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Wild Hearts #1
Trail to Trouble
He’s never stopped loving her. She’s never stopped running.
Hunter Samuelson has spent a decade longing for the woman who vanished without a trace.
Hannah Rice just wants to escape the shadows of a violent past.
When a chance encounter ignites old flames, it also awakens a deadly threat. Now, survival means trusting each other, and risking everything for a second chance at love.
A relaxing escape turns deadly in Michigan’s remote wilderness…
Hannah Rice joined her friends for a hiking and camping trip in Michigan’s breathtaking Upper Peninsula; a chance to heal from a near-fatal brush with a violent ex. With rugged trails, stunning views, and a skilled guide like Hunter Samuelson, the trip promises the peace she craves.
But danger lurks in the shadows.
Their serene adventure quickly spirals into a nightmare when an unseen predator targets their group. To protect his charges, Hunter throws himself into the line of fire. His life-threatening injuries force Hannah to summon every ounce of strength to survive in the wilderness alone, and ultimately live a life on the run.
A chance encounter not only ignites old flames, but awakens the deadly threat they’d nearly died to escape years earlier. This time, will Hannah and Hunter be able to outrun the danger…or will it catch up with them?
Hunter Samuelson has spent a decade longing for the woman who vanished without a trace.
Hannah Rice just wants to escape the shadows of a violent past.
When a chance encounter ignites old flames, it also awakens a deadly threat. Now, survival means trusting each other, and risking everything for a second chance at love.
A relaxing escape turns deadly in Michigan’s remote wilderness…
Hannah Rice joined her friends for a hiking and camping trip in Michigan’s breathtaking Upper Peninsula; a chance to heal from a near-fatal brush with a violent ex. With rugged trails, stunning views, and a skilled guide like Hunter Samuelson, the trip promises the peace she craves.
But danger lurks in the shadows.
Their serene adventure quickly spirals into a nightmare when an unseen predator targets their group. To protect his charges, Hunter throws himself into the line of fire. His life-threatening injuries force Hannah to summon every ounce of strength to survive in the wilderness alone, and ultimately live a life on the run.
A chance encounter not only ignites old flames, but awakens the deadly threat they’d nearly died to escape years earlier. This time, will Hannah and Hunter be able to outrun the danger…or will it catch up with them?
- GenresRomance
280 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 12, 2025
About the author
Valerie J. Clarizio
41 books196 followersValerie Clarizio is a USA Today Bestselling author who lives in romantic Door County Wisconsin with her husband. She loves to read, write, and spend time at her cabin in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan.
She’s lived her life surrounded by men, three brothers, a husband, and a male Siamese cat who required his own instruction manual. Keeping up with all the men in her life has turned her into an outdoors enthusiast, of which her favorite activity is hiking in national parks. While out on the trails, she has plenty of time to conjure up irresistible characters and unique storylines for her next romantic suspense or sweet contemporary romance novel.
Links to the first books in each of my series:
Covert Exposure
Missing the Crown Jewels
Time WARped
The Code Enforcer
Talia & Ryan's Story
She’s lived her life surrounded by men, three brothers, a husband, and a male Siamese cat who required his own instruction manual. Keeping up with all the men in her life has turned her into an outdoors enthusiast, of which her favorite activity is hiking in national parks. While out on the trails, she has plenty of time to conjure up irresistible characters and unique storylines for her next romantic suspense or sweet contemporary romance novel.
Links to the first books in each of my series:
Covert Exposure
Missing the Crown Jewels
Time WARped
The Code Enforcer
Talia & Ryan's Story
Ratings & Reviews
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Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews
October 9, 2025
Talk about intense
Hannah and her 2 friends take a wilderness vacation to get away from her ex's trial, enter the hot guide Hunter, beautiful scenery and tranquility surrounded Hannah at times but remains on edge after a confrontation over a cup of coffee, learning to trust a man touching her is difficult but there is something special between them, when tragedy strikes atop Lover's Leap Hunter reacts, Holy cow this story has everything you want to read, intense from beginning to the end, has you rooting for the underdog, and for justice, I adore Hannah and everything she has been through and coming out on the other side better and with the man of her dreams, Val Clarizio this book was exceptional, thank you, Dana Zamora
Hannah and her 2 friends take a wilderness vacation to get away from her ex's trial, enter the hot guide Hunter, beautiful scenery and tranquility surrounded Hannah at times but remains on edge after a confrontation over a cup of coffee, learning to trust a man touching her is difficult but there is something special between them, when tragedy strikes atop Lover's Leap Hunter reacts, Holy cow this story has everything you want to read, intense from beginning to the end, has you rooting for the underdog, and for justice, I adore Hannah and everything she has been through and coming out on the other side better and with the man of her dreams, Val Clarizio this book was exceptional, thank you, Dana Zamora
Did Not Finish
May 1, 202632% - 2026
September 18, 2025
Oh wow, this one had me right from the start! Hannah and Hunter are the cutest couple, even though you can tell from the start that Hannah had a rocky past with a guy. So many sweet scenes followed by so many action packed scenes as they try to survive in the wilderness. Sebastian was super creepy and scary, Hannah’s friends were the perfect duo, and the twists and turns will have you on the seat of your pants! I totally binge read the entire second half, I could not put it down. And there’s a teaser for the next book in the series! I can’t wait!!
September 21, 2025
Hannah Rice and her two friends are on a trip of camping and hiking giving Hannah a break. She'd had am almost fatal encounter with an ex and some time away is just what she needs. Hunter Samuelson is their guide for the trip as they hike and explore rugged trails and take in some scenic views. But the serene trip soon takes a deadly turn when the group is targeted as Hannah's past catches up with her. Hunter literally throws himself into the line of fire as he saves Hannah. However, his injuries are life threatening and Hannah must continue on her own to go get help. When it's all over, Hannah spends her life on the run. But a chance meeting years later not only ignites flames long buried, it awakens the threat that nearly killed them before. Will Hunter and Hannah be able to outrun the danger this time or will it catch up to them?
This is the first book in a new series by Valerie J Clarizio and it was an astonishing read. I've always enjoyed Valerie's books and this one was no exception. It was well-written with well-developed, believable characters, and a dynamic plot. I was drawn into this captivating story and kept hooked from beginning to end. The book had action, intrigue, mystery, romance, and suspense that all combine to keep you reading. I stayed up late and finished it in one sitting because I absolutely couldn't put this book down. I loved this book and am looking forward to the continuation of the series. I highly recommend this book.
This is the first book in a new series by Valerie J Clarizio and it was an astonishing read. I've always enjoyed Valerie's books and this one was no exception. It was well-written with well-developed, believable characters, and a dynamic plot. I was drawn into this captivating story and kept hooked from beginning to end. The book had action, intrigue, mystery, romance, and suspense that all combine to keep you reading. I stayed up late and finished it in one sitting because I absolutely couldn't put this book down. I loved this book and am looking forward to the continuation of the series. I highly recommend this book.
June 2, 2026
I really enjoyed this first book in the series. It had a great combination of heart-pounding suspense and a satisfying romance that kept me turning the pages.
Hunter, an outdoor guide, meets Hannah when she and her friends sign up for one of his trips. Their attraction is immediate, but the romance develops at a believable pace, making the slow-burn relationship especially rewarding. When gunshots interrupt their trip, Hannah becomes convinced that her stalker ex-boyfriend has found her, forcing her to disappear and start a new life.
Years later, Hannah and Hunter cross paths again, and it’s clear that neither has forgotten the connection they shared. Their mutual love of the outdoors and lingering feelings make their reunion compelling and heartfelt. Just when it seems they might finally get their happily-ever-after, Hannah’s stalker resurfaces, putting everything they’ve built at risk.
The suspense kept me engaged, and I was rooting for Hunter and Hannah throughout the story. The ending was satisfying and wrapped up their journey well while leaving me eager to pick up the next book in the series.
Hunter, an outdoor guide, meets Hannah when she and her friends sign up for one of his trips. Their attraction is immediate, but the romance develops at a believable pace, making the slow-burn relationship especially rewarding. When gunshots interrupt their trip, Hannah becomes convinced that her stalker ex-boyfriend has found her, forcing her to disappear and start a new life.
Years later, Hannah and Hunter cross paths again, and it’s clear that neither has forgotten the connection they shared. Their mutual love of the outdoors and lingering feelings make their reunion compelling and heartfelt. Just when it seems they might finally get their happily-ever-after, Hannah’s stalker resurfaces, putting everything they’ve built at risk.
The suspense kept me engaged, and I was rooting for Hunter and Hannah throughout the story. The ending was satisfying and wrapped up their journey well while leaving me eager to pick up the next book in the series.
October 13, 2025
The Ultimate Second Chance!
This is an amazing story. Hannah and her two roommates are taking a trip together before going their separate ways after college. Hannah is outdoorsy - her roommates, not so much. Hunter is the outdoor guide, sees the roommates are classically attractive, but is most attracted to Hannah, for her skills and attitude. She also has an air of sadness about her - the reader knows her ex-boyfriend stalked and almost killed her.
A terrible event results in first Hunter saving Hannah, then Hannah returning the favor, as she is able to run for help when Hunter is too badly hurt to continue. Hannah must change identities to prevent further danger.
Ten years pass, and Hunter and Hannah are in the same space. Both have different names (Hunter was a nickname), but the chemistry is still incendiary. Can they overcome the hurdles and danger to revisit the possibilities. Truly a could-not-put-it-down story!
***** I am voluntarily leaving my honest review of this book *****
This is an amazing story. Hannah and her two roommates are taking a trip together before going their separate ways after college. Hannah is outdoorsy - her roommates, not so much. Hunter is the outdoor guide, sees the roommates are classically attractive, but is most attracted to Hannah, for her skills and attitude. She also has an air of sadness about her - the reader knows her ex-boyfriend stalked and almost killed her.
A terrible event results in first Hunter saving Hannah, then Hannah returning the favor, as she is able to run for help when Hunter is too badly hurt to continue. Hannah must change identities to prevent further danger.
Ten years pass, and Hunter and Hannah are in the same space. Both have different names (Hunter was a nickname), but the chemistry is still incendiary. Can they overcome the hurdles and danger to revisit the possibilities. Truly a could-not-put-it-down story!
***** I am voluntarily leaving my honest review of this book *****
October 19, 2025
Second-Chance, Romantic Suspense
It was supposed to be a peaceful camping trip. Instead, it became a nightmare that would shatter lives, leave blood on the ground, and haunt them for a decade. Hannah had no idea that one trip into the wilderness would end with love found, lives lost, and a deadly shadow she could never outrun.
Hunter never expected to fall for her. He never imagined that a woman who stole his heart in an instant would disappear into the night—while danger closed in and nearly claimed them all.
Ten years later, fate throws them together once more. But this isn’t just a reunion. The evil they escaped has returned, colder and deadlier than ever. Old wounds will be reopened. Trust will be tested. Survival is no longer guaranteed.
From the first page, this story pulled me in and refused to let go. The suspense is relentless, the danger palpable, the mystery gripping, and the romance hits with real emotion. A second-chance love story wrapped in a heart-pounding fight for survival.
It was supposed to be a peaceful camping trip. Instead, it became a nightmare that would shatter lives, leave blood on the ground, and haunt them for a decade. Hannah had no idea that one trip into the wilderness would end with love found, lives lost, and a deadly shadow she could never outrun.
Hunter never expected to fall for her. He never imagined that a woman who stole his heart in an instant would disappear into the night—while danger closed in and nearly claimed them all.
Ten years later, fate throws them together once more. But this isn’t just a reunion. The evil they escaped has returned, colder and deadlier than ever. Old wounds will be reopened. Trust will be tested. Survival is no longer guaranteed.
From the first page, this story pulled me in and refused to let go. The suspense is relentless, the danger palpable, the mystery gripping, and the romance hits with real emotion. A second-chance love story wrapped in a heart-pounding fight for survival.
October 1, 2025
‘the demon was dead and wouldn’t be able to hurt anyone else.’
This book grabbed my attention from page one and didn’t let go until the last word was read! Hannah and two of her friends are taking a post graduation outdoor adventure before they go their separate ways guided by the handsome Hunter, who would rather not babysit three spoiled princesses unprepared to roughing it. He’s pleasantly surprised Hannah isn’t at all like her two companions and they hit it off and everything seems perfect...if you ignore the feeling of being watched, the sounds not associated with nature and the missing sunglasses that show up out of nowhere the next day. When they’re attacked on the last day of the trip and Hannah and Hunter have to run for their lives...Ten years down the road a chance encounter brings them back together just in time for the man bent on destroying Hannah is free again. Suspenseful with a sweet HEA. Fantastic!
This book grabbed my attention from page one and didn’t let go until the last word was read! Hannah and two of her friends are taking a post graduation outdoor adventure before they go their separate ways guided by the handsome Hunter, who would rather not babysit three spoiled princesses unprepared to roughing it. He’s pleasantly surprised Hannah isn’t at all like her two companions and they hit it off and everything seems perfect...if you ignore the feeling of being watched, the sounds not associated with nature and the missing sunglasses that show up out of nowhere the next day. When they’re attacked on the last day of the trip and Hannah and Hunter have to run for their lives...Ten years down the road a chance encounter brings them back together just in time for the man bent on destroying Hannah is free again. Suspenseful with a sweet HEA. Fantastic!
April 18, 2026
Hannah Rice's hesitant about going on a trail and camping adventure with two of her friends. She has some hiking and outdoor experience, but they don't. Still, she wants to get away from her recent horrific attack of her ex.
Hunter Samuelson works for his uncle on a camping excursions business. One has to use outdoor toilets, but supples and food is brought to each campsite along the way. Hannah thinks she will enjoy the adventure, but she's not sure about her two friends. Things are going pretty well when Hunter, Hannah and Alyssa go on a hike to a waterfall, leaving Bianca behind at the campsite. Tragedy happens when Alyssa is killed by a gunshot and Hannah and Hunter are forced to jump down into the water below the waterfall. Hunter is hurt badly, so Hannah is forced to for help in a nearby town.
Hunter is rescued and taken to the hospital. He and Hannah had become close during their short time together. Hannah is afraid the attack was part of her ex's revenge so she can't testify against him. She decides to run and start a new life.
Years later, Hunter finds Hannah living under a new name. Can the awful events of the past be avenged and can they have a future after all this time?
I have been a big fan of Valerie Clarizio for several years. TRAIL TO TROUBLE is another great addition to her body of work. There is heart pounding suspense, authentic settings and romance in the perfect mix. This novel is the first in a new series. I look forward to book #2.
Hunter Samuelson works for his uncle on a camping excursions business. One has to use outdoor toilets, but supples and food is brought to each campsite along the way. Hannah thinks she will enjoy the adventure, but she's not sure about her two friends. Things are going pretty well when Hunter, Hannah and Alyssa go on a hike to a waterfall, leaving Bianca behind at the campsite. Tragedy happens when Alyssa is killed by a gunshot and Hannah and Hunter are forced to jump down into the water below the waterfall. Hunter is hurt badly, so Hannah is forced to for help in a nearby town.
Hunter is rescued and taken to the hospital. He and Hannah had become close during their short time together. Hannah is afraid the attack was part of her ex's revenge so she can't testify against him. She decides to run and start a new life.
Years later, Hunter finds Hannah living under a new name. Can the awful events of the past be avenged and can they have a future after all this time?
I have been a big fan of Valerie Clarizio for several years. TRAIL TO TROUBLE is another great addition to her body of work. There is heart pounding suspense, authentic settings and romance in the perfect mix. This novel is the first in a new series. I look forward to book #2.
October 1, 2025
The story started a bit slow, then began to amp up, when the first stages of action and drama began. Now, I’m all in. This is another hit for Ms Clarizio. A well crafted plot with appealing characters, and filled with intense drama, suspense, secrets, and romance. An excellent read that I highly recommend. I am looking forward to the next story in the series. I received a complimentary ARC, but I am voluntarily offering my personal opinion.
October 9, 2025
This first book in this new series was a nice surprise for me (I don’t typical read suspense), in which I couldn’t put the book down. A varying cast of characters drew me into the story. Then all of a sudden there is action, suspense, a few secrets and lets throw in some romance. It all worked. I didn’t expect part of the ending, which sort of surprised me. I am looking forward to the next story! I received a complimentary ARC, and this is my personal review. I also recommend this book!
October 28, 2025
Very intense story. I usually read cozy romance, so this romantic suspense book is a bit out of my comfort zone. I did enjoy the journey though.
I do not completely understand how two people that knew each other for only 4 days, and did not spend much of that time alone to talk and get to know each other could be so attracted to each other as soul mates, but it is not real life, so I went along with that.
Good plot, and believable, except what I wrote about above.
I do not completely understand how two people that knew each other for only 4 days, and did not spend much of that time alone to talk and get to know each other could be so attracted to each other as soul mates, but it is not real life, so I went along with that.
Good plot, and believable, except what I wrote about above.
October 5, 2025
A wonderful start to a new series.
This story grabs you and holds on.
Hanna has a past she's hiding and Hunter
wants to get to know her.
Filled with danger, action, attraction and murder.
Would definitely recommend reading.
I was given a copy and I voluntarily leave this review.
This story grabs you and holds on.
Hanna has a past she's hiding and Hunter
wants to get to know her.
Filled with danger, action, attraction and murder.
Would definitely recommend reading.
I was given a copy and I voluntarily leave this review.
September 7, 2025
This new series is off to a great start. It is exciting and engaging. Nice variety of characters. I am eager to read the next one. Thanks to the author for providing a copy. My review is voluntary.
October 1, 2025
This was a fabulous read. A page turner from beginning to end. A page turner and a must read.
Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews