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Wildest Dreams
"A sweeping saga of passion, excitement, and danger...as a beautiful young woman and a rugged ex-soldier struggle against all odds to carve out an empire―and to forge a magnificent love." Lettie McBride knows that joining a wagon train heading West is her chance to begin anew, far from the devastating memories of the night that changed her forever. She doesn't believe she can escape the pain of innocence lost, or feel desire for any man…until she meets Luke Fontaine. Haunted by his own secrets, Luke would never blame Lettie for what happened in the past. One glance at the pretty redhead is enough to fill the handsome, hard-driving pioneer with a savage hunger. Against relentless snows, murderous desperadoes, and raiding Sioux, Luke and Lettie will face a heartrending choice : abandon a lawless land before it destroys them, or fight for their Wildest Dreams. An emotional saga from the "QUEEN OF WESTERN HISTORICAL ROMANCE" that will captivate fans of Debra Holland, Jodi Thomas, Diana Palmer, and Linda Lael Miller. What readers are saying about Wildest Dreams : "I laughed and cried and mourned the end of this wonderful adventure !" "This is my idea of what love , marriage and family should be like." "This book kept me thinking long after I had read the last page ." "I have not read a historical romance in years, and years. But, this one sucked me right in ." " If I were stranded on an island and could only take 5 books with me, this would be one." What reviewers are saying about Wildest Dreams : "It's a rip-roaring soap opera that lets the reader follow a couple's life together over the course of 25 years." "Anyone seeking an emotional, sweeping Western saga need look no further…" "I was swept away into Luke and Lettie's story and loved every re-reading minute of it, and they and their story has stayed with me again long after I have finished ." " Books like this aren't being published in the romance genre anymore ― and it's a damn cryin' shame." "In my opinion this book was everything a good western romance should be ." What everyone is saying about RT Book Reviews Career Achievement Award–winning and USA Today bestselling Author Rosanne " Power, passion, tragedy, and triumph are Rosanne Bittner's hallmarks . Again and again, she brings readers to tears." "The strong flavor of the Wild West combines with a beautiful love story , creating a true saga of the era." "Ms. Bittner has a way of bringing the pages and characters to life which pulled me right in from page one and I hated having to put it down for even one second." "If you like authentic American West romances with in depth characterizations Rosanne Bittner is your author." "Rosanne Bittner has a way of weaving a story into your heart so that you can't help but love the characters and feel like you truly know them!" "We are very lucky to be living during a time when the TRUEE QUEEN OF HISTORICAL ROMANCE …keeps delivering epic novels that are forever engraved in our hearts."
640 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published June 1, 1994
123 people are currently reading
815 people want to read
About the author
Rosanne Bittner
84 books621 followersI am a USA-TODAY best-selling author with 41 years, 76 books, and numerous writing awards behind me. My major genre is historical romance. I have always written for standard publishers but am now writing strictly for Amazon so I have more freedom to write real history. My most recent publication is SHADOW TRAIL, the 6th book in my Outlaw Hearts series. I also wrote and published my first full-length contemporary story, DANCING BENEATH YOU, in September 2022, a romance involving mystery and a depiction of reservation life in the Badlands of South Dakota. My best sellers are my SAVAGE DESTINY series (7 books) and my OUTLAW HEARTS series. See my website (www.rosannebittner.com) for details on all my books - most available for Kindle and in print. I am known for great love stories filled with real history and high emotion. I have also written many Native American stories, all based on real history.
I love American history. For those of you who have not yet read my books, my stories are generally set in the American West of the 1800s and feature vividly described, historically accurate settings that span the US from Missouri to California, from Canada to Mexico. Many of my books portray the poignant history of our Native Americans, and though the characters are my own, I use real historical locations and events in all my novels. I have also written about the French & Indian wars, American Revolution, the War of 1812, the war with Mexico (the Alamo), and the Civil War.
National magazine ROMANTIC TIMES has called me the "Queen of Western Romance" and an "emotional powerhouse." My husband and I have traveled the west for nearly 40 years and I have visited just about every location mentioned in my books.
Visit my website at www.rosannebittner.com and my Facebook Author page. And be sure to join Rosanne Bittner's Heart of the West Street Team! Happy reading!
I love American history. For those of you who have not yet read my books, my stories are generally set in the American West of the 1800s and feature vividly described, historically accurate settings that span the US from Missouri to California, from Canada to Mexico. Many of my books portray the poignant history of our Native Americans, and though the characters are my own, I use real historical locations and events in all my novels. I have also written about the French & Indian wars, American Revolution, the War of 1812, the war with Mexico (the Alamo), and the Civil War.
National magazine ROMANTIC TIMES has called me the "Queen of Western Romance" and an "emotional powerhouse." My husband and I have traveled the west for nearly 40 years and I have visited just about every location mentioned in my books.
Visit my website at www.rosannebittner.com and my Facebook Author page. And be sure to join Rosanne Bittner's Heart of the West Street Team! Happy reading!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 80 reviews
November 3, 2015
The war is over, but not for one man and one woman for reasons of their own..they each carry the scars and great burdens because of it.
Luke and Lettie, putting their pasts behind them set out on the same wagon train headed west to find a new and better life.
Little did they realize that their lives would entwine together towards that future and that it would be filled with passion, excitement, joys and sorrows as well as danger.
This is the story of a beautiful young woman, and a rugged ex-soldier that struggle against the odds to carve out an empire of their own, and forge a beautiful and magnificent love story that will stay with the reader long after their story is told.
This fantastic saga of Luke and Lettie Fontaine is packed with adventure, murderous desperadoes, raiding Sioux Indians among a harsh an unforgiving land.
Violence and tragedy will stalk these two, but they stand together with a love so strong throughout their story that it leaves the reader amazed at how much they endure as they are forced with brutal challenges, that will end with heart rending choices.
Will this abandoned lawless land destroy them?
Or will Luke and Lettie fight heart and soul for their Wildest Dreams?
CHARACTERS:
Luke Fontaine:
Denied & disinherited by his father he sets out to prove to him & his brother he would build the biggest ranch in Montana,and give everything and anything to the woman he loves.
Even if it turns him into a ruthless man ready to kill.
Lettie Fontaine:
Luke showed her how to open her heart and love again,after one man nearly destroyed her soul.But another man's desire could ruin all she cherished. And would another woman find a way to her husbands bed?
Nathan:
Conceived in violence and destined for tragedy,Lettie's young son would be stolen from his mothers arms by the Sioux and raised as a warrior..would he attack his own flesh and blood?
Tyler:
First-born Fontaine son, he is his father's spitting image, a boy destined to love a woman he can never have and to hate the half brother who will become his enemy and rival.
Katie:
A true child of the frontier,she is a hard-riding cowgirl,the apple of her father's eye...
and soon the pawn in an outlaw's plan of revenge.
This is my third time reading this book, I gave it a 5 star rating twice before and now again, as it captured and touched me once more.
If I could, I would rate it a 10 because that is how much it captured me.
The only other book that I have read that I loved so much and became a part of the Hero and Heroine's life as I read it was Outlander, and recently" Women of the Wind" by Margaret Ritter (with a review pending for it.)
This book..Wildest Dreams, and "Women of the Wind" are neck to neck on my keeper shelf.
But once again I was swept away into Luke and Lettie's story and loved every re-reading minute of it.
And once again, it was hard to say good-bye.. and how many books can do that?
Luke and Lettie, putting their pasts behind them set out on the same wagon train headed west to find a new and better life.
Little did they realize that their lives would entwine together towards that future and that it would be filled with passion, excitement, joys and sorrows as well as danger.
This is the story of a beautiful young woman, and a rugged ex-soldier that struggle against the odds to carve out an empire of their own, and forge a beautiful and magnificent love story that will stay with the reader long after their story is told.
This fantastic saga of Luke and Lettie Fontaine is packed with adventure, murderous desperadoes, raiding Sioux Indians among a harsh an unforgiving land.
Violence and tragedy will stalk these two, but they stand together with a love so strong throughout their story that it leaves the reader amazed at how much they endure as they are forced with brutal challenges, that will end with heart rending choices.
Will this abandoned lawless land destroy them?
Or will Luke and Lettie fight heart and soul for their Wildest Dreams?
CHARACTERS:
Luke Fontaine:
Denied & disinherited by his father he sets out to prove to him & his brother he would build the biggest ranch in Montana,and give everything and anything to the woman he loves.
Even if it turns him into a ruthless man ready to kill.
Lettie Fontaine:
Luke showed her how to open her heart and love again,after one man nearly destroyed her soul.But another man's desire could ruin all she cherished. And would another woman find a way to her husbands bed?
Nathan:
Conceived in violence and destined for tragedy,Lettie's young son would be stolen from his mothers arms by the Sioux and raised as a warrior..would he attack his own flesh and blood?
Tyler:
First-born Fontaine son, he is his father's spitting image, a boy destined to love a woman he can never have and to hate the half brother who will become his enemy and rival.
Katie:
A true child of the frontier,she is a hard-riding cowgirl,the apple of her father's eye...
and soon the pawn in an outlaw's plan of revenge.
This is my third time reading this book, I gave it a 5 star rating twice before and now again, as it captured and touched me once more.
If I could, I would rate it a 10 because that is how much it captured me.
The only other book that I have read that I loved so much and became a part of the Hero and Heroine's life as I read it was Outlander, and recently" Women of the Wind" by Margaret Ritter (with a review pending for it.)
This book..Wildest Dreams, and "Women of the Wind" are neck to neck on my keeper shelf.
But once again I was swept away into Luke and Lettie's story and loved every re-reading minute of it.
And once again, it was hard to say good-bye.. and how many books can do that?
December 31, 2015
Lettie and Luke go through A LOT and I mean that in every sense of the word. Lol The story is well written and follows them through a span of many many years. This is a story that you want to read when you've got a good block of time to dedicate to reading it. The characters are imperfect and unique. They are interesting and complex. The story could have easily been split into 3 different books.
ARC received in exchange for an honest review.
ARC received in exchange for an honest review.
January 17, 2016
This review was originally posted on Addicted To Romance
In Wildest Dreams, Originally Published 1994, we have a story that through Sourcebook Casablanca comes back alive with a republishing. We are taken to an era that was full of discovery, danger, and finding one's full potential through the test of trials, grief, suffering but also love, devotion and passion for life. The story takes us back to the era of the civil war and after the war and reconstruction. This period of America's history was full of strife and Rosanne Bittner makes these challenges come alive within these 600 pages. I know that amount of numbere of pages sounds daunting, however I savored each moment of this story.
We are taken back to a story that begins with our two main characters....Lettie Mcbride and Luke Fontaine. Lettie along with her parents and siblings are traveling west on a wagon train in search of a new hope. Lettie has suffered from the raids on their home, when in an effort to protect and save her horse, she herself was attacked and raped. She had a son from that horrific night, Nathan. When Lettie meets Luke, Nathan is only a few years old. Luke Fontaine, has recently learned that he is a bastard, and his father favors his brother over Luke. So Luke leaves the only home he has ever known, and is driven to succeed. When he meets Lettie, and they start spending time together while traveling west, they fall in love. Lettie's family heads to Colorado but when she agrees to marry Luke, she knows that life is going to be full of troubles and trials. Luke and Lettie head to the Montana Territory. A territory that has plenty of land, but is rugged, dangerous and untamed. Luke wants to make an empire and even though Luke and Lettie start in a shack, they make a home together. The first few years wear on Lettie and Luke with battles with indians, rustlers and more. They make friends of neighbors, but one fateful night will test them. They lose their son Nathan to indians, not knowing if he is alive or dead. Luke and Lettie only become stronger, they build up their ranch and the land, they begin building a family with three sons and two daughters. Even though they build up a wondrous dream, they also have their griefs and losses and battles.
What is most wonderful about Rosanne Bittner, is how she handles these love family saga's. I have never read a author that handles them so well. There were many moments in this story where I want to break down in tears. The emotion that Bittner conveys in this story is truly heart wrenching at times. It really brings home, what trials these men and women----true pioneers suffered. Luke and Lottie are one of my favorite couples to read, because the one thing that keeps them strong and vibrant is the love they have for each other. We see them grow from newlyweds in their twenties to their forties, with grown children having families of their own. This is not your average romance that we see, and quite frankly sage romances are so rare that its also so delightful to immerse myself into one and boy this one had everything I needed to be a full satisfying romance that I couldn't get enough of.
There are some trajedies but there are also many great triumphs for Luke and Lettie. We see the joy they find in each other and in each of their children. It was so charming to see the growth of their relationship over the years. And they really get challenged at a certain point that almost tears them apart. But what was most endearing about this pair, was their strength and devotion to each other. Both Luke and Lettie have such courage and stay together no matter what comes their way. The literally learn to fight for one another both physically and emotionally. They learn how important it is to rely on each other; especially in the most challenging times of their marriage because that is when they need each other most. We see the trials their children have to go through, and boy my heart ached for all of them. And those that have read this story already, know which ones I am talking about. But we also see how they overcome the trials they each have been dealt and overcome them to claim a life of love and fulfillment just like their own parents.
Wildest Hearts is a love story that will endear you forever to Luke and Lettie, will take you back through the time of the reconstruction era of America's history, introduce you to the beauty of the Montana land and this poignant love story to remember forever!!! SIMPLY MAJESTIC!!
Books N'Tunes Challenge
In Wildest Dreams, Originally Published 1994, we have a story that through Sourcebook Casablanca comes back alive with a republishing. We are taken to an era that was full of discovery, danger, and finding one's full potential through the test of trials, grief, suffering but also love, devotion and passion for life. The story takes us back to the era of the civil war and after the war and reconstruction. This period of America's history was full of strife and Rosanne Bittner makes these challenges come alive within these 600 pages. I know that amount of numbere of pages sounds daunting, however I savored each moment of this story.
We are taken back to a story that begins with our two main characters....Lettie Mcbride and Luke Fontaine. Lettie along with her parents and siblings are traveling west on a wagon train in search of a new hope. Lettie has suffered from the raids on their home, when in an effort to protect and save her horse, she herself was attacked and raped. She had a son from that horrific night, Nathan. When Lettie meets Luke, Nathan is only a few years old. Luke Fontaine, has recently learned that he is a bastard, and his father favors his brother over Luke. So Luke leaves the only home he has ever known, and is driven to succeed. When he meets Lettie, and they start spending time together while traveling west, they fall in love. Lettie's family heads to Colorado but when she agrees to marry Luke, she knows that life is going to be full of troubles and trials. Luke and Lettie head to the Montana Territory. A territory that has plenty of land, but is rugged, dangerous and untamed. Luke wants to make an empire and even though Luke and Lettie start in a shack, they make a home together. The first few years wear on Lettie and Luke with battles with indians, rustlers and more. They make friends of neighbors, but one fateful night will test them. They lose their son Nathan to indians, not knowing if he is alive or dead. Luke and Lettie only become stronger, they build up their ranch and the land, they begin building a family with three sons and two daughters. Even though they build up a wondrous dream, they also have their griefs and losses and battles.
What is most wonderful about Rosanne Bittner, is how she handles these love family saga's. I have never read a author that handles them so well. There were many moments in this story where I want to break down in tears. The emotion that Bittner conveys in this story is truly heart wrenching at times. It really brings home, what trials these men and women----true pioneers suffered. Luke and Lottie are one of my favorite couples to read, because the one thing that keeps them strong and vibrant is the love they have for each other. We see them grow from newlyweds in their twenties to their forties, with grown children having families of their own. This is not your average romance that we see, and quite frankly sage romances are so rare that its also so delightful to immerse myself into one and boy this one had everything I needed to be a full satisfying romance that I couldn't get enough of.
There are some trajedies but there are also many great triumphs for Luke and Lettie. We see the joy they find in each other and in each of their children. It was so charming to see the growth of their relationship over the years. And they really get challenged at a certain point that almost tears them apart. But what was most endearing about this pair, was their strength and devotion to each other. Both Luke and Lettie have such courage and stay together no matter what comes their way. The literally learn to fight for one another both physically and emotionally. They learn how important it is to rely on each other; especially in the most challenging times of their marriage because that is when they need each other most. We see the trials their children have to go through, and boy my heart ached for all of them. And those that have read this story already, know which ones I am talking about. But we also see how they overcome the trials they each have been dealt and overcome them to claim a life of love and fulfillment just like their own parents.
Wildest Hearts is a love story that will endear you forever to Luke and Lettie, will take you back through the time of the reconstruction era of America's history, introduce you to the beauty of the Montana land and this poignant love story to remember forever!!! SIMPLY MAJESTIC!!
Just as a seed can sprout new life after being tossed aside, forgotten and left to die; So can love buried by pride and guilt come to bloom again...Stronger, Healthier and even more beautiful.
Books N'Tunes Challenge
October 8, 2017
So...wow. I have no idea what to say about this book. It's unlike anything I've ever read. It spanned 25 years and followed Luke and Lettie as they met on a wagon train, married, and settled in Montana. It showed the couple building up a ranch, having children, and going through life. As the years passed, the story involved their children's lives, the growth of the community, and how times changed. It was truly an epic story. Oh, some things happened in here that I couldn't stand. Luke, in particular, did something I hate in characters. However, Rosanne Bittner made it work within the confines of the story. I just love how she was able to get me so attached to Luke and Lettie that I was willing to read such a long story about them and their family. Even now, I find myself wanting to know what happens next. That's the mark of a good author.
December 2, 2015
I feel like i did this book an injustice by reading it in a time when i was really busy -
I thought about stopping many times but i just couldn't-
This was epic and spans for many years and through it we live with Luke and Lettie as they meet, fall in love and embark on a life long adventure.
From the wagon train- loneliness and wilderness- Indian attacks and robbers - lives lost and friendships gained -
They build their empire and family.
Only thing i wanted more of is Nathen, I wish we got to read more about him.
A wonderful book- one that I want to reread one day.
This was my second book by Rosanne Bittner - can't wait to read more by her.
This review is for a free copy provided by NetGalley.
I thought about stopping many times but i just couldn't-
This was epic and spans for many years and through it we live with Luke and Lettie as they meet, fall in love and embark on a life long adventure.
From the wagon train- loneliness and wilderness- Indian attacks and robbers - lives lost and friendships gained -
They build their empire and family.
Only thing i wanted more of is Nathen, I wish we got to read more about him.
A wonderful book- one that I want to reread one day.
This was my second book by Rosanne Bittner - can't wait to read more by her.
This review is for a free copy provided by NetGalley.
January 3, 2016
And I took up my next historical western romance saga from an author that is one of my all time favorites. Anticipation and eagerness built for this story of a young pioneering couple who have dreams and hope for what they can have in the wilds of Montana. They share a love that carries them through tragedy and tough hardships and sustains them through the years. Emotionally engaging, historically accurate, flawed and deep characters, colorful settings, and a surrounding cast of characters and plot threads that made this a pleasure from cover to cover.
The story is a standalone and is in itself a series all in one as it follows the story of a couple and their children's lives.
The story opens with the encounter of Lettie McBride and Luke Fontaine on a wagon train journey to parts west out of St. Louis. Lettie and her family are escaping the troubles and awkwardness brought on by her rape and subsequent birth to a son. They want a new start and so does she though she thinks that she will never deserve or want another man. Luke was cut off from his family when his father announced that he isn't the man's son, but a bastard and he will never share in the family business. He is out to prove that he has worth and can make it on his own in Montana where he hopes to ranch.
Luke develops feelings for Lettie and soon proves to her that he is strong enough to love her no matter what. They leave her family at the fork in the trail and head off to make their dreams come true. A hard first winter, outlaws, loneliness, set backs, indian troubles, personal loss, estrangement, and doubt are there as they work their land and build a ranch and home. With each disaster they wonder if their dream is worth it. But Luke is strong and Lettie's love gives him the strength to do anything. Lettie finds that supporting Luke and having his love is all she needs to sustain her.
Alright, so this one is a long drawn-out story of a young couple who start with a small stake and work to turn it into something big. They are confronted by a lot of challenges and most of them were horrific and heartbreaking. This is not a cozy or easy story nor does it resolve quickly. The courtship and marriage are only the beginning with this being the story that comes after that. The romance is passionate between Luke and Lettie, but it is hard fought.
This one was a blend of passive and active voice along with summary and narration. I did find it distracting at first as the author swiftly worked through the meet up, courtship, and marriage, but then it made sense when I realized that the real story was their settling in Montana and raising a home and family. It was a refreshing take on romance and I liked that. This is also a saga so it doesn't end with Luke and Lettie making it after a few years, but continues on with their children growing up and starting their lives.
Saying this, I love that the author writes them as a passionate pair who have an active physical love and need each other. Their relationship is the foundation of so many lives and stories around them.
The characters are fascinating in that they are flawed and make mistakes. They are strong, handsome people that everyone sees heroic qualities in, but they have their weak moments and make mistakes. I filled a couple of tissues for these two and all they went through.
My only niggle was the ending. Things were going along and then it just stopped. I can't say that any story threads were left dangling, but the feel of the story was of ongoing life and plans for the future. And maybe that is exactly why the author chose that point. I think an epilogue scene of a later reunion of the extended family or something like that would have been better for me. But, this was a small concern against the greater enjoyment of the book.
All in all, this author continues to give me wonderful, riveting, emotional stories. I will attack her backlist at some point and continue to snatch up any new or re-releases. Those who enjoy sweeping historical western sagas really need to read her stuff.
My thanks to Sourcebooks Casablanca for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
The story is a standalone and is in itself a series all in one as it follows the story of a couple and their children's lives.
The story opens with the encounter of Lettie McBride and Luke Fontaine on a wagon train journey to parts west out of St. Louis. Lettie and her family are escaping the troubles and awkwardness brought on by her rape and subsequent birth to a son. They want a new start and so does she though she thinks that she will never deserve or want another man. Luke was cut off from his family when his father announced that he isn't the man's son, but a bastard and he will never share in the family business. He is out to prove that he has worth and can make it on his own in Montana where he hopes to ranch.
Luke develops feelings for Lettie and soon proves to her that he is strong enough to love her no matter what. They leave her family at the fork in the trail and head off to make their dreams come true. A hard first winter, outlaws, loneliness, set backs, indian troubles, personal loss, estrangement, and doubt are there as they work their land and build a ranch and home. With each disaster they wonder if their dream is worth it. But Luke is strong and Lettie's love gives him the strength to do anything. Lettie finds that supporting Luke and having his love is all she needs to sustain her.
Alright, so this one is a long drawn-out story of a young couple who start with a small stake and work to turn it into something big. They are confronted by a lot of challenges and most of them were horrific and heartbreaking. This is not a cozy or easy story nor does it resolve quickly. The courtship and marriage are only the beginning with this being the story that comes after that. The romance is passionate between Luke and Lettie, but it is hard fought.
This one was a blend of passive and active voice along with summary and narration. I did find it distracting at first as the author swiftly worked through the meet up, courtship, and marriage, but then it made sense when I realized that the real story was their settling in Montana and raising a home and family. It was a refreshing take on romance and I liked that. This is also a saga so it doesn't end with Luke and Lettie making it after a few years, but continues on with their children growing up and starting their lives.
Saying this, I love that the author writes them as a passionate pair who have an active physical love and need each other. Their relationship is the foundation of so many lives and stories around them.
The characters are fascinating in that they are flawed and make mistakes. They are strong, handsome people that everyone sees heroic qualities in, but they have their weak moments and make mistakes. I filled a couple of tissues for these two and all they went through.
My only niggle was the ending. Things were going along and then it just stopped. I can't say that any story threads were left dangling, but the feel of the story was of ongoing life and plans for the future. And maybe that is exactly why the author chose that point. I think an epilogue scene of a later reunion of the extended family or something like that would have been better for me. But, this was a small concern against the greater enjoyment of the book.
All in all, this author continues to give me wonderful, riveting, emotional stories. I will attack her backlist at some point and continue to snatch up any new or re-releases. Those who enjoy sweeping historical western sagas really need to read her stuff.
My thanks to Sourcebooks Casablanca for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
June 16, 2017
Nothing I don't like better then a book set in an area that I know. So was very excited to read this book, because where it is set, but also because of who wrote the book.
You have Lettie McBride, traveling west with her young son Nathan and her family. They are escaping the boarder wars going on in Missouri. They are wanting to make a new life for themselves in Denver, Colorado.
Then you have Luke Fontaine, that is leaving behind family secrets, and out to prove to his father and brother he can be successful without them. He is heading to Montana to buy land, and get rich.
Then they met on the wagontrain, something happens, love. So instead of going to Denver with her family, Lettie and son go with Luke to Montana.
They head to the Billings, Montana area that is a small town. The danger of Indians is high. The winters are cruel. Will they survive? Will the dream Luke has to become rich and successful happen?.
I loved this book. And like many of Rosanne's books I was left wanting some more. Because I know the area around Billings, I had a sense of where they lived, where they spent the first winter. I loved the twists and turns of this book. I wasn't expecting several of them, but that made the book that much better. It is a must read. And I will be reading it again.
You have Lettie McBride, traveling west with her young son Nathan and her family. They are escaping the boarder wars going on in Missouri. They are wanting to make a new life for themselves in Denver, Colorado.
Then you have Luke Fontaine, that is leaving behind family secrets, and out to prove to his father and brother he can be successful without them. He is heading to Montana to buy land, and get rich.
Then they met on the wagontrain, something happens, love. So instead of going to Denver with her family, Lettie and son go with Luke to Montana.
They head to the Billings, Montana area that is a small town. The danger of Indians is high. The winters are cruel. Will they survive? Will the dream Luke has to become rich and successful happen?.
I loved this book. And like many of Rosanne's books I was left wanting some more. Because I know the area around Billings, I had a sense of where they lived, where they spent the first winter. I loved the twists and turns of this book. I wasn't expecting several of them, but that made the book that much better. It is a must read. And I will be reading it again.
January 18, 2013
smidge under 4 stars (just upped my review, can't get this book outa my mind)
This is a story that spans about 25 years of a couple that homesteads in wild Montana.
It was like an epic, with all the hardships pioneers experienced while settling the west.
It was enjoyable but for a few things.
The hero cheats. I can't STAND cheating and this was glossed over like it really wasn't a big deal.
It's also weird to me that when the heroine thinks about him cheating, it "stirs her desire" of him.
I don't think so.
There were also many repetitive passages where the author felt the need to remind us of past moments.
Still, Ms. Bittner can truly draw me into a story and paint a beautiful picture.
This is a story that spans about 25 years of a couple that homesteads in wild Montana.
It was like an epic, with all the hardships pioneers experienced while settling the west.
It was enjoyable but for a few things.
The hero cheats. I can't STAND cheating and this was glossed over like it really wasn't a big deal.
It's also weird to me that when the heroine thinks about him cheating, it "stirs her desire" of him.
I don't think so.
There were also many repetitive passages where the author felt the need to remind us of past moments.
Still, Ms. Bittner can truly draw me into a story and paint a beautiful picture.
January 29, 2014
Sorrow after sorrow coming in waves from pages...I am % 70...Enough already!I can not read anymore..This book marked as a historical romance but its a saga/historical fiction...
December 18, 2022
I have liked most of Rosanne bittner’s books but this one was disappointing. Within 2 chapters, the hero and heroine decided that they were in love. That was way too fast for any romance book and they were no scenes between them to show the process of them falling in love. No bonding, no talking, none. So I wasn’t believing in the “I love you” at all.
I saw the 600 pages this book had and read some other reviews by other people before deciding to not continue reading as it seems that this book has a timeline of 20 years packed into it. I prefer books to be split into a series, like Rosanne bittner’s outlaw hearts series.
Dropping this book at chapter 3.
I saw the 600 pages this book had and read some other reviews by other people before deciding to not continue reading as it seems that this book has a timeline of 20 years packed into it. I prefer books to be split into a series, like Rosanne bittner’s outlaw hearts series.
Dropping this book at chapter 3.
January 6, 2016
I think that fans of the western romance genre will really like this story. The writing was incredibly detailed and true to the time period from what I can tell. I have only recently tried to branch out into the western genre, and I am finding that historical westerns may not be my thing. I thought that because I am such a huge fan of the Into the Wilderness series by Sara Donati, that I would like westerns and/or Native American stories... but so far I have not found any that I really connected with.
There were some things that I liked about Wildest Dreams: A Poignant, Epic Western Historical Romance. I loved the hero, Luke Fontaine. You simply could not ask for anything better in a historical hero of this time period. He was honorable, capable, hard-working, ambitious and loved his wife and family to distraction. He was also pretty much a cowboy badass. He fought (and won) against Indians, outlaws, bobcats, grizzly bears and political opponents! He is a hero along the lines of Jamie Fraser (Outlander) and Nathaniel Booner (Into the Wilderness). Luke Fontaine is definitely not a hero that you will forget soon... and if I had lived back in the time, I would have been looking for a cowboy just like him.
I liked the heroine, Lettie, for the most part. She suffered a horrible tragedy but carried on with strength and dignity, and her love for Luke was strong as iron most of the time. I loved that she weathered the rough Montana environs while maintaining her femininity, but was not afraid to get out and work to help her husband and family as needed. There is a part of the story where she pushes Luke away and I did not care for her for that chunk of the book - but I was able to get over it once they found their way back to one another.
I also liked all of the secondary characters. All of the characters were well-developed and interesting. Will and Henny were particular favorites, but all of the settlers and ranchers were interesting and added something to the story. The villains were truly horrendous and cringeworthy - what you are usually expecting from the big bads of the story.
What I disliked about the story was the sense of impending doom that I had the whole time I was reading it. It gave me anxiety and kind of cast a shadow over my reading. And believe me, THERE WAS A LOT OF DOOM! This was not a happy-go-lucky historical - these people had a hard life and suffered some truly horrendous things. There were so many plot conflicts that I thought the doom was going to do me in. And just when I thought the doom was over and the story was winding down - BAM - More Doom! Which kind of leads in to the only other thing that I didn't like - the length. By the time I got to 60%, I felt like I had read three books. This is truly a sweeping family saga, from cover to cover, the story spans more than a 20 year period. The length combined with all the doom was exhausting for me. The story is slow-paced simply because it is so detailed with so many highs and lows and following the daily life of these settlers... the pacing is not a bad thing, its just a product of the story type. It was not a fast-action suspense is what I am trying to say. I used to like these saga-type books, but now that I am blogging, I find that I don't always have the patience for them.
Don't get me wrong - I totally understand all the 5 star reviews for this story. Up until about 60%, I was still rating this one 4 stars. But it just got too long and started dragging for me, which brought me down to a respectable 3.5 star / 2 flame rating. I think that true fans of this genre will be tickled pink by this one, so don't let my review discourage you. I did think it was a good book and I liked it - but I am not sure westerns are ever going to be my thing.
I received a free copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
There were some things that I liked about Wildest Dreams: A Poignant, Epic Western Historical Romance. I loved the hero, Luke Fontaine. You simply could not ask for anything better in a historical hero of this time period. He was honorable, capable, hard-working, ambitious and loved his wife and family to distraction. He was also pretty much a cowboy badass. He fought (and won) against Indians, outlaws, bobcats, grizzly bears and political opponents! He is a hero along the lines of Jamie Fraser (Outlander) and Nathaniel Booner (Into the Wilderness). Luke Fontaine is definitely not a hero that you will forget soon... and if I had lived back in the time, I would have been looking for a cowboy just like him.
I liked the heroine, Lettie, for the most part. She suffered a horrible tragedy but carried on with strength and dignity, and her love for Luke was strong as iron most of the time. I loved that she weathered the rough Montana environs while maintaining her femininity, but was not afraid to get out and work to help her husband and family as needed. There is a part of the story where she pushes Luke away and I did not care for her for that chunk of the book - but I was able to get over it once they found their way back to one another.
I also liked all of the secondary characters. All of the characters were well-developed and interesting. Will and Henny were particular favorites, but all of the settlers and ranchers were interesting and added something to the story. The villains were truly horrendous and cringeworthy - what you are usually expecting from the big bads of the story.
What I disliked about the story was the sense of impending doom that I had the whole time I was reading it. It gave me anxiety and kind of cast a shadow over my reading. And believe me, THERE WAS A LOT OF DOOM! This was not a happy-go-lucky historical - these people had a hard life and suffered some truly horrendous things. There were so many plot conflicts that I thought the doom was going to do me in. And just when I thought the doom was over and the story was winding down - BAM - More Doom! Which kind of leads in to the only other thing that I didn't like - the length. By the time I got to 60%, I felt like I had read three books. This is truly a sweeping family saga, from cover to cover, the story spans more than a 20 year period. The length combined with all the doom was exhausting for me. The story is slow-paced simply because it is so detailed with so many highs and lows and following the daily life of these settlers... the pacing is not a bad thing, its just a product of the story type. It was not a fast-action suspense is what I am trying to say. I used to like these saga-type books, but now that I am blogging, I find that I don't always have the patience for them.
Don't get me wrong - I totally understand all the 5 star reviews for this story. Up until about 60%, I was still rating this one 4 stars. But it just got too long and started dragging for me, which brought me down to a respectable 3.5 star / 2 flame rating. I think that true fans of this genre will be tickled pink by this one, so don't let my review discourage you. I did think it was a good book and I liked it - but I am not sure westerns are ever going to be my thing.
I received a free copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
October 15, 2019
Oct 2019 reread
It's been a few years since I last visited Wildest Dreams, and what started as a "read a few favorite scenes to get over a Rosanne Bittner hangover from reading Ride the High Lonesome" idea quickly changed to where I was lost in the story and had to keep going till the end. I had forgotten so much to where in some ways it felt like a new to me read, but at the same time, I felt the comfort of a long-lost friend.
Luke and Lettie's story remains high on my favorite shelf. There's just something about reading a couple's story where they fall in love and start building a family together from early on in the book and we get to experience their life together -- raising their family, surviving the tragedies, rejoicing in the triumphs, dreaming, pursuing, changing, growing.... living. There's such beauty in watching the bond deepen between Luke and Lettie through the decades and how that flows down to their children.
This family saga delivers what feels like a several book series into one volume - we get plenty of details and focused attention on events, but are also able to move forward through time smoothly and not feeling like anything was left out.
Wildest Dreams is an epic story that will sweep you away and consume your thoughts.
~~~
2013 review
I'm loving that Rosanne Bittner is starting to put her older novels out in kindle format - and I hope she continues because she writes some of the best historical romance novels I've found! I only read a couple of her books way back when and it wasn't until this year that I rediscovered her and was thrilled to read Wildest Dreams!
One reviewer mentioned that this wasn't much of a romance novel - and I'd have to disagree. Yes, it isn't the typical story where most of the book is dedicated to the falling in love part and ends at the wedding with an epilogue glimpse into the future. You do get to experience the falling-in-love part, however, this book spends most of the time focusing on their lives from the wedding on - and the romance and how their love grows through the years. Trust me, the romance is there and honestly, I enjoy experiencing books where the story continues way past the wedding. That's where true love is forged in steel and where romance blooms to it's fullest. Luke and Lettie are two of my favorite RB characters and this book will always remain on my keeper shelf! How they work together to build their family and cattle-empire and what they face to make those dreams come true will keep you enthralled from the first sentence to the last page!
It's been a few years since I last visited Wildest Dreams, and what started as a "read a few favorite scenes to get over a Rosanne Bittner hangover from reading Ride the High Lonesome" idea quickly changed to where I was lost in the story and had to keep going till the end. I had forgotten so much to where in some ways it felt like a new to me read, but at the same time, I felt the comfort of a long-lost friend.
Luke and Lettie's story remains high on my favorite shelf. There's just something about reading a couple's story where they fall in love and start building a family together from early on in the book and we get to experience their life together -- raising their family, surviving the tragedies, rejoicing in the triumphs, dreaming, pursuing, changing, growing.... living. There's such beauty in watching the bond deepen between Luke and Lettie through the decades and how that flows down to their children.
This family saga delivers what feels like a several book series into one volume - we get plenty of details and focused attention on events, but are also able to move forward through time smoothly and not feeling like anything was left out.
Wildest Dreams is an epic story that will sweep you away and consume your thoughts.
~~~
2013 review
I'm loving that Rosanne Bittner is starting to put her older novels out in kindle format - and I hope she continues because she writes some of the best historical romance novels I've found! I only read a couple of her books way back when and it wasn't until this year that I rediscovered her and was thrilled to read Wildest Dreams!
One reviewer mentioned that this wasn't much of a romance novel - and I'd have to disagree. Yes, it isn't the typical story where most of the book is dedicated to the falling in love part and ends at the wedding with an epilogue glimpse into the future. You do get to experience the falling-in-love part, however, this book spends most of the time focusing on their lives from the wedding on - and the romance and how their love grows through the years. Trust me, the romance is there and honestly, I enjoy experiencing books where the story continues way past the wedding. That's where true love is forged in steel and where romance blooms to it's fullest. Luke and Lettie are two of my favorite RB characters and this book will always remain on my keeper shelf! How they work together to build their family and cattle-empire and what they face to make those dreams come true will keep you enthralled from the first sentence to the last page!
October 17, 2015
There is a reason why Rosanne Bittner is considered the queen of western historical romance, and her latest epic novel “Wildest Dreams” is the brightest gem in her crown. Ms. Bittner has created a family drama revolving the settling of the great state of Montana with Luke and Lettie Fontaine at the heart of an emotional love story. Luke Fontaine left his home in order to prove to himself and his estranged father that he had what it took to make it on his own. On his journey west he meets the beautiful Lettie, who for her own reasons has been forced from her home, and with her son and her family beside her, she finds love with Luke Fontaine. Luke convinces Lettie to join him on his foray into the beautiful wild territory of Montana and together they begin a lifetime of love, loss, and family. This beautiful novel will make you laugh and cry, but mainly it will make you respect the life and times of the people who settled this great nation. Ms. Bittner is a one of a kind author who elicits deep emotions from her readers by the words she puts to paper. I was given this book to read by the author in exchange for a fair and honest review.
September 30, 2014
WOW. Something like Lonesome Dove but a family
This is a pretty realistic story of a man with a dream of ranching in Montana after the Civil War and the woman and her son he met on the wagon train who helped him fulfill his dream. This is my idea of what love, marriage and family should be like. Hard to find these days. Great author and writing.
This is a pretty realistic story of a man with a dream of ranching in Montana after the Civil War and the woman and her son he met on the wagon train who helped him fulfill his dream. This is my idea of what love, marriage and family should be like. Hard to find these days. Great author and writing.
October 2, 2012
I absolutely loved "Wildest Dreams" It was a wonderful read as only Rosanne Bittner can do. I have yet to read one of her books that I didn't just fallin love with. Tonya
July 19, 2020
Very good historical western saga. Love this author! Reviews to come.
March 25, 2019
Well written and authentic but way too long. More a family saga with romance than a romance as such.
November 25, 2024
Consider me in happy, romantic heaven… This is the best Bittner book I’ve come across, hands down, so far. It has all the plus’ of Outlaw Hearts with the one flaw that book had corrected in this one. If you’re going to read any book by this author, let it be this one!!!
She keeps up the routine of family saga intermixed with a rich, beautiful romance in this one. Again, Bittner tells Lettie’s and Luke’s tale over decades, drawing in their struggle to build a successful ranch, fight off Indians and rustlers, and raise their children in a safe, loving environment. This trademark trait of Bittner’s novels works well again here.
Our two L’s, Luke and Lettie, have an instant connection, providing the partner that each needs to build a life and future in such a hostile and wild place as 1800s Montana. They play off each other realistically, arguing at times and suffering with the tragedies of daily life as well as reveling in the triumphs too. They’re emotionally resonant; I felt every single surge of love or pang of loss.
Bittner also makes both our leads wonderfully human, with all the fragilities and strengths that implies. Courageous and strong in equal measure, I felt a connection with both as soon as I started reading. Bittner improves on the characterization flaws that I experienced in Outlaw Hearts, the other novel of hers I adored. Neither of our “L”’s are perfect; both let grief and circumstances interfere with their relationship at times and both can be stubborn as hell. Their environment plays on their personalities, giving them a realistic feel that I loved.
She also pleases again in the setting and historical details department. Bittner brings Montana to life like few western romance authors can. She gets the remoteness, the craggy mountain beauty, the wide open valleys and plains, and the wind just right. I’ve experienced that blasting wind moaning over the prairie grasses myself and can say that part really resonated with me. I loved how the author showed us how Montana grew from the rugged territory it was into a bustling new state growing economically and politically.
To date, this is my favorite Bittner work hands down. It gets all the things right that my previous favorite had: great setting details and a wonderful romantic connection. Then she goes further and corrects the characterization flaws to give us two leads that are as human as we are. So if you’re going to be reading a Bittner work, definitely go for this one; to me, it’s the best one out there.
She keeps up the routine of family saga intermixed with a rich, beautiful romance in this one. Again, Bittner tells Lettie’s and Luke’s tale over decades, drawing in their struggle to build a successful ranch, fight off Indians and rustlers, and raise their children in a safe, loving environment. This trademark trait of Bittner’s novels works well again here.
Our two L’s, Luke and Lettie, have an instant connection, providing the partner that each needs to build a life and future in such a hostile and wild place as 1800s Montana. They play off each other realistically, arguing at times and suffering with the tragedies of daily life as well as reveling in the triumphs too. They’re emotionally resonant; I felt every single surge of love or pang of loss.
Bittner also makes both our leads wonderfully human, with all the fragilities and strengths that implies. Courageous and strong in equal measure, I felt a connection with both as soon as I started reading. Bittner improves on the characterization flaws that I experienced in Outlaw Hearts, the other novel of hers I adored. Neither of our “L”’s are perfect; both let grief and circumstances interfere with their relationship at times and both can be stubborn as hell. Their environment plays on their personalities, giving them a realistic feel that I loved.
She also pleases again in the setting and historical details department. Bittner brings Montana to life like few western romance authors can. She gets the remoteness, the craggy mountain beauty, the wide open valleys and plains, and the wind just right. I’ve experienced that blasting wind moaning over the prairie grasses myself and can say that part really resonated with me. I loved how the author showed us how Montana grew from the rugged territory it was into a bustling new state growing economically and politically.
To date, this is my favorite Bittner work hands down. It gets all the things right that my previous favorite had: great setting details and a wonderful romantic connection. Then she goes further and corrects the characterization flaws to give us two leads that are as human as we are. So if you’re going to be reading a Bittner work, definitely go for this one; to me, it’s the best one out there.
February 2, 2016
Originally Reviewed For: Bodice Rippers, Femme Fatales and Fantasy
Once again Rosanne Bittner has opened up her backlist and we are treated to a complete delight. Ms. Bittner's books exemplify what was great about the books of the 80's and early 90's.
Wildest Dreams was initially released in 1994 and one again, I managed to miss it. Who knows why..but I can tell you it is something I regret. Fortunately for all of us, Ms. Bittner has re released it so we get a chance to read something special.
Lettie McBride and her family left everything behind for a better life. Not that the life they left had been bad, they were prominent storekeepers, but when Lettie was raped and left with child, her world changed. Sixteen and treated like a pariah by society.. So her family pulled up stakes and set out for Denver and a new life.
Luke Fontaine had demons of his own. He too was raised in luxury but he was not blessed with the loving family that Lettie was. Declared a Bastard he was disowned and forced to make his way in life. This left him with a burning desire to become something more. Setting out on the same wagon train as the McBride family, Luke soon realized that Lettie is the woman he wants by his side as he makes his way in the world.
So, a young (very young) mother has to decide, leave her family and maybe a life of luxury or risk it all on a man who adores her but has little but promises to give her..
And the adventure truly begins, Wildest Dreams follows Lettie and Luke as they become one of the first families to settle in Montana, together they suffer triumphs and tragedies and through it all they realize that if they hold on to each other, there is nothing they can't do.
This was one of those books that created awe.. I closed the final page with a sigh and wished for more. We didn't see a window into their lives we lived their lives with them. This was an epic saga.. While most books today are maybe movies this was a mini series, ongoing.. life and it's struggles.. and all the rewards that come from just living.
A true work of art.
Shauni
This review is based on the ARC of Wildest Dreams, provided by netgalley.
Once again Rosanne Bittner has opened up her backlist and we are treated to a complete delight. Ms. Bittner's books exemplify what was great about the books of the 80's and early 90's.
Wildest Dreams was initially released in 1994 and one again, I managed to miss it. Who knows why..but I can tell you it is something I regret. Fortunately for all of us, Ms. Bittner has re released it so we get a chance to read something special.
Lettie McBride and her family left everything behind for a better life. Not that the life they left had been bad, they were prominent storekeepers, but when Lettie was raped and left with child, her world changed. Sixteen and treated like a pariah by society.. So her family pulled up stakes and set out for Denver and a new life.
Luke Fontaine had demons of his own. He too was raised in luxury but he was not blessed with the loving family that Lettie was. Declared a Bastard he was disowned and forced to make his way in life. This left him with a burning desire to become something more. Setting out on the same wagon train as the McBride family, Luke soon realized that Lettie is the woman he wants by his side as he makes his way in the world.
So, a young (very young) mother has to decide, leave her family and maybe a life of luxury or risk it all on a man who adores her but has little but promises to give her..
And the adventure truly begins, Wildest Dreams follows Lettie and Luke as they become one of the first families to settle in Montana, together they suffer triumphs and tragedies and through it all they realize that if they hold on to each other, there is nothing they can't do.
This was one of those books that created awe.. I closed the final page with a sigh and wished for more. We didn't see a window into their lives we lived their lives with them. This was an epic saga.. While most books today are maybe movies this was a mini series, ongoing.. life and it's struggles.. and all the rewards that come from just living.
A true work of art.
Shauni
This review is based on the ARC of Wildest Dreams, provided by netgalley.
October 3, 2015
Wow! That's all I can say. This ebook was absolutely terrific western romance by one of the best authors. You are taken back into a time of great adventure, hardships and overwhelming odds of true pioneers. The early settlers were so courageous and determined to achieve their dreams.
One such couple was Lettie McBride and Luke Fontaine. Theirs are such a sweet romance from the beginning.
Lettie is traveling via a wagon train with her parents and siblings to begin a new life in the West. She is a pretty woman with an illegitimate child called Nathan. Lettie is all that is good and proper, but one terrible act against a young woman has made people think badly of her. The circumstances were not her fault, but her family accepts and loves her all the same.
When Luke meets the lovely young mother and her child he is utterly smitten. He is told that Lettie is a widow and this gives him a chance to court her. But she tells him that she can't be what he wants and tries to get him to leave her alone.
Luke is handsome and determined to make Lettie his wife. She finally tells him the truth about Nathan expecting him to be ashamed of her.
But he is made of sterner stuff and tells her he loves her so much.
She loves him too and they marry. Luke wants to go to Montana and get the land he needs to fulfill his and Lettie's dreams. Luke promises her family to give Lettie the best life has to offer and then some.
They goes through so many struggles such as Indians, wildfire, outlaws and tragedy. Their love is strong and will be tested again and again.
I appreciate Net Galley and Sourcebooks for this title in which I gave an honest review.
One such couple was Lettie McBride and Luke Fontaine. Theirs are such a sweet romance from the beginning.
Lettie is traveling via a wagon train with her parents and siblings to begin a new life in the West. She is a pretty woman with an illegitimate child called Nathan. Lettie is all that is good and proper, but one terrible act against a young woman has made people think badly of her. The circumstances were not her fault, but her family accepts and loves her all the same.
When Luke meets the lovely young mother and her child he is utterly smitten. He is told that Lettie is a widow and this gives him a chance to court her. But she tells him that she can't be what he wants and tries to get him to leave her alone.
Luke is handsome and determined to make Lettie his wife. She finally tells him the truth about Nathan expecting him to be ashamed of her.
But he is made of sterner stuff and tells her he loves her so much.
She loves him too and they marry. Luke wants to go to Montana and get the land he needs to fulfill his and Lettie's dreams. Luke promises her family to give Lettie the best life has to offer and then some.
They goes through so many struggles such as Indians, wildfire, outlaws and tragedy. Their love is strong and will be tested again and again.
I appreciate Net Galley and Sourcebooks for this title in which I gave an honest review.
July 15, 2016
Spoilers may abound!
I enjoyed this book but I have to say, I don't know yet if any of her books can compare to Outlaw Hearts for me! However this was a great story that was a rollercoaster of emotions. My main quibble was Luke cheating and even though it was only once, I hated how it was dealt with and the reasoning. Due to their grieving, Lettie couldn't be a "proper wife" and service her husband so he had to go elsewhere. Then when another man kisses her HAND, Luke gets all pissed? I felt like Lettie blamed herself too much and when she WAS angry, it wasn't at the right things. But it was the cheating that made her feel better in the end? Wtf? Like, everything else upset her but THATS what made her decide to fix the marriage? And Luke did nothing to even try to win her back! So I don't know, it rubbed me the wrong way and while I get some parts of it, i wasn't totally thrilled with that part. But this is a Bittner novel we're talking about and I've learned nothing is ever easy.
All in all, a good historical romance that will keep you wanting to see what happens. Believe me, I could have stopped at the point I didn't like, but there was more going on that I needed to know what happened. Very satisfying ending!
Ps.. Edit- I just wanna add i loved the Nathan storyline so much but I do wish they showed him spending more time with Luke and Lettie at the end and showing them grow closer instead of just assuming it.
I enjoyed this book but I have to say, I don't know yet if any of her books can compare to Outlaw Hearts for me! However this was a great story that was a rollercoaster of emotions. My main quibble was Luke cheating and even though it was only once, I hated how it was dealt with and the reasoning. Due to their grieving, Lettie couldn't be a "proper wife" and service her husband so he had to go elsewhere. Then when another man kisses her HAND, Luke gets all pissed? I felt like Lettie blamed herself too much and when she WAS angry, it wasn't at the right things. But it was the cheating that made her feel better in the end? Wtf? Like, everything else upset her but THATS what made her decide to fix the marriage? And Luke did nothing to even try to win her back! So I don't know, it rubbed me the wrong way and while I get some parts of it, i wasn't totally thrilled with that part. But this is a Bittner novel we're talking about and I've learned nothing is ever easy.
All in all, a good historical romance that will keep you wanting to see what happens. Believe me, I could have stopped at the point I didn't like, but there was more going on that I needed to know what happened. Very satisfying ending!
Ps.. Edit- I just wanna add i loved the Nathan storyline so much but I do wish they showed him spending more time with Luke and Lettie at the end and showing them grow closer instead of just assuming it.
February 10, 2017
I'm loving that Rosanne Bittner is starting to put her older novels out in kindle format - and I hope she continues because she writes some of the best historical romance novels I've found! I only read a couple of her books way back when and it wasn't until this year that I rediscovered her and was thrilled to read Wildest Dreams!
One reviewer mentioned that this wasn't much of a romance novel - and I'd have to disagree. Yes, it isn't the typical story where most of the book is dedicated to the falling in love part and ends at the wedding with an epilogue glimpse into the future. You do get to experience the falling-in-love part, however, this book spends most of the time focusing on their lives from the wedding on - and the romance and how their love grows through the years. Trust me, the romance is there and honestly, I enjoy experiencing books where the story continues way past the wedding. That's where true love is forged in steel and where romance blooms to it's fullest. Luke and Lettie are two of my favorite RB characters and this book will always remain on my keeper shelf! How they work together to build their family and cattle-empire and what they face to make those dreams come true will keep you enthralled from the first sentence to the last page!
One reviewer mentioned that this wasn't much of a romance novel - and I'd have to disagree. Yes, it isn't the typical story where most of the book is dedicated to the falling in love part and ends at the wedding with an epilogue glimpse into the future. You do get to experience the falling-in-love part, however, this book spends most of the time focusing on their lives from the wedding on - and the romance and how their love grows through the years. Trust me, the romance is there and honestly, I enjoy experiencing books where the story continues way past the wedding. That's where true love is forged in steel and where romance blooms to it's fullest. Luke and Lettie are two of my favorite RB characters and this book will always remain on my keeper shelf! How they work together to build their family and cattle-empire and what they face to make those dreams come true will keep you enthralled from the first sentence to the last page!
May 2, 2016
This. Book. Is. Way. Too. Long.
It could have easily been broken up until 3 books (or a lot of the repetition could have been edited out for one good sized novel).
The couple "falls in love" in the first 25 pages and we don't even get to see the wedding. For a book that is over 500 pages, would it have killed her to have included some courtship? Perhaps a wedding? Something? He pushes her into agreeing to marry him then suddenly they've made it to Montana.
I dropped off at about 60% because I couldn't take any more. I love to see a rich lifespan shown in a book, but this was ridiculous. So many useless scenes.
It could have easily been broken up until 3 books (or a lot of the repetition could have been edited out for one good sized novel).
The couple "falls in love" in the first 25 pages and we don't even get to see the wedding. For a book that is over 500 pages, would it have killed her to have included some courtship? Perhaps a wedding? Something? He pushes her into agreeing to marry him then suddenly they've made it to Montana.
I dropped off at about 60% because I couldn't take any more. I love to see a rich lifespan shown in a book, but this was ridiculous. So many useless scenes.
April 20, 2012
Rosanne Bittner creates characters that seem so real they stay with you.
This is a story about a love that evolved and changed through the challenges of lifes ups and downs during a time when "civilization" was just being brought to the west.
Anyone who enjoys reading about the difficult times our pioneers had in settling the land would enjoy this book.
This is a story about a love that evolved and changed through the challenges of lifes ups and downs during a time when "civilization" was just being brought to the west.
Anyone who enjoys reading about the difficult times our pioneers had in settling the land would enjoy this book.
Read
December 15, 2022too long and too boring
February 28, 2022
The most important thing about this book was the depth of the characters. This is a long saga about a pioneer family and how difficult it was to inhabit and tame such a wild country. In the early part of America's history, it was interesting to see how many people picked up in the middle of the Civil War (and moved westward) to look for a better life. We often think that the country was immobilized by their concern over the War, but this book shows that many people were not caught up in the war or decided to avoid it altogether.
Because the story continues over many years, the reader sees just how difficult life was. There were problems with the wildlife, weather, rustlers, outlaws, and Indians. The most difficult trial to bear is when an Indian steals Luke and Lettie's first son. Luke searches for him for months until finally, the Sioux chief tells Luke that his son drowned. Ten years later, they find that is not true and it opens a whole new round of grief and difficulty.
I wasn't really in the mood for a long family saga and it took restarting more than once to commit to the story. The depth the author takes readers into the characters' private lives is what sets Rosanne Bittner apart from so many authors. One of the most unique parts of the book was the effort of Nathan (the child stolen by the Sioux) to come back to his family of origin. I've never seen that issue dealt with in such a manner. This makes for an unusual and powerful story. Overall score = 4.5 stars.
Because the story continues over many years, the reader sees just how difficult life was. There were problems with the wildlife, weather, rustlers, outlaws, and Indians. The most difficult trial to bear is when an Indian steals Luke and Lettie's first son. Luke searches for him for months until finally, the Sioux chief tells Luke that his son drowned. Ten years later, they find that is not true and it opens a whole new round of grief and difficulty.
I wasn't really in the mood for a long family saga and it took restarting more than once to commit to the story. The depth the author takes readers into the characters' private lives is what sets Rosanne Bittner apart from so many authors. One of the most unique parts of the book was the effort of Nathan (the child stolen by the Sioux) to come back to his family of origin. I've never seen that issue dealt with in such a manner. This makes for an unusual and powerful story. Overall score = 4.5 stars.
November 28, 2019
I really liked the first part of this book. I loved how the MC actually communicated with one another. They had realistic reactions to their choices and the situations they were faced with.
However as the book went on it felt like the plot was jumping from action to action without stopping the process what happened. I felt like a was reading plot points rather than the full story which seems contradictory given how long this book is.
Ironically I think the book would have been better shorter because as it continues the focus moves from the MC to their children. Overall a good read but I feel the book lost its emotional impact along its way.
3.5 starts
However as the book went on it felt like the plot was jumping from action to action without stopping the process what happened. I felt like a was reading plot points rather than the full story which seems contradictory given how long this book is.
Ironically I think the book would have been better shorter because as it continues the focus moves from the MC to their children. Overall a good read but I feel the book lost its emotional impact along its way.
3.5 starts
April 11, 2021
A great story with great characters!
A story that takes you on many highs and lows in just living life—especially family life. Loved Luke and Lettie. Raising children is hard isn’t it. Trials and trials but much perseverance. I was annoyed a bit with Tyler,the oldest son. Glad he matured finally. I don’t think the Ramona situation was love at all—just a young man driven by the excitement of available sex. I wished we could have heard more about Nathan’s Indian wife, Leena. I would like to have seen her personality and her adjustment.
A story that takes you on many highs and lows in just living life—especially family life. Loved Luke and Lettie. Raising children is hard isn’t it. Trials and trials but much perseverance. I was annoyed a bit with Tyler,the oldest son. Glad he matured finally. I don’t think the Ramona situation was love at all—just a young man driven by the excitement of available sex. I wished we could have heard more about Nathan’s Indian wife, Leena. I would like to have seen her personality and her adjustment.
July 23, 2021
The Saga of Pioneer Life
This book wonderfully encompasses the sagas that early settlers in the American Northwest often faced. And through it all, we are treated to a love so true that it endures through hardships such a outlaw and Indian attacks, the wrath of Mother Nature, and loss of family and friends. We get to follow Luke and Lettie through 25+ years of love and marriage, and rejoice in it growing stronger through those hardships. I would definitely recommend this book.
This book wonderfully encompasses the sagas that early settlers in the American Northwest often faced. And through it all, we are treated to a love so true that it endures through hardships such a outlaw and Indian attacks, the wrath of Mother Nature, and loss of family and friends. We get to follow Luke and Lettie through 25+ years of love and marriage, and rejoice in it growing stronger through those hardships. I would definitely recommend this book.
July 31, 2017
I received a copy of this for free through Goodreads First Reads
I picked this up fully expecting to hate it. I generally do not like historical romance or even historical fiction. I was pleasantly surprised to really enjoy it. Its very rare to find a novel that spans such a long time as this one does, that you don't feel like you've missed anything in the characters lives. Overall a very good read.
I picked this up fully expecting to hate it. I generally do not like historical romance or even historical fiction. I was pleasantly surprised to really enjoy it. Its very rare to find a novel that spans such a long time as this one does, that you don't feel like you've missed anything in the characters lives. Overall a very good read.
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