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Montana Trails #1
Broken Trails
A lonely cowboy … a woman searching for hope. Can love bring enough healing to carry them through?
Nathan Rourke lost almost everything he holds dear. What he still has, he’ll do anything to keep. His Montana ranch is not just a place, it’s his home and what’s left of his family. He’s holding his own, making it work.
But then high-school sweetheart Emma reappears … and suddenly this cowboy’s life is as rough as a ride on an untamed bronc.
Emma Benson left high school without a word to Nate, rather than admit she was too ill to go on. Now she’s desperate to prove that she’s more than the disease that keeps her dependent on her family and friends. And she craves just one more chance at love.
Nate embodies the promise of a life free from the confines of her small world. But will loving her mean he must give up his own freedom?
No matter which path they choose, this young couple will be battling the odds.
Nathan Rourke lost almost everything he holds dear. What he still has, he’ll do anything to keep. His Montana ranch is not just a place, it’s his home and what’s left of his family. He’s holding his own, making it work.
But then high-school sweetheart Emma reappears … and suddenly this cowboy’s life is as rough as a ride on an untamed bronc.
Emma Benson left high school without a word to Nate, rather than admit she was too ill to go on. Now she’s desperate to prove that she’s more than the disease that keeps her dependent on her family and friends. And she craves just one more chance at love.
Nate embodies the promise of a life free from the confines of her small world. But will loving her mean he must give up his own freedom?
No matter which path they choose, this young couple will be battling the odds.
324 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 29, 2016
3745 people are currently reading
687 people want to read
About the author
Bonnie R. Paulson
129 books662 followersUSA Today Bestselling author, Bonnie Paulson focuses on the drive of sweet western romances and the heros who ride for justice and the love of their lives. Living with her own cowboy helps keep things real!
Some of her favorite authors are Robyn Carr, Liz Isaacson, and Linda Lael Miller!
Sign up and get a free Paulson western romance!
http://www.bonniepaulson.com
Some of her favorite authors are Robyn Carr, Liz Isaacson, and Linda Lael Miller!
Sign up and get a free Paulson western romance!
http://www.bonniepaulson.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 120 reviews
September 1, 2016
This is my first Bonnie Paulson book and I can assure you, it will not be my last. The people in this book were alive and so full of personality, hope and pain that it kept me flipping from happy, to sad, to worried all in a few pages. I loved the entire family. to see such supportive and loving members of a family caring for each other was beautiful. Nate is a wonderful character. He brought so much life into the story. I can not wait to read more about him, Emma, Drake, Hannah and the rest. Makes me want to saddle up and head to Montana.
December 16, 2017
FTC DISCLAIMER: I RECEIVED AN E-ARC FROM THE AUTHOR. I VOLUNTARILY OFFER MY HONEST REVIEW OF THE BOOK, THOUGH IT IS NOT EXPECTED OF ME! RECEIPT OF THIS BOOK IN THIS MANNER DOES NOT AFFECT MY OPINION OF THE BOOK OR THE CONTENT OF MY REVIEW!
Having read some of the author's other works, I was somewhat eager to read this story, even though I am not a huge fan of western themed stories. I really liked the second chances romance between Emma and Nate. I also liked the very realistic look at modern ranching life and its struggles. I really loved how Emma refused to let her illness constrain her or define her any longer. I loved her bravery in the face of an uncertain future.
However, the story felt dry in spots. It was really difficult for me to keep interested in the story, because it didn't really come alive for me. I was wishing for more vibrancy to the settings and characters and this installment just didn't have it. I'm interested in continuing the series, though, so hopefully it will improve.
Having read some of the author's other works, I was somewhat eager to read this story, even though I am not a huge fan of western themed stories. I really liked the second chances romance between Emma and Nate. I also liked the very realistic look at modern ranching life and its struggles. I really loved how Emma refused to let her illness constrain her or define her any longer. I loved her bravery in the face of an uncertain future.
However, the story felt dry in spots. It was really difficult for me to keep interested in the story, because it didn't really come alive for me. I was wishing for more vibrancy to the settings and characters and this installment just didn't have it. I'm interested in continuing the series, though, so hopefully it will improve.
August 17, 2019
A western romance with lots of angst. He's trying to save his ranch and she is suffering from a serious disease. I found this book to be likable but very predictable.
April 21, 2016
I have to say I have never read a romance book quite like this one! When Bonnie Paulson says she writes books about survivors, she certainly means it. Nate is trying to raise his two younger sisters after the death of his parents while fighting to save the family farm against the odds. Emma is struggling to live, and not just to live but survive cancer. Emma's illness has left her parents in very dire straights, and so Emma is also suffering from guilt and feeling as if she is no more than a burden. To Nate, she is anything but a burden. Now he just needs to prove that to Emma and to show her that whatever time they have is worth it.
The struggles facing all of this characters was very realistic but amazing in that they didn't give up or act jaded as you might expect. Looking forward to seeing more of this family.
ARC received in exchange for an honest review.
The struggles facing all of this characters was very realistic but amazing in that they didn't give up or act jaded as you might expect. Looking forward to seeing more of this family.
ARC received in exchange for an honest review.
June 28, 2020
Wow!
I only stopped reading to sleep! Hooked from the first page! Can't wait to read the rest of the series!
I only stopped reading to sleep! Hooked from the first page! Can't wait to read the rest of the series!
February 22, 2017
This will pull on your heartstrings!
Broken Trails is the first book in the Montana Trails series by Bonnie Paulson. It tells the story of Nathan Rourke and Emma Benson. It is a sweet contemporary romance, which means it has no sexual situations and little to no bad language.
When his parents are killed in a car accident, Nathan Rourke, at the age of 21, is suddenly thrust into the role of sole support and guardian for his two younger sisters. As he struggles to make the family ranch pay enough to support his family and pay the bills, he is largely unsuccessful. However, he is at least able to provide enough food. As he turns to selling off ranch equipment and anything else he can find that will bring in money, he doesn't know what to do with the ranch turned wheat farm that his dad had converted only a few years before he died.
Emma's parents are in even worse shape than Nathan. They don't even bring in enough money to buy sufficient food for the family. On top of that, Emma's father loses his job because he has taken off so many days when Emma was hospitalized with her life threatening illness. Her medical bills, on top of daily expenses, are literally running their ranch into the ground. Emma can't even make plans for the future, because she is not sure she will even have one.
Nate and Emma dated and formed a close relationship in high school, but she suddenly dropped out of sight when her health took a turn for the worst. She is the only girl Nate has ever loved, so will he be able to convince her to remain behind when her parents sell the ranch and move to Washington state to look for work? Will Emma's health remain stable enough for her to work as a companion and helper for Nate's youngest sister?
I really enjoyed this book. I thought it showed the reality of the challenges family ranches and farms are facing. Emma's health problems and her wish to live a life independently from her parents really hit home for me. Nate and Emma's characters were well developed, and the storyline was well thought out. I appreciated that it didn't have graphic sexual situations and foul language like most contemporary romances do these days.
I would definitely recommend this book for anyone over the age of mid teens. I plan to read more books in the series as well.
Broken Trails is the first book in the Montana Trails series by Bonnie Paulson. It tells the story of Nathan Rourke and Emma Benson. It is a sweet contemporary romance, which means it has no sexual situations and little to no bad language.
When his parents are killed in a car accident, Nathan Rourke, at the age of 21, is suddenly thrust into the role of sole support and guardian for his two younger sisters. As he struggles to make the family ranch pay enough to support his family and pay the bills, he is largely unsuccessful. However, he is at least able to provide enough food. As he turns to selling off ranch equipment and anything else he can find that will bring in money, he doesn't know what to do with the ranch turned wheat farm that his dad had converted only a few years before he died.
Emma's parents are in even worse shape than Nathan. They don't even bring in enough money to buy sufficient food for the family. On top of that, Emma's father loses his job because he has taken off so many days when Emma was hospitalized with her life threatening illness. Her medical bills, on top of daily expenses, are literally running their ranch into the ground. Emma can't even make plans for the future, because she is not sure she will even have one.
Nate and Emma dated and formed a close relationship in high school, but she suddenly dropped out of sight when her health took a turn for the worst. She is the only girl Nate has ever loved, so will he be able to convince her to remain behind when her parents sell the ranch and move to Washington state to look for work? Will Emma's health remain stable enough for her to work as a companion and helper for Nate's youngest sister?
I really enjoyed this book. I thought it showed the reality of the challenges family ranches and farms are facing. Emma's health problems and her wish to live a life independently from her parents really hit home for me. Nate and Emma's characters were well developed, and the storyline was well thought out. I appreciated that it didn't have graphic sexual situations and foul language like most contemporary romances do these days.
I would definitely recommend this book for anyone over the age of mid teens. I plan to read more books in the series as well.
September 26, 2017
Nate Rourke and Emma Benson were high school sweethearts with their whole lives in front of them. Everything changed when Emma's childhood illness returned. She was forced to drop out of school and endure endless rounds of hospital visits. Too proud to admit her illness to Nate, she left him without a word of goodbye.
Since then, Emma's life has been difficult. Her father barely earns enough money to put food on the table, and her hospital bills are crippling the already poverty stricken family. Emma won't allow herself to be a burden on anyone, much less the man she's loved since she was a teen. She put Nate out of her heart, and turns her focus to her health and her family.
Years later, 23 year old Nate is caring for his younger sisters after the death of his parents and struggling to keep his ranch afloat. When Emma storms back into his life, he can't help but hope they might have a chance at friendship. He's desperate to keep her in his life any way he can. But with two younger sisters depending on him, and no way to earn money to save his ranch, nothing about his future is clear.
This wasn't a light and frothy romance read, the characters faced real life challenges. In a market saturated with billionaire romances, it was refreshing to read a romance about the obstacles facing families in rural communities, from hospital bills to the lack of work in a small town. This was very much a character driven book. Nate and Emma were well drawn, and they felt like people I wanted to comfort in person. The way Nate made Emma feel needed was touching. Emma's battle with her own self-worth was realistic and well written.
The narration was done well, the pace and delivery were perfect and the narrator was able to convey the character's personalities well. I was provided a copy of the audiobook in exchange for an honest review, and I'll be keeping an eye out for more by the author and narrator.
Since then, Emma's life has been difficult. Her father barely earns enough money to put food on the table, and her hospital bills are crippling the already poverty stricken family. Emma won't allow herself to be a burden on anyone, much less the man she's loved since she was a teen. She put Nate out of her heart, and turns her focus to her health and her family.
Years later, 23 year old Nate is caring for his younger sisters after the death of his parents and struggling to keep his ranch afloat. When Emma storms back into his life, he can't help but hope they might have a chance at friendship. He's desperate to keep her in his life any way he can. But with two younger sisters depending on him, and no way to earn money to save his ranch, nothing about his future is clear.
This wasn't a light and frothy romance read, the characters faced real life challenges. In a market saturated with billionaire romances, it was refreshing to read a romance about the obstacles facing families in rural communities, from hospital bills to the lack of work in a small town. This was very much a character driven book. Nate and Emma were well drawn, and they felt like people I wanted to comfort in person. The way Nate made Emma feel needed was touching. Emma's battle with her own self-worth was realistic and well written.
The narration was done well, the pace and delivery were perfect and the narrator was able to convey the character's personalities well. I was provided a copy of the audiobook in exchange for an honest review, and I'll be keeping an eye out for more by the author and narrator.
June 8, 2017
Broken Trails by Bonnie R. Paulson is Book 1 of the Montana Trails Series.
Ms. Paulson is a new-to-me author, and while this was a heart-tugging read, it wasn’t a stand out from the crowd kind of book for me. Broken Trails is a G-rated romance of approximately 150'ish pages. I did note a number of editing/grammar issues that should have been caught prior to publication. The storyline itself was pretty predicable and not terribly exciting. To be honest, this tended to be more of a sad, depressing read that only had a few moments of one not feeling overly-crushed by all that was being delivered to Nate and Emma’s doors. While Nate and Emma were absolutely adorable, I wasn’t compelled by their romance. It’s not to say I didn’t feel for their plight; I did. At this point though, I am withholding judgment on going further with any other of this author’s books.
Please note that an ARC was generously provided in exchange for an honest review of which this is both honest and completely voluntary.
Ms. Paulson is a new-to-me author, and while this was a heart-tugging read, it wasn’t a stand out from the crowd kind of book for me. Broken Trails is a G-rated romance of approximately 150'ish pages. I did note a number of editing/grammar issues that should have been caught prior to publication. The storyline itself was pretty predicable and not terribly exciting. To be honest, this tended to be more of a sad, depressing read that only had a few moments of one not feeling overly-crushed by all that was being delivered to Nate and Emma’s doors. While Nate and Emma were absolutely adorable, I wasn’t compelled by their romance. It’s not to say I didn’t feel for their plight; I did. At this point though, I am withholding judgment on going further with any other of this author’s books.
Please note that an ARC was generously provided in exchange for an honest review of which this is both honest and completely voluntary.
February 29, 2016
Emma's health issues limit her independence and hope for the future while her parents struggle financially. Nate is trying to keep his family's Montana ranch and raise his younger sisters after losing their parents in an auto accident. When Emma's parents are forced to sell their ranch and move to Washington to seek employment, Emma stays behind to help Nate and his teenage sisters Hannah and Stephanie.
As the four young people try to earn enough money to survive and keep their ranch, Emma's health issues resurface. The trials the young family group goes through serve to toughen them and bind them together. None of the characters whine about their circumstances and their industriousness and ingenuity make for a good story. This is an interesting romance between Nate and Emma as they face real life trials.
I was given an advance copy of the book for my honest review.
As the four young people try to earn enough money to survive and keep their ranch, Emma's health issues resurface. The trials the young family group goes through serve to toughen them and bind them together. None of the characters whine about their circumstances and their industriousness and ingenuity make for a good story. This is an interesting romance between Nate and Emma as they face real life trials.
I was given an advance copy of the book for my honest review.
May 4, 2016
Nathan and Emma are high school sweethearts, when Emma one day without a word disappeared from school and out of his life. Nathan and his sisters are having a hard time keeping their heads above water after their parents are killed in an accident. the left nothing behind no insurance, no savings, nothing but he is determine to keep the family farm. The rebel in the family Stefanie is skipping school and hang out with friends, when Nathan looks for her, he sees Emma and his feelings rush up again, will they find each other again and repair what broke?
Another great start of this new series from Bonnie, the characters are great and so well thought out, it is a sweet romance and a story you can find yourself in, can't wait for next book. I received this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Another great start of this new series from Bonnie, the characters are great and so well thought out, it is a sweet romance and a story you can find yourself in, can't wait for next book. I received this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
August 10, 2020
The actual storyline was ok. Where I had a problem was in all the editing errors, the repetition, and the few times the author’s voice came out rather than the characters’. Overall I just think this could have benefitted from a few beta readers and a good editor.
SPOILER
The one part of the story that really bothered me was the “wedding.” Like, “You gave consent for a surgery and a marriage while you were in and out of consciousness. So, yeah, surprise!” Um... no. Not okay. That was a HUGE stretch for me and really felt unethical.
SPOILER
The one part of the story that really bothered me was the “wedding.” Like, “You gave consent for a surgery and a marriage while you were in and out of consciousness. So, yeah, surprise!” Um... no. Not okay. That was a HUGE stretch for me and really felt unethical.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 17, 2020
Horrid, waste of time.
I am curious to know why people gave this story 4-5 star ratings. The story editing, character development, etc was a total mess.
Smh, four hours of my life I will never get back.
I am curious to know why people gave this story 4-5 star ratings. The story editing, character development, etc was a total mess.
Smh, four hours of my life I will never get back.
July 24, 2016
This was a cute G rated read. A lovely love story between a cowboy and his sick sweetheart. Very touching. Great family.
September 19, 2016
I am not even sure why I finished this book except I guess I was hoping it might improve. It didn't. Not worth the time I took to read it and even then I skimmed a lot of it. Depressing.
May 14, 2023
Syrupy sweet, not particularly well written.
April 22, 2019
This is such a beautiful story. The storyline for me is different from many of the other books I have read. It is about Emma who has had to deal with cancer through out her entire life and she is just 21 years of age. She has had more surgeries and been confined to hospitals more than most people have their entire life. Her parents are having a hard time making ends meet, feeding and clothing their family. Her brother has been sent to their uncle because her parents aren’t able to provide for him. She feels like a burden to her family. And, though her family dearly loves her, comments are often made that reinforces the idea that she is a burden to her family. However, she has a boyfriend that she has known since high school and when she was last in remission from her cancer. As far as Emma is concerned there has been no one but Nate. And for Nate, there has never been anyone but Emma.
Nate and his sisters have lived through their own tragedies. They lost their parents at a young age. Nate has graduated from high school and in his twenties. One of his sisters, Stephanie is in high school and Hannah is just finishing middle school. Nate is doing everything he can to get his sisters through school, to feed and clothe them, as well as keeping them in their home.
Nate does not treat her like a burden. He not only makes her feel loved; but also makes her feel needed. She decides much to the chagrin of her family to move in with Nate and his sisters.
Emma ends up suffering not one but two heart attacks. She ends up being fitted with a pacemaker. This makes a big difference in her life along with the difference being apart of Nate’s and his sisters’ lives. She also goes into remission with her cancer.
My favorite passage in the book is after she finds that she is in remission, “I’m good for now.” And then a paragraph later, “For once, just once, she was in a perfect spot where she was needed and wasn’t a burden. She was loved and wasn’t scared of where her next meal was coming from. They weren’t rich with money, but she was rich with blessings.
I’ll take now. Nate lowered his lips and kissed briefly, but with promise. She could take now, too.”
There is an HEA here; but as I read some of the notes from the Author at the end of the book it is not the end of the story for Nate and Emma. As I have contemplated buying the other volumes in this series I have noted while reading the excerpts of the other volumes the HEA for Emma is only temporary.
But to me the most important point of this is that every one needs to feel needed and loved. And no one wants to feel like a burden.
Nate and his sisters have lived through their own tragedies. They lost their parents at a young age. Nate has graduated from high school and in his twenties. One of his sisters, Stephanie is in high school and Hannah is just finishing middle school. Nate is doing everything he can to get his sisters through school, to feed and clothe them, as well as keeping them in their home.
Nate does not treat her like a burden. He not only makes her feel loved; but also makes her feel needed. She decides much to the chagrin of her family to move in with Nate and his sisters.
Emma ends up suffering not one but two heart attacks. She ends up being fitted with a pacemaker. This makes a big difference in her life along with the difference being apart of Nate’s and his sisters’ lives. She also goes into remission with her cancer.
My favorite passage in the book is after she finds that she is in remission, “I’m good for now.” And then a paragraph later, “For once, just once, she was in a perfect spot where she was needed and wasn’t a burden. She was loved and wasn’t scared of where her next meal was coming from. They weren’t rich with money, but she was rich with blessings.
I’ll take now. Nate lowered his lips and kissed briefly, but with promise. She could take now, too.”
There is an HEA here; but as I read some of the notes from the Author at the end of the book it is not the end of the story for Nate and Emma. As I have contemplated buying the other volumes in this series I have noted while reading the excerpts of the other volumes the HEA for Emma is only temporary.
But to me the most important point of this is that every one needs to feel needed and loved. And no one wants to feel like a burden.
July 27, 2017
What a pleasant surprise. I was looking forward to this story and was not disappointed at all. It's a well written, very entertaining and enjoyable sweet clean romance story that is so much more than boy meets girl. Even though it is a heartbreaking emotional roller-coaster at times it's a refreshing change from many of the romance stories that I have read lately.
It only takes one major event to change your whole life and the path you had planned out. Emma and Nate both suffer life changing events that pull them apart. Even though they may have been torn apart by the events in their lives, the feelings they hold for one another have always been there.
When their paths cross again, with a little luck and working together to help each other maybe this time things will work out for them.
Nate and Emma were both immediately likable characters. Life is hard sometimes. The struggles they have faced are real not just made up drama and miscommunication. You can't help but feel for each of them and the hardships they have each faced in their lives, especially for their young ages and root for their HEA.
Karen Rose Richter did a really good job with the narration. Pleasant voice that is easy to listen to for long periods of time. Clearly spoken with a nice even pace. Good character voices. She was able to convey the emotions of the characters and bring them and the story to life. Very enjoyable
I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and voluntarily provided this review.
It only takes one major event to change your whole life and the path you had planned out. Emma and Nate both suffer life changing events that pull them apart. Even though they may have been torn apart by the events in their lives, the feelings they hold for one another have always been there.
When their paths cross again, with a little luck and working together to help each other maybe this time things will work out for them.
Nate and Emma were both immediately likable characters. Life is hard sometimes. The struggles they have faced are real not just made up drama and miscommunication. You can't help but feel for each of them and the hardships they have each faced in their lives, especially for their young ages and root for their HEA.
Karen Rose Richter did a really good job with the narration. Pleasant voice that is easy to listen to for long periods of time. Clearly spoken with a nice even pace. Good character voices. She was able to convey the emotions of the characters and bring them and the story to life. Very enjoyable
I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and voluntarily provided this review.
November 6, 2017
It took me a while to settle into this story. It is unusual for a romance, as these people are poor. Emma has been sick most of her life, and paying for her care has drained her family resources. Her parents work hard, but there is often no food on the table. Nate has to look after his younger sisters after their parents were killed in a motor accident. He is trying to run an arable farm, wishing he had horses and cattle instead, the weather has been unkind and the farm is failing, he has a lot of debts. But they always have decent food on the table, Hannah, the youngest, is an excellent cook.
Emma had been Nate's one and only girlfriend when they were at high school. He doesn't know about her illness, doesn't know why she abandoned him. They meet again, and he is determined to keep her close, when she tells him about her illness it doesn't deter him. His sister Stefanie offers to take a summer job working on a ranch to help bring in money, the job had been offered to Nate but he cannot leave Hannah and the farm. He agrees, and when he is offered part-time work as a blacksmith, something he trained for and is good at; he offers Emma a job, looking after Hannah and light work about the farm, an opportunity she jumps at, having never been able to work before.
There are a few trials and tribulations along the way, mostly health matters, but a very sweet, happy ending. Well worth reading.
Emma had been Nate's one and only girlfriend when they were at high school. He doesn't know about her illness, doesn't know why she abandoned him. They meet again, and he is determined to keep her close, when she tells him about her illness it doesn't deter him. His sister Stefanie offers to take a summer job working on a ranch to help bring in money, the job had been offered to Nate but he cannot leave Hannah and the farm. He agrees, and when he is offered part-time work as a blacksmith, something he trained for and is good at; he offers Emma a job, looking after Hannah and light work about the farm, an opportunity she jumps at, having never been able to work before.
There are a few trials and tribulations along the way, mostly health matters, but a very sweet, happy ending. Well worth reading.
September 5, 2021
Cancer stalls a sweet romance
Emma and Nate had fallen in love in high school, but their relationship had faltered when she had to go to the hospital for a long time. Her parents were so poor they couldn't afford the food she and her brother needed. When she ran into Nate again, she was 21 and her was dealing with a rebellious younger sister. His parents had been killed in a car accident, and her was raising his two younger sisters and struggling to keep their ranch going. Both families were poor, and found it hard to survive, especially with Emma's illness. But the story gets better, and so does Emma when she goes to live with Nate. Emma discovers from a doctor at a free clinic that he prognosis can improve greatly if she gets a pacemaker. There are many new developments after that and Nate discovers he can take care of Emma better if he marries her. He can give his consent for her treatment if they are married. In spite of his promises to remain friends, she finally confesses her lover for him, and they are married in the hospital by a Catholic priest. But that's still not the end of the story. I won't spoil it for other readers, but the story ends with even more good news..
Emma and Nate had fallen in love in high school, but their relationship had faltered when she had to go to the hospital for a long time. Her parents were so poor they couldn't afford the food she and her brother needed. When she ran into Nate again, she was 21 and her was dealing with a rebellious younger sister. His parents had been killed in a car accident, and her was raising his two younger sisters and struggling to keep their ranch going. Both families were poor, and found it hard to survive, especially with Emma's illness. But the story gets better, and so does Emma when she goes to live with Nate. Emma discovers from a doctor at a free clinic that he prognosis can improve greatly if she gets a pacemaker. There are many new developments after that and Nate discovers he can take care of Emma better if he marries her. He can give his consent for her treatment if they are married. In spite of his promises to remain friends, she finally confesses her lover for him, and they are married in the hospital by a Catholic priest. But that's still not the end of the story. I won't spoil it for other readers, but the story ends with even more good news..
April 5, 2021
Emma and Nate
Nate can't believe his parents are gone. A double funeral, just doesn't seem right! Plus now he needs to do right with his sisters Stephanie, 14 and Hannah, 11. Now two years later and they are just barely getting by. Every time Nate passed the Benson place, as he was now to go out to Old Man Ruger's place to see if Stephanie was there, he thought of Emma! Emma his high school sweetheart! He still didn't know what had happened to her 4 years ago, she had just disappeared! He's just about to go into the clearing after locating his sister, when he is distracted, along with everyone else, when Emma comes barging into the clearing and telling her brother Drake to get home! Now what? Will the flame she still carries for Nate consume her? What about Nate? What of his flame for Emma? Will they both be to stubborn to even acknowledge their feelings? What happens to Drake once their father sees him? Will Stephanie suffer any consequences? Only one way to find out, read this great story by Bonnie Paulson. So much happens you won't want to put it down!
Nate can't believe his parents are gone. A double funeral, just doesn't seem right! Plus now he needs to do right with his sisters Stephanie, 14 and Hannah, 11. Now two years later and they are just barely getting by. Every time Nate passed the Benson place, as he was now to go out to Old Man Ruger's place to see if Stephanie was there, he thought of Emma! Emma his high school sweetheart! He still didn't know what had happened to her 4 years ago, she had just disappeared! He's just about to go into the clearing after locating his sister, when he is distracted, along with everyone else, when Emma comes barging into the clearing and telling her brother Drake to get home! Now what? Will the flame she still carries for Nate consume her? What about Nate? What of his flame for Emma? Will they both be to stubborn to even acknowledge their feelings? What happens to Drake once their father sees him? Will Stephanie suffer any consequences? Only one way to find out, read this great story by Bonnie Paulson. So much happens you won't want to put it down!
March 15, 2019
Tale of two families
A heart-wrenching story of two families that are fighting for their survival in rural Montana. Kate Rourke and his two young sisters have been fighting to hold onto their family ranch every since their parents died in a wreck two years ago.
Emma Benson is a neighbor of Nate's and an ex-girlfriend who has cancer and has caused her parents a great deal of medical bills over the years. When her father loses his job for spending too much time at the hospital with Emma it is the last straw. No jobs locally so her parents try other states.
Emma doesn't like feeling helpless at twenty-four so she goes to help Hate take care of his two sisters while he works on a ranch miles away.
First time read for this author and I greatly enjoyed her way of delving into everyday problems of today's family hardships in our economy. Heartfelt tale.
A heart-wrenching story of two families that are fighting for their survival in rural Montana. Kate Rourke and his two young sisters have been fighting to hold onto their family ranch every since their parents died in a wreck two years ago.
Emma Benson is a neighbor of Nate's and an ex-girlfriend who has cancer and has caused her parents a great deal of medical bills over the years. When her father loses his job for spending too much time at the hospital with Emma it is the last straw. No jobs locally so her parents try other states.
Emma doesn't like feeling helpless at twenty-four so she goes to help Hate take care of his two sisters while he works on a ranch miles away.
First time read for this author and I greatly enjoyed her way of delving into everyday problems of today's family hardships in our economy. Heartfelt tale.
May 12, 2020
Real life difficulties with a western twist is featured in this story. Nate struggles to pay bills so they won’t lose their ranch in spite of suffering from the loss of his parents in a car accident and having to take care of his younger sisters. Nate is also dealing with the unrequited love he has with Emma. He is sincere, strong and true. I fell in love with Nate and his inner strength. His sisters were two distinctly different personalities but I respected them both the same. They upheld their share of responsibilities to support the ranch. I loved the way Emma was included with helping with chores. She wanted to feel useful in spite of her ill health and not feel like a burden that she was with her parents. I especially loved the HEA. It’s great to end a story with such a wonderful warm fuzzy feeling.
October 26, 2017
This was a sweet contemporary romance. Emma left high school without telling Nate why, rather than admit she how ill she was. Nate lost his parents and is determined to do whatever it takes to keep the ranch and take care of his two younger sisters. He still loves Emma, and when she reappears in his life he is determined to find a way to include her in his life. Emma wants Nate in her life too, but doesn't want to burden him with her illness. I enjoyed reading this book. It can be read as a standalone story, though it is the first in The Montana Trails Series. I look forward to reading more books by this author.
July 30, 2021
Good From Beginning to End
I loved this story. I have health issues, although not as bad as Emma. However I could really sympathize with many of the issues she faced in her life. The love story between Nate and Emma was refreshingly clean, but also filled with their love for each other. Emma’s dad comes across as somewhat of a bully, and her mom was the typical 50’s mom that blindly did whatever her husband wanted, including sending their son to live with someone else. There was also a lot of action and drama to keep things interesting. This is the first book I’ve read by this author, but she is already on my list of good authors to read.
I loved this story. I have health issues, although not as bad as Emma. However I could really sympathize with many of the issues she faced in her life. The love story between Nate and Emma was refreshingly clean, but also filled with their love for each other. Emma’s dad comes across as somewhat of a bully, and her mom was the typical 50’s mom that blindly did whatever her husband wanted, including sending their son to live with someone else. There was also a lot of action and drama to keep things interesting. This is the first book I’ve read by this author, but she is already on my list of good authors to read.
July 12, 2023
Twenty-one year old Nate Rourke’s parents had been killed in a car accident and it was his responsibility to help raise his two younger sisters. Nate is struggling to keep the ranch running. Emma Benson has cancer and has been in and out hospitals for a while. Emma’s parents are also struggling to keep their lives going with all of Emma’s medical bills piling up. Nate and Emma dated in high school until her health made her drop out of school. Emma’s parents end up selling their ranch and moving to Washington to help pay for Emma’s medical bills. Will Emma and Nate be able to continue their romance. I really enjoyed this sweet western romance novel.
July 17, 2023
Two Struggling Families -
I found this book to be a 'punch in the gut' kind of story! Get the tissues out because you may need them.
I found the stories in this book to be very realistic where you have two families who have very different situations - both struggling to make ends meet, sometimes not knowing where the next meal is coming from.
I like how this author wrote this book including different people into each chapter, each struggling with their own issues, from the need to be wanted, to dealing with a serious life and death health problems.
I look forward to reading more of Bonnie's books and 'The Mountain Trails' series. Happy reading!
I found this book to be a 'punch in the gut' kind of story! Get the tissues out because you may need them.
I found the stories in this book to be very realistic where you have two families who have very different situations - both struggling to make ends meet, sometimes not knowing where the next meal is coming from.
I like how this author wrote this book including different people into each chapter, each struggling with their own issues, from the need to be wanted, to dealing with a serious life and death health problems.
I look forward to reading more of Bonnie's books and 'The Mountain Trails' series. Happy reading!
July 11, 2020
Not realistic
I enjoyed the book, but even in Montana they have food stamps and Medicaid. Being almost 21, Emma would not have qualified for her father's insurance unless she was a college student. She would have qualified on her own at 18 since she had no income. She would also get SSI. Also, Mate would have received Social Security family survivor benefits of at least $600 a month for each of his sisters. There would have been churches or agencies that would make sure a child cancer patient was well fed and nourished.
I enjoyed the book, but even in Montana they have food stamps and Medicaid. Being almost 21, Emma would not have qualified for her father's insurance unless she was a college student. She would have qualified on her own at 18 since she had no income. She would also get SSI. Also, Mate would have received Social Security family survivor benefits of at least $600 a month for each of his sisters. There would have been churches or agencies that would make sure a child cancer patient was well fed and nourished.
March 29, 2021
Heart's Mended
This is a good story about a couple of young people who have a past together. Emma is sick and has concluded she will never marry and have a family. Nate can't believe Emma is back in his life even for moments at a time, but He will take what he can get. This is an easy to read book and shows how love can push someone to care so much for another that they make some life changing decisions. I received this as a complimentary book and have chosen on my own to write an honest review.
This is a good story about a couple of young people who have a past together. Emma is sick and has concluded she will never marry and have a family. Nate can't believe Emma is back in his life even for moments at a time, but He will take what he can get. This is an easy to read book and shows how love can push someone to care so much for another that they make some life changing decisions. I received this as a complimentary book and have chosen on my own to write an honest review.
May 13, 2024
Hope for a stable and loving life
This is a story about hope and encouragement. When 2 people have had their complete love life turned upside down by tragedy, Nate's parents died and Emma has a serious health issue with a cancer diagnosis. The first love of the couple is all engrossing. They refused to give up on each other. I was very upset at her parents' attitude. They considered her a burden. Nate needed her so much that he accepted that the finances needed to meet her health needs became a journey that they went through together. ❤ The story is well written.
This is a story about hope and encouragement. When 2 people have had their complete love life turned upside down by tragedy, Nate's parents died and Emma has a serious health issue with a cancer diagnosis. The first love of the couple is all engrossing. They refused to give up on each other. I was very upset at her parents' attitude. They considered her a burden. Nate needed her so much that he accepted that the finances needed to meet her health needs became a journey that they went through together. ❤ The story is well written.
June 7, 2017
I thought this book was great! It shows that life isn't perfect all the time. Yes there is poverty in the world and illness. It shows that love it strong and will keep families together. I loved Nate's love for Emma and Emma loving him and didn't want to be a burden to him. It was what she heard all her life from her parents.It was wonderful how they banded together with Nate's sisters to form a tight family. I recommend this book to everyone.
I received a ARC of this book.
I received a ARC of this book.
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