Reviewed by JoAnne
Book provided by the author
This is the fourth book in Wiley's American Wilderness series and it did not disappoint. While this book opens with its prologue in 1792 in Scotland most of the story takes place in the United States - mainly Virginia and Kentucky. The prologue gave a lot of background information and only made me want to see where the author would take us next.
This is Bear and Artis' story and what a story it is. There are so many twists and turns, misadventures and mishaps that I kept turning the pages to see what would happen next. It was great to be reunited with Bear's brothers, Sam and William and their families but William, his wife Kelly and his father-in-law are front and center in this book. When Bear and Artis first meet there is an instant attraction and the chemistry became apparent each subsequent time they met up. Finding out they're descended from the same part of Scotland, the same clan and that they both carry their heritage with pride only makes them have a stronger connection. Learning their customs and hearing them speak their native tongue just strengthened their ties. I loved how they added the phrase, And a wee bit longer to many circumstances and how they reminisced about their lives there. Kentucky was still rough and there were a lot of unsavory and dangerous characters. Both Kelly and Artis showed their ability to get things done and not to show their fear no matter what dilemma they found themselves in. They were definitely forces to be reckoned with and both had the strength to survive such an untamed place. There were wonderful descriptions of the land, the animals, the homes and the relationships between friends and foe. The story flowed smoothly and had secrets, fear, longing, wild animals, weapons, good guys and bad, heartache and happiness along with tears, illness, dreams, hard work, romance and love. Bear was ferocious but could be surprisingly gentle especially with and around Artis. There were many layers to all the characters and it was a pleasure to get to know them better as the story progressed. There was a happily ever after and nice closure but an epilogue would have been great.
Wiley is one of my favorite new authors. I love her accurate portrayal of the settling of the American Frontier and also how her characters come to life. I was happy to see that the series will continue since there will be a fifth book that I can't wait to read it. Well done once again Ms. Wiley!
Favorite Quote: ..."But we did not lose what is most important. We carry the pride of our ancestors and our love for Scotland with us in our hearts. It is na left back in the Highlands. The Almighty sent us both here for a reason. It's yer duty to learn what that reason is."