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The O'Rourke Family Montana Saga #1
Pioneer Desire
A brilliant cook new to town. An honorable, restless man. Will they allow friendship to blossom into something more?
Ardan O’Rourke never thought to marry. Not after the heartbreak he suffered as a young man. Not after the years he helped raise his youngest siblings. He never expected to meet Deirdre Finnegan, a spirited woman with a past full of secrets.
Deirdre Finnegan is not who she appears to be. A fine cook and a loner, she yearns for so much more. When Ardan and the O’Rourkes befriend her, she cannot deny her desire to be part of the large, wonderful family. Just when she begins to believe in a new future, her past returns to remind her of all she has lost. And all she must face if she wants to live a life free of doubt and anguish.
Faced with losing Deirdre, Ardan discovers the one foe he cannot battle is a ghost. Fearing the past is repeating itself, Ardan has to hope her love for him is stronger than her love of what she lost.
Discover the O’Rourke Family Montana Saga set in the frontier town of Fort, Benton, Montana Territory! Follow as each sibling forgives childhood heartbreak, discovers love, and finds their happily ever after!
The O’Rourke Family Montana Saga
Pioneer Dream
Pioneer Desire
Pioneer Yearning –Coming May 2020
Pioneer Longing—Coming Soon!
Pioneer Bliss—Coming Soon!
Ardan O’Rourke never thought to marry. Not after the heartbreak he suffered as a young man. Not after the years he helped raise his youngest siblings. He never expected to meet Deirdre Finnegan, a spirited woman with a past full of secrets.
Deirdre Finnegan is not who she appears to be. A fine cook and a loner, she yearns for so much more. When Ardan and the O’Rourkes befriend her, she cannot deny her desire to be part of the large, wonderful family. Just when she begins to believe in a new future, her past returns to remind her of all she has lost. And all she must face if she wants to live a life free of doubt and anguish.
Faced with losing Deirdre, Ardan discovers the one foe he cannot battle is a ghost. Fearing the past is repeating itself, Ardan has to hope her love for him is stronger than her love of what she lost.
Discover the O’Rourke Family Montana Saga set in the frontier town of Fort, Benton, Montana Territory! Follow as each sibling forgives childhood heartbreak, discovers love, and finds their happily ever after!
The O’Rourke Family Montana Saga
Pioneer Dream
Pioneer Desire
Pioneer Yearning –Coming May 2020
Pioneer Longing—Coming Soon!
Pioneer Bliss—Coming Soon!
275 pages, ebook
First published March 3, 2020
1523 people are currently reading
407 people want to read
About the author
Ramona Flightner
100 books99 followersRamona is a historical romance author who loves to immerse herself in research as much as she loves writing. A native of Montana, every day she marvels that she gets to live in such a beautiful place. When she’s not writing, her favorite pastimes are fly fishing the cool clear streams of a Montana river, hiking in the mountains, and spending time with family and friends.
Ramona’s heroines are strong, resilient women, the type of women you’d love to have as your best friend. Her heroes are loyal and honorable, the type of men you’d love to meet or bring home to introduce to your family for Sunday dinner. She hopes her stories bring the past alive and allow you to forget the outside world for a while.
Connect with Ramona: her webpage: www.ramonaflightner.com; Facebook: www.facebook.com/authorramonaflightner; on pinterest: www.pinterest.com/Ramonaauthor or on twitter: @ramonaflightner. She loves to hear from fans!
Ramona’s heroines are strong, resilient women, the type of women you’d love to have as your best friend. Her heroes are loyal and honorable, the type of men you’d love to meet or bring home to introduce to your family for Sunday dinner. She hopes her stories bring the past alive and allow you to forget the outside world for a while.
Connect with Ramona: her webpage: www.ramonaflightner.com; Facebook: www.facebook.com/authorramonaflightner; on pinterest: www.pinterest.com/Ramonaauthor or on twitter: @ramonaflightner. She loves to hear from fans!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 124 reviews
May 18, 2020
Avoid; Poorly Written and Implausible
After all the glowing reviews that I read of this book, I was expecting to be blown away. Unfortunately, I found myself actually appalled at how poor this book was, and I honestly cannot see how others could have loved it so much.
So, what is wrong with this book? Where do I start? First, even though this is a full-length novel, the author didn't show any sort of buildup for the romance. She had the perfect chance, as the couple would be spending two months together on a steamboat. Instead, she gives us small snippets of their moments together with a lot of time lag between them; these only show a sort of instant love/attraction. The author missed a golden opportunity. Second, the main villain in this piece is the horrid aunt, and the author has given her no shadings whatsoever. She is just vile, with no goodness to her whatsoever. I felt myself dreading when that horrid woman would be a part of a scene. She was just so bad that I didn't want to read her sections. No villain should be made to be that awful. I very nearly gave up on the book when she disclosed to her niece that she sold all of her niece's good clothes--that her niece had paid for and made herself—so she can be paid back for taking care of her when she became orphaned. Seriously!
The book also had errors of grammar, punctuation, and usage, enough so that I found it aggravating. I did receive an ARC copy of the book, but I checked the first 10% at Amazon and found that at least some errors still existed in the published version.
Another thing I didn't like is everything that happened with the romance once they got off the ship was completely implausible. Now, I know romances aren't always true to life, but there is a difference between "unlike real life" and implausible. I feel like I just kept shaking my head, wondering what other bizarre, inappropriate thing the author would have happen in the book. I was stunned at what she had the heroine do after the initial wedding was called off in the middle of the ceremony. Stunned, and not in a good way. Seriously, is that what that young girl would have done? Ummm, I don't think so. She had other ways out, and she had appeared to be a smart young woman before. Ugh. I hate it when authors make a character act out of character (and stupid)... and all for such an appalling plot turn. Double ugh. Unless you already know and like this author, I do not recommend this book at all. I was so hoping to find a new author and a new series to enjoy, but this is certainly not it.
I received a free copy of this book, but that did not affect my review.
After all the glowing reviews that I read of this book, I was expecting to be blown away. Unfortunately, I found myself actually appalled at how poor this book was, and I honestly cannot see how others could have loved it so much.
So, what is wrong with this book? Where do I start? First, even though this is a full-length novel, the author didn't show any sort of buildup for the romance. She had the perfect chance, as the couple would be spending two months together on a steamboat. Instead, she gives us small snippets of their moments together with a lot of time lag between them; these only show a sort of instant love/attraction. The author missed a golden opportunity. Second, the main villain in this piece is the horrid aunt, and the author has given her no shadings whatsoever. She is just vile, with no goodness to her whatsoever. I felt myself dreading when that horrid woman would be a part of a scene. She was just so bad that I didn't want to read her sections. No villain should be made to be that awful. I very nearly gave up on the book when she disclosed to her niece that she sold all of her niece's good clothes--that her niece had paid for and made herself—so she can be paid back for taking care of her when she became orphaned. Seriously!
The book also had errors of grammar, punctuation, and usage, enough so that I found it aggravating. I did receive an ARC copy of the book, but I checked the first 10% at Amazon and found that at least some errors still existed in the published version.
Another thing I didn't like is everything that happened with the romance once they got off the ship was completely implausible. Now, I know romances aren't always true to life, but there is a difference between "unlike real life" and implausible. I feel like I just kept shaking my head, wondering what other bizarre, inappropriate thing the author would have happen in the book. I was stunned at what she had the heroine do after the initial wedding was called off in the middle of the ceremony. Stunned, and not in a good way. Seriously, is that what that young girl would have done? Ummm, I don't think so. She had other ways out, and she had appeared to be a smart young woman before. Ugh. I hate it when authors make a character act out of character (and stupid)... and all for such an appalling plot turn. Double ugh. Unless you already know and like this author, I do not recommend this book at all. I was so hoping to find a new author and a new series to enjoy, but this is certainly not it.
I received a free copy of this book, but that did not affect my review.
February 25, 2021
The of Rourke Family
Pioneer Dream was my introduction to the boisterous, close knit family the of Rourke family that are loyal to their friends and some strangers that crossed their path. I loved the story line and at times I could not put the book down. The characters in the book were believable and I enjoyed getting to know them. Looking forward to reading book two in series.
Pioneer Dream was my introduction to the boisterous, close knit family the of Rourke family that are loyal to their friends and some strangers that crossed their path. I loved the story line and at times I could not put the book down. The characters in the book were believable and I enjoyed getting to know them. Looking forward to reading book two in series.
February 23, 2021
The Everlasting Love
A wonderful clean well written love story if a family, torn apart and reunited with great surprises, the love, of a wonderful Irish family, I recommend this book for interesting reading.
A wonderful clean well written love story if a family, torn apart and reunited with great surprises, the love, of a wonderful Irish family, I recommend this book for interesting reading.
March 30, 2020
I loved this book. Both main characters have been hurt in the past and both must overtime that hurt to find happiness. The O'Rourke family is a close family that fully embraces new members. They welcome them faults and all. Ardan is strong, yet still in pain over his mother's "abandonment." Deirdre is brave, coming across the country to marry a man she's never met, yet odds still mourning her husband and daughter. Both must ultimately overcome their pain and fear to have their happily ever after.
Ramona is a brilliant author who writes stories that are emotional, heartwarming, heartbreaking, and honest. Her characters are easy to connect with and grab the reader's hearts, making them yearn for a happy ending. The characters are also realistic to the point where the reader feels as if they've known them for years. The stories are also not descriptive when it comes to intimate scenes.
I highly recommend this book, as I have all of Ramona Flightner's books. It will grab your attention and hold it all the way through to the end. It also leaves you waiting with an urgency for the next book in the series to be released.
I received an ARC of this book and am volunteering an honest review.
Ramona is a brilliant author who writes stories that are emotional, heartwarming, heartbreaking, and honest. Her characters are easy to connect with and grab the reader's hearts, making them yearn for a happy ending. The characters are also realistic to the point where the reader feels as if they've known them for years. The stories are also not descriptive when it comes to intimate scenes.
I highly recommend this book, as I have all of Ramona Flightner's books. It will grab your attention and hold it all the way through to the end. It also leaves you waiting with an urgency for the next book in the series to be released.
I received an ARC of this book and am volunteering an honest review.
March 31, 2020
I received an ARC to review: set in the mid 1800's in Montana, this love tale between two people with Irish roots was an absolute delight to follow. Ardan's family dynamics were humourous yet tangibly attractive; it's no wonder Deirdre fell in love with them as well as Ardan! Ramona's narrative of the ways of life and social norms were realistic and accurate, and I felt like I was right there watching the events unfold! A little mystery, a little action, a lot of loving and a dash of humour makes for a captivating read. The main characters' story is complete, but there is a mini cliff-hanger to keep you in anticipation for the next book!
Profanity / Language - Mild
Sexual Content - Mild
Triggers - Gender-based abuse, loss of loved ones
Profanity / Language - Mild
Sexual Content - Mild
Triggers - Gender-based abuse, loss of loved ones
August 6, 2020
Never say never!! A beautiful story about two people who have sworn to never fall in love and have their hearts wounded. When Arden realizes Diedre is attempting to run the cafe alone he offers his aide xnd friendship and his family quickly follows suit. Through the months of that follow friendship turns to love. When Diedre is faced cwith an enemy from her past will she have the strength to denounce the lie that her husband still lives and the bravery to face a future of love with Arden? Several unexpected twists and turns made this book a delight.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 20, 2021
I enjoyed this story about love, lose and family. I thought it was well done and found it very touchy.
February 10, 2021
My review today is on the Western Romance, Pioneer Dream. This is book one in The O'Rourke Family Montana Saga. I don't think I've ever read any of Ramona's books before. I enjoyed this one so much I bought the second one. Which I very seldom do. This book is well written and full of adventure. You will laugh and you will cry. I love the story line. I know you will love this book.
Kevin O'Rourke and his brother have been in St. Louis to purchase supplies for their family store in Montana. They are now returning home after being gone a long time. Kevin catches a young woman who trips in front of him. At first he thinks she's plain. Her dress is the color of mud and doesn't fit but the longer he looks at her the prettier she becomes. Kevin can't help but fall in love with her but she is on her way to be a mail order bride. They spend two months together. How can he let her marry another?
Aileen O'Keefe was left in the care of her mother and her aunt when her father went in search for gold. Her mother died shortly after and her aunt has raised her. A cold, cruel woman, her aunt has decided to marry her off for her own financial gain. She keeps a close watch on her niece telling her how awful men are and how she will end up in a brothel if she doesn't marry her intended.
Imagine their shock when her intended ends up one of Kevin's brothers. How can he hurt his brother? How can she go against her aunt? God has a plan for these two. A plan for a hope and a future. God has a plan for you too, a plan for peace and not for destruction. Give Him your heart and watch HIm turn your life around even in this time of chaos.
Kevin O'Rourke and his brother have been in St. Louis to purchase supplies for their family store in Montana. They are now returning home after being gone a long time. Kevin catches a young woman who trips in front of him. At first he thinks she's plain. Her dress is the color of mud and doesn't fit but the longer he looks at her the prettier she becomes. Kevin can't help but fall in love with her but she is on her way to be a mail order bride. They spend two months together. How can he let her marry another?
Aileen O'Keefe was left in the care of her mother and her aunt when her father went in search for gold. Her mother died shortly after and her aunt has raised her. A cold, cruel woman, her aunt has decided to marry her off for her own financial gain. She keeps a close watch on her niece telling her how awful men are and how she will end up in a brothel if she doesn't marry her intended.
Imagine their shock when her intended ends up one of Kevin's brothers. How can he hurt his brother? How can she go against her aunt? God has a plan for these two. A plan for a hope and a future. God has a plan for you too, a plan for peace and not for destruction. Give Him your heart and watch HIm turn your life around even in this time of chaos.
September 11, 2021
Immerse Yourself In 1860’s Frontier Montana with the O’Rourke Family!
Sensible Kevin O’Rourke does not believe in ghosts, in love at first sight, or in the happily-ever-after type of love. Instead, he is convinced only hard work, dedication to family, and self-sacrifice will bring contentment. When he meets Aileen O’Keefe on the steamboat trip from Saint Louis to Fort Benton, Montana Territory, his world is turned upside down as quickly as she nearly tumbles into the Missouri River. After spending only a few moments in her company, he knows his life will never be the same. Although warned to guard his heart, he is drawn to Aileen, enthralled by her joy and the future he envisions with her.
Aileen O’Keefe knows she is not the sort of woman to captivate handsome Kevin O’Rourke. Charmed by his attentiveness, she is unable to hide her mutual attraction to him, although she knows it is disastrous. For Aileen has a secret. One that will forever separate them. Due to a bargain made by her aunt, their time on the steamboat must be all they can ever share.
Upon arriving in Fort Benton, Kevin discovers that ghosts can return from the dead, love can endure years of hardship, and that his hope for a future with the woman he loves is worth every sacrifice. Aileen must adjust to the rough frontier town as she reconciles herself to the betrayal of one who she had trusted. She must learn to believe in herself so that she can have the confidence to have faith in Kevin’s love.
Can Kevin convince Aileen to trust in the strength of their love or will Aileen turn to another for the fulfillment of her dreams?
Sensible Kevin O’Rourke does not believe in ghosts, in love at first sight, or in the happily-ever-after type of love. Instead, he is convinced only hard work, dedication to family, and self-sacrifice will bring contentment. When he meets Aileen O’Keefe on the steamboat trip from Saint Louis to Fort Benton, Montana Territory, his world is turned upside down as quickly as she nearly tumbles into the Missouri River. After spending only a few moments in her company, he knows his life will never be the same. Although warned to guard his heart, he is drawn to Aileen, enthralled by her joy and the future he envisions with her.
Aileen O’Keefe knows she is not the sort of woman to captivate handsome Kevin O’Rourke. Charmed by his attentiveness, she is unable to hide her mutual attraction to him, although she knows it is disastrous. For Aileen has a secret. One that will forever separate them. Due to a bargain made by her aunt, their time on the steamboat must be all they can ever share.
Upon arriving in Fort Benton, Kevin discovers that ghosts can return from the dead, love can endure years of hardship, and that his hope for a future with the woman he loves is worth every sacrifice. Aileen must adjust to the rough frontier town as she reconciles herself to the betrayal of one who she had trusted. She must learn to believe in herself so that she can have the confidence to have faith in Kevin’s love.
Can Kevin convince Aileen to trust in the strength of their love or will Aileen turn to another for the fulfillment of her dreams?
February 26, 2020
Escaping the potato famine in Ireland and travelling to the New World may have been an adventure, but it was one fraught with danger, sickness, and extreme circumstances. Seamus O'Rourke's family have nevertheless stuck together despite their terrible loss and have finally settled in the Montana territory. Wanting to meet his son's need for a wife, Seamus sends away for a mail order bride and that's when the trouble begins. Kevin O'Rourke meets Aileen on the steamboat, not realising that his father has arranged a bride for his brother, and unaware that the woman he has fallen in love with is to be his brother's wife. The attraction between Kevin and Aileen cannot be denied and as their feelings for one another brew in silence, there are other dramatic events at play that throw the family into a frenzy. The story has tragic elements but as the O'Rourkes know, they can achieve anything when they stand together. My emotions were strongly affected as I read this book as there were so many elements that were painful, and yet I could only rejoice when the family found their way through their difficulties. Seamus is a wonderful character and the O'Rourke boys are all to be admired. However, underneath it all is the quiet strength of their mother that has given them the determination to protect those they love. I received a copy of this book as a gift and this is my honest and voluntary review.
March 3, 2020
AN ABSOLUTELY PHENOMENAL RIDE!!!
Magnificent! Ramona has absolutely outdone herself with this little mind-blowing treasure. I was totally floored from the start and in awe of the talent and vivid imagination. How touching and sincere with all the passion, finesse and immense intellect and skill. A raging tempest of fervent events and baffling circumstances, blow this bad boy wide open. Sparks fly as drama, intrigue, misgivings, turmoil, secrets, mounting suspense and disastrous situations along with a boatload of trouble, makes for one chart topping adventure. Bumbling through the trials and tribulations, noting the disarming twists and unexpected turns, melding this baby together piece by piece seamlessly. Twixt, twinned and intermingled, exposing the heartwarming ups and soaring downs, grounding in it's strength and awe inspiring in it's depth, testing our characters in ways they never anticipated. Anarchy, escapades and havoc run amuck, kicking this gem into a tempest, blasting it into a frenzy with a mind-blowing culmination. The characters flow and blend together smoothly transforming into amazing personalities with depth and qualities that make them unique and relatable. Embellishing abundantly detailed descriptions intertwining each scenario with all the zeal and gusto bringing them to life before your eyes. Fantastic job Ramona, thanks for sharing this little fella with us.
Magnificent! Ramona has absolutely outdone herself with this little mind-blowing treasure. I was totally floored from the start and in awe of the talent and vivid imagination. How touching and sincere with all the passion, finesse and immense intellect and skill. A raging tempest of fervent events and baffling circumstances, blow this bad boy wide open. Sparks fly as drama, intrigue, misgivings, turmoil, secrets, mounting suspense and disastrous situations along with a boatload of trouble, makes for one chart topping adventure. Bumbling through the trials and tribulations, noting the disarming twists and unexpected turns, melding this baby together piece by piece seamlessly. Twixt, twinned and intermingled, exposing the heartwarming ups and soaring downs, grounding in it's strength and awe inspiring in it's depth, testing our characters in ways they never anticipated. Anarchy, escapades and havoc run amuck, kicking this gem into a tempest, blasting it into a frenzy with a mind-blowing culmination. The characters flow and blend together smoothly transforming into amazing personalities with depth and qualities that make them unique and relatable. Embellishing abundantly detailed descriptions intertwining each scenario with all the zeal and gusto bringing them to life before your eyes. Fantastic job Ramona, thanks for sharing this little fella with us.
March 3, 2020
Pioneer Dream by Ramona Flightner is the first book in the new series The O'Rourke Family Montana Saga. It introduces us to the O'Rourke family from Ireland. The family, as with millions of other Irish in Ireland, were caught up in the potato famine. The family travels to America for a new start.
With well-developed characters, we follow the family members' struggles and joys. With her superb writing skills, the author transports us back in time to the 1860s and the goldfields of Montana. There is romance, intrigue, suspense, mystery, and unexpected twists and turns in this saga.
While on a steamboat trip up the Missouri River from St. Louis to Fort Benton Montana Territory, Kevin O’Rourke and Aileen O’Keefe become acquainted and could become romantically interested in each other. When reaching Fort Benton, another man enters the picture. They both seem to bow to the other man as he is interested in Aileen too. Will Kevin and Aileen both decide to select each other?
I enjoyed this first book and could hardly put it down. Two more books are coming out very soon in this exciting series. I can hardly wait for them to be released. I have read this book as an ARC read and would have given it more than five stars if they were available.
With well-developed characters, we follow the family members' struggles and joys. With her superb writing skills, the author transports us back in time to the 1860s and the goldfields of Montana. There is romance, intrigue, suspense, mystery, and unexpected twists and turns in this saga.
While on a steamboat trip up the Missouri River from St. Louis to Fort Benton Montana Territory, Kevin O’Rourke and Aileen O’Keefe become acquainted and could become romantically interested in each other. When reaching Fort Benton, another man enters the picture. They both seem to bow to the other man as he is interested in Aileen too. Will Kevin and Aileen both decide to select each other?
I enjoyed this first book and could hardly put it down. Two more books are coming out very soon in this exciting series. I can hardly wait for them to be released. I have read this book as an ARC read and would have given it more than five stars if they were available.
April 20, 2020
The author takes us back in time on a wild and romantic journey. The ladies are prim and proper and must be chaperoned. The men are wild cowboys craving the attention of the ladies.
The O'Rourke's suffered tragedies in the early years but he raised his nine children with love, respect and loyalty.
Kevin thought he had seen a ghost before he boarded the ship headed home. His mum? How could that be? She died with his baby sister!
Aileen is betrothed to a stranger in Montana. A mail order bride by her aunt. On her journey she meets Kevin. Sparks fly but he knows she belongs to another.
Aunt Janet is a vicious, vindictive woman who demands complete obedience from Aileen. Her whining. Her threats.
Upon meeting her betroth she and Kevin are shocked as to whom she is suppose to marry. Now is the test. His loyalty to his family or the love of his life. Which will he choose?
A beautifully written story that will melt your heart. You will feel the heartbreak, the tragedy Mary endured and the unconditional love of Seamus.
Can't wait to read Ardan and Deidre's story!!
The O'Rourke's suffered tragedies in the early years but he raised his nine children with love, respect and loyalty.
Kevin thought he had seen a ghost before he boarded the ship headed home. His mum? How could that be? She died with his baby sister!
Aileen is betrothed to a stranger in Montana. A mail order bride by her aunt. On her journey she meets Kevin. Sparks fly but he knows she belongs to another.
Aunt Janet is a vicious, vindictive woman who demands complete obedience from Aileen. Her whining. Her threats.
Upon meeting her betroth she and Kevin are shocked as to whom she is suppose to marry. Now is the test. His loyalty to his family or the love of his life. Which will he choose?
A beautifully written story that will melt your heart. You will feel the heartbreak, the tragedy Mary endured and the unconditional love of Seamus.
Can't wait to read Ardan and Deidre's story!!
October 30, 2020
This is an incredible story told by Ramona Flightner as no one else can tell it. Kevin is a remarkable man as is all of his O’Rourke family members. I loved watching him fall in love with Aileen during the two months they were on the steamboat. He knew she was on her way as a mail order bride in his home town of Fort Benton, Montana and despaired at the thought of losing her. However, Aileen was traveling with her conniving aunt who belittled and disparaged her at every chance. We can see a lot of angst and discord, many side stories, happy and sad reunions, deceitful evil men and women, each character very well fleshed out, ones you can well imagine as in your own acquaintance. You can easily envision the scenes described, being on a steamboat, in a small western town, saloon fights, large family dinners....I found myself on a wide spectrum of emotions. But I am very satisfied with the final outcome of Kevin and Aileen’s story. Since the O’Rourke family has so many members, I can imagine we have many more stories to look forward to in this series.
March 23, 2022
A mail order Bride story in 1860 in the old West. Mr O'Rourke had nine sons living in Fort Benton, Montana Territory, none of his sons were married and none knew that their father had written to the agency in the East to get their youngest brother a bride. The older brother Kevin O''Rourke met Aileen O'Keefe on a stream boat going to Fort Benton. She was raised by her aunt, her aunt decided it was time for her niece to married. The aunt knew her niece had already been promised to marry another man but said nothing as the love affair developed between Kevin and her niece, Aileen O'Keefe.
This is an interesting and entertaining story following an older man with all his young grown boys at home, especially at meal time passing bowles around the table and everyone talking at one time. A very close knit family living in Fort Benson. There is love, romances, adventures, lost loves are found after years of searching. I enjoyed this book, there are more in the series. The characters were believable with personalities in the 1800's. I love reading books in this era. It has a great storyline, I am Iooking forward to reading more by this author. A good clean book for all ages
This is an interesting and entertaining story following an older man with all his young grown boys at home, especially at meal time passing bowles around the table and everyone talking at one time. A very close knit family living in Fort Benson. There is love, romances, adventures, lost loves are found after years of searching. I enjoyed this book, there are more in the series. The characters were believable with personalities in the 1800's. I love reading books in this era. It has a great storyline, I am Iooking forward to reading more by this author. A good clean book for all ages
April 9, 2024
Irish tale set in Montana
Oh, gracious! This book took me on a rollercoaster of emotions. I was so sad and disappointed for a while, dreading the sadness. But, I t’s a satisfying read, with depth and intricacies and plenty of love & loyalty. The highs and the joys were all the sweeter after the bitter disappointments. I had to keep reading even though their experiences were difficult, just like hard times in life must be pushed through. And, wow, what a finish!
After reading the prequel, which ends on a tragic note & a bit of a cliffhanger, I knew I had to read this story, book 1. All the O’Rourkes are involved, but this story mostly revolves around stories involving Seamus & Mary, Kevin & Aileen, Declan, and Maggie.
There are very few proofreading mistakes, if that bothers you. Married intimacy is implied in a beautiful & tasteful way. There is the use of a curse word that I assume is Irish and a lot of impassioned talk & behavior. It all works together so well in imparting the tale. I can’t wait to read the next one.
Oh, gracious! This book took me on a rollercoaster of emotions. I was so sad and disappointed for a while, dreading the sadness. But, I t’s a satisfying read, with depth and intricacies and plenty of love & loyalty. The highs and the joys were all the sweeter after the bitter disappointments. I had to keep reading even though their experiences were difficult, just like hard times in life must be pushed through. And, wow, what a finish!
After reading the prequel, which ends on a tragic note & a bit of a cliffhanger, I knew I had to read this story, book 1. All the O’Rourkes are involved, but this story mostly revolves around stories involving Seamus & Mary, Kevin & Aileen, Declan, and Maggie.
There are very few proofreading mistakes, if that bothers you. Married intimacy is implied in a beautiful & tasteful way. There is the use of a curse word that I assume is Irish and a lot of impassioned talk & behavior. It all works together so well in imparting the tale. I can’t wait to read the next one.
March 9, 2020
Kevin O’Rourke thought he had seen a ghost, his mother was dead and the woman disappeared into the crowd. His older brother Ardan clasped him on the shoulder, and also looked into the crowd. But their mother had been dead 18 yrs with a sister. On the steamboat Kevin caught a young women who was falling and kept her from falling overboard. They introduced themselves as someone shouted for her to come along. Kevin just happened to sit next to her at dinner found out she was on her was to be married. But they liked each other and Kevin never thought he would find someone who intrigued him like Miss o’Keeffe. As Kevin and Ardan lay in their bunks that night This is Just The Very Basic Beginning to a wonderfully suspenseful romantic engaging love story I just couldn’t put down....I loved this with a wonderfully delightful plot with engaging characters. I was given this and I voluntarily leave this review.
March 11, 2020
Seamus O'Rourke and his family left Ireland after the potato famine in search of a better life in America. In 1847 the family was separated by a miscommunication and Seamus and his children went on to Fort Benton in the Montana territory to set up a trading post for miners in the area. On a trip from to St Louis to pick up supplies Kevin, Seamus' 2nd oldest son meets Aileen and falls in love with her during the journey back to Fort Benton. The plot thickens when we learn that Seamus has contracted with Aileen's aunt for her to be a mail order bride for his #3 son Declan. Who will Aileen choose Kevin or Declan? There is even more drama as the family is united after 18 years. This is a wonderful family saga and I'm looking forward to the future books.
I received an ARC of from the author and this is my honest and voluntary review.
I received an ARC of from the author and this is my honest and voluntary review.
March 17, 2020
Pioneer Dream (The O'Rourke Family Montana Saga Book 1
This book is a beautiful beginning to what will become one of my favorite series. So many well developed and likeable characters in this book and more to come in the following ones. I've been reading the Bear Grass Spring Series by this author, which has a wonderful storyline and characters, figured I would love this one as well. And I do! Already preordered Book 2.
I love the closeness of this large Irish family, the caring and the love they give to each other. They welcome strangers to their table and embrace them into their family.
This book brought me many happy hours of reading, along with a few sad moments, and like all of Ramona Flightner's books, she wrote a very satisfying and happy ending. Recommend. JudyE
This book is a beautiful beginning to what will become one of my favorite series. So many well developed and likeable characters in this book and more to come in the following ones. I've been reading the Bear Grass Spring Series by this author, which has a wonderful storyline and characters, figured I would love this one as well. And I do! Already preordered Book 2.
I love the closeness of this large Irish family, the caring and the love they give to each other. They welcome strangers to their table and embrace them into their family.
This book brought me many happy hours of reading, along with a few sad moments, and like all of Ramona Flightner's books, she wrote a very satisfying and happy ending. Recommend. JudyE
April 18, 2020
It’s like a gold rush soap opera. I loved every twisty, drama and angst laden moment of it. There’s a lot going on in this book, and that’s not unexpected for the first in a series; there are a lot of O’Rourkes to introduce us to. There are also many, many pieces on the author’s chessboard that need to be set into play. Kevin and Aileen’s story tugged hard on my heartstrings. I spent a lot of time bawling my eyes out over this book. I despaired over the pair ever getting it right to get their happily ever after. In the process, I’ve fallen in love with the entire O’Rourke clan and I can’t wait to read more about them.
I received a complimentary advanced copy of this book through Hidden Gems Books.
I received a complimentary advanced copy of this book through Hidden Gems Books.
July 23, 2023
Good clean romance with cursing
I enjoyed this story very much. Without the cursing, I would have given it a 5. Passion without smut. Several surprises, mostly good. I felt very drawn to the characters. The only bad thing was the F word, with one letter changed, but plainly obvious as a curse word I can not stand to hear or read ever! The end of book contains a cliffhanger, which upset me. I want stories to end, not trying to entice me to read next book. If a story is good, the readers will WANT to read more books by the author. They don't need cliffhangers. Then there was a prelude to the next book, which I also didn't like. So though I loved the story, I'm not sure I'll be reading more in this series.
I enjoyed this story very much. Without the cursing, I would have given it a 5. Passion without smut. Several surprises, mostly good. I felt very drawn to the characters. The only bad thing was the F word, with one letter changed, but plainly obvious as a curse word I can not stand to hear or read ever! The end of book contains a cliffhanger, which upset me. I want stories to end, not trying to entice me to read next book. If a story is good, the readers will WANT to read more books by the author. They don't need cliffhangers. Then there was a prelude to the next book, which I also didn't like. So though I loved the story, I'm not sure I'll be reading more in this series.
August 19, 2024
Pioneer Dream is an interesting tale of love, loyalty and secrets. Though I found the beginning slow and it took me a bit to get into it, once I did the twists and secrets that kept being revealed held me captivated. Once you get to know the O'Rourkes you will come to care for them. I thought that the characters felt realistic with strengths and flaws. The characters face the trials that come along in the story in true fashion to those traits.
I loved the loyalty of the brothers - fighting among one another but having each other's back when it comes to outsiders or when it maters. Love overcoming trials is on full display as is the love of a mother. Through it all, love is the winner in the end and our heroes and heroines end up happy.
I loved the loyalty of the brothers - fighting among one another but having each other's back when it comes to outsiders or when it maters. Love overcoming trials is on full display as is the love of a mother. Through it all, love is the winner in the end and our heroes and heroines end up happy.
March 26, 2020
First: Please read Pioneer Adventure before this book. It’s the series prequel and is FREE. It will greatly enhance the story and this will be a much more satisfying read.
I love the O’Rourkes. They’re a delightful blend of strong personalities that have settled in the Montana Territory in the 1800s. Hardship and tragedy haven’t dulled their spirit nor taken away their joy for life. I’m already emotionally attached to the characters, which is a testament to Ramona’s wonderful writing.
If you enjoy good stories about life in the early west, filled with a healthy dose of romance, I heartily recommend this book, and I believe you’ll be just as hooked as I am with the series.
I love the O’Rourkes. They’re a delightful blend of strong personalities that have settled in the Montana Territory in the 1800s. Hardship and tragedy haven’t dulled their spirit nor taken away their joy for life. I’m already emotionally attached to the characters, which is a testament to Ramona’s wonderful writing.
If you enjoy good stories about life in the early west, filled with a healthy dose of romance, I heartily recommend this book, and I believe you’ll be just as hooked as I am with the series.
April 19, 2020
A REFRESHING READ!
I received this book for free and am giving my honest and voluntary review
After meeting Aileen O’Keefe on a steamboat bound for his town, Fort Benton, Kevin O’Rourke is smitten with her even though she is betrothed to someone else. They keep company for the two-month trip and they fall in love. When finding out that Aileen is betrothed to Kevin’s brother, Declan, Kevin bows out as he promised to step aside if Aileen’s betrothed is a respectable man. Going through her aunt’s machinations and put-downs, Aileen is not able to stand up to the woman and when she is threatened, she follows her aunt’s advice, once again. A no-sex story with a sweet HEA.
I received this book for free and am giving my honest and voluntary review
After meeting Aileen O’Keefe on a steamboat bound for his town, Fort Benton, Kevin O’Rourke is smitten with her even though she is betrothed to someone else. They keep company for the two-month trip and they fall in love. When finding out that Aileen is betrothed to Kevin’s brother, Declan, Kevin bows out as he promised to step aside if Aileen’s betrothed is a respectable man. Going through her aunt’s machinations and put-downs, Aileen is not able to stand up to the woman and when she is threatened, she follows her aunt’s advice, once again. A no-sex story with a sweet HEA.
July 23, 2020
A great clean Western romance about the O'Roark family. As part of a Saga this novel has many layers to it as it not only tells Kevin and Aileen's story, but sets the stage for future stories and brings to a conclusion thd story begun in the prequel. Things get tangled when Kevin falls in love with his brother Declan's mail-order bride as they travel the 2 month journey on a crowded steam boat to Fort Benton. Aileen doesn't know to whom she is betrothed, just that she is. Declan has no idea she was ordered by their father. It is a bittersweet and at times funny story as they untangle things for a HEA ending.
April 1, 2022
I have such mixed emotions about this book. I loved Kevin and his devotion to Aileen. I liked his close-knit family. I truly want to find out the stories of the other members of the family, although I found the Mary story highly unbelievable. Every character in the book seemed to be either a really good person or very bad (Jacques and Mrs. Davies). I got a little tired of all the crying or kissing or describing touching hair, rubbing arms, etc. These were the most touchy-feely people I’ve ever seen. Haha! And the way cursing tried to be camouflaged with an Irish pronunciation was almost humorous.
So while I enjoyed the romance, some parts of the book made me roll my eyes.
So while I enjoyed the romance, some parts of the book made me roll my eyes.
January 31, 2021
Loved This Book!
I usually don’t read a lot of historical fiction - I’m much more of a contemporary fiction reader. But I was intrigued by the synopsis of Pioneer Dream and decided to take a chance. I’m so glad I did! This was a fascinating story with a lot of historical detail. Readers will enjoy getting to know the O’Rourke family and will love their devotion to one another. Intertwining stories of the family members make this a great book to read on a winter’s rainy afternoon!
I usually don’t read a lot of historical fiction - I’m much more of a contemporary fiction reader. But I was intrigued by the synopsis of Pioneer Dream and decided to take a chance. I’m so glad I did! This was a fascinating story with a lot of historical detail. Readers will enjoy getting to know the O’Rourke family and will love their devotion to one another. Intertwining stories of the family members make this a great book to read on a winter’s rainy afternoon!
February 14, 2021
How about a mail order bride?
Kevin and Ardan were finished with their buying trip to St. Louis for the families' supply house up in Montana. Making sure the goods were being properly stored on board, Kevin was shocked to see the back of a woman that looked like his mother, but she'd been dead for 17 years!
Aileen and her awful aunt are on the way to Aileen's mail order bride wedding. At least that's her wicked aunt's plan. When she and the brothers end up on the same river boat up the Missouri, all bets are off.
A really good read!
Kevin and Ardan were finished with their buying trip to St. Louis for the families' supply house up in Montana. Making sure the goods were being properly stored on board, Kevin was shocked to see the back of a woman that looked like his mother, but she'd been dead for 17 years!
Aileen and her awful aunt are on the way to Aileen's mail order bride wedding. At least that's her wicked aunt's plan. When she and the brothers end up on the same river boat up the Missouri, all bets are off.
A really good read!
April 17, 2020
A complex and interesting plot.
This book was not what I expected and it was a wonderful surprise. This well-written tale has Kevin and Aileen together. Their first meeting on the steamboat changes both of their lives. There are surprises and twists and true emotional parts that were so engaging. I am looking forward to reading the other books in the series. I did receive a free copy of this book and voluntarily chose to review it.
This book was not what I expected and it was a wonderful surprise. This well-written tale has Kevin and Aileen together. Their first meeting on the steamboat changes both of their lives. There are surprises and twists and true emotional parts that were so engaging. I am looking forward to reading the other books in the series. I did receive a free copy of this book and voluntarily chose to review it.
May 17, 2020
This is an excellent start to a series. The O'Rourke family is warm and inviting. Aileen is being deceived by her aunt and she has fallen for Kevin O'Rourke's charms. Aileen must learn what a true family is before she can realize her dream. There is plenty afoot in this story, and what seems to be the truth turns into an awful deception. I enjoyed meeting the O'Rourke's and their untypical family.
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