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Westward Wanderers #1
Where He Leads
Ami Kent couldn't live in her pampered, luxurious world for another day.
Bernard Regent demanded her hand in marriage, leaving her no choice in the matter. No choice but to escape.
When desperate Martha Davis reveals her need for a mother's helper on the trail, Ami knows it's her only way to freedom. But schooner life is hardly a tea party. With the sunset always before her, she carries on.
Can her faith (and handsome trail scout, Shiloh Talon,) help her through?
Ride along for an unforgettable adventure in the wilderness that was the Oregon Trail.
A complete story with NO cliffhangers.
"A wonderful unforgettable western historical story"–Amazon Reviewer"Amethyst and Shiloh came to life and I felt as if I was part of their dangerous journey, fascinated with their personal and individual challenges. I enjoyed it! Recommend!"–Amazon Reviewer"I was constantly wondering what would happen next."–Amazon Reviewer
Bernard Regent demanded her hand in marriage, leaving her no choice in the matter. No choice but to escape.
When desperate Martha Davis reveals her need for a mother's helper on the trail, Ami knows it's her only way to freedom. But schooner life is hardly a tea party. With the sunset always before her, she carries on.
Can her faith (and handsome trail scout, Shiloh Talon,) help her through?
Ride along for an unforgettable adventure in the wilderness that was the Oregon Trail.
A complete story with NO cliffhangers.
"A wonderful unforgettable western historical story"–Amazon Reviewer"Amethyst and Shiloh came to life and I felt as if I was part of their dangerous journey, fascinated with their personal and individual challenges. I enjoyed it! Recommend!"–Amazon Reviewer"I was constantly wondering what would happen next."–Amazon Reviewer
275 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 15, 2019
727 people are currently reading
261 people want to read
About the author
Angela C. Castillo
88 books262 followersWould you like a FREE e-book and more info about Angela's writing? Sign up here! http://eepurl.com/bLyYxb
Angela Castillo is a writer mom with four small children. She lives in the small town of Bastrop, the city she grew up in. She studied Practical Theology and music at Christ for the Nations in Dallas. She has had many small works published in periodicals and one self-published volume of short stories and poems. She and her sister, Cherie Haines own several online stores featuring Cherie's photographs and Angela's prose. Angela is currently working on her latest novel, a children's book.
Angela Castillo is a writer mom with four small children. She lives in the small town of Bastrop, the city she grew up in. She studied Practical Theology and music at Christ for the Nations in Dallas. She has had many small works published in periodicals and one self-published volume of short stories and poems. She and her sister, Cherie Haines own several online stores featuring Cherie's photographs and Angela's prose. Angela is currently working on her latest novel, a children's book.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 74 reviews
June 5, 2020
After Ami's mother passed away, her wealthy father soon married a woman close to the age of his daughter. This woman wants Ami out of the way. So she influences her husband to marry his daughter off to a man Ami knows has a cruel heart. Ami's disturbing memories of him during their school days make it impossible for her to consider him as a spouse. But her father will only listen to his wife. Ami's mother had not come from wealth and had taught her daughter humility and that there are things more important in life than money. When Ami's father tells her of the arranged marriage, Ami becomes desperate. She decides to join a close friend of her deceased mother on a wagon train to Oregon. But Ami could not have imagined all the hardships and trials she would encounter.
Shiloh is attracted to Ami immediately upon laying eyes on her but knows that a woman of wealth like Ami would never give him a second glance. On the trail, there are many times he saves her or helps her in one way or another. A friendship develops. During the months' long journey, Ami matures in her understanding of life and what really matters. Will this wagon train and Ami, in particular, survive encountering the threat of Indians, wild animals, dangerous circumstances, greedy bounty hunters, and more?
It was nice to see Ami develop from a girl used to indulgences and wealth, to one who learns how to survive. Her past ideals were challenged when having to make life and death decisions. Helping those around her became more important than her own safety. And she meets honest people who, although poor, would help their neighbors without expecting anything in return.
The love story with Shiloh develops in a believable manner. Certainly, coming from two very different backgrounds, there were things each of them had to learn to overcome. But the author did a nice job of developing the characters to where the reader roots for them to find a path to each other. The story moves along nicely, with plenty of action to keep the reader hooked to the end. I listened to this on Audible and I really enjoyed listening to this narrator's voice.
Shiloh is attracted to Ami immediately upon laying eyes on her but knows that a woman of wealth like Ami would never give him a second glance. On the trail, there are many times he saves her or helps her in one way or another. A friendship develops. During the months' long journey, Ami matures in her understanding of life and what really matters. Will this wagon train and Ami, in particular, survive encountering the threat of Indians, wild animals, dangerous circumstances, greedy bounty hunters, and more?
It was nice to see Ami develop from a girl used to indulgences and wealth, to one who learns how to survive. Her past ideals were challenged when having to make life and death decisions. Helping those around her became more important than her own safety. And she meets honest people who, although poor, would help their neighbors without expecting anything in return.
The love story with Shiloh develops in a believable manner. Certainly, coming from two very different backgrounds, there were things each of them had to learn to overcome. But the author did a nice job of developing the characters to where the reader roots for them to find a path to each other. The story moves along nicely, with plenty of action to keep the reader hooked to the end. I listened to this on Audible and I really enjoyed listening to this narrator's voice.
June 2, 2024
Fleeing an arranged marriage and step-mother who just wants her gone, Ami runs away and joins a wagon train to Oregon. Her friendship with Jerusha was so encouraging.
Shiloh is attracted to Ami from the very beginning. She notices him right off too. The mental battles both Ami and Shiloh face about their different backgrounds and whether or not a future is possible is very believable. Their love is sweet and they have an interesting happily ever after.
Shiloh is attracted to Ami from the very beginning. She notices him right off too. The mental battles both Ami and Shiloh face about their different backgrounds and whether or not a future is possible is very believable. Their love is sweet and they have an interesting happily ever after.
May 18, 2020
The days of when the father of the parents chose when and who you are to marry. She was rich, pampered, and didn’t like who they chose. A delightful story of how she changed along the dusty wagon train.
July 9, 2023
One of my favourite topics...pioneers. A lovely reading escape.
May 3, 2020
Sweet story, and clean
A young woman, who recently lost her mother, them had to deal with her father marrying soom after a girl just a few years older than she was, is faced with the prospect of marrying a repugnant man. Earlier in the day she had come across a man heading for Oregon, where her friend planned to take the couple's younger children to meet with her husband, from whom she had not heard in a while. Using the would-be fiance's sister's debut as an excuse, she buys sturdy shoes, sun bonnets, and more practical clothes, then finds out she will have to leave most of her clothes behind, so she donates them to a church. She takes her horse, who really isn't fit for trail riding day after day, then ends up having to sell him before he's permanently lamed. During her time with the wagon train, she shows a willingness to pitch in and learn. The hardships of the trail challemgge her, but she reminds herself that the alternative is marriage to a repugnant, self-satisfied man. She goes through several adventures, willing to trust the scout's word about the different tribes and his and the healer's word about herbal medicines. They finally realize their love for one me another and get married. A group from the wagon train splits off to go to Montana instead, and they go with that group. While the protagonist has learned she needs to forgive her father, they're both realistic. The bounty hunters from whom she escapes were responding to a $1000 reward offered by her father for her capture and safe return, and they'd figured out who she was despite her alias, and knew she was headed toward Oregon, so going to Montana instead covered their tracks. She has to decide when she will let her father know she is safe, and whether or not she will ever disclose her location , for fear he may not homor her choices.
There is a sample from another of the author's books in the back.
A young woman, who recently lost her mother, them had to deal with her father marrying soom after a girl just a few years older than she was, is faced with the prospect of marrying a repugnant man. Earlier in the day she had come across a man heading for Oregon, where her friend planned to take the couple's younger children to meet with her husband, from whom she had not heard in a while. Using the would-be fiance's sister's debut as an excuse, she buys sturdy shoes, sun bonnets, and more practical clothes, then finds out she will have to leave most of her clothes behind, so she donates them to a church. She takes her horse, who really isn't fit for trail riding day after day, then ends up having to sell him before he's permanently lamed. During her time with the wagon train, she shows a willingness to pitch in and learn. The hardships of the trail challemgge her, but she reminds herself that the alternative is marriage to a repugnant, self-satisfied man. She goes through several adventures, willing to trust the scout's word about the different tribes and his and the healer's word about herbal medicines. They finally realize their love for one me another and get married. A group from the wagon train splits off to go to Montana instead, and they go with that group. While the protagonist has learned she needs to forgive her father, they're both realistic. The bounty hunters from whom she escapes were responding to a $1000 reward offered by her father for her capture and safe return, and they'd figured out who she was despite her alias, and knew she was headed toward Oregon, so going to Montana instead covered their tracks. She has to decide when she will let her father know she is safe, and whether or not she will ever disclose her location , for fear he may not homor her choices.
There is a sample from another of the author's books in the back.
July 1, 2020
Searching For A New Life
Ami was a poor little rich girl who always got what she wanted. She had a beautiful horse named Mister and she loved to ride him all over the area. She enjoyed going to the finest shops and buying fine, expensive trinkets. She was pampered and got whatever she wanted.
Her parents decided it was time for her to marry and a selection was made from suitable suitors. A rich young man was chosen for her. She was unhappy with the man her parents chose. To avoid being married to him, she began to make plans to run away, join a wagon train headed for Oregon, and make her way across the country.
She packed dainty little dresses and pretty little slippers and got on her horse and headed to the location where people were gathering to begin the long trip. It did not take long to decide that her wardrobe was inadequately the trip. The dresses and matching slippers just were not up to the miles of dusty roads.
Read this book about Ami and the lessons she learned. I really enjoy reading books by Angela Castillo and this was definitely a book I will remember.
Ami was a poor little rich girl who always got what she wanted. She had a beautiful horse named Mister and she loved to ride him all over the area. She enjoyed going to the finest shops and buying fine, expensive trinkets. She was pampered and got whatever she wanted.
Her parents decided it was time for her to marry and a selection was made from suitable suitors. A rich young man was chosen for her. She was unhappy with the man her parents chose. To avoid being married to him, she began to make plans to run away, join a wagon train headed for Oregon, and make her way across the country.
She packed dainty little dresses and pretty little slippers and got on her horse and headed to the location where people were gathering to begin the long trip. It did not take long to decide that her wardrobe was inadequately the trip. The dresses and matching slippers just were not up to the miles of dusty roads.
Read this book about Ami and the lessons she learned. I really enjoy reading books by Angela Castillo and this was definitely a book I will remember.
March 8, 2022
Good and Thoughtful One Time Read
In “Where He Leads,” we meet the female lead Amethyst (Ami) Kent doing some shopping in the town of Memphis. She grew up in a comfortable household with means, servants, and entitlement. I figured it would be some kind of troupe on rich girl is offended by any requests made on and of her, expecting much and working little. But I was wrong. It was a metamorphose of our female lead, from nice but never challenged heroine to a compelling human being who worked, got dirty, clung to her faith, and became a woman who lived out that faith on the Oregon Trail.
Ami was a motherless child, having lost her Godly mother a few years earlier. As an only child, her Dad and Mom doted on her and bestowed on her all her heart could desire. But, the day came when her Dad married a girl a few years older than her with a reputation and attitude Ami experienced during her school days. This step-mother came INTO the home and began to squeeze Ami OUT of the home. She also misrepresented Ami’s actions to the new husband, Ami’s Dad. The linchpin action occurred when both Dad & faux mom gave her an ultimatum; accept the all-but-arranged marriage to a disgusting man who had shown unkindness to both people and animals or her parents would sell her beloved horse Mister. Left with what appeared as no options, Ami considers the need for a mother’s helper casually mentioned by Martha Davis for her soon journey to Oregon to join her husband. Without any real clear knowledge of what that cross country journey would entail, Ami makes secret plans to leave her home and escape via the trail.
From the point that Ami sneaks away in the dawn hours to join the wagon train marks what seems to be the middle-part of the story. It is here, we are introduced to a myriad of characters, who I assume represent the type of people who in real-time, traveled the Oregon Trail. Some of these characters were honest, straightforward people looking for a better life, some sought adventure, some were not straightforward or honest, and some were downright duplicitous. And, as in this story, some met that special someone, which they married on the journey and then continued on to the west, like the hero Shiloh Talon and the heroine Ami Kent.
What I Appreciated:
Ever since I read my first book by Helen Markley Miller, I have gravitated to stories of brave pioneers who traversed our country under very spartan circumstances. I felt that Castillo gave a fair picture of Oregon Trail travel. She showed the very monochromatic aspect of much of the trail. Ami and Martha struggled with constant work, no 40-hour work weeks. At the same time, the author showed that life happens, people meet, make life commitments, are generous and kind to those in need or are wicked and opportunistic, such as the bounty hunters, who made a living kidnapping people.
I applauded the maturity that developed in Ami’s character. Shiloh noticed the beautiful, unattached Ami from the beginning, but he kept his interest at the beginning restrained. He wanted to see how she would handle the realities of the trail. At first, when he gave constructive help, Ami bristled at his comments. I thought, well, she was just to proud about taking help. But, after thought, I think she felt helpless, unschooled, unprepared, and this was a new and embarrassing position for her.
I loved that Shiloh gave her room to grow, helped where he could, and was there when it was really needed. Their relationship grew nicely. Shiloh was a wonderful hero and God-honoring example to her and others. He was a steady hero, a hero that did not exhibit the stability issues found in many current literary heroes.
The situation with Ami’s horse, was very nicely developed. We were given tidbits concerning Ami’s emotional attachment to her horse. I knew a “punch” was coming, in fact dreaded it. I was invested in the horse and human relationship. At the climax of the Mister’s situation, I cried. Castillo knew how to build and draw up tight an episode. It was the horse vignette that yanked me smack into the second part of the story.
Things I Think Could Have Been Tweaked:
After Ami’s rescue, things moved along very swiftly and the end came way to fast in my view. The epilogue should have been longer. We should have found something about Ami’s Dad, the vindictive step-mother, and how and what Shiloh and Ami did once they reach Montana. Did he go into law-enforcement, farming, ranching, or…? Did any more bounty hunters make an appearance?
Conclusion: I have already read book two in the series and I’m currently reading book 3. If you like pioneer stories with a slight twist, this story should suit you very well.
In “Where He Leads,” we meet the female lead Amethyst (Ami) Kent doing some shopping in the town of Memphis. She grew up in a comfortable household with means, servants, and entitlement. I figured it would be some kind of troupe on rich girl is offended by any requests made on and of her, expecting much and working little. But I was wrong. It was a metamorphose of our female lead, from nice but never challenged heroine to a compelling human being who worked, got dirty, clung to her faith, and became a woman who lived out that faith on the Oregon Trail.
Ami was a motherless child, having lost her Godly mother a few years earlier. As an only child, her Dad and Mom doted on her and bestowed on her all her heart could desire. But, the day came when her Dad married a girl a few years older than her with a reputation and attitude Ami experienced during her school days. This step-mother came INTO the home and began to squeeze Ami OUT of the home. She also misrepresented Ami’s actions to the new husband, Ami’s Dad. The linchpin action occurred when both Dad & faux mom gave her an ultimatum; accept the all-but-arranged marriage to a disgusting man who had shown unkindness to both people and animals or her parents would sell her beloved horse Mister. Left with what appeared as no options, Ami considers the need for a mother’s helper casually mentioned by Martha Davis for her soon journey to Oregon to join her husband. Without any real clear knowledge of what that cross country journey would entail, Ami makes secret plans to leave her home and escape via the trail.
From the point that Ami sneaks away in the dawn hours to join the wagon train marks what seems to be the middle-part of the story. It is here, we are introduced to a myriad of characters, who I assume represent the type of people who in real-time, traveled the Oregon Trail. Some of these characters were honest, straightforward people looking for a better life, some sought adventure, some were not straightforward or honest, and some were downright duplicitous. And, as in this story, some met that special someone, which they married on the journey and then continued on to the west, like the hero Shiloh Talon and the heroine Ami Kent.
What I Appreciated:
Ever since I read my first book by Helen Markley Miller, I have gravitated to stories of brave pioneers who traversed our country under very spartan circumstances. I felt that Castillo gave a fair picture of Oregon Trail travel. She showed the very monochromatic aspect of much of the trail. Ami and Martha struggled with constant work, no 40-hour work weeks. At the same time, the author showed that life happens, people meet, make life commitments, are generous and kind to those in need or are wicked and opportunistic, such as the bounty hunters, who made a living kidnapping people.
I applauded the maturity that developed in Ami’s character. Shiloh noticed the beautiful, unattached Ami from the beginning, but he kept his interest at the beginning restrained. He wanted to see how she would handle the realities of the trail. At first, when he gave constructive help, Ami bristled at his comments. I thought, well, she was just to proud about taking help. But, after thought, I think she felt helpless, unschooled, unprepared, and this was a new and embarrassing position for her.
I loved that Shiloh gave her room to grow, helped where he could, and was there when it was really needed. Their relationship grew nicely. Shiloh was a wonderful hero and God-honoring example to her and others. He was a steady hero, a hero that did not exhibit the stability issues found in many current literary heroes.
The situation with Ami’s horse, was very nicely developed. We were given tidbits concerning Ami’s emotional attachment to her horse. I knew a “punch” was coming, in fact dreaded it. I was invested in the horse and human relationship. At the climax of the Mister’s situation, I cried. Castillo knew how to build and draw up tight an episode. It was the horse vignette that yanked me smack into the second part of the story.
Things I Think Could Have Been Tweaked:
After Ami’s rescue, things moved along very swiftly and the end came way to fast in my view. The epilogue should have been longer. We should have found something about Ami’s Dad, the vindictive step-mother, and how and what Shiloh and Ami did once they reach Montana. Did he go into law-enforcement, farming, ranching, or…? Did any more bounty hunters make an appearance?
Conclusion: I have already read book two in the series and I’m currently reading book 3. If you like pioneer stories with a slight twist, this story should suit you very well.
February 13, 2021
Where He Leads (Westward Wanderers #1)
by Angela Castillo
Narrated by Ginger White
I received a copy from the author and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
This is Book 1 in the Westward Wanderers series. Amethyst Kent or Ami as she prefers to be called, knows when her father becomes intent on arranging her marriage, that it can not possibly take place. For Ami has to marry for love and refuses to accept anything less. Her suitor is revealed to be none other than Bernard Regent, Ami has to save herself from this loveless union.
Her salvation comes in the form of a rough life on the Oregon Trail as a womans help. She knows that coming from wealth this will be the last place anyone would hunt for her, no one will suspect this plan. But this decision, reckless as it may be, is her only choice to escape the nightmare of what her life will become if she stays.
So Ami swallows her pride and takes the trail hardships head on. To assist her along with the other travellers, is a trail guide in the form of Shiloh Talon. With him ever present the daily struggles become bearable.
The story is Christian fiction with a beautiful, sweet and romantic twist. Ami, coming from such a wealthy background is totally unprepared for this life. I can't imagine what it would be like for myself let alone for a woman such as Ami with all her accustomed finery yet adapt she does.
Her character is well-developed and not the spoiled, whining brat one would imagine her to be. She confronts and overcomes many challenges under the watchful eye of Shiloh. Their relationship develops nicely, intitally he assumes she is out of her depth and foolish to attmpt the voyage but as time passes and their time together increases a mutual respect is discovered.
An entertaining and historical tale, well-narrated by Ginger White who allows us to become entangled in their relationships in a pleasant and effective recreation of this era by the author.
by Angela Castillo
Narrated by Ginger White
I received a copy from the author and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
This is Book 1 in the Westward Wanderers series. Amethyst Kent or Ami as she prefers to be called, knows when her father becomes intent on arranging her marriage, that it can not possibly take place. For Ami has to marry for love and refuses to accept anything less. Her suitor is revealed to be none other than Bernard Regent, Ami has to save herself from this loveless union.
Her salvation comes in the form of a rough life on the Oregon Trail as a womans help. She knows that coming from wealth this will be the last place anyone would hunt for her, no one will suspect this plan. But this decision, reckless as it may be, is her only choice to escape the nightmare of what her life will become if she stays.
So Ami swallows her pride and takes the trail hardships head on. To assist her along with the other travellers, is a trail guide in the form of Shiloh Talon. With him ever present the daily struggles become bearable.
The story is Christian fiction with a beautiful, sweet and romantic twist. Ami, coming from such a wealthy background is totally unprepared for this life. I can't imagine what it would be like for myself let alone for a woman such as Ami with all her accustomed finery yet adapt she does.
Her character is well-developed and not the spoiled, whining brat one would imagine her to be. She confronts and overcomes many challenges under the watchful eye of Shiloh. Their relationship develops nicely, intitally he assumes she is out of her depth and foolish to attmpt the voyage but as time passes and their time together increases a mutual respect is discovered.
An entertaining and historical tale, well-narrated by Ginger White who allows us to become entangled in their relationships in a pleasant and effective recreation of this era by the author.
July 6, 2024
What a great inspirational historical romance. Just enough suspense to keep me turning pages, but not enough to get stressed out. What a fiesty, brave heroine! I loved the characters and learning all about the hardships faced by those who traveled the Oregon Trail in wagons. Quite something! I'm very impressed by this author's work and hope to read another in the series.
I wouldn’t want to marry this guy, either:
“A fine rack of lamb, Mrs. Kent.” He balanced the food on his fork and folded it into thick meaty lips.
Staring was a sin second only to swearing, but Ami, morbidly fascinated, found it hard to pull her eyes away. Forcing her attention to her own plate of food, she found her appetite diminishing with every satisfied smack of Bernard’s lips.
Quite a bit of subtle humor in the book, like the following partial excerpts:
A covered wagon was about the slowest mode of transportation one could hope to find to run away with, unless one decided to travel on the back of a turtle.
They’d made camp by a stream but due to earlier rain there’d been plenty of mosquitoes, so the women and children had pushed out some of the furniture and chests to sleep inside the wagon. It was hot, dank, and so crowded Ami felt she was surrounded by a litter of puppies, but she preferred this arrangement to being eaten alive.
Ami’s eyes followed their stares, and she froze, solid as a pond in a blizzard.
I wouldn’t want to marry this guy, either:
“A fine rack of lamb, Mrs. Kent.” He balanced the food on his fork and folded it into thick meaty lips.
Staring was a sin second only to swearing, but Ami, morbidly fascinated, found it hard to pull her eyes away. Forcing her attention to her own plate of food, she found her appetite diminishing with every satisfied smack of Bernard’s lips.
Quite a bit of subtle humor in the book, like the following partial excerpts:
A covered wagon was about the slowest mode of transportation one could hope to find to run away with, unless one decided to travel on the back of a turtle.
They’d made camp by a stream but due to earlier rain there’d been plenty of mosquitoes, so the women and children had pushed out some of the furniture and chests to sleep inside the wagon. It was hot, dank, and so crowded Ami felt she was surrounded by a litter of puppies, but she preferred this arrangement to being eaten alive.
Ami’s eyes followed their stares, and she froze, solid as a pond in a blizzard.
December 18, 2019
Disappointing Oregon Trail Romance Novel
As an Oregonian myself, I am always drawn to books that are about Oregon or take place here. So I was intrigued by this book about a young woman traveling and finding romance on the Oregon Trail. Unfortunately, several quality issues made enjoying it difficult. The first things I noticed were several grammar and punctuation errors right in the first paragraph. I am always put off by a book that starts like that. Grammar and punctuation rules exist to make communication easier, so a book filled with errors of these types can make for a tedious read. The language itself felt stilted in places, especially dialogue, while in other spots, it felt too modern. I expect language in historical fiction, even a romance, to be somewhat heightened compared to modern speech, so it is disappointing when it is not. The characters felt two-dimensional to me, the villains seeming not to have one spark of light and the good characters seeming to be too good to be believable. Unfortunately, for these reasons, I cannot recommend this book.
I received a free copy of this book, but that did not affect my review.
My book blog: https://www.readingfanaticreviews.com
As an Oregonian myself, I am always drawn to books that are about Oregon or take place here. So I was intrigued by this book about a young woman traveling and finding romance on the Oregon Trail. Unfortunately, several quality issues made enjoying it difficult. The first things I noticed were several grammar and punctuation errors right in the first paragraph. I am always put off by a book that starts like that. Grammar and punctuation rules exist to make communication easier, so a book filled with errors of these types can make for a tedious read. The language itself felt stilted in places, especially dialogue, while in other spots, it felt too modern. I expect language in historical fiction, even a romance, to be somewhat heightened compared to modern speech, so it is disappointing when it is not. The characters felt two-dimensional to me, the villains seeming not to have one spark of light and the good characters seeming to be too good to be believable. Unfortunately, for these reasons, I cannot recommend this book.
I received a free copy of this book, but that did not affect my review.
My book blog: https://www.readingfanaticreviews.com
December 17, 2019
Great Story of Traveling West to Oregon
This was a wonderful story and a peek into the lives of the people who traveled westward in wagon trains to Oregon.
Amethyst Kent - the daughter of a wealthy man misses her deceased mother and doesn’t get along with her new stepmother who is only a few years older the Ami.
The close relationship with her father has changed as he seems to always take the stepmother’s side. When he decides she accept the request of a man she has no desire to marry, she makes a drastic decision to go along with a friend and her family as they head to Oregon. Traveling in a wagon train is quite different than the pampered life Ami has always lived.
Shiloh Talon, a handsome trail scout, has his eye on Ami as he tries to guide her and protect her as they travel. He dreams of more with her but doesn’t think he’s up to her level.
When some people make plans against Ami, Shiloh May be her only hope to save her.
Shiloh and Ami both had faith in God to lead them where He wanted them to go.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This was a wonderful story and a peek into the lives of the people who traveled westward in wagon trains to Oregon.
Amethyst Kent - the daughter of a wealthy man misses her deceased mother and doesn’t get along with her new stepmother who is only a few years older the Ami.
The close relationship with her father has changed as he seems to always take the stepmother’s side. When he decides she accept the request of a man she has no desire to marry, she makes a drastic decision to go along with a friend and her family as they head to Oregon. Traveling in a wagon train is quite different than the pampered life Ami has always lived.
Shiloh Talon, a handsome trail scout, has his eye on Ami as he tries to guide her and protect her as they travel. He dreams of more with her but doesn’t think he’s up to her level.
When some people make plans against Ami, Shiloh May be her only hope to save her.
Shiloh and Ami both had faith in God to lead them where He wanted them to go.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 29, 2020
(This is a review of the audio book version)
This tale of a girl who joined a wagon train to Oregon in order to escape marriage to a man she didn't love was an enjoyable story to escape into. Sometimes Ami frustrated me, as she really thought that she knew everything, when she actually had a lot to learn. She was hard-headed for much of the story, yet became more and more likable as she grew and matured emotionally on her journey. I really liked Shiloh and thought he was a great hero. He was knowledgeable and strong, yet also kind and loved God. After a long journey through the novel, the end wrapped up very quickly. I would have loved a longer epilogue that gave the reader a deeper view into what Shiloh and Ami's new life was like. The narrator was pleasant to listen to and worked to make slight differences in voices to match the various characters.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
This tale of a girl who joined a wagon train to Oregon in order to escape marriage to a man she didn't love was an enjoyable story to escape into. Sometimes Ami frustrated me, as she really thought that she knew everything, when she actually had a lot to learn. She was hard-headed for much of the story, yet became more and more likable as she grew and matured emotionally on her journey. I really liked Shiloh and thought he was a great hero. He was knowledgeable and strong, yet also kind and loved God. After a long journey through the novel, the end wrapped up very quickly. I would have loved a longer epilogue that gave the reader a deeper view into what Shiloh and Ami's new life was like. The narrator was pleasant to listen to and worked to make slight differences in voices to match the various characters.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
January 13, 2020
Ami grew up in a wealthy family in Memphis. When her father wants her to marry a man she despises she runs away to Oregon on a wagon train with Hanna Davis and her children who are going to Oregon to join her Husband and 2 older children who are already in Oregon. Along the trail she must learn to adjust to the hard life of a Pioneer woman. She meets Shiloh, the scout for the wagon train and together they face many challenges. When Ami's father hires a bounty hunter to bring her back to Memphis Shiloh rescues her. The realize they are in love and change their destination from Oregon to Montana where they build a cabin and Shiloh makes a living as a trapper. This is an interesting book about travel along the Oregon Trail. This is the first book I've read by Angela Costello and I'll definitely read more of her books.
November 16, 2020
Ami owns a special horse named Mister - the only thing she has left from her mother. Poor Ami is heartbroken when Mister isn’t doing so well on the Oregon Trail. Ami ends up on the trail as a mother’s helper, but she’s mostly running away from an arranged marriage to an awful man. The trail isn’t the safest place, especially for a rich girl, but Shiloh Talon, the handsome trail scout, promises to keep her safe.
This is my first read by this author, and I really liked it! I liked the voice - it had a light-hearted feel amidst serious challenges and circumstances. The starts off in Memphis, which is where I lived for over 20 years. (I'm guessing it's the Memphis in Tennessee.) And to have a character named Shiloh is neat since that's my daughter's name.
This is my first read by this author, and I really liked it! I liked the voice - it had a light-hearted feel amidst serious challenges and circumstances. The starts off in Memphis, which is where I lived for over 20 years. (I'm guessing it's the Memphis in Tennessee.) And to have a character named Shiloh is neat since that's my daughter's name.
January 28, 2022
Shiloh and Ami
This is an exciting and adventurous story of a wagon train trip headed to Oregon. Amethyst, Ami, is a young debutant and is being forced by her father and stepmother to marry an obnoxious man that she didn’t like, much less love. Ami arranges to run away with an acquaintance and her children to go to Oregon by wagon train to meet her husband and sons. She meets a ruggedly handsome young trail scout, Shiloh and along with all the trials and tribulations they fall in love. Ami’s father puts a bounty on her head and she is kidnapped and then rescued by Shiloh. You will enjoy discovering how they find their happily ever after.
This is an exciting and adventurous story of a wagon train trip headed to Oregon. Amethyst, Ami, is a young debutant and is being forced by her father and stepmother to marry an obnoxious man that she didn’t like, much less love. Ami arranges to run away with an acquaintance and her children to go to Oregon by wagon train to meet her husband and sons. She meets a ruggedly handsome young trail scout, Shiloh and along with all the trials and tribulations they fall in love. Ami’s father puts a bounty on her head and she is kidnapped and then rescued by Shiloh. You will enjoy discovering how they find their happily ever after.
December 19, 2019
Many dangers wait for the people who travel on the Oregon Trail. Amethyst Kent has joined the wagon train to avoid marriage to a man she loathes and fears her father will force her to marry. She is kidnapped by bounty hunters, but her faith is God is strong. Will Amethyst fall in love with the man who rescues her from these outlaws?
I love this author! This book is the start of a new series, and I loved it so much I purchased it from Amazon.
I received a copy of this book from Book Sprout, but my review is voluntary.
I love this author! This book is the start of a new series, and I loved it so much I purchased it from Amazon.
I received a copy of this book from Book Sprout, but my review is voluntary.
June 20, 2022
I enjoyed Ami and what little we know of Shiloh. The details of the trail life were interesting, but I was disappointed that the stories skipped weeks at a time.
The romance was absent. The two meet and share surface-level greetings. He gives her a piece of advice a bit later, and then all the sudden they are in each other's arms and declaring love?
The climax situation was missing a lot of details, making it seem very contrived. How did the bad guys discover her secret? How did the her father's message travel so far? How could everyone seem to know about it but her?
The romance was absent. The two meet and share surface-level greetings. He gives her a piece of advice a bit later, and then all the sudden they are in each other's arms and declaring love?
The climax situation was missing a lot of details, making it seem very contrived. How did the bad guys discover her secret? How did the her father's message travel so far? How could everyone seem to know about it but her?
December 16, 2019
Book one in the Westward Wanderers series, well written it held my interest until the end,a clean Christian Historic Fiction story. Amethyst Kent joins a prairie schooner on the Oregon Trail to be a mother's helper for Martha Davis, Shiloh Talon,is a handsome trail scout, guiding the way. I enjoyed reading their story. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 17, 2019
Where He Leads is the first book in the Westward Wanderers series and is a great start to this new series. The characters in this story are well developed, strong, and courageous as they head west on the Oregon trail to a new beginning. The storyline is well written and descriptive, showing us the hardships and the faith that took them through their travels.
I am looking forward to reading more books in this series.
I read and reviewed this book with no obligation.
I am looking forward to reading more books in this series.
I read and reviewed this book with no obligation.
January 26, 2022
I love a good story of when the West was won!
Ms .Castillo gives us a wonderful look into the life on the Oregon Trail. It was not for the faint of heart. Many people today feel that it is a trial to wait in line at a Starbucks when those came before us have given their blood , swet and years to found this country. We all need to remember that when times are tough. I can't wait to read more. Enjoy!
Ms .Castillo gives us a wonderful look into the life on the Oregon Trail. It was not for the faint of heart. Many people today feel that it is a trial to wait in line at a Starbucks when those came before us have given their blood , swet and years to found this country. We all need to remember that when times are tough. I can't wait to read more. Enjoy!
December 22, 2023
An Inspirational Story
Ami was unhappy in her well to do life as her father was arranging her marriage to a man she refused to accept. She decided to leave on the wagon trail headed to Oregon where she met Shiloh, the scout. Although the travel was rougher than anything she had ever endured it proved better than an unwanted marriage. Surprisingly she fell in love with the experienced scout and wound up with a happy, fulfilled life
Ami was unhappy in her well to do life as her father was arranging her marriage to a man she refused to accept. She decided to leave on the wagon trail headed to Oregon where she met Shiloh, the scout. Although the travel was rougher than anything she had ever endured it proved better than an unwanted marriage. Surprisingly she fell in love with the experienced scout and wound up with a happy, fulfilled life
December 16, 2019
This book is well written and holds your attention. It has action, drama, suspense and romance. Once you start reading, you don't want to stop, you just have to know what happens next. If you like christian historical romance, you will love this book. I received an ARC copy and was not required to write a review. All opinions expressed are my own.
January 3, 2020
This is the 1st book I've read written by Angela Castillo; she has done a great job at writing a good book; I can’t wait to read more of her books.
The story line caught my attention at the very beginning and kept me interested throughout the entire book.
I loved the chemistry between the characters.
I received a free copy of this book via booksprout and I’m voluntarily leaving a review.
The story line caught my attention at the very beginning and kept me interested throughout the entire book.
I loved the chemistry between the characters.
I received a free copy of this book via booksprout and I’m voluntarily leaving a review.
February 16, 2020
Wagon train escape
What does a young do when she is told she is to marry a man she detests? She joins a wagon train. Being a pampered young lady she finds out about hard work and long days of walking. However, she also finds good friends. It is an enjoyable story of how people sacrificed for the hope of a new life.
What does a young do when she is told she is to marry a man she detests? She joins a wagon train. Being a pampered young lady she finds out about hard work and long days of walking. However, she also finds good friends. It is an enjoyable story of how people sacrificed for the hope of a new life.
September 26, 2020
Wonderful story
A wonderful story about a young lady who was raised in wealth and privilege who runs away from being forced to marry a man she did not love. She went on the Oregon Trail to help another family and to get away from her horrible situation. This is a great story about the hardships on the Oregon Trail and a love that blossoms between her and the Trail scout.
A wonderful story about a young lady who was raised in wealth and privilege who runs away from being forced to marry a man she did not love. She went on the Oregon Trail to help another family and to get away from her horrible situation. This is a great story about the hardships on the Oregon Trail and a love that blossoms between her and the Trail scout.
December 26, 2020
Faced with an arranged marriage to someone she can not stand, Ami Kent runs off and joins a wagon train bound for Oregon. She meets scout Shiloh Talon and is not impressed at first but as she gets to know the man she begins to have feeling for him. Later when she is abducted by bounty hunters sent by her father. it's Shiloh who rescues her and by then she is sold on the man. Its a cute story and has a feel good ending that will leave you with awarm fuzzy feeling.
January 24, 2022
Could not put it down!!!! Excellent read!
I loved this book. The characterizations of the people on the wagon train was well thought out. The fear was felt. The challenges met. This was the first book I have read written by Angela Castillo. Will look for future books written by this author. Patricia
I loved this book. The characterizations of the people on the wagon train was well thought out. The fear was felt. The challenges met. This was the first book I have read written by Angela Castillo. Will look for future books written by this author. Patricia
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January 27, 2023I loved this story!
Faced with her widowed father forcing her to marry a horrible old man, under the influence of a vindictive step-mother, just four years older than she was, she just had to escape! Emigrating to Oregon, and facing the trail in oxwagons, travelling through dangerous territories was worth it, given the alternatives. A feel-good story.
Faced with her widowed father forcing her to marry a horrible old man, under the influence of a vindictive step-mother, just four years older than she was, she just had to escape! Emigrating to Oregon, and facing the trail in oxwagons, travelling through dangerous territories was worth it, given the alternatives. A feel-good story.
July 16, 2023
Couldn't put it down.
Wonderfully told story of leaving your home and traveling across the country in a wagon train. With all the usual dangers of the trail, Ami made friends and started to be responsible for herself in conditions totally unknown to her. Understood why she left and rooted for her throughout. A truly inspirational read.
Wonderfully told story of leaving your home and traveling across the country in a wagon train. With all the usual dangers of the trail, Ami made friends and started to be responsible for herself in conditions totally unknown to her. Understood why she left and rooted for her throughout. A truly inspirational read.
December 16, 2019
This is a sweet western romance! I really liked it... It is interesting and enjoyable to read, with a lovely setting and nice characters.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
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