Trail magic (noun). An unexpected gift bestowed on long-distance hikers.
Raven is two years cancer-free on the day she arrives on the Appalachian Trail, ready to prove to the world that she’s more than just a breast cancer survivor. She’s still Raven, and she’s strong enough to tackle the 2,000-mile journey.
Kit shows up with nothing but a hastily-packed bag and a new pair of hiking boots. When her boss and her girlfriend dump her on the same day, she decides now is as good a time as any to tick the AT off her bucket list.
Trail magic brings Kit and Raven together on the mountain. Raven needs a friend and Kit needs an experienced hiker to guide her.
They share meals, fireside stories, old wounds and new dreams… and a one-man tent in the wilderness.
But can they bring that magic with them off the mountain?
I write stories that explore the thrills – and challenges – of falling in love as a woman-loving woman, including the bestselling Lakeside Hospital medical romance series and Rainbow Award honorable mention The Rules of Love.
My books are for you if you’re a fan of contemporary romance, if you love strong women who aren’t afraid to be vulnerable, and if you like a little heat with your sapphic love stories.
Grab a free copy of Mind Games on my website, CaraMalone.com
3.5 Stars. With my bad luck lately at picking Kindle Unlimited books, I thought I would good for a nice easy romance this time. Plus, I’ve wanted to give one of Cara Malone’s books a go for a while now. I enjoyed this read. Nothing really new of earth shattering here, but it was a nice sweet romance.
This story is about two women, both dealing with their own issues, growing close together as the hike the Appalachian Trail. I don’t know what it is about the AT, maybe because I know I could never hike the whole thing, it’s always fascinated me. I found myself really enjoying the setting of this book. It was obvious Malone did her research.
This is a sweet romance with really only one angst/conflict scene. There is nothing overly exciting or dramatic that goes one. This story is about two women working on themselves, falling in love, and hiking the trail. I don’t always gel with traditional romances. I can get a little bored, but I was never bored here. I found myself thinking, I’ll just read one more chapter, one more, and before I knew it I was finished.
If you are looking for a sweet romance on the AT, give this book a chance. This book was professionally edited and is currently available on KU. I would definitely try reading another of Malone’s books.
Because I pay a monthly fee for Kindle Unlimited, I make damn sure I squeeze in as many as I can a month. However, I don't always rate the not so great ones because A.) I'm kind of lazy and B.) I feel kind of bad giving books low ratings even though I know I shouldn't. Unless the book is utter hogwash, I usually just punt it to that part of my brain labelled "I don't care" land where you will also find housework and the Khardashians.
As Lex wrote in her review, this was a nice, romance book with minimal angst. Both characters have baggage. Real baggage, not bullshit, roll your eyes baggage. I really thought the author did a superb job in regards to Raven's issue which is cancer and i'm not spoiling anything because it is revealed within the first 2 pages of the book. Cancer is certainly a devastating issue but since this is a romance, the author made sure to keep the topic from veering into a depressing read. However, she also kept it in the forefront of Raven's journey. So I thought she maintained a very good balancing act handling this awful disease and it's aftermath.
The read was not a thrill a minute type of read and I don't mean that in a bad way at all. It's simply two people with some issues getting to know one another and hoping to overcome the insecurities that come along with those issues.
A good, well written KU book. I will definitely read some more from this author.
P.S. Like me, some of you want to know if there is sex in a book...so yes there are a few nice sex scenes. Nothing too pervy though(darn)
This was a fun little romance that takes place on the Appalachian Trail. Everything that could possibly summarize this book is already written in the book summary above, so I'll try to control my longwinded-ness.
Raven, a breast cancer survivor, has mapped out and planned her entire journey on the 2,000+ miles of the Appalachian Trail for the last year. On the second anniversary of her cancer-free diagnosis, she begins her journey on the AT in Georgia. A couple hundred miles in, she meets Kit in the Carolinas, who haphazardly decided to wipe the AT off her bucket list and is quite ill prepared for the hike ahead of her. Regardless, initial (physical) sparks fly and Raven and Kit continue the journey together, each with something to offer the other, whether that be Raven’s guidance on the trail or Kit’s free-spirited company.
Both of these characters were highly likable. They each carry their individual scars, the one that Raven is currently running from and the one that Kit has been running from for 5 years. They are both very aware of the emotional burden their pasts have left them with and despite wanting to hold their emotional walls in place, they find it nearly impossible to maintain their masks when they spend 24 hours a day, 7 days a week together. Through their mutual sharing, they grow to respect one another more and more, bond, and begin to fall in love.
I really have few complaints about this book. It was well edited and proofed with relatable characters that I could really feel for. There is one minor dramatic scene, but it felt true to the story even though I just wanted to scream “NO! Stop it, you dummies!” People in books never listen to me, though, so I really should just stop trying. All in all, a pleasant romance with a great background setting.
Because I personally like knowing these things going in: This book is basically PG. There is one sex scene and it’s not overly explicit; every other intimate encounter is FTB.
I really enjoyed this one, Cara Malone is my feel good lesfic author, she brings the right amount of lightness and seriousness to her stories. Lots of heart and soul.
Raven is a 45 year old breast cancer survivor who thinks she is damaged after her battle and wants to trek the entire Appalachian trail in order to find herself. She has been planning it meticulously for a year and has her itinerary set out for the next 6months of the trek.
Kit is very different, at 34 she struggles to be settled, after being let go from her temp job and her girlfriend breaking up with her for being immature, she decides to wing her trek on the Appalachian trail, since she had nothing else to do, or anything else keep her tied down. (We find out a big reason for her lack of commitment in the book, I don't want to spoil it, but she is a sympathetic character despite the initial frivolousness).
Raven and Kit are drawn to eachother, clearly seeing in each what the other lacks and yet find compromising and changing those old habits are harder than they imagine when confronted. They are their own worst enemies in keeping eachother at arms length, despite the blossoming relationship. Both are afraid of hurt and vulnerable to eachothers differences and keep second guessing themselves.
But they learn and grow and find themselves anew in eachother.
I love that we always get a Happily Ever After with Cara Malone. Free on kindle unlimited.
Perfect! Just want I needed! This is a very traditional romance, low angst, and you know pretty much what’s about to happen.
The beautiful part of this story, the plot is set along the Appalachian Trail where the two MCs meet. Both hiking in order to work out their demons and find a greater meaning to life.
I really like both MCs and their chemistry. I only wish there was more to the initial spark. This book was so well researched and well written it didn’t bother me much in the long run.
I’ve even planned a backpacking trip with my wife and dog once I finished! What more could you want from a book?
Read this book in one go today 6/6/18 just couldn’t put it down once I started,loved the way the two main characters were so completely different yet the same.The characters they met along the way especially the frat boys were brilliant,The description of some of the highlights of the AT make me want to try it although it may be a little difficult as I live in uk.A wonderful story about two broken souls who find love when they least expected to.( finished book at time of posting review 23:43)
Originally Posted at The Lesbian Bookworm: I love spending time outdoors camping, hiking, and just overall enjoying nature. I was really drawn to Trail Magic because of the mixture of romance and the thrill of hiking the Appalachian Trail. I read a large section of this book while I was camping. It really helped to add to my enjoyment of the book.
I really enjoyed this book from the moment I picked it up. It really made me want to go camping. The descriptions of the Appalachian Trail and the different points of interest were one of the best aspects of the book. It made it feel like you were really there. I also liked the other hikers that were on the trail. Dodger was my favorite. Even though he was a drunk party boy he has some very wise moments that really add to the story.
I wasn’t sure how I was going to like the romance aspect of this book but in the end, it blew me away. I thought Kits development was phenomenal. I liked how she was so young acting and the reason behind her attitude towards life. It made her such a relatable character. The way she bonded with Raven was very sweet. The book really had a slow burn type of feel, which worked really well. I like how Raven had to overcome her insecurities and open herself up to Kit’s love and affection.
I would recommend this book to anyone who likes outdoorsy romance novels.
Thanks to the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this book.
I know Raven is the character from another of Cara's books and even if I haven't read the Lakeside Hospital series, I really really loved Raven and her story about being a breast cancer survivor was amazing and how her hiking adventure of the AT is wonderful.´
I can relate a little to Raven's insecurities, because even though my wife didn's had breast cancer, she had a double mastectomy last year and it was very hard on both of us; she had reconstructive surgery but she feels like Raven when it comes to the shape of her breast because it was not a succesful surgery and she also has the same indentation as Raven. So it hit pretty close to home and I'm like Kit, telling her that she's beautiful no matter what (because she is). I wish my wife would read the book, I know she would love it, not just for the close situations of her and Raven, but in general.
Now, going back to the book lol, it was an amazing story of self-descovery and how you can find love on the most unexpected places (I know I did). And how you can grow as individuals and as a couple, no matter the situation or how long you've met. You need a little bit of fun and that childish attitude sometimes, that's something I learned this last 3 years of being married.
Can't go wrong with a Cara Malone book and this one, is sweet and it touches your heart
Where to start. This book gave me so much to think about and I just loved to be able to tag along on Raven's and Kit's big journey. It also so desperately made me want to pack up my camping equipment and just start walking. A bit of a mix of Raven's and Kit's approach. Packing up and leaving for the trail sounds utterly tempting after this read. Back to their story. I love how Kit acted around Raven and her insecurities with being naked around her. The entire topic was really well done imho and I loved seeing Raven trust Kit more and more as they spent more time together. The fact that Kit even opened up about her girlfriend and her reasons why she keeps running away and hates being "stuck". Their time apart broke my heart even if it was necessary for them to come to terms with their feelings and everything else that was important to them. Who they are, what they want, what they're afraid of and ultimately why they so desperately want to be with each other. I was actually waiting for Raven to call Kit's parents after a while and when that didn't happen I found myself hoping that somehow Kit would find her way back to the Trail, back to Raven. The epilogue just... my heart. I love them. I love how they keep hiking together and that they moved into a flat together and Kit found a job to keep that keeps her happy.
Now, can I pack up and be one of those thru-hikers?
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Two damaged women, one we understand what brings her to the Appalachian Trail…Raven’s need to find her “new” self. Malone is quite good at giving us the picture of Raven’s inner struggle to become someone more than the daughter and sister who had breast cancer. Malone’s physical descriptions of the famous Trail and traditions seem all too real, for someone who has never been there. Kit, on the other hand…we think we know her story from what we believe is her worst day. Kit loses her temp job and girlfriend all in one day and depending on how good or bad either of those could be…losing both on the same day just has to suck! So, Kit also takes to the Appalachian Trail for some solitude and perhaps even reflection. Later, we learn that Kit has much deeper wounds that need a little magic touch, also. It’s possible there is such a thing as “trail magic”, and then again, maybe it is just the opportunity to see yourself and the world in a different light. Whatever it could be, this story is magical in itself. It gives you an escape into the world of nature, and with characters that will all transport you to the end having felt you walked the journey with them. An excellent book for any day of the week, or time of year.
One thing I really like about Cara Malone's writing, is that she's not afraid to broach difficult topics, and she does so with sensitivity. In the case of Trail Magic, we have a character, Raven, who wants others to see beyond the fact that she is a cancer survivor. Over the course of the book, Raven is revealed to have spent so much time reassuring others that she was going to be fine, that no one realized she needed the same reassurance. Raven, Kit, and the various side characters, namely Dodger, are developed with a tenderness and humor that makes Trail Magic a real page turner. I've never before read a book set on the Appalachian Trail, and it was an interesting experience. The ups and downs in the relationship between Raven and Kit feels natural and true to their characters. This is definitely a book that I would recommend. Trail Magic was provided to me free of charge. My review is given voluntarily.
A great read!! Ms. Malone's characters have depth and feel very real, and I very much enjoyed them. Her dialog is easy to read and flows well. The research on her subject matter seems to have served her well, as the setting and logistics of a thru-hike on the Appalachian Trail feel real and accurate. The story isn't forced, with characters being pushed together, but rather, they ebb and flow as two individuals coming together in a real life similar situation might. Well written, proofread, and edited lesbian fiction isn't always easy to come by in self publishing, but this one is a great success on all fronts. I would highly recommend this book for a relaxing, summer read that just might make you think a bit!
This book is magic. I loved this “opposites attract” romance. Raven and Kit are two people who feel they are broken. They meet on the Appalachian Trail and begin to heal each other. Not without some drama though. I felt very satisfied with how it all came together. I was very interested in learning about what it takes to hike the AT. It’s remarkable and was a very enjoyable aspect of the book. The romance, the characters they meet on the trail, the trail lore, all make a book worthy of your time. I listened to the audiobook version, narrated by Nym Kingsley. Nym was wonderful and I’d listen to other books they narrate.
This book was so realistic that I felt like I was hiking the AT alongside Kit and Raven. There are so many things that I liked about this book. First, the characters were realistic and flawed, each trying to set aside their past. Second, the descriptions in this book were a highlight that I learned so much about hiking and the AT trail. I also loved Kit and Raven's trail names and the Band of Merry Men who kept them entertained. The book had me laughing, crying, and thoughtfully considering life's options. A true winner!
Raven had meticulously planned her walk of the Appalachia Trail from start to finish. As a breast cancer survivor she wanted to prove herself and find a new self in the mountains. Just outside Asheville, NC, she meets Kit, a spontaneous act-first and plan-later woman. After an unlikely bond develops, they decide to walk together. What develops over the next two months is just a bit of trail magic but will it vanish in the mountain mist? A story of survival and romance.
Raven wants to show herself and her family that she is more than just a cancer survivor. Kit does not want to settle down for fear of it being ripped away from her lime it was before. These two women consider themselves damaged when they meet up on the trail. Kit needs Raven's knowledge and Raven needs Kit's free spirit for adventure. They journey isn't easy and mistakes are made. I loved taking this journey with them, the trail magic is contagious. The story is well written and you can just picture yourself on the trail with them. Nym Kingsley did a nice job narrating this book.
A truly wonderful story about two women who are perfect for each other, if only they can get out of their own heads and realize what is really important in life. The details about the Appalachian Trail are fantastic, as are the various interactions with hikers along the way. The way Kit's personal issue that has her so messed up is revealed after gradually demonstrating the fact that she is just as troubled as Raven is brilliant.
I thought this was a lovely read. I've always been fascinated by the Appalachian Trail although I'll never take 6 months to hike it. It's obvious the author did her research. She hit a lot of the highlights and I very much enjoyed reading about the sights, towns and other hikers. The love story was touching and I really liked that the characters felt real with real problems. One of the better KU books I've read.
Cara Malone is becoming one of my favorite author. This is the second book I have read of hers. I have never went on any type of hike and still have no desire to. But I could go if I was reading this book again. Kit and raven were written well as was the storyline. Thank you Cara for another great adventure. I definitely recommend this book.
This is a very well written story about trying to find one's self after a devastating illness, and ultimately finding the love we all seek: unconditional love. The characters are well developed and the storyline flows from the pages and right into your heart. This book belongs on your must read list.
The characters were great and easy to get to know. I’m used to great characters and romance from Cara, but this one was so full of information. I feel like I know about hiking the AT now. Also, I’m from the area at the beginning of the AT and she perfectly describes the trail towns along that part.
This was my first book by this author and I'll definitely check out more. Lots of good things going on in this book; age gap (women in their mid 30's/40's), good chemistry with some steamy parts, a breast cancer survivor and a HEA to name a few. Looking forward to more.
I really liked this book as it presents a realistic look at camping. Being from Montana, I grew up camping. My family took a summer vacation just about every year and we tent camped for most of them. You do get a whole new view when you spend some time just reveling in the wonders around you in nature.
Raven is survivor and after several years of chemical and physical therapy she has enough. Eager to conquer the AT she sets in Georgia and finds a younger woman in North Carolina. Both ladies are mind set of overcoming their own demons. Who wins? Enjoy!
Loved the story of Raven and Kit hiking the AT. It was great how they balanced each other out. The other characters in the story were also great. I enjoyed reading TRAIL MAGIC and recommend it.
I absolutely loved this book. It made me want to strap on.... my hiking boots and head for the trails. Super cute story, nicely written characters, and a great balance of romance, a storyline, and my favorite, NATURE! loved this one.
Appalachian Trail is hope for Raven and spontaneous for Kit. The two meet and make their way through the six month journey. Cara Malone pairs these two together fabulously. It was an adventure to follow along.
Cara's books are like a delicious bite of cake. Perfectly sweet. Slightly predictable. But sexy and fun. I really enjoyed the Appalachian Trail storyline, having grown-up near the trail. One weird and unnecessary line of fat shaming right at the beginning knocked off a star.