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Savage Destiny #1
Sweet Prairie Passion
Where the mountains reared up to kiss the sky, where the land stretched out to a vast, distant sea -- that's where Abigail Trent was heading. But the moment the spirited lovely girl set eyes on the handsome Cheyenne brave, she instantly knew that no life was worth living if it wasn't by the side of the Indian scout.
Together they fought nature's violence on the harsh, unmapped plains; together explored their passion on the stark, hostile frontier. And as they journeyed westward through America's endless forests and fertile acres, their desire deepened into love. A forbidden dream blossomed into a courageous vision, and they set out to forge a destiny of their own!
Together they fought nature's violence on the harsh, unmapped plains; together explored their passion on the stark, hostile frontier. And as they journeyed westward through America's endless forests and fertile acres, their desire deepened into love. A forbidden dream blossomed into a courageous vision, and they set out to forge a destiny of their own!
463 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 1983
100 people are currently reading
932 people want to read
About the author
Rosanne Bittner
84 books622 followersI am a USA-TODAY best-selling author with 41 years, 76 books, and numerous writing awards behind me. My major genre is historical romance. I have always written for standard publishers but am now writing strictly for Amazon so I have more freedom to write real history. My most recent publication is SHADOW TRAIL, the 6th book in my Outlaw Hearts series. I also wrote and published my first full-length contemporary story, DANCING BENEATH YOU, in September 2022, a romance involving mystery and a depiction of reservation life in the Badlands of South Dakota. My best sellers are my SAVAGE DESTINY series (7 books) and my OUTLAW HEARTS series. See my website (www.rosannebittner.com) for details on all my books - most available for Kindle and in print. I am known for great love stories filled with real history and high emotion. I have also written many Native American stories, all based on real history.
I love American history. For those of you who have not yet read my books, my stories are generally set in the American West of the 1800s and feature vividly described, historically accurate settings that span the US from Missouri to California, from Canada to Mexico. Many of my books portray the poignant history of our Native Americans, and though the characters are my own, I use real historical locations and events in all my novels. I have also written about the French & Indian wars, American Revolution, the War of 1812, the war with Mexico (the Alamo), and the Civil War.
National magazine ROMANTIC TIMES has called me the "Queen of Western Romance" and an "emotional powerhouse." My husband and I have traveled the west for nearly 40 years and I have visited just about every location mentioned in my books.
Visit my website at www.rosannebittner.com and my Facebook Author page. And be sure to join Rosanne Bittner's Heart of the West Street Team! Happy reading!
I love American history. For those of you who have not yet read my books, my stories are generally set in the American West of the 1800s and feature vividly described, historically accurate settings that span the US from Missouri to California, from Canada to Mexico. Many of my books portray the poignant history of our Native Americans, and though the characters are my own, I use real historical locations and events in all my novels. I have also written about the French & Indian wars, American Revolution, the War of 1812, the war with Mexico (the Alamo), and the Civil War.
National magazine ROMANTIC TIMES has called me the "Queen of Western Romance" and an "emotional powerhouse." My husband and I have traveled the west for nearly 40 years and I have visited just about every location mentioned in my books.
Visit my website at www.rosannebittner.com and my Facebook Author page. And be sure to join Rosanne Bittner's Heart of the West Street Team! Happy reading!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 79 reviews
September 29, 2014
I have said it before and I'll say it again....idiot whites shouldn't write about Native Americans! On page 62 I was ready to throw the book. Have no idea who this writer is, but will NEVER read another book by her. Not only is the book infantile it is poorly written. I may be nit picky, but in a period story, I want to be submerged, taken to that time and place. It is dependent on the author, staying in tune with the period they are writing about. So little things...like "homemade" biscuits..jerks me out of the story...at that period of time..all things were homemade...no need to call them that or draw attention to them. The use of gauze bandages was another...it was invented during WW1 so would not be part of the things one carried across the praire. This is only and example of the way she destroys the stories flow, over and over.
The Hero who is only 25 talks and acts 45. The 10 yr difference in age, would not have even been identified let alone cause a problem in this period. It was usual not the exception. I would not recommend this book to anyone. Also calling someone Cheyenne Zeke..is stupid. She obviously had a thing for Clint Walker and based her hero on his Cheyenne character. No one would use that huge mouthful to call anyone. This is one of those books, I am tempted to re-write, because it is so iritating.
I'd like to add I am mixed blood Native American and the way most writers approach writing about us is to make us stupid....talking in cliped phrasing. We aren't stupid...just a different culture. We did not choose to live a wasteful white life. Instead close to the earth and God, whites might be shocked if a book was written from the NA point of view...and how stupid whites appear, even today.
The Hero who is only 25 talks and acts 45. The 10 yr difference in age, would not have even been identified let alone cause a problem in this period. It was usual not the exception. I would not recommend this book to anyone. Also calling someone Cheyenne Zeke..is stupid. She obviously had a thing for Clint Walker and based her hero on his Cheyenne character. No one would use that huge mouthful to call anyone. This is one of those books, I am tempted to re-write, because it is so iritating.
I'd like to add I am mixed blood Native American and the way most writers approach writing about us is to make us stupid....talking in cliped phrasing. We aren't stupid...just a different culture. We did not choose to live a wasteful white life. Instead close to the earth and God, whites might be shocked if a book was written from the NA point of view...and how stupid whites appear, even today.
November 20, 2016
I smiled,cried and i've been on the edge of my seat while reading this.I LOVE native americans and i was so excited when i found this series.The characters are great,even when i wanted to shake them i couldn't help but fall in love with them.The love story is so sweet and beautiful!
I definitely want a man like Zeke.
I definitely want a man like Zeke.
April 24, 2022
This review was originally posted on Addicted To Romance
This review may contain spoilers, so fair warning, upon reading the review.
First Impressions
Sweet Prairie Passion is the first book in the “Savage Destiny” series. This is a series that is an epic love series. So if you enjoyed what we received with her Outlaw Hearts series, I would recommend this highly. This series is also one of her most well-loved series other than the Outlaw Hearts series. I was honored to be able to buddy read with a good friend of mine Brianna Nichols (she has been a book blogger so some of you oldie bloggers might remember her). We both had wanted to read more westerns and had decided this week that we wanted to read this together as neither of us had read this series yet. I was really intrigued because the hero is biracial (of Native American descent) and this is an interracial romance. I was so eager for this because I know how well this author does representation, I have been impressed in the past with the other books that she has had nonwhite characters and she did just a tremendous job with it here. And fair warning this book is a PAGE TURNER (the type of book that will tempt you to call in sick-to-work type of reading) and I guarantee if you are a fan of this author or westerns in general, this book will definitely work for you.
If a woman stifles those dreams, she stifles him, and their marriage isn’t any good anymore. But if she lets him grow and stretch out and be free, he’ll always be at her side. If a woman is clever enough, she can have a man tied to her apron strings without his even knowing it.”
Summary
This story begins with a family, the Trents, who with a group of other families and individuals are heading out west to Oregon and are looking for a guide, the guide that they find is Zeke Monroe, who is half-Cheyenne. From the first moment that 15-year-old Abbie Trent meets Zeke, there is an instant connection between them, Zeke is in his mid-twenties, and he knows that focusing on Abbie would be a mistake. He is still haunted by the loss of his wife and son who were murdered because she was white and fell in love with him. And he knows how cruel man can be and would never do anything to put Abbie in danger but sometimes life doesn’t go according to plans. As the group journey on the wagon trail together, they have to face up to loss and death and the gritty horror of the wild west, and a fierce love breaks free between Zeke and Abbie but can they find their way to a happy ever after? Will Zeke’s fear prevent him from embracing a future with Abbie or will they have to embrace what they have now and lose each other forever?
What I Loved
There are so many good things about this book and honestly, it would have been a higher rating except for one aspect (see below for what I had issues with). This was such a solid read and I just fell so hard for this couple. I just knew it would be a rough ride but this author in her typical manner, tore my heart in two but also put it back together. There was so many emotions that are packed in this story and some rough things happened to this pair. But what I loved the most, is seeing them connect so well and fight for each other. There is such a deep intimacy that builds between them and I really respect how this author doesn’t sugarcoat the gritty wild west, she gives it to you real and I admire that. We see the harsh realities of what human beings as a whole had to suffer but most especially the Native Americans and the horrors they had to face and deal with due to racism that was so heavily present back then. I really respected how Rosanne Bittner handled the representation here and you can definitely tell she researched this well to give honor to this story. I really admired Zeke, he is definitely my favorite I just wanted to cheer this man on to his HEA because he deserves it so much. You see how he is tormented but I love how objective he is despite what he has gone through and doesn’t have hate in his heart for those that are innocent. We see the friendships that he builds and how people really have his back when he needs it the most. The romance that builds between Zeke and Abbie, is so sweet and poignant. When we see the intimate moments between them, I just wanted to stay there forever right along side with them. I was also fascinated by the way the author built the plot of the story and it does end with a HFN feeling. The series does feature the couple or really the whole family (I think their kids have a couple of books later in the series). But I was impressed with how this author had me so hooked into the story and I never wanted to let go of it here.
“God, I love you, Abbie,” he whispered. “That’s the only thing I know. When you took me inside of you, you took my soul, damn you! I don’t belong to myself anymore. I’ve got no strength to fight when I’m near you. I wanted to go on without you, but I can’t do it. I’m so tired of being alone, Abbie. I want a wife—children again.”
What I Struggled With
The heroine was such a struggle, I tell ya all, I wanted to love her but it took time with this one. I did love how she is with Zeke. But she is so immature and also I didn’t like how jealousy brings out her worst characteristics. I normally don’t mind jealousy, but in this case, it was pretty bad how she treats a certain young woman because she was jealous. I know she is young in this book, and I did try to maintain my objectivity in this one, but she really spoiled the first half of the book for me. She does grow so much in the story and I was able to enjoy her character, but she is the reason this book isn’t a five-star read for me.
Overall View
I found Sweet Prairie Passion to be a beautiful, heart-wrenching romance that won my heart so deeply. Its a story of loss, struggle and even death but its also a tale of healing, love, and beauty of the soul.
I will stay with you, my love, I will bear the hardships life brings us. For life would be so much more unbearable Without you. We will follow the uncaught wind, And range with the eagle and all wild things— Wild and free … like you, my darling … And like the love we share … wild and free. Wild and free.
Trigger Warnings:
Violence, Racism, Mention of the “Trail of Bloody Tears”, Death of a Family Member(s)
This review may contain spoilers, so fair warning, upon reading the review.
First Impressions
Sweet Prairie Passion is the first book in the “Savage Destiny” series. This is a series that is an epic love series. So if you enjoyed what we received with her Outlaw Hearts series, I would recommend this highly. This series is also one of her most well-loved series other than the Outlaw Hearts series. I was honored to be able to buddy read with a good friend of mine Brianna Nichols (she has been a book blogger so some of you oldie bloggers might remember her). We both had wanted to read more westerns and had decided this week that we wanted to read this together as neither of us had read this series yet. I was really intrigued because the hero is biracial (of Native American descent) and this is an interracial romance. I was so eager for this because I know how well this author does representation, I have been impressed in the past with the other books that she has had nonwhite characters and she did just a tremendous job with it here. And fair warning this book is a PAGE TURNER (the type of book that will tempt you to call in sick-to-work type of reading) and I guarantee if you are a fan of this author or westerns in general, this book will definitely work for you.
If a woman stifles those dreams, she stifles him, and their marriage isn’t any good anymore. But if she lets him grow and stretch out and be free, he’ll always be at her side. If a woman is clever enough, she can have a man tied to her apron strings without his even knowing it.”
Summary
This story begins with a family, the Trents, who with a group of other families and individuals are heading out west to Oregon and are looking for a guide, the guide that they find is Zeke Monroe, who is half-Cheyenne. From the first moment that 15-year-old Abbie Trent meets Zeke, there is an instant connection between them, Zeke is in his mid-twenties, and he knows that focusing on Abbie would be a mistake. He is still haunted by the loss of his wife and son who were murdered because she was white and fell in love with him. And he knows how cruel man can be and would never do anything to put Abbie in danger but sometimes life doesn’t go according to plans. As the group journey on the wagon trail together, they have to face up to loss and death and the gritty horror of the wild west, and a fierce love breaks free between Zeke and Abbie but can they find their way to a happy ever after? Will Zeke’s fear prevent him from embracing a future with Abbie or will they have to embrace what they have now and lose each other forever?
What I Loved
There are so many good things about this book and honestly, it would have been a higher rating except for one aspect (see below for what I had issues with). This was such a solid read and I just fell so hard for this couple. I just knew it would be a rough ride but this author in her typical manner, tore my heart in two but also put it back together. There was so many emotions that are packed in this story and some rough things happened to this pair. But what I loved the most, is seeing them connect so well and fight for each other. There is such a deep intimacy that builds between them and I really respect how this author doesn’t sugarcoat the gritty wild west, she gives it to you real and I admire that. We see the harsh realities of what human beings as a whole had to suffer but most especially the Native Americans and the horrors they had to face and deal with due to racism that was so heavily present back then. I really respected how Rosanne Bittner handled the representation here and you can definitely tell she researched this well to give honor to this story. I really admired Zeke, he is definitely my favorite I just wanted to cheer this man on to his HEA because he deserves it so much. You see how he is tormented but I love how objective he is despite what he has gone through and doesn’t have hate in his heart for those that are innocent. We see the friendships that he builds and how people really have his back when he needs it the most. The romance that builds between Zeke and Abbie, is so sweet and poignant. When we see the intimate moments between them, I just wanted to stay there forever right along side with them. I was also fascinated by the way the author built the plot of the story and it does end with a HFN feeling. The series does feature the couple or really the whole family (I think their kids have a couple of books later in the series). But I was impressed with how this author had me so hooked into the story and I never wanted to let go of it here.
“God, I love you, Abbie,” he whispered. “That’s the only thing I know. When you took me inside of you, you took my soul, damn you! I don’t belong to myself anymore. I’ve got no strength to fight when I’m near you. I wanted to go on without you, but I can’t do it. I’m so tired of being alone, Abbie. I want a wife—children again.”
What I Struggled With
The heroine was such a struggle, I tell ya all, I wanted to love her but it took time with this one. I did love how she is with Zeke. But she is so immature and also I didn’t like how jealousy brings out her worst characteristics. I normally don’t mind jealousy, but in this case, it was pretty bad how she treats a certain young woman because she was jealous. I know she is young in this book, and I did try to maintain my objectivity in this one, but she really spoiled the first half of the book for me. She does grow so much in the story and I was able to enjoy her character, but she is the reason this book isn’t a five-star read for me.
Overall View
I found Sweet Prairie Passion to be a beautiful, heart-wrenching romance that won my heart so deeply. Its a story of loss, struggle and even death but its also a tale of healing, love, and beauty of the soul.
I will stay with you, my love, I will bear the hardships life brings us. For life would be so much more unbearable Without you. We will follow the uncaught wind, And range with the eagle and all wild things— Wild and free … like you, my darling … And like the love we share … wild and free. Wild and free.
Trigger Warnings:
Violence, Racism, Mention of the “Trail of Bloody Tears”, Death of a Family Member(s)
December 14, 2016
This review is of “Sweet Prairie Passion”, book #1 in the “Savage Destiny” series by Rosanne Bittner.
The Story: In 1845, a wagon train is headed from Tennessee west to Oregon. Among those on the train is Jason Trent, a widower, and his three children: daughters LeeAnn, 17, Abigail (Abbie), 15, the heroine of the book and the series, and son Jeremy, 7. The Trent family is leaving Tennessee because the memories of Jason’s late wife are too strong. Later, they meet up with two men who are hired to scout and lead the train, one of whom is “Cheyenne” Zeke Monroe, 25, the hero of the book and the series. The fact that Zeke is half-white and half-Cheyenne doesn’t sit well with everyone on the train, and Zeke faces bigotry from some of the train’s denizens, including some with less than savory reputations.
As the book continues, Abigail and Zeke fall in love, but their love is threatened by his past, bigotry, hatred, intolerance, scandal and tragedy. However, even knowing that the Cheyenne Indians-and the Indian people in general-would be facing tremendous hardship, sorrow and tragedy, Zeke and Abbie fall in love and vow to be together.
Upside: I have said this many times: In order for me to truly love a book, television show, or movie, I have to truly care about the characters and feel what they feel. Ms. Bittner makes me feel that as a reader. I felt every emotion of every character, good and bad. Zeke and Abbie are one of the strongest hero and heroine combinations I have ever read. I never felt as though I was reading a book. I felt as though I was watching Zeke and Abbie’s lives playing out in front of me, and that is something that only the truly great authors can make me feel.
Downside: As much as I love Ms. Bittner’s writing style, there are two parts of her writing-which happens in every book I’ve read by her-that really annoy me:
#1. Violence against women. In every one of Ms. Bittner’s books, the heroine-and sometimes the female supporting characters-are subjected to physical and sexual abuse. In “Sweet Prairie Passion”, for example, Abbie is beaten and nearly raped twice. The violence really doesn’t advance the story.
#2. Dichotomy. While Ms. Bittner’s heroines are very strong emotionally, they aren’t as strong in other areas. Once again, in every book, Ms. Bittner places her heroines in some form of peril, which leads to the hero having to rescue them. It reminds me too much of the old “Popeye” cartoons where Olive Oyl is constantly needing Popeye to save her.
Sex: Ms. Bittner’s love scenes are descriptive enough to let a reader know what is going on, but not graphic enough to be exciting.
Violence: In addition to the violence mentioned above, there are multiple scenes of assault and killing. Most of the violence is not graphic in this book; Ms. Bittner’s later books in the series are more graphically violent.
Bottom Line: If one wants to read books to make themselves forget about what’s going on in the world, Ms. Bittner is not your author. However, if you love books which will stir your emotions-good and bad-and leave one feeling like you’ve been on a roller coaster, Ms. Bittner’s books will be your jam.
The Story: In 1845, a wagon train is headed from Tennessee west to Oregon. Among those on the train is Jason Trent, a widower, and his three children: daughters LeeAnn, 17, Abigail (Abbie), 15, the heroine of the book and the series, and son Jeremy, 7. The Trent family is leaving Tennessee because the memories of Jason’s late wife are too strong. Later, they meet up with two men who are hired to scout and lead the train, one of whom is “Cheyenne” Zeke Monroe, 25, the hero of the book and the series. The fact that Zeke is half-white and half-Cheyenne doesn’t sit well with everyone on the train, and Zeke faces bigotry from some of the train’s denizens, including some with less than savory reputations.
As the book continues, Abigail and Zeke fall in love, but their love is threatened by his past, bigotry, hatred, intolerance, scandal and tragedy. However, even knowing that the Cheyenne Indians-and the Indian people in general-would be facing tremendous hardship, sorrow and tragedy, Zeke and Abbie fall in love and vow to be together.
Upside: I have said this many times: In order for me to truly love a book, television show, or movie, I have to truly care about the characters and feel what they feel. Ms. Bittner makes me feel that as a reader. I felt every emotion of every character, good and bad. Zeke and Abbie are one of the strongest hero and heroine combinations I have ever read. I never felt as though I was reading a book. I felt as though I was watching Zeke and Abbie’s lives playing out in front of me, and that is something that only the truly great authors can make me feel.
Downside: As much as I love Ms. Bittner’s writing style, there are two parts of her writing-which happens in every book I’ve read by her-that really annoy me:
#1. Violence against women. In every one of Ms. Bittner’s books, the heroine-and sometimes the female supporting characters-are subjected to physical and sexual abuse. In “Sweet Prairie Passion”, for example, Abbie is beaten and nearly raped twice. The violence really doesn’t advance the story.
#2. Dichotomy. While Ms. Bittner’s heroines are very strong emotionally, they aren’t as strong in other areas. Once again, in every book, Ms. Bittner places her heroines in some form of peril, which leads to the hero having to rescue them. It reminds me too much of the old “Popeye” cartoons where Olive Oyl is constantly needing Popeye to save her.
Sex: Ms. Bittner’s love scenes are descriptive enough to let a reader know what is going on, but not graphic enough to be exciting.
Violence: In addition to the violence mentioned above, there are multiple scenes of assault and killing. Most of the violence is not graphic in this book; Ms. Bittner’s later books in the series are more graphically violent.
Bottom Line: If one wants to read books to make themselves forget about what’s going on in the world, Ms. Bittner is not your author. However, if you love books which will stir your emotions-good and bad-and leave one feeling like you’ve been on a roller coaster, Ms. Bittner’s books will be your jam.
July 22, 2014
Oh boy, where do I start? First let me express my awe that this book has a 4+ star rating. It kind of saddens me that people think this is good. I won't go into all the cliches and cheesy reasons I didn't like this book, but I do feel the need to point one out. Age differences of males and females don't really bother me in period books, but this one did. I could have been on board with this couple if he didn't have sex with her and then continue to refer to her as a child through the rest of the book. Totally gross! I felt he was very inappropriate with her and took advantage of Abbie's emotional state. I could not get on board with this. Most great couples have some kind of emotional/marital commitment before they take that step, and Zeke failed here. Will not read any more of these books.
April 22, 2023
Rating: 3 / 5
Goodness gracious, sometimes I really get the feeling that I should stop reading Rosanne Bittner books.
On the one hand, she definitely has the best writing for Native American romance authors out of pretty much all the authors I've read,
BUT
on the other hand, I'm convinced that this woman has a sadistic streak in her, as almost all of the stories she writes contain a great amount of angst and pain for her characters.
Like...I'm just sick of it.
When I pick up a romance book to read, then sure, I'll accept some hardships, but NOT too many that make me so upset that the romance just doesn't seem worth it afterwards. Like...what the hell?! Romances are supposed to relax me, make me all sappy and happy and grinning.
But the majority of Rosanne Bittner's stories do NOT have that effect on me.
Seriously, I just may stop reading her after this. It's just too much sometimes, honestly--just too much.
Goodness gracious, sometimes I really get the feeling that I should stop reading Rosanne Bittner books.
On the one hand, she definitely has the best writing for Native American romance authors out of pretty much all the authors I've read,
BUT
on the other hand, I'm convinced that this woman has a sadistic streak in her, as almost all of the stories she writes contain a great amount of angst and pain for her characters.
Like...I'm just sick of it.
When I pick up a romance book to read, then sure, I'll accept some hardships, but NOT too many that make me so upset that the romance just doesn't seem worth it afterwards. Like...what the hell?! Romances are supposed to relax me, make me all sappy and happy and grinning.
But the majority of Rosanne Bittner's stories do NOT have that effect on me.
Seriously, I just may stop reading her after this. It's just too much sometimes, honestly--just too much.
February 8, 2017
Really, you MUST get all 7 books in the Savage Destiny series and fall in love with Zeke and his Abbie!!! My heart felt every emotion possible with these two - I cried, laughed, stressed, rejoiced, cheered, worried along with them. When a book/series can do that, you *know* they're the best! If I could only keep one set of fiction books, this would be it, hands down, no hesitation!
The instant spark between Zeke and Abbie and how these two grew to love each other so that Zeke could no longer walk away from her stole my heart!
The instant spark between Zeke and Abbie and how these two grew to love each other so that Zeke could no longer walk away from her stole my heart!
September 22, 2023
Много сладка, наивна любовна история от времената на дивия Запад. Само заради пълната липса на омразния ми мотив “неразбирателство-и-истерия-до-дупка” завишавам звездите. Тук няма и грам неразбирателство! Трудности, расизъм и наивност - да, но нещата между героите са поставени “право куме в очи”. Каква рядкост, не знам защо авторките на любовни романи считат читателките си масово за идиотки с това “неразбирателство”.
3,5⭐️
3,5⭐️
February 6, 2017
It is so hard for me to believe that this book is just the 1st book of a 7 book series. Abigail Trent goes through so much on her families adventure going west. At 15 she has gone through more than most people do in their lifetime. So much death, so many struggles but at 15 she is already a strong woman and she is in a whirl wind deep love story with a half breed Indian that is a force to be reckoned with. I can't wait to see what happens with this love story. I'm sure that the strong love between Zeke and Abigail will have beautiful stories of their life together. However, I'm sure that this forbidden type love for the time will have many struggles. The book played like a movie in my mind and I can't wait to continue the adventure!
April 23, 2022
Man, this book put me through the wringer. There was so much love, sadness, and anger. Abbie and her family set out on a wagon train headed to Oregon, and Zeke, a man who was half Cheyenne and white, was their scout. I thought the ten year age difference between them was mentioned an unusual amount of times, given that it was pretty common back then. The racial differences though...that was hard to read about, as people looked down on white mixing with Native Americans. This had caused Zeke's wife and son to get killed, and so he resisted the feelings he was beginning to have for Abbie. As for Abbie, she went through a lot in this story. When it started out, she had taken on the role of mother to her little brother. Her mother had died in Tennessee, and her father took them on the wagon train. There, she met and fell in love with Zeke, experienced awful tragedy, and learned a whole lot about life and its cruelty. Parts of this book were unbelievably sad, and characters in here made me angry and disgusted, which are all signs that the author did her job. I really could've done without Zeke calling Abbie "little girl" after a certain point, and I also could've done without some of Abbie's jealousy when people were in grave danger, but when compared to everything else in this book, those things almost didn't matter. Though I will say that the many exclamation points got distracting after a while. Still, I really enjoyed this. I've always had a thing for books about wagon trains. Combine that with romance, real history, and characters I can sympathize with, and I'm all in. As this is book 1 in a series following Abbieand Zeke, not everything got resolved in here, so I'll be reading on in this series for sure at some point.
December 10, 2019
Another great book by Roseanne Bittner. I read this book in less than 24 hours. I could not put it down. I am so excited that this is a series. This story will pull you into it. You will feel like you’re on a wagon Trail with them and you will be emotionally invested in the characters. This author has a real gift I am glad she shared it with all of us. I’ve already downloaded book 2 of savage destiny. Can’t wait!
July 22, 2014
Originally posted at Bunny's Review
When starting this book I honestly thought it would be the average historical romance, just something with a little different plot twist. Oh how wrong I was in that thought.
Readers are quickly introduced to the heroine, Abigail (Abbie). Abbie is portrayed as someone young but wise in years. She is trying to take over the role of ‘mother’ in the family. A role that is normally taken over by the oldest, but with Abbie’s sister, LeeAnn, she is more concerned with finding a rich man to marry.
I almost feel LeeAnn was a spoiled young girl that did not know what she wanted, but it is later stated she was just more interested in her looks and finding a man than anything. Being close to 18 years old she just wanted a life that did not involve backbreaking work on a farm.
Midway thru chapter 1 reader’s are introduced to the hero. A man who is half Cheyenne Indian and half Caucasian, and not overly fond of ‘white’ people but willing to help out. Cheyenne Zeke, or Zeke is someone that portrays a tough-as-nails image to anyone he meets.
Quickly readers meet one of the antagonists, Morris Connely. From the beginning, Connely shows he is opposed to any dealing with Indians. When someone makes a statement to Zeke, Connely is very quick to anger.
The author placed several obstacles and heartache for Abbie to overcome. No one today truly understands the hard road out ancestors traveled moving west. We have pictures, text, and people thoughts but none of us have experienced anything similar. To know that we need to move thousands of miles with only a wagon is daunting. But then we have no bridges to cross, only a dirt path for a road. No way to fully determine if a person is a murderer or our neighbor is someone willing to cover our back when in a fight. Abbie proved over and over she was able to handle anything throw at her. No matter what, she overcame everything.
This book was originally published in 1989. So much racial slurs and prejudice throughout the book. This is not a nice clean read, something you would be willing to share with a young teenager. There is sexual scenes, cussing, attempted rape and even murder. A wonderful written story about how wild the west once was.
Bittner took everything a person could think of about the west, wrote a story that will leave readers questioning the cruelly of our ancestors.
This was an amazing read.
The bunnies and I give this book
carrots.
When starting this book I honestly thought it would be the average historical romance, just something with a little different plot twist. Oh how wrong I was in that thought.
Readers are quickly introduced to the heroine, Abigail (Abbie). Abbie is portrayed as someone young but wise in years. She is trying to take over the role of ‘mother’ in the family. A role that is normally taken over by the oldest, but with Abbie’s sister, LeeAnn, she is more concerned with finding a rich man to marry.
“Pooh! I’m gonna find me a man before this trip is out, little sister!” the girl tossed back. “And he’ll be rich! I’m not going all the way out to that awful, uncivilized western land—not if I can help it! I’m going to be married and be a proper lady!”
I almost feel LeeAnn was a spoiled young girl that did not know what she wanted, but it is later stated she was just more interested in her looks and finding a man than anything. Being close to 18 years old she just wanted a life that did not involve backbreaking work on a farm.
Midway thru chapter 1 reader’s are introduced to the hero. A man who is half Cheyenne Indian and half Caucasian, and not overly fond of ‘white’ people but willing to help out. Cheyenne Zeke, or Zeke is someone that portrays a tough-as-nails image to anyone he meets.
Quickly readers meet one of the antagonists, Morris Connely. From the beginning, Connely shows he is opposed to any dealing with Indians. When someone makes a statement to Zeke, Connely is very quick to anger.
“That’s right!” Connely snapped, turning and stalking off to his wagon. Trent shrugged and looked back at Zeke.
The author placed several obstacles and heartache for Abbie to overcome. No one today truly understands the hard road out ancestors traveled moving west. We have pictures, text, and people thoughts but none of us have experienced anything similar. To know that we need to move thousands of miles with only a wagon is daunting. But then we have no bridges to cross, only a dirt path for a road. No way to fully determine if a person is a murderer or our neighbor is someone willing to cover our back when in a fight. Abbie proved over and over she was able to handle anything throw at her. No matter what, she overcame everything.
This book was originally published in 1989. So much racial slurs and prejudice throughout the book. This is not a nice clean read, something you would be willing to share with a young teenager. There is sexual scenes, cussing, attempted rape and even murder. A wonderful written story about how wild the west once was.
Bittner took everything a person could think of about the west, wrote a story that will leave readers questioning the cruelly of our ancestors.
This was an amazing read.
The bunnies and I give this book
carrots.
October 23, 2020
Absolutely the best western series I've ever read. Sweet Prairie Passions is the 1st book in this epic series, but let me tell you, after meeting Zeke and Abbie in this 1st book, you will not be able to stop there. So get ready for the ride of your life in Rosanne Bittner's Savage Destiny Series. If you read but one series in your life, no matter if you're a man or a woman, this book has enough drama to fill your heart with the true west, as Only Rosanne Bittner can do.
Sweet Prairie Passion, the 1st novel in Rosanne Bittner's Savage Destiny Series, starts us on this amazing epic saga that will be with you for a lifetime. Cheyenne Zeke and Abigail Trent meet on the wagon train heading to Oregon. It's not an easy journey, as a matter of fact it's anything but...
Natures elements, heartache, and disaster are ahead for all those seeking a better future in the west. Will the love that's forming between Cheyenne Zeke and Abbie girl be enough to conquer all the prejudice that Zeke knows would haunt them forever or are they destined to remain alone?
Sweet Prairie Passion, the 1st novel in Rosanne Bittner's Savage Destiny Series, starts us on this amazing epic saga that will be with you for a lifetime. Cheyenne Zeke and Abigail Trent meet on the wagon train heading to Oregon. It's not an easy journey, as a matter of fact it's anything but...
Natures elements, heartache, and disaster are ahead for all those seeking a better future in the west. Will the love that's forming between Cheyenne Zeke and Abbie girl be enough to conquer all the prejudice that Zeke knows would haunt them forever or are they destined to remain alone?
March 9, 2017
Pathetic. I have never read so much whining. A 15 year old girl whining through the whole book, puts everyone into danger, falls for the Indian guide and whines for what she wants, the whole time. I cringed reading it.
January 14, 2016
This is the book that I dropped by Bittner years ago and decided to re-pick up after reading some real bomb shells by her. After finishing it, I can see why I originally dropped it @ 22%. The book has some issues, which only makes sense, I guess, being one of the author’s first works, if not the first. So conclusions after finishing it?? I’m glad I finished as I know it’s the first in an epic 7 volume series that covers this relationship through decades. The book got better the further I went along, but I’m glad as heck that the author’s writing improved with the years.
You definitely have to keep going with this book; it doesn’t really start getting any good until about half way through. Once stuff starts happening to Abigail’s family, then we start to get a glimpse of Abigail maturing and changing with the events portrayed. We also start to see a relationship between her and Zeke as a realistic prospect rather than a school girl crush.
I did like the connection between Abigail and Zeke once poop started hitting the proverbial fan. They seemed to draw strength from each other, and their relationship matured the further you went along. There were times where Zeke could get a bit hoity-toity with his beliefs on Indian versus white practices or Abigail could backslide to her tweeny characterization from the first part of the book. Yet, these were only few and far between; overall, their relationship only got better the further into the story we went.
However, it’s in characterization that this book really falls flat. At one point or another, every single character falls prey to a stereotype, even the leads. Most of the secondary characters never leave those stereotypes and the leads backslide into them even towards the end. There’s the self-absorbed older sister, the tweeny heroine (at least in the beginning half), the sly gambler, the slimy preacher, the proud Sioux girl, the Indian haters, the good farmer folk….. Need I go on??? More depth to the people populating her world would have done tons for this title.
And then there’s the world itself. I guess I’ve gotten spoiled by some of the other titles by Bittner I’ve been exposed to so far, as of this writing. In these other works, she pays as much attention to her setting and historical world as much as her romance and it shows. In this volume, the world seems to follow the way of her characters, very stereotypical and flat. The plains of the Oregon Trail and its landmarks fall flat to me; they could be anywhere. The author also throws in terms, places, and things that definitely aren’t historically sound. When it comes to historical romance, this isn’t always a big quibble, yet Bittner does tons better in other novels so I was sad on this point.
So one of Bittner’s best? Heck no. A solid first attempt, first published in 1983. Probably. The relationship and main heroine improves the further you go along. This is also the start to a long epic following the relationship throughout American history. So for that alone, I’ll keep following the series. But shallow characterizations and a poor attempt at historical details keep this from being stellar. Here’s hoping that following volumes improve in these areas…
You definitely have to keep going with this book; it doesn’t really start getting any good until about half way through. Once stuff starts happening to Abigail’s family, then we start to get a glimpse of Abigail maturing and changing with the events portrayed. We also start to see a relationship between her and Zeke as a realistic prospect rather than a school girl crush.
I did like the connection between Abigail and Zeke once poop started hitting the proverbial fan. They seemed to draw strength from each other, and their relationship matured the further you went along. There were times where Zeke could get a bit hoity-toity with his beliefs on Indian versus white practices or Abigail could backslide to her tweeny characterization from the first part of the book. Yet, these were only few and far between; overall, their relationship only got better the further into the story we went.
However, it’s in characterization that this book really falls flat. At one point or another, every single character falls prey to a stereotype, even the leads. Most of the secondary characters never leave those stereotypes and the leads backslide into them even towards the end. There’s the self-absorbed older sister, the tweeny heroine (at least in the beginning half), the sly gambler, the slimy preacher, the proud Sioux girl, the Indian haters, the good farmer folk….. Need I go on??? More depth to the people populating her world would have done tons for this title.
And then there’s the world itself. I guess I’ve gotten spoiled by some of the other titles by Bittner I’ve been exposed to so far, as of this writing. In these other works, she pays as much attention to her setting and historical world as much as her romance and it shows. In this volume, the world seems to follow the way of her characters, very stereotypical and flat. The plains of the Oregon Trail and its landmarks fall flat to me; they could be anywhere. The author also throws in terms, places, and things that definitely aren’t historically sound. When it comes to historical romance, this isn’t always a big quibble, yet Bittner does tons better in other novels so I was sad on this point.
So one of Bittner’s best? Heck no. A solid first attempt, first published in 1983. Probably. The relationship and main heroine improves the further you go along. This is also the start to a long epic following the relationship throughout American history. So for that alone, I’ll keep following the series. But shallow characterizations and a poor attempt at historical details keep this from being stellar. Here’s hoping that following volumes improve in these areas…
August 11, 2016
I found it very hard to put this book down. From page one I was drawn into Zeke and Abbie's story. I became totally absorbed in their struggles for survival. It brought to life the hardships experienced by Indians as well as settlers trying to make a new life out west.
Like many reviewers I found Abbie's age at the beginning of the book a little hard to accept. I doubt you would find many 15 year old girls display the strength and wisdom Abbie continually showed. At times I felt her character was unrealistic. Yes, people facing the horrors she did would mature quickly, but something just didn't sit right for me. I didn't allow this to take away from my enjoyment of the book and Cheyenne Zeke more than made up for the problems I had with this. The internal struggle he dealt with trying to control his feelings towards Abbie and the reasons why he could not love her were beautifully written and brought tears to my eyes on occasions. The hatred he felt towards white people was well deserved and I couldn't imagine what he must have felt discovering his wife and son the way he did. It effected me greatly, an indication of how well this book was written in my opinion.
I thought the ending was particularly well done and I immediately downloaded book two. If you like native American romances then I highly recommend this book. I can't say it was an easy book to read. Some of the events described within it are shocking, but it gives a glimpse of what people went through during this time of American history.
Like many reviewers I found Abbie's age at the beginning of the book a little hard to accept. I doubt you would find many 15 year old girls display the strength and wisdom Abbie continually showed. At times I felt her character was unrealistic. Yes, people facing the horrors she did would mature quickly, but something just didn't sit right for me. I didn't allow this to take away from my enjoyment of the book and Cheyenne Zeke more than made up for the problems I had with this. The internal struggle he dealt with trying to control his feelings towards Abbie and the reasons why he could not love her were beautifully written and brought tears to my eyes on occasions. The hatred he felt towards white people was well deserved and I couldn't imagine what he must have felt discovering his wife and son the way he did. It effected me greatly, an indication of how well this book was written in my opinion.
I thought the ending was particularly well done and I immediately downloaded book two. If you like native American romances then I highly recommend this book. I can't say it was an easy book to read. Some of the events described within it are shocking, but it gives a glimpse of what people went through during this time of American history.
January 7, 2024
moving read
this story was incredible with strangers on a trail to go too oregon for a better life and too start over. Abigal Trent is with her father, brother and sister they lost their mother and her father desperately needed a new life. Abigal is a strong girl/at 15 keep in mind that in that time by age 14 they were considered grown up. Abbie was a hard worker taking care of her family doing most all chores while her older sister was too prissy to lend a hand. So they packed up their wagon and drove with others on the Oregon trail. The men voted too hire Cheyenne Zeke as their guide a half breed and while Zeke had experienced more life and hardship than any white man, they did choose him too lead even though some weren't as happy. Zeke was a warrior and took care of his charges making sure that everyone was safe and knew to follow his orders. Zeke was skilled with weapons and had killed many men, he had suffered a huge part of his heart in a horrible manner that made him unable to feel many emotions .
Abbie is enthralled by Zeke wanting to see him and get to know him by watching his every move and figuring out that Zeke is 25 years old and she is so attracted by his lean muscles and bronze skin. He moves with grace and is in command with a he does. Abbie suffers many heart attacks but is stronger than she ever realized. But along the trail things seem calm at times and Abbie falls in love with Zeke. But he's also a man who sees her as a girl. But the trail provides many heart aches and spiritual visions.
this story was incredible with strangers on a trail to go too oregon for a better life and too start over. Abigal Trent is with her father, brother and sister they lost their mother and her father desperately needed a new life. Abigal is a strong girl/at 15 keep in mind that in that time by age 14 they were considered grown up. Abbie was a hard worker taking care of her family doing most all chores while her older sister was too prissy to lend a hand. So they packed up their wagon and drove with others on the Oregon trail. The men voted too hire Cheyenne Zeke as their guide a half breed and while Zeke had experienced more life and hardship than any white man, they did choose him too lead even though some weren't as happy. Zeke was a warrior and took care of his charges making sure that everyone was safe and knew to follow his orders. Zeke was skilled with weapons and had killed many men, he had suffered a huge part of his heart in a horrible manner that made him unable to feel many emotions .
Abbie is enthralled by Zeke wanting to see him and get to know him by watching his every move and figuring out that Zeke is 25 years old and she is so attracted by his lean muscles and bronze skin. He moves with grace and is in command with a he does. Abbie suffers many heart attacks but is stronger than she ever realized. But along the trail things seem calm at times and Abbie falls in love with Zeke. But he's also a man who sees her as a girl. But the trail provides many heart aches and spiritual visions.
November 22, 2016
This was quite a disappointment. I bought the first three books in this series based on the rave reviews here, but now that I've read the first, I really don't see what all the fuss was about.
I've read other Native American historicals by Rosanne Bittner and this is definitely not one of her best efforts, I have to say. The plot is poor and the lead characters nothing to swoon over. I liked the hero Cheyenne Zeke well enough, just that the romance aspect did not seem to me at all credible. First off, the heroine Abigail is just a child. Even if there are only 10 years between her and her hero, their life experiences widen that gap considerably. Not to mention that Zeke's attitude for the best part of the novel did not at all point to his having falling in love with her. Abbie's, on the other hand, gives off the impression of a teenage crush, not an enduring love.
The thing that jarred the most was Zeke's repetitious reference to the heroine as "Abbie girl, Abbie girl" or "child". Why the heck couldn't he have just called her Abbie? Why "Abbie girl"? God, it was so frustrating! All of which did not make their coming together as a couple very credible to me. One can but hope that the sequels will have something better to offer and that the characters will develop into people I can identify with. And like. But I ain't holdin' my breath!
I've read other Native American historicals by Rosanne Bittner and this is definitely not one of her best efforts, I have to say. The plot is poor and the lead characters nothing to swoon over. I liked the hero Cheyenne Zeke well enough, just that the romance aspect did not seem to me at all credible. First off, the heroine Abigail is just a child. Even if there are only 10 years between her and her hero, their life experiences widen that gap considerably. Not to mention that Zeke's attitude for the best part of the novel did not at all point to his having falling in love with her. Abbie's, on the other hand, gives off the impression of a teenage crush, not an enduring love.
The thing that jarred the most was Zeke's repetitious reference to the heroine as "Abbie girl, Abbie girl" or "child". Why the heck couldn't he have just called her Abbie? Why "Abbie girl"? God, it was so frustrating! All of which did not make their coming together as a couple very credible to me. One can but hope that the sequels will have something better to offer and that the characters will develop into people I can identify with. And like. But I ain't holdin' my breath!
July 3, 2020
I was up and down on this book. When I read the profile on the author it says how she does a lot of historical facts within the book however there is so much discrepancies in this one. I was into it as for a western book but then it started dragging on for a while.I know it was a different time back then but wasn’t real comfortable with Abby being 15 years old. Her sister turned 18 years old in the book, I really would’ve liked it a little better if they could’ve had her at least turn 16 It was making a good love story but at times she was just a little girl and he made sure throughout the book kept calling her a little girl even though he had his way with her. The other things was the Colt 45 and the rifles they referred to. This was 1845, in the war of the states, the Civil War, which was almost a couple of decades later,they sure would’ve like to have some of those guns. At that time they did not have any repeating rifles or revolvers. I did see somebody else review and I also did notice that they referred to gauze and homemade biscuits, gauze was not around then and everything was homemade. They would’ve not known to say homemade. In saying all of that I will try the next book in this series, I want to see if it gets a little better and doesn’t drag on as much.
November 20, 2014
This is the beginning of a big series (really a saga) about Cheyenne Zeke, a half-breed, and Abigail Trent. This first book is really good, but weird because Abigail is only 15 years old throughout the book and Zeke is 25. And while he thinks of her as a "woman-child" he also loves her as much as he would a grown woman.
Because of his heartbreaking past, he fights his love for Abigail to protect her from the hurts a white woman suffers for loving an Indian. Abigail doesn't care and would risk anything to be with him.
The main characters and the great supporting cast are undertaking a trip across the Oregon Trail in the summer of 1945.
A LOT of stuff happens along the way. It isn't predictable most of the time and the supporting cast makes things interesting. I think this Western/Native American romance is much more realistic than most and in certain areas the author doesn't hold anything back.
Since this is an ongoing saga for Zeke and Abigail, they get their HEA for now at the end of the book. But the ending promises much more drama in the future.
Because of his heartbreaking past, he fights his love for Abigail to protect her from the hurts a white woman suffers for loving an Indian. Abigail doesn't care and would risk anything to be with him.
The main characters and the great supporting cast are undertaking a trip across the Oregon Trail in the summer of 1945.
A LOT of stuff happens along the way. It isn't predictable most of the time and the supporting cast makes things interesting. I think this Western/Native American romance is much more realistic than most and in certain areas the author doesn't hold anything back.
Since this is an ongoing saga for Zeke and Abigail, they get their HEA for now at the end of the book. But the ending promises much more drama in the future.
June 16, 2016
One of the best historical romances I've ever read!
In 1845, Abbie and Zeke endure unimaginable hardships as their wagon train heads toward Oregon. Half-Cheyenne and half-white, Zeke must face prejudice from some of the members of the wagon train he's sworn to protect. And at fifteen, Abbie suffers loss after personal loss. In the midst of warring Indian tribes, snakes, harsh weather, and flooding rivers, the two begin to fall in love. But can their love survive when all the world is against it?
The author must have researched the realities of wagon train life in depth, because the book is enthralling! Zeke and Abbie are unforgettable characters, and they're backed up by a cast of equally memorable friends and family. This novel will break your heart in places, but it soars with the majesty of pioneer spirit and Native American spirituality, the intoxicating blend that made "the wild West."
I cannot wait to read more in this underappreciated series!
In 1845, Abbie and Zeke endure unimaginable hardships as their wagon train heads toward Oregon. Half-Cheyenne and half-white, Zeke must face prejudice from some of the members of the wagon train he's sworn to protect. And at fifteen, Abbie suffers loss after personal loss. In the midst of warring Indian tribes, snakes, harsh weather, and flooding rivers, the two begin to fall in love. But can their love survive when all the world is against it?
The author must have researched the realities of wagon train life in depth, because the book is enthralling! Zeke and Abbie are unforgettable characters, and they're backed up by a cast of equally memorable friends and family. This novel will break your heart in places, but it soars with the majesty of pioneer spirit and Native American spirituality, the intoxicating blend that made "the wild West."
I cannot wait to read more in this underappreciated series!
August 11, 2015
Absolutely the best series I've ever read. This 1st book will have you hooked and by the 7th book you will want it to NEVER end. A true classic!! Bittner style!! Absolutely the best western series I've ever read. Sweet Prairie Passions is the 1st book in this epic series, but let me tell you, after meeting Zeke and Abbie in this 1st book, you will not be able to stop there. So get ready for the ride of your life in Rosanne Bittner's Savage Destiny Series. If you read but one series in your life, no matter if you're a man or a woman, this book has enough drama to fill your heart with the true west, as Only Rosanne Bittner can do.
June 12, 2015
I don't know how many times I have re-read this series. As a long time fan of Historicals this series remains my all time favorite. I've owned the originals for over 20 years and just now got them on ebook. And yes, I cried all over again. The series follows them from the time they meet through their whole lives and all that they go through, good and bad. If anyone ever asks who my favorite fictional couple is my answer will always be Zeke and his Abbie girl.
April 24, 2016
Wow I just won this book on Kindle from Rosanne Bittner. I read this series several years ago & it has remained my favorite. My books were mostly used books because at that time I couldn't find all of them new so some are falling apart & many friends borrowed & read mine also so this is really a great surprise. Thanks RB.
May 20, 2013
This is one of the BEST HF-western books in series I have read. I still often catch myself daydreaming and thinking about these stories.
The love between Zeke and Abby is so real. Zeke is the strongest hero in any situation he always wins.
The love between Zeke and Abby is so real. Zeke is the strongest hero in any situation he always wins.
April 2, 2025
Excellent reading
THIS IS THE SECOND TIME I HAVE READ THIS BOOK AND INTEND TO READ THE SERIES. I READ THIS MORE THAN 20 years ago and still have it in pocketbook size. I was so excited to it available for my kindle. thanks again for Zeke and Abbie and the memories.
THIS IS THE SECOND TIME I HAVE READ THIS BOOK AND INTEND TO READ THE SERIES. I READ THIS MORE THAN 20 years ago and still have it in pocketbook size. I was so excited to it available for my kindle. thanks again for Zeke and Abbie and the memories.
Read
June 25, 2009Zeke and Abbie was meant to be together since they laid thier eyes on each other. They had both suffer great losses and they needed each other.
January 5, 2011
Absolute BEST series!!!!!!!!
Read
November 29, 2022Well I finally have read this after dragging my feet for the last twelve years in fear that I'd hate it.
The reads much more like an epic rather than a standard romance novel. Some pretty grousome real life like events happen in this first novel like the entire heroine's family is Brutally murdered.
No exactly something I'm used to in a regular romance novel. Tbh, I think I prefer a little unrealistic stuff in my novels because some of this gets pretty depressing.
I like some sugar coating in romance stories.
I have a complaint about abby's family. They were so one dimensional as characters. I feel like they only existed for the Heroine's suffering because they had the barest presence on the story. Abby's sister is just the mean, vain sister. No other personality to be had. You barely see the brother and the dad is just a grieving widow.
As for the romance in this it left a little to be desired.
I like zeke and Abby well enough but It took him entirely too long to decide a new relationship was worth it, even in liu of her losing her entire family and almost dying multiple times. I mean, come on you love her but you're fine with leaving her to fend for herself? Also, I hate that he was still going on about loving his first wife.
Call me a hopeless, romantic but I can only stand first spouses if they make them terrible or they invalidate the love they had for them a little bit. They aren't real so I'm not going to be ashamed that I have high standards for love in my romances.
Irrelevant pet peeve spoilers ahead.
I hated seeing him carrying on with that Indian woman he was given in the story while Abby had to be subjected to him blatantly sleeping with said woman. I was spitting blood angry. Calling her his woman got me seeing red.
I have a serious question about the whole thing though?
Why after the Indian woman was r*ped did he sleep with her immediately after as was implied? He's a gentleman but he still sleeps with someone after that happens, not very gentlemanly to me. This whole thing kind of poisoned their relationship to me, such is my feelings on doing anything in a story with someone other than the love interest after they meet, although their relationship inproves in the last half of the book but it won't be a fave thing about the book for me.
one of my big pet peeves in old school historical's, the genre in that time period in general not juat this book.
the authors always act like their male characters can't keep it in their pants. It's a cross I have to bear for loving old novels I guess.
I do like this novel but I'd rate it a ❤❤❤❤1/4
My rating is a little higher if I take it as a family saga series rather than as a traditional romance novel.
I think rosanne is a very talented writer because even with all these complaints I still enjoyed myself and was engaged in the story. Here's hoping the next books in the series make up for my complaints in this one.
The reads much more like an epic rather than a standard romance novel. Some pretty grousome real life like events happen in this first novel like the entire heroine's family is Brutally murdered.
No exactly something I'm used to in a regular romance novel. Tbh, I think I prefer a little unrealistic stuff in my novels because some of this gets pretty depressing.
I like some sugar coating in romance stories.
I have a complaint about abby's family. They were so one dimensional as characters. I feel like they only existed for the Heroine's suffering because they had the barest presence on the story. Abby's sister is just the mean, vain sister. No other personality to be had. You barely see the brother and the dad is just a grieving widow.
As for the romance in this it left a little to be desired.
I like zeke and Abby well enough but It took him entirely too long to decide a new relationship was worth it, even in liu of her losing her entire family and almost dying multiple times. I mean, come on you love her but you're fine with leaving her to fend for herself? Also, I hate that he was still going on about loving his first wife.
Call me a hopeless, romantic but I can only stand first spouses if they make them terrible or they invalidate the love they had for them a little bit. They aren't real so I'm not going to be ashamed that I have high standards for love in my romances.
Irrelevant pet peeve spoilers ahead.
I hated seeing him carrying on with that Indian woman he was given in the story while Abby had to be subjected to him blatantly sleeping with said woman. I was spitting blood angry. Calling her his woman got me seeing red.
I have a serious question about the whole thing though?
Why after the Indian woman was r*ped did he sleep with her immediately after as was implied? He's a gentleman but he still sleeps with someone after that happens, not very gentlemanly to me. This whole thing kind of poisoned their relationship to me, such is my feelings on doing anything in a story with someone other than the love interest after they meet, although their relationship inproves in the last half of the book but it won't be a fave thing about the book for me.
one of my big pet peeves in old school historical's, the genre in that time period in general not juat this book.
the authors always act like their male characters can't keep it in their pants. It's a cross I have to bear for loving old novels I guess.
I do like this novel but I'd rate it a ❤❤❤❤1/4
My rating is a little higher if I take it as a family saga series rather than as a traditional romance novel.
I think rosanne is a very talented writer because even with all these complaints I still enjoyed myself and was engaged in the story. Here's hoping the next books in the series make up for my complaints in this one.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 22, 2023
5 stars, I love this. I will say once again we have a whiney 15 year old character who cried a lot but Abbie can be strong when she needs to be. Even though she is the middle child she takes on the role as mother to help out her father as he is a widow. A couple things I didn't love Abbie didn't respect when Zeke didn't want to pursuit a relationship with her and she followed him around kind of like a lost puppy and I do understand she is lost with everything she goes through sometimes it makes her come off younger and immature. Another thing I wasn't a fan of was Zeke repeatedly calling her a child and Abbie Girl it really hammers their age difference and I was ignoring it the best I could. Sometimes I give 5 stars just based on a feeling I get at the end of a book and that was the case for this book, despite it's flaws I loved it.
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