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Fierce Country: The Untold Story of Three Women Who Ignited America's Love for the Wild
The inspiring, untold story of three incredible women who spearheaded recreation, conservation and resilience in America’s most beloved landscapes, for readers of Pam Houston and David Grann
In the spring of 1945, when just a handful of people had been through the Grand Canyon in boats, Georgie White jumped into the river in just a lifejacket and swam through the rapids. She spent the rest of her life bringing people through the canyon, kickstarting river running and the recreation industry.
While Georgie was guiding the river, pioneering wilderness guide Anne LaBastille protected endangered species and predicted the impacts of climate change from her isolated, off-grid cabin in the Adirondacks. Meanwhile, groundbreaking powder skier Dolores LaChapelle was developing an environmental philosophy that shaped everything from the radical environmental movement of the ‘70s to modern conservation ethics.
All three women were obsessed with the places they love and unwilling to compromise about being outside. They were relentless and revolutionary. But they were largely ignored except in small circles.
Now, outdoor journalist and celebrated author of Powder Days Heather Hansman goes deep into three rugged American landscapes to bring these women’s fascinating lives to the forefront of the outdoor movement, affirming the rightful place in the larger story of an evolving American wild.
In the spring of 1945, when just a handful of people had been through the Grand Canyon in boats, Georgie White jumped into the river in just a lifejacket and swam through the rapids. She spent the rest of her life bringing people through the canyon, kickstarting river running and the recreation industry.
While Georgie was guiding the river, pioneering wilderness guide Anne LaBastille protected endangered species and predicted the impacts of climate change from her isolated, off-grid cabin in the Adirondacks. Meanwhile, groundbreaking powder skier Dolores LaChapelle was developing an environmental philosophy that shaped everything from the radical environmental movement of the ‘70s to modern conservation ethics.
All three women were obsessed with the places they love and unwilling to compromise about being outside. They were relentless and revolutionary. But they were largely ignored except in small circles.
Now, outdoor journalist and celebrated author of Powder Days Heather Hansman goes deep into three rugged American landscapes to bring these women’s fascinating lives to the forefront of the outdoor movement, affirming the rightful place in the larger story of an evolving American wild.
320 pages, Hardcover
First published July 14, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews
November 20, 2025
I love these women.
Read
March 11, 2026A thoroughly enjoyable read. On the surface, Fierce Country is the story of an unlikely trio -- a daredevil, a hermit, and a philosopher -- but it's also the story of the essential tension between conservation and recreation, and the intense pain of watching a place you love change and be changed. Like Georgie on the river and Dolores on the slopes, Hansman chooses her line and navigates it skillfully, in spare, muscular prose.
July 27, 2026
Heather’s books are my favorite books <3 She has such a gift for intertwining personal stories, emotions, and reflections with scientific and historical narratives. This one captivated me through all three stories, and I found connections with the author’s and subjects’ stories alike. I am grateful for the multitudes we contain, the challenges of living a life outdoors, and the opportunities to connect with others through it all.
“If you just think about landscapes as a canvas for recreation, and think about protecting them just for that, then you’re still stuck in a colonial, anthropocentric, extractive mindset…” (270)
“If you just think about landscapes as a canvas for recreation, and think about protecting them just for that, then you’re still stuck in a colonial, anthropocentric, extractive mindset…” (270)
July 28, 2026
In Fierce Country: The Untold Story of Three Women Who Ignited America's Love for the Wild, Heather Hansman tells the stories of three outdoors women who loved the area in which they lived and worked and became concerned about the environment.
The women Georgie White, Anne LaBastille and Dolores LaChapelle all worked on being recognized equally to men in their fields and faced hostility because of it. Georgie White was one of the first to lead river boat trips through the Grand Canyon, Anne LaBastille was an environmental scientist who lived as a hermit in a cabin in the Adirondacks for much of her life and Dolores LaChapelle was a powder snow skier who philosophized about deep ecology. Both Georgie White and Dolores' story is set firmly in the West.
Hansman weaves their stories with strands about history, environmental and women's issue with her own personal story. I found it all to be well done and interesting.
The women Georgie White, Anne LaBastille and Dolores LaChapelle all worked on being recognized equally to men in their fields and faced hostility because of it. Georgie White was one of the first to lead river boat trips through the Grand Canyon, Anne LaBastille was an environmental scientist who lived as a hermit in a cabin in the Adirondacks for much of her life and Dolores LaChapelle was a powder snow skier who philosophized about deep ecology. Both Georgie White and Dolores' story is set firmly in the West.
Hansman weaves their stories with strands about history, environmental and women's issue with her own personal story. I found it all to be well done and interesting.
Read
July 28, 2026This was a well done, inspiring look at three women whose contributions to outdoor recreation, conservation, and ecology far surpass their level of recognition throughout the U.S. Writing in narrative nonfiction style, Heather Hansman gives us a well-rounded look at each of the three subjects. We learn about the origins of their connection to the outdoors, their groundbreaking accomplishments, and a bit about their personalities (for better or worse).
The author does a nice job weaving in her own experiences as an outdoorswoman and her thoughts on each woman's legacy, along with historical information from the relevant time periods and regions. The societal norms, dismissive attitudes, and outright sexism that each woman faced make their stories that much more inspiring. One of the strengths of the book is the way this aspect is discussed right alongside the rest of the story, quietly underscoring how much it was a part of each woman's journey rather than addressing it in a more heavy-handed way. The latter would have served to distract from each woman's story, pulling focus from their accomplishments and humanity onto the barriers they faced instead (at least IMHO).
After reading Fierce Country I'm motivated to learn more about each woman and to be even more appreciative of the connection I feel during my outdoor activities.
The author does a nice job weaving in her own experiences as an outdoorswoman and her thoughts on each woman's legacy, along with historical information from the relevant time periods and regions. The societal norms, dismissive attitudes, and outright sexism that each woman faced make their stories that much more inspiring. One of the strengths of the book is the way this aspect is discussed right alongside the rest of the story, quietly underscoring how much it was a part of each woman's journey rather than addressing it in a more heavy-handed way. The latter would have served to distract from each woman's story, pulling focus from their accomplishments and humanity onto the barriers they faced instead (at least IMHO).
After reading Fierce Country I'm motivated to learn more about each woman and to be even more appreciative of the connection I feel during my outdoor activities.
July 29, 2026
Fierce Country looks at the lives of three outdoorswomen you probably haven't heard of - Georgie White, Anne LaBastille, and Dolores LaChapelle. Each was a trailblazer in her own way - White in guiding rafting trips down the Grand Canyon, LaBastille in her work in the Adirondacks, and LaChapelle for her powder skiing and work in the Colorado mountains. Hansman explores both their lives and experiences as well as the connections between outdoor recreation and conservation. Interwoven in this are Hansman's personal experiences with the outdoors and what drives her connection with the natural world. I appreciated that the author doesn't gloss over the aspects of each woman's character that might be perceived as negative. It does stick out to me, though, that we have to defend that women can be successful, influential, and multi-faceted in a way we rarely see someone feel the need to do with men. All in all, this hit a sweet spot for me - these women were inspiring, each in their own way. All of them made me want to get back outside.
July 28, 2026
Hansman’s beautiful writing and highly personal story telling brings these 3 complex women to full-color life with all their strengths and frailties. She pays tribute to their passion for the out-of-doors and their contributions to the environmental movement that are still terribly relevant to our lives today. She also explores the lens through which we view our heroines, asking who gets to tell their stories, and how do we judge assertive women leaders in a world traditionally dominated by men.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I received an advance listening copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
This was exactly my kind of nonfiction for several reasons. First, I love books in which the author becomes part of the narrative, and Heather Hansman's decision to retrace the paths of the three women she profiles adds an autobiographical layer that makes the book feel personal. Second, I am always drawn to biographies that rescue overlooked women from the margins of history. And finally, I love traveling vicariously through books, especially when they take me into landscapes I may never experience firsthand.
After being swept into Georgie White's adventures on the Colorado River, I honestly didn't expect the next sections to capture my imagination quite as completely. They did. Anne LaBastille's determined pursuit of solitude in the Adirondacks was every bit as compelling as the rapids of the Grand Canyon. Like Hansman, I found myself reflecting on the contrast between LaBastille's hard-won isolation and the far more performative solitude of Henry David Thoreau at Walden Pond. By the time I reached Dolores LaChapelle, I was equally invested despite never having skied a day in my life. Her experiences on the slopes became the foundation for a forward-thinking environmental philosophy that is still relevant today.
What I appreciated most, however, was Hansman's refusal to turn these women into untouchable heroes. She clearly admires them, but she also presents the traits that frustrated colleagues, complicated relationships, or undermined their own causes. By allowing them to remain messy and contradictory, Hansman makes their accomplishments feel all the more extraordinary.
The audiobook is elevated by Kimberly M. Wetherell's narration. I was already familiar with her from Susie Dumond's novels, and she proves equally adept at nonfiction. She conveys Hansman's curiosity, frustration, admiration, and wonder with a natural ease that never feels performative. Of course, it is Hansman's evocative prose that creates such vivid scenes, but Wetherell brings those words to life with warmth and conviction.
Like Hansman, I began this book knowing very little about Georgie White, Anne LaBastille, or Dolores LaChapelle. By the end, I wanted to seek out their own writings, learn more about their lives, and continue exploring the environmental ideas Hansman introduces along the way. I love works of nonfiction that leave me with a sense of curiosity; to me, that it is the mark of a successful book.
This was exactly my kind of nonfiction for several reasons. First, I love books in which the author becomes part of the narrative, and Heather Hansman's decision to retrace the paths of the three women she profiles adds an autobiographical layer that makes the book feel personal. Second, I am always drawn to biographies that rescue overlooked women from the margins of history. And finally, I love traveling vicariously through books, especially when they take me into landscapes I may never experience firsthand.
After being swept into Georgie White's adventures on the Colorado River, I honestly didn't expect the next sections to capture my imagination quite as completely. They did. Anne LaBastille's determined pursuit of solitude in the Adirondacks was every bit as compelling as the rapids of the Grand Canyon. Like Hansman, I found myself reflecting on the contrast between LaBastille's hard-won isolation and the far more performative solitude of Henry David Thoreau at Walden Pond. By the time I reached Dolores LaChapelle, I was equally invested despite never having skied a day in my life. Her experiences on the slopes became the foundation for a forward-thinking environmental philosophy that is still relevant today.
What I appreciated most, however, was Hansman's refusal to turn these women into untouchable heroes. She clearly admires them, but she also presents the traits that frustrated colleagues, complicated relationships, or undermined their own causes. By allowing them to remain messy and contradictory, Hansman makes their accomplishments feel all the more extraordinary.
The audiobook is elevated by Kimberly M. Wetherell's narration. I was already familiar with her from Susie Dumond's novels, and she proves equally adept at nonfiction. She conveys Hansman's curiosity, frustration, admiration, and wonder with a natural ease that never feels performative. Of course, it is Hansman's evocative prose that creates such vivid scenes, but Wetherell brings those words to life with warmth and conviction.
Like Hansman, I began this book knowing very little about Georgie White, Anne LaBastille, or Dolores LaChapelle. By the end, I wanted to seek out their own writings, learn more about their lives, and continue exploring the environmental ideas Hansman introduces along the way. I love works of nonfiction that leave me with a sense of curiosity; to me, that it is the mark of a successful book.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
I love meeting, talking to and reading about ladies who have went against the norm to pave the way for other women (whether they wanted to or not) and bring attention to the nature around us.
Fierce Country focused on three ladies; Georgie who guided the wild rapids of the Grand Canyon, Anne who saw climate change happening right in front of her and attempted to save endangered species, and finally Dolores who revolutionized skiing and brought attention to environmental ethics.
What I thought was amazing was that throughout the novel we got these amazing achievements that the ladies went through, but also the complications of their life. Whether that being; hard to work with, stubborn, not really being uplifting to other females, stalked or complicated relationships it all made them seem like normal ladies all the while still paving the path for others.
I work with a lady, who is in her 70s, and she told me stories about riding mountain bikes in the Wasatch Mountains when ladies didn't do such a thing, she was a single mother putting herself through school and she is also an avid skier and she reminded me a lot of Dolores with sprinkling of the other ladies. I am very grateful that she has and still does take me under her wing, uplifts me and pushes me to be a better version of myself.
I am not really a river rafting person, but I have been to the Grand Canyon and just listening to Georgie's story really made me miss that place. I should really go back. While listening to Dolores's story it made me laugh because I have heard stories of when it was just Alta and the times before Snowbird and it makes me a little jealous now that I live in SLC.
Overall I had a good time with this book and really learned some amazing history
Fierce Country focused on three ladies; Georgie who guided the wild rapids of the Grand Canyon, Anne who saw climate change happening right in front of her and attempted to save endangered species, and finally Dolores who revolutionized skiing and brought attention to environmental ethics.
What I thought was amazing was that throughout the novel we got these amazing achievements that the ladies went through, but also the complications of their life. Whether that being; hard to work with, stubborn, not really being uplifting to other females, stalked or complicated relationships it all made them seem like normal ladies all the while still paving the path for others.
I work with a lady, who is in her 70s, and she told me stories about riding mountain bikes in the Wasatch Mountains when ladies didn't do such a thing, she was a single mother putting herself through school and she is also an avid skier and she reminded me a lot of Dolores with sprinkling of the other ladies. I am very grateful that she has and still does take me under her wing, uplifts me and pushes me to be a better version of myself.
I am not really a river rafting person, but I have been to the Grand Canyon and just listening to Georgie's story really made me miss that place. I should really go back. While listening to Dolores's story it made me laugh because I have heard stories of when it was just Alta and the times before Snowbird and it makes me a little jealous now that I live in SLC.
Overall I had a good time with this book and really learned some amazing history
Review of advance copy received from Edelweiss+
Thanks to NetGalley, Edelweiss, Hanover Square Press and Harlequin Audio for the digital copy of this book; I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I’m so glad I live in the time I do, when women are finally getting their due, instead of reading white male-centric histories like what we grew up on. I love digging into the as yet untold stories of women in history who did great things. Fierce Country talks about some female pioneers wo defied cultural and societal norms to shape American civic or natural landscapes. The women featured in Fierce Country were doing their part to contribute to society and the country as a whole.
Ostensibly, Fierce Country is a biographical look at three women who loved nature, but there’s a lot of study about female identity in society and culture, a lot on conservationism (showing that John Muir and Theodore Roosevelt weren’t the only ones who wanted to protect the land), and in general, how we treat the earth as a whole.
The women featured aren’t lionized in any way, and let’s be real, they had rough, tough lives that weren’t easy by any stretch, in part, because of their path in life. And even though this is a celebratory book about women who defied convention, Fierce Country also shows how the women didn’t always accomplish what they intended.
I listened to the audiobook, and Kimberly M. Wetherell is a really good narrator. There were times where I thought the book dragged a little, but it wasn’t as bad as it could have been because of the engaging narration.
I’m so glad I live in the time I do, when women are finally getting their due, instead of reading white male-centric histories like what we grew up on. I love digging into the as yet untold stories of women in history who did great things. Fierce Country talks about some female pioneers wo defied cultural and societal norms to shape American civic or natural landscapes. The women featured in Fierce Country were doing their part to contribute to society and the country as a whole.
Ostensibly, Fierce Country is a biographical look at three women who loved nature, but there’s a lot of study about female identity in society and culture, a lot on conservationism (showing that John Muir and Theodore Roosevelt weren’t the only ones who wanted to protect the land), and in general, how we treat the earth as a whole.
The women featured aren’t lionized in any way, and let’s be real, they had rough, tough lives that weren’t easy by any stretch, in part, because of their path in life. And even though this is a celebratory book about women who defied convention, Fierce Country also shows how the women didn’t always accomplish what they intended.
I listened to the audiobook, and Kimberly M. Wetherell is a really good narrator. There were times where I thought the book dragged a little, but it wasn’t as bad as it could have been because of the engaging narration.
June 15, 2026
Thank you NetGalley, HTP Books, and The Hive for the advanced copy of this e-book (all opinions are mine)!
This was such an insightful read! I’ve been challenging myself to read outside of my typical genre this year so this seemed like the perfect fit for me to try something new. As many people know, I love to learn about nature, ecosystems, and conservation. Add a little feminism and some environmental baddies and I’m all for it!
I loved how this was a book with stories within a story; the author did a great job of complimenting her own thoughts and adventures with the stories of women in conservation before her. I enjoyed every bit of it and thought the author’s writing style was engaging enough to keep me entertained; something I sometimes struggle with in this genre.
Most of all, I love learning new things and I really learned so much valuable information from this book. Exploring how hard women in conservation had to fight for their place in the environmental world, pieces on National Parks systems, balancing motherhood and research, and more.. each of the three women this book focused on had a different niche so we could explore a broad range of topics with the author.
If you’re interested in fierce environmental women warriors, enjoy learning about conservation, connecting to nature, and love an outdoorsy adventure, this book might be for you! Thanks again to HTP Books, NetGalley, and The Hive, Fierce Country releases July 14th.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This was so well done. On the surface, it’s a biography of three women who loved the wilderness, but at its core, there’s also so much good insight on conservationism, female identity, and how we interact with the land around us.
My favorite part of this book was that Heather Hansman doesn’t look away from the less pleasant aspects of these women’s lives. So often in historical stories about women, the subjects tend to be portrayed as infallible and one-note. In Fierce Country, though, she spends a considerable amount of time talking about challenges with each woman’s legacy. She doesn’t pretend they had to be perfect or that they had everything figured out. She highlights their contributions and also directly mentions where they fell short with their beliefs or actions.
She also did a really great job of contextualizing their roles and experiences in their area of the wilderness with relevant history of the feminist movement, which was helpful for me as a reader too to think about the society they were operating in.
4.5 rounded down just because at times it did drag a bit, but overall, I really liked this one and am looking forward to reading more of her reporting!
Thanks to NetGalley and Harlequin Audio for the ALC!
My favorite part of this book was that Heather Hansman doesn’t look away from the less pleasant aspects of these women’s lives. So often in historical stories about women, the subjects tend to be portrayed as infallible and one-note. In Fierce Country, though, she spends a considerable amount of time talking about challenges with each woman’s legacy. She doesn’t pretend they had to be perfect or that they had everything figured out. She highlights their contributions and also directly mentions where they fell short with their beliefs or actions.
She also did a really great job of contextualizing their roles and experiences in their area of the wilderness with relevant history of the feminist movement, which was helpful for me as a reader too to think about the society they were operating in.
4.5 rounded down just because at times it did drag a bit, but overall, I really liked this one and am looking forward to reading more of her reporting!
Thanks to NetGalley and Harlequin Audio for the ALC!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Arizona, New York/Guadalupe, and Colorado
This non-fiction book about three women who fiercely loved the outdoors is broken into their individual stories. We have Georgie who raffs the Grand Canyon, we have Ann who studies the ecosystems in the Adirondack mountains and bird species in Guadalupe and Dolores, who is an avid skier and environmentalist in Colorado.
My quest this year is to read books all about the United States in honor for their 250th birthday and to also read one book revolving around each of the national parks so thank you NetGalley for giving me this opportunity.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book and the stories that were told because these women were remarkable in their own right and they deserve to have their life's work and admiration, documented, and shared. Sometimes the stories that don't make the huge headlines have the longest lasting impact and their stories are ones. I'm going to remember.
Life if much more appreciated when nature is involved and their stories reinforce that. It sure would be a better place if everyone championed one cause for the environment!
This non-fiction book about three women who fiercely loved the outdoors is broken into their individual stories. We have Georgie who raffs the Grand Canyon, we have Ann who studies the ecosystems in the Adirondack mountains and bird species in Guadalupe and Dolores, who is an avid skier and environmentalist in Colorado.
My quest this year is to read books all about the United States in honor for their 250th birthday and to also read one book revolving around each of the national parks so thank you NetGalley for giving me this opportunity.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book and the stories that were told because these women were remarkable in their own right and they deserve to have their life's work and admiration, documented, and shared. Sometimes the stories that don't make the huge headlines have the longest lasting impact and their stories are ones. I'm going to remember.
Life if much more appreciated when nature is involved and their stories reinforce that. It sure would be a better place if everyone championed one cause for the environment!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
We love a feminist history!! Especially when it comes to niche topics that men have dominated for centuries!!
As someone who has read a considerable amount about the wilderness, from the southwest to the Appalachians, I had heard about many of the men mentioned in this book before. However, I had no clue about the women that were exposing Americans to the great outdoors alongside them. I loved that the women Hansman selected to include were spread out across the country, making the at least something from each of the stories relatable to a majority of American readers. I also loved the way she humanized each of these women as she told their stories; they read like historical fiction as we followed them on their adventures and no aspect of their stories was off limits. We learned about the great contributions each made, as well as the things that were not so great (and usually reckless!!) that they did. This would be an excellent read for those with an interest in 20th century history or the outdoors, as well as those that are just interested in reading about strong women!
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC of the audio version of this title!
As someone who has read a considerable amount about the wilderness, from the southwest to the Appalachians, I had heard about many of the men mentioned in this book before. However, I had no clue about the women that were exposing Americans to the great outdoors alongside them. I loved that the women Hansman selected to include were spread out across the country, making the at least something from each of the stories relatable to a majority of American readers. I also loved the way she humanized each of these women as she told their stories; they read like historical fiction as we followed them on their adventures and no aspect of their stories was off limits. We learned about the great contributions each made, as well as the things that were not so great (and usually reckless!!) that they did. This would be an excellent read for those with an interest in 20th century history or the outdoors, as well as those that are just interested in reading about strong women!
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC of the audio version of this title!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
A fascinating and inspiring look at three women who helped shape the way people experience and think about the outdoors, even if history rarely gave them the spotlight they deserved.
Heather Hansman weaves together the lives of Georgie White, Anne LaBastille, and Dolores LaChapelle through their deep connection to the wild landscapes they loved, while also exploring the complicated balance between recreation, conservation, and human impact on nature.
They are passionate, stubborn, complicated people who were determined to live life on their own terms. Hansman clearly put an incredible amount of research into understanding not only who they were, but also the environments and movements that shaped them.
It was an engaging and thoughtful read that made me want to learn more about all three women and the legacy they left behind. A compelling blend of biography, environmental history, and adventure writing.
Thank you so much Heather Hansman, Hanover Square Press, and NetGalley for the #gifted earc.
All opinions are my own 🖤
Heather Hansman weaves together the lives of Georgie White, Anne LaBastille, and Dolores LaChapelle through their deep connection to the wild landscapes they loved, while also exploring the complicated balance between recreation, conservation, and human impact on nature.
They are passionate, stubborn, complicated people who were determined to live life on their own terms. Hansman clearly put an incredible amount of research into understanding not only who they were, but also the environments and movements that shaped them.
It was an engaging and thoughtful read that made me want to learn more about all three women and the legacy they left behind. A compelling blend of biography, environmental history, and adventure writing.
Thank you so much Heather Hansman, Hanover Square Press, and NetGalley for the #gifted earc.
All opinions are my own 🖤
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Shoutout Women! Shoutout Conservation! Shoutout Feminism! Shoutout Nature!
This book is pure magic. The research is well done and captivating, and the voice of the author is clear and passionate. I could tell the author put so much love and time into writing this book. I enjoyed learning about these badass women, about the history of the places they entered, and about different social and ecological issues they brought awareness to, whether they meant to or not.
Each section of the book felt really distinct. It was a great choice to choose women who fit into different niches- it gave the opportunity to learn about so many different places and experiences and the different balancing games between conservative and recreation that each had faced.
I also really admire the way the author points out where she disagrees with certain opinions or actions of the women she is telling us about. It really humanizes both the women and the author into people who are real and tangible and not just a story or legend.
Now I want to go touch grass and swim in the river!
This book is pure magic. The research is well done and captivating, and the voice of the author is clear and passionate. I could tell the author put so much love and time into writing this book. I enjoyed learning about these badass women, about the history of the places they entered, and about different social and ecological issues they brought awareness to, whether they meant to or not.
Each section of the book felt really distinct. It was a great choice to choose women who fit into different niches- it gave the opportunity to learn about so many different places and experiences and the different balancing games between conservative and recreation that each had faced.
I also really admire the way the author points out where she disagrees with certain opinions or actions of the women she is telling us about. It really humanizes both the women and the author into people who are real and tangible and not just a story or legend.
Now I want to go touch grass and swim in the river!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This is the biography of 3 different women who chose to live independently in the wilds. Georgie White - who was a pioneer of rafting in the Grand Canyon, Anne LaBastille - who lived 'as a hermit' on a lake in New York's Adirondack Park, and Delores LaChapelle - who was an elite powder snow skier. I found this book to be fascinating and I enjoyed the author's descriptions of her own experiences in nature and her quests to learn more about these women. I'm a person who loves to spend time outdoors and learning about the environment around me - so these women resonated with me. I also appreciated that the author didn't sugarcoat their lives, but showed both their strengths and their struggles and blunders. I think the stories about these women will connect with readers who are interested in adventure, history, and independent women. Thank you to NetGalley for and advanced copy in return for my honest opinion.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thank you Heather Hansman, NetGalley, and the publisher for allowing me to listen to this book in exchange for my honest review.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
The vibes of this book is kind of like a “Eat, Pray, Love” situation but looking for female role models/trailblazers. It was overall an enjoyable read. I liked learning about the 3 different women;: Georgie, Anne and Dolores. (I listened, so I’m unsure about the spelling). I also liked the crossover of the author talking about their opinion and viewpoint of what was happening during the times that these women were pioneers for eco-awareness in their various obsessions/loves.
This book is a four star for me, because sometimes the info dump was a bit dull. It didn’t always last long, but I felt myself getting a bit glassy eyed. It felt like bullet points instead of a flowing story. But it isn’t that way the whole way through, and overall this was an enjoyable and educational read.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
The vibes of this book is kind of like a “Eat, Pray, Love” situation but looking for female role models/trailblazers. It was overall an enjoyable read. I liked learning about the 3 different women;: Georgie, Anne and Dolores. (I listened, so I’m unsure about the spelling). I also liked the crossover of the author talking about their opinion and viewpoint of what was happening during the times that these women were pioneers for eco-awareness in their various obsessions/loves.
This book is a four star for me, because sometimes the info dump was a bit dull. It didn’t always last long, but I felt myself getting a bit glassy eyed. It felt like bullet points instead of a flowing story. But it isn’t that way the whole way through, and overall this was an enjoyable and educational read.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Heather Hansman shines a light on three remarkable women whose work helped shape conservation and the outdoor world, while never pretending they were perfect. I appreciated that this wasn't just a celebration of their accomplishments—it also explored their flaws, complicated relationships, and the barriers they faced in male-dominated spaces. It made each story feel more honest and human.
I listened to the audiobook, and Kimberly M. Wetherell's narration was excellent. She brought warmth, curiosity, and emotion to the material, making what could have felt like a straightforward history lesson much more engaging. The narration kept me invested even during some of the slower, more information-heavy sections.
If you enjoy nonfiction about overlooked women in history, conservation, or the outdoors, this is a worthwhile listen. Thank you to Heather Hansman, Harlequin Audio, and NetGalley for the advance listening copy.
I listened to the audiobook, and Kimberly M. Wetherell's narration was excellent. She brought warmth, curiosity, and emotion to the material, making what could have felt like a straightforward history lesson much more engaging. The narration kept me invested even during some of the slower, more information-heavy sections.
If you enjoy nonfiction about overlooked women in history, conservation, or the outdoors, this is a worthwhile listen. Thank you to Heather Hansman, Harlequin Audio, and NetGalley for the advance listening copy.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Many thanks to NetGalley for the eARC of this book.
This one was 3.5 stars rounded up to 4 for me. I really enjoyed the depth that Hansman went to in researching and understanding these three fascinating and varied women. While the outdoors is their common thread, their individual situations are unique and interesting.
I admired the fact that Hansman wasn't afraid to cover the soaring achievements as well as some of the flaws in her subjects as well. It felt like she handled it in a way that wasn't slamming the women, but also wasn't naively glorifying them either.
I have a love/hate relationship with authors injecting their personal journey into books like this. Sometimes it can be extremely distracting ("The Lady from the Black Lagoon" comes to mind), but here it inches toward that line, never quite crossing it all the way.
This one was 3.5 stars rounded up to 4 for me. I really enjoyed the depth that Hansman went to in researching and understanding these three fascinating and varied women. While the outdoors is their common thread, their individual situations are unique and interesting.
I admired the fact that Hansman wasn't afraid to cover the soaring achievements as well as some of the flaws in her subjects as well. It felt like she handled it in a way that wasn't slamming the women, but also wasn't naively glorifying them either.
I have a love/hate relationship with authors injecting their personal journey into books like this. Sometimes it can be extremely distracting ("The Lady from the Black Lagoon" comes to mind), but here it inches toward that line, never quite crossing it all the way.
June 26, 2026
I really enjoyed this one, especially being a Colorado native as many of the stories take place in or around Colorado. I'd never heard of these women before, and I loved learning about the impact they had on the outdoor world and conservation. Their stories were fascinating, and I found myself wanting to learn even more about each of them.
The only thing that kept this from being a five-star read for me was that I occasionally got a little lost. The author weaves her own experiences into the biographies, and there were times when I had to stop and remember whether I was following the narrator's story or the story of one of the women she was writing about.
Even so, I thought it was a really interesting and inspiring read. If you enjoy nonfiction about overlooked historical figures, the outdoors, or conservation, this is definitely worth picking up.
The only thing that kept this from being a five-star read for me was that I occasionally got a little lost. The author weaves her own experiences into the biographies, and there were times when I had to stop and remember whether I was following the narrator's story or the story of one of the women she was writing about.
Even so, I thought it was a really interesting and inspiring read. If you enjoy nonfiction about overlooked historical figures, the outdoors, or conservation, this is definitely worth picking up.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thanks to Heather Hansman, I have three new imperfect heroes to shape my understanding of those who have contributed to America's outdoor exploration, conservation and recreation industries. In Fierce Country, Hansman chronicles how critical Georgie White, Anne LaBastille, and Dolores LaChapelle were to their respective crafts, without excusing them of their more abrasive qualities. By threading her own experiences through these women's stories, Hansman probes ideas of moral absolutism, community, and representation. What a gift it is to now conjure three new- female!- names to list next to the likes of Abbey, Thoreau, and Engen.
Thanks to Heather Hansman, I have three new imperfect heroes to shape my understanding of those who have contributed to America's outdoor exploration, conservation and recreation industries. In Fierce Country, Hansman chronicles how critical Georgie White, Anne LaBastille, and Dolores LaChapelle were to their respective crafts, without excusing them of their more abrasive qualities. By threading her own experiences through these women's stories, Hansman probes ideas of moral absolutism, community, and representation. What a gift it is to now conjure three new- female!- names to list next to the likes of Abbey, Thoreau, and Engen.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Hansman explores three different women's relationships to nature and conservation in Fierce Country: Georgie White, a pioneering rafter in the Grand Canyon; Anne LaBastille, a conservationist and writer in the remote Adirondacks; and Dolores LaChapelle, a backcountry skiier and environmental philosopher. The second part (about LaBastille) resonated the most with me, though maybe that's the east coaster in me. After reading parts two and three, part one felt a little out of place, since it lacked the conservationist bent. I also would have loved Hansman to dive into the three women's access to the outdoors as a result of their racial privilege.
A neat read for anyone interested in women's history, the outdoors, or both. Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC!
A neat read for anyone interested in women's history, the outdoors, or both. Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
3.5 stars
I received an advance audio copy from NetGalley, my review is my own.
Overall I enjoyed this look into the lives of three women who were trailblazers in conservation and the respectful use of the outdoors. Two of the women were not particularly likable, but their stories were still very interesting. I really appreciated their courage in defying the male-dominated world of outdoor guiding and conservation. The author made sure to highlight the mistreatment they received, whether overt sexual harassment or more subtle forms of sexism.
I recommend this book for anyone interested in conservation or strong women trailblazers.
I received an advance audio copy from NetGalley, my review is my own.
Overall I enjoyed this look into the lives of three women who were trailblazers in conservation and the respectful use of the outdoors. Two of the women were not particularly likable, but their stories were still very interesting. I really appreciated their courage in defying the male-dominated world of outdoor guiding and conservation. The author made sure to highlight the mistreatment they received, whether overt sexual harassment or more subtle forms of sexism.
I recommend this book for anyone interested in conservation or strong women trailblazers.
July 14, 2026
Thank you to Netgalley and Harlequin Trade for the advanced reader's copy of Fierce Country.
I really wanted to enjoy Fierce Country because I found the stories of the women featured throughout the book fascinating. Their experiences and perspectives were the parts that kept me reading and made me want to learn more. Unfortunately, the writing style just wasn't the right match for me. I wasn't as invested in the memoir portions from the author and found myself wishing the focus had stayed more on the women and their stories.
While this one didn't fully work for me, I think readers who enjoy memoir blended with cultural and historical exploration may have a different experience.
I really wanted to enjoy Fierce Country because I found the stories of the women featured throughout the book fascinating. Their experiences and perspectives were the parts that kept me reading and made me want to learn more. Unfortunately, the writing style just wasn't the right match for me. I wasn't as invested in the memoir portions from the author and found myself wishing the focus had stayed more on the women and their stories.
While this one didn't fully work for me, I think readers who enjoy memoir blended with cultural and historical exploration may have a different experience.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Heather Hansman does such a good job uplifting these 3 badass ladies' stories. I really like how she compared her own experiences, and reflections with Georgie, Anne and Dolores. She really brings to light how recreation and our outdoor experiences have changed and evolved over time -- with a common thread of adventure and love for our wild places. Truly inspiring.
Thank you Heather & NetGalley for and advanced copy in return for my honest opinion.
Thank you Heather & NetGalley for and advanced copy in return for my honest opinion.
July 8, 2026
This book simple did so much right. The audio is very well done. The subject matter was clearly well researched. The combination of nature, adventure, femininity & powerful messaging… flawlessly executed. This book felt down to earth & relatable & also meaningful & impactful. Perfect story telling about stories that need to be heard. This is a book I will think about long after finish it.
Big thanks to Netgalley & the publisher for allowing me to enjoy this.
Big thanks to Netgalley & the publisher for allowing me to enjoy this.
July 16, 2026
The inspiring, untold story of three incredible women who spearheaded recreation, conservation and resilience in America's most beloved landscapes…
This book is about three women who loved the outdoors and were so passionate about it in a time when it wasn’t “lady like” to do so. The author dives into each one’s story and tackles topics like conservation and feminism and highlighting the highs and lows each woman experienced. I would say this book is also educational and I definitely learned some things along the way too!
If you love books about women from history I think you will really enjoy this book!
This book is about three women who loved the outdoors and were so passionate about it in a time when it wasn’t “lady like” to do so. The author dives into each one’s story and tackles topics like conservation and feminism and highlighting the highs and lows each woman experienced. I would say this book is also educational and I definitely learned some things along the way too!
If you love books about women from history I think you will really enjoy this book!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
It's clear the author did her research on these trailblazing women. I did find that it went off on tangents a bit and dragged in places. I listened to the audiobook version and thought the narration was wonderfully done and the voice clear and engaged. 3.5 stars rounded up.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This book was about three strong independent women.
Each one pushes the boundaries of what society thought women should be doing. It was an interesting book. I thought it was descriptive but also a little wordy at times.
Each one pushes the boundaries of what society thought women should be doing. It was an interesting book. I thought it was descriptive but also a little wordy at times.
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