Wildflowers is a historical western romance novel set along the Oregon Trail.
In 1848 Johanna Wade left her native Boston for Missouri to join her father's missionary party going to Oregon Territory. She didn't count on meeting the rough-hewn and handsome trail guide Ryan Majors. Danger and desire await Ryan and Johanna as they struggle with their pasts, work toward their future, and become converts to love.
Excerpt
"God you are beautiful." Ryan cupped her chin.
"Not like Evening Star."
Ryan lifted her chin. "More beautiful than a thousand evening stars...more than a field of wildflowers on a summer's day...more..."
She held up her hand. "Stop,
Mr. Majors," she said, with a soft chuckle. "Your words are kind, but..."
"True. Oh, I can't write fancy poetry like RM did. But tell me, Miss Wade, did your RM make you feel this way." He kissed her. A long, full-mouthed kiss that sent her head spinning, her heart racing, and left her breathless when his lips left hers.
No, she knew the truth; Robert McEntee loved her but never made her feel the way she did at this moment in Ryan's arms. She leaned against his chest for support, lest her own legs give way and she fall.
Ryan studied her a moment. "For all his learning, your precious RM must have been a damn fool! Yankees!" He shook his head. "Maybe we both learned a lesson today." He turned, lifted the carton, and headed down the path toward camp with a very puzzled and flustered Johanna trailing in his wake, her lips still damp from his kiss.
Professional Reviews
Fallen Angel Reviews
"Wildflowers is a magnificent tale that captures the whole essence of the American West. From hardships to Indians, to horse-covered wagons, this is a poignant tale that is full of spirit, dangers and life. From one man's vengeance, to a woman's love for a man, as she overcomes fate to tell her father whom she wishes to spend her time with, this story captivates. I applauded Ryan as he sought peace for his brother's family. I commended Johanna's resolve to stand on her own two feet and be the woman she feels she should be. Catherine Greenfeder crafts believable characters with unique characteristics that make the story feel genuine. The secondary characters spin a great part to the story, some with their own romances and events that make the story more in-depth. This is one incredible read that shouldn't be missed. I admired the strength and determination of all the characters and the great love that was shown throughout the bitter times."
Five Fallen Angels, Reviewed by Linda L.
Love Western Romance
"Ms. Greenfeder has written a wonderful, dynamic story, filled with rich, vibrant characters that keep me glued to the pages. The descriptive setting and true-to-life dialogue put me right there on the wagon trail with Johanna and Ryan. This is a book I'm sure to read again and again. I look forward to reading more from this talented storyteller."
Five Spurs, Reviewed by Crystal
Romantic Times
"Greenfeder's western romance is filled with the trials of settlers going west. The author pulls no punches, and the dangers are graphic to say the least, but very realistic for that era. The villain is a nasty piece of work; the heroine strong-willed; and the hero brash but lovable and a bit clueless when it comes to matters of the heart."
Four Stars, Reviewed by Faith V. Smith