Love's Sunrise

Wilderness Hearts #2

by Dorothy Wiley

Gabe McGrath has secured the title to his land among the blue-green pastures and rolling hills of 1806 frontier Kentucky. During a violent storm—the second worst night of his life—Gabe seeks shelter at the home of a nearby cattleman and meets the man’s stunning, strong-willed daughter, Martha Wyllie.

Burdens of grief and a desire for justice stand in the way of Gabe’s happiness. And Martha holds a sacred, secret promise deep in her heart that makes her deny her attraction to the handsome neighbor. While Gabe heroically confronts both the haunting tragedies of the past and the ruthless and wide-ranging violence of a brutal gang, Martha must make a heartrending choice between keeping her word and following her heart.

LOVE’S SUNRISE is a riveting historical romance teeming with action and brimming with emotional realism. Dorothy Wiley, an Amazon bestselling and award-winning author, has artfully written a memorable story that will touch your heart.

AMERICAN WILDERNESS SERIES
Book One -WILDERNESS TRAIL OF LOVE
Book Two - NEW FRONTIER OF LOVE
Book Three - WHISPERING HILLS OF LOVE
Book Four - FRONTIERHIGHLANDER VOW OF LOVE
Book Five - FRONTIER GIFT OF LOVE
Book Six - THE BEAUTY OF LOVE

WILDERNESS HEARTS SERIES
Book One - LOVE'S NEW BEGINNING
Book Two - LOVE'S SUNRISE
Book Three - Releasing winter 2017!

Each book is a stand alone, full-length novel featuring a different couple. For those who enjoy reading an entire series, you may want to start with Book One - WILDERNESS TRAIL OF LOVE.

Genres: Historical Romance, Historical, Romance, Historical Fiction, Westerns

280 pages, Paperback

Published June 24, 2017

About the 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

Reviews

[Tabatha Pope · Rating 5 out of 5]

LOVE'S SUNRISE is a wonderful and emotional journey. As the love grows between the two main characters, Gabe and Martha, each must deal with their own secrets and resolve inner conflicts. Set in 1800's Kentucky, the frontier offers a magnificent setting for the trials and tribulations of this couple's journey to love. Although part of a series, this book reads as a stand-alone, making you want to know more about the rest of the Wilderness Hearts series and characters.

Highly recommended.

[Marlene · Rating 5 out of 5]

Tears, fears and triumph; plus, diligent story-telling not found in most books. This author continues to amaze her fans with heart-stopping adventure, historical feats and meaningful romance. This book is the long-ago lifetime with its harsh demands on people in Kentucky where the west “ended” as Lewis and Clarke took on the historic adventures to the Pacific. The Willie family of strong hearted brothers, is the foundation of Love’s Sunrise as the next generation follows their dreams, find lifetime partners and build their homes. Events in this story will take your breath away and yet you can’t stop reading. I absolutely loved it!

As Gabe watched his Martha walk toward him to be wed, “He wished she (his Mom) could have been here to cry at his wedding, as all mothers seem to do.” And I cried….

[Judy Esposito · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love's Sunrise! Book 2

I thoroughly enjoyed this second book in the series and will be buying book 3 when available. Filled with adventure, romance, and characters you can't but love. Enjoyed following to a HEA. JudyE

[crystal d price · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love it!

Thank you for writing such beautiful stories. I especially love the characters. They are all men with great qualities and love for family.

[Romancing the Book · Rating 5 out of 5]

Reviewed by JoAnne
Book provided by the author

Tears, anger, laughter and fear are some of the emotions that I felt while reading Love's Sunrise .  Reuniting with the Wyllie family and their offspring along with meeting newcomer Gabe McGrath was heartwarming and I felt I was home once again in the wilderness of Kentucky.  There are conflicts and loss, especially with the gang of murderers and thieves led by Laughing Luke Smith, but such is life in that area.  How Stephen, Sam, Gabe and William deal with them show what upstanding citizens they are even if they don't want to follow the letter of the law.  The interactions between the gang and Stephen's family was heartbreaking and filled with fear but also resilience and calm.   Martha, only eighteen years old, has a good head on her shoulders and has committed her young life to caring for her family. She would do anything to protect them and shows us what she's made of.

She and Gabe have an instant chemistry when they meet in her home during a powerful storm when Gabe is feeling at his lowest due to a string of bad luck and circumstances involving his family's move west.  Martha tries to avoid him and discourage him as best she can but others are trying to make her see reason since they can see the feelings they have for one another.  Seeing them take one step forward and several back was both heart wrenching and sad.  Martha didn't want to take the advice of her dad, her aunt or her younger sister regarding her feelings and what was best for her but only she knows why she's so adamant in her stance.

The camaraderie and the love between the families was beautiful to watch.  One is more generous and open than the next and it was wonderful to see how much they love and care for each other and always have each other's back.  The descriptions of the scenery, the land, the weather, the homes, the inn, the horses and cows along with the town of Boonesborough and its inhabitants and even the savagery made me feel that I was there.  The story is action packed but flows smoothly from one page to the next and kept me turning the pages far into the night.  There is nice closure but also hints of what's to come in future books which only made me smile. There are several happily-ever-afters in which instinct plays a major role along with love.

Wiley is one of my favorite authors of historical romance.  Her books are set in the wilderness of the West as America pushes westward.  Love's Sunrise is set in Kentucky in the spring of 1806 and didn't disappoint.  The flow of the story and the multidimensional characters live up to her high standards and the bar she has set with her previous six novels in the American Wilderness series and her previous book in the Wilderness Hearts series.  I for one can't wait to read more of her books!

[Patti · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have enjoyed every one of Dorothy Wiley’s wilderness adventures and this one is no exception. I have read them in order and that is the absolute best way to experience the extensive Wyllie story.

This adventure introduces young Gabe McGrath who happens to be the neighbor of Sam Wyllie and his four children. (Revolutionary war hero Sam Wyllie & his wife Jane’s story was the intro book of American Wilderness series) Their eldest daughter, lovely 18 yr. old Martha, made a secret promise to her dying mother that has her turning down potential suitors. 21 yr. old neighbor Gabe, is a handsome and very brave young man that has endured a terrible family tragedy. How Gabe overcomes his obsession of justice for his murdered parents is an obstacle that is foremost in his mind. Both young people have hurdles to overcome before their feelings can surface and go forward. The adventure is tense; the love story is sweet.

In her usual fashion, author Dorothy Wiley makes her villains really, really bad. We readers have no trouble wishing the worst for them. The Wyllie families are courageous, upstanding and fair, which is admirable in the wild west of Kentucky, 1806. Fascinating to shadow those brave people who helped establish our nation.

Dorothy Wiley’s books are based on characters (some are her husband’s ancestors) that had the guts to brave the Wild West, as well as expand this great country of ours. I learn something new from each book and anxiously wait whatever installment of the Wyllie Family is next on the agenda.

Well done yet again, Dorothy Wiley!

[Mary Yarde · Rating 5 out of 5]

Gabe McGrath has had more than his share of grief in his life, but he has finally secured the title to his land. If only he could see the men who murdered his parents brought to justice then maybe he would, at last, find peace.

Martha Wyllie made a promise to her dying mother many years ago, and she is determined to never go back on her word. Even if it means sacrificing her own happiness.

When Martha meets Gabe, she realizes that this is a man whom she could spend the rest of her life with, but if she declared her love, then she would break her promise and that she would not do.

Rich with historical detail, realistic characters and a memorable plot, Love's Sunrise: An American Historical Romance by Dorothy Wiley is a sit-down and finish book.

Ms. Wiley had brought 19th Century Kentucky back to life with her descriptive language and beautiful prose. I simply could not put this story down.

I adored the characterisation of both Gabe and Martha, they were very real in the telling, and they were very believable characters, each with their own set of problems but drawn together because of love.

If you are looking for a good historical romance, full of detail and filled with page-turning action then Love's Sunrise: An American Historical Romance is the book for you.

I Highly Recommend.

[Hanna · Rating 3 out of 5]

Has a lot going for it but...

This author appears to have done her historical research for the period in which she sets this. In many places she uses wonderfully descriptive language, a switch from action-driven stories that could be set anywhere and almost any time. The characters are engaging as well.

The plot is very predictable though, and the editing seems to get worse as the book progresses. I detest sentence fragments and cringe at missing and misplaced commas. (I know comma placement can be arbitrary, but some places need them.) This indie author shows promise but without the guidance of professional editing will not, in my estimation, reach her potential. Then again, as an award winner in the indie publishing world, maybe she doesn't need to.

[Megan · Rating 3 out of 5]

Sweet Adventure 3.5 Stars

Obviously well researched story of Kentuckian families, their lives and loves. Some descriptive passages are breathtaking and feel very real. Let down, in my opinion, by often wooden conversation and pedantic repetition of some details and character motivation. The action sequences were most welcome! The story flows nicely, the outcomes predictable but satisfying and editing well done. Bottom line, enjoyable. But only if your preference regarding character interaction is for a solid diet of sweetness and light. Easily digested, and can be read as a standalone.

[jane pearson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loves's Sunrise

A brilliant western romance with action murder trust love and patient's making this story very intriguing. Gabe and Martha hero and heroine both wonderful characters and as the story unfolds you watch their troubled relationship bloom. I loved all the characters created by this author and the way the story opens up when a murderous gang are roaming there territory on a killing spree and how the good characters overcome the rather unsavoury ones this was what life would of been like in proper western times and this author has caught my attention I will definitely read more of.

[Tammy Rolle · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Saga Continued

If you were fortunate enough to read the American Wilderness series, this is the perfect continuation. The books are lengthy, but well worth the time. Martha and Gabe's story is wonderful stand alone, but it also revisits the McCoy family from the American Wilderness series. Martha is Stephen's oldest child who too over her family's care when their mother, Jane passed from complications during childbirth. I am looking forward to the second generation's stories, and maybe even Stephen's new adventures as he heads west.

[Margie Vickers · Rating 5 out of 5]

Brave men and women settling the new area of Kentucky loving and living hard.

The Willey family settled in Kentucky to raise cattle and horses. This is the story of their love, romance, living and raising a family. It the story of a young man who looses alot but finds happiness with a settlers daughter. It has a great storyline and characters, it has a great family as part of the backup characters. It was so good I read it in 2 settings, it's a real page Turner. I highly recommend it to anyone who is a western genre reader.

[Debbie Odachowski · Rating 5 out of 5]

I can't get enough of this series.

I love Ms. Wiley's books. One gets drawn into the story and puts you in another place and time. You will love Gabe and Martha 's story. The struggles that they endure shows the strength of the American pioneers. Her characters are a reminder of the perils all those who helped settle this country went through. I do enjoyed the journey back in time.The Willey family continues to amaze me in their strength and determination to tame the wild west. Enjoy!

[Gina Ann · Rating 5 out of 5]

A heartfelt story.......

As I started reading this next book in this series a lump started in my throat after the reading the names of Stephens children, the last one Stephen Jr., four years old. Why oh why did his soul mate have to dye in child birth? I get way to attached to the characters in this series and Stephen & Jane was one of them. No more main characters passing away please.... love Martha and Gabe's storyline, can't wait to continue with the rest of the series.

[E Oygard · Rating 4 out of 5]

More in the family saga.

Again the storyline of the Wylie family continues with Stephen's daughter Martha who meets Gabe McGrath. The usual characters in the family are there also to add adventure, although one is sadly missing.
The usual ruffians supply the dastardly deeds. This story left me with the feeling that this united family will separate in the future which I dread as I have come to like all the characters, but I presume life on the frontier was like that for many.

[Peggy Gibbons · Rating 5 out of 5]

ENJOYABLE READING

Love's Sunrise is a very delightful book depicting frontier lives in Kentucky. Very exciting during a period of outlaws causing terrible actions against the homesteaders. Just when you think it is heading toward a happy ending, all heck strikes again. It is beautifully written drawing the reader in, letting wonderful feelings to emerge through the reading of Dorothy Wiley's words.

[Delena constant · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sunrise

From the first few sentences a path was beginning to make you very much part of this Book. The People were introduced and made you part of their life in the 1800's. A wonderful Love Story of Family, Hard times, loss and New 💘.I recommend this Book and read the interesting History covered y Dorothy Wiley at the End.
A 5🌟 Book

[Charlene Davis · Rating 5 out of 5]

Definitely Historical Fiction

Bad guess, good guys, love, marriage. Life in general goes on in this well written exciting romance. What always amazes me in these types of books is I can't imagine living without in door plumbing, store bought clothes and forget electronics but worse is if plucked a couple from that time to current.

[Charles E · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wonderful

I so enjoyed reading this story. I have lived in Madison Indiana with Kentucky being just across the river for quite a while. Reading of the history of Kentucky is fascinating. The people who came and settled there were so strong and had a true passion for their families. A truly heart warming story. God bless you for your talent

[InD'tale Magazine · Rating 5 out of 5]

A remarkable story, "Love's Sunrise" uses all of its pages to play out the rich plot development.

Read full review in the 2017 July/August issue of InD'tale Magazine.

[C. · Rating 5 out of 5]

A very powerful book!!

That honeymoon! Oh my! I'd hate to give to much away, but I laughed I cried! What a wonderful book! I believe Gabe IS an angel! A very powerful book about a person's true destiny and righteousness overcoming evil! I can't wait for the next book!!!!

[Tressia Avellar · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely loved this book!! The author had me in tears at one point, laughing at another.....and wishing I could move to the areas she describes in the book! I look forward to reading more from her in the future. Thank you for the free book, I LOVED it.

[Janet · Rating 3 out of 5]

Nice follow up to 1st.

My sisters will enjoy this Western tale rich with period history. The ranch life in Kentucky seems so familiar that I felt homesick for the smells of ranch life as we knew it.

[Crystal · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love this series of books. I felt involved. Dorothy Wiley surrendered knows how to spin a tale! I was sad when it ended.

Love this series of books. I felt involved. Dorothy Wiley sure knows how to spin a tale! I was sad when it ended.

[teresa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Historical fiction at it's best

Absolutely a great book. The history is entertaining. The characters so real you can reach out and touch them. As in all history, there's adventure, danger, love,heartache and family. I will definitely be following this author.

[Gail · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoy Dorothy Wiley's writing, and Love's Sunrise is no exception. Interesting historical details and description, and it was fun becoming reacquainted with the ever growing Wyllie family once again. Also great read as a stand alone. I highly recommend this book.

[Casey · Rating 5 out of 5]

An excellent read

The history and in depth research, the attention-holding writing all make this series a 'must read'.
It feels a bit petty to be pointing out the incorrect usage of further for farther and the few instances of poorly chosen descriptive words.

[Catherine · Rating 5 out of 5]

History and Romance

A very love filled story with strong family ties as well as an educational leaning. Sweet story appropriate for most ages. Terrifying section regarding a Kansas tornado. Easy author to follow. Thank you very much.

[Mary Stockwell · Rating 4 out of 5]

Outstanding

This is a very compelling story. It has everything a book needs to hold the reader's interest. Love, tragedy, action, adventure and a smidge of humor. The family dynamics are very interesting.

[Donna Ransdell · Rating 5 out of 5]

Must read!

Story after adventurous story, I get so involved with the characters and their lives, that I go back in time and live it with them! As this Wiley family grows, I thank Dorothy for her God given talent that she shares with her readers!