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Hot on the Trail #5
Trail of Destiny
Young widow, Alice Porter, never thought she would fall in love again, and that her family’s journey along the Oregon Trail was the end of her story. Rugged militiaman, Jarvis Flint, never thought he would fall in love in the first place, even though he is determined to be a man of honor and to do his duty.But sometimes the things you never think will happen are the ones that hit you when you aren’t looking. When a routine rest along the trail turns into an opportunity to stop a land war between feuding brother and sister ranch owners, Alice finds herself draw into an adventure her grieving heart isn’t prepared for. More than an adventure, as she and Jarvis work together to resolve the siblings’ dispute, they find themselves battling a passion that neither can deny. In competition with each other and with themselves, they fight to uncover a love that is worth sacrificing for and a life after heartbreak.Only love has the power to heal hearts and mend fences…. PLEASE BE Steam Level - Hot
226 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 20, 2015
120 people are currently reading
910 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.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 58 reviews
April 22, 2015
Loved this book. Each in this series just gets better! The story of a young widow going west with her family, meets a soldier at Ft Bridger. With a lot of giggles and a lot of love, this book show healing
June 14, 2020
This is an OK Western romance novella, but I wanted Alice to snap out of her grief. I get that everyone grieves in their own time and way, but it seemed like she was using her grief as an excuse to just float thru life -- trying not to feel or experience anything. I also wanted more backstory on Jarvis.
Alice was sweet, but so very sad. She was still deeply mourning her husband who died in the war, and just couldn't seem to find any joy in life at all. Jarvis was good for her, and helped her to see that she could find happiness and love again. He did push her a bit more than he should have -- but he was afraid that she would move away before he could convince her to give him a chance.
I thought that the whole idea of Alice and Jarvis helping to settle the feud between Howard and Ginny was a bit far-fetched. Neither one of them had any experience in negotiation, and didn't know the whole story of the feud. It made for a fun story, especially since it helped Alice with her grief, but it wasn't very believable.
My rating system is below.
1 star -- Hated it, or did not finish. I usually only give this rating if some of the content is truly objectionable to me, like if one of the main characters does something really awful, and gets away with it.
2 stars -- Didn't like it. This rating usually means that I thought the writing wasn't very good, the editing was terrible, I didn't like the characters, or it had other major flaws.
3 stars -- I liked it, but had some minor issues with it. This rating means that there were minor editing issues, the story needed more character development, it was just too unrealistic, or had some other fairly minor issue. The majority of books I read get this rating – I do not consider it a bad rating.
4 stars -- I liked it a lot. This is a high rating for me, and I rarely give a higher one.
5 stars -- I loved it, and will probably read it again. Very few books are good enough to get this rating from me. The ones that do are usually classics.
Alice was sweet, but so very sad. She was still deeply mourning her husband who died in the war, and just couldn't seem to find any joy in life at all. Jarvis was good for her, and helped her to see that she could find happiness and love again. He did push her a bit more than he should have -- but he was afraid that she would move away before he could convince her to give him a chance.
I thought that the whole idea of Alice and Jarvis helping to settle the feud between Howard and Ginny was a bit far-fetched. Neither one of them had any experience in negotiation, and didn't know the whole story of the feud. It made for a fun story, especially since it helped Alice with her grief, but it wasn't very believable.
My rating system is below.
1 star -- Hated it, or did not finish. I usually only give this rating if some of the content is truly objectionable to me, like if one of the main characters does something really awful, and gets away with it.
2 stars -- Didn't like it. This rating usually means that I thought the writing wasn't very good, the editing was terrible, I didn't like the characters, or it had other major flaws.
3 stars -- I liked it, but had some minor issues with it. This rating means that there were minor editing issues, the story needed more character development, it was just too unrealistic, or had some other fairly minor issue. The majority of books I read get this rating – I do not consider it a bad rating.
4 stars -- I liked it a lot. This is a high rating for me, and I rarely give a higher one.
5 stars -- I loved it, and will probably read it again. Very few books are good enough to get this rating from me. The ones that do are usually classics.
October 3, 2019
Unfortunately, this is ending up a DNF (Did Not Finish), having called a halt at 19% in. The reason is a major historical blunder that completely blows away any desire to finish.
At that 19% point, Jarvis says - "I was born on the ship my family took from Virginia, down around through Panama and up to the Pacific Coast."
The problem - Assuming Jarvis is, say 18 in 1863, then he was born in 1845 - supposedly while his family was traveling through the Panama Canal. Except France didn't begin work on the Panama Canal until 1881. They stopped and the United States picked it up again in 1904. The Canal didn't open for shipping until 1915. He'd have been born 70 years prior to it being open and 36 years prior to work even beginning. Now, I suppose the ship could have docked on the east side of Panama and they crossed overland to the west side, but that's not what he said.
While I understand literary license and that not all the facts have to be perfect, this size of a mistake just throws me completely out of the story. Add to it that the story to this point just didn't grab me at all.
At that 19% point, Jarvis says - "I was born on the ship my family took from Virginia, down around through Panama and up to the Pacific Coast."
The problem - Assuming Jarvis is, say 18 in 1863, then he was born in 1845 - supposedly while his family was traveling through the Panama Canal. Except France didn't begin work on the Panama Canal until 1881. They stopped and the United States picked it up again in 1904. The Canal didn't open for shipping until 1915. He'd have been born 70 years prior to it being open and 36 years prior to work even beginning. Now, I suppose the ship could have docked on the east side of Panama and they crossed overland to the west side, but that's not what he said.
While I understand literary license and that not all the facts have to be perfect, this size of a mistake just throws me completely out of the story. Add to it that the story to this point just didn't grab me at all.
May 10, 2023
Trail of Destiny (Hot on the Trail Book 5)
The love story of Alice and Jarris. The battle of the siblings. A brother and sister are battle over land right and Alive and Jarris have come to end the battle. Alice is on the side of the brother ANF Jarris is on the side of the sister. Who will win the battle and will Jarris win Alice 's heart? Great story.
The love story of Alice and Jarris. The battle of the siblings. A brother and sister are battle over land right and Alive and Jarris have come to end the battle. Alice is on the side of the brother ANF Jarris is on the side of the sister. Who will win the battle and will Jarris win Alice 's heart? Great story.
December 6, 2020
Great read
This book drew me in. I really got to know the characters. Some parts were predictable, but It was still a good read to get to that part. Excited to start the next series.
This book drew me in. I really got to know the characters. Some parts were predictable, but It was still a good read to get to that part. Excited to start the next series.
February 19, 2022
She lost her husband to the war and felt dead to
She wasn't more or less caring about living , till her father got sick and they decided to stay at the fort for him to rest and get better. He seen her and started having feeling for her from the beginning.
She wasn't more or less caring about living , till her father got sick and they decided to stay at the fort for him to rest and get better. He seen her and started having feeling for her from the beginning.
January 1, 2018
Nice story, good characters. Quick and easy to read.
May 1, 2022
Great book…. Recommened…
January 4, 2018
Merry Does It Again! In this book Alice gets her story. After being widowed young after a very short marriage, Alice doesnt think she will ever be able to love again. Stranded at a military fort a militiaman named Jarvis catches her eye, but she feels guilty having interest in him. After they are thrown together to help a local rancher things get interesting. I would highly recommend this book!
May 3, 2015
With Trail of Destiny, author Merry Farmer continues her Hot on the Trail series, this time with Alice Porter and Jarvis Flint.
For those of you familiar with the series, Alice is Emma's recently widowed sister. Alice is deeply depressed and in mourning. She married her father's clerk, Harry, two weeks before he went to war and was made a widow shortly thereafter.
Upon arrival at Fort Bridger, Alice and her father decide to separate from the wagon train and remain at the fort. Her father has the flu, which would make it difficult for them to continue. Conveniently, remaining will allow them to reunite with Alice's mother and sister, who remained behind at a way station after Emma sprained her ankle.
Jarvis is drawn to Alice and she to him, though she resists the attraction, believing that she should continue to mourn Harry. When the opportunity arises to settle a land dispute, Jarvis convinces Alice to join him, believing that if he spends time with her, he will convince her to give him a chance.
I will start off by stating that there is nothing really objectionable about this book. I just found it to be well, blah and slightly unbelievable. Until this book, all we know of Alice is that she is depressed and deeply mourning the loss of her husband and sitting listlessly. Yet, as soon as she arrives at Fort Brigder, Alice is aching to help out, finding small chores to keep herself busy. Perhaps if Ms Farmer ha given us a glimpse inside Alice's head prior to this, it wouldn't be as jarring.
It is also necessary to suspend one's disbelief that Alice and Jarvis fall in love with each other in a two week period. Romance novels inherently require suspension of disbelief, but I also prefer this suspension to follow a believable character arc. To go from depression to love in two weeks is a bit too much for me.
Ms Farmer clearly likes the idea of the Oregon Trail as a backdrop for romance stories. However, the contrivances she employs to keep the stories linked often seem farfetched. For all that Alice shows initial concern for her father's illness (and that he has the 'flu at a time when it was deadly is completely bypassed), this quickly disappears in favor of the romance between Alice and Jarvis. In the end, this latest installment of the Hot on the Trail series is a serviceable western romance.
Two stars.
For those of you familiar with the series, Alice is Emma's recently widowed sister. Alice is deeply depressed and in mourning. She married her father's clerk, Harry, two weeks before he went to war and was made a widow shortly thereafter.
Upon arrival at Fort Bridger, Alice and her father decide to separate from the wagon train and remain at the fort. Her father has the flu, which would make it difficult for them to continue. Conveniently, remaining will allow them to reunite with Alice's mother and sister, who remained behind at a way station after Emma sprained her ankle.
Jarvis is drawn to Alice and she to him, though she resists the attraction, believing that she should continue to mourn Harry. When the opportunity arises to settle a land dispute, Jarvis convinces Alice to join him, believing that if he spends time with her, he will convince her to give him a chance.
I will start off by stating that there is nothing really objectionable about this book. I just found it to be well, blah and slightly unbelievable. Until this book, all we know of Alice is that she is depressed and deeply mourning the loss of her husband and sitting listlessly. Yet, as soon as she arrives at Fort Brigder, Alice is aching to help out, finding small chores to keep herself busy. Perhaps if Ms Farmer ha given us a glimpse inside Alice's head prior to this, it wouldn't be as jarring.
It is also necessary to suspend one's disbelief that Alice and Jarvis fall in love with each other in a two week period. Romance novels inherently require suspension of disbelief, but I also prefer this suspension to follow a believable character arc. To go from depression to love in two weeks is a bit too much for me.
Ms Farmer clearly likes the idea of the Oregon Trail as a backdrop for romance stories. However, the contrivances she employs to keep the stories linked often seem farfetched. For all that Alice shows initial concern for her father's illness (and that he has the 'flu at a time when it was deadly is completely bypassed), this quickly disappears in favor of the romance between Alice and Jarvis. In the end, this latest installment of the Hot on the Trail series is a serviceable western romance.
Two stars.
September 12, 2016
Merry Farmer’s writing flows smoothly and consistently throughout the book. The premise is solid and unique. Each book can be read as a standalone however I recommend reading in order as you get to feel that you are a part of the wagon train and become friends with the characters you read so much about. Some characters you learn to like and some you just don’t like at all. I like that the characters don’t immediately fall in love. It takes days and months for their affection to grow into something beautiful that is perfect for each couple.
This book shows you that you can go through a loss and grieve and yet love can find you when you least expect it. I liked that the book was set “off” the trail on a ranch. I had to laugh at the little things that Franklin kept pulling however in the end he learned a valuable lesson. I think this story had two happy endings, one for the couple and one for the brother and sister. Sometimes good can come from bad things that happen.
Overall I enjoyed this book and can’t wait to read the next one in the series to see how what is happening with the other characters.
This book shows you that you can go through a loss and grieve and yet love can find you when you least expect it. I liked that the book was set “off” the trail on a ranch. I had to laugh at the little things that Franklin kept pulling however in the end he learned a valuable lesson. I think this story had two happy endings, one for the couple and one for the brother and sister. Sometimes good can come from bad things that happen.
Overall I enjoyed this book and can’t wait to read the next one in the series to see how what is happening with the other characters.
September 4, 2015
Trail of Destiny is by Merry Farmer. It is book five in the Hot on the Trail series. It is set at Fort Bridger and then at the Haswell ranch in Wyoming territory. The author takes advantage of time and calls it Wyoming when in reality it wasn’t yet.
Alice Porter had spent the last few months in almost a stupor on the wagon train that was taking her, her parents and sister to Oregon. She was mourning the death of her husband Harry who was killed at Antietam almost a year ago. The last few days she had to come out of her stupor to care for her father as her mother and sister had stayed behind to allow her sister’s ankle to improve. Now she had to deal with her father’s illness. She made the decision to stop here and wait for the rest of the family and allow her father to get well instead of pushing on. Jarvis Flint was there to help her.
Jarvis was from California and had joined the militia instead of the army so he could help fight and yet not get drawn into the Civil War. This was not his father’s preference, he would rather Jarvis stay out of the fight forever. This and the verbal abuse his father had constantly poured onto Jarvis led to a chasm between them. Now that he had seen Alice, he wanted to help keep a smile on her face and to get to know her better as he helped her and her father.
Franklin Haswell, son of Howard Haswell, the wealthiest man in the area, came to Fort Bridger to get someone to come help solve the differences between his aunt and his father. He was afraid it was getting ready to explode. Franklin was a spoiled, arrogant young man. He felt his father’s position should automatically roll over onto him. Unfortunately, his eye fell on Alice and he set her on a pedestal to be placed in his house.
Now Jarvis and Alice agreed to go to the ranch and help solve the dispute. The friction between Jarvis and Franklin just got worse.
Alice Porter had spent the last few months in almost a stupor on the wagon train that was taking her, her parents and sister to Oregon. She was mourning the death of her husband Harry who was killed at Antietam almost a year ago. The last few days she had to come out of her stupor to care for her father as her mother and sister had stayed behind to allow her sister’s ankle to improve. Now she had to deal with her father’s illness. She made the decision to stop here and wait for the rest of the family and allow her father to get well instead of pushing on. Jarvis Flint was there to help her.
Jarvis was from California and had joined the militia instead of the army so he could help fight and yet not get drawn into the Civil War. This was not his father’s preference, he would rather Jarvis stay out of the fight forever. This and the verbal abuse his father had constantly poured onto Jarvis led to a chasm between them. Now that he had seen Alice, he wanted to help keep a smile on her face and to get to know her better as he helped her and her father.
Franklin Haswell, son of Howard Haswell, the wealthiest man in the area, came to Fort Bridger to get someone to come help solve the differences between his aunt and his father. He was afraid it was getting ready to explode. Franklin was a spoiled, arrogant young man. He felt his father’s position should automatically roll over onto him. Unfortunately, his eye fell on Alice and he set her on a pedestal to be placed in his house.
Now Jarvis and Alice agreed to go to the ranch and help solve the dispute. The friction between Jarvis and Franklin just got worse.
April 24, 2015
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Book five in the Hot on the Trail Series. Each book can be read as a standalone. Alice Porter has been brokenhearted the entire trip. She couldn't drag herself out of it After losing her husband of two weeks in the war she just didn't have in in her to move on. After leaving her mother and sister behind, it is now juts Alice and her father. When her father becomes ill as they arrive at Fort Bridger, she doesn't know what to do. Jarvis Flint was part of the militia manning the fort while the soldiers were off fighting in the war. Helping Alice with her father. There is something about her that calls to Jarvis. Alice and her father decide to stay at the fort while he recuperates to wait for her mother and sister. the wagon train moves on.
Love this series of books. Each can be read as a standalone but reading them in order gives you a better understanding of the people and the storyline. Alice up to this point as been mopey and sometimes you just want to shake her. In this book she finally realizes that she needs to pick up the pieces and move on with her life. AS her and Jarvis go on a adventure to help a local rancher, she starts to realize it is possible to fall in love again and be happy without the guilt. Jarvis was a wonderful character. Handsome and kind. He was determined to show Alice he was the man for her. He was willing to take it at her pace. With a few nudges here and there. Can't wait for the next book in the series. So many wonderful characters and the descriptions of the time period are wonderful.
Book five in the Hot on the Trail Series. Each book can be read as a standalone. Alice Porter has been brokenhearted the entire trip. She couldn't drag herself out of it After losing her husband of two weeks in the war she just didn't have in in her to move on. After leaving her mother and sister behind, it is now juts Alice and her father. When her father becomes ill as they arrive at Fort Bridger, she doesn't know what to do. Jarvis Flint was part of the militia manning the fort while the soldiers were off fighting in the war. Helping Alice with her father. There is something about her that calls to Jarvis. Alice and her father decide to stay at the fort while he recuperates to wait for her mother and sister. the wagon train moves on.
Love this series of books. Each can be read as a standalone but reading them in order gives you a better understanding of the people and the storyline. Alice up to this point as been mopey and sometimes you just want to shake her. In this book she finally realizes that she needs to pick up the pieces and move on with her life. AS her and Jarvis go on a adventure to help a local rancher, she starts to realize it is possible to fall in love again and be happy without the guilt. Jarvis was a wonderful character. Handsome and kind. He was determined to show Alice he was the man for her. He was willing to take it at her pace. With a few nudges here and there. Can't wait for the next book in the series. So many wonderful characters and the descriptions of the time period are wonderful.
April 23, 2015
This is the 5th book in the Hot on The Trail' series & this time we meet Alice Porter, a widow who's in mourning for her dead soldier husband Harry.
Alice has been mentioned in previous books as being very sad, withdrawn & basically a shadow of her former self.
She's been on the trail awhile with her Mother, father & sister Emma & finds herself having to leave it & stay & look after her sick father at Fort Bridger when her sister & mother are elsewhere.
While at the fort, she meets Jarvis Flint a very handsome militia man stationed there, who takes a shine to her.
Alice & Jarvis find out they have feelings for each other, when she didn't think it was possible to feel anything anymore for anyone except her dead husband.
Alice & Jarvis also end up having to try resolve a family feud between a brother & sister, Howard Haskell & Virginia Piedmont.
They end up not only helping them to build fences in a competition between the two siblings, but mending fences in the two's broken relationship too!
I loved this book as having read all this series so far it was a nice change not to have it set while on the trail as the others are and instead is set mainly at the fort & Mr Haskell's Green Stream Ranch.
Instead of 'Hot on the Trail' I think Merry Farmer has made this one more like 'Smoking Hot' on the Trail as the love scenes are just that!
I needed a cool glass of water after reading it, lol!
Fantastic, one of her best! Can't wait for the next books in the series!
Alice has been mentioned in previous books as being very sad, withdrawn & basically a shadow of her former self.
She's been on the trail awhile with her Mother, father & sister Emma & finds herself having to leave it & stay & look after her sick father at Fort Bridger when her sister & mother are elsewhere.
While at the fort, she meets Jarvis Flint a very handsome militia man stationed there, who takes a shine to her.
Alice & Jarvis find out they have feelings for each other, when she didn't think it was possible to feel anything anymore for anyone except her dead husband.
Alice & Jarvis also end up having to try resolve a family feud between a brother & sister, Howard Haskell & Virginia Piedmont.
They end up not only helping them to build fences in a competition between the two siblings, but mending fences in the two's broken relationship too!
I loved this book as having read all this series so far it was a nice change not to have it set while on the trail as the others are and instead is set mainly at the fort & Mr Haskell's Green Stream Ranch.
Instead of 'Hot on the Trail' I think Merry Farmer has made this one more like 'Smoking Hot' on the Trail as the love scenes are just that!
I needed a cool glass of water after reading it, lol!
Fantastic, one of her best! Can't wait for the next books in the series!
October 15, 2015
Alice Porter and her father arrive at Fort Bridger and must remain behind when the wagon train leaves they were traveling moved on – her father was diagnosed with influenza and deemed too ill to continue. Alice still mourns the death of her husband Harry who died almost a year ago while fighting in the Civil War. In the first scene Alice meets Jarvis Flint who is part of the militia manning the fort – she seems to come out of her stupor and realizes he is there as he helps her get her father to the fort to seek medical treatment. The romance of Alice and Jarvis includes an overland 2 day ride to a ranch, trying to help siblings settle a dispute, jealousy on the part of Jarvis, a competition, a young bully and falling in love.
I almost did not finish this book. I cannot believe that a father would encourage his daughter to go with two men he has known a very short time - no matter who they were or where they were going. I told myself that this series is more fairy tale than historically accurate telling of what life on a wagon train or as a pioneer settler would be like and then skimmed the book. It was okay but not my favorite of the series.
Thank you to Badass Marketing for the copy of this book to read and review.
I almost did not finish this book. I cannot believe that a father would encourage his daughter to go with two men he has known a very short time - no matter who they were or where they were going. I told myself that this series is more fairy tale than historically accurate telling of what life on a wagon train or as a pioneer settler would be like and then skimmed the book. It was okay but not my favorite of the series.
Thank you to Badass Marketing for the copy of this book to read and review.
April 23, 2016
This isn't one specific thing wrong with this installment in the series. I just found it too boring and more than a little unbelievable. This is the third in the series I've read and will be the last as I can only suspend reality for so long. Alice was mourning her husband and full of grief a year after having been married only a couple of weeks. Deeply depressed when she gets to Ft. Bridger, she sets out to change the look of the fort by working incessantly at any and every job. Anyone who knows anything about depression knows that's not very likely.
She pretty much deserted her sick, potentially dying father at the fort to go fix a problem that a complete stranger asked for help with. And to go with Jarvis who she wanted to stay away from because of her growing feelings for him. The whole fence building thing was just plain dumb. The reason behind the potential range war between siblings was a little ridiculous. Franklin was too stupid to live.
Finally, there were a few spelling errors and a ridiculous comment when Franklin wanted to show her his prize steer. It probably should have been bull because ranches don't typically have prize steers. It makes no sense. Get a better editor.
She pretty much deserted her sick, potentially dying father at the fort to go fix a problem that a complete stranger asked for help with. And to go with Jarvis who she wanted to stay away from because of her growing feelings for him. The whole fence building thing was just plain dumb. The reason behind the potential range war between siblings was a little ridiculous. Franklin was too stupid to live.
Finally, there were a few spelling errors and a ridiculous comment when Franklin wanted to show her his prize steer. It probably should have been bull because ranches don't typically have prize steers. It makes no sense. Get a better editor.
April 20, 2015
LEARNING TO LIVE AGAIN
This wonderful series continues with people we met in earlier books and new people we meet in this addition of the Hot On The Trail Series. Widow, Alice Porter, is traveling with her parents and sister from New York City to Oregon. After the storm and tornado that hit the wagon train causing Emma, her mother and Dr. Meyers to stay behind for her to heal, Alice and Mr. Sutton continue on the train. Arriving at Ft. Bridger in the Wyoming territory finds him sick with influenza, making them stop while the train continues on. Militiaman, Flint Javis, is taken with the widow immediately and assist her and her father. A young man, Frankin Haskell, comes to the fort begging for help with a border war between his father and aunt. Jarvis and Alice accompany him back to act as mediators. The story is full of heartache, regrets, new opportunities, forgiveness, reconciliation, leaning how to live again and love. Sometimes it takes an outside situation to open your eyes to your own feelings. So many HEA are found in this book. New adventures are on the way in the next one.
This wonderful series continues with people we met in earlier books and new people we meet in this addition of the Hot On The Trail Series. Widow, Alice Porter, is traveling with her parents and sister from New York City to Oregon. After the storm and tornado that hit the wagon train causing Emma, her mother and Dr. Meyers to stay behind for her to heal, Alice and Mr. Sutton continue on the train. Arriving at Ft. Bridger in the Wyoming territory finds him sick with influenza, making them stop while the train continues on. Militiaman, Flint Javis, is taken with the widow immediately and assist her and her father. A young man, Frankin Haskell, comes to the fort begging for help with a border war between his father and aunt. Jarvis and Alice accompany him back to act as mediators. The story is full of heartache, regrets, new opportunities, forgiveness, reconciliation, leaning how to live again and love. Sometimes it takes an outside situation to open your eyes to your own feelings. So many HEA are found in this book. New adventures are on the way in the next one.
April 23, 2015
First, I want to say that I received a copy of this book for my honest review.
That being said, wow, what an amazing book by Merry Farmer! I love the Hot on the Trail series and they just keep getting better and better. The other reviews go into the background of Alice and Jarvis, so I won't go over it again. What I do want to share is that this story allows you to fall into the pages and feel like part of the plot. I felt like I was actually there, wanting to slap Franklin, root for Jarvis, talk to Alice and say, "Girl, what is wrong with you?! Go for it!" I loved Howard and Ginny and wished that I could be part of their family. It is a beautifully written plot and I wish it wouldn't have ended.
I bought a kindle to buy books on so my house wouldn't get so cluttered. And, with this Hot on the Trail series, I think I will have to cross the line and buy the books in paperback because I love them that much! There are some steamy scenes so if that offends you, it might not be the book for you. But, of all the series I've read so far, this is one of those that I'd like to jump into a time machine and go visit.
That being said, wow, what an amazing book by Merry Farmer! I love the Hot on the Trail series and they just keep getting better and better. The other reviews go into the background of Alice and Jarvis, so I won't go over it again. What I do want to share is that this story allows you to fall into the pages and feel like part of the plot. I felt like I was actually there, wanting to slap Franklin, root for Jarvis, talk to Alice and say, "Girl, what is wrong with you?! Go for it!" I loved Howard and Ginny and wished that I could be part of their family. It is a beautifully written plot and I wish it wouldn't have ended.
I bought a kindle to buy books on so my house wouldn't get so cluttered. And, with this Hot on the Trail series, I think I will have to cross the line and buy the books in paperback because I love them that much! There are some steamy scenes so if that offends you, it might not be the book for you. But, of all the series I've read so far, this is one of those that I'd like to jump into a time machine and go visit.
April 23, 2015
I’ll be honest, in Trail of Longing, I was not a fan of Alice. I felt bad for her, but I felt she allowed herself to wallow and caused undue hardship on her sister that wasn’t necessary. It was refreshing to see in this book that she recognized that in herself and didn’t like it, and worked hard the rest of the time. She definitely came into her own. And boy did she do it in a spectacular fashion. I thought she was going to burn the barn down. THIS woman knows what she wants and goes for it! Jarvis is a good man. He is helpful and he is always seeking the best possible solution. And he has patience. Which is a good thing. I really enjoyed the ease that he brings to Alice. And I really enjoy that she brings the sense of pride in Jarvis.
Ms. Farmer still doesn’t disappoint in this continuation of her Hot on the Trail series. We’re tying several books together by the end of this one. She says there’s more to come, and I trust that they’ll be just as funny and full of life as these first books have been. So, would I recommend...(https://textuallove.wordpress.com/201...) Read the rest of the review behind the link.
Ms. Farmer still doesn’t disappoint in this continuation of her Hot on the Trail series. We’re tying several books together by the end of this one. She says there’s more to come, and I trust that they’ll be just as funny and full of life as these first books have been. So, would I recommend...(https://textuallove.wordpress.com/201...) Read the rest of the review behind the link.
April 24, 2015
***I received this as an ARC for my honest review***
Merry has done it again. The way this series flows from one book to another is wonderful. I have been waiting to read Alice's story. I didn't care too much for her in the other book. She was so closed off and letting everything bother her. She brought hardship onto her family. Letting anything and everything get her down.
In this book, that goes away. She starts to realize that she can be happy. When she thought that she could "only love once", she was able to see that that isn't true. She allowed herself to open her heart.
The first kiss between her and Jarvis was wonderful. That's where Alice really realized that it felt wonderful and that it was okay.
Merry has once again written beautiful characters and a wonderful plot. I always say that she has a way to make you feel like you are a part of the story and that is still the case. This book is seriously wonderful. Merry has become one of my favorite authors. I can always loose myself within her writing and I find that incredible.
You won't be disappointed with this book, or the rest of the series.
Merry has done it again. The way this series flows from one book to another is wonderful. I have been waiting to read Alice's story. I didn't care too much for her in the other book. She was so closed off and letting everything bother her. She brought hardship onto her family. Letting anything and everything get her down.
In this book, that goes away. She starts to realize that she can be happy. When she thought that she could "only love once", she was able to see that that isn't true. She allowed herself to open her heart.
The first kiss between her and Jarvis was wonderful. That's where Alice really realized that it felt wonderful and that it was okay.
Merry has once again written beautiful characters and a wonderful plot. I always say that she has a way to make you feel like you are a part of the story and that is still the case. This book is seriously wonderful. Merry has become one of my favorite authors. I can always loose myself within her writing and I find that incredible.
You won't be disappointed with this book, or the rest of the series.
September 8, 2015
LEARNING TO LIVE AGAIN
This wonderful series continues with people we met in earlier books and new people we meet in this addition of the Hot On The Trail Series. Widow, Alice Porter, is traveling with her parents and sister from New York City to Oregon. After the storm and tornado that hit the wagon train causing Emma, her mother and Dr. Meyers to stay behind for her to heal, Alice and Mr. Sutton continue on the train. Arriving at Ft. Bridger in the Wyoming territory finds him sick with influenza, making them stop while the train continues on. Militiaman, Flint Javis, is taken with the widow immediately and assist her and her father. A young man, Frankin Haskell, comes to the fort begging for help with a border war between his father and aunt. Jarvis and Alice accompany him back to act as mediators. The story is full of heartache, regrets, new opportunities, forgiveness, reconciliation, leaning how to live again and love. Sometimes it takes an outside situation to open your eyes to your own feelings. So many HEA are found in this book. New adventures are on the way in the next one.
This wonderful series continues with people we met in earlier books and new people we meet in this addition of the Hot On The Trail Series. Widow, Alice Porter, is traveling with her parents and sister from New York City to Oregon. After the storm and tornado that hit the wagon train causing Emma, her mother and Dr. Meyers to stay behind for her to heal, Alice and Mr. Sutton continue on the train. Arriving at Ft. Bridger in the Wyoming territory finds him sick with influenza, making them stop while the train continues on. Militiaman, Flint Javis, is taken with the widow immediately and assist her and her father. A young man, Frankin Haskell, comes to the fort begging for help with a border war between his father and aunt. Jarvis and Alice accompany him back to act as mediators. The story is full of heartache, regrets, new opportunities, forgiveness, reconciliation, leaning how to live again and love. Sometimes it takes an outside situation to open your eyes to your own feelings. So many HEA are found in this book. New adventures are on the way in the next one.
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April 22, 2015love the book. can't wait to read the next it! i love the story line, easier to follow! all her books are great!Young widow, Alice Porter, never thought she would fall in love again, and that her family’s journey along the Oregon Trail was the end of her story. Rugged militiaman, Jarvis Flint, never thought he would fall in love in the first place, even though he is determined to be a man of honor and to do his duty. But sometimes the things you never think will happen are the ones that hit you when you aren’t looking.
When a routine rest along the trail turns into an opportunity to stop a land war between feuding brother and sister ranch owners, Alice finds herself draw into an adventure her grieving heart isn’t prepared for. More than an adventure, as she and Jarvis work together to resolve the siblings’ dispute, they find themselves battling a passion that neither can deny. In competition with each other and with themselves, they fight to uncover a love that is worth sacrificing for and a life after heartbreak.
When a routine rest along the trail turns into an opportunity to stop a land war between feuding brother and sister ranch owners, Alice finds herself draw into an adventure her grieving heart isn’t prepared for. More than an adventure, as she and Jarvis work together to resolve the siblings’ dispute, they find themselves battling a passion that neither can deny. In competition with each other and with themselves, they fight to uncover a love that is worth sacrificing for and a life after heartbreak.
April 25, 2015
This is the first book in the series that i have read, i'm not much of a fan of stories set in older times but upon reading Trail of Destiny, i think i'll read the other 4 now. The book gave me a glimpse on how simple life was on those times, simple & complicated due to the war. Going on a trail & being stuck in Ft Bridger to her father's illness, Alice suddenly found herself working & helping around the fort as a way of not just wallowing away & mourning her dead husband. Meeting one of the militiamen, Jarvis, who was completely taken by Alice, is the one person who can finally free her of her sadness. Being able to help a sister & a brother reach peace in their dispute gave Alice the realizations she needs, and also peace on herself that she do needs to move on & will be able to love again.
I love how the story was made, the struggles of Alice & Jarvis' patience with her, the banter of Harold & Ginny as well as Franklin's immatureness. I'll be reading the rest of the series to meet the other characters.
**Received an ARC for an honest review**
I love how the story was made, the struggles of Alice & Jarvis' patience with her, the banter of Harold & Ginny as well as Franklin's immatureness. I'll be reading the rest of the series to meet the other characters.
**Received an ARC for an honest review**
April 25, 2015
I could really feel for Alice and her struggle to allow herself to live again and love again, nearly one year after her husband's death in the War Between the States. She wants to be loyal, faithful to his memory even though he's gone.
Jarvis understands Alice, maybe even better than she currently understands herself. He is patient, loving and wants only what is best for her, which he feels includes himself.
Watching their love struggle against Alice's oppressive widowhood and try to come to life is a part of the wonderful journey of this book. More interesting is watching Alice finally come into her own, as she had always been previously defined by labels, daughter, debutante, wife, widow, but now she is discovering who she wants to be. Defining herself.
Of course the romance is heart warming and smoking hot but for me the even bigger reward was Alice's personal journey.
Jarvis understands Alice, maybe even better than she currently understands herself. He is patient, loving and wants only what is best for her, which he feels includes himself.
Watching their love struggle against Alice's oppressive widowhood and try to come to life is a part of the wonderful journey of this book. More interesting is watching Alice finally come into her own, as she had always been previously defined by labels, daughter, debutante, wife, widow, but now she is discovering who she wants to be. Defining herself.
Of course the romance is heart warming and smoking hot but for me the even bigger reward was Alice's personal journey.
June 16, 2015
Hands down this one was my favorite out of the series, I freakin' loved Jarvis, he knew how to make his woman feel appreciated, "I’m sorry I got so carried away,” Jarvis answered, his voice as rough and ragged as hers. “It was good though,” he went on. “Very good." He's always willing to offer his services to his girl when she wants a man's arms around her, "I’d be happy to remind you what that feels like any time you need it,” he said, body already heating at the implications. “In fact, I’d like to remind you on a regular, official basis." I loved how animalistic he turned when his girl makes an innocent comment, "come inside of me,” she whispered, feeling as wicked as some pagan goddess. “Take your pleasure from me.” Jarvis’s only response was to growl as though her wish was his command." Although we won't see these characters anymore I hear there's going to be more of the series coming with new characters that is so exciting, I can't wait.
September 25, 2015
Alice is done mourning
"Their kiss pulsed with love and longing, far beyond simple passion that could find a physical outlet. This kiss was a promise, a song."
Alice is Emma's sister. She has been riding along the Oregon Trail in a daze. After Emma and her mother stay behind, she has to step up and help her father. But her father becomes ill and they stay behind at Ft Bridger. Jarvis is a very helpful militiaman at the fort.
I didn't care as much for this installment in the series. I don't think the guy on the cover is all that interesting. Alice fusses too much about still being in mourning after almost a whole year. Who gives up their future for two weeks of wedded bliss? Jarvis is a very kind and patient man. The feud between the sibling ranchers is understandable if overblown, but what is the deal with Franklin the younger son?
Once again this novel is labeled as HOT. Lots of kisses. Two well described love scenes. You decide.
"Their kiss pulsed with love and longing, far beyond simple passion that could find a physical outlet. This kiss was a promise, a song."
Alice is Emma's sister. She has been riding along the Oregon Trail in a daze. After Emma and her mother stay behind, she has to step up and help her father. But her father becomes ill and they stay behind at Ft Bridger. Jarvis is a very helpful militiaman at the fort.
I didn't care as much for this installment in the series. I don't think the guy on the cover is all that interesting. Alice fusses too much about still being in mourning after almost a whole year. Who gives up their future for two weeks of wedded bliss? Jarvis is a very kind and patient man. The feud between the sibling ranchers is understandable if overblown, but what is the deal with Franklin the younger son?
Once again this novel is labeled as HOT. Lots of kisses. Two well described love scenes. You decide.
April 22, 2015
This book was very interesting and I finally got the chance to read it. Alice is a young widow moving west on the wagon train with her family. As you read this series in order you will find out why it was just her and her father journeying on without her mother and sister. She just can't seem to find a light at the end of her tunnel. Her husband of a few weeks being killed in the war. As they arrive at a fort along the trail, her father falls sick and they end up staying for him to recover and wait for her family members to catch up. Jarvis is smitten at first glance. A militia man stationed at the fort. Does he have the patience to help Alice see the light? An unplanned adventure takes them into the wilderness where we meet a whole new cast of characters who were a joy to read about. I can't wait to read the next book and to find out how all the characters are faring.
April 24, 2015
Trail of Destiny is book 5 in the series Hot on the Trail. I received this book as an ARC. I didn’t think Merry Farmer could top Katie and Aiden’s story from book 4, but I was surprised and totally wrong I love Alice and Jarvis’ story. Just when you think she cannot top the current book she pulls out an amazing new book that tops the last one. You will truly not be disappointed in reading this book. However, I suggest if you haven’t read books 1-4 I would go back and read them!
When Franklin Haskell shows up at Fort Bridger hoping that they can send someone out to help settle his family’s feud between his father and his aunt, Jarvis volunteers his and Alice’s assistance. Jarvis is hoping to get some more one on one time alone with Alice. Will Jarvis and Alice be able to help solve this family feud? Will Alice be able to get over Harry’s death and fall for Franklin or Jarvis?
When Franklin Haskell shows up at Fort Bridger hoping that they can send someone out to help settle his family’s feud between his father and his aunt, Jarvis volunteers his and Alice’s assistance. Jarvis is hoping to get some more one on one time alone with Alice. Will Jarvis and Alice be able to help solve this family feud? Will Alice be able to get over Harry’s death and fall for Franklin or Jarvis?
April 23, 2015
I received this book for an honest review.
I know I keep saying the books of Ms Farmer's series, Hot on the Trail, is one of my favorite series. Her writing really shines in Trail of Destiny. We meet some characters from other books of the series and introduced to new ones that are exciting, well developed, and likable.
Here in Trail of Destiny the reader can find loss, grief, compassion, humor, adventure, love, and new beginnings. The landscape is not as detailed as some of the other books but by the description given, you realize the beauty and wildness of the countryside.
Again, Merry Farmer has written an exceptional book that is a wonderful addition to her current series. I absolutely look forward to the next one.
I know I keep saying the books of Ms Farmer's series, Hot on the Trail, is one of my favorite series. Her writing really shines in Trail of Destiny. We meet some characters from other books of the series and introduced to new ones that are exciting, well developed, and likable.
Here in Trail of Destiny the reader can find loss, grief, compassion, humor, adventure, love, and new beginnings. The landscape is not as detailed as some of the other books but by the description given, you realize the beauty and wildness of the countryside.
Again, Merry Farmer has written an exceptional book that is a wonderful addition to her current series. I absolutely look forward to the next one.
April 23, 2015
I loved this story! Merry Farmer continues the Hot on the Trail Series with this book. I won't repeat the synopsis or book blurb. If you're reading reviews, you already know what the storyline is.
But what I want to say is that the author has continued this series incorporating the characters from the previous books in the series without being repetitive. Characters cross over through different books so that you know how the characters know each other. And you get to keep up with how the couples in the other stories are doing.
Wonderfully talented author!!! This series is a keeper!
But what I want to say is that the author has continued this series incorporating the characters from the previous books in the series without being repetitive. Characters cross over through different books so that you know how the characters know each other. And you get to keep up with how the couples in the other stories are doing.
Wonderfully talented author!!! This series is a keeper!
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