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The Trail Master's Bride
After being cast out of her childhood home by her horrid stepmother and forced into a marriage by her uncaring father, Mina Hobart reluctantly begins the journey west on the Oregon Trail, hating every minute of each hot, dusty day. Then tragedy strikes and Mina is left a widow.
The west is no place for a young, newly single woman, and the job of keeping Mina safe—and keeping her in line—falls to Weston Carr, the rugged trail master. Weston quickly proves more than ready to tame the feisty redhead’s careless ways and sassy tongue, even if that means taking her over his knee for a good, hard, bare-bottom spanking.
Unfortunately, even as Mina does her best to learn to cook over a camp fire, make coffee properly, and do the laundry in a creek, jealousy and gossip among the other wives quickly build into significant strife in the wagon train. To quell the gathering storm, Weston is forced to take matters into his own hands and make Mina his bride, whether she likes it or not.
Despite Weston’s rough ways and firm-handed discipline, Mina soon finds pleasure in his arms far beyond anything she has experienced before. But when a series of mishaps befalls the wagon train—incidents in which Mina is the prime suspect—the new couple’s growing bond is badly strained. Can Mina prove she is not at fault before things come to a head, and if she does, will Weston be able to protect her from whichever of their traveling companions is up to no good?
Publisher’s Note: The Trail Master’s Bride is an erotic Western romance novel that contains sexual scenes and spankings, including domestic discipline in a historical setting. If such material offends you, please don’t buy this book.
The west is no place for a young, newly single woman, and the job of keeping Mina safe—and keeping her in line—falls to Weston Carr, the rugged trail master. Weston quickly proves more than ready to tame the feisty redhead’s careless ways and sassy tongue, even if that means taking her over his knee for a good, hard, bare-bottom spanking.
Unfortunately, even as Mina does her best to learn to cook over a camp fire, make coffee properly, and do the laundry in a creek, jealousy and gossip among the other wives quickly build into significant strife in the wagon train. To quell the gathering storm, Weston is forced to take matters into his own hands and make Mina his bride, whether she likes it or not.
Despite Weston’s rough ways and firm-handed discipline, Mina soon finds pleasure in his arms far beyond anything she has experienced before. But when a series of mishaps befalls the wagon train—incidents in which Mina is the prime suspect—the new couple’s growing bond is badly strained. Can Mina prove she is not at fault before things come to a head, and if she does, will Weston be able to protect her from whichever of their traveling companions is up to no good?
Publisher’s Note: The Trail Master’s Bride is an erotic Western romance novel that contains sexual scenes and spankings, including domestic discipline in a historical setting. If such material offends you, please don’t buy this book.
145 pages, ebook
First published July 10, 2015
83 people are currently reading
85 people want to read
About the author
Maddie Taylor
88 books552 followersUSA Today and #1 International Bestselling Author, Maddie is a lifelong reader who became a romance junkie as a teen with her first romance novel, The Wolf and the Dove by Kathleen Woodiwiss. From then on, she was hooked and gobbled up everything she could get her hands on, whether contemporary, historical, paranormal, or sci-fi.
With over seventy published works, a quarter of a million books sold, and fifty million pages read, Maddie writes fast-paced, steamy fiction in multiple genres from contemporary to Sci-fi to historical western romance. Pour yourself a glass of wine, curl up in your favorite chair, and escape for a few hours in the rich worlds she creates. It will be time well spent.
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With over seventy published works, a quarter of a million books sold, and fifty million pages read, Maddie writes fast-paced, steamy fiction in multiple genres from contemporary to Sci-fi to historical western romance. Pour yourself a glass of wine, curl up in your favorite chair, and escape for a few hours in the rich worlds she creates. It will be time well spent.
***NEWSLETTER*** Sign up to receive a free book --> https://dl.bookfunnel.com/l2b0z0etex
Keep up with Maddie by subscribing to her monthly newsletter. Get author updates, info on upcoming books, book promotions, low and free book information, free content, and awesome monthly giveaways.
As always, Maddie thanks her readers for supporting and embracing her books. Please post a review so she knows what you're thinking. Constructive, earnest reviews are always welcome.
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September 11, 2022
Warning: The Below Contains Spoilers and Homophobia
The blurb adequately conveys the book's content, so I'm not going to describe it here. I'm not even going to say what I liked, because given the explicit anti-LGBTQ+ bias, that's immaterial. What I am going to do is give a few examples of some of the most hateful, bigoted language I've read in one of these generic books:
1) "I’m no milksop, citified fop posing as a man; I’m the real thing.”
2) “Don’t you think you’re taking friendship a bit too far?” “No, bitch, don’t you see? He may have married you, but it was me he yearned for.” As his meaning took hold, Mina inhaled sharply, choking as shock swept through her. “You mean—” “Yes, you idiot,” he supplied. “Elliott and I were lovers.” She now recognized the look in his eyes that had been hard to pinpoint in their prior encounters. It was envy, pure and simple, with a good dose of hatred laced in. “Why do you think he left you untouched after you wed? He loved me, not you, who was nothing but a harpy, a shrew, and a whore. You were simply a means to an end, a bankroll for the new life we had planned together."
3) It all made sense. Elliott’s unqualified contempt from the beginning. Avery’s unexplained hatred. Except for one missing fact. “Wait, you said you were going to build a life together? He was married to me. What were you planning to do about that?” His face took on a wickedly evil light, and she didn’t have to wonder anymore. “You planned to kill me all along!” she accused.
4) A high-pitched cackling rushed out of him as if he’d said the most amusing thing ever. “You’re mad,” Mina accused. He raised his gun, aiming point-blank at her chest. The odd light in his eyes told her it was most likely true.
5) He turned tear-filled eyes toward her. “I lost my dear Elliott. All I have left are memories, which don’t keep you warm, fed, or sheltered at night. Though, I figured one more pleasant memory might help to sustain me. The moment of your death and the knowledge that your last thought was how I’ll go on happily living on the land your money bought.”
Enough said.
1 star. I see that Stormy Night Publications originally published this book. Given that the homophobia is so explicit that one can hardly claim ignorance, I find it incredibly disheartening that any publisher and any author thought this book was a good idea. And this is #467 for why I don't think that fantasy excuses everything.
ETA: It always amuses me when other readers get upset by my reviews. So, to anyone who doesn't recognize homophobia, a brief primer: it includes such gendered slurs as "high-pitched" and "fop;" characterizations that include effeminacy; correlation between sexual orientation and mental illness; correlation between sexual orientation and evil; and the hatred of heterosexuality (in this case, gay men who despise women). Really sad that in this day and age, I have to explain this at all. I'll also add that clearly some people got it or they wouldn't have liked my review.
The blurb adequately conveys the book's content, so I'm not going to describe it here. I'm not even going to say what I liked, because given the explicit anti-LGBTQ+ bias, that's immaterial. What I am going to do is give a few examples of some of the most hateful, bigoted language I've read in one of these generic books:
1) "I’m no milksop, citified fop posing as a man; I’m the real thing.”
2) “Don’t you think you’re taking friendship a bit too far?” “No, bitch, don’t you see? He may have married you, but it was me he yearned for.” As his meaning took hold, Mina inhaled sharply, choking as shock swept through her. “You mean—” “Yes, you idiot,” he supplied. “Elliott and I were lovers.” She now recognized the look in his eyes that had been hard to pinpoint in their prior encounters. It was envy, pure and simple, with a good dose of hatred laced in. “Why do you think he left you untouched after you wed? He loved me, not you, who was nothing but a harpy, a shrew, and a whore. You were simply a means to an end, a bankroll for the new life we had planned together."
3) It all made sense. Elliott’s unqualified contempt from the beginning. Avery’s unexplained hatred. Except for one missing fact. “Wait, you said you were going to build a life together? He was married to me. What were you planning to do about that?” His face took on a wickedly evil light, and she didn’t have to wonder anymore. “You planned to kill me all along!” she accused.
4) A high-pitched cackling rushed out of him as if he’d said the most amusing thing ever. “You’re mad,” Mina accused. He raised his gun, aiming point-blank at her chest. The odd light in his eyes told her it was most likely true.
5) He turned tear-filled eyes toward her. “I lost my dear Elliott. All I have left are memories, which don’t keep you warm, fed, or sheltered at night. Though, I figured one more pleasant memory might help to sustain me. The moment of your death and the knowledge that your last thought was how I’ll go on happily living on the land your money bought.”
Enough said.
1 star. I see that Stormy Night Publications originally published this book. Given that the homophobia is so explicit that one can hardly claim ignorance, I find it incredibly disheartening that any publisher and any author thought this book was a good idea. And this is #467 for why I don't think that fantasy excuses everything.
ETA: It always amuses me when other readers get upset by my reviews. So, to anyone who doesn't recognize homophobia, a brief primer: it includes such gendered slurs as "high-pitched" and "fop;" characterizations that include effeminacy; correlation between sexual orientation and mental illness; correlation between sexual orientation and evil; and the hatred of heterosexuality (in this case, gay men who despise women). Really sad that in this day and age, I have to explain this at all. I'll also add that clearly some people got it or they wouldn't have liked my review.
February 25, 2023
Misogynistic with a surprise homophobic twist
September 26, 2022
The Trail Master’s Bride tells the story of Mina and Wes. He’s the titular trail master; as the title lets you know, she’s the woman who’ll become his bride over the course of their westward trek. Mina is trapped in a loveless marriage at the start of this book. Taylor does a good job reminding readers that women were the property of their fathers and then their husbands at this time, as Mina is given no say in her marriage or in her husband’s choice to go west. But she’s woefully, woefully underprepared for life in a wagon train.
Taylor balances the fine line needed in a domestic discipline romance of, on the one hand, making a heroine worthy of correction while, on the other hand, not making her appear incredibly stupid in earning that correction. Mina is ignorant, not stupid, and once given a chance to learn begins to thrive.
That guidance comes from Wes, who knows this will be his last trip west as he intends to settle in Oregon. I struggled a bit when Wes was put in the situation where he had to marry Mina to save her reputation. He knew he wanted to get married, he was incredibly drawn to Mina—and yet marriage hadn’t crossed his mind before? That seemed odd.
This book doesn’t focus on external dangers typical in a western romance. It’s hyper-focused on Mina and Wes and an internal threat from those journeying with them. It’s a solid entry in the DD genre.
Taylor balances the fine line needed in a domestic discipline romance of, on the one hand, making a heroine worthy of correction while, on the other hand, not making her appear incredibly stupid in earning that correction. Mina is ignorant, not stupid, and once given a chance to learn begins to thrive.
That guidance comes from Wes, who knows this will be his last trip west as he intends to settle in Oregon. I struggled a bit when Wes was put in the situation where he had to marry Mina to save her reputation. He knew he wanted to get married, he was incredibly drawn to Mina—and yet marriage hadn’t crossed his mind before? That seemed odd.
This book doesn’t focus on external dangers typical in a western romance. It’s hyper-focused on Mina and Wes and an internal threat from those journeying with them. It’s a solid entry in the DD genre.
September 11, 2022
TROUBLE FINDS YOU
The story is a western historical tale that takes place along the Oregon Trail. While there will be parts that reference back to life in Boston—the main part of the story is life along the trail. It has plenty of angst, along with mystery, suspense, and danger, and once again, Mina will find herself forced into a marriage.
Mina Franks has not had a loving home since the death of her mother when she was a young girl. Her father only cares about having a male heir, and so far, that hasn’t happened. He has arranged marriages for his daughters, and now Mina finds herself married to Elliott Hobart, who plans to move to the Oregon Territory. The only reason he agrees to the marriage is to finance it with her dowery.
The story’s plot will have the Hobarts joining the wagon train in Independence, Missouri, in 1852. Elliot is rude, condescending, and constantly insulting and belittling her. Along the trail, they stay in heated arguments, with him yelling at her about her inadequacies—but it was never something she did in life before now. She will leave in a huff, and that will bring trail master, Weston ‘Wes’ Carr, will have to go after her and bring her back when her husband won’t. Before long, this wagon train will be hit hard with a disease, and many will perish. Mina will be one to lose her husband, and now, more so than before, Wes must look out for her as a single woman. But her temper will finally push him into action.
Wes: You’ll find I’m not the kind of man who puts up with sass and nonsense, Mrs. Hobart. You will do what I say, when I say, or your backside will pay the penalty.
Mina: You wouldn’t dare raise a hand to me.
Wes: A fist in anger, never. The broad palm of my hand across your troublesome backside, in a heartbeat. Don’t believe me? Push me further.
The story will have wives on the wagon train demanding that Mina be put off at the next waystation along the way—something that Wes refuses to do. Then it is decided she needs to be married and Wes should marry her—when he tries to stop that, an older man steps up and says he will marry her, and Wes agrees to marry her—and basically, she is without choice again.
“Two things about me you’ll learn if you haven’t already. I’m neither blind nor a fool.”
“Ben wasn’t the husband for you, Mina. You need a man with enough stamina to douse your fire and deal with all of your shenanigans.”
The story has plenty of angst along the way, and when several mishaps happen, Wes blames her, and no matter how much she says she did not do the things he blames her for, he doesn’t believe her, spanks her—and it leads to hard feelings. One thing she never was in the story was a liar—and he wasn’t fair, accepting her word—instead holding her guilty and punishing her.
“You’re an excellent wagon master, but that doesn’t mean I approve of the spank-master side of your personality.”
Overall, it is a good story, with plenty of passion, tension, adjustments, some mystery, suspense, danger, and then power exchange, discipline, and loving passion. I appreciated that it had an epilogue to give this story closure. I will say that I wished the book was better edited; it would have missing words and even words added that didn’t belong in sentences. I read this story from Kindle Unlimited.
The story is a western historical tale that takes place along the Oregon Trail. While there will be parts that reference back to life in Boston—the main part of the story is life along the trail. It has plenty of angst, along with mystery, suspense, and danger, and once again, Mina will find herself forced into a marriage.
Mina Franks has not had a loving home since the death of her mother when she was a young girl. Her father only cares about having a male heir, and so far, that hasn’t happened. He has arranged marriages for his daughters, and now Mina finds herself married to Elliott Hobart, who plans to move to the Oregon Territory. The only reason he agrees to the marriage is to finance it with her dowery.
The story’s plot will have the Hobarts joining the wagon train in Independence, Missouri, in 1852. Elliot is rude, condescending, and constantly insulting and belittling her. Along the trail, they stay in heated arguments, with him yelling at her about her inadequacies—but it was never something she did in life before now. She will leave in a huff, and that will bring trail master, Weston ‘Wes’ Carr, will have to go after her and bring her back when her husband won’t. Before long, this wagon train will be hit hard with a disease, and many will perish. Mina will be one to lose her husband, and now, more so than before, Wes must look out for her as a single woman. But her temper will finally push him into action.
Wes: You’ll find I’m not the kind of man who puts up with sass and nonsense, Mrs. Hobart. You will do what I say, when I say, or your backside will pay the penalty.
Mina: You wouldn’t dare raise a hand to me.
Wes: A fist in anger, never. The broad palm of my hand across your troublesome backside, in a heartbeat. Don’t believe me? Push me further.
The story will have wives on the wagon train demanding that Mina be put off at the next waystation along the way—something that Wes refuses to do. Then it is decided she needs to be married and Wes should marry her—when he tries to stop that, an older man steps up and says he will marry her, and Wes agrees to marry her—and basically, she is without choice again.
“Two things about me you’ll learn if you haven’t already. I’m neither blind nor a fool.”
“Ben wasn’t the husband for you, Mina. You need a man with enough stamina to douse your fire and deal with all of your shenanigans.”
The story has plenty of angst along the way, and when several mishaps happen, Wes blames her, and no matter how much she says she did not do the things he blames her for, he doesn’t believe her, spanks her—and it leads to hard feelings. One thing she never was in the story was a liar—and he wasn’t fair, accepting her word—instead holding her guilty and punishing her.
“You’re an excellent wagon master, but that doesn’t mean I approve of the spank-master side of your personality.”
Overall, it is a good story, with plenty of passion, tension, adjustments, some mystery, suspense, danger, and then power exchange, discipline, and loving passion. I appreciated that it had an epilogue to give this story closure. I will say that I wished the book was better edited; it would have missing words and even words added that didn’t belong in sentences. I read this story from Kindle Unlimited.
September 12, 2015
***Between 3.5 to 4 stars***
**Beware this book including domestic discipline which includes spankings***
This was my first book by Maddie Taylor and I would definitely check out more of her books. This book had it all. Funny moments, scary moments, sexy moments, laugh out loud moments and sweet moments.
I loved the interactions between Weston and Mina. She was a feisty one and he had his hands full dealing with her. She definitely got herself into trouble with that mouth of hers and her quick temper. Weston was definitely the right man to handle her. I was a fan of Weston for the most part, but I wish he would have gave Mina the benefit of the doubt sometimes. Especially when mishaps were happening all over the place and she keep proclaiming her innocence. I understand why she was hurt and mad at him. But he did apologize in the end and it was sincere. So he was back in my good graces. :-)
The twist at the end was nice. I had a feeling who the bad guy was, but I didn't realize everything. That was fun.
Overall this was a nice quick read. I would recommend this book if you're OK with the discipline that goes on.
**Beware this book including domestic discipline which includes spankings***
This was my first book by Maddie Taylor and I would definitely check out more of her books. This book had it all. Funny moments, scary moments, sexy moments, laugh out loud moments and sweet moments.
I loved the interactions between Weston and Mina. She was a feisty one and he had his hands full dealing with her. She definitely got herself into trouble with that mouth of hers and her quick temper. Weston was definitely the right man to handle her. I was a fan of Weston for the most part, but I wish he would have gave Mina the benefit of the doubt sometimes. Especially when mishaps were happening all over the place and she keep proclaiming her innocence. I understand why she was hurt and mad at him. But he did apologize in the end and it was sincere. So he was back in my good graces. :-)
The twist at the end was nice. I had a feeling who the bad guy was, but I didn't realize everything. That was fun.
Overall this was a nice quick read. I would recommend this book if you're OK with the discipline that goes on.
Read
September 10, 2022Long road
Mina's evil stepmother married her off to a man twice her age, who wants to go from Boston to the Oregon Territory. Problem is that Mina really dislikes her new husband, the feeling is mutual, and Mina is a city girl.
Weston is the captain of the wagon train that Mina and her new husband are a member of. They are on his last nerve because they are always arguing and they clearly don't know what they are doing.
I felt sorry for Mina because she went from the frying pan to the fire with her marriage. No one seemed to love her except her sisters. Being widowed was a relief until the women on the wagon train gave her crap. I don't think that she was stupid or anything, she was just put in a situation for which she was woefully unprepared and unskilled. I just can't even imagine.
Wes was definitely a good man. I think there were times he was clueless, just a little bit. But a very good man. He does what he can to protect Mina, no matter what.
A enjoyable story.
Mina's evil stepmother married her off to a man twice her age, who wants to go from Boston to the Oregon Territory. Problem is that Mina really dislikes her new husband, the feeling is mutual, and Mina is a city girl.
Weston is the captain of the wagon train that Mina and her new husband are a member of. They are on his last nerve because they are always arguing and they clearly don't know what they are doing.
I felt sorry for Mina because she went from the frying pan to the fire with her marriage. No one seemed to love her except her sisters. Being widowed was a relief until the women on the wagon train gave her crap. I don't think that she was stupid or anything, she was just put in a situation for which she was woefully unprepared and unskilled. I just can't even imagine.
Wes was definitely a good man. I think there were times he was clueless, just a little bit. But a very good man. He does what he can to protect Mina, no matter what.
A enjoyable story.
October 13, 2022
Weston and Mina
This is a slightly spicy tale of one strong and handsome Oregon Trail trail boss. Maddie and her husband are one one the members of this wagon train adventure. Shortly into the trail the train suffers several members come cowboy with smallpox. Her husband dies and is buried along the trail. The trail master decides to allow her to travel in his wagon until they each a fort where she can be left to travel back to Boston.Along the way some members demand she marry some one or leave the train immediately. Weston agrees to marry her. This is their story. Exciting, adventurous, a little sad and yet humorous in parts. You will enjoy discovering how they find their happily ever after their.
This is a slightly spicy tale of one strong and handsome Oregon Trail trail boss. Maddie and her husband are one one the members of this wagon train adventure. Shortly into the trail the train suffers several members come cowboy with smallpox. Her husband dies and is buried along the trail. The trail master decides to allow her to travel in his wagon until they each a fort where she can be left to travel back to Boston.Along the way some members demand she marry some one or leave the train immediately. Weston agrees to marry her. This is their story. Exciting, adventurous, a little sad and yet humorous in parts. You will enjoy discovering how they find their happily ever after their.
September 10, 2022
I stayed up late last night to finish it. You should do it too. You will not regret it. This story is really very good. I loved Mina from page one. She is determined and has a spine of steel which she needs. I won't mention her first husband but he is one of those characters that you will love to hate. Weston is his complete oppesit. All the characters are real and rounded. The descriptions of the trail are vivid. And so are the hot sexy scenes. I voluntarily read an advanced reader copy of this book and I recommend it. This book is a joy to read.
January 14, 2023
***Read for the Past Eaves challenge of Romanceopoly(read the first historical romance that catches your interest)***
Firstly, if you don't like discipline in your romances, skip this book. Second, the writing isn't the greatest in places, with missing commas that completely change the tone and meaning of sentences, words like "jeans" in a historical, and some missing words.
Putting all that aside, I enjoyed this well enough. It was quick and easy to read, with a dash of suspense and some tragedy caused by a smallpox outbreak. Mina, who had grown up pampered and sheltered in Boston, was forced to go on a wagon train to Oregon with her husband whom she was forced to wed. Her husband was a jerk, and so when he's killed in the smallpox outbreak(not a spoiler, we all know she ends up with the trail master mentioned in the title), the other women try to get Mina forced out of the train. Unwilling to let this happen, Wes, the hero, marries her, and that's when Mina, who'd been awful at doing everything including cooking as she'd had servants her whole life, learns to thrive.
Weston was pretty stern and went a bit overboard at times, but in his mind, Mina was doing things that put her in danger. And honestly, Mina was a little dim and did sometimes do some not so bright things. Then there was all the gruelling and awful things that could happen with life on a wagon train, and mysterious things kept happening so that people thought Mina was purposely ruining their food and laundry, and Weston blamed her for very important tools going missing. Wes had to learn to trust his wife and not overreact, and Mina had to learn to survive away from the leisurely life she'd led.
Overall, this was fun and easy to read. The writing certainly brought it down with the grammar and twenty-first century speech patterns in parts, and I did find Wes a little too much, especially in the very beginning. That being said, if you want a quick wagon train romance and you don't mind spanking, give this a try.
Firstly, if you don't like discipline in your romances, skip this book. Second, the writing isn't the greatest in places, with missing commas that completely change the tone and meaning of sentences, words like "jeans" in a historical, and some missing words.
Putting all that aside, I enjoyed this well enough. It was quick and easy to read, with a dash of suspense and some tragedy caused by a smallpox outbreak. Mina, who had grown up pampered and sheltered in Boston, was forced to go on a wagon train to Oregon with her husband whom she was forced to wed. Her husband was a jerk, and so when he's killed in the smallpox outbreak(not a spoiler, we all know she ends up with the trail master mentioned in the title), the other women try to get Mina forced out of the train. Unwilling to let this happen, Wes, the hero, marries her, and that's when Mina, who'd been awful at doing everything including cooking as she'd had servants her whole life, learns to thrive.
Weston was pretty stern and went a bit overboard at times, but in his mind, Mina was doing things that put her in danger. And honestly, Mina was a little dim and did sometimes do some not so bright things. Then there was all the gruelling and awful things that could happen with life on a wagon train, and mysterious things kept happening so that people thought Mina was purposely ruining their food and laundry, and Weston blamed her for very important tools going missing. Wes had to learn to trust his wife and not overreact, and Mina had to learn to survive away from the leisurely life she'd led.
Overall, this was fun and easy to read. The writing certainly brought it down with the grammar and twenty-first century speech patterns in parts, and I did find Wes a little too much, especially in the very beginning. That being said, if you want a quick wagon train romance and you don't mind spanking, give this a try.
July 13, 2015
Anything Maddie Taylor writes, I read. Period. She is absolutely in my top 5 list of authors which is really saying something considering the amount of books I read. If you haven't read her books before then what are you waiting for? Start here. This book has a great plot that is written with so much description and detail I had no problem envisioning this dusty, covered wagon trail ride or the characters on the trip. Wes, a smoking hot trail master, and Mina, a sassy spitfire, meet and the sparks begin to fly. Their journey is full of danger and twists but oh man, did I enjoy the ride. Another clear winner my Ms. Taylor! I received this book from Stormy Night Publications as an Advanced Reader Copy.
September 9, 2022
It started off interesting- but everything just happened to quickly. What should have been an epic journey was not and felt more like a summary. No depth to the characters and no real feeling.
The epilogue was also such a let down.
The epilogue was also such a let down.
September 14, 2022
A simply wonderful read, great characters and a wonderfully captivating story
This was a simply wonderful read I thoroughly enjoyed every single moment of this amazing book and I have to say that it was impossible to put this book down until the you reach the final page and discover the outcome, I assure you that you will not be disappointed.
Mina’s stepmother is an evil woman who married the man off to a man twice his age, Mina hates her new husband Weston is the captain of the wagon train that Mina and the new husband are driving crazy with their noisy, constant bickering.
It is obvious that through no fault of her own she has been forced into an untenable situation which is not at all her fault but she will not simply go willingly like a meek mouse. Then as with many that travelled by wagon train in those times some died from illness, Indian’s and many other unforeseen reasons and she still seemed to meet vindictive attitude of the other females within the wagon train.
Weston was a good strong, honest man that wanted to see the members of his wagon train get to their destination as quickly and health as possible, unfortunately this is not always possible but he will never have any one question his abilities.
I assure you that you will love every moment of this book it is simply a fantastic read.
I voluntarily received and review an Advanced Reader Copy
I thoroughly enjoyed the book and look forward to reading any future publications; keep up all the great writing.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This was a simply wonderful read I thoroughly enjoyed every single moment of this amazing book and I have to say that it was impossible to put this book down until the you reach the final page and discover the outcome, I assure you that you will not be disappointed.
Mina’s stepmother is an evil woman who married the man off to a man twice his age, Mina hates her new husband Weston is the captain of the wagon train that Mina and the new husband are driving crazy with their noisy, constant bickering.
It is obvious that through no fault of her own she has been forced into an untenable situation which is not at all her fault but she will not simply go willingly like a meek mouse. Then as with many that travelled by wagon train in those times some died from illness, Indian’s and many other unforeseen reasons and she still seemed to meet vindictive attitude of the other females within the wagon train.
Weston was a good strong, honest man that wanted to see the members of his wagon train get to their destination as quickly and health as possible, unfortunately this is not always possible but he will never have any one question his abilities.
I assure you that you will love every moment of this book it is simply a fantastic read.
I voluntarily received and review an Advanced Reader Copy
I thoroughly enjoyed the book and look forward to reading any future publications; keep up all the great writing.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 24, 2023
The Trail Master's Bride
By: Maddie Taylor
Narrated by: Sadie Provost
Amazing Historical With Heart, Heat, Humor and Surprises!
Overall: 5 of 5 stars Performance: 5 of 5 stars Story: 5 of 5 stars
Reviewed: 08-24-23
Not your ordinary Historical Romance, “The Trail Master’s Bride” delivers on so many levels! Part mystery, part historical romance with a healthy helping of drama, nail biting suspense, and a delightfully delicious level of heat that was right up this listener’s alley, this beautifully narrated gem was pure pleasure from beginning to end! The plot was interesting and held more than a few surprises! Set in the wagon train days of early Americana, “The Trail Master’s Bride” really delivers on historically accurate drama! I was not only entertained, but I felt as if I learned a few things in a most enjoyable manner! The plot really had it all! The characters are not only true to that era, they are beautifully defined and developed as well! I don’t want to engage in spoilers but I can say that as in life, some were divine, some despicable, and with some, the jury is still out! The narration that brought this magnificent story ALIVE, truly breathing LIFE into these unbelievably human characters was dynamic, entertaining, emotional, engaging and SPECTACULAR! I tore through this story in two sittings. I could not stop listening! I loved it, I loved everything about it, the plot, the premise, the heat, the humor, the characters, the dialogue, the narration, the resolution, EVERYTHING! Five solid, amazing stars! Don’t pass this one up!
By: Maddie Taylor
Narrated by: Sadie Provost
Amazing Historical With Heart, Heat, Humor and Surprises!
Overall: 5 of 5 stars Performance: 5 of 5 stars Story: 5 of 5 stars
Reviewed: 08-24-23
Not your ordinary Historical Romance, “The Trail Master’s Bride” delivers on so many levels! Part mystery, part historical romance with a healthy helping of drama, nail biting suspense, and a delightfully delicious level of heat that was right up this listener’s alley, this beautifully narrated gem was pure pleasure from beginning to end! The plot was interesting and held more than a few surprises! Set in the wagon train days of early Americana, “The Trail Master’s Bride” really delivers on historically accurate drama! I was not only entertained, but I felt as if I learned a few things in a most enjoyable manner! The plot really had it all! The characters are not only true to that era, they are beautifully defined and developed as well! I don’t want to engage in spoilers but I can say that as in life, some were divine, some despicable, and with some, the jury is still out! The narration that brought this magnificent story ALIVE, truly breathing LIFE into these unbelievably human characters was dynamic, entertaining, emotional, engaging and SPECTACULAR! I tore through this story in two sittings. I could not stop listening! I loved it, I loved everything about it, the plot, the premise, the heat, the humor, the characters, the dialogue, the narration, the resolution, EVERYTHING! Five solid, amazing stars! Don’t pass this one up!
September 16, 2017
Wagon trains, sexy take charge men, and spankings are just a few of the things you get in this short but engrossing story by Maddie Taylor.
Aramina Hobart is a feisty woman who is forced to marry a hateful man she doesn't want and sets off on a wagon train train. As a city girl she finds herself floundering without a clue how to do what is expected of a wife in this new environment. There are lots of stumbling blocks on her way to happiness but as a strong woman and with the help of the dominant trail master Weston Carr she powers on.
I LOVE Mina and Wes! Mina is an opinionated and determined woman not one of those stupid ninny's we so often get with these types of stories. As for Wes he is so endearing. I love that he isn't too perfect and he makes mistakes, and when he does he owns up to them and doesn't just brush things off. That doesn't mean I didn't want to knock him upside the head a time or two though.
This is a story of finding love even in the most unlikely of places. A must read!
Aramina Hobart is a feisty woman who is forced to marry a hateful man she doesn't want and sets off on a wagon train train. As a city girl she finds herself floundering without a clue how to do what is expected of a wife in this new environment. There are lots of stumbling blocks on her way to happiness but as a strong woman and with the help of the dominant trail master Weston Carr she powers on.
I LOVE Mina and Wes! Mina is an opinionated and determined woman not one of those stupid ninny's we so often get with these types of stories. As for Wes he is so endearing. I love that he isn't too perfect and he makes mistakes, and when he does he owns up to them and doesn't just brush things off. That doesn't mean I didn't want to knock him upside the head a time or two though.
This is a story of finding love even in the most unlikely of places. A must read!
September 18, 2022
Mina is from Boston. Her father was very distant with no love shown to any of his children. His recent marriage brought the stepmom in and she wanted Mina gone. Dad arranged a marriage, settled a sum of money with Elliott to marry her and get her out of his house. This money bought land in Oregon and financed the trip. In those days women couldn't own property or have money. This young lady who had servants to do everything, was thrown into months of travel across our country. Eliott died when smallpox spread through the wagon train. She had to marry the wagon master. Throughout their travels there was danger, mystery, hateful anger, theft, exploring a new land as well as a new marriage and lack of trust. That Weston, the Trail Master, did not trust his wife when she proclaimed her innocence, was so very hurtful. But another man was so bad, I wished her aim with the gun had been better. A well written tale with in-depth locations along the trail and great character development.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 20, 2023
Good story
I enjoyed Mina and Weston’s marriage of convenience with a side of suspicion. It was a good mix of sweet, steamy, and real life issues. Mina was raised as a city girl in Boston. When her new stepmother wants to marry her off, she finds herself in an arranged marriage to Elliott, a man twice her age and on a wagon train to Oregon. The beginning of the trip is miserable with the newly married couple at odds constantly and then things become even more tenuous when her husband dies. To save her reputation and appease the rest of the members of the wagon train, Mina marries Weston, the trail master. But the rest of the journey is far from easy. The story was well written and included witty dialogue, characters with some dimension, and a fairly engaging storyline as shown through sweet moments, steam, chuckles, supportive friends, messy families, painful pasts, plot twists, and love. I would have given the story a higher rating but there were a number of distracting editing and consistency errors which distracted from the story.
I enjoyed Mina and Weston’s marriage of convenience with a side of suspicion. It was a good mix of sweet, steamy, and real life issues. Mina was raised as a city girl in Boston. When her new stepmother wants to marry her off, she finds herself in an arranged marriage to Elliott, a man twice her age and on a wagon train to Oregon. The beginning of the trip is miserable with the newly married couple at odds constantly and then things become even more tenuous when her husband dies. To save her reputation and appease the rest of the members of the wagon train, Mina marries Weston, the trail master. But the rest of the journey is far from easy. The story was well written and included witty dialogue, characters with some dimension, and a fairly engaging storyline as shown through sweet moments, steam, chuckles, supportive friends, messy families, painful pasts, plot twists, and love. I would have given the story a higher rating but there were a number of distracting editing and consistency errors which distracted from the story.
September 5, 2023
I have not really read (or listened to) a lot of historical romance recently so, this book was a change of pace for me. I found Sadie Provost easy to listen to, I liked the tone and cadence of her voice. My only criticism of the recording is that I would have preferred a duel narration, sometimes when Sadie performed the male characters it took me out of the story a little because I am used to 2 narrators, but that is personal preference and is not a negative critique of this recording.
I really enjoyed the story, I am not going to lie I was pretty happy when Mina's husband died. He was terrible. West and Mina had chemistry from the beginning, even before her husband passed away. At first I was appalled by how Mina was treated by the other people on the wagon train, I had to remind myself that this was a very different time. I was genuinely surprised by the villains motivation, even though I figured out who was behind the mishaps, I can honestly say I did not see that coming.
I really enjoyed the story, I am not going to lie I was pretty happy when Mina's husband died. He was terrible. West and Mina had chemistry from the beginning, even before her husband passed away. At first I was appalled by how Mina was treated by the other people on the wagon train, I had to remind myself that this was a very different time. I was genuinely surprised by the villains motivation, even though I figured out who was behind the mishaps, I can honestly say I did not see that coming.
September 10, 2022
I loved this story by Maddie Taylor. I didn't want it to end. I loved the interactions between Mina and Weston. I couldn't wait to see what happened next for them.
Mina is set to travel across America in a wagon train to the Oregon Territory with a husband that her new stepmom selected for her. She is not cut out for it and everyone including the trail master knows it. Her husband and her are not getting along. When he dies unexpectedly, she has nowhere to go but onto the Oregon Territory. Weston has no choice but to take her under his command. They start off rough before coming to an agreement. When they have to marry to ease the rest of the train, they discover a connection. Will they make it to the Oregon Territory in one piece?
Mina is set to travel across America in a wagon train to the Oregon Territory with a husband that her new stepmom selected for her. She is not cut out for it and everyone including the trail master knows it. Her husband and her are not getting along. When he dies unexpectedly, she has nowhere to go but onto the Oregon Territory. Weston has no choice but to take her under his command. They start off rough before coming to an agreement. When they have to marry to ease the rest of the train, they discover a connection. Will they make it to the Oregon Territory in one piece?
September 11, 2022
Good little book highlighting difficulties of pioneer travel.
I enjoyed this story but felt so sorry for Mina who had such an unloving father and was married off to a man who also didn't care for her and was downright antagonistic all the time. I don't know why a previous reviewer labeled this as extremely homophobic. The bad guy who was exposed toward the end was just a mean, spiteful person regardless of any sexual orientation which was revealed only during the kidnap scene. It was heartwarming that Mina was able to meet her match and get a happy ending after her family situation and first marriage.
I enjoyed this story but felt so sorry for Mina who had such an unloving father and was married off to a man who also didn't care for her and was downright antagonistic all the time. I don't know why a previous reviewer labeled this as extremely homophobic. The bad guy who was exposed toward the end was just a mean, spiteful person regardless of any sexual orientation which was revealed only during the kidnap scene. It was heartwarming that Mina was able to meet her match and get a happy ending after her family situation and first marriage.
September 19, 2022
There is an inherent romance about the 'wild west' and the idea of settlers going west for a new beginning and a new life. This story is very entertaining but also doesn't sugar coat what would have been a very hard and difficult journey for anyone to make. At no time does it make the journey sound like it was easy and fun, but it also highlights how a strong relationship was necessary for the journey to be a success. I enjoyed this story and loved the way that Mina and Wes found strength in each other, and that Mina was able to bring our Wes' fun side, even if it was only with her. This is an easy to read, entertaining read.
September 16, 2023
Brilliant narration from Shannon Nicole Locke. You can hear the humour, angst and heat. Perfect for this book.
Mina, finds herself on a wagon train with her ill-matched husband. A husband that she was forced to marry. He is cruel and finds fault in every thing she does. Mina is a city girl, who struggles with the basics but also her older meaner husband. The only think is the trail master is very easy on the eye. Mina's husband succumbs to illness on the trip and she's free. But because of the gossip, Mina ends up married to the Trail Master, Weston. Wes wants a true marriage and these two are well matched. Though he does discipline her when needed.
Mina, finds herself on a wagon train with her ill-matched husband. A husband that she was forced to marry. He is cruel and finds fault in every thing she does. Mina is a city girl, who struggles with the basics but also her older meaner husband. The only think is the trail master is very easy on the eye. Mina's husband succumbs to illness on the trip and she's free. But because of the gossip, Mina ends up married to the Trail Master, Weston. Wes wants a true marriage and these two are well matched. Though he does discipline her when needed.
March 4, 2024
It’s probably not very a PC opinion but I enjoyed this book. 😜 The hero had a firm sense of right and wrong and expected people to follow his lead. He was strong, capable, but also caring and patient. The heroine was a bit of a wayward woman/child and benefitted from his leadership. She definitely acted spoiled and had a terrible temper which the hero helped curb. This couple’s dynamic probably only worked b/c the book is set in the 1800s on the Oregon trail. I am a very forward, thinking, Progressive woman, but I do find a strong competent man who takes care of his woman/family to be super hot. Just because a woman is capable of doing everything on her own doesn’t mean she wants to lol.
September 16, 2022
Well written but sometimes to much balderdash
With actual physical violence spankings it was uncomfortable for me to read. 30 hard swats to ones bottom in my personal experience difficult to move much after or even several days later. Very uncomfortable for me to grasp why it was needed. Domestic violence was wide spread and our family history is riddled with whisper stories. Generations experience this dreadful secret hidden abuses and usually the sex afterwards was uncomfortable emotions to endure.
With actual physical violence spankings it was uncomfortable for me to read. 30 hard swats to ones bottom in my personal experience difficult to move much after or even several days later. Very uncomfortable for me to grasp why it was needed. Domestic violence was wide spread and our family history is riddled with whisper stories. Generations experience this dreadful secret hidden abuses and usually the sex afterwards was uncomfortable emotions to endure.
September 10, 2022
Maddie Taylor’s words are so evocative that the reader almost feels as if they are part of the trail ride experiencing all the trials and difficult conditions that the characters are experiencing. Not only that, the misery that Mina felt at the beginning of the story is almost palpable and then Wes takes over and the mood shifts. This is a wonderful love story full of excitement, romance,, great characters, spankings and love, a treat to read.
October 21, 2022
WTH
I did not understand or like the masochistic relationship and normalizing husbands spanking (abusing) their wives, even back then. Abuse is abuse and a wife is a partner, not a child to be disiplined. The author disrespects all women by characterizing a woman in such a ridiculous submissive role who enjoyed and then forgave so easily. The story would have been better without the "lessons". Maybe she needs 30 licks?
I did not understand or like the masochistic relationship and normalizing husbands spanking (abusing) their wives, even back then. Abuse is abuse and a wife is a partner, not a child to be disiplined. The author disrespects all women by characterizing a woman in such a ridiculous submissive role who enjoyed and then forgave so easily. The story would have been better without the "lessons". Maybe she needs 30 licks?
October 14, 2017
Interesting historical domestic discipline romance.
Following Wes and Mina along the dusty trail as the travel west to Oregon. Mina originally begins the journey married to another. Circumstances along the trail cause Wes and Mina to end up together.
Mysterious circumstances begin to occur and secrets are revealed. Great detail regarding life and travel during that period of time.
Following Wes and Mina along the dusty trail as the travel west to Oregon. Mina originally begins the journey married to another. Circumstances along the trail cause Wes and Mina to end up together.
Mysterious circumstances begin to occur and secrets are revealed. Great detail regarding life and travel during that period of time.
February 17, 2022
Fantastic story
I loved this book. I fell in love with all the main characters Weston and Mina were a fun loving couple that you were hoping every thing would work out for them in the end. If you love a story where you can feel like your part of the book then this book is for you.
I loved this book. I fell in love with all the main characters Weston and Mina were a fun loving couple that you were hoping every thing would work out for them in the end. If you love a story where you can feel like your part of the book then this book is for you.
September 12, 2022
The men and women who took their families and belongings and went on these trails were brave. Leaving everything behind to ago to a new place not knowing what to find there.
This is one of Maddie Taylor earlier books and she evolved as a writer. It is not a bad book but not great either. The character's and the events are a bit flat and go fast. But it is a fun read.
This is one of Maddie Taylor earlier books and she evolved as a writer. It is not a bad book but not great either. The character's and the events are a bit flat and go fast. But it is a fun read.
September 28, 2022
My first book by this author and my first western historical story.
I didn't know what to expect about Minas and Wes story on the Origon Trail, but I really enjoyed reading this book.
Minas not so pleasant childhood, then she got married with a man who doesn't even like her. Until they are on the trail to Oregon. Then all the action, drama, but also lovely and funny parts begin.
I didn't know what to expect about Minas and Wes story on the Origon Trail, but I really enjoyed reading this book.
Minas not so pleasant childhood, then she got married with a man who doesn't even like her. Until they are on the trail to Oregon. Then all the action, drama, but also lovely and funny parts begin.
September 29, 2022
I thought this was a good read and I enjoyed it. When Mina starts her trip on the wagon train she’s married and her husband is horrid, but soon she’s finds herself a widow and then enters Weston, caption of the wagon train. I liked Weston and Mina and they had great sparks and chemistry. Overall, an enjoyable read with lots of drama, action, twists, and heat.
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