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The Trail of Lost Hearts
New York Times bestselling author Tracey Garvis Graves takes readers on a life affirming journey, where two lost souls find the unexpected courage to love again.
Thirty-four-year-old Wren Waters believes that if you pay attention, the universe will send you exactly what you need. But her worldview shatters when the universe delivers two life-altering blows she didn’t see coming, and all she wants to do is put the whole heartbreaking mess behind her. No one is more surprised than Wren when she discovers that geocaching―the outdoor activity of using GPS to look for hidden objects―is the only thing getting her out of bed and out of her head. She decides that a weeklong solo quest geocaching in Oregon is exactly what she needs to take back control of her life.
Enter Marshall Hendricks, a psychologist searching for distraction as he struggles with a life-altering blow of his own. Though Wren initially rebuffs Marshall’s attempt at hiker small talk, she’s beyond grateful when he rescues her from a horrifying encounter farther down the trail. In the interest of safety, Marshall suggests partnering up to look for additional caches. Wren’s no longer quite so trusting of the universe―or men in general―but her inner circle might argue that a smart, charismatic psychologist isn’t the worst thing the universe could place in her path.
What begins as a platonic road trip gradually blossoms into something deeper, and the more Wren learns about Marshall, the more she wants to know. Now all she can do is hope that the universe gets it right this time.
Thirty-four-year-old Wren Waters believes that if you pay attention, the universe will send you exactly what you need. But her worldview shatters when the universe delivers two life-altering blows she didn’t see coming, and all she wants to do is put the whole heartbreaking mess behind her. No one is more surprised than Wren when she discovers that geocaching―the outdoor activity of using GPS to look for hidden objects―is the only thing getting her out of bed and out of her head. She decides that a weeklong solo quest geocaching in Oregon is exactly what she needs to take back control of her life.
Enter Marshall Hendricks, a psychologist searching for distraction as he struggles with a life-altering blow of his own. Though Wren initially rebuffs Marshall’s attempt at hiker small talk, she’s beyond grateful when he rescues her from a horrifying encounter farther down the trail. In the interest of safety, Marshall suggests partnering up to look for additional caches. Wren’s no longer quite so trusting of the universe―or men in general―but her inner circle might argue that a smart, charismatic psychologist isn’t the worst thing the universe could place in her path.
What begins as a platonic road trip gradually blossoms into something deeper, and the more Wren learns about Marshall, the more she wants to know. Now all she can do is hope that the universe gets it right this time.
287 pages, Hardcover
First published March 26, 2024
68 people are currently reading
23470 people want to read
About the author
Tracey Garvis Graves
11 books6,763 followersTracey Garvis Graves is the New York Times, Wall Street Journal, and USA Today bestselling author of contemporary fiction. Her debut novel, On the Island, spent 9 weeks on the New York Times bestseller list, has been translated into thirty-six languages, and is in development for a feature film. She is also the author of Uncharted, Covet, Every Time I Think of You, Cherish, Heart-Shaped Hack, White-Hot Hack, The Girl He Used to Know, Heard It in a Love Song, and The Trail of Lost Hearts. She is hard at work on her next book.
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January 15, 2024
Can two people with wounded hearts be better together?
Wren Waters is adrift in her grief after a couple life-altering events that have shattered her trust in men. With prodding from her best friend, she finally gets back out into the world and discovers a love for geocaching.*
During a solo geocaching trip to Oregon, Wren meets Marshall Hendricks, a kind and handsome psychologist and fellow geocacher who comes to her rescue in a dangerous moment. When he suggests they team up on their quests for the week, she finally agrees. She doesn’t know that Marshall is also grieving a major loss. Perhaps fate has brought them together?
As they get to know one another and Wren shares more about what’s happened to her, she finds a sympathetic and supportive friend in Marshall and a small spark of hope for the future. Unfortunately, the more she opens up and talks about her grief, the more Marshall seems to shut down about his.
As they grow closer, will Marshall ever let his guard down about his past? Furthermore, can they realistically have a future together? I’ll just say that things get very complicated on the path to those answers, but I enjoyed their journey!
This is my first read by Tracey Garvis Graves and it was such a touching and sweet story! It highlighted grief and healing in a way that felt genuine, which made me care for both Wren and Marshall. Their relationship was believable, and it was so refreshing to see two MCs with flaws and vulnerabilities. Their journey was messier, but also more relatable than a typical romance. I also liked that they were in their mid-thirties, which gave the story a welcome maturity.
My one and only complaint is that the dialogue occasionally felt oddly formal and unnatural to how people actually talk. This has happened for me before in books by Isabelle Allende and Jodi Picoult, where the author has important ideas they want to share about certain topics - in this case grief - but it sounds like exposition on that topic being awkwardly forced into dialogue. Thankfully, MOST of the time that wasn’t the case - it just stood out when it was.
All in all, I really liked this and would gladly read another book by this author! I recommend this to those who enjoy a gentle romance with emotional heft, and who don’t mind a little open-door spice!
★★★★
Thanks to St. Martin’s Press, NetGalley and author Tracey Garvis Graves for this digital ARC to honestly review. It’s due to be published on March 26, 2024.
***********************************
*Geocaching is an outdoor activity that involves using an app and GPS coordinates to locate caches of hidden items.
Wren Waters is adrift in her grief after a couple life-altering events that have shattered her trust in men. With prodding from her best friend, she finally gets back out into the world and discovers a love for geocaching.*
During a solo geocaching trip to Oregon, Wren meets Marshall Hendricks, a kind and handsome psychologist and fellow geocacher who comes to her rescue in a dangerous moment. When he suggests they team up on their quests for the week, she finally agrees. She doesn’t know that Marshall is also grieving a major loss. Perhaps fate has brought them together?
As they get to know one another and Wren shares more about what’s happened to her, she finds a sympathetic and supportive friend in Marshall and a small spark of hope for the future. Unfortunately, the more she opens up and talks about her grief, the more Marshall seems to shut down about his.
As they grow closer, will Marshall ever let his guard down about his past? Furthermore, can they realistically have a future together? I’ll just say that things get very complicated on the path to those answers, but I enjoyed their journey!
This is my first read by Tracey Garvis Graves and it was such a touching and sweet story! It highlighted grief and healing in a way that felt genuine, which made me care for both Wren and Marshall. Their relationship was believable, and it was so refreshing to see two MCs with flaws and vulnerabilities. Their journey was messier, but also more relatable than a typical romance. I also liked that they were in their mid-thirties, which gave the story a welcome maturity.
My one and only complaint is that the dialogue occasionally felt oddly formal and unnatural to how people actually talk. This has happened for me before in books by Isabelle Allende and Jodi Picoult, where the author has important ideas they want to share about certain topics - in this case grief - but it sounds like exposition on that topic being awkwardly forced into dialogue. Thankfully, MOST of the time that wasn’t the case - it just stood out when it was.
All in all, I really liked this and would gladly read another book by this author! I recommend this to those who enjoy a gentle romance with emotional heft, and who don’t mind a little open-door spice!
★★★★
Thanks to St. Martin’s Press, NetGalley and author Tracey Garvis Graves for this digital ARC to honestly review. It’s due to be published on March 26, 2024.
***********************************
*Geocaching is an outdoor activity that involves using an app and GPS coordinates to locate caches of hidden items.
March 26, 2024
Wren Waters believes that if you PAY ATTENTION, the universe will send you exactly what you need.
But she definitely didn’t need the two back to back blows that she DID NOT see coming!
Her friend Suzanne insists that she has wallowed in her grief long enough and that it’s now time to get dressed and leave the apartment to join her on a hike. It’s one that will inadvertently introduce her to geocaching―the outdoor activity of using GPS to search for hidden objects.
It’s addicting, and soon after this “discovery” Wren decides that a weeklong solo quest geocaching in Oregon might be EXACTLY what she needs to move forward.
Marshall Hendricks, is another solo geocacher on the trail, battling his own demons. Wren initially rebuffs Marshall’s attempt at “small talk” but she’s beyond thankful when he rescues her from a terrifying encounter farther down the trail.
He suggests that they team up, as they look for additional caches, and though she has lost her trust in men, she has to concede that it’s probably the wise choice to make, in the interest of safety. It also turns out to be a very therapeutic choice-for them both.
Did the universe send her what she needed this time?
She’s definitely PAYING ATTENTION now…
Tracey Garvis Graves writes wonderful women’s fiction. It’s mature, it’s introspective and it tends to bring a tear to your eye, as you near the book’s conclusion! Her characters feel like people you might meet in your own life because they do things you do-like share a pizza 🍕-and think the things that you might think.
I spent a year living in Lake Oswego, OR, (Portland area) so, I was able to picture the gorgeous sites they visited on their hikes, but this one may have gotten a little bit too heavy on the “therapy talk” for me.
Despite that, she is now “three for three for me” so, I am always glad when I see that she is releasing a new book!
And how about that adorable book cover? ❤️
AVAILABLE NOW!!
A buddy read with Sheyla! Be sure to watch for her amazing review!
Thank You to St. Martin’s Press for the gifted ARC provided through NetGalley. It was my pleasure to offer a candid review!
But she definitely didn’t need the two back to back blows that she DID NOT see coming!
Her friend Suzanne insists that she has wallowed in her grief long enough and that it’s now time to get dressed and leave the apartment to join her on a hike. It’s one that will inadvertently introduce her to geocaching―the outdoor activity of using GPS to search for hidden objects.
It’s addicting, and soon after this “discovery” Wren decides that a weeklong solo quest geocaching in Oregon might be EXACTLY what she needs to move forward.
Marshall Hendricks, is another solo geocacher on the trail, battling his own demons. Wren initially rebuffs Marshall’s attempt at “small talk” but she’s beyond thankful when he rescues her from a terrifying encounter farther down the trail.
He suggests that they team up, as they look for additional caches, and though she has lost her trust in men, she has to concede that it’s probably the wise choice to make, in the interest of safety. It also turns out to be a very therapeutic choice-for them both.
Did the universe send her what she needed this time?
She’s definitely PAYING ATTENTION now…
Tracey Garvis Graves writes wonderful women’s fiction. It’s mature, it’s introspective and it tends to bring a tear to your eye, as you near the book’s conclusion! Her characters feel like people you might meet in your own life because they do things you do-like share a pizza 🍕-and think the things that you might think.
I spent a year living in Lake Oswego, OR, (Portland area) so, I was able to picture the gorgeous sites they visited on their hikes, but this one may have gotten a little bit too heavy on the “therapy talk” for me.
Despite that, she is now “three for three for me” so, I am always glad when I see that she is releasing a new book!
And how about that adorable book cover? ❤️
AVAILABLE NOW!!
A buddy read with Sheyla! Be sure to watch for her amazing review!
Thank You to St. Martin’s Press for the gifted ARC provided through NetGalley. It was my pleasure to offer a candid review!
March 26, 2024
"The heart wants what it wants, and hope is one hell of a drug."
*Happy Pub Day** Still thinking about this book months later.
The Trail of Lost Hearts is my fourth book by Tracey Garvis Graves. The first two, On the Island and its novella Uncharted, were amazing five star reads for me. (Seriously add them to your tbr stat!) So much so that I started buying her backlog and couldn't wait to read them all. I began with The Girl He Used to Know but it just didn't do it for me. Like to the point I was like are we sure this is the same author?! I was hesitant to try more but the blurb for this book really caught my attention so I decided to give it another go. So glad I did! This one is a winner!
Wren Waters has been dealt some earth shattering news & is having a bit of an eat pray love moment and can't get off the grid, and as far from reality as possible, quick enough. She has picked Oregon and geocaching as a means to leave it all behind and test her limits. Solo. It doesn't take long for things to go haywire when she encounters two men who seem to be on the hunt for much more than a cache in the middle of nowhere. Enter Marshall Hendricks. Marshall is also running from grief, also geocaching, and just so happens to be in the right place at the right time. A knight in khaki hiking pants, if you will. The two quickly bond over their similar situations and decide to turn their individual solo trips into a week long buddy adventure. In doing so Wren slowly feels herself healing...and Marshall becoming more closed off. But the undeniable connection is there. Can these two help heal each other or is some pain so deep that it can't be healed without hurting others in the process?
This book packs punch after punch of emotional blows, but somehow remains positive and hopeful in the process. I felt like the pacing was perfect. Nothing felt forced or over the top dramatic. Just two lost hearts looking for a soft place to land...and heal. The story is told primarily by Wren so I was excited when we got a glimpse of Marshall's POV, via electronic correspondence. Despite her vulnerability Wren comes across as so strong and no nonsense. I love that she wasn't a damsel in distress. Thank you to Netgalley, Macmillan Audio and St. Martin's Press for an advanced copy in exchange for my honest review. 4 adventure filled, emotional, raw, hopeful stars
Publishing March 26 2024
*Happy Pub Day** Still thinking about this book months later.
The Trail of Lost Hearts is my fourth book by Tracey Garvis Graves. The first two, On the Island and its novella Uncharted, were amazing five star reads for me. (Seriously add them to your tbr stat!) So much so that I started buying her backlog and couldn't wait to read them all. I began with The Girl He Used to Know but it just didn't do it for me. Like to the point I was like are we sure this is the same author?! I was hesitant to try more but the blurb for this book really caught my attention so I decided to give it another go. So glad I did! This one is a winner!
Wren Waters has been dealt some earth shattering news & is having a bit of an eat pray love moment and can't get off the grid, and as far from reality as possible, quick enough. She has picked Oregon and geocaching as a means to leave it all behind and test her limits. Solo. It doesn't take long for things to go haywire when she encounters two men who seem to be on the hunt for much more than a cache in the middle of nowhere. Enter Marshall Hendricks. Marshall is also running from grief, also geocaching, and just so happens to be in the right place at the right time. A knight in khaki hiking pants, if you will. The two quickly bond over their similar situations and decide to turn their individual solo trips into a week long buddy adventure. In doing so Wren slowly feels herself healing...and Marshall becoming more closed off. But the undeniable connection is there. Can these two help heal each other or is some pain so deep that it can't be healed without hurting others in the process?
This book packs punch after punch of emotional blows, but somehow remains positive and hopeful in the process. I felt like the pacing was perfect. Nothing felt forced or over the top dramatic. Just two lost hearts looking for a soft place to land...and heal. The story is told primarily by Wren so I was excited when we got a glimpse of Marshall's POV, via electronic correspondence. Despite her vulnerability Wren comes across as so strong and no nonsense. I love that she wasn't a damsel in distress. Thank you to Netgalley, Macmillan Audio and St. Martin's Press for an advanced copy in exchange for my honest review. 4 adventure filled, emotional, raw, hopeful stars
Publishing March 26 2024
Read
June 26, 2023To my readers:
I never quite know what to say when I write a review for a book that I've written (without getting too spoiler-y). But what I can say is that it's so much easier to connect with a character's storyline if I can convince you to care about them. Based on feedback from early readers, Marshall and Wren are likable characters who are so very easy to cheer for. The heartache they each bring into the story is significant, but the characters use their heads and their hearts to deal with it in a way that is realistic and heartwarming. You'll laugh and you'll cry with this one.
Wren is thirty-four. She's perceptive and smart, but when the story begins, she doesn't believe that she's either of those things. Watching Wren figure out her worth and gain back the confidence she somehow lost along the way was one of my favorite things about writing this book. The way she changes and grows felt so empowering. An early reader thanked me for writing a mature female lead, which was a wonderful comment to receive because the stories I gravitate toward the most have characters who behave in a way that reflects their age and the stage of life they're in. Wren and Marshall are both full-grown adults and they conduct themselves accordingly.
Marshall is thirty-six, and writing a hero who also happens to be a psychologist allowed for all kinds of interesting things to happen with the issue of communication, which really grew the spark of my initial idea into a flame. Wren and Marshall are strangers when the book begins, and their communication and the things they share are a lot like peeling an onion (and one character can be peeled with more ease than the other).
Near the end of the story, Marshall wonders what the odds are that two people would find each other on a random trail on a Monday morning in Oregon. According to Wren -- who believes that the universe sends the people we need most in our lives -- they were pretty darn good.
Lastly, for you OG readers -- I'm dying for you to spot the On the Island Easter egg in this book. Maybe it's too hard because no one has found it yet.
Thank you to everyone who adds The Trail of Lost Hearts to their shelves. I can't wait to share this story with you!
I never quite know what to say when I write a review for a book that I've written (without getting too spoiler-y). But what I can say is that it's so much easier to connect with a character's storyline if I can convince you to care about them. Based on feedback from early readers, Marshall and Wren are likable characters who are so very easy to cheer for. The heartache they each bring into the story is significant, but the characters use their heads and their hearts to deal with it in a way that is realistic and heartwarming. You'll laugh and you'll cry with this one.
Wren is thirty-four. She's perceptive and smart, but when the story begins, she doesn't believe that she's either of those things. Watching Wren figure out her worth and gain back the confidence she somehow lost along the way was one of my favorite things about writing this book. The way she changes and grows felt so empowering. An early reader thanked me for writing a mature female lead, which was a wonderful comment to receive because the stories I gravitate toward the most have characters who behave in a way that reflects their age and the stage of life they're in. Wren and Marshall are both full-grown adults and they conduct themselves accordingly.
Marshall is thirty-six, and writing a hero who also happens to be a psychologist allowed for all kinds of interesting things to happen with the issue of communication, which really grew the spark of my initial idea into a flame. Wren and Marshall are strangers when the book begins, and their communication and the things they share are a lot like peeling an onion (and one character can be peeled with more ease than the other).
Near the end of the story, Marshall wonders what the odds are that two people would find each other on a random trail on a Monday morning in Oregon. According to Wren -- who believes that the universe sends the people we need most in our lives -- they were pretty darn good.
Lastly, for you OG readers -- I'm dying for you to spot the On the Island Easter egg in this book. Maybe it's too hard because no one has found it yet.
Thank you to everyone who adds The Trail of Lost Hearts to their shelves. I can't wait to share this story with you!
March 22, 2024
Get ready for a heart-wrenching, earth-shattering roller coaster with Wren and Marshall that will take your emotions on a wild ride! Grab your napkins and tissues, my friends, because this tear-jerking, angsty love story is about to unleash a torrent of ugly tears that you won't be able to hold back. Brace yourself, because this story has the power to shake you to your core!
Meet Wren Waters, a thirty-four-year-old who seeks solace in the art of geocaching during her hikes. Armed with a geocache app and a determination to find hidden objects, this is her lifeline, pulling her out of bed each day and diverting her mind from the recent loss of her fiancé in a tragic car accident. The same man who shattered her beliefs in happily ever afters, trust, and honesty.
However, her hiking escapade takes a dangerous turn when she's confronted by two menacing individuals who threaten her safety. Enter her unexpected savior, the knight in shining armor she had earlier rejected for a casual conversation. This man is Marshall Hendricks, who has recently lost his brother and is seeking his own escape from the struggles of life. Marshall offers to team up with Wren to find the remaining caches, leading to an unplanned camping trip that neither anticipated.
As they encounter danger and uncertainty during their journey, Wren begins to see Marshall in a new light. The companionship she had resisted may be the key to a safer adventure. Little does she know that their shared quest will unearth their dark pasts, fears, and secrets, setting off a chain of events with profound consequences. Wren's life is about to take a dramatic turn that she couldn't have predicted after their hiking expedition.
This novel takes you on a poignant journey of self-exploration, grief, and recovery, offering promises of inspiration and impact. The slow-burning romance between Wren and Marshall is deeply heartwarming, sincere, and truly beautiful.
Even as I'm still wiping away my tears, I can't recommend this book enough. It's meaningful, impactful, angsty, and truly sensational.
Huge thanks to NetGalley and St. Martin’s Press for generously providing me with a digital reviewer copy of this emotionally charged book in exchange for my honest thoughts.
If you’re interested in reading my extended book reviews, movie critiques, and hilarious astrology articles, be sure to check out my Medium account using the link below:
medium.com
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Meet Wren Waters, a thirty-four-year-old who seeks solace in the art of geocaching during her hikes. Armed with a geocache app and a determination to find hidden objects, this is her lifeline, pulling her out of bed each day and diverting her mind from the recent loss of her fiancé in a tragic car accident. The same man who shattered her beliefs in happily ever afters, trust, and honesty.
However, her hiking escapade takes a dangerous turn when she's confronted by two menacing individuals who threaten her safety. Enter her unexpected savior, the knight in shining armor she had earlier rejected for a casual conversation. This man is Marshall Hendricks, who has recently lost his brother and is seeking his own escape from the struggles of life. Marshall offers to team up with Wren to find the remaining caches, leading to an unplanned camping trip that neither anticipated.
As they encounter danger and uncertainty during their journey, Wren begins to see Marshall in a new light. The companionship she had resisted may be the key to a safer adventure. Little does she know that their shared quest will unearth their dark pasts, fears, and secrets, setting off a chain of events with profound consequences. Wren's life is about to take a dramatic turn that she couldn't have predicted after their hiking expedition.
This novel takes you on a poignant journey of self-exploration, grief, and recovery, offering promises of inspiration and impact. The slow-burning romance between Wren and Marshall is deeply heartwarming, sincere, and truly beautiful.
Even as I'm still wiping away my tears, I can't recommend this book enough. It's meaningful, impactful, angsty, and truly sensational.
Huge thanks to NetGalley and St. Martin’s Press for generously providing me with a digital reviewer copy of this emotionally charged book in exchange for my honest thoughts.
If you’re interested in reading my extended book reviews, movie critiques, and hilarious astrology articles, be sure to check out my Medium account using the link below:
medium.com
October 8, 2023
What a heart-cache!
Wren Waters is 34. She is a social media expert who works from home. Recently she has suffered two significant losses. She is down and depressed until she finds out about Geocaching. This outdoor activity is the only thing getting her out of her bed and her thoughts.
Wren decides to embark on geocaching on a hike trail in Oregon away from her friends and everyone who knows her.
Marshall Hendricks is a psychologist. He meets Wren on a trail, realizes she is after a cache, and offers to find it together. After Wren turns him down, they meet again when he helps her out of a dangerous situation.
He proposes to continue their geocaching journey together; this time, Wren is in.
What starts as strangers develops into friendship and then into something more but are they both ready to move on?
A book by Tracey Garvis Graves is always a sure thing. At least for me, it is.
This was a delightful read with multiple tear-jerking moments. Both Wren and Marshall went on a journey with their anger, guilt, and grief and came out better. As time passed, I loved how an open communication developed between them. In my eyes, they both grew as a person, building a strong foundation that is needed for a true long-lasting relationship.
This was a buddy-read with Jayme. Check out her amazing review.
Cliffhanger: No
4/5 Fangs
A complimentary copy was provided by St. Martin's Press via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
MrsLeif's Two Fangs About It | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram
Wren Waters is 34. She is a social media expert who works from home. Recently she has suffered two significant losses. She is down and depressed until she finds out about Geocaching. This outdoor activity is the only thing getting her out of her bed and her thoughts.
Wren decides to embark on geocaching on a hike trail in Oregon away from her friends and everyone who knows her.
Marshall Hendricks is a psychologist. He meets Wren on a trail, realizes she is after a cache, and offers to find it together. After Wren turns him down, they meet again when he helps her out of a dangerous situation.
He proposes to continue their geocaching journey together; this time, Wren is in.
What starts as strangers develops into friendship and then into something more but are they both ready to move on?
A book by Tracey Garvis Graves is always a sure thing. At least for me, it is.
This was a delightful read with multiple tear-jerking moments. Both Wren and Marshall went on a journey with their anger, guilt, and grief and came out better. As time passed, I loved how an open communication developed between them. In my eyes, they both grew as a person, building a strong foundation that is needed for a true long-lasting relationship.
This was a buddy-read with Jayme. Check out her amazing review.
Cliffhanger: No
4/5 Fangs
A complimentary copy was provided by St. Martin's Press via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
MrsLeif's Two Fangs About It | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram
March 26, 2024
The Trail of Lost Hearts by Tracey Garvis Graves was such a heartbreaking yet hopeful book. Years ago, I had read On the Island by Tracey Garvis Graves and had found it to be such an enjoyable read. It was a book that I had recommended to my friends without any hesitation. There was no doubt in my mind when I saw that Tracey Garvis Graves had written another book that I wanted read it. I was so glad that I did. The audiobook of The Trail of Lost Hearts was a good choice for me. The narrations that were performed by Kate Hendford and Eric Meyers were both excellent. Their performances almost made me feel like the characters were old friends and like I was right there beside them on their adventures. Tracey Garvis Graves made it easy to visualize the early scenes in Ohio and later the scenic landscape of Oregon. The characters were likable and very believable and the pace of the book was just right. I was drawn into the story immediately. Sometimes it was hard to pull myself away from it. I still find myself thinking about The Trail of Lost Hearts as I did after I finished On the Island. Tracey Garvis Graves’ masterful storytelling was responsible for that.
Wren Waters was a thirty-four year old woman who was suffering from a great loss and an act of deceit. All Wren wanted was to be left alone so she could wallow in her own self pity and anger. After several weeks of putting up with this behavior, Wren’s best friend Stephanie, had finally convinced Wren to get out of bed and leave her apartment to go geocaching with her. Even though Wren had never been geocaching and knew little about it, she agreed to go with Stephanie. Wren enjoyed geocaching more than she thought she was going to. That excursion led Wren to plan a solo geocaching vacation. Wren’s friends, especially Stephanie, were not sure why Wren was going on this vacation. She was traveling from Ohio to Oregon so she could accomplish this. Wren knew that she had to get away from Ohio, her thoughts and feelings and was convinced that this trip would be good for her even though her friends disagreed. Wren needed time by herself to think and try and figure things out and do a little geocaching at the same time.
When Wren arrived in Oregon she drove to a state park where she planned on beginning her solo adventure of geocaching. She almost immediately found herself standing in front of a tall and handsome man. The man tried to make polite conversation with Wren and even introduced himself as Marshall Hendricks. Wren wanted nothing to do with this attractive man, though. The last thing Wren was looking for was the company of a man. Wren was sure that she would never be able to trust another man in her lifetime. As handsome as this man was, Wren just turned and started on her way to start her adventure. Unfortunately, Wren had not gone very far before she spotted a group of three uncanny men that made her very nervous. There was something about these men that scared Wren. Her instincts were correct to be on high alert. The intentions of these men became apparent almost immediately to Wren. Fortunately for Wren, Marshall, the man she had met when she first arrived, came to her defense. Marshall and Wren escaped. Wren was so shaken from the experience that when Marshall suggested that they team up and go geocaching together, Wren agreed but reluctantly. She knew that she was safer with Marshall than alone but she knew little about Marshall and her defenses were up. Marshall revealed to Wren that he was a thirty-six year old psychologist also on a geocaching vacation. Wren and Marshall would learn a lot about each other in the coming days. Little did they realize that they were both grieving. Had their grief brought them together? Why had their paths crossed? Could they help each other heal?
The Trail of Lost Hearts by Tracey Garvis Graves was such an emotional read for me. I found myself smiling, crying and hoping. It was told mostly from Wren’s perspective but near the end Marshall made his POV heard. I loved the ending of this book even though I was sad to say goodbye to Wren and Marshall. I really felt like I knew them and wanted to continue on their journey with them. It was refreshing to meet characters who were strong and smart, yet quite vulnerable at the same time. I admired how Wren had to make some very hard and difficult decisions and yet she never wavered no matter how difficult they seemed at times. The Trail of Lost Hearts left a lasting impression on me. I highly recommend it if you enjoy women’s fiction.
Thank you to Macmillan Audio for allowing me to listen to The Trail of Lost Hearts by Tracey Garvis Graves through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
Wren Waters was a thirty-four year old woman who was suffering from a great loss and an act of deceit. All Wren wanted was to be left alone so she could wallow in her own self pity and anger. After several weeks of putting up with this behavior, Wren’s best friend Stephanie, had finally convinced Wren to get out of bed and leave her apartment to go geocaching with her. Even though Wren had never been geocaching and knew little about it, she agreed to go with Stephanie. Wren enjoyed geocaching more than she thought she was going to. That excursion led Wren to plan a solo geocaching vacation. Wren’s friends, especially Stephanie, were not sure why Wren was going on this vacation. She was traveling from Ohio to Oregon so she could accomplish this. Wren knew that she had to get away from Ohio, her thoughts and feelings and was convinced that this trip would be good for her even though her friends disagreed. Wren needed time by herself to think and try and figure things out and do a little geocaching at the same time.
When Wren arrived in Oregon she drove to a state park where she planned on beginning her solo adventure of geocaching. She almost immediately found herself standing in front of a tall and handsome man. The man tried to make polite conversation with Wren and even introduced himself as Marshall Hendricks. Wren wanted nothing to do with this attractive man, though. The last thing Wren was looking for was the company of a man. Wren was sure that she would never be able to trust another man in her lifetime. As handsome as this man was, Wren just turned and started on her way to start her adventure. Unfortunately, Wren had not gone very far before she spotted a group of three uncanny men that made her very nervous. There was something about these men that scared Wren. Her instincts were correct to be on high alert. The intentions of these men became apparent almost immediately to Wren. Fortunately for Wren, Marshall, the man she had met when she first arrived, came to her defense. Marshall and Wren escaped. Wren was so shaken from the experience that when Marshall suggested that they team up and go geocaching together, Wren agreed but reluctantly. She knew that she was safer with Marshall than alone but she knew little about Marshall and her defenses were up. Marshall revealed to Wren that he was a thirty-six year old psychologist also on a geocaching vacation. Wren and Marshall would learn a lot about each other in the coming days. Little did they realize that they were both grieving. Had their grief brought them together? Why had their paths crossed? Could they help each other heal?
The Trail of Lost Hearts by Tracey Garvis Graves was such an emotional read for me. I found myself smiling, crying and hoping. It was told mostly from Wren’s perspective but near the end Marshall made his POV heard. I loved the ending of this book even though I was sad to say goodbye to Wren and Marshall. I really felt like I knew them and wanted to continue on their journey with them. It was refreshing to meet characters who were strong and smart, yet quite vulnerable at the same time. I admired how Wren had to make some very hard and difficult decisions and yet she never wavered no matter how difficult they seemed at times. The Trail of Lost Hearts left a lasting impression on me. I highly recommend it if you enjoy women’s fiction.
Thank you to Macmillan Audio for allowing me to listen to The Trail of Lost Hearts by Tracey Garvis Graves through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
April 6, 2024
3.5 stars rounded down. I guess I had expected this to be more of a rom-com than it is - it was still a decent enough read, but at times it just felt very over-dramatic, like a soap opera. The beginning was exactly what I expected - two heart-broken people who meet on a geocaching trip in OR. But what I didn’t expect was that what they had in common was such extremely heart-rending, all consuming & numbing grief over their very recent and heart-breaking losses 😭😭 The other thing I didn’t expect was quite so much 🌶️ (which I just skimmed right by, wasn’t that much, but still) I did like that it was a quick read and I really loved the rustic & picturesque setting in Oregon and learning about geocaching, so a mixed review I guess…
August 3, 2025
Thank you to the author Tracey Garvis Graves, publishers St. Martin's Press, and NetGalley for an advance digital copy of THE TRAIL OF LOST HEARTS. All views are mine.
This quest was the right thing for me to do, and I'm the only one who needs to believe that. Loc. 1605
Tracy Garvis Graves has a huge following and her fans (and everyone else who seems to have read it) really loves this book. This one was not for me, and it comes down to the same issues I often have with pop fiction in any genre and that is weak narrative and weak story logic. More details are available on my Goodreads review. If you're a trope reader, this book will probably still satisfy, because tropes abound: second chance romance, forced proximity (a lot), bully romance (she's the bully this time), strangers to lovers (I know I made this up, but it should be a trope), jilted bride, opposites attract, roadtrip romance, and probably more. It's a really exciting romance, with the geocaching side plot, which I really enjoyed. Have fun with this one!
Now the forest is truly on fire. Time ceases to exist because Marshall has joined me, diving headfirst off the same cliff...and landing in the foam-filled pit... Loc. 1672
Three (or more) things I loved:
1. I really like the fmc's character trait the she gets mad when she gets embarrassed. It's so immature! It will make for some great moments!
Three (or less) things I didn't love:
This section isn't only for criticisms. It's merely for items that I felt something for other than "love" or some interpretation thereof.
1. This opening scene is completely unlikely and I have no buy-in. A couple rapists stalking the woods where there are *no* people? Couldn’t Graves have written a scene where the fmc falls and dangles or gets stuck? All she really needs is a white knight moment. I mean this borders on ridiculous. And I read a *lot* of books about men who victimize women.
2. It really stinks that I'm 6% into this book and still don't know this fmc's name.
3. Why is everyone in sad romances from Ohio? I'm from Ohio. This is just me, but I hate that trend in basic writing. You don't have to leave Ohio to make your life better and you don't have to go to Ohio just because things haven't worked out. Go to Florida if you're feeling sorry for yourself.
4. The attempts at metaromance sent my eyes rolling.
5. This narrative is so repetitive. The characters go geocaching. They go eat and sleep somewhere. They go geocaching again. They go eat and sleep somewhere. They get stuck in a room together. Okay this is just so lazy, I just want to tear my hair out.
6. Graves compares sex to a forest fire, cliff diving, and a foam pit, all in the same three lines, and I'm done. DNF at 49%.
Rating: 🏕.5 homes off the grid
Recommend? It really depends
Finished: Mar 27 '24
Format: Digital arc, Kindle, NetGalley
Read this book if you like:
😍 Romance stories
💍 infidelity
☘️ bad luck
‼️ tropes galore
This quest was the right thing for me to do, and I'm the only one who needs to believe that. Loc. 1605
Tracy Garvis Graves has a huge following and her fans (and everyone else who seems to have read it) really loves this book. This one was not for me, and it comes down to the same issues I often have with pop fiction in any genre and that is weak narrative and weak story logic. More details are available on my Goodreads review. If you're a trope reader, this book will probably still satisfy, because tropes abound: second chance romance, forced proximity (a lot), bully romance (she's the bully this time), strangers to lovers (I know I made this up, but it should be a trope), jilted bride, opposites attract, roadtrip romance, and probably more. It's a really exciting romance, with the geocaching side plot, which I really enjoyed. Have fun with this one!
Now the forest is truly on fire. Time ceases to exist because Marshall has joined me, diving headfirst off the same cliff...and landing in the foam-filled pit... Loc. 1672
Three (or more) things I loved:
1. I really like the fmc's character trait the she gets mad when she gets embarrassed. It's so immature! It will make for some great moments!
Three (or less) things I didn't love:
This section isn't only for criticisms. It's merely for items that I felt something for other than "love" or some interpretation thereof.
1. This opening scene is completely unlikely and I have no buy-in. A couple rapists stalking the woods where there are *no* people? Couldn’t Graves have written a scene where the fmc falls and dangles or gets stuck? All she really needs is a white knight moment. I mean this borders on ridiculous. And I read a *lot* of books about men who victimize women.
2. It really stinks that I'm 6% into this book and still don't know this fmc's name.
3. Why is everyone in sad romances from Ohio? I'm from Ohio. This is just me, but I hate that trend in basic writing. You don't have to leave Ohio to make your life better and you don't have to go to Ohio just because things haven't worked out. Go to Florida if you're feeling sorry for yourself.
4. The attempts at metaromance sent my eyes rolling.
5. This narrative is so repetitive. The characters go geocaching. They go eat and sleep somewhere. They go geocaching again. They go eat and sleep somewhere. They get stuck in a room together. Okay this is just so lazy, I just want to tear my hair out.
6. Graves compares sex to a forest fire, cliff diving, and a foam pit, all in the same three lines, and I'm done. DNF at 49%.
Rating: 🏕.5 homes off the grid
Recommend? It really depends
Finished: Mar 27 '24
Format: Digital arc, Kindle, NetGalley
Read this book if you like:
😍 Romance stories
💍 infidelity
☘️ bad luck
‼️ tropes galore
January 9, 2025
The Trail of Lost Hearts is quiet Romance and Women's Fiction with simple writing, meaningful topics, and mature main characters!
Wren Waters once believed that if you pay attention, the universe will send you exactly what you need.
Now she's not so sure...
Wren meets Marshall Hendricks unexpectedly on a trail while solo geocaching in Oregon. Not initially welcoming to Marshall's friendly small talk, Wren changes her tune when he comes to her aid down the trail. Afterward, Marshall suggests partnering together while continuing to search for hidden cache safely. Based on Wren's close call, she reluctantly agrees and their road trip begins...
Could the universe be at work here? Is Wren paying attention?
The Trail of Lost Hearts is the first novel I've read by this author and it's a refreshing romance story with two mature thirty-something main characters who are likable, vulnerable, and flawed. Both experienced recent setbacks with Wren needing alone time and Marshall craving a distraction. Important topics of grief, trust, and mental health are addressed realistically.
This was an immersion read and I preferred the digital version over the audio, narrated by Eric Meyers and Kate Handford. The voicing was fine overall but felt stilted and uncomfortable at times and didn't translate similarly in the digital version.
If you're in the mood for a quiet, refreshing romance, The Trail of Lost Hearts could be the one! 3.75⭐
Thank you to St. Martin's Press, Macmillan Audio, and Tracey Garvis Graves for a DRC and an ALC via NetGalley. This is my honest and voluntary review.
Wren Waters once believed that if you pay attention, the universe will send you exactly what you need.
Now she's not so sure...
Wren meets Marshall Hendricks unexpectedly on a trail while solo geocaching in Oregon. Not initially welcoming to Marshall's friendly small talk, Wren changes her tune when he comes to her aid down the trail. Afterward, Marshall suggests partnering together while continuing to search for hidden cache safely. Based on Wren's close call, she reluctantly agrees and their road trip begins...
Could the universe be at work here? Is Wren paying attention?
The Trail of Lost Hearts is the first novel I've read by this author and it's a refreshing romance story with two mature thirty-something main characters who are likable, vulnerable, and flawed. Both experienced recent setbacks with Wren needing alone time and Marshall craving a distraction. Important topics of grief, trust, and mental health are addressed realistically.
This was an immersion read and I preferred the digital version over the audio, narrated by Eric Meyers and Kate Handford. The voicing was fine overall but felt stilted and uncomfortable at times and didn't translate similarly in the digital version.
If you're in the mood for a quiet, refreshing romance, The Trail of Lost Hearts could be the one! 3.75⭐
Thank you to St. Martin's Press, Macmillan Audio, and Tracey Garvis Graves for a DRC and an ALC via NetGalley. This is my honest and voluntary review.
December 26, 2023
4.5⭐️ When Wren Waters is dealt not one, but two major blows back to back, she embarks on a geo-caching journey as a way to process her grief. There she meets Marshall Hendricks, a psychologist dealing with own grief and turmoil. A friendship forms when the two agree to partner in order to help another achieve their goals, while staying safe from those looking to cause harm.
This book caught me completely by surprise. It pulled me in immediately as I learned about what Wren had endured, and kept my attention with the introduction of Marshall (soon to be everyone’s newest book boyfriend). I loved the way Graves tackles the long term ramifications of grief especially when it intertwines with guilt.
The characters feel so real and each handle their emotions in a very real way. One of my favorite aspects of this book is the emotional growth these characters show from where they started - both quite broken by life. I laughed, I cried, I swooned and felt all the other feelings a great book can bring about.
Read if you like:
•emotional love stories
•first person, single POV
•PCT setting (hiking)
•stories about overcoming grief
•women’s fiction
•happiness for beginners
•eat pray love
Thank you St. Martin’s Press for my advanced copy.
This book caught me completely by surprise. It pulled me in immediately as I learned about what Wren had endured, and kept my attention with the introduction of Marshall (soon to be everyone’s newest book boyfriend). I loved the way Graves tackles the long term ramifications of grief especially when it intertwines with guilt.
The characters feel so real and each handle their emotions in a very real way. One of my favorite aspects of this book is the emotional growth these characters show from where they started - both quite broken by life. I laughed, I cried, I swooned and felt all the other feelings a great book can bring about.
Read if you like:
•emotional love stories
•first person, single POV
•PCT setting (hiking)
•stories about overcoming grief
•women’s fiction
•happiness for beginners
•eat pray love
Thank you St. Martin’s Press for my advanced copy.
January 18, 2024
⭐️4.5 stars⭐️
This story was empowering and emotional. I was drawn to Wren’s strength and courage and how she chose to take control of her life and make it what she wanted, despite whatever obstacles she faced. And as a single mom myself, I can only dream of meeting a man as loving and selfless as Mitchell. I like that their love story wasn’t perfect. That’s reality. Nothing is straightforward. But it is worth fighting for.
I enjoyed this book so much and enjoyed the narration as well. Thank you NetGalley and Macmillan Audio for the chance to review it.
This story was empowering and emotional. I was drawn to Wren’s strength and courage and how she chose to take control of her life and make it what she wanted, despite whatever obstacles she faced. And as a single mom myself, I can only dream of meeting a man as loving and selfless as Mitchell. I like that their love story wasn’t perfect. That’s reality. Nothing is straightforward. But it is worth fighting for.
I enjoyed this book so much and enjoyed the narration as well. Thank you NetGalley and Macmillan Audio for the chance to review it.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 25, 2023
The Trail of Lost Hearts is the third book I've read by Tracey Garvis Graves and I absolutely LOVED it! Too bad it will not be available until five months from now, as I want everyone to read it right away! It has the perfect autumn feel and is so cozy and genuine. It felt like being wrapped in a warm blanket on a cold day.
Wren and Marshall were wonderful characters and I will miss them now that I am done. I felt so bad for what Wren was going through and then I learned more about what happened in Marshall's life and I wanted to reach through the pages and hug him. The banter and chemistry between Wren and Marshall was incredible and I just really wanted things to work out between them.
I've never gone geocaching and it's not really my kind of thing, but Tracey made it sound more interesting than I was expecting it to be, so kudos to her on that!
Overall, this story is just full of heart and I still think about it often. Fans of Allie Larkin will love this novel too! I still need to go back and read On the Island, as I'm always hearing so many great things about that one too. I will make that one of my 2024 book goals!
Movie casting suggestions:
Wren and Marshall were wonderful characters and I will miss them now that I am done. I felt so bad for what Wren was going through and then I learned more about what happened in Marshall's life and I wanted to reach through the pages and hug him. The banter and chemistry between Wren and Marshall was incredible and I just really wanted things to work out between them.
I've never gone geocaching and it's not really my kind of thing, but Tracey made it sound more interesting than I was expecting it to be, so kudos to her on that!
Overall, this story is just full of heart and I still think about it often. Fans of Allie Larkin will love this novel too! I still need to go back and read On the Island, as I'm always hearing so many great things about that one too. I will make that one of my 2024 book goals!
Movie casting suggestions:
Wren: Britt Robertson
Marshall: Sam Claflin
Stephanie: Tristin Mays
Rob: Matt Barr
Shayla: Laurence Leboeuf
Wren's mom: Mariel Hemingway
February 11, 2024
I was attracted to the cover of this book and then got invited to read it, so decided to take the plunge. This is a story about a young woman rebuilding her life after a devastating shock and loss. She throws herself into an activity called geocaching, an outdoor recreational activity, sort of a treasure hunting game, where you use a GPS to hide and seek containers along with other participants. She travels to another state on this quest and randomly interacts with a guy who is also dealing with trauma and loss and its resultant grief. Ultimately, through another potential calamity on the geocaching trail, these two collide and wind up teaming up for a week on the geocaching quest.
As the story unfolds, they slowly share the details involving their grief, find solace in each other, but have to decide if they have long-term potential as they live in different states and still have emotional growth to navigate. When Wren returns to her hometown of Ohio, she is immediately met with a further life-altering complication. Wren is a pleasing character, a young woman who has the strength to confront some very hard life events, self-supporting and independent, intelligent and strong- but never afraid to cry.
This was a low-key work of fiction employing topics that pull on the heartstrings. It was a quick, easy, and enjoyable read.
Thank you to the publisher St. Martin's Press for providing an advance reader copy via NetGalley.
As the story unfolds, they slowly share the details involving their grief, find solace in each other, but have to decide if they have long-term potential as they live in different states and still have emotional growth to navigate. When Wren returns to her hometown of Ohio, she is immediately met with a further life-altering complication. Wren is a pleasing character, a young woman who has the strength to confront some very hard life events, self-supporting and independent, intelligent and strong- but never afraid to cry.
This was a low-key work of fiction employing topics that pull on the heartstrings. It was a quick, easy, and enjoyable read.
Thank you to the publisher St. Martin's Press for providing an advance reader copy via NetGalley.
March 26, 2024
Another five star read from one of my favorite authors!
Wren and Marshall. Two lonely souls living with past trauma, meet geocashing in a threatening rescuer/rescuee-type situation. For safety they team up looking for caches, forming a close-knit bond talking through her past trauma. Although talking of his trauma.. not so much. Wren begins to feel a something. more. than. friendship. towards Marshall. THE TRAIL OF LOST HEARTS is what feels like a true-to-life journey of personal growth/growing through grief.. the courage to love again.. of moving forward.. becoming a better person. Romance is an important and beautiful part of this tale.. how Tracey brought these two people together was everything. ❥ There is a much wider, deeper storyline but no spoilers here. Has a bit heavier content, is so emotional. Whew. But oh how I love the way this is told. In my top ten ‘24 favorites list, highly recommend! 5 stars — Pub. 3/26/24
I received an arc thanks to St. Martin’s Press via NetGalley for an honest review.
Wren and Marshall. Two lonely souls living with past trauma, meet geocashing in a threatening rescuer/rescuee-type situation. For safety they team up looking for caches, forming a close-knit bond talking through her past trauma. Although talking of his trauma.. not so much. Wren begins to feel a something. more. than. friendship. towards Marshall. THE TRAIL OF LOST HEARTS is what feels like a true-to-life journey of personal growth/growing through grief.. the courage to love again.. of moving forward.. becoming a better person. Romance is an important and beautiful part of this tale.. how Tracey brought these two people together was everything. ❥ There is a much wider, deeper storyline but no spoilers here. Has a bit heavier content, is so emotional. Whew. But oh how I love the way this is told. In my top ten ‘24 favorites list, highly recommend! 5 stars — Pub. 3/26/24
I received an arc thanks to St. Martin’s Press via NetGalley for an honest review.
March 21, 2024
When I open a Tracey Garvis Graves novel, I know two things are certain: 1) I will see myself in the characters and 2) Graves will take me on a journey of growth and happiness. And that’s exactly what we get in “The Trail of Lost Hearts”.
Wren and Marshall are both dealing with heartbreaking losses, yet a chance encounter sends both on a journey of healing and love. Set in the Pacific Northwest, readers walk side by side with Wren and Marshall as they work through their emotional baggage – on and off the hiking trails. I love that TGG skipped the overused tropes and gave us mature characters who truly wanted to grow and learn, who wanted to be open and honest from the start. Nothing irks me more than when authors dumb down characters and solutions in hopes of pulling off popular tropes.
As Wren and Marshall find themselves on the hiking trails of the PNW, they also find the courage to believe in love again, to reach for happiness. I found Wren to be far braver than I would be considering the circumstances she finds herself in. She really gives grace when I would have been less forgiving. Her character arc is one that gives me hope for other women for find themselves dealing with devasting losses and surprising developments. Marshall is the quiet kind of love interest. One who is respectful and endearing, who gives space when needed yet provides comfort when Wren needs it most. He is a slow build hero and I often thought he was a lot like Jonathan in Graves’s book “The Girl He Used to Know”, which is a must read if you haven’t already.
“The Trail of Lost Hearts” is the perfect story of second chances – both platonic and romantic. Not only do we get a love story from TGG, but we are also gifted the chance to see two individuals find themselves while hiking through the great outdoors. Speaking of you can tell the author really did her homework on both the PNW and Wren’s hometown. I always find joy in seeing locations I’m familiar with being well written in pieces of fiction.
* Thanks to the publisher for my ARC *
Wren and Marshall are both dealing with heartbreaking losses, yet a chance encounter sends both on a journey of healing and love. Set in the Pacific Northwest, readers walk side by side with Wren and Marshall as they work through their emotional baggage – on and off the hiking trails. I love that TGG skipped the overused tropes and gave us mature characters who truly wanted to grow and learn, who wanted to be open and honest from the start. Nothing irks me more than when authors dumb down characters and solutions in hopes of pulling off popular tropes.
As Wren and Marshall find themselves on the hiking trails of the PNW, they also find the courage to believe in love again, to reach for happiness. I found Wren to be far braver than I would be considering the circumstances she finds herself in. She really gives grace when I would have been less forgiving. Her character arc is one that gives me hope for other women for find themselves dealing with devasting losses and surprising developments. Marshall is the quiet kind of love interest. One who is respectful and endearing, who gives space when needed yet provides comfort when Wren needs it most. He is a slow build hero and I often thought he was a lot like Jonathan in Graves’s book “The Girl He Used to Know”, which is a must read if you haven’t already.
“The Trail of Lost Hearts” is the perfect story of second chances – both platonic and romantic. Not only do we get a love story from TGG, but we are also gifted the chance to see two individuals find themselves while hiking through the great outdoors. Speaking of you can tell the author really did her homework on both the PNW and Wren’s hometown. I always find joy in seeing locations I’m familiar with being well written in pieces of fiction.
* Thanks to the publisher for my ARC *
March 29, 2024
THE TRAIL OF LOST HEARTS
● Wren (34) & Marshall (36+)
● social media manager / psychologist
● Wren is from Dayton, Ohio
● Marshall is from Portland, Oregon
● Wren’s fiance was killed in a car accident
● Wren & Marshall meet on the Wild Iris Ridge trail (Eugene, Oregon)
● both are geocachers
● Marshall saves her from 2 shady men on the trail
● a catalyst leads Marshall to accompany Wren on her week-long geocaching trip around Oregon
● Trailhead - Wild Iris Ridge (side note: we have friends that live right by this trailhead)
● a trip to PNW - Oregon
● Marshall has his own trauma he is working through too
I enjoyed that this book starts in my home state and I've been to where they went geocaching. Plus my family used to geocache.
● Wren (34) & Marshall (36+)
● social media manager / psychologist
● Wren is from Dayton, Ohio
● Marshall is from Portland, Oregon
● Wren’s fiance was killed in a car accident
● Wren & Marshall meet on the Wild Iris Ridge trail (Eugene, Oregon)
● both are geocachers
● Marshall saves her from 2 shady men on the trail
● a catalyst leads Marshall to accompany Wren on her week-long geocaching trip around Oregon
● Trailhead - Wild Iris Ridge (side note: we have friends that live right by this trailhead)
● a trip to PNW - Oregon
● Marshall has his own trauma he is working through too
I enjoyed that this book starts in my home state and I've been to where they went geocaching. Plus my family used to geocache.
Audiobook source: Libby
Narrator: Eric Meyers & Kate Handford
Length: 8H 52M
March 26, 2024
4 Stars!
(ARC provided by St. Martin's Press)
"My quest was never about a destination; it was always about discovering who I am and what I want the rest of my life to look like."
Wren Waters lives in Dayton, Ohio. She recently suffered incredible heartbreak and feels lost. When her entire world was turned upside down she was nearly destroyed. Her future is uncertain, and she's tired of being sad. She's in desperate need of a change of scenery. She wants to get back to truly living, and craves a new purpose. She finds the perfect distraction in an outdoor activity where you use GPS to find hidden objects. She decides to head to Oregon on a weeklong geocaching quest. She's researched and prepared for her adventure in the middle of nowhere, but suddenly nothing is going as she planned when she finds herself in some trouble. When another hiker comes to her rescue and shows her kindness they decide to end their solo vacations and team up to accomplish their goals and finish what they started together.
Marshall Hendricks is a psychologist from Portland who is struggling lately. His life is in shambles, and battling his demons has become exhausting. Then he crosses paths with a woman named Wren who makes him smile. They decide to be travel companions, as they are both working through their own pain. It's effortless between them as they find solace in one another. As two lost souls set off on a road trip they start to feel alive again. When friendship turns into something more will two broken hearts finally get the happiness they deserve?
The Trail of Lost Hearts by Tracey Garvis Graves is an emotional friends to lovers romance about trust, loss, grief, healing, chance encounters, fate and self discovery. It's a beautiful story that will touch your heart and hit you in all the feels! <333
***NOW AVAILABLE***
https://www.amazon.com/dp/1250280273?...
(ARC provided by St. Martin's Press)
"My quest was never about a destination; it was always about discovering who I am and what I want the rest of my life to look like."
Wren Waters lives in Dayton, Ohio. She recently suffered incredible heartbreak and feels lost. When her entire world was turned upside down she was nearly destroyed. Her future is uncertain, and she's tired of being sad. She's in desperate need of a change of scenery. She wants to get back to truly living, and craves a new purpose. She finds the perfect distraction in an outdoor activity where you use GPS to find hidden objects. She decides to head to Oregon on a weeklong geocaching quest. She's researched and prepared for her adventure in the middle of nowhere, but suddenly nothing is going as she planned when she finds herself in some trouble. When another hiker comes to her rescue and shows her kindness they decide to end their solo vacations and team up to accomplish their goals and finish what they started together.
Marshall Hendricks is a psychologist from Portland who is struggling lately. His life is in shambles, and battling his demons has become exhausting. Then he crosses paths with a woman named Wren who makes him smile. They decide to be travel companions, as they are both working through their own pain. It's effortless between them as they find solace in one another. As two lost souls set off on a road trip they start to feel alive again. When friendship turns into something more will two broken hearts finally get the happiness they deserve?
The Trail of Lost Hearts by Tracey Garvis Graves is an emotional friends to lovers romance about trust, loss, grief, healing, chance encounters, fate and self discovery. It's a beautiful story that will touch your heart and hit you in all the feels! <333
***NOW AVAILABLE***
https://www.amazon.com/dp/1250280273?...
January 3, 2024
The Trail of Lost Hearts started off strong- I initially thought this would be a 5⭐️ read. I loved the idea of a story centered around healing in nature. But the more I read, the more the story missed the mark.
While teaming up together to geocache in the PNW, Wren basically spends most of the time using Marshall, a psychologist, for free therapy to work through her recent trauma. Their conversations mostly centered on the earth-shattering event that changed her life and inspired her geocaching trip, but sometimes Marshall would talk a little about his trauma as well.
Though I could relate to and empathize with Wren’s situation, the further I got into the story, the less I liked her. I don’t think the expectations she set for Marshall were fair or realistic, considering they had known each other for only a week, and he was working through trauma of his own.
I’m also confused about the transition from geocaching partners to unofficial therapist/ patient to romantic partners. At one point, she slips and he grabs her by the hand to steady her and suddenly she’s confused about his signals and whether or not he likes her romantically. Up until this point, he had basically been her soundboard as she worked through her recent trauma involving another man. Why is she suddenly wondering if he wants a romance with her, just because he instinctively kept her from falling when she slipped?
I was also not a fan of the twist and I honestly would not have even requested this book had I known it had this trope. But what bothered me even more about this twist was she kept it a secret from him for months! It was incredibly hypocritical and unfair. And I think Wren was unfair to another character as well, and I don’t like the way she handled their situation.
I think, if this story had stayed focused on Wren and Marshall’s healing and friendship, I would have liked this story more. The twist could have been removed from the story as well (and based on other reviews I’ve seen, I’m not alone in this.)
I would recommend The Trail of Lost Hearts if you enjoy traveling through stories, and characters who try to work through their traumas.
3⭐️
Thank you, NetGalley for the opportunity to read this story early. The Trail of Lost Hearts comes out 03/26/24.
While teaming up together to geocache in the PNW, Wren basically spends most of the time using Marshall, a psychologist, for free therapy to work through her recent trauma. Their conversations mostly centered on the earth-shattering event that changed her life and inspired her geocaching trip, but sometimes Marshall would talk a little about his trauma as well.
Though I could relate to and empathize with Wren’s situation, the further I got into the story, the less I liked her. I don’t think the expectations she set for Marshall were fair or realistic, considering they had known each other for only a week, and he was working through trauma of his own.
I’m also confused about the transition from geocaching partners to unofficial therapist/ patient to romantic partners. At one point, she slips and he grabs her by the hand to steady her and suddenly she’s confused about his signals and whether or not he likes her romantically. Up until this point, he had basically been her soundboard as she worked through her recent trauma involving another man. Why is she suddenly wondering if he wants a romance with her, just because he instinctively kept her from falling when she slipped?
I was also not a fan of the twist and I honestly would not have even requested this book had I known it had this trope. But what bothered me even more about this twist was she kept it a secret from him for months! It was incredibly hypocritical and unfair. And I think Wren was unfair to another character as well, and I don’t like the way she handled their situation.
I think, if this story had stayed focused on Wren and Marshall’s healing and friendship, I would have liked this story more. The twist could have been removed from the story as well (and based on other reviews I’ve seen, I’m not alone in this.)
I would recommend The Trail of Lost Hearts if you enjoy traveling through stories, and characters who try to work through their traumas.
3⭐️
Thank you, NetGalley for the opportunity to read this story early. The Trail of Lost Hearts comes out 03/26/24.
June 23, 2024
The beginning of this was great, the shared trauma and situation in which they met had me all in, I got the chemistry and I couldn't wait to see them grow and be open with each other. Then the twist happens and it just became super annoying. Wren continuously saying that she wants him to be open about everything with her and nothing can go further with them till that happens but yet she is hiding this secret FOR MONTHS?!?! while saying over and over I'm going to tell him I am, I know I need to tell him soon.....blah blah blah. I would have been fine if that twist happened even at the beginning and they dealt and became closer because of it, the way it came about and ended was so annoying (personally).
Thank you to St. Martins Press, Netgalley and the author for giving me an e-arc in exchange for an honest review.
Thank you to St. Martins Press, Netgalley and the author for giving me an e-arc in exchange for an honest review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 1, 2024
Spoiler warning. I spoil the entire book.
I chose this book because I love geocaching and I love rom-coms.
This book is pretty mid, honestly. I like the geocaching aspects, and the writing isn't bad, but I do have some issues.
The main characters are not fleshed out at all, every thing we know about them is very surface level. Especially Marshall, oh my god. Who even is this dude? By the time Wren is fully ready to be with this guy, all we know about him is that he's a psychiatrist, had an ex of six years that broke up with him because his brother died and he's no longer fun, and that he's 'charming?' He never really says anything that's all that fun or charming, honestly he's got about as much of a personality as a wet piece of cardboard. And Wren is feral for this man. I know practically nothing about Marshall but I have a vivid description of what he looks like, down to how tall he is (6'4") and Wren's favorite "asset" of Marshall's (forearms).
They've been geocaching together for a few days at this point, and they both obviously want to jump each other. There's a nice scene where they are staring at a picturesque view and Marshall tells Wren that he wanted to hold her hand the previous night and that he wishes he was the one that met her at a gas station instead of her ex fiance. Then the very next chapter she asks, "What does it all mean?"
What are you talking about? I don't think Marshall could have been any more clear about his intentions, honestly.
Then Wren starts to really piss me off. She gets mad at Marshall for not reciprocating the trauma dump that she did when she told Marshall everything about her ex fiance. She's mad that he's also not being as open with her about his grieving. Girl, you've known him less than a week and you're asking him to divulge incredibly sensitive information. You even KNOW what he's hiding because you googled it behind his back. The hell is wrong with you? He's not obligated to tell you his trauma just because you did. Give him some time, damn, she literally ends the relationship over this. You knew him for like five days.
And UGH, there is one trope that will instantly make me stop reading a book, and that is the accidental pregnancy trope. I actually kept reading after this because *technically* the ex fiance got her pregnant, not Marshall. So the book gets a pass, but I was 80% clocked out by this point anyway.
Overall, the book is just kind of boring. Not a lot happens. We spend A LOT of time hearing about the ex fiance, which...fair. He's a shit and the story is crazy, but a good chunk of that time could have been spent fleshing out the MC's more.
I don't have an attachment to either of them because I know almost nothing about them. I also wish that we would have found out about what Rob did later in the story. Knowing right away that the ex died and had a secret family takes away from the reveal of Marshall finding out. I think the audience should have learned that when Marshall did.
I also couldn't picture Marshall as anyone else but Jason Segel in HIMYM. So that annoyed me quite a bit.
That being said, I did enjoy the end. I did enjoy the baby storyline (to my surprise). I did enjoy when Marshall saw Birdie at the airport and said, "What's the word, bird?"
2 stars because the baby's due date was my birthday.
I chose this book because I love geocaching and I love rom-coms.
This book is pretty mid, honestly. I like the geocaching aspects, and the writing isn't bad, but I do have some issues.
The main characters are not fleshed out at all, every thing we know about them is very surface level. Especially Marshall, oh my god. Who even is this dude? By the time Wren is fully ready to be with this guy, all we know about him is that he's a psychiatrist, had an ex of six years that broke up with him because his brother died and he's no longer fun, and that he's 'charming?' He never really says anything that's all that fun or charming, honestly he's got about as much of a personality as a wet piece of cardboard. And Wren is feral for this man. I know practically nothing about Marshall but I have a vivid description of what he looks like, down to how tall he is (6'4") and Wren's favorite "asset" of Marshall's (forearms).
They've been geocaching together for a few days at this point, and they both obviously want to jump each other. There's a nice scene where they are staring at a picturesque view and Marshall tells Wren that he wanted to hold her hand the previous night and that he wishes he was the one that met her at a gas station instead of her ex fiance. Then the very next chapter she asks, "What does it all mean?"
What are you talking about? I don't think Marshall could have been any more clear about his intentions, honestly.
Then Wren starts to really piss me off. She gets mad at Marshall for not reciprocating the trauma dump that she did when she told Marshall everything about her ex fiance. She's mad that he's also not being as open with her about his grieving. Girl, you've known him less than a week and you're asking him to divulge incredibly sensitive information. You even KNOW what he's hiding because you googled it behind his back. The hell is wrong with you? He's not obligated to tell you his trauma just because you did. Give him some time, damn, she literally ends the relationship over this. You knew him for like five days.
And UGH, there is one trope that will instantly make me stop reading a book, and that is the accidental pregnancy trope. I actually kept reading after this because *technically* the ex fiance got her pregnant, not Marshall. So the book gets a pass, but I was 80% clocked out by this point anyway.
Overall, the book is just kind of boring. Not a lot happens. We spend A LOT of time hearing about the ex fiance, which...fair. He's a shit and the story is crazy, but a good chunk of that time could have been spent fleshing out the MC's more.
I don't have an attachment to either of them because I know almost nothing about them. I also wish that we would have found out about what Rob did later in the story. Knowing right away that the ex died and had a secret family takes away from the reveal of Marshall finding out. I think the audience should have learned that when Marshall did.
I also couldn't picture Marshall as anyone else but Jason Segel in HIMYM. So that annoyed me quite a bit.
That being said, I did enjoy the end. I did enjoy the baby storyline (to my surprise). I did enjoy when Marshall saw Birdie at the airport and said, "What's the word, bird?"
2 stars because the baby's due date was my birthday.
August 18, 2023
Tracey has this way of snagging your attention from the. Very. First. Sentence. And not letting go until you’ve finished the book and sat with your thoughts for an hour. And maybe then some more. These characters were so darn LOVABLE and I could read more and more and more of their story and never be bored.
Wren has embarked on a geocaching journey amidst some trauma in her life, when she encounters Marshall along the way. Marshall is battling some horrors of his own, and the two strike up a friendship.
I will forever be a reader if this authors work, and her latest does not disappoint. Grab this one as soon as you can!
Thank you to Tracey Garvis Graves for gifting me this ARC! ❤️
Wren has embarked on a geocaching journey amidst some trauma in her life, when she encounters Marshall along the way. Marshall is battling some horrors of his own, and the two strike up a friendship.
I will forever be a reader if this authors work, and her latest does not disappoint. Grab this one as soon as you can!
Thank you to Tracey Garvis Graves for gifting me this ARC! ❤️
April 17, 2024
Love after loss
Thrown off their paths by life-altering tragedies, Wren and Marshall meet while geocaching. Marshall helps Wren out of a potentially horrifying situation with two hateful men on a remote trail. While reluctant to trust, she agrees to team up with him for a few days to help their geocaching prospects, and the two form a fragile friendship that could blossom into something more.
What follows is a beautiful, quiet story about finding love after grief and tragedy for both Marshall and Wren. Each has terrible stories in their past and a justified reluctance to engage again with the real world. Watching them fall for one another is basically the entire plot-- there are no wild surprises or twists--but it's a sweet fall (with some unexpected spice!). The Pacific Northwest scenery stands in as another character, thanks to the gorgeous descriptions throughout the book. Garvis Graves does an excellent job of delving deep into her characters' psyches, exploring sadness and loss, but also leaving us with hope (and a desire to try geocaching). 4 stars.
I received a copy of this book from Netgalley and St. Martin's Press in return for an unbiased review.
Thrown off their paths by life-altering tragedies, Wren and Marshall meet while geocaching. Marshall helps Wren out of a potentially horrifying situation with two hateful men on a remote trail. While reluctant to trust, she agrees to team up with him for a few days to help their geocaching prospects, and the two form a fragile friendship that could blossom into something more.
What follows is a beautiful, quiet story about finding love after grief and tragedy for both Marshall and Wren. Each has terrible stories in their past and a justified reluctance to engage again with the real world. Watching them fall for one another is basically the entire plot-- there are no wild surprises or twists--but it's a sweet fall (with some unexpected spice!). The Pacific Northwest scenery stands in as another character, thanks to the gorgeous descriptions throughout the book. Garvis Graves does an excellent job of delving deep into her characters' psyches, exploring sadness and loss, but also leaving us with hope (and a desire to try geocaching). 4 stars.
I received a copy of this book from Netgalley and St. Martin's Press in return for an unbiased review.
April 17, 2024
The Trail of Lost Hearts is a love story that is sweet, full of heart and discovery. This is a book about real people and situations that we each hold close: safety, love and heartache.
🏔️𝗪𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝗮𝗽𝗽𝗲𝗮𝗹𝗲𝗱 𝘁𝗼 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝗺𝗼𝘀𝘁 𝗶𝗻 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝘀𝘁𝗼𝗿𝘆?
I loved absolutely love any book set on the west coast, and then throw in hiking in Oregon and I’m there for it! I’ve spent quite a bit of time hiking the same area in this book, and it was so fun being transported back there. Plus, Garvis Graves did her homework, because she brought the hiking trails and nature to life as I read with stunning atmosphere.
Oh…And how did I not know about geocaching!?! I’m now obsessed!
🩷𝗛𝗼𝘄 𝘄𝗮𝘀 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗿𝗼𝗺𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗲?
I liked the development of the relationship between Wren and Marshall, and I was there for the insta-attraction and spice. On top of enjoying the romance, I appreciated how the characters dug in to their past issues in order to heal and find themselves in an healthier head space in order to love again.
🔥Steam level: Open Door
✔️𝗥𝗲𝗮𝗱 𝗶𝗳 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝗹𝗶𝗸𝗲:
Hiking
Nature
Insta-Love
Love after Loss
Mental Health Rep
Supportive Characters
📖𝗛𝗼𝘄 𝘄𝗮𝘀 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗽𝗮𝗰𝗲?
I flew through this story and loved discussing everything with Kaley during our buddy read.
🥾𝗗𝗼 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝗿𝗲𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗺𝗲𝗻𝗱 𝘁𝗵𝗶𝘀 𝗯𝗼𝗼𝗸?
Overall, this is a heartwarming story that I recommend!
Thank you, St Martin’s Press for this gifted copy and exchange for my honest review.
🏔️𝗪𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝗮𝗽𝗽𝗲𝗮𝗹𝗲𝗱 𝘁𝗼 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝗺𝗼𝘀𝘁 𝗶𝗻 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝘀𝘁𝗼𝗿𝘆?
I loved absolutely love any book set on the west coast, and then throw in hiking in Oregon and I’m there for it! I’ve spent quite a bit of time hiking the same area in this book, and it was so fun being transported back there. Plus, Garvis Graves did her homework, because she brought the hiking trails and nature to life as I read with stunning atmosphere.
Oh…And how did I not know about geocaching!?! I’m now obsessed!
🩷𝗛𝗼𝘄 𝘄𝗮𝘀 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗿𝗼𝗺𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗲?
I liked the development of the relationship between Wren and Marshall, and I was there for the insta-attraction and spice. On top of enjoying the romance, I appreciated how the characters dug in to their past issues in order to heal and find themselves in an healthier head space in order to love again.
🔥Steam level: Open Door
✔️𝗥𝗲𝗮𝗱 𝗶𝗳 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝗹𝗶𝗸𝗲:
Hiking
Nature
Insta-Love
Love after Loss
Mental Health Rep
Supportive Characters
📖𝗛𝗼𝘄 𝘄𝗮𝘀 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗽𝗮𝗰𝗲?
I flew through this story and loved discussing everything with Kaley during our buddy read.
🥾𝗗𝗼 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝗿𝗲𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗺𝗲𝗻𝗱 𝘁𝗵𝗶𝘀 𝗯𝗼𝗼𝗸?
Overall, this is a heartwarming story that I recommend!
Thank you, St Martin’s Press for this gifted copy and exchange for my honest review.
September 20, 2023
Two people trying to heal after traumatic experiences turn to nature, only to find an unexpected friendship that turns to love. ❣️
Overall, I thought this book was fine. I enjoyed the first half which was focused on hiking/geocaching and getting to know our main characters, Wren and Marshall. Aside from the “big twist”, which I didn’t care for, I think the main reason I didn’t like the book more was Wren herself. Given she opened up to Marshall, she expected him to tell her about a traumatic experience he was trying work through, even though they’d known each other a week. I just don’t think that’s something you can hold against someone, especially to the point of lecturing them under the ruse of standing up for yourself. (And also when you hypocritically do the same thing to him later. 🙄) I would have liked this one better had we seen more of their healing and coming together on the page versus focusing on the twist in the last half. With all of that said, I read this one quickly and thought it was fine, even if a bit sappy.
My thanks to NetGalley and St. Martin’s Press for a complimentary advance copy of this eBook, out 3/26/2024.
Overall, I thought this book was fine. I enjoyed the first half which was focused on hiking/geocaching and getting to know our main characters, Wren and Marshall. Aside from the “big twist”, which I didn’t care for, I think the main reason I didn’t like the book more was Wren herself. Given she opened up to Marshall, she expected him to tell her about a traumatic experience he was trying work through, even though they’d known each other a week. I just don’t think that’s something you can hold against someone, especially to the point of lecturing them under the ruse of standing up for yourself. (And also when you hypocritically do the same thing to him later. 🙄) I would have liked this one better had we seen more of their healing and coming together on the page versus focusing on the twist in the last half. With all of that said, I read this one quickly and thought it was fine, even if a bit sappy.
My thanks to NetGalley and St. Martin’s Press for a complimentary advance copy of this eBook, out 3/26/2024.
April 4, 2024
Talk about emotional love stories! There was nothing predictable about this story and I loved that. Two people find each other in a very unusual way and they both have a lot of baggage - deep trauma. The growth between these two felt very real and palpable.This book deals with themes such as cheating, death, grief & hope. Had a twist that I’m usually not crazy about but it didn’t stop me from reading. Very real life. I enjoyed this one.
June 12, 2024
A great soul searching soul happiness book. Another well written joyful (with quite a few sad spots too) about a woman trying to figure out life.
February 26, 2024
Review coming soon.
March 25, 2024
3.5 Stars
Wren and Marshall have each had shock and heartbreak they’re trying to get over and they randomly meet on a trail in Oregon while both geocaching. Their paths converge in a dramatic way, and they decide to team up for the remainder of their vacation. They bond over and soothe the heartbreak they’ve suffered. They have chemistry and end up falling hard, but the timing is tricky.
The Trail of Lost Hearts started with a bang and had me so frightened for Wren at the beginning! I was enraged by the event and I feel exactly the same way: A woman SHOULD be able to hike alone without worrying about being in danger! Men do not have this worry and it’s so unfair! I love hiking and have hiked a lot of trails in Oregon, so the setting at the beginning reminded me of all the beautiful scenery! The idea of geocaching, something I’ve never tried, sounds like a lot of fun!
I was in LOVE with this story until I hit the 60% mark. Then it took a turn I wasn’t thrilled about.
I would've enjoyed it more if
Just felt like a lot of messy drama added on to a story I was really enjoying. Still, I will say that I finished the book in one day. It was one I couldn’t put down!
I alternately read and listened to the story. Kate Hanford did a wonderful job performing both female and male voices. She had a steady, calm voice that fit right in with Wren taking all the hits while remaining calm and clear headed. It was a nice feature to have Eric Meyers read his emails and texts to Wren. I listened at my usual 1.5x normal speed.
A copy was kindly provided by St. Martin's Press and Macmillan Audio in exchange for an honest review.
Wren and Marshall have each had shock and heartbreak they’re trying to get over and they randomly meet on a trail in Oregon while both geocaching. Their paths converge in a dramatic way, and they decide to team up for the remainder of their vacation. They bond over and soothe the heartbreak they’ve suffered. They have chemistry and end up falling hard, but the timing is tricky.
The Trail of Lost Hearts started with a bang and had me so frightened for Wren at the beginning! I was enraged by the event and I feel exactly the same way: A woman SHOULD be able to hike alone without worrying about being in danger! Men do not have this worry and it’s so unfair! I love hiking and have hiked a lot of trails in Oregon, so the setting at the beginning reminded me of all the beautiful scenery! The idea of geocaching, something I’ve never tried, sounds like a lot of fun!
I was in LOVE with this story until I hit the 60% mark. Then it took a turn I wasn’t thrilled about.
I would've enjoyed it more if
Just felt like a lot of messy drama added on to a story I was really enjoying. Still, I will say that I finished the book in one day. It was one I couldn’t put down!
I alternately read and listened to the story. Kate Hanford did a wonderful job performing both female and male voices. She had a steady, calm voice that fit right in with Wren taking all the hits while remaining calm and clear headed. It was a nice feature to have Eric Meyers read his emails and texts to Wren. I listened at my usual 1.5x normal speed.
A copy was kindly provided by St. Martin's Press and Macmillan Audio in exchange for an honest review.
September 10, 2023
this book was just quite frankly not for me. maybe I’m not the target audience or this is not the kind of story for me but I didn’t like this. the twist in the second half really irritated me considering the guy she almost married was such dog shit. I felt the dialogue was bland and it was a bit too fast paced. I also didn’t like that the fmc was forcing him to tell his whole life story right away just because she did. it just wasn’t for me. thank you to netgalley for this arc.
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