants nothing to do with the journey she is being sent on. She is sent to live with her Uncle George.
She protector for this ride is Cade. She finds him attractive but wants nothing to do with him and does what she can to make his job hell.
Cade just wants to show George that he can redeem himself for the mistake he made months before.
While on the trail, Lynne is threatened. However, Lynne doesnt feel that the threats are actually threats and doesnt take them seriously. Cade is trying to prove to her that they are but she is too stubborn to believe that they mean anything.
During this time, they both start to realize their feelings for eachother and start to move on those feelings. Lynne after the fact feeling nothing but regret.
The story continues but I dont want to give anything away :) This story is truly amazing and I was hooked from page one. I couldnt put it down. I did figure out who the peraon threatening her was and was happy to find that I was right. I cant wait for the next installment. This book should be a show or tv movie. And I would gladly sign up for the roll of Lynne. Merry has a wonderful ability to make the reader feel like they are right there in the story. 5/5☆
Merry has done it again. She has made me want to be the main character and I couldn't put it down.
Lynne is sent off on the trail by her father due to threats from the Briscoe brothers. She is hard headed and doesnt feel that she needs to be sent away. She is tough and her dads brave girl. She wants nothing to do with the journey she is being sent on. She is sent to live with her Uncle George.
She protector for this ride is Cade. She finds him attractive but wants nothing to do with him and does what she can to make his job hell.
Cade just wants to show George that he can redeem himself for the mistake he made months before.
While on the trail, Lynne is threatened. However, Lynne doesnt feel that the threats are actually threats and doesnt take them seriously. Cade is trying to prove to her that they are but she is too stubborn to believe that they mean anything.
During this time, they both start to realize their feelings for eachother and start to move on those feelings. Lynne after the fact feeling nothing but regret.
The story continues but I dont want to give anything away :) This story is truly amazing and I was hooked from page one. I couldnt put it down. I did figure out who the peraon threatening her was and was happy to find that I was right. I cant wait for the next installment. This book should be a show or tv movie. And I would gladly sign up for the roll of Lynne. Merry has a wonderful ability to make the reader feel like they are right there in the story. 5/5☆
September 8, 2015
After Judge Tremaine sentenced two of The Briscoe Boys gang to hang for their crimes, threats are made against his family. With his two sons off fighting for the Union Army, he decides to send oldest daughter, Lynne, on a wagon train to Denver City where his brother and sister in law live. The Judge hires fifteen year old Ben to drive the wagon and his brother George sends Cade Lawson to protect her. The journey has several encounters making them believe that someone from the Briscoe Boys gang is amongst them. Several threats and even attacks are made against Lynne. Along the way the relationship of Lynne and Cade has the heat turned up. This story has so many elements to keep the pages turning, who is the enemy trying to kill Lynne. The angst between Cade and Lynne. It has it's love/hate moments. Lynne is no wimpy-whiny woman, she has a backbone and strong will. Cade knows his priority is to keep Lynne safe but always keeps the incident that happened last winter in the back of his mind, he cannot fail again. So many fun characters and interactions in this story. The love scenes are hot but not overly explicit.
Disclosure: I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts, opinions and ratings are my own.
Disclosure: I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts, opinions and ratings are my own.
October 14, 2014
Trail of Kisses
Lynne Tremaine is being sent by wagon train by her father Judge Thomas Tremaine to her uncles home in Denver City & escorted by Cade Lawson who works for her uncle to see her safely there as there's a threat to her life by a gang of thugs known as The Briscoe Boys , with whom her father has had dealings with , sent two of them to the hangman's noose & they are out for revenge .
While on the trail , Lynne & Cade's relationship grows into something more , he also becomes her protector from an unknown assailant who threatens her life while on their travels to her new home .
This is the start of a new series for Merry Farmer & think this is a great first story to start it off with & can see that some of the characters in this will undoubtedly feature in the next instalments . This story had romance, a bit of danger & keeps you guessing to whom the mystery assailant is until the end . I myself figured it out early on & it had me saying "I Knew it" Overall a good read & would highly recommend it for anyone who loves this genre . 5⭐️
Lynne Tremaine is being sent by wagon train by her father Judge Thomas Tremaine to her uncles home in Denver City & escorted by Cade Lawson who works for her uncle to see her safely there as there's a threat to her life by a gang of thugs known as The Briscoe Boys , with whom her father has had dealings with , sent two of them to the hangman's noose & they are out for revenge .
While on the trail , Lynne & Cade's relationship grows into something more , he also becomes her protector from an unknown assailant who threatens her life while on their travels to her new home .
This is the start of a new series for Merry Farmer & think this is a great first story to start it off with & can see that some of the characters in this will undoubtedly feature in the next instalments . This story had romance, a bit of danger & keeps you guessing to whom the mystery assailant is until the end . I myself figured it out early on & it had me saying "I Knew it" Overall a good read & would highly recommend it for anyone who loves this genre . 5⭐️
October 24, 2014
I received this book as an ARC for an honest review.
A wonderful book writen by Ms Farmer and I couldn't put it down from start to finish. The heroine, Lynne and the hero, Cade, are exceptional characters. Each grew naturally from page one, nothing had a forced feel to it. The suspence of who was hunting Lynne or to the growing love between Lynne and Cade. This story has suspence, drama, romance and humor.
The horror of finding that Lynne and Cade did not leave the threat of violence behind in St. Louis but it was continuing to follow them on the trail across the prairie. Lynne tries to be strong and not fearful but as she grows she discovers that it is alright to rely on others to be strong. Ms Farmer's description of the prairie in such detail that the reade3r has only to close their eyes and see the ominous sky, feel the gritty dust on their skin or to feel the cool water.
it is always a pleasure to read one of Merry Farmer's books and I will continue to look forward to each one.
A wonderful book writen by Ms Farmer and I couldn't put it down from start to finish. The heroine, Lynne and the hero, Cade, are exceptional characters. Each grew naturally from page one, nothing had a forced feel to it. The suspence of who was hunting Lynne or to the growing love between Lynne and Cade. This story has suspence, drama, romance and humor.
The horror of finding that Lynne and Cade did not leave the threat of violence behind in St. Louis but it was continuing to follow them on the trail across the prairie. Lynne tries to be strong and not fearful but as she grows she discovers that it is alright to rely on others to be strong. Ms Farmer's description of the prairie in such detail that the reade3r has only to close their eyes and see the ominous sky, feel the gritty dust on their skin or to feel the cool water.
it is always a pleasure to read one of Merry Farmer's books and I will continue to look forward to each one.
October 27, 2014
Cade and Lynne's story.
Lynne's father was a judge and his decision to hang men of the Briscoe family, put his family in danger. He put Lynne on a wagon train heading west to Denver, Co and Oregon. Cade and Ben was hired to be her bodyguard and Ben to drive the oxen pulling the wagon.
Lynne is a brave independent woman and doesn't want to leave her father or be watched by this handsome man that watches her and sends feelings in her she would rather not have.
Accidents and strange warnings are happening on the trail west. Did someone follow her? Are they on the wagon train? Is she really in danger from the Briscoe family?
Cade is hired to protect her, but who will protect her from him?
The story is full of events and an enjoyable read.
"I received a free ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review"
Lynne's father was a judge and his decision to hang men of the Briscoe family, put his family in danger. He put Lynne on a wagon train heading west to Denver, Co and Oregon. Cade and Ben was hired to be her bodyguard and Ben to drive the oxen pulling the wagon.
Lynne is a brave independent woman and doesn't want to leave her father or be watched by this handsome man that watches her and sends feelings in her she would rather not have.
Accidents and strange warnings are happening on the trail west. Did someone follow her? Are they on the wagon train? Is she really in danger from the Briscoe family?
Cade is hired to protect her, but who will protect her from him?
The story is full of events and an enjoyable read.
"I received a free ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review"
October 25, 2014
Cade he's not one for politeness that boy is so damn bold that it's borderline rude:
"What are you looking at?" She demanded.
Cade blinked, only slightly ashamed at being caught. "Your derriere," he answered.
Lynne she's just as bold Cade has met his match in her, "I will not," she insisted. She stroked his length to prove it. He was only wearing drawers after all. She could tell by the suppleness of the cotton. "You must want this too, otherwise why make it possible?" Cade he can be a romantic when he puts in some effort, "marry me, Lynne," he said. "Say you'll marry me, say you'll let me make an honest woman of you." A grin tickled the corner of his kiss-hungry lips and he added, "over and over and over." I loved this book I enjoyed it I loved the battle of the wits that went on between Lynne and Cade it was entertaining.
"What are you looking at?" She demanded.
Cade blinked, only slightly ashamed at being caught. "Your derriere," he answered.
Lynne she's just as bold Cade has met his match in her, "I will not," she insisted. She stroked his length to prove it. He was only wearing drawers after all. She could tell by the suppleness of the cotton. "You must want this too, otherwise why make it possible?" Cade he can be a romantic when he puts in some effort, "marry me, Lynne," he said. "Say you'll marry me, say you'll let me make an honest woman of you." A grin tickled the corner of his kiss-hungry lips and he added, "over and over and over." I loved this book I enjoyed it I loved the battle of the wits that went on between Lynne and Cade it was entertaining.
October 27, 2014
I loved this book! At first I was afraid I wasn't going to like the heroine! My first thoughts that she was going to be whiny and spoiled (yuck)! However during the book, I really felt that Lynne grew as a person and was a wonderful, strong heroine! I loved Cade!!! He's was so wonderfully protective that I couldn't help but love him! I loved how their relationship grew over the course of the book and there was no insta love! The story contained romance, action and suspense, what more can you ask for? I cannot wait for the next series installment!!!!
******I recieved this book as an ARC in exchange for a honest review******
******I recieved this book as an ARC in exchange for a honest review******
January 8, 2016
I am not off to a good year with my book reviews. The first book I read from this author fell flat but had to try another one. I could barely get through this book. I love historical romance, this one was just too far off base. Cade and Lynne both fell flat for me. Lynne bothered me through the entire book. She acted like a spoiled 10 year old and Cade was not much better. I hate giving bad reviews but needed to give one on this book.
October 25, 2014
Trail of Kisses by Merry Farmer is a great read. It is the story of Lynne Tremaine who is sent west to stay with her aunt and uncle. Her life has been threatened by the Briscoe Boys because her father is the judge who sentenced two of the brothers. Ms. Farmer leads the reader across the prairie by weaving together a story of an exciting trip of fear, romance, hardships, and love.
March 16, 2016
I just finished Trail of Kisses and I was pleasantly surprised with how refreshing this story of love on the trail was. I enjoy historical romances as much as the next person, and I love when they're based in the U.S. of A. Merry Farmer certainly delivers with a story full of sweet romance, serious chemistry and a dash of suspense.
Lynne Tremaine is forced to move to Denver City when her father, acting as judge, orders two members of the murdering Briscoe gang to hang. Threats are made and Lynne has to leave everything she knows and loves to head west and face a new journey alone. I liked that Lynne was sure of herself and her independence. She is not a common heroine, and she definitely stood out for me. There were times I thought her stubborn actions would have some serious consequences, but in the end she always came out on top. MF never made Lynne a weak willed or dumb woman who needed rescuing. I like that. A lot! She was sassy, bossy, and trying so hard to be fearless in the face of some serious danger. I wish we could have seen her more vulnerable side because sometimes I confess I did want to shake her into admitting the danger but lucky Cade was there to finally drive the fact home that being scared is not a flaw, its human nature.
On this trip, Lynne's father hires our hero Cade Lawson as her bodyguard to make sure the threats against Lynne don't become more than just vengeful words. Cade is by far my favorite character. He is a smart, caring man out to prove to himself and his employer that he can be counted on when needed. I liked his easy going attitude. He was fun and entertaining when Lynne was going off the deep end. His teasing smile and good humor won me over from the beginning but I fell for him 100% when he wasn’t scared to admit his feelings for Lynne. He admired her strengths and respected her flaws. I loved that he was the first to voice his love for her and his determination in proving to Lynne that he was man enough for her was so swoon worthy. His view of Lynne was so heartwarming and genuine! You don’t see that very often but Cade totally worked that angle and it was perfect. Lynne, when she finally saw things clearly was great too, but Cade stole the show, which is what made me love this book all the more. Usually the heroine is the person I’m rooting for, its romance, and I always want the heroine to get her man and live her HEA, and it’s usually the male lead that has to grow on me. Trail of Kisses changed that whole trend for me. Lynne actually took some getting used to, and Cade was the one I was hooked on reading about.
The mystery of who the threat is that follows Lynne is well paced and added some suspense to the story. I was able to guess who the villain was fairly early on, but I still enjoyed reading as it was revealed. This is the first in Merry Farmer’s Hot on the Trail series with the next books focusing on Lynne's two friends Callie and Emma fighting dangers on and off the trail in their own love stories. If you like historical romances focused on the Oregon Trail with a sweet loving hero and a maddening sassy heroine this one is worth checking out!
Copy received for an honest review.
Lynne Tremaine is forced to move to Denver City when her father, acting as judge, orders two members of the murdering Briscoe gang to hang. Threats are made and Lynne has to leave everything she knows and loves to head west and face a new journey alone. I liked that Lynne was sure of herself and her independence. She is not a common heroine, and she definitely stood out for me. There were times I thought her stubborn actions would have some serious consequences, but in the end she always came out on top. MF never made Lynne a weak willed or dumb woman who needed rescuing. I like that. A lot! She was sassy, bossy, and trying so hard to be fearless in the face of some serious danger. I wish we could have seen her more vulnerable side because sometimes I confess I did want to shake her into admitting the danger but lucky Cade was there to finally drive the fact home that being scared is not a flaw, its human nature.
On this trip, Lynne's father hires our hero Cade Lawson as her bodyguard to make sure the threats against Lynne don't become more than just vengeful words. Cade is by far my favorite character. He is a smart, caring man out to prove to himself and his employer that he can be counted on when needed. I liked his easy going attitude. He was fun and entertaining when Lynne was going off the deep end. His teasing smile and good humor won me over from the beginning but I fell for him 100% when he wasn’t scared to admit his feelings for Lynne. He admired her strengths and respected her flaws. I loved that he was the first to voice his love for her and his determination in proving to Lynne that he was man enough for her was so swoon worthy. His view of Lynne was so heartwarming and genuine! You don’t see that very often but Cade totally worked that angle and it was perfect. Lynne, when she finally saw things clearly was great too, but Cade stole the show, which is what made me love this book all the more. Usually the heroine is the person I’m rooting for, its romance, and I always want the heroine to get her man and live her HEA, and it’s usually the male lead that has to grow on me. Trail of Kisses changed that whole trend for me. Lynne actually took some getting used to, and Cade was the one I was hooked on reading about.
The mystery of who the threat is that follows Lynne is well paced and added some suspense to the story. I was able to guess who the villain was fairly early on, but I still enjoyed reading as it was revealed. This is the first in Merry Farmer’s Hot on the Trail series with the next books focusing on Lynne's two friends Callie and Emma fighting dangers on and off the trail in their own love stories. If you like historical romances focused on the Oregon Trail with a sweet loving hero and a maddening sassy heroine this one is worth checking out!
Copy received for an honest review.
August 1, 2015
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
'Trail of Kisses' is a love story between two young people as they travel along the Oregon trail to Denver City.
Lynne Tremaine is being sent to live with her uncle by her father after he receives threats against his family for sentencing a pair of criminals to death; Cade Lawson is the man hired by her uncle to escort and protect her throughout the journey.
This is the first book I've read by Merry Farmer and although her writing isn't exactly my style, I thought it was very light and easy to read.
The attraction between the characters is noticeble from the beginning and I think the author did a good job at transforming that attraction into something deeper and meaningful.
However, there were a few things I didn't like about the book. First of all, the whole mystery part was lost to me as I figured out who the villain was very early in the story and actually found it quite unbelieveable that neither Cade nor Lynne ever suspected him. More to the point, why was he constantly leaving threats and clues behind? If you want someone dead why would you put them on their guard? Why wait? The vengeance was against her father, so there was really no point in playing around with her and threatening her if he just wanted her dead. It just didn't make a lot of sense to me.
Moving on to another point, I honestly don't know that much about the time period -so I might be wrong about this- but I thought it highly unlikely that a young woman would be left to travel alone with a fifteen-year old boy and a grown man without some sort of chaperone and, moreover, that she would be so careless about protecting her reputation.
Leaving that aside, I did like the sex scenes. They were light and romantic, and not too explicit. Well written imho.
And lastly, this could have been a 4 star rating for me had it not been for the heroine, Lynne, who I found extremely annoying. She is described as being a brave young woman, but to me she frequently came out as stupid and foolish, and very immature for her age. Being brave is taking action in spite of your fears, not denying them completely and pretending they're not there. She is also very stubborn, and not in a good way. Her stubborness also came out as sheer stupidity.
Cade, on the other hand, was a very likeable and sexy character. He deserved a better heroine.
Overall, although 'Trail of Kisses' wasn't exactly my cup of tea, I do believe many people would find it very enjoyable. So if you like historical-western romances you should definitely pick this one up and give it a try!
'Trail of Kisses' is a love story between two young people as they travel along the Oregon trail to Denver City.
Lynne Tremaine is being sent to live with her uncle by her father after he receives threats against his family for sentencing a pair of criminals to death; Cade Lawson is the man hired by her uncle to escort and protect her throughout the journey.
This is the first book I've read by Merry Farmer and although her writing isn't exactly my style, I thought it was very light and easy to read.
The attraction between the characters is noticeble from the beginning and I think the author did a good job at transforming that attraction into something deeper and meaningful.
However, there were a few things I didn't like about the book. First of all, the whole mystery part was lost to me as I figured out who the villain was very early in the story and actually found it quite unbelieveable that neither Cade nor Lynne ever suspected him. More to the point, why was he constantly leaving threats and clues behind? If you want someone dead why would you put them on their guard? Why wait? The vengeance was against her father, so there was really no point in playing around with her and threatening her if he just wanted her dead. It just didn't make a lot of sense to me.
Moving on to another point, I honestly don't know that much about the time period -so I might be wrong about this- but I thought it highly unlikely that a young woman would be left to travel alone with a fifteen-year old boy and a grown man without some sort of chaperone and, moreover, that she would be so careless about protecting her reputation.
Leaving that aside, I did like the sex scenes. They were light and romantic, and not too explicit. Well written imho.
And lastly, this could have been a 4 star rating for me had it not been for the heroine, Lynne, who I found extremely annoying. She is described as being a brave young woman, but to me she frequently came out as stupid and foolish, and very immature for her age. Being brave is taking action in spite of your fears, not denying them completely and pretending they're not there. She is also very stubborn, and not in a good way. Her stubborness also came out as sheer stupidity.
Cade, on the other hand, was a very likeable and sexy character. He deserved a better heroine.
Overall, although 'Trail of Kisses' wasn't exactly my cup of tea, I do believe many people would find it very enjoyable. So if you like historical-western romances you should definitely pick this one up and give it a try!
March 8, 2015
I enjoyed the setting of a wagon train. The history seems well researched and the writing is solid. In particular, the scene with a tornado was excellent, with a real sense of nature's fury.
However, I had problems with some aspects of the story.
The language and morality did not seem authentic for the period. Well brought up young women in those days had little knowledge of what took place in the bedroom and they were aware of how easily reputations could become ruined.
And yet the heroine, Lynne, not only is eager to seduce her escort, but she seems skilled at doing it. Afterwards, she does not appear to worry about her reputation, and continues to kiss him out in the open.
It seems unlikely that a single man would be employed to escort a single female. Once they became lovers and made it obvious to others, it would have been likely that she would have been shunned by other women. In essence, her behaviour had reduced her to the status of a slut, but nobody seems to mind until the very end.
After they first make love, Cade wakes up in the morning knowing that he must marry her, which seems an authentic reaction. But then he does not mention the idea to her at all until towards the end, when the heroine's ruined reputation finally becomes obvious.
Combined with the modern language people use, the relaxed attitude to becoming a fallen woman did not seem authentic for the period.
I also struggled to understand Lynne. She was afraid of being afraid, and dealt with it by refusing to acknowledge the danger. Se keeps saying to herself "I'm papa's brave girl, I'm papa's brave girl" and behaves like a wilful child. She is twenty-two but acts like an eight year old. Then, in the latter part of the book, she thinks other women dislike her because her brave manner of facing danger head-on. I thought she'd been doing just the opposite - pretending danger didn't exist. I did not understand her at all, either the way she was to start with, or why she suddenly changed.
Further, I could not fully relate to the murder plot. Why was the villain leaving all those clues around that he was after her? Because he wanted her to be afraid? Why didn't he just try to kill her (and he surely would have, for he did not lack opportunity). Why would he have done all those things to announce his intention and presence, and hence put her and her protector on guard? Made no sense to me.
That said, the plot moves at a cracking pace. However, the illogical aspects kept me from fully enjoying the story.
However, I had problems with some aspects of the story.
The language and morality did not seem authentic for the period. Well brought up young women in those days had little knowledge of what took place in the bedroom and they were aware of how easily reputations could become ruined.
And yet the heroine, Lynne, not only is eager to seduce her escort, but she seems skilled at doing it. Afterwards, she does not appear to worry about her reputation, and continues to kiss him out in the open.
It seems unlikely that a single man would be employed to escort a single female. Once they became lovers and made it obvious to others, it would have been likely that she would have been shunned by other women. In essence, her behaviour had reduced her to the status of a slut, but nobody seems to mind until the very end.
After they first make love, Cade wakes up in the morning knowing that he must marry her, which seems an authentic reaction. But then he does not mention the idea to her at all until towards the end, when the heroine's ruined reputation finally becomes obvious.
Combined with the modern language people use, the relaxed attitude to becoming a fallen woman did not seem authentic for the period.
I also struggled to understand Lynne. She was afraid of being afraid, and dealt with it by refusing to acknowledge the danger. Se keeps saying to herself "I'm papa's brave girl, I'm papa's brave girl" and behaves like a wilful child. She is twenty-two but acts like an eight year old. Then, in the latter part of the book, she thinks other women dislike her because her brave manner of facing danger head-on. I thought she'd been doing just the opposite - pretending danger didn't exist. I did not understand her at all, either the way she was to start with, or why she suddenly changed.
Further, I could not fully relate to the murder plot. Why was the villain leaving all those clues around that he was after her? Because he wanted her to be afraid? Why didn't he just try to kill her (and he surely would have, for he did not lack opportunity). Why would he have done all those things to announce his intention and presence, and hence put her and her protector on guard? Made no sense to me.
That said, the plot moves at a cracking pace. However, the illogical aspects kept me from fully enjoying the story.
December 27, 2014
Have you ever dreamed of venturing on the across the county in a covered wagon with a sexy, handsome, cowboy who will stop at nothing to see you safe? If that is the case, then you are in for quite the treat! For the talented Merry Farmer has answered our prayers with the first book in the Hot on the Trails series, Trail of Kisses. This story begins with Lynne Tremaine, whose father is sender her from Independence, Missouri to Denver City in order to protect her from a nefarious gang, the Briscoe Boys. To assure her father that Lynne will reach her destination unharmed, a man named Cade Lawson has been hired to see to just that. Each has their own expectations of what the journey will be like, but neither of them are prepared of the events and feelings that occur between them. Will Lynne be able to stay clearheaded and not fall for the sexy, mysterious cowboy who has sworn to protect her; and will Cade be able to will himself to stay focus on the task of his job and not succumb to the feelings that are building deep inside of him? Will the they be able to protect themselves from each other? If this has enticed your curiosity at all, then grab yourself a copy of Merry Farmer's latest novel and I could assure you, you will not be disappointed. I will take this moment to caution you, that this book has been rated at a level steamy, so for your hearts sake be sure to soak all and everything that happens.
July 30, 2015
Sometimes all you need is a sweet, slow built romance kind of book, not too much drama and certainly not too much tasteless pornographic scenes.
Trail of Kisses is your perfect raining day kind of book. It's sweet and at the same time likeable enough with an interesting heroine to make this book an enjoyable read.
It tells you the history of Lynne and Cade through their journey to Denver City along the Oregon Trail. Lynne is a strong headed, stubborn - in a good way - women. Cade is just the opposite. Protective, careful, responsible and YES hot.
Together they must endure the perils of the trail and deal with their attraction and love towards each other.
It was delightful to see the two main characters slowly and gradually falling in love. To add to the already hot romance scenes, we get a little bit of suspense as well, as Lynne and Cade try to find out who is treating them and Lynne's family.
The book has tons of humor is the right part, and just the right amount of suspense. The 'love' scenes were well described and sweet. Nothing tasteless or pornographic.
My two only complains are, the book needs better editing. You could see repetition of phrases and scenes not too far apart. Plus the secondary characters are not interesting enough to make you want to know more about them.
Overall it was a good read.
Thank you for the author for an ARC copy in exchange of an honest review.
Trail of Kisses is your perfect raining day kind of book. It's sweet and at the same time likeable enough with an interesting heroine to make this book an enjoyable read.
It tells you the history of Lynne and Cade through their journey to Denver City along the Oregon Trail. Lynne is a strong headed, stubborn - in a good way - women. Cade is just the opposite. Protective, careful, responsible and YES hot.
Together they must endure the perils of the trail and deal with their attraction and love towards each other.
It was delightful to see the two main characters slowly and gradually falling in love. To add to the already hot romance scenes, we get a little bit of suspense as well, as Lynne and Cade try to find out who is treating them and Lynne's family.
The book has tons of humor is the right part, and just the right amount of suspense. The 'love' scenes were well described and sweet. Nothing tasteless or pornographic.
My two only complains are, the book needs better editing. You could see repetition of phrases and scenes not too far apart. Plus the secondary characters are not interesting enough to make you want to know more about them.
Overall it was a good read.
Thank you for the author for an ARC copy in exchange of an honest review.
February 12, 2015
Judge Thomas Termaine has been getting death threats on his family members since he sentenced 2 of the Briscoe Boys gang members to death. The Briscoe Boys are a vicious organized gang, so he thought it would be best to send his daughter Lynne to live with his brother and his wife in Denver City. His brother George ends up sending Cade Lawson to escort her back to Denver City along the Oregon Trail. Cade is trying to make up for a mishap in the past with a shipment of silver he was protecting, so on the trail with Lynne he tries to sleep as little as possible if at all. Traveling along with Cade and Lynne is Benjamin a young boy who her father hires to drive the wagon. Along the trail someone starts leaving Lynne disturbing messages in her wagon, and in her trunks one is a picture of her father with his throat slit with blood on it. As Cade tries to keep Lynne as safe and protected as he can he starts having feelings for her and she for him but he tries to resist them focusing on her safety. How can he keep her safe and catch a person whom is like a ghost moving about the camp in and out of her wagon without her, Cade, Benjamin or anyone else seeing them. They know it’s someone from the Briscoe Boys, but who? Will Cade be able to keep the women he loves protected and from harm or will the Briscoe Boys prevail? I would highly recommend this book!
July 2, 2017
Trail of Kisses tells the story of Cade Lawson and Lynne Tremaine as they follow the first part of the Oregon Trail on the way to Denver City because Lynn's father, a judge sentenced two outlaw brothers to death. The remaining Briscoe Boys gang has sent threats to kill two of the judges family and Lynne is being attacked along the trail with threats. Cade is hired to protect her as they travel with the craziest wagon train to come across the plains and until the very end they have no clue who is after Lynne.
The romance and kisses comes when Cade and Lynne fall in love being so close on the journey with the constant pressure of being under attack from a potential killer. Plus Lynne is no shy young woman but a bold and difficult woman to keep under control when she is forced to leave her home and father behind because of the threats. With the wagon crew and her adventures, a touch of humor lightens the trail too. Trail of Kisses has romance, mystery and humor too.
The romance and kisses comes when Cade and Lynne fall in love being so close on the journey with the constant pressure of being under attack from a potential killer. Plus Lynne is no shy young woman but a bold and difficult woman to keep under control when she is forced to leave her home and father behind because of the threats. With the wagon crew and her adventures, a touch of humor lightens the trail too. Trail of Kisses has romance, mystery and humor too.
April 16, 2015
I really enjoyed this book. It had the right balance of romance, history and action for me. The two main characters were well drawn and engaging. Lynne was a little bolder than your average heroine which I appreciated. And Cade wasn't too overbearing - you felt he had some faults too but you were willing to overlook them. And even though I figured out the plot / baddie early on, it didn't stop me enjoying the tale and how everything ended up.
I also enjoy Oregon Trail history, and although I'm Australian have been through much of the country described in the book so I could picture the scenes and danger. I will definately read more from this author!
I also enjoy Oregon Trail history, and although I'm Australian have been through much of the country described in the book so I could picture the scenes and danger. I will definately read more from this author!
November 17, 2015
It was good writing all around, but I found the main female lead extremely annoying. She was too stubborn and stupid, causing trouble for herself and others, which I couldn't stand (especially since that was supposed to make her endearing). The main male lead would do some things that I felt were out of character, which I don't like in a book. Then the "mystery" part was not well done, as if the author didn't know how to leave clues or conduct an investigation. This made the conflicts in this book seem displaced and random.
October 27, 2014
Another great story by Merry Farmer. Short enought to finish in couple days but yet long enough to fall in love with Lynne Tremaine. Her father is sending her west to live with her uncle and aunt, protecting her from The Briscoe Boys after they made death threats against his family. What he didn't protect her from was Cade Lawson.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 174 reviews