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Hot on the Trail #6
Trail of Redemption
Estelle Ripley is not who she says she is. Running from the past she’s left behind on a Georgia plantation, she’s taken a job in a wagon train heading to new horizons along the Oregon Trail. If she can just keep her head down, do her job, and keep any of her new friends from discovering her secret, she’ll be fine. After all, people don’t ask questions on the frontier.
But Estelle didn’t count on a shadowy figure from her past coming along on the journey, and she most certainly did not plan to fall head-over-heels in love.
Graham Tremaine’s only reason for heading west is to deliver his sister Lynne’s belongings to her new home in Denver. The Civil War has left him with more scars than his missing leg. Convinced he is now only half a man, wounded and with no future, he fights hard not to fall in love with the dark and mysterious Estelle. It’s a losing battle, and as his passion for Estelle flares, so does his desire to protect her. But how can he fight her battles when she keeps so many secrets from him? And what kind of a life can a man who has lost himself provide?
Love is a journey that proves the heart has no limitations…
Please Be Advised - Steam Level: HOT
But Estelle didn’t count on a shadowy figure from her past coming along on the journey, and she most certainly did not plan to fall head-over-heels in love.
Graham Tremaine’s only reason for heading west is to deliver his sister Lynne’s belongings to her new home in Denver. The Civil War has left him with more scars than his missing leg. Convinced he is now only half a man, wounded and with no future, he fights hard not to fall in love with the dark and mysterious Estelle. It’s a losing battle, and as his passion for Estelle flares, so does his desire to protect her. But how can he fight her battles when she keeps so many secrets from him? And what kind of a life can a man who has lost himself provide?
Love is a journey that proves the heart has no limitations…
Please Be Advised - Steam Level: HOT
222 pages, Paperback
First published June 24, 2015
67 people are currently reading
920 people want to read
About the author
Merry Farmer
295 books1,142 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 61 reviews
April 17, 2018
Just ok
There were a lot of frustrating parts and a missed opportunity for a true love story. What I especially disliked with this story was how the male lead never truly took up for the female lead. He was weak and she had to be the strong one and that drove me nuts.
There were a lot of frustrating parts and a missed opportunity for a true love story. What I especially disliked with this story was how the male lead never truly took up for the female lead. He was weak and she had to be the strong one and that drove me nuts.
August 5, 2016
This was just a little to simple, sweet, convenient, predictable, unrealistic and whitewashed. The writing and tone was also a little juvenile. I just didn't care for it.
June 26, 2015
This is book 6 in Merry Farmer's Hot on the Trail Series. Her stories just keep getting better and better. Wagon master, Pete Evans takes one more wagon train west. On this last trip you will meet some unforgettable characters. Among them a Lt. from the war and a southern belle. Or is she? Estelle has a big secret she is trying to keep. But someone from her past doesn't want her to have a "Happily ever after". He threatens to tell everyone her secret unless she agrees to marry him. But the beautiful Estelle loves only one man...Graham. Lt. Graham Tremaine has lost much in the war, including his leg. He doesn't feel as though he has a right to marry. After all, how can he provide for a family?
You will be drawn into this book and feel as though you are riding along on the wagon train. Merry Farmer gives such depth to her characters. You will feel as though they are friends. You find yourself routing for the "good guys" and cursing the "bad guys". And there are a couple of bad guys in this story.
The author gives us glimpses into the lives of secondary characters, who will have their own stories told, in due time. I only wish this author wrote faster! LOL! I am eagerly awaiting more of this series!
You will be drawn into this book and feel as though you are riding along on the wagon train. Merry Farmer gives such depth to her characters. You will feel as though they are friends. You find yourself routing for the "good guys" and cursing the "bad guys". And there are a couple of bad guys in this story.
The author gives us glimpses into the lives of secondary characters, who will have their own stories told, in due time. I only wish this author wrote faster! LOL! I am eagerly awaiting more of this series!
June 27, 2015
First off I recieved this ARC for my honest review.
I love the series. Merry farmer always gives great descriptions of all the charachters. 1st anc secondary characherters. This one I think I feel a little closer too just because the main character Estelle is from a great plantation home in Georgia I'm from Georgia. anyway. This book u can read it as a stand alone or read in the series. I say read it in the series just because you get so caught up with the charachters.
Estelle leaves her families plantation in Georgia to go to work on the wagon train on the way to Oregon trail. I loved the whole w wa gon train experience. Then there is Graham a soldier from war. she sees the good in him not by and doesn't condeem him because he is missing a leg. They weigned up helping take carr of 1 of the orphans on the trail named Tom.
I loved the book it was a great book. It hows that love is real and will win out in the end.No matter the circumstances. There was a charachter whom I totally disliked. I have to get re-equited with the previous books. I cant wait for the next in the series. Im grateful I was able to read this one. well worth the read.
I love the series. Merry farmer always gives great descriptions of all the charachters. 1st anc secondary characherters. This one I think I feel a little closer too just because the main character Estelle is from a great plantation home in Georgia I'm from Georgia. anyway. This book u can read it as a stand alone or read in the series. I say read it in the series just because you get so caught up with the charachters.
Estelle leaves her families plantation in Georgia to go to work on the wagon train on the way to Oregon trail. I loved the whole w wa gon train experience. Then there is Graham a soldier from war. she sees the good in him not by and doesn't condeem him because he is missing a leg. They weigned up helping take carr of 1 of the orphans on the trail named Tom.
I loved the book it was a great book. It hows that love is real and will win out in the end.No matter the circumstances. There was a charachter whom I totally disliked. I have to get re-equited with the previous books. I cant wait for the next in the series. Im grateful I was able to read this one. well worth the read.
June 26, 2015
I was given an ARC for an honest review of this book.
I have read several of the books in this series and have enjoyed all of them. This book starts a new wagon trip to Oregon. There will be 2 more books in this particular trip.
The book was very easy to read and kept my attention. Something was always happening. I would highly recommend it.
I have read several of the books in this series and have enjoyed all of them. This book starts a new wagon trip to Oregon. There will be 2 more books in this particular trip.
The book was very easy to read and kept my attention. Something was always happening. I would highly recommend it.
June 16, 2020
This is an OK Western romance novella, but I had a difficult time believing Estelle could ever pass as white. Extreme racism was still very common in that time period, and very few people would have accepted that Estelle could marry a white man or adopt a white child. Estelle, Graham, and Tim would probably have been ostracized and perhaps even suffered violent abuse by racist groups. (Sad to say, racism is still a big problem today ...).
I liked both Estelle and Graham, and thought they were good together -- but I just didn't buy that they would have been free to marry and adopt Tim. They would have continued to suffer all kinds of abuse (and possibly violence), as long as they stayed together. It is unlikely that Graham would have ever been able to start a successful business, or that Estelle would have been accepted by his family and friends.
I liked little Tim a lot, and enjoyed that Estelle and Graham both loved him almost immediately.
If you can get past the fact that their romance just wasn't very believable for that time period, you might enjoy this story. It gets 3 stars from me.
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.
I liked both Estelle and Graham, and thought they were good together -- but I just didn't buy that they would have been free to marry and adopt Tim. They would have continued to suffer all kinds of abuse (and possibly violence), as long as they stayed together. It is unlikely that Graham would have ever been able to start a successful business, or that Estelle would have been accepted by his family and friends.
I liked little Tim a lot, and enjoyed that Estelle and Graham both loved him almost immediately.
If you can get past the fact that their romance just wasn't very believable for that time period, you might enjoy this story. It gets 3 stars from me.
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, 2020
2.25 Stars. (BW/WM). Audible audiobook read by Dawnya Clarine in the most flat monotone that I have heard. Period piece. Racial. I've owned this book for over two years and have found it hard to read due to the poor narration coupled with the author's Pollyanna-ish unrealistic depiction of how interracial relationships were perceived during this period. The heroine, Estelle Ripley, has been hired as the cook for this Oregon Trail convoy from the deep south; but unbeknownst to all except one of the former male slaves, Estelle is passing for white and is the daughter of a plantation owner and his house slave. The hero, Lt. Graham Tremaine, is a former Union soldier who lost his leg in the war and who suffers with feelings of inadequacy; but is determined, to take his sister's belongings to her in Denver. Estelle and Graham have an immediate attraction which they suppress because of her secret and his insecurities about his amputated leg; until their change at togetherness is threatened by the antagonist, who was a former slave on the same plantation as Estelle. Over the course of a long slow moving unrealistic storyline, Estelle and Graham get their happy ending.
May 10, 2023
Tail of Redemption (Hot on the Trail Book 6)
The story of Estelle and Graham. Estelle is the daughter of a plantation owner and she holds a secret. Graham is a former Union soldier and he lost one leg in the war. Tom is a young boy who mother die on the tail and he is now an orphan. Estelle and Graham want him. When her secret is learn will she and Graham lost Tom? Great story.
The story of Estelle and Graham. Estelle is the daughter of a plantation owner and she holds a secret. Graham is a former Union soldier and he lost one leg in the war. Tom is a young boy who mother die on the tail and he is now an orphan. Estelle and Graham want him. When her secret is learn will she and Graham lost Tom? Great story.
June 25, 2020
I really liked this book! It was well written, well plotted and with lovable characters. The love was slow burning.
Would definitely recommend!
Would definitely recommend!
May 2, 2022
Nice book…. Recommened.
February 22, 2021
Nicely told tale
I found the hero and heroine people I wanted to believe in and root for them to succeed. The foils were dastardly enough to keep you entertained. This book was reminiscent of old western romances from my teen years and I enjoyed it and appreciated the diversity the author have especially to the heroine and hero.
I found the hero and heroine people I wanted to believe in and root for them to succeed. The foils were dastardly enough to keep you entertained. This book was reminiscent of old western romances from my teen years and I enjoyed it and appreciated the diversity the author have especially to the heroine and hero.
June 28, 2015
We’re back on Peter Evan’s wagon trail heading from east to west. Only this is the next year after books 1-5. As a matter of fact Lynne Tremaine from book one is Lt. Graham Tremaine’s sister. We meet Graham in this book. He’s headed west to take his sister her household goods. And while on the trail, he meets Estelle Ripley. Estelle is a hardworking southern woman, just trying to make her place out West like everyone else. The only difference is, she’s trying to completely erase her past. Which might seem fairly easy going out west, where no one knows you. But unlike others who are running from something hidden or some deed done. Her past is plain for all to see, if she’d let them.
Graham is a union soldier veteran. He’s found himself out of the war but he lost his leg in the process. And others judge him too weak to accomplish simple tasks and he’s beginning to feel that maybe everyone is right. But Estelle….she sees the man for who he really is and what he’s truly capable of. And Graham falls in love with her spirit and her courage. And she falls in love with his strength and kindness. But things have a way of coming full circle and these things will test them both and their fears of the love of the other.
This book offers an entire new group of characters, many of which I already love as much as the past set. I LOVE Josephine. She’s funny. And I’m dying to know about what happened in Olivia and Charles’ story. (Ms. Farmer’s already promised that will be coming, when I’m not sure, but they do have a story!) So, this promises to be a VERY wonderful continuation of the story line.
Ms. Farmer produces gem after gem. How she can do it baffles me, but I’m oh so glad that she can. This story is a break from traditional, but not beyond the realm of what could have been. She’s able to continue with this same environment without become cliche or boring and all the stories weave in and out of each other and gently touch on one another without requiring the other books to feel as though you get the whole story. BUT it definitely whets your appetite for the other stories. So would I recommend...(https://textuallove.wordpress.com/201... the rest of the review behind the link.
Graham is a union soldier veteran. He’s found himself out of the war but he lost his leg in the process. And others judge him too weak to accomplish simple tasks and he’s beginning to feel that maybe everyone is right. But Estelle….she sees the man for who he really is and what he’s truly capable of. And Graham falls in love with her spirit and her courage. And she falls in love with his strength and kindness. But things have a way of coming full circle and these things will test them both and their fears of the love of the other.
This book offers an entire new group of characters, many of which I already love as much as the past set. I LOVE Josephine. She’s funny. And I’m dying to know about what happened in Olivia and Charles’ story. (Ms. Farmer’s already promised that will be coming, when I’m not sure, but they do have a story!) So, this promises to be a VERY wonderful continuation of the story line.
Ms. Farmer produces gem after gem. How she can do it baffles me, but I’m oh so glad that she can. This story is a break from traditional, but not beyond the realm of what could have been. She’s able to continue with this same environment without become cliche or boring and all the stories weave in and out of each other and gently touch on one another without requiring the other books to feel as though you get the whole story. BUT it definitely whets your appetite for the other stories. So would I recommend...(https://textuallove.wordpress.com/201... the rest of the review behind the link.
June 28, 2015
This latest installment of Merry Farmer's Hot on the Trail series introduces a whole set of new characters, with the trail boss, Pete Evans taking a new wagon train of people West once again. Many of these characters are connected to those met in the first five books in some manner. In this case, our hero, Lt. Graham Tremaine, is the brother of the first book's heroine, Lynn. Graham is an amputee, having lost a portion of his leg in the war. He is taking his sister's belongings to her and he refuses to let his injury dictate his activities.
Estelle Ripley is the heroine in this book and her 'secret' is easily guessed from the first page. She is seeking to go West to hide from her past and to start over, something she couldn't do did she remain in the South. She has hired on as the cook for the wagon train in exchange for passage to Oregon. She is drawn to Graham just as he is drawn to her.
What book wouldn't be complete without a cast of secondary characters or villains? Some of these secondary characters are interesting and we will be seeing their stories in future releases of this series. Josephine is a particularly fun character and I hope that Lucy's story will be interesting. The villains are self-righteous or, in the case of one, a caricature, who knows Estelle's secret and is determined to ruin her since she will not marry him.
I wanted to enjoy this installment of the series, but found myself sighing and rolling my eyes as I read through it. Ms. Farmer's attempt to deal with prejudice and bigotry was flat at best and whitewashed the reality of the time period. While there were those that reacted in a period-typical manner, too many of the characters- especially those whose own stories will be related down the line - held opinions that seem atypical for the period. The happy ending that Estelle and Graham obtain is quite fantastical, but then Ms. Farmer has already demonstrated in her previous books that her characters exist in a rarefied environment, with vast wellsprings of tolerance.
3 stars because there are probably those who will like this even if it is not to my taste.
Estelle Ripley is the heroine in this book and her 'secret' is easily guessed from the first page. She is seeking to go West to hide from her past and to start over, something she couldn't do did she remain in the South. She has hired on as the cook for the wagon train in exchange for passage to Oregon. She is drawn to Graham just as he is drawn to her.
What book wouldn't be complete without a cast of secondary characters or villains? Some of these secondary characters are interesting and we will be seeing their stories in future releases of this series. Josephine is a particularly fun character and I hope that Lucy's story will be interesting. The villains are self-righteous or, in the case of one, a caricature, who knows Estelle's secret and is determined to ruin her since she will not marry him.
I wanted to enjoy this installment of the series, but found myself sighing and rolling my eyes as I read through it. Ms. Farmer's attempt to deal with prejudice and bigotry was flat at best and whitewashed the reality of the time period. While there were those that reacted in a period-typical manner, too many of the characters- especially those whose own stories will be related down the line - held opinions that seem atypical for the period. The happy ending that Estelle and Graham obtain is quite fantastical, but then Ms. Farmer has already demonstrated in her previous books that her characters exist in a rarefied environment, with vast wellsprings of tolerance.
3 stars because there are probably those who will like this even if it is not to my taste.
September 2, 2015
I was excited to see this, I am on a deep early American kick and I recognize this is a difficult era to write about and include happy Black Americans, I get it, I do, I do. I loved the heroine Estelle, she was leaving behind her family and life as she knew it. How bad or great it was did not matter, we are talking the end of an era. She was from Georgia the daughter of a plantation owner and slave but that was just her back-story. The author did not harp on the bad, although there were some stuff that made me say what the fukery (you’ll should see my notes). This was more of a look toward the future tale which I liked.
The hero Graham started out as this guy who had this phobia due to his disability which caused him to not want to deal with anyone. He could not help the fact he was drawn to Estelle, little Miss Happy. He was a good upstanding guy who was not thrown off by the fact that she was not white, once he found out she was passing and he might lose out on his new career possibilities. He had no idea what he would do with himself but he started to look forward to a new future even though dark characters casted doubt on the things he could do with a woman of color on his arms. But dude did not care and I loved that.
The bad…okay, we poc have all watched movies or read books growing up and whenever there is the possibility of death or bad guys and that one black person shows up we chant the mantra. You know…Please don’t let the black guy/girl die, please don’t let the black guy/girl be the bad guy. Well you know there where two black people in this book, you know the heroine was black so would I be spoiling anything to tell you who the bad guy was. It was such a cliché but then I had to look at it from the author’s point of view and for her it might not have been a cliché.
The steam level per the book description is hot and that is crazy, this is safe to read on a long car ride sitting beside your Granny, you will not get over heated.
The hero Graham started out as this guy who had this phobia due to his disability which caused him to not want to deal with anyone. He could not help the fact he was drawn to Estelle, little Miss Happy. He was a good upstanding guy who was not thrown off by the fact that she was not white, once he found out she was passing and he might lose out on his new career possibilities. He had no idea what he would do with himself but he started to look forward to a new future even though dark characters casted doubt on the things he could do with a woman of color on his arms. But dude did not care and I loved that.
The bad…okay, we poc have all watched movies or read books growing up and whenever there is the possibility of death or bad guys and that one black person shows up we chant the mantra. You know…Please don’t let the black guy/girl die, please don’t let the black guy/girl be the bad guy. Well you know there where two black people in this book, you know the heroine was black so would I be spoiling anything to tell you who the bad guy was. It was such a cliché but then I had to look at it from the author’s point of view and for her it might not have been a cliché.
The steam level per the book description is hot and that is crazy, this is safe to read on a long car ride sitting beside your Granny, you will not get over heated.
June 26, 2015
***I received this as an ARC for my honest review***
I love this book. This series is one of the best that I have ever read! Merry never disappoints with the Hot on the Trail books.
Trail of Redemption is the 6th book within this series. Estelle has a secret to hide but soon realizes that it isn't going to be as easy as she thought. She meets a LT from the war, Graham. Instantly she is drawn to him and she doesn't care that he is missing a leg. She sees the good in him and wants to know more about him. He feels the same way about her as well.
They start to spend time together and when the lady responsible for taking care of the orphans dies, Estelle and Graham take on one of their own, Tom.
Isaiah is the biggest a**hole. Sorry for the wording, but he is. He is trying to stop Estelle from her happiness to gain everything for himself. I wont go into all the details because I don't want to give anything away. However, once you read this book, you will be able to piece it all together and most likely agree, he's a jerk.
This story has amazing main characters as well as supporting characters. This story tells you about how love can and will overcome anything. Estelle and Graham found what was the most important within each other and support each other no matter what. They both help one another overcome what their biggest fears are and stick by each other. Although, Estelle believes that he would be better off without her. He reminds her that he loves her and that no matter what, that was never going to change.
It really is a wonderful story that is written extremely well. This is by far, my favorite in the series after the very first book. I can not wait for the next book.
You will no regret reading this book or the rest of the series.
This can be read as a stand alone novel.
I love this book. This series is one of the best that I have ever read! Merry never disappoints with the Hot on the Trail books.
Trail of Redemption is the 6th book within this series. Estelle has a secret to hide but soon realizes that it isn't going to be as easy as she thought. She meets a LT from the war, Graham. Instantly she is drawn to him and she doesn't care that he is missing a leg. She sees the good in him and wants to know more about him. He feels the same way about her as well.
They start to spend time together and when the lady responsible for taking care of the orphans dies, Estelle and Graham take on one of their own, Tom.
Isaiah is the biggest a**hole. Sorry for the wording, but he is. He is trying to stop Estelle from her happiness to gain everything for himself. I wont go into all the details because I don't want to give anything away. However, once you read this book, you will be able to piece it all together and most likely agree, he's a jerk.
This story has amazing main characters as well as supporting characters. This story tells you about how love can and will overcome anything. Estelle and Graham found what was the most important within each other and support each other no matter what. They both help one another overcome what their biggest fears are and stick by each other. Although, Estelle believes that he would be better off without her. He reminds her that he loves her and that no matter what, that was never going to change.
It really is a wonderful story that is written extremely well. This is by far, my favorite in the series after the very first book. I can not wait for the next book.
You will no regret reading this book or the rest of the series.
This can be read as a stand alone novel.
June 27, 2015
LOVE HAS NO LIMITATIONS
Another wonderful addition to the Hot on the Trail series. This book can read as a standalone, but the stories are so wonderful and full of details that make you feel like you are along for the ride. This is a new wagon train of travelers under trail boss, Pete Evens. Estelle Ripley has been hired on to take care of cooking and laundry for Pete and his trail hands in exchange for her passage to Oregon. Lt. Graham Tremaine is traveling to Denver City to take a wagon of heirlooms and personal belongings to his sister Lynne (that we met in book 1) and then he plans to return to St. Louis. Graham is a wounded man, not only by the loss of a leg, but of himself. But he is stubborn and determined to walk with his crutch and do as much as he can. Estelle is hiding secrets, just hoping to have a new life in the West, one without people judging her. Some of the interesting and challenging people on this wagon train include a wannabe blowhard politician, a troublemaking former slave, a ingenious inventor, a Daddy's girl who loves to throw around his name and a group of orphans. As with all wagon trains, deaths happen, illnesses, new romances, and always someone to cause trouble.
This story keeps the pages turning with interesting characters, entertaining dialog, mystery and suspense, several new love interest. It also has it angst, prejudice, accusations, and seeing people take a stand for what is right when someone is being done wrong. It does have some steamy moments with two people in love. I can't wait for the next book in this wonderful series. Each one is as unique as the characters in them. Disclosure: I received an e-copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts, opinions and ratings are my own.
Another wonderful addition to the Hot on the Trail series. This book can read as a standalone, but the stories are so wonderful and full of details that make you feel like you are along for the ride. This is a new wagon train of travelers under trail boss, Pete Evens. Estelle Ripley has been hired on to take care of cooking and laundry for Pete and his trail hands in exchange for her passage to Oregon. Lt. Graham Tremaine is traveling to Denver City to take a wagon of heirlooms and personal belongings to his sister Lynne (that we met in book 1) and then he plans to return to St. Louis. Graham is a wounded man, not only by the loss of a leg, but of himself. But he is stubborn and determined to walk with his crutch and do as much as he can. Estelle is hiding secrets, just hoping to have a new life in the West, one without people judging her. Some of the interesting and challenging people on this wagon train include a wannabe blowhard politician, a troublemaking former slave, a ingenious inventor, a Daddy's girl who loves to throw around his name and a group of orphans. As with all wagon trains, deaths happen, illnesses, new romances, and always someone to cause trouble.
This story keeps the pages turning with interesting characters, entertaining dialog, mystery and suspense, several new love interest. It also has it angst, prejudice, accusations, and seeing people take a stand for what is right when someone is being done wrong. It does have some steamy moments with two people in love. I can't wait for the next book in this wonderful series. Each one is as unique as the characters in them. Disclosure: I received an e-copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts, opinions and ratings are my own.
September 4, 2015
Trail of Redemption is book 6 in the Hot on the Trail series by Merry Farmer. It is a good book but the series is becoming a bit tiresome. I hope they hit Oregon soon. However, predictable the books are, they are still fun to read and easy to read. This book did break with the predictability.
Estelle Ripley joins Pete Evans and his wagon train in Independence, Missouri in 1865. She was a southerner from a southern plantation. She is trying to find her way as her father’s plantation was going under. She decided she was not destined for a brothel and headed west as cook for Pete and his men. She is a woman who loves to help people.
Miss Josephine Lewis is another woman on the train. She is in her forties and is an elegant woman but with a bawdy mouth. She is vastly independent and is determined from the onset to find a husband for Estelle and other single women on the wagon train.
Lucy Haswell is the daughter of Howard Haswell of Wyoming. She has spent the last few years in the East with her mother and now she is headed home. She could have gone with her Mother on the train but preferred the wagon train for adventure. She is looking forward to seeing her home and not seeking a marriage.
Olivia is a teacher on her way west and Mrs. Gravesend is taking a group of orphans west to new parents. She has little control over the children so Olivia and Estelle offer to help.
Graham Tremaine is on the wagon train to try to figure out what to do next. He was a former Union Calvary officer who had lost his leg, his horse, and his leg all in one accident.
Isiah Jones is a former slave from Estelle’s plantation. He knows her and can cause problems.
The plot twists and turns as it deals with all these characters.
Estelle Ripley joins Pete Evans and his wagon train in Independence, Missouri in 1865. She was a southerner from a southern plantation. She is trying to find her way as her father’s plantation was going under. She decided she was not destined for a brothel and headed west as cook for Pete and his men. She is a woman who loves to help people.
Miss Josephine Lewis is another woman on the train. She is in her forties and is an elegant woman but with a bawdy mouth. She is vastly independent and is determined from the onset to find a husband for Estelle and other single women on the wagon train.
Lucy Haswell is the daughter of Howard Haswell of Wyoming. She has spent the last few years in the East with her mother and now she is headed home. She could have gone with her Mother on the train but preferred the wagon train for adventure. She is looking forward to seeing her home and not seeking a marriage.
Olivia is a teacher on her way west and Mrs. Gravesend is taking a group of orphans west to new parents. She has little control over the children so Olivia and Estelle offer to help.
Graham Tremaine is on the wagon train to try to figure out what to do next. He was a former Union Calvary officer who had lost his leg, his horse, and his leg all in one accident.
Isiah Jones is a former slave from Estelle’s plantation. He knows her and can cause problems.
The plot twists and turns as it deals with all these characters.
September 8, 2015
LOVE HAS NO LIMITATIONS
Another wonderful addition to the Hot on the Trail series. This book can read as a standalone, but the stories are so wonderful and full of details that make you feel like you are along for the ride. This is a new wagon train of travelers under trail boss, Pete Evens. Estelle Ripley has been hired on to take care of cooking and laundry for Pete and his trail hands in exchange for her passage to Oregon. Lt. Graham Tremaine is traveling to Denver City to take a wagon of heirlooms and personal belongings to his sister Lynne (that we met in book 1) and then he plans to return to St. Louis. Graham is a wounded man, not only by the loss of a leg, but of himself. But he is stubborn and determined to walk with his crutch and do as much as he can. Estelle is hiding secrets, just hoping to have a new life in the West, one without people judging her. Some of the interesting and challenging people on this wagon train include a wannabe blowhard politician, a trouble making former slave, a ingenious inventor, a Daddy's girl who loves to throw around his name and a group of orphans. As with all wagon trains, deaths happen, illnesses, new romances, and always someone to cause trouble.
This story keeps the pages turning with interesting characters, entertaining dialog, mystery and suspense, several new love interest. It also has it angst, prejudice, accusations, and seeing people take a stand for what is right when someone is being done wrong. It does have some steamy moments with two people in love. I can't wait for the next book in this wonderful series. Each one is as unique as the characters in them.
Another wonderful addition to the Hot on the Trail series. This book can read as a standalone, but the stories are so wonderful and full of details that make you feel like you are along for the ride. This is a new wagon train of travelers under trail boss, Pete Evens. Estelle Ripley has been hired on to take care of cooking and laundry for Pete and his trail hands in exchange for her passage to Oregon. Lt. Graham Tremaine is traveling to Denver City to take a wagon of heirlooms and personal belongings to his sister Lynne (that we met in book 1) and then he plans to return to St. Louis. Graham is a wounded man, not only by the loss of a leg, but of himself. But he is stubborn and determined to walk with his crutch and do as much as he can. Estelle is hiding secrets, just hoping to have a new life in the West, one without people judging her. Some of the interesting and challenging people on this wagon train include a wannabe blowhard politician, a trouble making former slave, a ingenious inventor, a Daddy's girl who loves to throw around his name and a group of orphans. As with all wagon trains, deaths happen, illnesses, new romances, and always someone to cause trouble.
This story keeps the pages turning with interesting characters, entertaining dialog, mystery and suspense, several new love interest. It also has it angst, prejudice, accusations, and seeing people take a stand for what is right when someone is being done wrong. It does have some steamy moments with two people in love. I can't wait for the next book in this wonderful series. Each one is as unique as the characters in them.
June 26, 2015
I received an ARC copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
This is book 6 in the Hot on the Trail series. Estelle Ripley took a job with the wagon train heading west to start a new life. She has a secret. She is hoping out west that the secret would never have to come out. Graham Tremaine lost his leg in the war. He still has adapted t life without it. His sister Lynne came out on an earlier wagon train and meet and married a man that was sent with her to protect her. Graham is headed out to deliver her things to her. It never crossed his mind he would meet a women and fall in love. Who wants a man that can't do what other men can. From the first time Estelle sees Graham, she feels an attraction to him. But she can't afford him knowing her secret. As the two become friends physical limitations and secrets don't stop the heart from wanting what it wants.
I have loved all the books in this series. I might have to say this is my favorite one. Estelle had a good heart and being raised in between two worlds she sees both sides but for once wants to be in the world that seems to be easier to get through. Graham has his own demons to fight. He doesn't see himself as a whole man. Yet Estelle sees him that way. Between secrets, bigotry, and a group of orphans. The story keeps you engrossed and entertained. Wonderful secondary characters that will eventually get their own story
This is book 6 in the Hot on the Trail series. Estelle Ripley took a job with the wagon train heading west to start a new life. She has a secret. She is hoping out west that the secret would never have to come out. Graham Tremaine lost his leg in the war. He still has adapted t life without it. His sister Lynne came out on an earlier wagon train and meet and married a man that was sent with her to protect her. Graham is headed out to deliver her things to her. It never crossed his mind he would meet a women and fall in love. Who wants a man that can't do what other men can. From the first time Estelle sees Graham, she feels an attraction to him. But she can't afford him knowing her secret. As the two become friends physical limitations and secrets don't stop the heart from wanting what it wants.
I have loved all the books in this series. I might have to say this is my favorite one. Estelle had a good heart and being raised in between two worlds she sees both sides but for once wants to be in the world that seems to be easier to get through. Graham has his own demons to fight. He doesn't see himself as a whole man. Yet Estelle sees him that way. Between secrets, bigotry, and a group of orphans. The story keeps you engrossed and entertained. Wonderful secondary characters that will eventually get their own story
June 28, 2015
This is another book in the 'Hot on the Trail' series & features Graham Tremaine, a wounded Union soldier & Estelle Ripley, daughter of a white plantation owner & mixed race mother.
They are both travelling on the Oregon Trail.
Estelle is working as the trail cook & Graham is taking his sisters things on to her new home.
Estelle has a secret that she wants to keep hidden. Graham has a disability & is made to feel less of a man because of it.
When they meet, neither are looking for love. They are both hiding from something, and face a different kind of prejudice, hers being racial & the other, his disability.
A relationship blossoms between the two of them, despite this & they overcome these problems by working together & encouraging each other to face their fears and become stronger!
Love overcomes everything if you give it a chance!
This is another great read by Merry Farmer & can be read as a stand alone novel even if you've missed the other books in the series.
I really, really recommend the other books if you've not read them as they take you back to an era gone by & are a great escape from reality.
You immerse yourself in the little world that the author has created & it's very enjoyable.
The characters & storyline are as always, very believable & make you feel happy inside while reading.
They are both travelling on the Oregon Trail.
Estelle is working as the trail cook & Graham is taking his sisters things on to her new home.
Estelle has a secret that she wants to keep hidden. Graham has a disability & is made to feel less of a man because of it.
When they meet, neither are looking for love. They are both hiding from something, and face a different kind of prejudice, hers being racial & the other, his disability.
A relationship blossoms between the two of them, despite this & they overcome these problems by working together & encouraging each other to face their fears and become stronger!
Love overcomes everything if you give it a chance!
This is another great read by Merry Farmer & can be read as a stand alone novel even if you've missed the other books in the series.
I really, really recommend the other books if you've not read them as they take you back to an era gone by & are a great escape from reality.
You immerse yourself in the little world that the author has created & it's very enjoyable.
The characters & storyline are as always, very believable & make you feel happy inside while reading.
June 30, 2015
I love Merry Farmer Hot on the Trail books. Trail of Redemption is book 6 in the series, and if you haven’t read any of the other books, I suggest you do..
Estelle Ripley was hired by the wagon master as a cook and helper for his wagon train crew. However, she is keeping a big secret from everyone on the trail. Except one person on the trail knows her secret and it bound and determined to use it to his advantage.
Graham Tremaine is soldier who lost his leg in battle and is only going west to deliver his sister’s belongings to her in Denver. He is determined to walk the majority of the way with one leg and a crutch under his arm to get him there. No matter what feelings he starts developing for Estelle he doesn’t want to act on them. He thinks he cannot every have feelings for anyone because he can never be a man that a woman wants or needs with only one leg.
On the trail one of the travelers has group of orphans that are heading west in hopes of being placed, however when she passes away on the trail they have to find other members of their group to take the kids. The trail boss ends up putting Estelle and Graham in charge of Tim. During their time together, their feelings grow. Graham figures out Estelle’s secret but wants her to tell him in her own time. Will Estelle tell Graham her secret? Will Graham care about her secret?
Estelle Ripley was hired by the wagon master as a cook and helper for his wagon train crew. However, she is keeping a big secret from everyone on the trail. Except one person on the trail knows her secret and it bound and determined to use it to his advantage.
Graham Tremaine is soldier who lost his leg in battle and is only going west to deliver his sister’s belongings to her in Denver. He is determined to walk the majority of the way with one leg and a crutch under his arm to get him there. No matter what feelings he starts developing for Estelle he doesn’t want to act on them. He thinks he cannot every have feelings for anyone because he can never be a man that a woman wants or needs with only one leg.
On the trail one of the travelers has group of orphans that are heading west in hopes of being placed, however when she passes away on the trail they have to find other members of their group to take the kids. The trail boss ends up putting Estelle and Graham in charge of Tim. During their time together, their feelings grow. Graham figures out Estelle’s secret but wants her to tell him in her own time. Will Estelle tell Graham her secret? Will Graham care about her secret?
July 6, 2015
Trail of Redemption
This is the second book from Merry Farmer that i have read. Giving us a glimpse of the remnants of war and also life on the Trail.
Estelle is on her way to starting over a new life in Oregon, trying to bury her past life in Georgia. Just minding her own business by keeping her head down and doing jobs on the trail. What she didn't expect is the people she'll meet around that will be great friends to her and that one person she seems to resist but can't help but fall in love with.
Graham is one of those men that served in the war and also lost his leg from it. And because of this, he find himself being worthless or of no help. Meeting Estelle gave him the hope and confidence that he needs. As well as love.
Together they braved the trail being given challenges along the way and stuck with each other, having each others back. Gaining new friends & another person who will rely with them & love them.
I love this story, it shows that no matter what color or race you are, there are no bounds when love embodies you. I like how Estelle became a strong woman who learned how to overcome her fears and the same with Graham as well. Getting the confidence & hope they both need for a future together.
This is the second book from Merry Farmer that i have read. Giving us a glimpse of the remnants of war and also life on the Trail.
Estelle is on her way to starting over a new life in Oregon, trying to bury her past life in Georgia. Just minding her own business by keeping her head down and doing jobs on the trail. What she didn't expect is the people she'll meet around that will be great friends to her and that one person she seems to resist but can't help but fall in love with.
Graham is one of those men that served in the war and also lost his leg from it. And because of this, he find himself being worthless or of no help. Meeting Estelle gave him the hope and confidence that he needs. As well as love.
Together they braved the trail being given challenges along the way and stuck with each other, having each others back. Gaining new friends & another person who will rely with them & love them.
I love this story, it shows that no matter what color or race you are, there are no bounds when love embodies you. I like how Estelle became a strong woman who learned how to overcome her fears and the same with Graham as well. Getting the confidence & hope they both need for a future together.
August 1, 2015
Trail of Redemption-Book #6: - The story continues with Graham Tremaine wounded in the Civil War heading west to deliver his sister's belongings to her in Denver. Graham joins a wagon train going to Oregon with Lynn's trunks from home. After the war he has another battle to face with himself and he has to find another way to live due to missing a leg in the war..
He meets a woman Estelle Ripley on the trail that is running from her past life, she just wants to leave it all behind her and find a new life. She has secrets and mysteries that she is hiding but love endures even when you are not looking for it. The two tries to help each other as their lives continue on the hardships of the wagon train.
The plot was excellent, the characters came alive with plenty of details. As you go west on the trail you find friends you will not forget. Merry Farmer did a wonderful job of holding these people together and giving us some history of our country, an outstanding story. Thanks Merry for an excellent novel.
He meets a woman Estelle Ripley on the trail that is running from her past life, she just wants to leave it all behind her and find a new life. She has secrets and mysteries that she is hiding but love endures even when you are not looking for it. The two tries to help each other as their lives continue on the hardships of the wagon train.
The plot was excellent, the characters came alive with plenty of details. As you go west on the trail you find friends you will not forget. Merry Farmer did a wonderful job of holding these people together and giving us some history of our country, an outstanding story. Thanks Merry for an excellent novel.
June 29, 2015
This is another winner for Merry Farmer in her Hot on the Trail series. This takes place the next year after books 1-5. Graham Tremaine is going to Denver City with a wagon load of his sister's things ( Lynn, whom we met in book 1 ). Graham is a man who has lost his confidence because of injuries he received in the war. One of his fellow travelers is Estelle Ripley who is working her way west as Pete Evans's cook and helper. Estelle has things in her life that she wants to leave in Georgia. But there are those who don't want those things to be forgotten. Graham and Estelle form a relationship and help each other to cope with life on the trail. The development of that relationship is one of the things Merry has a way of covering that keeps you engrossed in the story. You can't put the book down. You also meet some new characters who, I am sure, will be the subject of future books. This was a very good read, could not wait to read the next page.
**** I received a ARC copy of this book for an honest review. ****
**** I received a ARC copy of this book for an honest review. ****
June 28, 2015
Disclosure: I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Merry Farmer is an excellent writer and story teller! This book is absolutely no exception. It continues the Hot on the Trail series - a collection of books following individuals headed to Denver and Oregon. In this story we are introduced to Lynn Tremaine's (Book 1) brother Graham, who, as a result of the Civil War, is left without one of his legs. We are also introduced to Estelle - a young woman from Georgia with a secret. Between Estelle's secret and Graham's handicap we are once again exposed to one of Merry Farmer's greatest strengths - writing about things that others don't write about. Very few authors can take characters that would be rejected or have trouble fitting in with those in their time and weave a story that uses that as a backdrop, but is not consumed by it. Reading this book will not be a mistake!! Caution - this is a steamy romance, do not buy if you are looking for a clean read :)
Merry Farmer is an excellent writer and story teller! This book is absolutely no exception. It continues the Hot on the Trail series - a collection of books following individuals headed to Denver and Oregon. In this story we are introduced to Lynn Tremaine's (Book 1) brother Graham, who, as a result of the Civil War, is left without one of his legs. We are also introduced to Estelle - a young woman from Georgia with a secret. Between Estelle's secret and Graham's handicap we are once again exposed to one of Merry Farmer's greatest strengths - writing about things that others don't write about. Very few authors can take characters that would be rejected or have trouble fitting in with those in their time and weave a story that uses that as a backdrop, but is not consumed by it. Reading this book will not be a mistake!! Caution - this is a steamy romance, do not buy if you are looking for a clean read :)
June 29, 2015
* I received an ARC for my honest review. *
Merry Farmer has outdone herself with this book! She gives 110% in each book and this is the best one yet!
Estelle Ripley has a secret she is running from. Graham Tremaine is a lieutenant from the Civil War who gave his leg for the cause. Isaiah is a disgruntled freed slave who will do whatever he can to stop their happiness. Throw in other characters whose stories are yet to come and it makes for a great book!
This book spoke to me about love, prejudice, compassion, heartache, and finally, acceptance. We can't run from our problems or hide from them, no matter how hard we try. We must face our fears head on, with eyes wide open, and know that those who care for us will be right by our side for the battle. True love isn't about control or force, it's about acceptance and a desire to raise the other person up to their greatest potential. Ms. Farmer passes along life lessons in her stories worth dreaming about!
Merry Farmer has outdone herself with this book! She gives 110% in each book and this is the best one yet!
Estelle Ripley has a secret she is running from. Graham Tremaine is a lieutenant from the Civil War who gave his leg for the cause. Isaiah is a disgruntled freed slave who will do whatever he can to stop their happiness. Throw in other characters whose stories are yet to come and it makes for a great book!
This book spoke to me about love, prejudice, compassion, heartache, and finally, acceptance. We can't run from our problems or hide from them, no matter how hard we try. We must face our fears head on, with eyes wide open, and know that those who care for us will be right by our side for the battle. True love isn't about control or force, it's about acceptance and a desire to raise the other person up to their greatest potential. Ms. Farmer passes along life lessons in her stories worth dreaming about!
June 29, 2015
I received an ARC of this book for exchange of an honest review.
Merry Farmer has done it again. This book begins a year after the previous books in this series.
Estelle has gotten a job on Pete Evans' last wagon train to the West. She will serve food to the men and help out where she is needed. She has secrets and headed out West will give her a chance to make a new start.
Graham Tremaine is headed West to take his sister Lynne some of her belongings. He lost a leg in the war and has been feeling lost ever since. He is up for a change in scenery and some adventure. He finds a kindred spirit in Estelle because she doesn't treat him with pity.
There is adventure, suspense, love and loss along the way to their new home. This is a great book!
Merry Farmer has done it again. This book begins a year after the previous books in this series.
Estelle has gotten a job on Pete Evans' last wagon train to the West. She will serve food to the men and help out where she is needed. She has secrets and headed out West will give her a chance to make a new start.
Graham Tremaine is headed West to take his sister Lynne some of her belongings. He lost a leg in the war and has been feeling lost ever since. He is up for a change in scenery and some adventure. He finds a kindred spirit in Estelle because she doesn't treat him with pity.
There is adventure, suspense, love and loss along the way to their new home. This is a great book!
July 4, 2015
Great characters and I'm definitely looking forward to the secondary characters having their own stories down the line. This one loses a star because the mood and reactions for the time period are off. There were a lot more people like Nelson and Ruth than the rest of the cast back then. The overall viewpoints in the book read more like the book is set in the 21st century than civil war era.
That being said, it was a great story anyway. I especially liked the struggles of a soldier that fought in the war and must now fight for what he wants every day due to his limitations. There are several great lines in this book and one amazing speech from Estelle. I look forward to more in the series!
ARC for review
That being said, it was a great story anyway. I especially liked the struggles of a soldier that fought in the war and must now fight for what he wants every day due to his limitations. There are several great lines in this book and one amazing speech from Estelle. I look forward to more in the series!
ARC for review
June 26, 2015
Isaiah needed to be taken down a leg or two or kicked in the nuts I didn't like him at all, "Isaiah continued to shake his head. “Look at you. You’re a cripple. You can’t even walk on your own.” I liked Graham he was protective of Estelle and wasn't afraid to come to her rescue, “Estelle shouldn’t have to put up with the likes of women who masquerade as decent folk when really they’re nothing but a bunch of small-minded, petty bigots,” he finished, then ignored Ruth completely. “The council is meeting right over here. Let’s hope this is short.” With new characters introduced to us I can't wait to dive into all their stories, this is always a one click series.
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