Of Peaks and Prairies (Paradise Valley Book 1)

I would say this is every woman’s nightmare being forced to marry a man you can’t stand who has nothing going for him. What a start to what looks to be an outstanding series. This is one story that the author weaves you a wonderful plot of being on the run with danger all around you as you travel across the plains with Indians who just might want a piece of your skin along with your husband and stepfather hot on your trail. This is one author that always gives you an exciting read as you set on the edge wondering what will take place next. This is a story that will keep you up late at night as you get so caught up on all the twists and turns. It was so nice to get an update on the past characters that you have come to love as well as new ones you will love.My heart went out to Genevieve losing her whole family and having to live with the evil stepfather who did not care for her. Her life was hard and rough which made her strong. She is such a sweet lady who gives so much of herself only to have herself be given away in marriage to a man even more evil then her stepfather. I cheered for her when she ran pushing her the whole way as my heart was in my mouth a time or two when things got a little hairy wondering what the outcome would be.Thomas is a man’s man with his honorable cowboy ways you are going to fall for him right away. From the first look he was taken in by Genevieve even when he knew he shouldn’t he still wanted her. He is a driven man trying to make his father proud. I wish I would know if he was but I am guessing that will come along as the series goes on. His life hasn’t been the easiest either not being the number one son always trying to do what was needed but just never good enough. His men come first and then his cattle. He overcomes every turn with class as he tries to get his cattle to their new home.I loved the pull and tug of war between these two. This is a story about learning to trust, giving ones heart as the author puts together a wonderful story that will keep you turning the pages. This was a thrilling exciting read I could not put down. I couldn’t wait to see what would happen next. It is really a wonderful heartwarming read that makes you wish you could be part of it. These characters become family as you watch them try to do the best they can. This is one author who pulls you in making you smile and almost cry. You are so going to love this author and her stories. Come pick up one of her books and be taken back to the west where not everything is as it seems with man who knew how to be men giving back to the land and their women.

Genevieve Waters was coerced to the altar by an older, mean-fisted man residing across the road from the house where Genny and her stepfather lived. Genny's stepfather colluded with his drinking buddy and neighbor. When the two men went into the saloon to celebrate the marriage, Genny found an empty wagon to hide in to avoid the men.Thomas O'Reilly has a troubled backstory, and he's taking 3000 longhorns from Texas to his ranch in Montana Territory. He's horrified when he finds a stowaway in his chuck wagon and promptly sends her back. However, Genny knows she has no future back in Fort Worth, and she trails the herd until nightfall and climbs back in the wagon.This is a well-written story with lots happening. Genny's husband and stepfather come looking for her, but Thomas denies ever seeing the young woman. There are Indians, Jaywalkers, weather, and a troublesome cowboy to cause havoc on the trip north.

This was a lovely story of heartbreak, secrets, and a happy ending. Love is a terrible thing to feel for someone, knowing it can never be fulfilled. But a true love is very hard to be denied, even when a forced marriage stands in the way. Adventures on a long cattle drive only bring Ginny and Thomas closer to the fulfillment of their dream to just be together! Enjoy!

I enjoyed this emotional story that showed courage, determination, commitment, and faithfulness. Genevieve Waters-Ewing is a pawn used by her unscrupulous stepfather and unwillingly married to another. There is no love, only fear, and repulsion. Genny knows she has to get away, far away and she hides in the back of a chuck wagon, not even caring where it is going. Thomas O’Reilly has worked hard to prove himself, making an excellent fortune in gold, buying a thousand acre spread in Paradise Valley Montana, he has gone to Texas and taking back a large herd of longhorn cattle.The plot has a young man determined to make a good living ranching in Montana, he cares about the people he has hired to help him, and expects loyalty from them. What he doesn’t count on is a stowaway with secrets. What makes Tom take a chance and protect this young woman? She won’t tell him the full story, but he can sense deep down that she is hiding something important. The story is an adventure with cowboys, Indians, cattle rustlers, life and death moments, reunions, and new beginnings. It is fun to see Sarah and Bill who join Tom’s group and even if you didn’t read their story from Cutters’ Creek, you could follow this story without issues. There is a great cast of characters, a well-developed story with emotional and entertaining dialog and moments.

The story starts with a stowaway in the chuck wagon. Thomas is getting ready to lead the cattle drive to Montana from Texas. There are plenty of surprises and dangers along the way. Winter is fast approaching. Will they get there before the snows begin?

This book wasn't terribly bad but it also wasn't terribly good. The characters were shallow but still likeable. However, the plot was quite predictable and convenient with the phrasing and transitioning being rather stilted. The heroines hang-up about being "married" wasn't really a huge issue in that time and place - people often just left their failing relationships and began anew (even Wyatt Earp did it). And I couldn't get past the author's sloppy references to the hero's upbringing on a "ranch" in Ohio; my family has lived in that area for two centuries and I can assure the author that a large agricultural establishment in Ohio was (and still is) called a "farm". I do not recommend this book and will not read other of this author;s works.

Loved this book. Could not put it down. Thank you for sharing your talent! Can not wait to start the next book! Happy reading

Not much has changed for some women today also goes to show what the people of the time had to go through to get from from part of America to another part America.Loved the story

Good Light read.

The story was very well written and as I had already read about Sara Songan it was good to catch up with her and Bill. There was plenty of action. Yes I would recommend it to other who enjoy a story with lots of action

Not entirely original with a bride escaping from a marriage that she was forced into, however the story following the story of how Genny and Thomas grow together as they drive the herd to their new home is worthy enough. A loose link to the Cutter's Creek series, one of my favourites in the genre, added to my enjoyment.