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Alaskan Wilderness #1
Alaskan Hearts
Former Alaskan sled-dog musher Ben Grayson is still grieving the tragic loss of his dog team. So much that he put the reins—and his dreams—away.Now a photographer, Ben's covering the Gold Rush Trail sled-dog race. He's surprised his heart isn't more guarded around lovely journalist Clementine Phillips—until he learns that Clementine plans to handle a sled-dog team herself. Ben can't bear the thought of Clementine in danger.
So he comes up with a compromise—one to keep her close…forever.
So he comes up with a compromise—one to keep her close…forever.
218 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published May 22, 2012
11 people are currently reading
454 people want to read
About the author
Teri Wilson
208 books1,640 followersNew York Times Bestselling Author Teri Wilson writes heartwarming contemporary romance with a touch of whimsy. Four of Teri’s books have been adapted into Hallmark Channel Original Movies, including UNLEASHING MR. DARCY (plus its sequel MARRYING MR. DARCY), ROYAL-ISH, based on her book ONCE UPON A ROYAL SUMMER, THE ART OF US and NORTHERN LIGHTS OF CHRISTMAS, based on her book SLEIGH BELL SWEETHEARTS. She is also a recipient of the prestigious RITA Award for excellence in romantic fiction and a 2022 inductee into the San Antonio Women’s Hall of Fame.
When she’s not writing, Teri enjoys volunteering in her community with her Cavalier King Charles spaniel Charm, a registered therapy dog, reading education assistance dog and crisis emergency response canine. Teri is also a three-time volunteer at the Iditarod Trail Dog Sled Race in Alaska and has been active in conformation dog shows and performance events.
A cupcake enthusiast, Teri also loves Hallmark movies, barre classes, crocheting and taking her dogs out for pup cups. Visit her at www.teriwilson.net or on Instagram @teriwilsonauthor.
When she’s not writing, Teri enjoys volunteering in her community with her Cavalier King Charles spaniel Charm, a registered therapy dog, reading education assistance dog and crisis emergency response canine. Teri is also a three-time volunteer at the Iditarod Trail Dog Sled Race in Alaska and has been active in conformation dog shows and performance events.
A cupcake enthusiast, Teri also loves Hallmark movies, barre classes, crocheting and taking her dogs out for pup cups. Visit her at www.teriwilson.net or on Instagram @teriwilsonauthor.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews
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December 8, 2014
Things learned while reading Love Inspired’s “romance” novel Alaskan Hearts:
You must be blonde to be beautiful enough to date, or at least this is a penchant. Hmmm, I dunno about that, sounds off to me.
It’s okay to be a control-freak as long as you are acting in some-chick-you-just-met’s supposed best interest.
It is not at all off-putting to be a creepy stalker-type, apparently.
Diamond Dust:
Pretty right?! Does it look anything like stars?! No…. they do have stars in Texas don’t they, Ms. Wilson?
He could say whatever he wanted. As far as Clementine was concerned, Ben had kissed her and she saw stars.….. I love idiots, they are my favourite!
Let’s get a few things straight here… I can suspend my disbelief that you can just stroll your way up to Alaska and join the dog handling team for a competition, I don’t like it but I’ll accept it. I do, however, guarantee there would be more than one measly lesson on it, culminating in the great quip “If you fall, roll out of the way”. GENUIS! Whatever, suspended!, but you honestly expect me to believe that the same hotel that is hosting this event’s gift shop doesn’t have a dog leash OR anything more appropriate than a knitted scarf for huskie reigning in requirements?! Nope! Not believable, that’s complete rubbish I am NOT sold!
There is a reason I am choosing not to star-rate this story, and it is because I KNOW I am not the audience for this bible-thumping, anti-feministic garbage. That’s okay, I read it for the lolz!
And also this:
My face while reading one particularly cheesy religi-love smathering
March 16, 2019
It's easy to see why author, Teri Wilson is a fav for the Hallmark channel. Her books are visual, quirky, and fun.
Good clean read.
Good clean read.
January 20, 2026
My first book by this author and it won't be my last.
Great plotline, characters and setting
Great plotline, characters and setting
July 9, 2012
[2012-05-29] Arrived today! Will be in this weeks IML on my blog :-)
[2012-07-09] Finished this morning before going to work. I often read Mills&Boon/Harlequin books and recently caught up with some overdue reviews of some. I found I was writing the phrase "it ticked all the M&B boxes" quite a bit. I fully expected Alaskan Hearts to get the same sort of review.
Instead, I found a well written story that, whilst indeed ticking all thos M&B/H boxes (girl meets boy, they fall for one another, there are difficulties which when overcome means they can declare their undying love), contained so much more! This was a fully rounded story, with a good supportng cast and excellent background/surroundings/activities descriptions.
The front-and-centre Christian message may be off-putting to some readers, but I found it was ok as it stayed within the story; the author wasn't (at least not overtly!) trying to preach to the reader.
Thank you Terri for sending me this book, I shall look out for more of your work...and I will try adapting the blueberry muffin recipe to be gluten free...it sounds very tasty ;-)
[2012-07-09] Finished this morning before going to work. I often read Mills&Boon/Harlequin books and recently caught up with some overdue reviews of some. I found I was writing the phrase "it ticked all the M&B boxes" quite a bit. I fully expected Alaskan Hearts to get the same sort of review.
Instead, I found a well written story that, whilst indeed ticking all thos M&B/H boxes (girl meets boy, they fall for one another, there are difficulties which when overcome means they can declare their undying love), contained so much more! This was a fully rounded story, with a good supportng cast and excellent background/surroundings/activities descriptions.
The front-and-centre Christian message may be off-putting to some readers, but I found it was ok as it stayed within the story; the author wasn't (at least not overtly!) trying to preach to the reader.
Thank you Terri for sending me this book, I shall look out for more of your work...and I will try adapting the blueberry muffin recipe to be gluten free...it sounds very tasty ;-)
June 10, 2012
An adorable romance novel that had me laughing, crying, and wishing I could go to Alaska.
June 18, 2012
Alaska is brought to life.
October 26, 2025
I really liked this one.
October 23, 2020
Reviewing this for what it is, it’s a great book! People come here acting like it’s supposed to be the next great American novel. It is to books what hallmark is to movies, a cliche and predictable feel-good story that isn’t trying to be anything else. And that’s what makes it great! We live in a hard enough world and it feels good to spend a few hours in a world where you know no matter happens it all works out, especially when it also encourages your faith in doing so!
I can’t decide if this is my favorite Love Inspired book or not. I just started reading them again for the first time since high school & don’t remember any of what I read before, so it’s just this and the accidental blessings series so far, but dang. I do love this couple! And the use of John 10:10 in this book got me curious, so I looked up the original Greek for it. The Greek word for life in this verse is Zoe, meaning physical here life and spiritual future life. Basically, that means Jesus really was saying, “Live life. Have fun. Go on an adventure. Trust me.” And I love that!
I can’t decide if this is my favorite Love Inspired book or not. I just started reading them again for the first time since high school & don’t remember any of what I read before, so it’s just this and the accidental blessings series so far, but dang. I do love this couple! And the use of John 10:10 in this book got me curious, so I looked up the original Greek for it. The Greek word for life in this verse is Zoe, meaning physical here life and spiritual future life. Basically, that means Jesus really was saying, “Live life. Have fun. Go on an adventure. Trust me.” And I love that!
November 14, 2021
This was adorable, romantic, funny, and full of cute dogs. I’ve always enjoyed Teri Wilson’s writing, so figured I should go back and read her first series! Basically this is a Hallmark movie in a book, which I love. She’s so good at writing that kind of story!
My only nitpick is that I felt like a lot of the Scripture references were taken out of context so as to be able to move the plot forward. There were also some genuine faith moments in the story, which was nice, but I didn’t appreciate all the cherry-picking of Scripture the characters did throughout, implying meaning for their situations that wasn’t meant from the original context of the verses.
My only nitpick is that I felt like a lot of the Scripture references were taken out of context so as to be able to move the plot forward. There were also some genuine faith moments in the story, which was nice, but I didn’t appreciate all the cherry-picking of Scripture the characters did throughout, implying meaning for their situations that wasn’t meant from the original context of the verses.
July 7, 2020
I started this book because I was searching 'mushing' and 'dog sled' on Hoopla. I finished it, and promptly got the rest of the Alaskan Wilderness series, because Teri Wilson is a top notch author!
I was transported to Alaska the moment I opened the book. On the sled with Ben and Clementine. I felt their joy. I tasted the coffee! And was thrilled with the excitement of learning how to care for a team. A quiet romance set under the northern lights. The moment where Ben gets his sign from God... breathtaking.
Definitely one of my all time favorites. Looking for a copy!!!
I was transported to Alaska the moment I opened the book. On the sled with Ben and Clementine. I felt their joy. I tasted the coffee! And was thrilled with the excitement of learning how to care for a team. A quiet romance set under the northern lights. The moment where Ben gets his sign from God... breathtaking.
Definitely one of my all time favorites. Looking for a copy!!!
September 2, 2021
3-1/2 stars
Cute & spunky heroine on her first Alaskan adventure, hunky bearded former Alaskan dog-sled musher, a cute little pomeranian named Nugget & a lot of Alaskan Huskies, as well as several enjoyable secondary characters. All the makings of a Hallmark movie (which 3 of this authors books have already been made into), with some Christian inspiration woven throughout the story.
A quick, fun, clean romance.
Cute & spunky heroine on her first Alaskan adventure, hunky bearded former Alaskan dog-sled musher, a cute little pomeranian named Nugget & a lot of Alaskan Huskies, as well as several enjoyable secondary characters. All the makings of a Hallmark movie (which 3 of this authors books have already been made into), with some Christian inspiration woven throughout the story.
A quick, fun, clean romance.
September 16, 2019
This book is stunning, and I would love for it to become a Hallmark movie. I'd love to go to Anya's coffee shop and have her make one of her decadent drinks for me and sit outside under the stars and drink coffee and watch the Northern Lights. If you're a dog lover, you will enjoy this book.
July 21, 2025
Sweet story about a journalist joining the Gold Rush Trail sled dog race team and Ben a former racer who lost most of his dogs. This was a good story especially with Ben kind of coming back to his faith after losing it after the accident.
July 7, 2017
Loved the characters and the setting. Made me want to visit Alaska. Heartwarming story about Ben and his dog team and how Clementine brings his back to life.
July 11, 2018
Cute story but I found it boring
January 18, 2019
Very predictable and very fun read. Makes me homesick!
September 4, 2019
I actually cried
December 5, 2019
Made me want to go to Alaska. Very good story. Funny and sad but always good
May 23, 2023
A very sweet story. I hate being cold, but I still almost want to visit Alaska now... Almost.
December 8, 2023
A great love story set in Alaska, however it had heavy Christian vibes throughout and lots of bible references.
January 28, 2026
I’ve read several Love Inspired books, and this one is my favorite so far. The author does a wonderful job setting the atmosphere. I truly felt like I’d traveled to Alaska by the time I finished the book.
The romance between Ben and Clementine feels natural, and the story beautifully weaves together love, faith, and a sense of adventure.
I’m definitely looking forward to reading the next book in the series.
The romance between Ben and Clementine feels natural, and the story beautifully weaves together love, faith, and a sense of adventure.
I’m definitely looking forward to reading the next book in the series.
September 12, 2022
I loved this book because the plot wasn't shallow! So many "modern" or "contemporary" romances are borinnnnnng! There's no good plot.
In this case, the characters are lovable, smart, and there's a huge theme of the husky dog races! The author wrote dog sledding and the whole theme of the races in extremely well! The romance part was actually great (unlike some other authors that the Harlequin Love Inspired picks) and wasn't rushed at all!
This was just so fun to read!
In this case, the characters are lovable, smart, and there's a huge theme of the husky dog races! The author wrote dog sledding and the whole theme of the races in extremely well! The romance part was actually great (unlike some other authors that the Harlequin Love Inspired picks) and wasn't rushed at all!
This was just so fun to read!
May 30, 2012
I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full. – John 10:10
Clementine Phillips has claimed this promise as her own, & is bursting with excitement at her new assignment. Clementine works for Nature World magazine in Texas looking over photographs day in, day out. Now her boss has sent her on a research assignment in Alaska to learn how to become a sled dog handler for the Gold Rush Trail. This is what she came here to do, & no one is going to dissuade her from her dream – even handsome & rugged Alaskan Ben Grayston who wants her to take a less dangerous part in the race.
Ben Grayston is captivated by Clementine from the 1st moment when she slips on the ice & into his arms. A former sled dog musher, Ben is now a photographer covering the Gold Rush Trail sled dog race. He can’t believe how much Clementine affects his heart – nor can he believe her declaration that she is going to be a sled dog handler. He fears she is going to get herself killed. But Clementine’s zest for life & love for the Lord start to warm a place in his heart...a place that has been numb for a long time with grieving the loss of his dogs, & loss of his faith. With 4 lost years behind him, Ben comes to know the truth of Joel 2: 28 as the Lord repays him for the years the locusts have eaten...& it started the day he met Clementine.
I loved this fun, action & faith filled romance which sparkled throughout the book, & I really appreciated how Teri has very naturally woven Scripture into the story. I loved Clementine with her thirst for life & love for the Lord bubbling out through the pages; I ached for Ben who was grieving the past; I enjoyed Nugget (a Pomeranian), Kodiak, Akiak & Moose (Alaskan huskies). This is the 1st book I’ve read by Teri Wilson, but I shall be looking out for more.
I received this book for free through Goodreads First Reads. I was not required to write a positive review – the review comes from my heart.
Clementine Phillips has claimed this promise as her own, & is bursting with excitement at her new assignment. Clementine works for Nature World magazine in Texas looking over photographs day in, day out. Now her boss has sent her on a research assignment in Alaska to learn how to become a sled dog handler for the Gold Rush Trail. This is what she came here to do, & no one is going to dissuade her from her dream – even handsome & rugged Alaskan Ben Grayston who wants her to take a less dangerous part in the race.
Ben Grayston is captivated by Clementine from the 1st moment when she slips on the ice & into his arms. A former sled dog musher, Ben is now a photographer covering the Gold Rush Trail sled dog race. He can’t believe how much Clementine affects his heart – nor can he believe her declaration that she is going to be a sled dog handler. He fears she is going to get herself killed. But Clementine’s zest for life & love for the Lord start to warm a place in his heart...a place that has been numb for a long time with grieving the loss of his dogs, & loss of his faith. With 4 lost years behind him, Ben comes to know the truth of Joel 2: 28 as the Lord repays him for the years the locusts have eaten...& it started the day he met Clementine.
I loved this fun, action & faith filled romance which sparkled throughout the book, & I really appreciated how Teri has very naturally woven Scripture into the story. I loved Clementine with her thirst for life & love for the Lord bubbling out through the pages; I ached for Ben who was grieving the past; I enjoyed Nugget (a Pomeranian), Kodiak, Akiak & Moose (Alaskan huskies). This is the 1st book I’ve read by Teri Wilson, but I shall be looking out for more.
I received this book for free through Goodreads First Reads. I was not required to write a positive review – the review comes from my heart.
July 21, 2016
I loved this romance,the characters and the dogs! The dogs in the story made me smile,except one time, when one was injured in an accident and it made me sad. I liked how the dogs were always treated with respect and lots of love. Clementine's character was so funny at times, I found myself laughing out loud. However,on the serious side, I admired the way she lived her life by a very strong faith in God,courage,and love. Ben was very deep in his grieving,to the point that he lost faith in himself, God,and others. Yet,he was transformed when he met Clementine, and his transformation was awesome! I enjoyed learning about the Sled Dog races in Alaska. I thought it was funny how Clementine reacted to the weather in Alaska,since she lived in Houston,Texas, and I live in Texas,I felt for her,lol.
I would recommend this book, it was awesome!
I would recommend this book, it was awesome!
October 18, 2012
Alaskan Hearts is a heartwarming story about finding yourself, even if Clementine has to travel from Texas to Alaska to accomplish that life-changing task. Teri Wilson writes rich characters that must look deep to find their direction and become whole so they can be each other’s perfect match. The presence of the dogs was a natural extension of Ben’s and Clementine’s lives and added both humorous and poignant touches. The details and descriptions of Alaska added another layer to the story in a way that I felt like I’d traveled there myself. I look forward to Ms. Wilson’s next story.
July 26, 2015
The Alaskan Wilderness
Book 1
Alaskan Hearts was such a wonderful story! The chemistry between Clementine and Ben was great from the first chapter. I liked that the couple were allowed to have a healthy, developing romance.
Ben's story was such a sad one. The author did so good tugging at my heartstrings as I watched Ben mourn and Clementine hurt for him. I found myself attached to every word of this book and could hardly stop reading.
Looking forward to reading more by this author!
Book 1
Alaskan Hearts was such a wonderful story! The chemistry between Clementine and Ben was great from the first chapter. I liked that the couple were allowed to have a healthy, developing romance.
Ben's story was such a sad one. The author did so good tugging at my heartstrings as I watched Ben mourn and Clementine hurt for him. I found myself attached to every word of this book and could hardly stop reading.
Looking forward to reading more by this author!
July 23, 2015
Loved It!! This is my first time reading Teri's work but I love the way she does it! The characters are well developed and easy to become attached. The situation is real to life and I absolutely loves the way she testifies of God's love for us and the Lord's power and concern for us! I received new testimonies of Heavenly Father's love for me and enjoyed discovering new scriptures I can apply to my life! Well done Teri!
October 17, 2012
Every once and a while you stumble across a book that, while you're reading it, you wish more than anything that you were reading your personal journal instead of a work of fiction. This book spoke to my heart in so many ways it's ridiculous! Absolutely loved it 100% and I want to curl up in a ball and cry because it's over.
June 14, 2012
I picked up this book because of the cover and Alaska setting. Despite being an inspirational romance, it was not preachy or overbearing in that regard. I enjoyed learning about the world of dog sledding and found the book heartwarming.
October 31, 2015
ALASKAN HEARTS by Teri Wilson, is a sweet romance between Clementine Phillips, who has never been anywhere but her cubicle at the magazine where she works, and Ben Grayson, a photographer who used to be a sled-dog racer. Faith, hope and love truly work miracles as this story evolves.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews