Where the Lost Wander

by Amy Harmon

In this epic and haunting love story set on the Oregon Trail, a family and their unlikely protector find their way through peril, uncertainty, and loss.

The Overland Trail, 1853: Naomi May never expected to be widowed at twenty. Eager to leave her grief behind, she sets off with her family for a life out West. On the trail, she forms an instant connection with John Lowry, a half-Pawnee man straddling two worlds and a stranger in both.

But life in a wagon train is fraught with hardship, fear, and death. Even as John and Naomi are drawn to each other, the trials of the journey and their disparate pasts work to keep them apart. John’s heritage gains them safe passage through hostile territory only to come between them as they seek to build a life together.

When a horrific tragedy strikes, decimating Naomi’s family and separating her from John, the promises they made are all they have left. Ripped apart, they can’t turn back, they can’t go on, and they can’t let go. Both will have to make terrible sacrifices to find each other, save each other, and eventually… make peace with who they are.

Genres: Historical Fiction, Romance, Fiction, Historical, Book Club, Historical Romance, Westerns

348 pages, Paperback

First published April 28, 2020

About the author

Amy Harmon is a Wall Street Journal, USA Today, and New York Times Bestselling author. Amy knew at an early age that writing was something she wanted to do, and she divided her time between writing songs and stories as she grew. Having grown up in the middle of wheat fields without a television, with only her books and her siblings to entertain her, she developed a strong sense of what made a good story. Her books are now being published in two dozen languages, truly a dream come true for a little country girl.

Amy Harmon has written eighteen novels including the USA Today Bestsellers, Making Faces and Running Barefoot, as well as The Law of Moses, Infinity + One and the New York Times Bestseller, A Different Blue. Her fantasy novel, The Bird and the Sword, was a Goodreads Book of the Year finalist. Her newest release, What the Wind Knows, is an Amazon charts and Wall Street Journal bestseller. For updates on upcoming book releases, author posts and more, join Amy at www.authoramyharmon.com.

Reviews

[Nilufer Ozmekik · Rating 5 out of 5]

Yes, she did it again! Dear Amy Harmon turned me into an emotional trainwreck! I always tell myself before starting any of her books: “Nope! I’m not gonna cry! I’m gonna concentrate on funny things like my besties’ effort to squeeze her big butt into two size smaller jeans or my husband’s face expression when I serve him dinner.”

But, I failed again! I dropped ugly, nasty, tormenting, vicious, dirty tears! I cannot stop myself! This book has epic, heart wrenching, memorable, beautiful, genuine, poignant story with its memorable, so easily likeable characters. You want to give them hug and meet with them in real life to befriend them.

The pacing, the stunning, thought-provoking, violent, dark, realistic historical facts which crush our souls show the ugly face and shameful parts of humanity that we need to learn lessons and pass them to our next generations. She didn’t sugarcoat anything and tell directly, objectively those parts which break our hearts and ache more for beautiful souls of those amazing characters.
Naomi is tough, determined, warrior soul to do whatever it takes to protect her family and build a life for them as John straddles between two worlds and cannot cope any of them. They fought, they hurt, they burned, they suffered, they cried, they struggled but they never gave up on each other.

Bring out your napkins and set your ugly tears free, take your ticket for this fast pacing, mesmerizing, spell-binding, gripping, emotional, memorable journey.

Normally I’m not a big fan of historical fictions but Kristin Hannah and Amy Harmon changed my idea made me lose myself into their books. This one is a BIG WINNER and get ready to go blind and feel the fantastic spirit of the story.

Special thanks to NetGalley and Lake Union Publishing for sharing this incredible books’ ARC COPY in exchange my honest review. And so much thanks to Amy Harmon who creates a heartbreaking symphonies with words for writing this wonderful book.

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[jessica · Rating 5 out of 5]

thank goodness for this book - for showing that historical fiction can be so much more than a WWII story.

whenever i think about the oregon trail, i will now remember of the hardships faced, the perseverance needed, the hope never lost, the heritage created, and the love that was found by the characters of this story.

this is a story of believing in a better life and searching for it, no matter the trials. this is a story about finding oneself when many other lives have been lost. but most noticeably, this is about finding a home within the heart of another person.

i am so in love this story.

a heartfelt thanks to lake union publishing for the ARC! <3

↠ 5 stars

[MarilynW · Rating 5 out of 5]

The time is 1853 and the prologue of Where the Lost Wander throws us into a horrible massacre. It hurts to read it, even if we don't know these people, yet. And then we go back months in time and get to know the May family, a mother, father, fours sons and Naomi, the twenty year old daughter. Naomi is already a widow, her childhood sweetheart, Daniel, dying three months after their marriage. Daniel was supposed to be on this trip over the Oregon Trail but he's been dead for over a year and Naomi hasn't even been able to really face that heartbreak, completely. 

It's in St Joseph, Missouri, where the May family purchases mules for their cross country trip, that Naomi first lays eyes on John Lowry. John is half white, half Pawnee, not feeling as if he belongs in either world, not sure if he's really wanted even though his white father's white wife treats him as her own child. John's mother died when he was eight but before she died, she brought John to his father to raise and his step mother, Jennie, has raised him into a fine, educated, gentleman. But John knows he doesn't fit in either world, white or Indian and he keeps an emotional distance from everyone. Still, he is attracted to Naomi and decides to continue on with the wagon train after he escorts it part of the way, after dropping off an order of mules. 

Every step of the trip is dangerous. Cholera, storms, dehydration, broken wagons, lack of food for humans and animals, attacks by Indians, the sometimes impassable trail, raging rivers, are just some of the perils along the way. Death is a given, so many in their party fall by the wayside or turn back. Decisions have to be made that are hard and often wrong. Naomi knows her heart and loves John but John can't even allow himself to think of a life with Naomi, when he knows having him in her life will always make things harder for Naomi because he is only part white. John also has a longing in his heart for his mother's people even though they don't want him because of his white half. 

As hard as the trip has been, there is the even bigger disaster of the massacre and Naomi and her baby brother have been taken by avenging Indians. John hopes to find her and both John and Naomi have to make impossible choices. John has made a promise to protect the May family and he will die trying to do so. It's amazing how well the author brings the characters to life, in this story, not just the May family but the Indians, who are dealing with their impossible struggles, too. My heart was torn the entire time I was reading this story, because this is our history and it's not pretty. I think all the people need to be remembered and this story puts a face to some of the people of this time in our history. 

Pub April 28, 2020

Thank you to Lake Union Publishing and NetGalley for this ARC.

[Amy Harmon]

Where the Lost Wander, an epic and haunting love story set on the Oregon Trail is now available on Amazon in e-book, paperback, and audio.

READ NOW: KINDLE | PAPERBACK | AUDIO

He says he doesn’t want to dance,
but that’s what we do.
It’s just a different kind of dance.
His mouth is pressed to mine,
seeking and sinking.
We move together and apart,
all things working toward the same end.
Or the same beginning.
We are a circle of two.

I’m good with the animals,
I keep to myself, and I work hard.
And if I look a little different,
no one has ever made a big issue of it.

I watch Naomi,
she watches me,
and a wagon train of tired people,
gaunt-faced and blurry-eyes,
watch us.

Five hundred miles from where we began,
the formations begin to rise up out of the earth,
gnarled and notched,
like ancient parapets washed in a layer
of sand and time,
abandoned castles that have become
part of the landscape.

READ NOW: KINDLE | PAPERBACK | AUDIO

Copyright © Amy Harmon
WEBSITE | FACEBOOK | TWITTER | INSTAGRAM | AMAZON | BOOKBUB | NEWSLETTER

[Debra - can't post any comments on site today grrr · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 stars

"The pain. It's worth it. The more you love, the more it hurts. But it's worth it. It's the only thing that is."

Wandering what to read next (See what I did there?) Look no further. Where the Lost Wander is a wonderful work of historical fiction that was inspired by real life people - John Lowry was the Author's husband five times great grandfather. I really enjoy when Authors can draw on their own personal real-life histories/stories to create fiction. This was done very nicely. I highly recommend reading the Author's note at the end.

Naomi May, a widow at twenty, is on the Oregon Trail with her family, her deceased husband's family and others while trying to make it to California where they hope to have a better life. John Lowry. half-Pawnee is their guide. Naomi and John are drawn to each other as they all try to survive the harshness of the trail.

John draws on his Pawnee heritage to help them along the trail, but will it be enough when tragedy strikes?

This book had several things going for it - there is romance, there is a tale of survival, there is the element of people being strong and showing courage, there are those who face their fears to rise above and confront what they thought they never could, there are those baring their soles and sharing what it feels like to walk with one foot in two very different cultures, there is camaraderie and a sense of belonging, there is hope, there are tears, there is fear and there is happiness. The Author also paints a very vivid description of the trail and what those who were on the trail endured during that time.

This was well written and researched. I felt as if I were on the trail with them as they desperately tried to reach California. Fans of historical fiction will enjoy this one as will fans of the wild west.

Thank you to Lake Union Publishing and NetGalley who provided me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All the thoughts and opinions are my own.

**Traveling Sister group read

[Arini · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was so beautiful it hurt.

“The pain. It’s worth it. The more you love, the more it hurts. But it’s worth it. It’s the only thing that is.”

I was fairly sure I would give it a three stars upon finishing it, and I had good enough reasons for that, namely:

↠ The journey these characters went through was tragic and arduous.
↠ The romance was underdeveloped.
↠ The plot was slow moving because it took 70% of the book to get to the climax.

HOWEVER, after sleeping on it for days, the more I thought about it the more I appreciated the beauty of it all.

“But . . . endurance . . . is a whole different kind of battle. It’s a hell of a lot harder. Don’t ever say you didn’t fight, because that’s never been true. Not one day of your whole life. You fought, Naomi. You’re still fighting.”

I didn’t even know about the Oregon Trail until this book. Yes, travelling across the country on a wagon train with hundreds of other people for months was grueling. But that was part of why this story was fascinating. The author managed to present a believable depiction of what life might be like during one of the most significant historical moments in the US. The hardships, the hunger, the plague, the loss—it was all so raw, harrowing, and admirable at the same time.

The romance was rushed, but it didn’t make the love story less delicate and emotional. John and Naomi were perfect for each other. Their scenes were sweet and romantic. Naomi’s family, especially the brothers, gave the book a warm and joyful feeling beneath all the bleakness of the situation. What befell them in this book was heartbreaking, but watching John and Naomi lost and found each other again and stick together through thick and thin was nothing short of awe inspiring.

“Put your energy into rising above the things you can’t change, Naomi. Keep your mind right. And everything will work out for the best.”

The book opened with a prologue that immediately hooked me in and gave me a sense of doom looming above my head. When the death blow was finally delivered, I was devastated and thrilled all at once. The last 30% was a rare kind of excitement that I lived for. At first, I wasn’t so keen on the writing because it felt like a lot more tells than shows despite the fact that it was done beautifully. But this ‘in media res’ storytelling technique was so compelling I couldn’t look away.

The author’s portrayal of the Native Americans and white emigrants felt authentic. Obviously, I couldn’t speak for the accuracy of the authenticity, but I could tell it was well researched. The author even went on about it in her author’s note. Despite the book being a work of fiction, I felt like I learned so much through this experience. Not to mention, I was used to reading about the World War when it came to historical fictions that this book was such a breath of fresh air.

“The hardest thing about life is knowing what matters and what doesn’t,” Winifred muses. “If nothing matters, then there’s no point. If everything matters, there’s no purpose. The trick is to find firm ground between the two ways of being.”

This is the kind of story that you will love slowly but completely. It brings you back through time and generations. It sneaks up on you and takes residence in your heart. It opens your eyes to a part of history you might not have been aware before and makes you feel grateful of the life you have today. It’s profound and simply breathtaking. I would definitely recommend to those of you who fancy a historical fiction that is filled with adventure, love, heartache, and hope.

[Brenda ~The Sisters~Book Witch · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amy Harmon has joined us in the Behind the Pages group and has answered questions about her books, and writing process! She gave us some great insight into the story and characters and I love this one even more

To view the threads and see what Amy Harmon has to say, you can find it here

https://www.goodreads.com/topic/show/...

My review

Giddy up! Make room on your TBR list for this daisy of a read!! I loved everything about this one!!

Where the Lost Wander is a fast-paced adventure packed gorgeously written and insightful story with heart. Amy Harmon knows how to kick up a dust storm of emotions. The unforgettable characters are the most likable characters I have read in a story. The story is set on the Oregon Trail in 1853, where we are taken on a vividly written journey with this wagon train set for a better life.

I was on pins and needles all through this one, fearing the danger and hardship of the trail and path taken for these characters. Amy Harmon doesn't sugarcoated things here however, through her powerful insight and wisdom to family, love and hardship she brings a quieter and hopeful tone to the story. The characters are the definition of courage, scared, but still, saddle up anyway. I feared for them and rooted for them.

There is some romance here to warm up the story and I loved the bond between John & Naomi and it melted this non-romantic heart. The strength in this story for me is in the bond, and trust the character had with each other. They face uncertainty, hardship, tragedy, and find the strength within each other for survival. I highly recommend.

I received a copy from the publisher on NetGalley.

[♥︎ Heather ⚔ (New House-Hiatus) · Rating 5 out of 5]

˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗ 4.5 𝓢𝓽𝓪𝓻𝓼 ˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗


"Are you angry with the bird because he can fly, or angry with the horse for her beauty, or with the bear because he has fearsome teeth and claws? Because he's bigger than you are? Stronger too?

Destroying all the things you hate won't change that. You still won't be a bear or a bird or a horse. Hating men won't make you a man. Hating your womb or your breasts or your own weakness won't make those things go away. Hating never fixed anything.
It seems simple, but most things are. We just complicate them. We spend our lives complicating what we would do better to accept. Because in acceptance, we put our energies into transcendence.”


Such an epic and hauntingly beautiful story, told in a fresh and elegant prose with memorable characters. I was transported in time back to the 1800's, to the Oregon Trail. The courage and perseverance the pioneers exhibited in their quest for a different life is admirable and incredible. Harmon captures it well in this story, and though there is heartbreak and tragedy, there is also hope and light.

Naomi and John’s story, from initial attraction to trust and longing and finally, to love and commitment, is moving and well-told. Given the era and the setting, we know this cannot be a happy, pain-free story, but I couldn’t stop hoping for good outcomes and peace for these characters, even in the most dire of situations.

Overall, this is a well-researched, vivid depiction of a time in America’s history that’s in many ways well-known, but here, presented with so much more nuance and perspective than in typical tales of the Old West. Highly recommended.

ೃ⁀➷ 𝓠𝓾𝓸𝓽𝓮𝓼 ✴⋆｡°✩

“If nothing matters, then there’s no point. If everything matters, there’s no purpose. The trick is to find firm ground between the two ways of being.”


“That’s what hope feels like: the best air you’ve ever breathed after the worst fall you’ve ever taken. It hurts.”


“The pain. It's worth it. The more you love, the more it hurts. It's the only thing that is.”


"I’m convinced everyone is a little vile, if they are honest about it. Vile and scared and human."


“𝑰 𝒉𝒐𝒑𝒆 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒓𝒆𝒂𝒅𝒆𝒓 𝒘𝒊𝒍𝒍 𝒆𝒙𝒑𝒆𝒓𝒊𝒆𝒏𝒄𝒆 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒔𝒕𝒐𝒓𝒚 𝒊𝒏 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒔𝒑𝒊𝒓𝒊𝒕 𝒊𝒕 𝒘𝒂𝒔 𝒘𝒓𝒊𝒕𝒕𝒆𝒏, 𝒓𝒆𝒄𝒐𝒈𝒏𝒊𝒛𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒕𝒉𝒂𝒕 𝒘𝒉𝒐 𝒘𝒆 𝒂𝒓𝒆 𝒊𝒔 𝒏𝒐𝒕 𝒘𝒉𝒐 𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒚 𝒘𝒆𝒓𝒆, 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒋𝒖𝒅𝒈𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒉𝒊𝒔𝒕𝒐𝒓𝒊𝒄𝒂𝒍 𝒑𝒆𝒐𝒑𝒍𝒆 𝒃𝒚 𝒕𝒐𝒅𝒂𝒚'𝒔 𝒔𝒕𝒂𝒏𝒅𝒂𝒓𝒅𝒔 𝒑𝒓𝒆𝒗𝒆𝒏𝒕𝒔 𝒖𝒔 𝒇𝒓𝒐𝒎 𝒍𝒆𝒂𝒓𝒏𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒇𝒓𝒐𝒎 𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒎, 𝒇𝒓𝒐𝒎 𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒊𝒓 𝒎𝒊𝒔𝒕𝒂𝒌𝒆𝒔 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒊𝒓 𝒕𝒓𝒊𝒖𝒎𝒑𝒉𝒔. 𝑻𝒉𝒆𝒔𝒆 𝒑𝒆𝒐𝒑𝒍𝒆 𝒉𝒆𝒍𝒑𝒆𝒅 𝒃𝒖𝒊𝒍𝒅 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒇𝒓𝒂𝒎𝒆𝒘𝒐𝒓𝒌 𝒕𝒉𝒂𝒕 𝒘𝒆 𝒏𝒐𝒘 𝒔𝒕𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒐𝒏. 𝑾𝒆 𝒔𝒉𝒐𝒖𝒍𝒅 𝒃𝒆 𝒄𝒂𝒓𝒆𝒇𝒖𝒍 𝒂𝒃𝒐𝒖𝒕 𝒃𝒖𝒓𝒏𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒊𝒕 𝒅𝒐𝒘𝒏.”-

[Lindsay L · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 stars! An unforgettable journey following a group of emigrants on the Oregon Trail.

1853: John Lowry, a half-white half-Pawnee man, leads a group of families across the rough terrain of the Oregon Trail. The families each have their own horses and wagon packed with all that they own heading to start a better life out West. The families depend on Lowry’s experience and expertise to get them through the unimaginably difficult landscape and hostile areas. Their trek is gruelling and strenuous, unbearable at times. Their lives rest in the hands of Lowry to keep them safe and guided in the right direction.

Such a wonderful novel! I loved learning about this time in our history. The exquisite writing engrossed me, pulling me deep into this part of history, making me feel an immediate connection to and investment in the characters and storyline. I knew nothing about this piece of history which is why I love reading historical fiction. The novel was extremely insightful, informative and enlightening, all while immersing the reader within an unforgettable tale. Endearing characters, atmospheric landscapes, thought provoking scenarios, heart breaking losses - this book has it all. My one tiny critique is that the last 20% felt a bit too drawn out for me.

I enjoyed the animal aspect of this story and learned a lot about how mules and horses were so highly depended upon during these times. Crossing rivers (often the same river multiple times throughout the trek), surviving a variety of brutal weather, always having to remain “on guard”, pushing through the constant fear of the unknown that lies ahead — I felt all of these stresses right alongside the characters and animals. Please be warned, there are some awful scenes involving animals.

The Authors Note at the end is powerful. To learn that much of this story is based on the authors family history makes it more impactful to me as a reader. Overall, I truly enjoyed this remarkable novel! It isn’t gripping or addictive, but a slow burn, beautifully written tale that needs to be savoured and not rushed.

Thank you to NetGalley for my review copy!

Expected date of publication: April 28, 2020.

[Diane S ☔ · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 Be still my heart! I adored this story about love and hardship on the Oregon trail. It's 1853 and wagons full of hardy, in some cases desperate, people and family headed West. The Mays were one such family, their daughter Naomi had been widowed and traveled with them. John Lowry was a half Pauite, whose mother as she was dying brought him to his white father to raise. The mules they train are renowned and fetch a hefty price. He originally is only planning to go so far and then turn back. His plans though will change when love comes aknockin.

I enjoy reading about these men and women who risk everything for a new start. Such a rough and hazardous journey, yet so many went. I would probably have been one who says, just let me be, it's all good. So many deaths, from illness and starvation, Indian attacks and exhaustion. This book has it all, pain, love, Indian captives, and plucky characters a reader can't help but embrace. Naomi and John, such wonderful characters, couldn't help but root for them. Hope things would turn out well.

In the authors note, Harmon tells us who and what this story was based on. So many people in this story were actual historic figures and yes, I admit it made the book even more special. I took to heart not just for this book but others I will read, this advice,

"I hope the reader will experience the story in the spirit it was written, recognizing that who we are is not who they were, and judging historical people by today's standards prevents us from learning from them, from their mistakes and their triumphs."

I did and I will. Terrific story, wise authors note.

ARC from Netgalley.

[Canadian Jen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Holy crap this was one Wild West journey with both beauty and violence across the rugged terrain from Missouri to California.

A journey across in the mid 1850’s is challenging, rugged and scary. But it’s the price to pay to start a new life in a place far from home.
A romance begins to bloom between a young widower, Naomi, and a half Indian, John Lowry. But violence also follows between tribes of both Indians and whites.
Amazing character depiction, Indian culture and the transcendence of the land and the people.
5⭐️and a must read for historical fiction fans.

[Regina · Rating 3 out of 5]

You know what else wandered? My mind.

Sorry, that line is just too easy (and my opinion might be an unpopular one), but it’s true. Where the Lost Wander had my thoughts trailing off as I followed two lovers on their bumpy journey along the Oregon Trail. (Oops, I did it again.)

Maybe the bar was set a little too high from the get-go. A Goodreads average rating of 4.4 stars is almost always the sign of a sure thing. I also chose to pluck this title from my To Read backlist on the heels of reading The Four Winds. Kristin Hannah’s stellar novel about the Dust Bowl era made me want to seek out more books about other great migrations across America.

This particular story opens with a violent prologue, providing a glimpse of the tragedies and hardships a westbound wagon train will encounter along its way. We then flashback to the origins of the trip, focusing on 20-year-old white Naomi and her insta love relationship with half-Pawnee man John Lowry. I tried really hard to connect with them as quickly as they connected with each other, but I just never did.

There’s also more slaughter - human and animal - than my threshold. And rape. So trigger warnings there, my friends.

I did enjoy Amy Harmon’s Authors Note at the end, where she details some of the real life characters and events that inspired her to tackle this subject. I would like to read more from her, as I do think perhaps I was just not the right reader for this particular book.

Where the Lost Wander is currently available on Kindle Unlimited with WhisperSync for those who might prefer the audio format (though I wouldn’t recommend it in this case).

Better wrap this up now before I lose my train* of thought again.

*I honestly can't help myself. It's genetic.

[❥ KAT ❥ Kitty Kats Crazy About Books · Rating 5 out of 5]

MY REVIEW AND OTHERS: can also be found on my blog:
➽ KITTY KATS CRAZY ABOUT BOOKS

'WHERE THE LOST WANDER:' Is a full length historical romance novel by Amy Harmon. Spoken in 'dual perspectives.' This is Naomi & John's story.

Naomi May is a young widow travelling on a wagon train with her family heading out west. And John Lowry is the man leading this wagon train, a mule breeder, he's half white, and half indian with a name of 'Two Feet' meaning he has one foot in the white man's world and one foot in the Indian's world. But never feeling as though he fitted in either side of the fence.



John is a doer, a deep thinker, a man of few words, an observer.
Naomi, is an artist, a nurturer, a dreamer. Together they are perfection..

God where to start, this was just utterly amazing! I simply adored this story..Real, raw, riveting..

First off I loved the simplicity of this story being that there was Ωno added embellishment to make this believable, with this authors penmanship and her voice, I felt like I was there travelling this unforgiving territory traipsing through rough terrain seeking a place to call home, and that’s where the magic began as I sat here imagining all the people who had gone through unbelievable life changing circumstances like what were depicted in this story.

The losses, the hardships, all made for a riveting pull on your heart strings kind of read.

I was transported to another time, thrown headfirst into a prologue that forewarned me of what was to come. And as I raced through the pages experiencing their triumphs and heartache as though it were my own. I knew at some stage I'd be hitting an emotional game changer.



This was such a profound heartbreaking beautiful journey that was beautiful and ugly rolled up into one big ball of adventure.

[Dem · Rating 4 out of 5]

Some books are just worth waiting for...... I saved this one for a a few days break away and it was the perfect road trip companion, an engaging and moving story of the harrowing journey our west in 1850s America, the hardships and struggles that befell the folks who took the Oregon Trail in order to find better lives for their families is extremely well depicted and beautifully written.

I love the cover of this novel with the wagon trail heading off into the great unknown and its through books like this we get a glimpse into the past and a feel for what life was like for the pioneers and their families. Where the Lost Wander is primarily a love story set on the Oregon Trail but it has a bite to it in terms of historical facts and information and it is inspired by the author’s ancestors and their stories.
I loved the characters of John and Naomi and was rooting for them as they made their journey out west.
I am not a fan of Historical romance Fiction and yet this worked for me as I love stories from the Wagon Train and this was a quick and entertaining listen and felt like the author had really done her research and the images of the landscape and settings were vivid and real which really added to my enjoyment of the story.

I listened to this one on audio while I would have preferred a hard copy the narration is well done.

An entertaining and enjoyable read that I think many readers who enjoy Historical Fiction/romance/pioneer stories will finding entertaining and enjoyable.

[Karen · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 stars

1853 ..The Oregon Trail
Life in a wagon train is fraught with hardship, fear, and death.
Naomi May is 20 yrs old, a recent widow after just three months of marriage, and is traveling with her parents and several brothers for a life out West.
John Lowry is a half Pawnee man who is on the trail to help guide the families West.
There is a beautiful love story here but what had me immersed in the story was the actual life on the trail, the family connections, and the encounters with the Indians and their customs.
Loved it!

Thank you to Netgalley and Lake Union Publishing for the ARC!

[Tina · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 *

Amy Harmon is quickly becoming a favourite author of mine. Her stories are so well researched and beautifully written!

This is an emotional and heart wrenching story about a family in Missouri who travel on the Oregon Trail in 1853 in search of a better life in the West. They travel with many other families and some guides. Along the way there is happiness, love, tragedy and resilience.

I enjoyed reading the author's notes at the end of the book and learning that some of these characters were real-life people from history and even part of the author's family. A very interesting account of what must have been a difficult time in history.

I'd like to thank NetGalley and Lake Union Publishing (which never seems to disappoint me with their books) for granting me access to this Advanced Reader Copy.

[Penny Reid · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amy Harmon is my favorite author because she never, never, never lets me down. It is obvious that she puts pieces of her heart and soul into every title and the world is a better place for her effort and artistry.

I've been putting off reading this book until I felt like I really, really needed an exceptional read. The last few months have been difficult, the last week even more so. Therefore, I knew it was time to crack open my epic-read rations. I so enjoyed getting lost and wandering around in this fantastic tale of struggle, sacrifice, love, and perseverance. If you loved 'Lonesome Dove' (which is one of my top 5 favorite books of all time) then you'll love 'Where the Lost Wander.'
As usual with Amy Harmon books:
1. The characters are flawed and feel real.
2. You'll feel swept away and inspired.
3. You won't be able to put it down.

Thank you, Amy, for making my days better. You make a difference in the world.

[Beata · Rating 4 out of 5]

A novel which I found interesting mainly due to detailed descriptions of the Oregon Trail of which I am eager to learn more. The plot revolves around the brave people who decided to travel two thousand miles to seek better opportunities in new lands in the mid 19th century. While reading I was constantly googling pictures of the landmarks which the emigrants passed and I admit that this added to the intensity of the narration, which I appreciated a lot. The descriptions of daily challenges in the form of physical exhaustion, diseases and encounters with The Native Americans provide the readers with the idea what it was like to be one of those who left for a better life.
*Many thanks to Amy Harmon, Lake Union Publishing and NetGalley for arc in exchange for my honest review.*

[Lori Elliott · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Hating never fixed anything. It seems simple, but most things are. We just complicate them. We spend our lives complicating what we would do better to accept. Because in acceptance, we put our energies into transcendence.”

This novel has been sitting on my TBR list for a while. Sometimes I feel like a book ‘finds’ you when you need it’s message most. That is how this novel has found me. Naomi, John and their story I will carry with me for some time to come. This novel has moved me in a way that few have. This deserves every one of the amazing reviews... Highly, highly recommend.

“Transcendence is when we rise above the things we can’t change”...

*Author notes: ‘I hope the reader will experience the story in the spirit it was written, recognizing that who we are is not who they were, and judging historical people by today’s standards prevents us from learning from them, from their mistakes and their triumphs. These people helped build the framework that we now stand on. We should be careful about burning it down.’ Amy Harmon

[Corina · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’m only 37% into the book and already can tell it’s going to be a high starred read for me, maybe even my first 5 star book of the year.

Old school western romance, but absolutely beautifully written. Stunning prose, and a plot that leaves me amazed!

More to come...

Update and full review:

___________________________________


I’ve read MANY historical western romance over the years, and the plot for Where the Lost Wander isn’t unique, it’s actually a fairly typical plot about a hero that is both, white and Native Indian, and a wagon train going west. But what makes this book so fantastic is that the author took the basics of a classic historical western romance and turned it into a beautiful work of art.

The book was just STUNNING!!! Beautiful, raw, thoughtful, and touching.

THE COMBINATION OF ALL OF THE ABOVE MADE FOR A COMPELLING, AND UNFORGETTABLE TALE.

And I think what makes it stand out even more is the eye for historical detail, the feeling that these people were drawn from something more. It’s a love story, more than a romance and it comes deep from the heart. Naomi and John’s love for each other was palpable, and transcendent.

Where the Lost Wander isn’t a steamy book. There is actually barely any sex at all in this book. Instead the romance goes much deeper, and the story follows this epic but also at times tragic journey across America, on a wagon train where many will never reach their destination. 1850’s wasn’t a kind period for settlers. Battles between the natives and the settlers, sickness and disease ravaged the country. This book is real, raw and feels entirely authentic.

I fell in love with both, Naomi and John. Both were steadfast, and grounded people. Knowing what they wanted, but also aware of repercussions, and expectations. Naomi had in someway an easier time because she was widowed and had the freedom to chose John without having to worry about what people thought. John, was more circumspect. He knew what it meant to live as neither, fully white, nor fully native. He walked as both but also lived in neither. And he didn’t want Naomi to feel the same. So he had thoughts. I liked that he was a thinker, quiet, peaceful, and hardworking. Naomi was the dreamer, artist, carer. They matched so well, and completed the other in a most touching way.

This book was everything a historical western romance should be. Incredibly well researched, characters that were likable and genuine, and a plot that had heart and soul.




Warning: If you have never read a historical western romance before, please be aware that the relationship between whites and Native Indian’s was volatile and rape of woman was unfortunately something that occurred.


___________________________________

I received a copy of this book from the publisher for free in exchange for an honest review. My opinions have not been influenced by the publisher or the author.

[Karren Sandercock · Rating 5 out of 5]

In 1853, twenty year old widow Naomi May Caldwell joins her family when they decide to travel West on The Overland Trail and begin the long trip go to Oregon. Her parents are William and Winifred May, her older brother Warren and his wife Abigail and her brothers Wyatt, Webb, and Will are all traveling together.

Grant Abbott is the wagon master, he's in charge of guiding the 40 families along the trail, it will take five months and it's a 2000 mile journey. It's not going to be easy, most of the women and children will need to walk to ease the burden on the oxen, they will constantly have to deal with dirt, dust, snakes, insects and diseases. They will need to ford rivers and cross mountains and barren deserts, worry about Indians attacking the wagon train and stealing their livestock.

Naomi was only married to her husband Daniel Caldwell for three months when he passed away, yes she mourned her husbands death, she cried, she was consumed by grief, traveling West is a way of her starting again and leaving the sad memories behind her. She's pretty, smart, has spunk, loves her family and she's a very talented artist. She has a very close relationship with her family, especially her mother, even though her in laws are traveling west on the same wagon train she has decided to travel with her family and help her pregnant mother.

Following the tracks of the previous wagons, heavily pregnant Winifred May notices the first of many graves on the side of the road on the fifth day of traveling, she continues walking and she knows it's going to be a long and very dangerous trip.

Traveling part of the way with them is the handsome John Lowry, he's delivering mules to an army fort, Naomi notices John is different, he sets off riding his horse, leading his two donkeys and twelve mules and he shows very little emotion when he leaves his father John and step mother Jennie behind? John is actually part Indian his mother was Pawnee and he's always struggled with finding his place in the world and he's a loner. His strong features, tanned skin and dark hair are things about himself that he can't change, Naomi likes him, finds him very attractive and has no issues with him being part Indian.
It becomes very obvious that Naomi and John are very interested in each other?
John is very cautious as he knows being part Indian and being seen with a white lady can only cause grief and trouble for him.

Unfortunately the group of pioneers do experience tragedy, heart breaking loss and danger as they travel West. But they also experience joy, the birth of new baby and the sweetness of new love. Amy Harmon has a way with words, while reading the book it's very easy to be swept away by the story and you feel like you are traveling every step with the wagon train. You can almost hear the sounds of the animals plodding along, harnesses creaking, wheels screeching, the foot steps of the women and children as they walk, how weary they feel and how they long for a decent meal.

I absolutely loved Where The Lost Wander, I enjoy reading historical fiction about pioneering families traveling to Oregon, this is one of the best books I have read, I highly recommend it and I gave it five stars. I will share my review on Goodreads, NetGalley, Twitter, Kobo and my blog.
https://karrenreadsbooks.blogspot.com/

[Hulya Kara Yuksel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow I'm speechless! This was an amazing journey... ❤



This was my 11th book of Ms.Harmon and she always takes me to another places. Her stories always warms my heart and I always feel that amazing connection between the main characters. <3


So long story short, Amy Harmon is one of my favorite authors and I highly recommend this book to you. ❤

Expected publication: April 28th 2020
***ARC provided by NetGalley.


“I don’t know what you’re trying to tell me,” Naomi whispers after a time, and I brush my lips across hers once more before I make myself stop.
“I missed you.” Her eyes search mine.
“I didn’t go anywhere.”
“You haven’t even looked at me for the last ninety miles.” ❤

[Ashley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Reviewed on: Ashes Books & Bobs.

Amy Harmon does it again and I can’t even say I’m surprised. She’s a dynamic writer, with each book being better than the last. Where the Lost Wander may be my new favorite of hers. I’m certain this book will be at the top of my list of favorites for 2020. The word that comes to mind as I reflect on this book is: rich. The writing, the storytelling, the characters, the pacing, literally every facet of the book is exquisitely done.

One of my favorite things about historical fiction is being sucked back in time as if I’m actually there myself. Unfortunately, many books within this genre do not possess the ability to transport me back. Sometimes the history gets too heavy, making the plot drag. Though I love pioneering stories, I thought this tale might have a tendency to drag as slowly as the oxen pulling the wagons. Boy, was I wrong in my assumption! Where the Lost Wander had no lulls — I was sucked in as I read the very first page and was torn between eagerly reading and slowly savoring this book. It was one I didn’t want to end and I knew I would have the most epic of book hangovers after finishing.

As always, after finishing Amy’s books I’m at a loss for words. I want to do the book the justice it deserves, but my language is inadequate. There are numerous life lessons, beautiful sentiments, and emotional moments within this story. It pulled deep feelings from me and had me in tears by the end of the book. Sometimes blogging and reading can feel like a chore, with the special books coming fewer and farther between, but this was exactly the type of novel to reignite my love of reading.

I especially loved that the story didn’t sugarcoat the brutality of this time in history and the hardship of being a pioneering family. Amy’s author’s note in the end made me further realize how often we try to reshape history to make us feel more comfortable in our modern lives. Whether we agree with the past, it’s not our duty to rewrite the story. We should accept it as is, and if anything, it should make us better today.

I eagerly recommend all of Amy’s books to anyone and everyone, but this one is at the top of the stack. You won’t want to miss this evocative journey! It’s arguably Amy’s best work to date.


Reread: Aug. 9, 2020 💙

[Kat · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh man, this book was so addictive I gobbled it up in just a few sittings. Naomi and her family are headed west on the Oregon Trail. John Lowry is taking his father’s mules 200 miles (a tenth of the journey) along with his uncle, who serves as the trail guide. His half-Pawnee ancestry makes him a target for attacks along the trail and no one likes it when sparks fly between him and Naomi.

Vivid descriptions and one harrowing near-escape after the next as the wagon train faces flood, disease, storms, attacks and more trying to reach California. This slow-burn romance between Naomi and John heats up along the way and is delicious to read, and the very real struggles of the families are well written and kept me turning pages. I have read quite a few of Amy Harmon’s books at this point, but I have to say I think her historical romances are becoming my favorites.

Trigger Warnings: death of infant, rape

[AℳY♔Queen of Fat cats♔Ain't no lie Baby Byebyebye]

♥ UPDATE ♥ 4/28/2020 3:12 fangirling mode activated!!!


GUYS!!! This. Is. NOT. A. Drilling!!!
I repeat
This. Is. NOT. A. Drilling!!!
This. Is. NOT. A. Drilling!!!

It's LIVE, IT'S LIVE!!!






Live and already on top of the charts!!! So happy for Harmon-sensei!

Even better it's



For all of us in the KU elite!! We look all smug now!!


SMUG 'cuz it's FREE for us!!


BUDDY READ WITH THE WONDERFUL QT'S

The QT's are here, we're gonna buddy read this in the next few weeks ....we are so coordinated.

The QT's:

Elisa's 45% Update
Amy-chan - Queen of Fat Cats QT 14%
Michelle 8%
Michelle 28%
Michelle 38%
Michelle 68%
Finished RTC
APRIL updates
https://www.goodreads.com/user_status...
https://www.goodreads.com/user_status...
https://www.goodreads.com/user_status...

♥♥ ♥♥ ♥♥-

Elisa - Princess of the Evening Stars QT Full review
April chan - Queen of Galaxies QT
Laura Elizabeth - Periogi Princess QT
Parvati Patil - Beauxbatons Camaraderie QT
Michelle Nguyen - Mystic Princess QT
Amy-chan - Queen of Fat Cats QT Full review

Wanna be a QT? You don't need to be my friend just...
♥Read our rules♥
♥Sign in by saying AYE!!!♥

♥♥♥ ♥♥♥ ♥♥♥ ♥♥♥

♥UPDATE♥ 4/28/2020 It's 1:30 a.m and book isn't live yet. I stayed up waiting for the book to be live. This is so exciting!!! I can't wait
Our buddy read is taking shape!


♥♥♥°°♥♥♥ ♥♥♥°°♥♥♥ ♥♥♥°°♥♥♥
PREVIOUS POST


GUUUUUYYYYYSSSSSSS! April 28 2020 is around the corner for this sure-to-be-AMYzing historical romance. WOULD YOU BUDDY READ WITH ME?

I need Historical romance QT's to join our buddy read!!


Join the coolest and cutest (if I say so myself) non-official Buddy read group in Goodreads

The incomparable:

*drums playing dramatically*

Q-T's (pronounced cuties)




*covers ears due to deafening ovation*




We're going to be reading the new Historical romance by the most versatile author ever: MRS. AAAAMYYY HAAAAAARMON SEEEEEENSEEEEEEEEEEEEEIIII!!!!!

*covers ears due to deafening ovation*


Join our BR starting on April 28th. I'll link all your updates and reviews to my own and we can read a cool book and share our thoughts among us preventing spoilers, ARC reviews (ugh), difamatory reviews, paid reviews, fighting, trolls and covid 19. We'll fill out a review form and feel free to share our honest thoughts without worries, this is for us real readers who pay for our books.

INVITATION IS OPEN TO EVERYONE, EVEN IF YOU'RE NOT MY FRIEND.

You don't have to sign up to any group or do anything to be included All you have to do is say aye. Comments and likes during BR appreciated but not required but we'll require honesty and a fill out form.

So who wants to join the Q-T's and buddy read with us?

Vote in favor of joining our BR saying AYE!!!!


♥♥--♥♥--♥♥--♥♥--♥♥--♥♥--♥♥--♥♥--♥♥

EDIT Elisa, April and Laura Elizabeth joined the BR!!! They're such QT's!!! Anyone else??


♥♥♥Original pre-reading thoughts♥♥♥
GUUUUUUYYYYSSSSS!!! I haven't read it yet, but all books by Harmon sensei are AMYZING, like you could pick a paragraph at random and the writing would be AWESOMETACULAR


You can preorder!!!
APRIL 28TH 2020
I rarely read historical, but it's Harmon sensei so I can't wait.!!

You haven't read Harmon sensei yet?? What are you waiting for!!!

Join the KU elite!!! We're the elite group in goodreads, we read the best books for a small monthly fee, discover new authors all the time and we still have money to purchase more and more books.

[Sandra · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book. I don’t think I’ve read any other books about settlers and Native American Indians.
In Where the Lost Wander we join a band of settlers braving the Oregon Trail to find a better life in California....the year is 1852.
John Lowry, half Indian, is helping with the wagon train. At the start he is drawn to the May family... more precisely Naomi the eldest daughter.
The journey is harsh and full of fear and death, but there is also bravery and love. John’s Indian origins help them gain safe passage through some hostile territory.
When a horrific tragedy strikes, the wagon train is split apart. What follows is a gripping read.
The book is classed as historical romance.... but it really it is so much more!
An atmospheric and beautifully written book. I would definitely recommend and would love to read more books about this period and to learn more about this time in American history.

[Meagan (Meagansbookclub) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Breathtaking. Loved it!!!!!

Updated Review:
What can I say that hasn’t already been said about this incredible book? I’m kicking myself for taking this long picking up an Amy Harmon book and now I’ve stacked my TBR with all over her backlist titles for the next little while.

Where the Lost Wander is primarily about the May family traveling across the Overland Trail in 1853, but there is so much in this story that captured my heart.

The development and detail of every character was so rich, but the character that I loved the most was John Lowry. John was the guide for the May family, but we learn bits and pieces about John and his upbringing throughout the beginning of the story. We learn about the relationships between the Indian tribes and their people.

There is a lot of tragedy along this treacherous trail but the people crossing were so courageous and determined to make a better life for their families. I have always admired the strength of the early settlers. My own family has history of crossing the plains and settling in Canada and this gave me a bit of insight into the difficult road they chose and the many things and comforts they sacrificed in order to create a better life.

One of the pieces of this story that caught me off guard was how connected I would feel to the Indian tribes and their beautiful traditions. John Lowry was the bridge to connect both worlds and I found Harmon’s writing to be so beautiful and respectful as she approached these conflicts. History is difficult to understand at times, but there is always something to be learned and I learned so much.

Wow! This story is going to stick with me for awhile! All the stars!

[Laur · Rating 5 out of 5]

Historical Fiction at its best - time period 1850’s.
People wanted a better life and went west to find it. There was good and bad, ugly and beautiful, shameful and hopeful, and it’s all wrapped into one very rich heritage.

The author writes: "In order to accurately reflect the times, I had to use terms and words and talk about things that I am not comfortable with and you might not be comfortable with either. I hope the reader will experience the story in the spirit it was written, recognizing that who we are is not who they were, and judging historical people by today’s standards prevents us from learning from them, from their mistakes and their triumphs. These people helped build the framework that we now stand on.”

This was such a compelling heart wrenching journey - The author combines a combination of authentic people and events, brilliantly interwoven with a blend of masterful fiction to fill in the unknown blanks which produces a book that has a perfect and pleasing flow.

The author does a brilliant job of characterizations. Occasionally raw, at times humorous, sometimes brutally agonizing, but with an amazing spirit of hope, grace, love and sacrifice. An incredible story on so many levels, not soon to be forgotten. I wholeheartedly am pleased to recommend this book. Added to my Favorites List!

[Cathrine ☯️ · Rating 2 out of 5]

2.5 ★
IMO this one belongs on the YA/Romance shelf and reviewed there it's more star worthy. But I read it as a GR nominee for Best Historical Fiction for adults and I'm left 🤔. I shouldn't be. I'm rarely in agreement with those lists and not a good match for stories like this. However, I am a good pairing with Kathleen & Carmel 🥰 my reading buddies here, which left us with not much to talk about.
I can say that with all the complaining over pandemic limitations and hardships, it's difficult to see how we went from wagon train toughness and perseverance to our current whining about the lack of haircuts and pedicures, so maybe good reading material for these harsh times.

[Jennifer Kyle]

I’ve tried...

Dnf - 50 percent

I adore this author both personally and professionally. I went back into it several times and it’s just not holding my attention.