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The Oregon Series #1
Backwards to Oregon
Lesbian: Historical Fiction: Romance - Pages: 521 Words: 140,000 -
"Luke" Hamilton has always been sure that she'd never marry. She accepted that she would spend her life alone when she chose to live her life disguised as a man.
After working in a brothel for three years, Nora Macauley has lost all illusions about love. She no longer hopes for a man who will sweep her off her feet and take her away to begin a new, respectable life.
But now they find themselves married and on the way to Oregon in a covered wagon, with two thousand miles ahead of them.
16 pages, Audible Audio
First published January 1, 2007
200 people are currently reading
5930 people want to read
About the author
Jae
127 books3,805 followersJae is the author of twenty-six award-winning romances between women. She lives in the sunniest city of Germany, near the French and Swiss borders. The writing bug bit her at the age of eleven.
She used to work as a psychologist but gave up her day job in 2013 to become a full-time writer and a part-time editor. As far as she’s concerned, it’s the best job in the world.
When she’s not writing, she is an avid reader of sapphic books, indulges her ice cream and office supply addictions, and watches way too many crime shows.
She used to work as a psychologist but gave up her day job in 2013 to become a full-time writer and a part-time editor. As far as she’s concerned, it’s the best job in the world.
When she’s not writing, she is an avid reader of sapphic books, indulges her ice cream and office supply addictions, and watches way too many crime shows.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 425 reviews
October 25, 2017
This is a review for the new revised October 2017 edition. I’m a big fan of Jae’s. I believe I have read maybe 9 of her stories, and I have really enjoyed 8 of them. That is a pretty impressive percentage when you think about it. I trust her writing and if she puts a book out, I will read it. While I have read a lot of her books, I haven’t read some of her older classics. When I saw YLVA was releasing this new version, it gave me the kick I needed to finally read this story. Historical-fiction can be hit or miss for me. Luckily, this was a hit and I now know why so many people enjoyed this story.
Luke has been living as a man since she was 12. After a commission in the Army, she wants to migrate west and participate in the Oregon Land Grant. The US was giving away more than 150 acres to any man who wished to settle in Oregon. If the man was married, the wife could get acres also. Before the trip, Luke meets a prostitute in her friend’s brothel. Nora has been working in a brothel for 3 years. As a single mother, it is the only works she can find. When she meets a man (Luke) who asks her to marry him, and move to Oregon, she realizes this may be her chance to give her daughter a better life. Can Luke and Nora survive the trail, and the lie Luke is hiding?
Jae is always very good at writing characters. This book was no exception. Both Luke and Nora are wonderful and extremely likeable. I even enjoyed Nora’s daughter Amy and watching Luke trying to become a father. It is interesting, if this book took place in current times, I would not consider Luke a butch lesbian. Luke has been living as a man for years and is very comfortable. I started to think I would consider Luke as a transgendered male, but I think it would more correct to say that Luke would be considered gender-neutral (genderqueer). While they are comfortable being a man, there are still connections to being a woman.
The romance is very slow burn. For the most part I don’t care for insta love, so I appreciate a slower, get to really know you romance. I’m a little torn in thinking this was almost too slow, to thinking it was realistic giving the circumstances. The sex scene was very sweet, and intimate. I thought it was well done, I just could have used a little more passion; a little more heat in their connection. I think that is what is stopping me from rating this book 5 stars. I do want to make clear that I did still enjoy the romance.
It is obvious Jae did a ton of research for this book. The setting is incredible and you absolutely believe you are on the Oregon Trail right with them. I was really impressed.
When the book ended, it left me wanting more. That is always a sign of a really good book to me. What was nice is at the end of this book, YLVA included a short called A Rooster's Job. It was nice to get a peek into their lives now. It made it so I have to read the sequel to this book. If you are a Jae fan and have not read some of her earlier classic books, this is a great place to start. There is a reason why so many people love this book, it really is that good.
This book was given to me by YLVA, for a honest review.
Luke has been living as a man since she was 12. After a commission in the Army, she wants to migrate west and participate in the Oregon Land Grant. The US was giving away more than 150 acres to any man who wished to settle in Oregon. If the man was married, the wife could get acres also. Before the trip, Luke meets a prostitute in her friend’s brothel. Nora has been working in a brothel for 3 years. As a single mother, it is the only works she can find. When she meets a man (Luke) who asks her to marry him, and move to Oregon, she realizes this may be her chance to give her daughter a better life. Can Luke and Nora survive the trail, and the lie Luke is hiding?
Jae is always very good at writing characters. This book was no exception. Both Luke and Nora are wonderful and extremely likeable. I even enjoyed Nora’s daughter Amy and watching Luke trying to become a father. It is interesting, if this book took place in current times, I would not consider Luke a butch lesbian. Luke has been living as a man for years and is very comfortable. I started to think I would consider Luke as a transgendered male, but I think it would more correct to say that Luke would be considered gender-neutral (genderqueer). While they are comfortable being a man, there are still connections to being a woman.
The romance is very slow burn. For the most part I don’t care for insta love, so I appreciate a slower, get to really know you romance. I’m a little torn in thinking this was almost too slow, to thinking it was realistic giving the circumstances. The sex scene was very sweet, and intimate. I thought it was well done, I just could have used a little more passion; a little more heat in their connection. I think that is what is stopping me from rating this book 5 stars. I do want to make clear that I did still enjoy the romance.
It is obvious Jae did a ton of research for this book. The setting is incredible and you absolutely believe you are on the Oregon Trail right with them. I was really impressed.
When the book ended, it left me wanting more. That is always a sign of a really good book to me. What was nice is at the end of this book, YLVA included a short called A Rooster's Job. It was nice to get a peek into their lives now. It made it so I have to read the sequel to this book. If you are a Jae fan and have not read some of her earlier classic books, this is a great place to start. There is a reason why so many people love this book, it really is that good.
This book was given to me by YLVA, for a honest review.
April 9, 2025
4.5 stars. I read the 2nd revised edition that went up on Scribd a couple of days ago. I was holding off on this book for a long time now mainly because of the western theme, which I personally don't enjoy. Or at least I didn't enjoy in the past. But now, it was a breath of fresh air and stands out in the ocean of modern-day city-based lesfic. It was also one of the last books by Jae I hadn't read and since I'm a completionist by nature, I have to finish all good books by good authors.
I wasn't disappointed. Backward to Oregon is a great story. It's not really a romance per se and more adventure, drama with romance sprinkled on top of it but that's partly why I enjoyed it so much. Can't say I've read anything similar so far.
Both leading characters were great, their adventures exciting and their history heartbreaking. Let's all be thankful we don't live in those times, but it sure does make a good book.
Overall, a really exciting read worth your time. Give it a try!
I wasn't disappointed. Backward to Oregon is a great story. It's not really a romance per se and more adventure, drama with romance sprinkled on top of it but that's partly why I enjoyed it so much. Can't say I've read anything similar so far.
Both leading characters were great, their adventures exciting and their history heartbreaking. Let's all be thankful we don't live in those times, but it sure does make a good book.
Overall, a really exciting read worth your time. Give it a try!
November 22, 2021
I think I'm one of the last to read "Backwards to Oregon" but now I see why everyone seems to love it so much. I absolutely loved the slowburn of it all. I loved Luke and Nora separately and together, however, I do wish there was more oomph to the their relationship. I didn't love the addition of one character and his constant threats...even after he was gone I found his whole presence unnecessary and a little contrived for some additional drama.
High praise to Jae for her research and all the small details she added. It made this really enjoyable and held my attention from beginning to end. I highly recommend this one.
High praise to Jae for her research and all the small details she added. It made this really enjoyable and held my attention from beginning to end. I highly recommend this one.
July 12, 2016
Ok, let’s state it from the start: I loved this book.
It has so many things in it.
Somehow, this was for me a real love story, meaning that it explores what love really is – or should be – and how true love can heal (or at least mitigate, transform) the psychological wounds we bear within us.
It also made me think a lot about family roles.
There’s a wonderful, entertaining adventure, with its heroes and bad guys. And the bad guys are odious, violent, abusive. The reader gets to really loathe them. Oh! I wanted them killed!
Again, it is also an accurate, descriptive, historical journey, that you can follow on the Internet, just googling “Oregon trail” and seeing pictures of all the places, the nature, along with the characters, giving substance to the reading dreams.
But the best thing of the novel, for me, is Luke.
Luke is one of those character you see only rarely in literature. I really, truly liked her/him.
The thing is, I myself would like to be like Luke!
Gender means nothing.
She/he is a hero. She/he is the most attentive, devoted husband and a wonderful father. She/he blends masculine and feminine qualities in a balance that I myself strive to achieve. Yes, I identified with Luke!
Someone said Luke is too perfect to be true. Maybe she/he’s a bit ideal. But she/he’s also so human. All she/he does is truly feel for Nora and her daughter, be loyal to them to the cost of sacrificing herself/himself whenever it’s necessary. Sometimes it’s good to read about simple, uncompromising nobility.
On the other side there’s Nora. Abandoned by her family for bearing an illegitimate child, she is a survivor. She resorted to the only mean she can get to ensure a life for herself and her daughter: prostitution.
Even if she is outwardly strong and even successful in her occupation, she is deeply hurt inside by this existence. Daily violence and abuse by men obviously impose a very expensive price in terms of trust, peace of mind, serenity. She became heart hardened in order to cope with that degraded environment.
With the instinctive desire of a man to protect a (charming) woman and her child, Luke decides to bring them with her/him to start a new life. The story then shows the slowly deepening the feelings between Luke and Nora, gradually blossoming into love, along the journey from Missouri to Oregon on the Oregon trail.
Dangers and hardships become the very means for Luke to prove Nora how much she cares of her and her daughter.
For a long time Nora won’t know Luke’s secret. She senses something, but doesn’t really know what it is. Then, she’ll have to deal with the revelation.
At last true love will find the way to their heart and will give them peace and happiness together.
I read, in some of the reviews, objections of the kind “Luke is too mannish” or “this is not a fem/fem romance”.
Now… I like fem/fem romances. Denying it wouldn’t be true.
But I was deeply touched by Luke, and by this story, that, to me, is so much deeper than just a fem/fem romance.
5 stars and favorites.
It has so many things in it.
Somehow, this was for me a real love story, meaning that it explores what love really is – or should be – and how true love can heal (or at least mitigate, transform) the psychological wounds we bear within us.
It also made me think a lot about family roles.
There’s a wonderful, entertaining adventure, with its heroes and bad guys. And the bad guys are odious, violent, abusive. The reader gets to really loathe them. Oh! I wanted them killed!
Again, it is also an accurate, descriptive, historical journey, that you can follow on the Internet, just googling “Oregon trail” and seeing pictures of all the places, the nature, along with the characters, giving substance to the reading dreams.
But the best thing of the novel, for me, is Luke.
Luke is one of those character you see only rarely in literature. I really, truly liked her/him.
The thing is, I myself would like to be like Luke!
Gender means nothing.
She/he is a hero. She/he is the most attentive, devoted husband and a wonderful father. She/he blends masculine and feminine qualities in a balance that I myself strive to achieve. Yes, I identified with Luke!
Someone said Luke is too perfect to be true. Maybe she/he’s a bit ideal. But she/he’s also so human. All she/he does is truly feel for Nora and her daughter, be loyal to them to the cost of sacrificing herself/himself whenever it’s necessary. Sometimes it’s good to read about simple, uncompromising nobility.
On the other side there’s Nora. Abandoned by her family for bearing an illegitimate child, she is a survivor. She resorted to the only mean she can get to ensure a life for herself and her daughter: prostitution.
Even if she is outwardly strong and even successful in her occupation, she is deeply hurt inside by this existence. Daily violence and abuse by men obviously impose a very expensive price in terms of trust, peace of mind, serenity. She became heart hardened in order to cope with that degraded environment.
With the instinctive desire of a man to protect a (charming) woman and her child, Luke decides to bring them with her/him to start a new life. The story then shows the slowly deepening the feelings between Luke and Nora, gradually blossoming into love, along the journey from Missouri to Oregon on the Oregon trail.
Dangers and hardships become the very means for Luke to prove Nora how much she cares of her and her daughter.
For a long time Nora won’t know Luke’s secret. She senses something, but doesn’t really know what it is. Then, she’ll have to deal with the revelation.
At last true love will find the way to their heart and will give them peace and happiness together.
I read, in some of the reviews, objections of the kind “Luke is too mannish” or “this is not a fem/fem romance”.
Now… I like fem/fem romances. Denying it wouldn’t be true.
But I was deeply touched by Luke, and by this story, that, to me, is so much deeper than just a fem/fem romance.
5 stars and favorites.
December 15, 2018
Still keeping it at pure five stars after finishing the re-read of the revised and expanded second edition published by Ylva. This great book is now even better.
April 19, 2019
This book challenged me. For one, I don't like period pieces, westerns, what have you. The description alone had me turning "backwards" from it (see what I did there?)....1850s? No. Traveling in covered wagons for 2000 miles? Nope. Not one mention of coffee? Bullshit. Horses and weird smells and dung? Uh uh. Petticoats and rough clothing and blisters and hardships and portaging and macho asshole men and women being treated like crap? Hell no. And camping? Fuck no. But a friend highly recommended it and encouraged me to give it a chance so I figured why not, as I when I don't get challenged enough in books I can get frustrated as well. So....onwards ho! (I bet that's what they said to the oxen right? Speaking of, why was one named Snow White? She wasn't created until 1938).
The fact Luke was a woman and hiding it in order to live her more true identity was well done, and the author did a good job of creating believable defence mechanisms that helped round out her character (I'm using a female pronoun just for ease, k?). I connected with and liked Luke, she was kind, caring, and honourable. Nora's very real struggle when she finally finds out the truth was interesting as well, and I admired her for getting herself into a completely unknown and possibly dangerous situation in order to give her daughter a better life. And she's a red-head, boom. The characters who were along with the caravan gave added depth to the story with themes of friendship and loyalty, even if those are greatly tested by the revelations along the way, but there's also a heavy degree of angst in the form of two very despicable male characters (they deserve to be on my boat to nowhere along with Nickelback. And Drake. fuck that guy).
The book was well written, no doubt about it, Jae is a good author, though I am not a fan of the excruciating slow burn. But I found the endless journey descriptions so tedious. I played Oregon Trail on a commodore computer back in the day and boy was that fun! And I was great at it! But to read about it....I got real bored. But I realize this opinion is largely due to what I wrote above.
However what would have saved this for me is that I really was hoping for at least some addition of how they started their life once they settled in Oregon, and all we readers get is a short epilogue three years later. Ugh! After endless toils and struggles and dust and birth and shit weather and fucking camping, I really, really hoped for at least a few chapters of them building a home together as a family, details on how they navigated their new community, and a nice solid roll in the (actual) sack and not in a crusty tent on the ground would have been awesome. Having some of the other parts tightened up and shortened in order to include at least some of this would have been preferable. I say this even though I have just learned there are other books in the series, but I don't have much of an urge to pick them up, I just wanted it tied up in one book I guess. I realize that the point of the story was the journey, not the destination (how cliche of me) but that would have increased my rating.
The fact Luke was a woman and hiding it in order to live her more true identity was well done, and the author did a good job of creating believable defence mechanisms that helped round out her character (I'm using a female pronoun just for ease, k?). I connected with and liked Luke, she was kind, caring, and honourable. Nora's very real struggle when she finally finds out the truth was interesting as well, and I admired her for getting herself into a completely unknown and possibly dangerous situation in order to give her daughter a better life. And she's a red-head, boom. The characters who were along with the caravan gave added depth to the story with themes of friendship and loyalty, even if those are greatly tested by the revelations along the way, but there's also a heavy degree of angst in the form of two very despicable male characters (they deserve to be on my boat to nowhere along with Nickelback. And Drake. fuck that guy).
The book was well written, no doubt about it, Jae is a good author, though I am not a fan of the excruciating slow burn. But I found the endless journey descriptions so tedious. I played Oregon Trail on a commodore computer back in the day and boy was that fun! And I was great at it! But to read about it....I got real bored. But I realize this opinion is largely due to what I wrote above.
However what would have saved this for me is that I really was hoping for at least some addition of how they started their life once they settled in Oregon, and all we readers get is a short epilogue three years later. Ugh! After endless toils and struggles and dust and birth and shit weather and fucking camping, I really, really hoped for at least a few chapters of them building a home together as a family, details on how they navigated their new community, and a nice solid roll in the (actual) sack and not in a crusty tent on the ground would have been awesome. Having some of the other parts tightened up and shortened in order to include at least some of this would have been preferable. I say this even though I have just learned there are other books in the series, but I don't have much of an urge to pick them up, I just wanted it tied up in one book I guess. I realize that the point of the story was the journey, not the destination (how cliche of me) but that would have increased my rating.
March 25, 2020
Audiobook narrated by Hayden Bishop
I’ve been hearing about this book for years but somehow never got to read it despite that Jae is one of my favourite authors. I’m not a fan of historical fiction so I thought that ‘Backwards to Oregon’ wouldn’t appeal to me, despite that, I’ve decided to give the audiobook a try. I’m happy that I did because I’ve absolutely loved it.
“Luke” Hamilton lives her life disguised as a man. A former soldier, she quit the army to migrate to Oregon in search of a better life. She only needs a wife to avoid bringing attention to herself so who better than Nora Macauley, a prostitute and mother of a small child? The three of them start a two-thousand-mile journey across the US oblivious to the dangers waiting along the way and unaware of how it will transform their lives.
This is not only a great lesbian historical romance but also a fantastic chronicle of the immigrants’ grueling journey to Western US in search of better opportunities. Jae has done a major research job on almost every single step of this two-thousand-mile journey, with extreme attention to detail. So much so that I could see in my mind’s eye the different characteristics of the landscape, the hardships of the journey and all the work involved in crossing the incredible inhospitable and challenging territories.
‘Backwards to Oregon’ is also a feminist statement, showing the discrimination faced by women in the mid-1800s, times when it was ‘better to be a criminal than a woman’ and when wives were at the total mercy of their husbands. If being a woman in that context was hard, being a lesbian was even harder. This novel is a good reminder of how lucky we are living in our times, and how difficult it still is for lesbians and women in general in some parts of the world.
This audiobook was read by Hayden Bishop who hasn’t narrated much lesfic, which is a pity as she is a truly accomplished performer. I absolutely loved her different voices which were all distinctive and authentic, including every single secondary character. There are a huge number of very demanding scenes, for instance, fights, arguments, childbirth, sex and reflective moments and Ms. Bishop nailed every single one. Colour me absolutely impressed.
There is a number of sequels and prequels to this novel including another audiobook ‘Hidden Truths’ also narrated by Ms. Bishop. I will definitely listen to that one too. If it’s similar to this one, I’ll be even happier. ‘Backwards to Oregon’ gets a very easy 5-star rating from me.
Not available on Audible Escape or Scribd but at a duration of 15 hrs and 30 mins is good value for money.
See all my reviews at www.lezreviewbooks.com
I’ve been hearing about this book for years but somehow never got to read it despite that Jae is one of my favourite authors. I’m not a fan of historical fiction so I thought that ‘Backwards to Oregon’ wouldn’t appeal to me, despite that, I’ve decided to give the audiobook a try. I’m happy that I did because I’ve absolutely loved it.
“Luke” Hamilton lives her life disguised as a man. A former soldier, she quit the army to migrate to Oregon in search of a better life. She only needs a wife to avoid bringing attention to herself so who better than Nora Macauley, a prostitute and mother of a small child? The three of them start a two-thousand-mile journey across the US oblivious to the dangers waiting along the way and unaware of how it will transform their lives.
This is not only a great lesbian historical romance but also a fantastic chronicle of the immigrants’ grueling journey to Western US in search of better opportunities. Jae has done a major research job on almost every single step of this two-thousand-mile journey, with extreme attention to detail. So much so that I could see in my mind’s eye the different characteristics of the landscape, the hardships of the journey and all the work involved in crossing the incredible inhospitable and challenging territories.
‘Backwards to Oregon’ is also a feminist statement, showing the discrimination faced by women in the mid-1800s, times when it was ‘better to be a criminal than a woman’ and when wives were at the total mercy of their husbands. If being a woman in that context was hard, being a lesbian was even harder. This novel is a good reminder of how lucky we are living in our times, and how difficult it still is for lesbians and women in general in some parts of the world.
This audiobook was read by Hayden Bishop who hasn’t narrated much lesfic, which is a pity as she is a truly accomplished performer. I absolutely loved her different voices which were all distinctive and authentic, including every single secondary character. There are a huge number of very demanding scenes, for instance, fights, arguments, childbirth, sex and reflective moments and Ms. Bishop nailed every single one. Colour me absolutely impressed.
There is a number of sequels and prequels to this novel including another audiobook ‘Hidden Truths’ also narrated by Ms. Bishop. I will definitely listen to that one too. If it’s similar to this one, I’ll be even happier. ‘Backwards to Oregon’ gets a very easy 5-star rating from me.
Not available on Audible Escape or Scribd but at a duration of 15 hrs and 30 mins is good value for money.
See all my reviews at www.lezreviewbooks.com
July 16, 2022
Excellent
This book has a bit of everything. Love, friendship, romance, adventure and excitement. Jae's exceptional writing style brings the wild west to life. You could actually be there. You won't be disappointed.
This book has a bit of everything. Love, friendship, romance, adventure and excitement. Jae's exceptional writing style brings the wild west to life. You could actually be there. You won't be disappointed.
October 9, 2021
A historical fiction story of new beginnings.
I really enjoyed this tale of Nora and Luke forging their way across the Oregon trail to create a life together, while getting to know eachother, despite their differences and similarities... 😉
The epic adventure of the trail and the struggles were at the forefront, the drama from side characters was believable. The love and care the MC's felt for eachother and the family they created was touching.
I look forward to reading more in this series of books.
I really enjoyed this tale of Nora and Luke forging their way across the Oregon trail to create a life together, while getting to know eachother, despite their differences and similarities... 😉
The epic adventure of the trail and the struggles were at the forefront, the drama from side characters was believable. The love and care the MC's felt for eachother and the family they created was touching.
I look forward to reading more in this series of books.
October 24, 2025
Why haven't I dive into this story earlier? I didn't know Hayden Bishop but she has a lot of range and the narration is perfect. This book tells the story of immigrants crossing America, with all the danger such a journey brought. I wasn't bored for a second, nature danger, men danger, both Luke and Nora hiding something added a lot of tension. We can really feel the Jae did a lot of research, and the book felt realistic and really immersive. The book is not a romance and it's an extra slow burn. Luke and Nora's are so likeable and remind me that the reality to live as women at the time was hard and challenging. You were just nothing without a man or husband.I loved Luke with Nora, but also Luke with Amy😍😍. Luke sexuality is way more complicated than a woman disguised in a woman and I really liked it. Luke's secret is revealed very late. I just wished I had more time of Luke and Nora in the truth. But I just LOVED this book!
October 17, 2025
When I started reading sapphic books years ago I put a few aside for a rainy day and this was one of them. I knew I’d love it but I underestimated the amount. I couldn’t read it fast enough. It’s been a while since I stayed up into the morning hours to read. Luke and Nora’s story was more important than sleep. Thrilled to see there’s more to their story. I know what I’ll be doing this weekend.
December 1, 2019
“Backwards to Oregon (The Oregon Series #1)” is a an unusual setting for me - it takes place in the American frontier in the 1850s. I don’t generally read historical fiction because I don’t enjoy the listening to the difficulties faced by lesbians, much less all women, in the era. I read fiction to relax.
Yet “Backwards to Oregon” taught me not to be too dismissive of the historical genre. Yes, there are huge difficulties both MCs must face. Certainly the wagon trail experiences shared even by married men and women, and their children are astonishing by today’s standards of daily life. And MC Nora, eking out a subsistence life as a prostitute certainly is both sympathetic and saddening. MC Luke, posing as a man in the military leads her own lonely life. The promise of better opportunities as a married couple leads them on a westward adventure.
These are both strong, likable women, and Nora’s daughter Amy plays a great part in their growing affection toward each other. The side characters, Tess and Bernice in particular, are also likable and complex.
I highly recommend this audiobook (the narration is wonderful), and I plan to continue the adventures of Luke and Nora through Jae’s other books. 5*.
Yet “Backwards to Oregon” taught me not to be too dismissive of the historical genre. Yes, there are huge difficulties both MCs must face. Certainly the wagon trail experiences shared even by married men and women, and their children are astonishing by today’s standards of daily life. And MC Nora, eking out a subsistence life as a prostitute certainly is both sympathetic and saddening. MC Luke, posing as a man in the military leads her own lonely life. The promise of better opportunities as a married couple leads them on a westward adventure.
These are both strong, likable women, and Nora’s daughter Amy plays a great part in their growing affection toward each other. The side characters, Tess and Bernice in particular, are also likable and complex.
I highly recommend this audiobook (the narration is wonderful), and I plan to continue the adventures of Luke and Nora through Jae’s other books. 5*.
November 30, 2021
The worry of countless pages ahead turned to fear to know it was getting to the end.
I don't know the reason I was refusing reading this series for so long
I'm so late to the party, and I'm so glad to finally got here!
Jae worked some of her writing magic and I found myself glued to the book refusing to put it down.
5*
I don't know the reason I was refusing reading this series for so long
I'm so late to the party, and I'm so glad to finally got here!
Jae worked some of her writing magic and I found myself glued to the book refusing to put it down.
5*
April 16, 2018
"Backwards To Oregon" is one of my top 3 most favourite lesbian fiction. It's brilliantly written, the story's told so beautifully, so sensually, so realistically, you can't help but go through the treacherous, unforgettable journey that Luke embarks on along with Nora and her daughter, Amy, whom she took on as her fake wife and child. Unbeknownst to Nora that Luke's actually a woman, she carried on with Luke like a married couple because both of them could give each other what they wanted in life - freedom. So the marriage of convenience worked out both ways. But, of course, all good things come to an end as Luke's "secret" is discovered! And the page-turner of a drama continues.... READ IT!
Luke & Nora's relationship, from strangers to friends to ultimately lovers, was structured with such sensibility & warmth, in the midst of a brutal, treacherous journey & ordeal, that you'd feel their friendship and romance simmer through, then burn slowly until it finally burst into flames. The chemistry between these 2 wounded souls was incredibly organic, natural and oh-so sensual, as they got to know each other better every day. Their journey was developed organically so their growing feelings for each other was utterly palpable on the pages. So realistic! I especially LOVED Nora & Luke's respective inner monologue, which I felt was vital to furthering their story. Jae letting us into BOTH of their psyche allowed us to understand how they were feeling, all the inner struggles that both of them were going through, so when they eventually accepted their undeniable love and kinship for each other, we, as readers, were right there with them, emotionally.
And let's not forget Luke & Amy's relationship! Oh! So innocent, so adorable & truly heartwarming to read - Luke, from not even knowing how to carry a child to becoming a proper parent so naturally, always protecting Amy from harm, playing with her, telling her stories, whereas Amy, on the other hand, started bonding with Luke, imprinting her as her father. In essence, Luke, like Amy, is an innocent creature in many ways. So it was such a delight to read how they were figuring out each other along the journey! Simply adorable!
This book is truly a classic. It's a resounding MUST-READ for all romance readers. Jae's masterful storytelling & rich development of the characters produced a spellbinding love story that needs to be read to experience its beauty. Utterly sublime.
Then, when you're done with this 1st book, you simply MUST continue with "Hidden Truths," its sequel.
But if you ask me, I'd highly recommend you read all the related short stories, preferably in chronological order in between the 2 full-length novels "Backwards..." & "Hidden...". Here's how I'd advise you follow with the Oregon Series:
1. The Blue Hour - about Luke's childhood
2. Grasping At Straws - about how Nora ended up working for Tess
3. Backwards To Oregon
4. A Rooster's Job - about the Hamiltons building their home
5. The Art Of Pretending - about Tess & someone interesting! ;)
6. Hidden Truths - about Amy as a young adult going thru life, her struggles with Rika, alongside her parents (Luke/Nora) & sister (my review here)
7. Lessons In Love And Life - about Amy & Rika
*Beyond the Trail " (a collection of all the aforementioned shorts BEFORE" Hidden Truths ")
Luke & Nora's relationship, from strangers to friends to ultimately lovers, was structured with such sensibility & warmth, in the midst of a brutal, treacherous journey & ordeal, that you'd feel their friendship and romance simmer through, then burn slowly until it finally burst into flames. The chemistry between these 2 wounded souls was incredibly organic, natural and oh-so sensual, as they got to know each other better every day. Their journey was developed organically so their growing feelings for each other was utterly palpable on the pages. So realistic! I especially LOVED Nora & Luke's respective inner monologue, which I felt was vital to furthering their story. Jae letting us into BOTH of their psyche allowed us to understand how they were feeling, all the inner struggles that both of them were going through, so when they eventually accepted their undeniable love and kinship for each other, we, as readers, were right there with them, emotionally.
And let's not forget Luke & Amy's relationship! Oh! So innocent, so adorable & truly heartwarming to read - Luke, from not even knowing how to carry a child to becoming a proper parent so naturally, always protecting Amy from harm, playing with her, telling her stories, whereas Amy, on the other hand, started bonding with Luke, imprinting her as her father. In essence, Luke, like Amy, is an innocent creature in many ways. So it was such a delight to read how they were figuring out each other along the journey! Simply adorable!
This book is truly a classic. It's a resounding MUST-READ for all romance readers. Jae's masterful storytelling & rich development of the characters produced a spellbinding love story that needs to be read to experience its beauty. Utterly sublime.
Then, when you're done with this 1st book, you simply MUST continue with "Hidden Truths," its sequel.
But if you ask me, I'd highly recommend you read all the related short stories, preferably in chronological order in between the 2 full-length novels "Backwards..." & "Hidden...". Here's how I'd advise you follow with the Oregon Series:
1. The Blue Hour - about Luke's childhood
2. Grasping At Straws - about how Nora ended up working for Tess
3. Backwards To Oregon
4. A Rooster's Job - about the Hamiltons building their home
5. The Art Of Pretending - about Tess & someone interesting! ;)
6. Hidden Truths - about Amy as a young adult going thru life, her struggles with Rika, alongside her parents (Luke/Nora) & sister (my review here)
7. Lessons In Love And Life - about Amy & Rika
*Beyond the Trail " (a collection of all the aforementioned shorts BEFORE" Hidden Truths ")
July 28, 2021
5 stars
I really liked it. Luke's story was very well done, Nora was an interesting three-dimensional character, the "big reveal" actually made sense,...
Yup, I'm a happy camper
Read: 3x
I really liked it. Luke's story was very well done, Nora was an interesting three-dimensional character, the "big reveal" actually made sense,...
Yup, I'm a happy camper
Read: 3x
July 11, 2021
Almost 12 hours of audio today. While being a single parent 😱😱. Good as advertised!
March 5, 2025
I loved this entire series. My first time reading a romance in the western genre, and now I understand the appeal! One of the more complex explorations of gender I have read in a romance, which feels pretty crazy cause this was published in 2007! I feel like anything else I say will be a spoiler, but I really loved this book and the entire series. If you did too, you may also like 'Bloom Town' by Ally North. My only criticism of this series is that it does very little to push back against traditional notions of colonialism and westward expansion. I will say that given Jae is German, this didn't surprise me, and I also think that if it were written today, she may have delved deeper into it. Despite this, I really liked the setting of the American West and this book is super well-researched if you're a history buff like me.
June 27, 2021
From an early age on I loved, loved, loved stories about the "West" and I loved stories about women dressing as men. That's why this book just couldn't go wrong. I mean it would have to be really bad not to work for me. Thus it is kind of intriguing why I haven't read this book sooner.
Backwards to Oregon is sweet, sad, it has suspense and it has a happy ending (which cannot be taken for granted in such a setting). It is also very detailed and I assume that a lot of research went into this.
But what I just about adore about this book is that it sheds light on the female role at that time and what is more on the female perception of themselves.
I want to add to this as I have now listened to the audio. Wow, what a great job Hayden Bishop has done! Not only was she able to convincingly give voice to the child, but the voices were so distinct and the Luke's "male" voice so well done, the narration was really able to bring the book to life.
I love movies about crossdressing and the thing that often bothers me, is that you can always spot the female beneath the male exterior from miles away and part of it is often the voice.
But as I said, here I was able to really get sucked into the story without questioning the believability of the story.
Backwards to Oregon is sweet, sad, it has suspense and it has a happy ending (which cannot be taken for granted in such a setting). It is also very detailed and I assume that a lot of research went into this.
But what I just about adore about this book is that it sheds light on the female role at that time and what is more on the female perception of themselves.
I want to add to this as I have now listened to the audio. Wow, what a great job Hayden Bishop has done! Not only was she able to convincingly give voice to the child, but the voices were so distinct and the Luke's "male" voice so well done, the narration was really able to bring the book to life.
I love movies about crossdressing and the thing that often bothers me, is that you can always spot the female beneath the male exterior from miles away and part of it is often the voice.
But as I said, here I was able to really get sucked into the story without questioning the believability of the story.
December 5, 2021
I absolutely love the tale of Luke and Nora. It’s one of my favorites and I’ve read it several times. I feel so much for both Luke and Nora. Neither has had an easy life, both are trying to find something better in life, and to provide a better life for Amy (and later Nattie). I love the watching Nora blossom as the story goes on. She finds strength and confidence in herself with the help of Luke. Luke melts my heart. She never thought she would have a family or someone who could love her, but Nora, Amy, and Nattie give her all that and more. Once all their secrets are revealed their bond becomes more than friendship and respect, it turns into a deep love.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 26, 2019
OH My Goodness it was such a wonderful book!!!!! I really enjoyed reading it!I love historical romances but "Backward to Oregon" exceeded all my expectations!!!! I was so drawn into the story, at times I felt I was there with them. The anticipation of when Nora would discover Luke's secret and how she would react keep me on edge though all of the dangers they lived everyday. Their growth from strangers, to friends, to a loving family was so moving and romantic.
I was absolutely amazed by the detail Jae has of their journey! Since I wasn't really familiar with it, I have to confess I actually looked at a map of the Oregon Trail so I could see where they were all the time. LOL.
I was absolutely amazed by the detail Jae has of their journey! Since I wasn't really familiar with it, I have to confess I actually looked at a map of the Oregon Trail so I could see where they were all the time. LOL.
December 7, 2022
What do I say about this? Romance + Western. Two genres that I don’t normally go for, but it was a RL book club read, so I went for it.
And I actually enjoyed the first 3/4 of the book. Through a not-completely-unbelievable set of circumstances, in 1851 a woman (Luke) who has passed as a man for her entire adult life, marries an unsuspecting brothel employee as he is about to set out on the Oregon Trail. The benefit to him is that having a wife will be good cover for him among his fellow travelers, and the benefit to her is that she has the prospect of a new life for herself and her child in Oregon. At Luke’s insistence they avoid any closeness at all.
Of course, that doesn’t last for long and romance blooms by the end of the book. But the first part is interesting in its descriptions of life on a wagon train and the landmarks along the way.
Although the book peters out toward the conclusion, it was refreshing to read about strong, capable women this week, when the Supreme Court seems determined to set the clock back at least to the 1950’s - if not to the 17th century. 3.5 stars rounded up.
And I actually enjoyed the first 3/4 of the book. Through a not-completely-unbelievable set of circumstances, in 1851 a woman (Luke) who has passed as a man for her entire adult life, marries an unsuspecting brothel employee as he is about to set out on the Oregon Trail. The benefit to him is that having a wife will be good cover for him among his fellow travelers, and the benefit to her is that she has the prospect of a new life for herself and her child in Oregon. At Luke’s insistence they avoid any closeness at all.
Of course, that doesn’t last for long and romance blooms by the end of the book. But the first part is interesting in its descriptions of life on a wagon train and the landmarks along the way.
Although the book peters out toward the conclusion, it was refreshing to read about strong, capable women this week, when the Supreme Court seems determined to set the clock back at least to the 1950’s - if not to the 17th century. 3.5 stars rounded up.
July 6, 2016
I typically don't enjoy Westerns, but wow did I ever love this book. Luke and Nora are an amazing couple with an achingly slow build to their relationship. I can't recommend this book enough.
Full joint review with Brooklyn here: http://www.thelesbianreview.com/backw...
You can also listen to Brooklyn and I talk about it on our podcast here (warning, major spoilers in this episode): http://thelesbiantalkshow.podbean.com...
Full joint review with Brooklyn here: http://www.thelesbianreview.com/backw...
You can also listen to Brooklyn and I talk about it on our podcast here (warning, major spoilers in this episode): http://thelesbiantalkshow.podbean.com...
January 3, 2020
I didn't write a review for this book when I first read it.
I love this. It was so fun to travel the Oregon trail with Luke, Nora, and Amy.
It IS a little difficult for me to believe that a woman could so convincingly live as a man among men. But I suspended my belief and enjoyed it a lot.
I've read 'Hidden Truths' but never any of the short stories in 'Beyond the Trail.' So I'm going to have to check those out.
If you haven't read this, you should.
I love this. It was so fun to travel the Oregon trail with Luke, Nora, and Amy.
It IS a little difficult for me to believe that a woman could so convincingly live as a man among men. But I suspended my belief and enjoyed it a lot.
I've read 'Hidden Truths' but never any of the short stories in 'Beyond the Trail.' So I'm going to have to check those out.
If you haven't read this, you should.
November 13, 2021
5 Stars - second read - still one of my favs
July 10, 2015
Despite the nice and exciting setting of this story, I was disappointed. For two main reasons.
1) I wanted to read a lesbian romance novel, and I just cannot define this as one (I'll explain why).
2) I was not convinced by the love story
Okay. Here goes.
I really really struggled to see Luke as a woman (dressed as a man). Luke says it herself, she's living as a man, not only because it makes her life easier, but also because she is most comfortable that way. So, yeah... she's not Mulan, if you know what I mean. Obviously, in the 1850s, it's hard to identify oneself. There's nothing but the binary realm of gender. Either you're a man, or a woman. And homosexuality is a sin. I don't know how Luke would identify herself today. A butch lesbian? I'm tempted to say no. Everything leads me to believe that Luke would identify as a transgender man. At least, that is almost how I saw her in this story. Basically, Luke is just a very gentle and sensitive guy. So I'll switch to "he" now, just because, damn, it's even hard to refer to him/her using "she".
He... is an awesome character. Truly, he's loyal, honorable, kind, sweet, and brave. He's lovely, really. But despite having a vagina and being attracted to women... he's just not a lesbian to me. Funnily enough, I actually felt like Nora the whole time. Nora is equally likable as a character, and feels an instant connection to Luke, who seems trustworthy enough. Together they embark on an adventure crossing the country towards Oregon. When Nora discovers Luke is a woman, she doesn't really believe it. When Luke is dressed, there's just no way to know. And she keeps having to remind herself he's actually a woman. That says something.....
Now, I do enjoy other kinds of love stories and I did like the characters, so I kept on reading. But...
the love Nora and Luke share feels more like strong friendship and affection than real head-over-heels, butterflies-in-the-stomach, I-will-love-you-forever kind of love.
I enjoy long stories usually but this one is very repetitive. The love grows at such a slow pace that it's hard to see it as anything but deep affection that comes from mutual respect. There's not much chemistry or passion.
And unfortunately, there's not enough things happening for this book to be enough as an adventure novel.
My favorite scenes had to be the ones with Luke and Amy. He's wonderful with the kid. I did enjoy learning about the characters and putting myself in their shoes. Trying to understand why they act the way they act and what's made them who they are.
1) I wanted to read a lesbian romance novel, and I just cannot define this as one (I'll explain why).
2) I was not convinced by the love story
Okay. Here goes.
I really really struggled to see Luke as a woman (dressed as a man). Luke says it herself, she's living as a man, not only because it makes her life easier, but also because she is most comfortable that way. So, yeah... she's not Mulan, if you know what I mean. Obviously, in the 1850s, it's hard to identify oneself. There's nothing but the binary realm of gender. Either you're a man, or a woman. And homosexuality is a sin. I don't know how Luke would identify herself today. A butch lesbian? I'm tempted to say no. Everything leads me to believe that Luke would identify as a transgender man. At least, that is almost how I saw her in this story. Basically, Luke is just a very gentle and sensitive guy. So I'll switch to "he" now, just because, damn, it's even hard to refer to him/her using "she".
He... is an awesome character. Truly, he's loyal, honorable, kind, sweet, and brave. He's lovely, really. But despite having a vagina and being attracted to women... he's just not a lesbian to me. Funnily enough, I actually felt like Nora the whole time. Nora is equally likable as a character, and feels an instant connection to Luke, who seems trustworthy enough. Together they embark on an adventure crossing the country towards Oregon. When Nora discovers Luke is a woman, she doesn't really believe it. When Luke is dressed, there's just no way to know. And she keeps having to remind herself he's actually a woman. That says something.....
Now, I do enjoy other kinds of love stories and I did like the characters, so I kept on reading. But...
the love Nora and Luke share feels more like strong friendship and affection than real head-over-heels, butterflies-in-the-stomach, I-will-love-you-forever kind of love.
I enjoy long stories usually but this one is very repetitive. The love grows at such a slow pace that it's hard to see it as anything but deep affection that comes from mutual respect. There's not much chemistry or passion.
And unfortunately, there's not enough things happening for this book to be enough as an adventure novel.
My favorite scenes had to be the ones with Luke and Amy. He's wonderful with the kid. I did enjoy learning about the characters and putting myself in their shoes. Trying to understand why they act the way they act and what's made them who they are.
December 24, 2018
5 Stars for Dec. 2018 re-read.
This is my I don't know, third re-read at the least. I first read the online version years ago. I'm adjusting my rating to 5 stars. Historical novels are not my favorite genre but I do enjoy this one and the follow-up stories.
This is my I don't know, third re-read at the least. I first read the online version years ago. I'm adjusting my rating to 5 stars. Historical novels are not my favorite genre but I do enjoy this one and the follow-up stories.
April 9, 2021
This has been sitting on my Kindle for a few months now and I finally decided to give it a go.
I have a really hot and cold relationship with period pieces and historical fiction. Often when I read historical fiction before queer rights started becoming a thing, they don't seem plausible to me and I have trouble putting aside that cynicism that other people accept the queer relationships. But when it's right, it's so right. And fortunately I was sucked right in to Backwards to Oregon.
I was super into this right away. The mystery of Luke's identity was handled really, really well. And Nora was such a rich character I really liked them together, as well as seeing them marry each other before love happened, then slowly watch them learn to trust and love each other was so fulfilling. I was super into it. It's a slow burn, and then when it burns- it's bright. I also loved the children in the book.
I also really liked how the "big reveal" took place. I don't think it's a spoiler to say what happens as reading the blurb one can put the pieces together. But I really like how it was handled. It was a perfect balance of emotional, tasteful, and rather believable.
I really enjoyed this book and I've already bought the short story collection to read before I get the sequel. 4.5/5
I have a really hot and cold relationship with period pieces and historical fiction. Often when I read historical fiction before queer rights started becoming a thing, they don't seem plausible to me and I have trouble putting aside that cynicism that other people accept the queer relationships. But when it's right, it's so right. And fortunately I was sucked right in to Backwards to Oregon.
I was super into this right away. The mystery of Luke's identity was handled really, really well. And Nora was such a rich character I really liked them together, as well as seeing them marry each other before love happened, then slowly watch them learn to trust and love each other was so fulfilling. I was super into it. It's a slow burn, and then when it burns- it's bright. I also loved the children in the book.
I also really liked how the "big reveal" took place. I don't think it's a spoiler to say what happens as reading the blurb one can put the pieces together. But I really like how it was handled. It was a perfect balance of emotional, tasteful, and rather believable.
I really enjoyed this book and I've already bought the short story collection to read before I get the sequel. 4.5/5
December 22, 2019
This is my first time ever to read any ofJae's books and I must say I was very impressed. I finished this book in a record time and would rate it 6 stars if I could. I love how Luke opened up to Nora bit by bit. Although this had caused the book to be moving in a very slow pace, it was for the best effects as Luke's struggling to come out to Nora only seemed so real and psychologically and logically convincing. I also like how Jae built the dynamic between them as Luke needed someone that is as patient, persistent, strong-willed as Nora to make it work. There might be lack of steamy hot scenes but I'm happy to trade them for the skillful and well-thought writing of the characters' psychological and emotional troubles.
May 17, 2022
I count myself among the few who ask themselves, “Why did I wait so long to read this book when a gazillion people cannot stop singing the praises of this story?” I cannot lie, I am also among the people who have some trouble with adventure stories set in “ye olde West”. It’s already a tough time period to be a woman let alone a lesbian, bisexual, etc. In addition to Jae’s Perfect Rhythm/Not the Marrying Kind series (is it a series if it’s only 2 books?), this has leaped onto the list of favorites. I still cannot get over how much information she provided with each date and location noted. If only a fraction of this research made it into a typical US history curriculum, people might actually have more of an appreciation for the great challenge of the pioneer days. The main characters served the story well in terms of giving us just enough angst to feel their struggle but not enough that you want to scream at them and throw your iPad. I especially liked that some side characters were not just caricatures of 2 dimensional simplicity. I haven’t listened to it yet, but that’s coming soon because it gives me an opportunity to enjoy it “for the first time” again. So glad I jumped onto the Backwards to Oregon bandWAGON. See what I did there?
August 16, 2021
“I don’t want you to act like a woman or a man. Don’t act at all—just be yourself.”
3.5 stars. Gah, I enjoyed this so much. Looking at it as a whole, this could have turned out to be one of my favourite historical romances ever. All of the elements are there. There were a couple little things that impeded my enjoyment, but I'm happy to say that this is my favourite Jae book to date.
Luke Hamilton has been living as a man since she was 12. Once a soldier, she's looking to set up as a rancher in Oregon, and figures the journey west will be easier if she has a wife to legitimise her position. She proposes to Nora, a single mother prostitute working at her friend's brothel, and they begin the 2,000 mile journey together as a married couple. Easily my favourite thing about this is the slow burn. There are few things more satisfying in a romance than getting to see feelings slowly, organically, and realistically develop. Jae does her pacing really well, and there are enough tender moments and enough romantic tension and sexual tension to keep us interested in the relationship and rooting for them. They begin their marriage as strangers, and slowly become more comfortable, and then become friends, and then romance starts to develop, and it's sooooo so good. So many moments where I was smiling like a fool or wanting to shake them both. There are obviously obstacles to the romance, and they're both keeping secrets from one another; Luke's secret, o0f course, being that she isn't actually a man. Secret-keeping is something that can really kill my vibe in a romance, and this particular secret was keep for a liiiiittle too long, imo? But not by too much, and the revelation and fallout and everything that followed was perfect.
It's obvious that Jae did a lot of research for this book, and it shows. It's super immersive, and I was absolutely swept away by all trials and danger and action and the details of the journey. The story does include a trope/plot point that I don't love reading about, but it didn't bug me as much as I had anticipated. I love seeing gender nonconforming women in historicals, so I really liked Luke! She doesn't really read as cis. AFAIK the author hasn't said anything about this, but a case could definitely be made for her as a nonbinary lesbian.
The biggest thing I didn't really like is how the book talked about sex work. Nora is a former prostitute and Luke [mild spoiler] grew up in a brothel. Any woman can, of course, feel however she wants about sex work, especially if it wasn't her choice to begin with, but the book really went hard on treating Nora's former life like something she had to rise above/grow out of in order to get respect, rather than just a fact about her. I understand why other characters would be shitty about it, but both Luke and the narrative seemed low-key judgmental. Sometimes Luke would get frustrated about Nora "falling back into her role as a prostitute" or think about the fact that she was "more cultured and smart than the average prostitute" and it was really annoying and made it seem like Luke wanted to completely erase that part of Nora's past? Which was weird, since Luke was so awesomely accepting about everything else? IDK, maybe I'm reading too much into it, but it was irritating. Additionally, this got a bit gender essentialist at times. I'm also beginning to realise that something I dislike in romances is when the love interest is continuously compared to other people. Especially in a "she doesn't wear makeup... unlike OTHER women!" type of way. No matter how benignly it's done, my eyes start to roll out of my head.
ETA: I would be remiss if I didn't mention: that whole bit with the Sioux braves being so enraptured by? Nora's hair? That they became overcome with desire and were willing to trade anything for her? Haha what the fuck.
Listened to the audiobook as read by Hayden Bishop and I REALLY loved it. At times she was slightly wooden and some of her pacing was a bit off, but there was all the emotion and heart that you could ask for. Also, Nora's 3 year old daughter plays a pretty big part in the book. I don't always love how narrators do children's voices, but Bishop's rendition of Amy was soooooo cute. T__T I loved it. I'm looking forward to continuing this series and hopefully loving those books even more.
Content warnings: .
“I decided to take the risk and let myself love you.”
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