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Wilderness Hearts #1
Love's New Beginning
Loss took everything, love gave him even more.
It's 1800 Philadelphia, and the city cowers before a mysterious killer—Yellow Fever. Daniel Armitage and his family are respected members of Philadelphia society. But their status cannot save Daniel’s loved ones. His entire family succumbs to the horrifying disease. His mother’s startling deathbed confession, shakes Daniel to his soul. Another man is really his father. His search for his real father takes him to Kentucky—the edge of the frontier. Seeking a father with a different last name, he is now considered an illegitimate bastard and is scorned by everyone, even himself. Except for the people who matter the most—his true father Daniel "Bear" MacKay and Ann Byrd. Captivated by her beauty and fierce independence, Daniel seeks to court Ann but her father won't allow her near a man born out of wedlock. The humiliation of illegitimacy subjects Daniel to social and legal discrimination. And ruthless, back-stabbing Charles Snyder is obsessed with having Ann for himself. Snyder terrorizes Daniel’s new family and the entire town. Bear’s act of unequivocal love grants Daniel a chance for happiness. But only Ann’s courage can save it.
"Dorothy Wiley takes you on an action-packed adventure on the Kentucky Frontier in this enthralling tale of self-discovery, finding true love, and the meaning of family." – Peggy L. Henderson, Bestselling Historical Romance Author
"Wiley's writing has such realism that I am transported to Kentucky and that time period as I read and feel I know the characters well!" – JoAnne Weiss, Romancing the Book Reviewer
It's 1800 Philadelphia, and the city cowers before a mysterious killer—Yellow Fever. Daniel Armitage and his family are respected members of Philadelphia society. But their status cannot save Daniel’s loved ones. His entire family succumbs to the horrifying disease. His mother’s startling deathbed confession, shakes Daniel to his soul. Another man is really his father. His search for his real father takes him to Kentucky—the edge of the frontier. Seeking a father with a different last name, he is now considered an illegitimate bastard and is scorned by everyone, even himself. Except for the people who matter the most—his true father Daniel "Bear" MacKay and Ann Byrd. Captivated by her beauty and fierce independence, Daniel seeks to court Ann but her father won't allow her near a man born out of wedlock. The humiliation of illegitimacy subjects Daniel to social and legal discrimination. And ruthless, back-stabbing Charles Snyder is obsessed with having Ann for himself. Snyder terrorizes Daniel’s new family and the entire town. Bear’s act of unequivocal love grants Daniel a chance for happiness. But only Ann’s courage can save it.
"Dorothy Wiley takes you on an action-packed adventure on the Kentucky Frontier in this enthralling tale of self-discovery, finding true love, and the meaning of family." – Peggy L. Henderson, Bestselling Historical Romance Author
"Wiley's writing has such realism that I am transported to Kentucky and that time period as I read and feel I know the characters well!" – JoAnne Weiss, Romancing the Book Reviewer
334 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 25, 2016
528 people are currently reading
264 people want to read
About the author
Dorothy Wiley
24 books142 followersDOROTHY WILEY
Storyteller of Love and Heroes on the American Frontier and the Scottish Highlands.
Amazon bestselling novelist Dorothy Wiley is an award-winning, multi-published author of Medieval Scottish and American Historical Romance. Wiley’s novels blend vivid historical elements and thrilling action with the romance of a moving love story to create exceedingly engaging page-turners. Her exceptional historical romances, inspired by history and true events, have won numerous awards, and have more than 8,500 five-star reader reviews on Amazon.
Her first two series, the American Wilderness and Wilderness Hearts Series are set on the American frontier when Kentucky was the West. Her third series, Wilderness Dawning, continues the highly acclaimed Wyllie family saga but brings some of the family to the new edge of the West—the Province of Texas. Wiley's fourth series, Wilderness Valor, returns some family members to Kentucky where they join heroes with extraordinary courage.
Wiley’s novel LETTERS OF FIRE AND SWORD, set in Medieval Scotland, merges Scotland’s gut-wrenching history with extraordinary fiction and was the #1 NEW RELEASE IN MEDIEVAL HISTORICAL ROMANCE when it was released.
This gripping tale is a gut-wrenching historical romance with realistic depictions of the past, a courageous king and his knights, and women willing to fight for what they cherish.
Her books’ timeless messages of family and loyalty are both raw and honest. As she skillfully unravels a compelling tale, the author’s complex characters come alive and are joined by a memorable ensemble of friends and family.
Wiley’s novels have won numerous awards, notably a Western Writers of America Finalist; a Will Rogers Medallion Award Finalist; RONE Award Finalist; Laramie Award Finalist; Chatelaine Romantic Fiction Finalist; Amazon Breakthrough Novel Award Quarter-finalist; a Readers’ Favorite Gold Medal; USA Best Book Awards Finalist; and a Historical Novel Society Editor’s Choice. Her books continue to earn five-star ratings from readers and high praise from reviewers.
Wiley attended college at The University of Texas in Austin. She graduated with honors, receiving a bachelor of journalism, and grew to dearly love both Texas and a 7th-generation Texan, her husband Larry. Her husband’s courageous ancestors, early pioneers of Kentucky and Texas, provided the inspiration for American Wilderness novels and Wiley's own Scots ancestors inspired her Scottish novels. After a distinguished career in corporate marketing and public relations, Wiley is living her dream—writing novels that touch the hearts of her readers.
Each book is a stand-alone, full-length, tastefully romantic novel. All of Wiley's titles are enrolled in Kindle Unlimited and are available in print, eBooks, and saudiobooks at www.amazon.com/author/dorothywiley.
If you have read Wiley's books, she would greatly appreciate a short review on the book’s Amazon page.
AMERICAN WILDERNESS SERIES - Wyllie family brothers
Book One – WILDERNESS TRAIL OF LOVE
Book Two – NEW FRONTIER OF LOVE
Book Three – WHISPERING HILLS OF LOVE
Book Four – FRONTIER HIGHLANDER VOW OF LOVE
Book Five – FRONTIER GIFT OF LOVE
Book Six – THE BEAUTY OF LOVE
WILDERNESS HEARTS SERIES - Wyllie brothers and their grown children
Book One – LOVE’S NEW BEGINNING
Book Two – LOVE’S SUNRISE
Book Three – LOVE'S GLORY
Book Four – LOVE'S WHISPER
WILDERNESS DAWNING - The Texas Wyllie Brothers Series
Book One – RED RIVER RIFLES
Book Two – LAND OF STARS
Book Three – BUCKSKIN ANGEL
Book Four – LAND OF HEROES
MEDIEVAL SCOTLAND
– LETTERS OF FIRE AND SWORD
WILDERNESS VALOR
Book One - SHERIFF'S VALOR
CONNECT with Dorothy:
Join Wiley’s readers' list to sign up for her infrequent newsletter and you can send her a note under the Contact tab on her website dorothywiley.com.
Facebook: DorothyMayWiley
BookBub: Author Dorothy Wiley
Storyteller of Love and Heroes on the American Frontier and the Scottish Highlands.
Amazon bestselling novelist Dorothy Wiley is an award-winning, multi-published author of Medieval Scottish and American Historical Romance. Wiley’s novels blend vivid historical elements and thrilling action with the romance of a moving love story to create exceedingly engaging page-turners. Her exceptional historical romances, inspired by history and true events, have won numerous awards, and have more than 8,500 five-star reader reviews on Amazon.
Her first two series, the American Wilderness and Wilderness Hearts Series are set on the American frontier when Kentucky was the West. Her third series, Wilderness Dawning, continues the highly acclaimed Wyllie family saga but brings some of the family to the new edge of the West—the Province of Texas. Wiley's fourth series, Wilderness Valor, returns some family members to Kentucky where they join heroes with extraordinary courage.
Wiley’s novel LETTERS OF FIRE AND SWORD, set in Medieval Scotland, merges Scotland’s gut-wrenching history with extraordinary fiction and was the #1 NEW RELEASE IN MEDIEVAL HISTORICAL ROMANCE when it was released.
This gripping tale is a gut-wrenching historical romance with realistic depictions of the past, a courageous king and his knights, and women willing to fight for what they cherish.
Her books’ timeless messages of family and loyalty are both raw and honest. As she skillfully unravels a compelling tale, the author’s complex characters come alive and are joined by a memorable ensemble of friends and family.
Wiley’s novels have won numerous awards, notably a Western Writers of America Finalist; a Will Rogers Medallion Award Finalist; RONE Award Finalist; Laramie Award Finalist; Chatelaine Romantic Fiction Finalist; Amazon Breakthrough Novel Award Quarter-finalist; a Readers’ Favorite Gold Medal; USA Best Book Awards Finalist; and a Historical Novel Society Editor’s Choice. Her books continue to earn five-star ratings from readers and high praise from reviewers.
Wiley attended college at The University of Texas in Austin. She graduated with honors, receiving a bachelor of journalism, and grew to dearly love both Texas and a 7th-generation Texan, her husband Larry. Her husband’s courageous ancestors, early pioneers of Kentucky and Texas, provided the inspiration for American Wilderness novels and Wiley's own Scots ancestors inspired her Scottish novels. After a distinguished career in corporate marketing and public relations, Wiley is living her dream—writing novels that touch the hearts of her readers.
Each book is a stand-alone, full-length, tastefully romantic novel. All of Wiley's titles are enrolled in Kindle Unlimited and are available in print, eBooks, and saudiobooks at www.amazon.com/author/dorothywiley.
If you have read Wiley's books, she would greatly appreciate a short review on the book’s Amazon page.
AMERICAN WILDERNESS SERIES - Wyllie family brothers
Book One – WILDERNESS TRAIL OF LOVE
Book Two – NEW FRONTIER OF LOVE
Book Three – WHISPERING HILLS OF LOVE
Book Four – FRONTIER HIGHLANDER VOW OF LOVE
Book Five – FRONTIER GIFT OF LOVE
Book Six – THE BEAUTY OF LOVE
WILDERNESS HEARTS SERIES - Wyllie brothers and their grown children
Book One – LOVE’S NEW BEGINNING
Book Two – LOVE’S SUNRISE
Book Three – LOVE'S GLORY
Book Four – LOVE'S WHISPER
WILDERNESS DAWNING - The Texas Wyllie Brothers Series
Book One – RED RIVER RIFLES
Book Two – LAND OF STARS
Book Three – BUCKSKIN ANGEL
Book Four – LAND OF HEROES
MEDIEVAL SCOTLAND
– LETTERS OF FIRE AND SWORD
WILDERNESS VALOR
Book One - SHERIFF'S VALOR
CONNECT with Dorothy:
Join Wiley’s readers' list to sign up for her infrequent newsletter and you can send her a note under the Contact tab on her website dorothywiley.com.
Facebook: DorothyMayWiley
BookBub: Author Dorothy Wiley
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 65 reviews
January 3, 2017
Great, clean read. There were a few things that weren't completely believable but overall it was a pure escapist joy!
June 7, 2017
4 and ½ Stars - Charming Tale of Love on in Kentucky when it was “the West”
In the ship bringing Daniel MacKay to Nova Scotia, the 13-year-old boy loses both his father and mother to sickness. Comforted by Margaret MacDonald, the two young ones make love and a child is conceived. Turned away by Margaret’s father, Daniel grants his dying mother’s wish and travels to New Hampshire to make his living as a hunter. There he meets the Wyllie family and they adopt him as one of the Wyllie brothers and give him the nickname “Bear”.
Years later, it's 1800 and the child of their one night of love has grown up, unbeknownst to MacKay. In Philadelphia, Daniel Armitage loses his entire family to Yellow Fever. On her deathbed, his mother, Margaret, tells him his real father is Daniel MacKay. She urges Daniel to find him. Stunned, Daniel agrees and sets off on a long journey that takes him to Kentucky—the “West” at the time.
In Kentucky, Daniel meets his real father, “Bear”, now a respected frontiersman, and he meets a young woman, Ann Byrd, the daughter of the officer in charge of the fort. Daniel seeks to court Ann, but her father won't allow it because Daniel is a bastard. In the background lurks a sniveling coward, Charles Snyder, the bank owner’s son, who wants Ann for himself.
This is a charming story of love on America’s frontier with lots of historical details reflecting the author’s considerable research into the era. I loved the scenery and the homespun nature of the relationships. I loved the sense of building a future in a new country. There are some exciting scenes, too, as Snyder makes his presence known.
One caveat: I do recommend reading the author’s Wilderness Series first as all the characters in that series are in this one and, if you don’t know their stories, what they look like, etc., you might be confused.
The Wilderness Series:
Wilderness Trail of Love (Stephen and Jane)
New Frontier of Love (Sam and Catherine)
Whispering Hills of Love (William and Kelly)
Frontier Highlander Vow of Love (Bear and Artis)
Frontier Gift of Love (apparently more of Sam and Catherine)
The Beauty of Love (Edward and Dora)
In the ship bringing Daniel MacKay to Nova Scotia, the 13-year-old boy loses both his father and mother to sickness. Comforted by Margaret MacDonald, the two young ones make love and a child is conceived. Turned away by Margaret’s father, Daniel grants his dying mother’s wish and travels to New Hampshire to make his living as a hunter. There he meets the Wyllie family and they adopt him as one of the Wyllie brothers and give him the nickname “Bear”.
Years later, it's 1800 and the child of their one night of love has grown up, unbeknownst to MacKay. In Philadelphia, Daniel Armitage loses his entire family to Yellow Fever. On her deathbed, his mother, Margaret, tells him his real father is Daniel MacKay. She urges Daniel to find him. Stunned, Daniel agrees and sets off on a long journey that takes him to Kentucky—the “West” at the time.
In Kentucky, Daniel meets his real father, “Bear”, now a respected frontiersman, and he meets a young woman, Ann Byrd, the daughter of the officer in charge of the fort. Daniel seeks to court Ann, but her father won't allow it because Daniel is a bastard. In the background lurks a sniveling coward, Charles Snyder, the bank owner’s son, who wants Ann for himself.
This is a charming story of love on America’s frontier with lots of historical details reflecting the author’s considerable research into the era. I loved the scenery and the homespun nature of the relationships. I loved the sense of building a future in a new country. There are some exciting scenes, too, as Snyder makes his presence known.
One caveat: I do recommend reading the author’s Wilderness Series first as all the characters in that series are in this one and, if you don’t know their stories, what they look like, etc., you might be confused.
The Wilderness Series:
Wilderness Trail of Love (Stephen and Jane)
New Frontier of Love (Sam and Catherine)
Whispering Hills of Love (William and Kelly)
Frontier Highlander Vow of Love (Bear and Artis)
Frontier Gift of Love (apparently more of Sam and Catherine)
The Beauty of Love (Edward and Dora)
July 1, 2020
My review was originally posted on Romancing-the-Book.com and is below:
Love's New Beginning by Dorothy Wiley is the first book in her new Wilderness Hearts Romance series and it did not disappoint. It's as well written and captivating as her American Wilderness Series Romances, which consists of six books. Love's New Beginning continues the story of the Wyllies, Bear and the many characters we've met before along with the new characters we meet whom only add another level to the story.along with the settling of the West and the frontier in Kentucky all taking place in the early 1800's.
This is Daniel and Ann's story and what a story it is. There are so many twists and turns which all starts with the prologue that sets the stage of what's to come. Daniel is Bear's son that he never knew he had. Daniel is in his twenties and was brought up by his mom and stepfather in Philadelphia who have died from yellow fever along with his younger brother. It wasn't until his mother was on her deathbed that she told Daniel who he really was and that his dad as he knew him was his stepfather. She gave him a few clues of his biological dad's life, how they met, why they weren't together and where he could start looking for him but there wasn't much to go on especially since it had happened over twenty years ago. The clues did help but only because of Daniel's perseverance and Bear is glad he did! As Daniel learns more about his new family will he be able to shed the genteel life he led in Philadelphia for the unknown and sometimes harshness of the frontier?
There are so many layers not only to the characters but also to the storylines. The past was interwoven with the present and no detail was too small. All the information we were given had a bearing on the story and sometimes more than one. Daniel had to deal with adversity in his new life especially when it came to his interest in Ann since an unsavory character whose dad owned the only bank in town felt he had declared his interest first and that he would be marrying her. Charles was as unscrupulous as they come but there was never enough evidence of his taunts and acts to punish him the way he deserved to be. Who will win out in the end?
My emotions were engaged throughout not only as Daniel meets the relatives he didn't know he had but also as they each embrace him as part of their family and he learns to do the same. Watching his turmoil and his sometimes hesitancy was heartbreaking but each time he became more entrenched with his dad, stepmom, the Wyllies's and Ann's family was heartwarming. As we learn more about him it was easy to see how his past shaped him into the man we meet.
The importance of family and good friends is an important theme throughout all the author's books but this one even more so with stepparents, adoptions, memories of loved ones that have been lost and the hardships they still need to endure even with settlements in Kentucky already in place. The love and friendships shine through and those with an evil bent stand out even more. There's an easing to their grief when they all come together to be there for one another. There is love and romance, along with some happily ever afters. The epilogue provided nice closure and tied up most of the loose ends but left me wanting more. I can't wait to be back in Kentucky and see what the characters will be up against next. The interesting facts behind this story in the back of the book did provide some history of some of the happenings in the story and gave links to additional information if a reader wants to learn more.
Wiley is one of my favorite authors and I jumped at the chance when she asked if I would read and review the book for her. All seven of her books have received a five star rating from me. The setting of the new frontier is not only one of my favorite periods in history but Wiley's writing has such realism that I am transported to Kentucky and that time period as I read and feel I know the characters well!
Love's New Beginning by Dorothy Wiley is the first book in her new Wilderness Hearts Romance series and it did not disappoint. It's as well written and captivating as her American Wilderness Series Romances, which consists of six books. Love's New Beginning continues the story of the Wyllies, Bear and the many characters we've met before along with the new characters we meet whom only add another level to the story.along with the settling of the West and the frontier in Kentucky all taking place in the early 1800's.
This is Daniel and Ann's story and what a story it is. There are so many twists and turns which all starts with the prologue that sets the stage of what's to come. Daniel is Bear's son that he never knew he had. Daniel is in his twenties and was brought up by his mom and stepfather in Philadelphia who have died from yellow fever along with his younger brother. It wasn't until his mother was on her deathbed that she told Daniel who he really was and that his dad as he knew him was his stepfather. She gave him a few clues of his biological dad's life, how they met, why they weren't together and where he could start looking for him but there wasn't much to go on especially since it had happened over twenty years ago. The clues did help but only because of Daniel's perseverance and Bear is glad he did! As Daniel learns more about his new family will he be able to shed the genteel life he led in Philadelphia for the unknown and sometimes harshness of the frontier?
There are so many layers not only to the characters but also to the storylines. The past was interwoven with the present and no detail was too small. All the information we were given had a bearing on the story and sometimes more than one. Daniel had to deal with adversity in his new life especially when it came to his interest in Ann since an unsavory character whose dad owned the only bank in town felt he had declared his interest first and that he would be marrying her. Charles was as unscrupulous as they come but there was never enough evidence of his taunts and acts to punish him the way he deserved to be. Who will win out in the end?
My emotions were engaged throughout not only as Daniel meets the relatives he didn't know he had but also as they each embrace him as part of their family and he learns to do the same. Watching his turmoil and his sometimes hesitancy was heartbreaking but each time he became more entrenched with his dad, stepmom, the Wyllies's and Ann's family was heartwarming. As we learn more about him it was easy to see how his past shaped him into the man we meet.
The importance of family and good friends is an important theme throughout all the author's books but this one even more so with stepparents, adoptions, memories of loved ones that have been lost and the hardships they still need to endure even with settlements in Kentucky already in place. The love and friendships shine through and those with an evil bent stand out even more. There's an easing to their grief when they all come together to be there for one another. There is love and romance, along with some happily ever afters. The epilogue provided nice closure and tied up most of the loose ends but left me wanting more. I can't wait to be back in Kentucky and see what the characters will be up against next. The interesting facts behind this story in the back of the book did provide some history of some of the happenings in the story and gave links to additional information if a reader wants to learn more.
Wiley is one of my favorite authors and I jumped at the chance when she asked if I would read and review the book for her. All seven of her books have received a five star rating from me. The setting of the new frontier is not only one of my favorite periods in history but Wiley's writing has such realism that I am transported to Kentucky and that time period as I read and feel I know the characters well!
April 17, 2017
Great story
You will like the story and characters I think. The writing is good and not many typos. I will be buying more of this writer's books. I like the way she wove facts in with fiction and the story is long enough to develop the characters.
You will like the story and characters I think. The writing is good and not many typos. I will be buying more of this writer's books. I like the way she wove facts in with fiction and the story is long enough to develop the characters.
April 17, 2017
Wonderful
This is one of the best western books that I have ever read. A wonderful story of family, love and mystery. Please read.
This is one of the best western books that I have ever read. A wonderful story of family, love and mystery. Please read.
March 20, 2017
This is like another new season in the continuing saga of the Wyllie Brothers and their families in the new territory of Kentucky during the early 1800s. I’ve read all six books of The American Wilderness Series and thoroughly enjoyed each one. This first book in the Wilderness Hearts series is equal to the others. “Love’s New Beginning” introduces us to the new character of Bear’s illegitimate son, Daniel, and the unusual circumstances of his birth.
Daniel Armitage is given some disturbing news by his mother on her deathbed: the father that has raised him for 20+ years is not his biological father. She gives him enough information to find this first love of her life, and tells Daniel to go find him. Daniel promises and his mother dies. Now Daniel’s father, brother and mother have all died of Yellow Fever and he is devastated.
With that promise to his mother, Daniel sets out to find his biological father, Daniel “Bear” Alexander MacCay. The quest takes him from Boston to New Hampshire where he discovers Bear moved on to Kentucky. So off he goes to satisfy the promise he made to his beloved mother.
The story centers on young Daniel and his newfound father, Bear. Along with Bear comes his big welcoming family, a beautiful young lady that steals his heart, and the nastiness of those who alienate him as a bastard. No, not an easy time for him!
A totally surprised Bear welcomes Daniel and takes him into his family, treating him as a son, with absolute unconditional love. Bear gives his son some wise advice on pg. 38: “ ‘Ye need na explain. We all understand,’ Bear said. ‘Life just took ye for a hell of a ride. But if ye can manage to stay in the saddle, you just might like where that ride ends up.’”
I enjoy Dorothy Wiley’s writing and appreciate the way she ties in actual history with her stories. Her good characters are honorable and admirable, and her bad characters are among the most despicable - makes for such a good plot! (By the end I am anxiously awaiting sweet revenge…) The Wyllie Brothers’ stories of perseverance, hope and courage during the early time of America’s ‘west’ gives me a good glimpse of life during a challenging time in our country’s history. Well done, yet again Dorothy Wiley!
P.S. I absolutely suggest all her books should be read in order. It makes the experience so much richer.
Daniel Armitage is given some disturbing news by his mother on her deathbed: the father that has raised him for 20+ years is not his biological father. She gives him enough information to find this first love of her life, and tells Daniel to go find him. Daniel promises and his mother dies. Now Daniel’s father, brother and mother have all died of Yellow Fever and he is devastated.
With that promise to his mother, Daniel sets out to find his biological father, Daniel “Bear” Alexander MacCay. The quest takes him from Boston to New Hampshire where he discovers Bear moved on to Kentucky. So off he goes to satisfy the promise he made to his beloved mother.
The story centers on young Daniel and his newfound father, Bear. Along with Bear comes his big welcoming family, a beautiful young lady that steals his heart, and the nastiness of those who alienate him as a bastard. No, not an easy time for him!
A totally surprised Bear welcomes Daniel and takes him into his family, treating him as a son, with absolute unconditional love. Bear gives his son some wise advice on pg. 38: “ ‘Ye need na explain. We all understand,’ Bear said. ‘Life just took ye for a hell of a ride. But if ye can manage to stay in the saddle, you just might like where that ride ends up.’”
I enjoy Dorothy Wiley’s writing and appreciate the way she ties in actual history with her stories. Her good characters are honorable and admirable, and her bad characters are among the most despicable - makes for such a good plot! (By the end I am anxiously awaiting sweet revenge…) The Wyllie Brothers’ stories of perseverance, hope and courage during the early time of America’s ‘west’ gives me a good glimpse of life during a challenging time in our country’s history. Well done, yet again Dorothy Wiley!
P.S. I absolutely suggest all her books should be read in order. It makes the experience so much richer.
November 2, 2016
Loved it! Dorothy Wiley's new book in her second series was intriguing and thought-provoking and explores both the hardships and struggles of frontier life as well as its social injustices. It is a captivating romance that introduces her newest couple, the gallant hero Daniel and the charming beauty Dora. But in addition to this fateful, romantic love story, Dorothy's characters encounter another kind of love, the undeniable bond between a father and son who meet for the first time. Love's New Beginning brings back the lovable Bear character from her first series, who you just want to hug every time he enters a room. The circumstances of how Daniel meets his father is truly fun to read and inexplicably makes you want to cry and smile at the same time. The book also has plenty of the despicable characters and nail-biting events that make it yet another fun ride through the early frontier. What happens next in this new series? I for one, can't wait to find out. I'm sure her next book will unfold yet another interesting set of circumstances and cast of characters that make you appreciate and love the American frontier and the people that helped build it.
October 29, 2016
A Lot of Changes
There were a lot of changes in the lives of the characters. The other was full of conflict and hard choices. The author kept it exciting. Through it all was the message of the importance of family. Well-written.
There were a lot of changes in the lives of the characters. The other was full of conflict and hard choices. The author kept it exciting. Through it all was the message of the importance of family. Well-written.
September 28, 2016
Recommend this book
Loved this book couldn't put it down. Family, adventure, really drew you into the story, made you upset at times wondering what else could happen.
Loved this book couldn't put it down. Family, adventure, really drew you into the story, made you upset at times wondering what else could happen.
October 11, 2019
Reviewed by JoAnne
Book provided by the author
Love's New Beginning by Dorothy Wiley is the first book in her new Wilderness Hearts Romance series and it did not disappoint. It's as well written and captivating as her American Wilderness Series Romances, which consists of six books. Love's New Beginning continues the story of the Wyllies, Bear and the many characters we've met before along with the new characters we meet whom only add another level to the story.along with the settling of the West and the frontier in Kentucky all taking place in the early 1800's.
This is Daniel and Ann's story and what a story it is. There are so many twists and turns which all starts with the prologue that sets the stage of what's to come. Daniel is Bear's son that he never knew he had. Daniel is in his twenties and was brought up by his mom and stepfather in Philadelphia who have died from yellow fever along with his younger brother. It wasn't until his mother was on her deathbed that she told Daniel who he really was and that his dad as he knew him was his stepfather. She gave him a few clues of his biological dad's life, how they met, why they weren't together and where he could start looking for him but there wasn't much to go on especially since it had happened over twenty years ago. The clues did help but only because of Daniel's perseverance and Bear is glad he did! As Daniel learns more about his new family will he be able to shed the genteel life he led in Philadelphia for the unknown and sometimes harshness of the frontier?
There are so many layers not only to the characters but also to the storylines. The past was interwoven with the present and no detail was too small. All the information we were given had a bearing on the story and sometimes more than one. Daniel had to deal with adversity in his new life especially when it came to his interest in Ann since an unsavory character whose dad owned the only bank in town felt he had declared his interest first and that he would be marrying her. Charles was as unscrupulous as they come but there was never enough evidence of his taunts and acts to punish him the way he deserved to be. Who will win out in the end?
My emotions were engaged throughout not only as Daniel meets the relatives he didn't know he had but also as they each embrace him as part of their family and he learns to do the same. Watching his turmoil and his sometimes hesitancy was heartbreaking but each time he became more entrenched with his dad, stepmom, the Wyllies's and Ann's family was heartwarming. As we learn more about him it was easy to see how his past shaped him into the man we meet.
The importance of family and good friends is an important theme throughout all the author's books but this one even more so with stepparents, adoptions, memories of loved ones that have been lost and the hardships they still need to endure even with settlements in Kentucky already in place. The love and friendships shine through and those with an evil bent stand out even more. There's an easing to their grief when they all come together to be there for one another. There is love and romance, along with some happily ever afters. The epilogue provided nice closure and tied up most of the loose ends but left me wanting more. I can't wait to be back in Kentucky and see what the characters will be up against next. The interesting facts behind this story in the back of the book did provide some history of some of the happenings in the story and gave links to additional information if a reader wants to learn more.
Wiley is one of my favorite authors and I jumped at the chance when she asked if I would read and review the book for her. All seven of her books have received a five star rating from me. The setting of the new frontier is not only one of my favorite periods in history but Wiley's writing has such realism that I am transported to Kentucky and that time period as I read and feel I know the characters well!
Book provided by the author
Love's New Beginning by Dorothy Wiley is the first book in her new Wilderness Hearts Romance series and it did not disappoint. It's as well written and captivating as her American Wilderness Series Romances, which consists of six books. Love's New Beginning continues the story of the Wyllies, Bear and the many characters we've met before along with the new characters we meet whom only add another level to the story.along with the settling of the West and the frontier in Kentucky all taking place in the early 1800's.
This is Daniel and Ann's story and what a story it is. There are so many twists and turns which all starts with the prologue that sets the stage of what's to come. Daniel is Bear's son that he never knew he had. Daniel is in his twenties and was brought up by his mom and stepfather in Philadelphia who have died from yellow fever along with his younger brother. It wasn't until his mother was on her deathbed that she told Daniel who he really was and that his dad as he knew him was his stepfather. She gave him a few clues of his biological dad's life, how they met, why they weren't together and where he could start looking for him but there wasn't much to go on especially since it had happened over twenty years ago. The clues did help but only because of Daniel's perseverance and Bear is glad he did! As Daniel learns more about his new family will he be able to shed the genteel life he led in Philadelphia for the unknown and sometimes harshness of the frontier?
There are so many layers not only to the characters but also to the storylines. The past was interwoven with the present and no detail was too small. All the information we were given had a bearing on the story and sometimes more than one. Daniel had to deal with adversity in his new life especially when it came to his interest in Ann since an unsavory character whose dad owned the only bank in town felt he had declared his interest first and that he would be marrying her. Charles was as unscrupulous as they come but there was never enough evidence of his taunts and acts to punish him the way he deserved to be. Who will win out in the end?
My emotions were engaged throughout not only as Daniel meets the relatives he didn't know he had but also as they each embrace him as part of their family and he learns to do the same. Watching his turmoil and his sometimes hesitancy was heartbreaking but each time he became more entrenched with his dad, stepmom, the Wyllies's and Ann's family was heartwarming. As we learn more about him it was easy to see how his past shaped him into the man we meet.
The importance of family and good friends is an important theme throughout all the author's books but this one even more so with stepparents, adoptions, memories of loved ones that have been lost and the hardships they still need to endure even with settlements in Kentucky already in place. The love and friendships shine through and those with an evil bent stand out even more. There's an easing to their grief when they all come together to be there for one another. There is love and romance, along with some happily ever afters. The epilogue provided nice closure and tied up most of the loose ends but left me wanting more. I can't wait to be back in Kentucky and see what the characters will be up against next. The interesting facts behind this story in the back of the book did provide some history of some of the happenings in the story and gave links to additional information if a reader wants to learn more.
Wiley is one of my favorite authors and I jumped at the chance when she asked if I would read and review the book for her. All seven of her books have received a five star rating from me. The setting of the new frontier is not only one of my favorite periods in history but Wiley's writing has such realism that I am transported to Kentucky and that time period as I read and feel I know the characters well!
February 23, 2020
Wilderness Trail of Love; Love’s New Beginning by Dorothy Wiley
Very good book, I have read so many books like this one, I’m beginning to want to read others, but Dorothy Wiley did an excellent job on this one. I feel as if I should read other books based on something else. But, I. still want to read Misty Beller. I will be on my 109 th book this year now, since March 2019 so I have to read till I get to March 2020. I have read so many books in my life. I’m sure it’s been so many, I can’t count. I’m 76 years old and that is a lifetime of books. Not all were fiction. Some nonfiction., mostly historical books!
Very good book, I have read so many books like this one, I’m beginning to want to read others, but Dorothy Wiley did an excellent job on this one. I feel as if I should read other books based on something else. But, I. still want to read Misty Beller. I will be on my 109 th book this year now, since March 2019 so I have to read till I get to March 2020. I have read so many books in my life. I’m sure it’s been so many, I can’t count. I’m 76 years old and that is a lifetime of books. Not all were fiction. Some nonfiction., mostly historical books!
September 23, 2017
Another brilliant tale!
I don't know how Dorothy does it. Her books are just amazing! The detail, the internal struggles, the trials the frontiersmen and women endure, the pure evil of some people, and the courage and love of others are magnificently portrayed in all of her books! If you didn't enjoy history before reading her stories, you'll soon become an addict to her style of historical romantic fiction! If you're already a history buff, you'll discover new reasons to dig deeper and explore more! Brilliantly entertaing and engaging!!
I don't know how Dorothy does it. Her books are just amazing! The detail, the internal struggles, the trials the frontiersmen and women endure, the pure evil of some people, and the courage and love of others are magnificently portrayed in all of her books! If you didn't enjoy history before reading her stories, you'll soon become an addict to her style of historical romantic fiction! If you're already a history buff, you'll discover new reasons to dig deeper and explore more! Brilliantly entertaing and engaging!!
January 30, 2021
I have to slow down my reading!
I downloaded this book early one morning. I was going to give myself a break and the first few chapters would be my break. That break turned into the first 25% of the book. I loved Daniel and Ann's story and how Bear is such an important part of the story. Me Wiley weaves a tale of days go by and brings us to the birth of our nation with all it's perils. I love the Willey family and each additional book we learn more about their struggle and the love that keeps them strong. I can't wait to read more of their lives. Enjoy!
I downloaded this book early one morning. I was going to give myself a break and the first few chapters would be my break. That break turned into the first 25% of the book. I loved Daniel and Ann's story and how Bear is such an important part of the story. Me Wiley weaves a tale of days go by and brings us to the birth of our nation with all it's perils. I love the Willey family and each additional book we learn more about their struggle and the love that keeps them strong. I can't wait to read more of their lives. Enjoy!
June 21, 2017
Sweet read. A journey of self discovery & unexpected nurturing of new familial bonds.
The dying confession of a young society man's mother turns his life in turmoil & puts his elevated position in peril. He vows to fulfill his mother's request to find his natural father. This quest takes him from the ballrooms of Philadelphia to the frontier in Boonesborough, Kentucky.
It was a reasonable story. However, I felt the system unjust with the corrupt banker, sleazy son & Co.
The dying confession of a young society man's mother turns his life in turmoil & puts his elevated position in peril. He vows to fulfill his mother's request to find his natural father. This quest takes him from the ballrooms of Philadelphia to the frontier in Boonesborough, Kentucky.
It was a reasonable story. However, I felt the system unjust with the corrupt banker, sleazy son & Co.
February 18, 2020
I absolutely love this entire series! I had already read the other books and was delighted to finally read Book 1. Dorothy’s writing style grabs your attention immediately and holds you until the last word. Every character is well developed and are easily identified with.
This series is loosely based on her husband’s family and that adds authenticity to each book.
Please keep writing! I look forward to being able to read more of your works.
This series is loosely based on her husband’s family and that adds authenticity to each book.
Please keep writing! I look forward to being able to read more of your works.
May 16, 2022
Amazingly, wonderful read from beginning to the end.
I love reading this authors books, she is a talented writer and everyone of her books grab your interest and keeps it throughout the entire book.
She keeps her characters full of life and entertainment, the Wiley women are all spicey.
There is never a dull moment in her books. You will feel each characters pain, joy and love as the series goes on you find yourself becoming attached to each character.
I love reading this authors books, she is a talented writer and everyone of her books grab your interest and keeps it throughout the entire book.
She keeps her characters full of life and entertainment, the Wiley women are all spicey.
There is never a dull moment in her books. You will feel each characters pain, joy and love as the series goes on you find yourself becoming attached to each character.
June 17, 2017
Love's New Beginning
Gee I agree a little history of the area that the story is written sure helps the reader to really get into the story. And of course the story to go with the history part really helped to get into the lives of Daniel and Ann. What a beautiful love story that was written by Dorothy Wiley.
Gee I agree a little history of the area that the story is written sure helps the reader to really get into the story. And of course the story to go with the history part really helped to get into the lives of Daniel and Ann. What a beautiful love story that was written by Dorothy Wiley.
June 23, 2017
Love's New Beginning!
This is a beautifully written book! I love a book that pulls me in on the first page. It has a wonderful storyline, a beautiful romance that leaves you sighing, characters you love and enough angst to make you keep turning the pages to the end. Already preordered the next one, Love's Sunrise. JudyE
This is a beautifully written book! I love a book that pulls me in on the first page. It has a wonderful storyline, a beautiful romance that leaves you sighing, characters you love and enough angst to make you keep turning the pages to the end. Already preordered the next one, Love's Sunrise. JudyE
September 26, 2017
I enjoy reading historical novels. I feel truly transported to the era in history and it provides a fabric woven around the characters making them and their stories more relatable. I thoroughly
Enjoyed this book and can't wait to start on "Loves Sunrise" & then to read the "Wilderness" series.. Thank you!
Enjoyed this book and can't wait to start on "Loves Sunrise" & then to read the "Wilderness" series.. Thank you!
December 19, 2018
Rich in history
Romance and adventure in Kentucky. Nicely worked story of a young man seeking his real father, and finding love, in Kentucky. A little predictable. Excellent historical detail, although I found the cast of characters far too complex, even with the explanatory notes provided (seems the author thought so too, hence the notes).
Romance and adventure in Kentucky. Nicely worked story of a young man seeking his real father, and finding love, in Kentucky. A little predictable. Excellent historical detail, although I found the cast of characters far too complex, even with the explanatory notes provided (seems the author thought so too, hence the notes).
January 27, 2019
Another winner....
I have read all of this author's books so far and each one of them has been special to each character in the storyline in this series and has brought me to tears. Loved reading about Bears background and how his son came about, another wonderful story that brought me to tears. Can't wait to read the next book in this series.
I have read all of this author's books so far and each one of them has been special to each character in the storyline in this series and has brought me to tears. Loved reading about Bears background and how his son came about, another wonderful story that brought me to tears. Can't wait to read the next book in this series.
March 22, 2020
Love Conquers All
So much happens in this story that you definitely know where the phrase," The wild frontier" came from. Daniel had to learn about a whole different way of living as well as following the law. Bears phrases will have you laughing and his fierce protective skills for his family are amazing~
So much happens in this story that you definitely know where the phrase," The wild frontier" came from. Daniel had to learn about a whole different way of living as well as following the law. Bears phrases will have you laughing and his fierce protective skills for his family are amazing~
May 15, 2017
Enjoyable
Enjoyable!
This was an enjoyable book. An easy read for anyone who enjoys historical fiction.
Enjoyable
The book is an easy read. ...very
enjoyable!!
I would recommend highly.
Enjoyable!
This was an enjoyable book. An easy read for anyone who enjoys historical fiction.
Enjoyable
The book is an easy read. ...very
enjoyable!!
I would recommend highly.
November 26, 2017
Lovely tale
This was a beautiful story set in a wonderful time, and in a wonderful setting, with equally wonderful, vibrant characters. And that is why I dropped a star. Too perfect.
This was a beautiful story set in a wonderful time, and in a wonderful setting, with equally wonderful, vibrant characters. And that is why I dropped a star. Too perfect.
March 18, 2018
A family's love
I really liked this book cause it shows how family's can and should be to each other.It also had enough drama in it to keep your interest up.It was a great historical romance.I would recommend this book for anyone.
I really liked this book cause it shows how family's can and should be to each other.It also had enough drama in it to keep your interest up.It was a great historical romance.I would recommend this book for anyone.
May 16, 2018
Beginning
We have a Bully in the beginning of this Book! Trouble as we enter Kentucky as a long lost Son finds his way Home. Finds the Love of a good Woman and the Bully! Your part of this Book, it will draw you in. Once again I give this Read a 5🌟 rating, a great series to Read.
We have a Bully in the beginning of this Book! Trouble as we enter Kentucky as a long lost Son finds his way Home. Finds the Love of a good Woman and the Bully! Your part of this Book, it will draw you in. Once again I give this Read a 5🌟 rating, a great series to Read.
September 6, 2018
New Beginning
This is the first of Ms Wiley’s books I’ve had pleasure in reading. This one was an appealing story of family love and caring for one another. I especially like the fact the story evolves around an historical time and place. Makes the story real.
This is the first of Ms Wiley’s books I’ve had pleasure in reading. This one was an appealing story of family love and caring for one another. I especially like the fact the story evolves around an historical time and place. Makes the story real.
April 28, 2019
There was a lot of depth to this storyline, however, I felt the author just didn’t do it justice. Parts of it were predictable and I felt she missed developing it into what could have been a really great read.
August 24, 2019
Great Read
I have read many of the books about the Wiley family and have enjoyed all of them. This one is every bit as enjoyable as the others. Ancestors of my husband also settled in Kentucky during this time period. That's what led me to begin reading this series.
I have read many of the books about the Wiley family and have enjoyed all of them. This one is every bit as enjoyable as the others. Ancestors of my husband also settled in Kentucky during this time period. That's what led me to begin reading this series.
September 23, 2019
Loves New Beginning
What a wonderfull book. I can relate to the areas mentioned in Kentucky as we spent some time over there and dud travel through the area. Loved yhe entire setting and cannot wait to read more of her books
What a wonderfull book. I can relate to the areas mentioned in Kentucky as we spent some time over there and dud travel through the area. Loved yhe entire setting and cannot wait to read more of her books
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