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Outlaw Trail #1
Ride the High Lonesome -- The Hanging
A man bent on revenge
A woman determined to survive
A land that knows no mercy
Meet the Men of the Outlaw Trail
When Kate Winters is left stranded and defenseless in outlaw country, she knows there's little chance she'll make it out alive...until she stumbles across a ruthless gang hanging a cowboy for his cattle. She waits until the outlaws are gone, desperate enough to claim the dead man's horse to make her escape—only to realize he's not dead after all.
Those outlaws should have made damn sure Luke Bowden was good and gone. Now he vows he'll have his revenge no matter the cost. But they're miles away from the nearest town, and the woman who saved his hide won't survive the ride back. He owes her his life—he owes her everything—and it doesn't take long before he's faced with a terrible choice: stand by Kate...or claim his revenge?
A woman determined to survive
A land that knows no mercy
Meet the Men of the Outlaw Trail
When Kate Winters is left stranded and defenseless in outlaw country, she knows there's little chance she'll make it out alive...until she stumbles across a ruthless gang hanging a cowboy for his cattle. She waits until the outlaws are gone, desperate enough to claim the dead man's horse to make her escape—only to realize he's not dead after all.
Those outlaws should have made damn sure Luke Bowden was good and gone. Now he vows he'll have his revenge no matter the cost. But they're miles away from the nearest town, and the woman who saved his hide won't survive the ride back. He owes her his life—he owes her everything—and it doesn't take long before he's faced with a terrible choice: stand by Kate...or claim his revenge?
320 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 26, 2019
190 people are currently reading
283 people want to read
About the author
Rosanne Bittner
85 books624 followersI am a USA-TODAY best-selling author with 41 years, 76 books, and numerous writing awards behind me. My major genre is historical romance. I have always written for standard publishers but am now writing strictly for Amazon so I have more freedom to write real history. My most recent publication is SHADOW TRAIL, the 6th book in my Outlaw Hearts series. I also wrote and published my first full-length contemporary story, DANCING BENEATH YOU, in September 2022, a romance involving mystery and a depiction of reservation life in the Badlands of South Dakota. My best sellers are my SAVAGE DESTINY series (7 books) and my OUTLAW HEARTS series. See my website (www.rosannebittner.com) for details on all my books - most available for Kindle and in print. I am known for great love stories filled with real history and high emotion. I have also written many Native American stories, all based on real history.
I love American history. For those of you who have not yet read my books, my stories are generally set in the American West of the 1800s and feature vividly described, historically accurate settings that span the US from Missouri to California, from Canada to Mexico. Many of my books portray the poignant history of our Native Americans, and though the characters are my own, I use real historical locations and events in all my novels. I have also written about the French & Indian wars, American Revolution, the War of 1812, the war with Mexico (the Alamo), and the Civil War.
National magazine ROMANTIC TIMES has called me the "Queen of Western Romance" and an "emotional powerhouse." My husband and I have traveled the west for nearly 40 years and I have visited just about every location mentioned in my books.
Visit my website at www.rosannebittner.com and my Facebook Author page. And be sure to join Rosanne Bittner's Heart of the West Street Team! Happy reading!
I love American history. For those of you who have not yet read my books, my stories are generally set in the American West of the 1800s and feature vividly described, historically accurate settings that span the US from Missouri to California, from Canada to Mexico. Many of my books portray the poignant history of our Native Americans, and though the characters are my own, I use real historical locations and events in all my novels. I have also written about the French & Indian wars, American Revolution, the War of 1812, the war with Mexico (the Alamo), and the Civil War.
National magazine ROMANTIC TIMES has called me the "Queen of Western Romance" and an "emotional powerhouse." My husband and I have traveled the west for nearly 40 years and I have visited just about every location mentioned in my books.
Visit my website at www.rosannebittner.com and my Facebook Author page. And be sure to join Rosanne Bittner's Heart of the West Street Team! Happy reading!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 84 reviews
dnf
December 1, 2019DNF no rating
I struggled so hard to like this book. I managed to get past halfway, but at that point in the story it only seemed to be getting worse so I had to admit defeat. The opening pages were promising, effectively pulling me into the story with no difficulty. The hero, Luke is dangling at the end of a noose as Kate fearfully stumbles upon the scene. Her traveling group had just been set upon by thieves and murderers, and she's been wandering in outlaw country all alone with nothing but the clothes on her back. Even though she's frightened about who she could be saving, she takes a risk and cuts Jake down. Unfortunately this is the peak of her bravery and she slides quickly into helpless, prissy female very quickly.
My problem isn't with her being shattered and in need of help after her party is attacked and brutally murdered in front of her. Let's face it, anyone would have a low rate of survival in this situation when they're in unfamiliar, dangerous territory. Kate's thoughts and actions were so illogical, and the inconsistency was a real problem. She's had so much unexpected death and tragedy in her life recently, and she doesn't really spare a thought about it. No, the things that really bothered (and deeply embarrassed) her were so ridiculous it was not to be believed.
Complaining about the effects of laudanum on her: “Now I know I’ll never drink whiskey. I’ll have you know I’ve never been drunk in my life.”
Having to tell Luke that she had to pee in the morning: Kate covered her eyes then, embarrassed at what she had to tell him. “I…I have to relieve myself.”
Toilet paper is humiliating as well, you know: ...he walked to his gear and fished out a package of Gayetty tissue paper. He handed it out to her. “Hang on to this, and I’ll carry you out.” Kate felt the color coming to her cheeks.
Throwing a childish, prudish, FIT after realizing Luke had to take off her clothing to save her infected leg: “Oh my God!” “It’s okay, Kate.” “No, it isn’t okay! I’m not even wearing any bloomers!” She pulled the blanket over her face. “What did you do?”
I wanted to throw my kindle in this moment. It's the second time she feared for her "virtue" when he'd never been anything but respectful and courteous. He just went out of his way to return to her with supplies, and took care of her injury, then she all but accused him of making sexual advances on her. REALLY??
Kate's leg injury was a major plot point that didn't make a bit of sense. We were told repeatedly that she "nursed" soldiers in the civil war and was very familiar with war wounds that led to amputation. Going by this information, she would have to be somewhat knowledgeable as well as capable in tending to her leg when it was badly hurt. Instead, she refused to look at her injury and just ignored it until passing out. If Luke hadn't come back and taken charge she would have been done for. She fawns all over him, repetitively telling him he's thought of everything. And how lucky she is to have a capable man around to take care of her!
The final line in the synopsis leads you to believe the plot centers around Luke making a choice between love or revenge. Well, this was answered within the first 25% in the book. Spoiler alert: he chose revenge. The fact that Luke left Kate in the cave overnight to do this made absolutely no sense. This cave is known to be used by criminals and he leaves her there all by herself instead of just taking her to town with him. I guess she would slow him down too much...? I don't see how if she just rode with him. After he returns, all I could think about was the fact that the majority of the book remained and I didn't see a point for the rest.
What happened next was repetitive and boring. Bad people came, they defended themselves, bad people came...you get the picture.
The love scenes between them were beyond cringy. I felt like I time traveled back to the 90s when I first started reading romance novels.
...he gently slid his fingers inside of her, drawing out the juices
...then he kissed her thighs and the hairs that hid that throbbing place that begged for more.
...his broad shoulders hovering over her as he took her and took her.
She could feel his fingers touching secret places, feel his warm breath against her most private part.
...she felt the power of his life pouring into her.
She felt such adoration and unconditional trust in this man after a week's time, and he couldn't even tell her he loved her at that point. The writing was beyond old-fashioned for me. How could I possibly root for a character who thinks like this:
Everything she did for him was in a wifely way, trusting his judgment and orders, caring about his physical welfare, wanting to feed him and keep his clothes clean and mended.
Yes, he gave her orders and she happily complied. Their dynamic was all a little bit nauseating. To wrap things up, both of them were inconsistent characters that fell flat. The story was riddled with plot holes, and I couldn't take anything seriously. There was a side character named Jake Harkner who was honestly more interesting than the hero. I did a little research and he is the protagonist from her Outlaw Hearts series, so fans of those books may be excited at his cameo. I wish I could have liked this book, but it was a total miss for me. Perhaps fans of her other series will find more to entertain them.
I struggled so hard to like this book. I managed to get past halfway, but at that point in the story it only seemed to be getting worse so I had to admit defeat. The opening pages were promising, effectively pulling me into the story with no difficulty. The hero, Luke is dangling at the end of a noose as Kate fearfully stumbles upon the scene. Her traveling group had just been set upon by thieves and murderers, and she's been wandering in outlaw country all alone with nothing but the clothes on her back. Even though she's frightened about who she could be saving, she takes a risk and cuts Jake down. Unfortunately this is the peak of her bravery and she slides quickly into helpless, prissy female very quickly.
My problem isn't with her being shattered and in need of help after her party is attacked and brutally murdered in front of her. Let's face it, anyone would have a low rate of survival in this situation when they're in unfamiliar, dangerous territory. Kate's thoughts and actions were so illogical, and the inconsistency was a real problem. She's had so much unexpected death and tragedy in her life recently, and she doesn't really spare a thought about it. No, the things that really bothered (and deeply embarrassed) her were so ridiculous it was not to be believed.
Complaining about the effects of laudanum on her: “Now I know I’ll never drink whiskey. I’ll have you know I’ve never been drunk in my life.”
Having to tell Luke that she had to pee in the morning: Kate covered her eyes then, embarrassed at what she had to tell him. “I…I have to relieve myself.”
Toilet paper is humiliating as well, you know: ...he walked to his gear and fished out a package of Gayetty tissue paper. He handed it out to her. “Hang on to this, and I’ll carry you out.” Kate felt the color coming to her cheeks.
Throwing a childish, prudish, FIT after realizing Luke had to take off her clothing to save her infected leg: “Oh my God!” “It’s okay, Kate.” “No, it isn’t okay! I’m not even wearing any bloomers!” She pulled the blanket over her face. “What did you do?”
I wanted to throw my kindle in this moment. It's the second time she feared for her "virtue" when he'd never been anything but respectful and courteous. He just went out of his way to return to her with supplies, and took care of her injury, then she all but accused him of making sexual advances on her. REALLY??
Kate's leg injury was a major plot point that didn't make a bit of sense. We were told repeatedly that she "nursed" soldiers in the civil war and was very familiar with war wounds that led to amputation. Going by this information, she would have to be somewhat knowledgeable as well as capable in tending to her leg when it was badly hurt. Instead, she refused to look at her injury and just ignored it until passing out. If Luke hadn't come back and taken charge she would have been done for. She fawns all over him, repetitively telling him he's thought of everything. And how lucky she is to have a capable man around to take care of her!
The final line in the synopsis leads you to believe the plot centers around Luke making a choice between love or revenge. Well, this was answered within the first 25% in the book. Spoiler alert: he chose revenge. The fact that Luke left Kate in the cave overnight to do this made absolutely no sense. This cave is known to be used by criminals and he leaves her there all by herself instead of just taking her to town with him. I guess she would slow him down too much...? I don't see how if she just rode with him. After he returns, all I could think about was the fact that the majority of the book remained and I didn't see a point for the rest.
What happened next was repetitive and boring. Bad people came, they defended themselves, bad people came...you get the picture.
The love scenes between them were beyond cringy. I felt like I time traveled back to the 90s when I first started reading romance novels.
...he gently slid his fingers inside of her, drawing out the juices
...then he kissed her thighs and the hairs that hid that throbbing place that begged for more.
...his broad shoulders hovering over her as he took her and took her.
She could feel his fingers touching secret places, feel his warm breath against her most private part.
...she felt the power of his life pouring into her.
She felt such adoration and unconditional trust in this man after a week's time, and he couldn't even tell her he loved her at that point. The writing was beyond old-fashioned for me. How could I possibly root for a character who thinks like this:
Everything she did for him was in a wifely way, trusting his judgment and orders, caring about his physical welfare, wanting to feed him and keep his clothes clean and mended.
Yes, he gave her orders and she happily complied. Their dynamic was all a little bit nauseating. To wrap things up, both of them were inconsistent characters that fell flat. The story was riddled with plot holes, and I couldn't take anything seriously. There was a side character named Jake Harkner who was honestly more interesting than the hero. I did a little research and he is the protagonist from her Outlaw Hearts series, so fans of those books may be excited at his cameo. I wish I could have liked this book, but it was a total miss for me. Perhaps fans of her other series will find more to entertain them.
August 17, 2019
I wrote this book and recommend it to anyone who loves real history and fabulous descriptions of America's "high country" in the Rocky Mountain foothills. RIDE THE HIGH LONESOME is the first book of my new Men of the Outlaw Trail series. It is coming November 26, 2019. Can't believe anyone wouldn't enjoy this story about a man and a woman thrown together when the heroine is lost in outlaw country and she finds the hero being hung! She saves his life, and an adventure and sensuous love story ensues between these two total strangers who "ride the high country" together. Through danger learn about survival and about true love between two consenting adults who know what they want and find it in each other. This is a very "Louis L'Amour-type story that takes place mostly in Lander, Wyoming.
November 1, 2019
It led with a hanging for two people desperate to survive in the hard, gritty frontier of the American West, but then it grew into something more if they were courageous enough to grab hold. Give me a hard fought story full of desperation and survival in the historic West paired with a romance pair that have to grow as individuals and work against a dangerous situation together and I'm pleased as punch.
Ride the High Lonesome opens on a woman dead on her feet happening upon a hanging. Only the man wasn't dead when the others left and that was their mistake and her chance to survive out in that wild untame land. Kate saves the stranger and reluctantly places her trust in Luke Bowden as they face many dangers. Trust comes as does love though she knows its unrequited because Luke will never trust another woman with his heart again.
Luke came home from the Civil War a burdened man, but ready to pick up with his sweetheart back home only to find her married to his own brother. Feeling betrayed by both, he came west to begin again if he can keep his stake against natural disaster and against the ruthless outlaws roaming the western trails of the high lonesome. Now, he has a hurt woman in his care that is teaching him that not all women are Bonnie. Maybe he can give her a chance if the outlaws he's after don't get him first.
This author's books don't shy away from setting her stories and describing with authenticity the reality of the hard, desperate life of the American Western Frontier after the war. Her characters are colorful and suited to the times coming from a cross section of people ever moving west looking for a new start- even the outlaws who are also varied with some shades of gray more gentleman than some non-outlaws all the way through true evil needing to be stopped. Her characters have to be strong or learn to be strong to sometimes face all she throws at them from natural elements and bad breaks to gun battles or other desperate fights to live. In this case, the demons of the past for Luke are as tough for him to combat as Kate facing men who want to rape and steal.
I was riveted much of the time though I confess that there were times when one or the other of them was being repetitively introspective over the same internal issues so I skimmed that now and then. I loved them as a couple though their romance stopped and started as external conflicts and personal issues had to be dealt with and for all the conflict, this was relatively angst-free compared to many of her older books. I enjoyed that they were not prim and were quite open with each other even with Luke denying deeper feelings. They worked together and made a great team after that first little stutter-start that had me giggling a bit at Kate's reaction to Luke seeing her in the all-together.
On a side note, Outlaw Hearts fans will enjoy the Jake Harker cameo with a scene that takes place during his first book. The author has promised this sort of fun cameo with several of her older series characters with each book in this new Outlaw Trail series.
All in all, I was well satisfied with this first in a new exciting western adventure romance series and look forward to each new story flowing from the pen. I can highly recommend this one to western historical romance fans who like spicy romance and gritty action set against an authentic historical backdrop.
My thanks to Sourcebooks Casablanca for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
Ride the High Lonesome opens on a woman dead on her feet happening upon a hanging. Only the man wasn't dead when the others left and that was their mistake and her chance to survive out in that wild untame land. Kate saves the stranger and reluctantly places her trust in Luke Bowden as they face many dangers. Trust comes as does love though she knows its unrequited because Luke will never trust another woman with his heart again.
Luke came home from the Civil War a burdened man, but ready to pick up with his sweetheart back home only to find her married to his own brother. Feeling betrayed by both, he came west to begin again if he can keep his stake against natural disaster and against the ruthless outlaws roaming the western trails of the high lonesome. Now, he has a hurt woman in his care that is teaching him that not all women are Bonnie. Maybe he can give her a chance if the outlaws he's after don't get him first.
This author's books don't shy away from setting her stories and describing with authenticity the reality of the hard, desperate life of the American Western Frontier after the war. Her characters are colorful and suited to the times coming from a cross section of people ever moving west looking for a new start- even the outlaws who are also varied with some shades of gray more gentleman than some non-outlaws all the way through true evil needing to be stopped. Her characters have to be strong or learn to be strong to sometimes face all she throws at them from natural elements and bad breaks to gun battles or other desperate fights to live. In this case, the demons of the past for Luke are as tough for him to combat as Kate facing men who want to rape and steal.
I was riveted much of the time though I confess that there were times when one or the other of them was being repetitively introspective over the same internal issues so I skimmed that now and then. I loved them as a couple though their romance stopped and started as external conflicts and personal issues had to be dealt with and for all the conflict, this was relatively angst-free compared to many of her older books. I enjoyed that they were not prim and were quite open with each other even with Luke denying deeper feelings. They worked together and made a great team after that first little stutter-start that had me giggling a bit at Kate's reaction to Luke seeing her in the all-together.
On a side note, Outlaw Hearts fans will enjoy the Jake Harker cameo with a scene that takes place during his first book. The author has promised this sort of fun cameo with several of her older series characters with each book in this new Outlaw Trail series.
All in all, I was well satisfied with this first in a new exciting western adventure romance series and look forward to each new story flowing from the pen. I can highly recommend this one to western historical romance fans who like spicy romance and gritty action set against an authentic historical backdrop.
My thanks to Sourcebooks Casablanca for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
November 9, 2019
**ARC provided by publisher in exchange for an honest review**
Ride the High Lonesome is a western historical romance that is mostly set in the wild country. Being stranded without a way to get around and food/water in this type of place means you are left for dead. The main characters are Kate Winters who is left stranded and defenseless in this outlaw country, and Luke who is being hanged after having his cattle stolen. Kate sees an opportunity to take this dead man's horse and supplies, but when she gets close she sees that the man hanging from the rope isn't dead yet. She does what I hope any person would do in this scenario, and cuts him down. I absolutely loved the development in their relationship. Obviously Kate is hesitant to fully trust this stranger, but she needs him if she wants to survive. I really loved that they were both taking care of each other. Kate is a very strong woman and took care of herself when needed. Luke is a proud and loyal man, but has been hurt in the past and doesn't want to open up his heart again.
"Letting herself feel too deeply for Luke would be to toy with the heart, and both of them had hearts that had already been broken by the war."
The western historical romance subgenre is one that always feels more than just a romance. Everything around it keeps me entertained and intrigued. There is always hints of suspense and action that elevates the story, and that was also the case for this book. In this wild country all you have is human interaction and it is impossible not to get to know someone very intimately. Which is important, because you are miles apart from civilization and knowing someones intentions is a matter of life and death. The development of the trust that was built between the characters was paced perfectly. It felt very natural. This was also the case for the love that development between them. Both Kate and Luke had their heart broken, but I was happy to see them find each other and heal. I would've wanted a longer epilogue that was set further in the future, but overall I am happy with the ending. I look forward to reading more books in the Outlaw Trail series. Also I can't finish this review without mentioning that I love the cover.
Ride the High Lonesome is a western historical romance that is mostly set in the wild country. Being stranded without a way to get around and food/water in this type of place means you are left for dead. The main characters are Kate Winters who is left stranded and defenseless in this outlaw country, and Luke who is being hanged after having his cattle stolen. Kate sees an opportunity to take this dead man's horse and supplies, but when she gets close she sees that the man hanging from the rope isn't dead yet. She does what I hope any person would do in this scenario, and cuts him down. I absolutely loved the development in their relationship. Obviously Kate is hesitant to fully trust this stranger, but she needs him if she wants to survive. I really loved that they were both taking care of each other. Kate is a very strong woman and took care of herself when needed. Luke is a proud and loyal man, but has been hurt in the past and doesn't want to open up his heart again.
"Letting herself feel too deeply for Luke would be to toy with the heart, and both of them had hearts that had already been broken by the war."
The western historical romance subgenre is one that always feels more than just a romance. Everything around it keeps me entertained and intrigued. There is always hints of suspense and action that elevates the story, and that was also the case for this book. In this wild country all you have is human interaction and it is impossible not to get to know someone very intimately. Which is important, because you are miles apart from civilization and knowing someones intentions is a matter of life and death. The development of the trust that was built between the characters was paced perfectly. It felt very natural. This was also the case for the love that development between them. Both Kate and Luke had their heart broken, but I was happy to see them find each other and heal. I would've wanted a longer epilogue that was set further in the future, but overall I am happy with the ending. I look forward to reading more books in the Outlaw Trail series. Also I can't finish this review without mentioning that I love the cover.
May 8, 2020
Kate Winters has spent three days wandering around all alone, after the wagon train she's traveling with is attacked by outlaws and she's the only survivor. She has very little chance of finding help, when by chance she stumbles across a gang hanging a cowboy so they can steal his cattle and she wisely stays hidden. Once they leave she notices the mans legs are still twitching and they didn't do a very good job of trying to hang him! She cuts him down, tends his wounds, he's the only person who can help her get to the closest town, he has a horse and with winter quickly approaching they have no time to waste.
Luke Bowden is furious that his cattle have been stolen, he paid good money for them and he's desperate to get them back. He's miles away from the nearest town called Lander, the lady who saved his life is hungry, weak, and she isn't up to traveling. He owes Kate for saving him, he takes her to a near by cave, he leaves her with enough food for three days, the plan is for him to find his cattle, sell them, kill the men who stole them and return for for her.
Ride The High Lonesome is set in the Wyoming Territory in the Rocky Mountain Foothills, it's wild, rugged country and the weather is very unpredictable. Kate is a widow her husband and father died fighting in the Civil War and Luke fought in the Civil War. Both have pasts, Luke's is more complicated, he's a bit wild like the high country, is Luke ready to settle down and can two people meet by chance make a future together?
It's been years since I have read a Western Historical Romance, this one is rather steamy, Kate and Luke certainly had some serious chemistry going on between them, it's a quick book to read, action packed and I gave it four stars. I have shared my review on Goodreads, Twitter, Edelweiss, Kobo and my blog. https://karrenreadsbooks.blogspot.com/
Luke Bowden is furious that his cattle have been stolen, he paid good money for them and he's desperate to get them back. He's miles away from the nearest town called Lander, the lady who saved his life is hungry, weak, and she isn't up to traveling. He owes Kate for saving him, he takes her to a near by cave, he leaves her with enough food for three days, the plan is for him to find his cattle, sell them, kill the men who stole them and return for for her.
Ride The High Lonesome is set in the Wyoming Territory in the Rocky Mountain Foothills, it's wild, rugged country and the weather is very unpredictable. Kate is a widow her husband and father died fighting in the Civil War and Luke fought in the Civil War. Both have pasts, Luke's is more complicated, he's a bit wild like the high country, is Luke ready to settle down and can two people meet by chance make a future together?
It's been years since I have read a Western Historical Romance, this one is rather steamy, Kate and Luke certainly had some serious chemistry going on between them, it's a quick book to read, action packed and I gave it four stars. I have shared my review on Goodreads, Twitter, Edelweiss, Kobo and my blog. https://karrenreadsbooks.blogspot.com/
January 14, 2020
I wanted to like this one more than I did because dagnabit, nobody seems to write westerns like this anymore. Dark, gritty, the threat of violence around every corner. Look, ranches and cutesy small towns are dandy, but the appeal to this sub genre for me has always been the life or death "stuff."
I found the writing repetitious at times and the dialogue stilted, but there's plenty of action and peril that kept me turning the pages. I was less enamored with the character development. The heroine goes from gumption to hand-wringing-needs-rescuing too much for my liking, and for someone who apparently nursed wounded soldiers during the Civil War, she's pretty darn ill-prepared for her own gunshot wound (which she survives because the hero saves her in the 11th hour).
I was also HIGHLY annoyed with the ending where the hero basically "tests" the heroine. Like, seriously dude? She saved your life twice, defended herself from a would-be rapist when she was alone, survived a wagon train massacre and mooned over you for the entire second half of the book and yet YOU STILL NEED TO "TEST" HER BECAUSE YOU HAVE TRUST ISSUES?!?!?! Ugh.
Not great, but not awful. And again, nobody seems to be writing westerns like this anymore. I'll read the next book in the series because of course I will....
I found the writing repetitious at times and the dialogue stilted, but there's plenty of action and peril that kept me turning the pages. I was less enamored with the character development. The heroine goes from gumption to hand-wringing-needs-rescuing too much for my liking, and for someone who apparently nursed wounded soldiers during the Civil War, she's pretty darn ill-prepared for her own gunshot wound (which she survives because the hero saves her in the 11th hour).
I was also HIGHLY annoyed with the ending where the hero basically "tests" the heroine. Like, seriously dude? She saved your life twice, defended herself from a would-be rapist when she was alone, survived a wagon train massacre and mooned over you for the entire second half of the book and yet YOU STILL NEED TO "TEST" HER BECAUSE YOU HAVE TRUST ISSUES?!?!?! Ugh.
Not great, but not awful. And again, nobody seems to be writing westerns like this anymore. I'll read the next book in the series because of course I will....
November 30, 2019
Thank you NetGalley and Sourcebooks Casablanca for an advanced copy. I voluntarily reviewed this book. All opinions expressed are my own.
Ride The High Lonesome
By: Roseanne Bittner
*REVIEW* 🌟🌟🌟🌟
Ride The High Lonesome is a story of survival. The West, for all that we have romanticized it, was actually a brutal inhospitable land. The heroine, Kate, is struggling to survive after an attack on the wagon train left her destitute and alone. She happens upon a hanging, and approaching the victim, Kate finds him still alive. She saves the life of this man, Luke. He is very much alive and bent on revenge. Kate and Luke make an agreement to help each other. Along the way, these virtual strangers begin to mean something more to one another. What will happen as they journey through this hardscrabble unforgiving land? Will Kate reach her destination and Luke exact his revenge? It is a story of epic adventure, thrills and drama. Kate and Luke are excellent characters, and I enjoyed reading their transformative experiences. Any fan of the era will enjoy this historical fiction read.
Ride The High Lonesome
By: Roseanne Bittner
*REVIEW* 🌟🌟🌟🌟
Ride The High Lonesome is a story of survival. The West, for all that we have romanticized it, was actually a brutal inhospitable land. The heroine, Kate, is struggling to survive after an attack on the wagon train left her destitute and alone. She happens upon a hanging, and approaching the victim, Kate finds him still alive. She saves the life of this man, Luke. He is very much alive and bent on revenge. Kate and Luke make an agreement to help each other. Along the way, these virtual strangers begin to mean something more to one another. What will happen as they journey through this hardscrabble unforgiving land? Will Kate reach her destination and Luke exact his revenge? It is a story of epic adventure, thrills and drama. Kate and Luke are excellent characters, and I enjoyed reading their transformative experiences. Any fan of the era will enjoy this historical fiction read.
December 5, 2019
An unforgiving, destitute land as far as the eye could see was all Kate Winter’s had to her name.
She was alive, panicked, but still alive, after the horrific attack.
Hanging, barely breathing with a little kick, was all the life that remained in Luke Bowden, until an Angel found him.
Two stranger’s brought together by fate in this wild, lawless land by a common bond.. Survival!
Rosanne Bittner is a master at creating lasting storylines, picturesque sceneries, and heroic couples who envelope her reader’s heart and soul, forever.
She was alive, panicked, but still alive, after the horrific attack.
Hanging, barely breathing with a little kick, was all the life that remained in Luke Bowden, until an Angel found him.
Two stranger’s brought together by fate in this wild, lawless land by a common bond.. Survival!
Rosanne Bittner is a master at creating lasting storylines, picturesque sceneries, and heroic couples who envelope her reader’s heart and soul, forever.
November 18, 2019
Ok read. I really liked it at first, then it just got melodramatic. I love you but I can’t love you. I love you but let me leave you so we really know we love each other?!? Of course the never ending shoot’em up and no one goes to jail. The push and pull between Luke and Kate took away from liking them. I wishe there was a tad more backstory on both. Oh well I dragged through it. Not my favorite by far.
Received an ARC from the publisher through NetGalley, for an honest review.
Received an ARC from the publisher through NetGalley, for an honest review.
November 25, 2019
One of my favorite authors ever Rosanne Bittner has once again done it again and in breathtakingly beautiful Rosanne Bittner style. I have loved Mrs Bittner books for 30 yrs now and I have never grown tired of her work. I Have read books by her untold multiple times. I could not put this book down until I finished it. Ride the High Lonesome was just as epic to me today as my first book I ever read by her was. I absolutely love this author’s writing. Rosanne Bittner is definitely oh so definitely Blessed from the Throne of God in her storytelling ability. Luke and Kate’s story now burrows in my heart along side so many other couples she has written. I cannot say or write enough good things or sing Rosanne Bittner’s praises high enough a book by her leaves my heart in a high and a low a high because it’s such a Wonderful Wonderful story but a low because I have to now wait on her next book. Oh I wish I could convey the pure joy her books bring me if I could bottle the feeling when I finish a Rosanne Bittner book and sell it she and I both would be multimillionaires.
October 13, 2019
Raw and poignant, Ride the High Lonesome seizes your attention from the start and keeps you spellbound until the end.
Fate intertwines Kate with Luke, at first simply for survival, and then as time goes on, as a peaceful solace to their hearts. In a time and place where surviving was a constant challenge, they provided motivation and strength to each other, quickly becoming the ideal match for each other. While both had a past that created mental wounds in desperate need of healing, that vulnerability left them open to the beauty they could find together. The trials encountered built the solid foundation and trust needed to heal and move forward, claiming the good out of life they both needed and desired.
I adored being there as Kate found her strength again, let go of her loneliness and fears, and settled into the love and security Luke provided. I think she's alot like most women out there - stronger and braver than she realized, and just needed the right encouragement and time to claim that for herself. I loved Luke's deep sense of honor, respect, protectiveness, and determination. He carried a heavy burden and had some dark demons messing with him, but he dug deep and didn't allow them to destroy the good he found in his Kate. Luke had his moments of larger-than-life virility, but it was perfectly woven in with moments of vulnerability and a touch of [make you wanna growl at him], keeping him real-to-life.
This story quickly became one of my top favorite Rosanne Bittner tales, with the emotional impact, epic story-telling, and the charm of an captivating love story. Bringing the wild vastness of Wyoming to life around me, I felt transported back in time and became lost in a different reality. I took my time reading this book just because I wanted to soak up every moment spent with Luke and Kate and didn't want it to end. And when it was over, after I took a few moments to soak it all in, I jumped back in to reread favorite parts... and I can't wait to revisit them again and again!
Fate intertwines Kate with Luke, at first simply for survival, and then as time goes on, as a peaceful solace to their hearts. In a time and place where surviving was a constant challenge, they provided motivation and strength to each other, quickly becoming the ideal match for each other. While both had a past that created mental wounds in desperate need of healing, that vulnerability left them open to the beauty they could find together. The trials encountered built the solid foundation and trust needed to heal and move forward, claiming the good out of life they both needed and desired.
I adored being there as Kate found her strength again, let go of her loneliness and fears, and settled into the love and security Luke provided. I think she's alot like most women out there - stronger and braver than she realized, and just needed the right encouragement and time to claim that for herself. I loved Luke's deep sense of honor, respect, protectiveness, and determination. He carried a heavy burden and had some dark demons messing with him, but he dug deep and didn't allow them to destroy the good he found in his Kate. Luke had his moments of larger-than-life virility, but it was perfectly woven in with moments of vulnerability and a touch of [make you wanna growl at him], keeping him real-to-life.
This story quickly became one of my top favorite Rosanne Bittner tales, with the emotional impact, epic story-telling, and the charm of an captivating love story. Bringing the wild vastness of Wyoming to life around me, I felt transported back in time and became lost in a different reality. I took my time reading this book just because I wanted to soak up every moment spent with Luke and Kate and didn't want it to end. And when it was over, after I took a few moments to soak it all in, I jumped back in to reread favorite parts... and I can't wait to revisit them again and again!
September 22, 2019
Can you imagine being a female that lost her husband and father in the civil war and you head out West to join the only family you have left only to have your wagon train get ambushed. Everyone but you is killed and the outlaws burn everything that they do not take. This is Kate Winters reality. She's alone with only the clothes on her back with only barren land as far as you can see. Then you happen upon a group of men hanging a man. The vigilantes leave behind the mans horse with his supplies so you've got to see this opportunity or you'll never survive. As Kate approaches the hanging man she discovers he's still alive.
Luke Bowden owes Kate his life and he vows to keep her safe and get her to Oregon to her family but first he's out for revenge.
Rosanne Bittner has written yet another epic novel about the wild untamed west. This book will grab your attention in the first few pages and keep you needing to know more. You'll be cheering for Luke and Kate to find a happily-ever-after to make up for their trouble pasts. You'll have to read this page turner to find out if their happily-ever-after's are together and if they ever make it to Oregon.
Luke Bowden owes Kate his life and he vows to keep her safe and get her to Oregon to her family but first he's out for revenge.
Rosanne Bittner has written yet another epic novel about the wild untamed west. This book will grab your attention in the first few pages and keep you needing to know more. You'll be cheering for Luke and Kate to find a happily-ever-after to make up for their trouble pasts. You'll have to read this page turner to find out if their happily-ever-after's are together and if they ever make it to Oregon.
November 11, 2019
Book Info
Paperback, 320 pages
Expected publication: November 26th 2019 by Sourcebooks Casablanca
ISBN 1492689262 (ISBN13: 9781492689263)
Series
Outlaw Trail #1
Other Editions (1)
Source:Netgalley EARC
Buy book from
Amazon B&N
A man bent on revenge
A woman determined to survive
A land that knows no mercy
Meet the Men of the Outlaw Trail
When Kate Winters is left stranded and defenseless in outlaw country, she knows there's little chance she'll make it out alive...until she stumbles across a ruthless gang hanging a cowboy for his cattle. She waits until the outlaws are gone, desperate enough to claim the dead man's horse to make her escape—only to realize he's not dead after all.
Those outlaws should have made damn sure Luke Bowden was good and gone. Now he vows he'll have his revenge no matter the cost. But they're miles away from the nearest town, and the woman who saved his hide won't survive the ride back. He owes her his life—he owes her everything—and it doesn't take long before he's faced with a terrible choice: stand by Kate...or claim his revenge?
These 4 statements from the books blurb/synopsis are what I am going to address first in order of their appearance and my thoughts on the story as a whole follows.
A man bent on revenge
Luke Bowden may have been left bound, hanged and helpless by the unlucky gang of men who also stole his cattle but his quest for revenge on them is fueled by the determination of a man hellbent on western justice.
A woman determined to survive
Kate Winters was a part of a group of travelers bound for a better life, a quest cut short in the most brutal way so finding Luke was an answer to her survival prayers. Of course she did not expect a total stranger would become important to more than that in a very short space of time either.
A land that knows no mercy
Starting off with their relentless journey which takes place miles away from the nearest town and culminates within the boundaries of a town which is in itself also has little to no mercy for its eclectic inhabitants. Many, if not all, of which are violent men and women with questionable pasts or even more questionable futures.
Meet the Men of the Outlaw Trail
Brutal land and even more brutally violent men, or women, rule along countryside and the towns in areas known as The Outlaw Trail.
Kate Winters and Luke Bowden were lucky more than not to survive their escapades in this era of lawlessness.
Finding themselves alone and depending on each other takes more than trust but also hard work as well.
Traveling is harsh and their surviving stretches each characters limits at times, also bringing to fore qualities in Luke and Kate that were unexpected by their foes or each other some of the time.
Nice beginning to the series, which I was expecting, with some unexpected twists here and there to keep anyone who had read the authors work before wanting more of the same and new readers forging eagerly ahead to find out what happened next.
Despite the ease with which one immerses into the book it is not so easy to put it down once started, nor did I expect it be.
Looking forward to other books in this series once they are available to read and enjoy.
Paperback, 320 pages
Expected publication: November 26th 2019 by Sourcebooks Casablanca
ISBN 1492689262 (ISBN13: 9781492689263)
Series
Outlaw Trail #1
Other Editions (1)
Source:Netgalley EARC
Buy book from
Amazon B&N
BOOK BLURB
A man bent on revenge
A woman determined to survive
A land that knows no mercy
Meet the Men of the Outlaw Trail
When Kate Winters is left stranded and defenseless in outlaw country, she knows there's little chance she'll make it out alive...until she stumbles across a ruthless gang hanging a cowboy for his cattle. She waits until the outlaws are gone, desperate enough to claim the dead man's horse to make her escape—only to realize he's not dead after all.
Those outlaws should have made damn sure Luke Bowden was good and gone. Now he vows he'll have his revenge no matter the cost. But they're miles away from the nearest town, and the woman who saved his hide won't survive the ride back. He owes her his life—he owes her everything—and it doesn't take long before he's faced with a terrible choice: stand by Kate...or claim his revenge?
My Thoughts
These 4 statements from the books blurb/synopsis are what I am going to address first in order of their appearance and my thoughts on the story as a whole follows.
A man bent on revenge
Luke Bowden may have been left bound, hanged and helpless by the unlucky gang of men who also stole his cattle but his quest for revenge on them is fueled by the determination of a man hellbent on western justice.
A woman determined to survive
Kate Winters was a part of a group of travelers bound for a better life, a quest cut short in the most brutal way so finding Luke was an answer to her survival prayers. Of course she did not expect a total stranger would become important to more than that in a very short space of time either.
A land that knows no mercy
Starting off with their relentless journey which takes place miles away from the nearest town and culminates within the boundaries of a town which is in itself also has little to no mercy for its eclectic inhabitants. Many, if not all, of which are violent men and women with questionable pasts or even more questionable futures.
Meet the Men of the Outlaw Trail
Brutal land and even more brutally violent men, or women, rule along countryside and the towns in areas known as The Outlaw Trail.
Kate Winters and Luke Bowden were lucky more than not to survive their escapades in this era of lawlessness.
Finding themselves alone and depending on each other takes more than trust but also hard work as well.
Traveling is harsh and their surviving stretches each characters limits at times, also bringing to fore qualities in Luke and Kate that were unexpected by their foes or each other some of the time.
Nice beginning to the series, which I was expecting, with some unexpected twists here and there to keep anyone who had read the authors work before wanting more of the same and new readers forging eagerly ahead to find out what happened next.
Despite the ease with which one immerses into the book it is not so easy to put it down once started, nor did I expect it be.
Looking forward to other books in this series once they are available to read and enjoy.
[EArc from Netgalley]
November 22, 2019
Ride the High Lonesome is the first book in Rosanne Bittner's Outlaw Trail series. I just adore starting a new series. I have read some of Ms. Bittner's work previously and really enjoyed it, so I was excited to have the opportunity to read this one.
Kate Winters is the sole survivor of an attack on a wagon train that was making its way to Oregon. Stranded in Wyoming, she comes across a gang hanging a man. She hides until they leave, then makes her way to the man. She needs supplies, and he won't need them any longer. However, when she approaches him, she realizes he's still alive; she cuts him down and cares for him. Luke Bowden wants his revenge and won't let anything get in his way of hunting down the men who did this to him. However, he vows to protect Kate and they head toward the outlaw town of Lander. Thus commences a story of traveling through the "high lonesome", outlaws, shootouts, hardship, friendship and love.
This story worked better as a western than a love story for me. I actually found the romance between Kate and Luke to be a bit annoying. Kate came across as needy, whiny and concerned about her reputation. Luke seemed to care more about his revenge, and he had an odd idea of how to decide if he loved Kate or not. I believe a bit more backstory for these two characters was needed. However, I still found this story highly enjoyable, mostly for the way Ms. Bittner writes about the Wyoming Territory. She really brings the area to life; you can almost feel the beating sun, then the stinging snow of a blizzard. She excels at showing the beauty of the land. I will definitely read the next installment of this series; I just hope for a better romance.
I received an ARC of this book courtesy of the publisher and NetGalley. I received no compensation for my review, and all thoughts and opinions expressed are entirely my own.
Kate Winters is the sole survivor of an attack on a wagon train that was making its way to Oregon. Stranded in Wyoming, she comes across a gang hanging a man. She hides until they leave, then makes her way to the man. She needs supplies, and he won't need them any longer. However, when she approaches him, she realizes he's still alive; she cuts him down and cares for him. Luke Bowden wants his revenge and won't let anything get in his way of hunting down the men who did this to him. However, he vows to protect Kate and they head toward the outlaw town of Lander. Thus commences a story of traveling through the "high lonesome", outlaws, shootouts, hardship, friendship and love.
This story worked better as a western than a love story for me. I actually found the romance between Kate and Luke to be a bit annoying. Kate came across as needy, whiny and concerned about her reputation. Luke seemed to care more about his revenge, and he had an odd idea of how to decide if he loved Kate or not. I believe a bit more backstory for these two characters was needed. However, I still found this story highly enjoyable, mostly for the way Ms. Bittner writes about the Wyoming Territory. She really brings the area to life; you can almost feel the beating sun, then the stinging snow of a blizzard. She excels at showing the beauty of the land. I will definitely read the next installment of this series; I just hope for a better romance.
I received an ARC of this book courtesy of the publisher and NetGalley. I received no compensation for my review, and all thoughts and opinions expressed are entirely my own.
October 31, 2020
Rating: 4.2 / 5
Compared to other works that I've read by Bittner, this was a more lighthearted and wholesome romance, sweet and yet still retaining that quality about Bittner's writing that I just like. Also, it's a newer work of hers, so maybe she's become sweeter and less harsh as she's grown older, since her earlier works, especially those from the late 80s-early 90s were extremely harsh and full of rape and angst and heartbreak, so it's good to read something of hers that diverges from that pattern.
Thankfully, there's no rape or angst or heartbreak in this, and instead it proves to be a really sweet romance about two people alone in a wild, desolate country, each with their own troubles and their own past, struggling onwards together.
The summary of the book does it justice as we open in right away to Kate witnessing Luke's hanging. She's more interested in his horse and supplies than saving him at first, but, as a nurse with wartime experience and her own losses behind her, Kate's kind heart prompts her nevertheless to cut Luke down, thereby saving his life. Afterwards, it's your typical lonely trek through the wilderness for these two, and slowly but surely they fell in love.
This is the first book for a while that I've read from start to finish without skimming any parts, and so I'm very glad to have gotten through it. In fact, I would have gone ahead and given it the full five stars, but for one thing: that annoying problem of Luke's with doubt and commitment. Ugh. To Bittner's credit, she did put effort into trying to justify it and give reasons for it but, as a reader, I'm entitled to my opinions and in my opinion it was annoying. It just...sort of felt like maybe Bittner thought that Luke and Kate weren't getting enough problems to deal with, and so she came up with the emotional sort. It's...kind of okay and their reunion at the end was very touching, but I still found myself being annoyed by it regardless, so down one star for that.
Otherwise though, it's a fulfilling story for readers who love this genre, and, as always, Bittner's great writing in romance shines through!
Compared to other works that I've read by Bittner, this was a more lighthearted and wholesome romance, sweet and yet still retaining that quality about Bittner's writing that I just like. Also, it's a newer work of hers, so maybe she's become sweeter and less harsh as she's grown older, since her earlier works, especially those from the late 80s-early 90s were extremely harsh and full of rape and angst and heartbreak, so it's good to read something of hers that diverges from that pattern.
Thankfully, there's no rape or angst or heartbreak in this, and instead it proves to be a really sweet romance about two people alone in a wild, desolate country, each with their own troubles and their own past, struggling onwards together.
The summary of the book does it justice as we open in right away to Kate witnessing Luke's hanging. She's more interested in his horse and supplies than saving him at first, but, as a nurse with wartime experience and her own losses behind her, Kate's kind heart prompts her nevertheless to cut Luke down, thereby saving his life. Afterwards, it's your typical lonely trek through the wilderness for these two, and slowly but surely they fell in love.
This is the first book for a while that I've read from start to finish without skimming any parts, and so I'm very glad to have gotten through it. In fact, I would have gone ahead and given it the full five stars, but for one thing: that annoying problem of Luke's with doubt and commitment. Ugh. To Bittner's credit, she did put effort into trying to justify it and give reasons for it but, as a reader, I'm entitled to my opinions and in my opinion it was annoying. It just...sort of felt like maybe Bittner thought that Luke and Kate weren't getting enough problems to deal with, and so she came up with the emotional sort. It's...kind of okay and their reunion at the end was very touching, but I still found myself being annoyed by it regardless, so down one star for that.
Otherwise though, it's a fulfilling story for readers who love this genre, and, as always, Bittner's great writing in romance shines through!
November 22, 2019
Ride the High Lonesome by Roseanne Bittner
Outlaw Trail #1
This story grabbed me at the beginning as Kate is watching the lynching of Luke. Would she be able to save him or just grab his things and maybe find salvation in civilization? There was so much potential for Kate and Luke as they both seemed to be survivors, smart, mature and with enough of a backstory (maybe) to make them interesting. I mean, they booth had lived through the Civil War and experienced loss and changes from those losses that made them grow and change. At some point I began to feel that Kate was too wrapped up in the idea that she might be raped or someone might see her body parts or something else that would be improper. Sure, there were some rather scary things that happened to her and some wicked outlaws that nearly got her but still...she seemed to spend a lot of time in her head thinking about what might happen, whether or not Luke might really like her, would Luke come back for her, could he love her, etc. And Luke, he seemed the strong stalwart wise one but they he was derailed into a revenge seeking killer that also could not trust a woman because of...well...because of a woman that did him wrong. So, I have mixed feelings. It was a good book but it could have been a great book if both characters had stayed truer to the strong character I saw in both of them and hadn’t begun to wallow in the angst and push pull of the relationship that developed instead.
Did I enjoy this book? Yes...for the most part
Would I read more in this series? I would try another book in the series.
Thank you to NetGalley and Sourcebooks for the ARC – This is my honest review.
3-4 Stars
Outlaw Trail #1
This story grabbed me at the beginning as Kate is watching the lynching of Luke. Would she be able to save him or just grab his things and maybe find salvation in civilization? There was so much potential for Kate and Luke as they both seemed to be survivors, smart, mature and with enough of a backstory (maybe) to make them interesting. I mean, they booth had lived through the Civil War and experienced loss and changes from those losses that made them grow and change. At some point I began to feel that Kate was too wrapped up in the idea that she might be raped or someone might see her body parts or something else that would be improper. Sure, there were some rather scary things that happened to her and some wicked outlaws that nearly got her but still...she seemed to spend a lot of time in her head thinking about what might happen, whether or not Luke might really like her, would Luke come back for her, could he love her, etc. And Luke, he seemed the strong stalwart wise one but they he was derailed into a revenge seeking killer that also could not trust a woman because of...well...because of a woman that did him wrong. So, I have mixed feelings. It was a good book but it could have been a great book if both characters had stayed truer to the strong character I saw in both of them and hadn’t begun to wallow in the angst and push pull of the relationship that developed instead.
Did I enjoy this book? Yes...for the most part
Would I read more in this series? I would try another book in the series.
Thank you to NetGalley and Sourcebooks for the ARC – This is my honest review.
3-4 Stars
November 27, 2019
Kate was a woman alone after the wagon train she was on was was attacked and she had hidden. Walking lost out in a vast country, not knowing if she would find help, food or anyone to help her. Can you just imagine?
Luke Bowden had been attacked by outlaws, who ended up stealing his cattle and trying to hang him. By a miracle, Kate came upon him and saved his life.
Two strangers, both with a hard past come together unexpectedly. Kate a widow whose husband had been killed in the war. Luke back from serving in the war to find his girl married to his brother..
Could these two help each other and find a little bit of happiness for themselves?
Such a well written story which painted a picture of life in the west and what it took to survive. It was not easy and reminds us that the men and women who were brave enough to venture west, were truly amazing.. Just a wonderful story!
Luke Bowden had been attacked by outlaws, who ended up stealing his cattle and trying to hang him. By a miracle, Kate came upon him and saved his life.
Two strangers, both with a hard past come together unexpectedly. Kate a widow whose husband had been killed in the war. Luke back from serving in the war to find his girl married to his brother..
Could these two help each other and find a little bit of happiness for themselves?
Such a well written story which painted a picture of life in the west and what it took to survive. It was not easy and reminds us that the men and women who were brave enough to venture west, were truly amazing.. Just a wonderful story!
January 5, 2022
This was a beautifully written western romance.
June 28, 2020
Love Rosanne's books
Thank you for another great book! If you haven't read her books,then you're missing out! Can't wait for your next book in this series
Thank you for another great book! If you haven't read her books,then you're missing out! Can't wait for your next book in this series
July 2, 2020
Another great western romance full of old west outlaws and settlers and the strong women who love them. Full of beautiful scenic descriptions and plot twists, I felt like I was riding alongside throughout the vast desolate Wyoming countryside. Look forward to reading more in the series. And, gotta say, I was thrilled to see a cameo appearance by the legend Jake Harkner!
March 29, 2021
I really wasn't expecting to like this book. I don't really read westerns or romances but I'm participating in a challenge at my library to read books from different genres so I choose this as my western read.
I ended up loving this book. I'm so glad I read it. I loved reading about Luke setting out to get his revenge, Kate defending herself against unwanted advances and Luke & Kate falling in love with each other. This book just made me so happy, I'll want to read it over again.
I ended up loving this book. I'm so glad I read it. I loved reading about Luke setting out to get his revenge, Kate defending herself against unwanted advances and Luke & Kate falling in love with each other. This book just made me so happy, I'll want to read it over again.
December 6, 2019
Reviewed at Keeper Bookshelf
I am never disappointed in a Rosanne Bittner story and RIDE THE HIGH LONESOME captured me early on and held me captive for Kate and Luke’s story. I enjoy Ms. Bittner’s worlds. They are realistically wild, ruff and tumble told with a sometimes old-fashioned slant, one that keeps me coming back for more of her stories time and time again. If you’ve followed her “Outlaw Hearts” series then you’ll want to keep an eye out for the first of the cameos she’s promised in this story. No, I’m not going to tell you who – that would spoil the fun but simply be on the lookout for an old book friend.
Aside from the trauma to both Luke and Kate, witnessing her wagon train’s occupants being slaughtered in front of her and being hung and left for dead while outlaws made off with his cattle, these two have some other issues to be dealt with before they find their happy ending. Watching them deal with the past while coping with the present made for an entertaining story. I’ll be frank and say that there were a couple of events that I questioned motives and reasons about – but overall, I found RIDE THE HIGH LONESOME to be an intense taste of the wild west and two loners who discover that love can happen when least expected.
If you love a good Western Romance with characters who leap off the page, enough danger to satisfy, and issues to be dealt with before love can fully bloom then you need to get in on the beginning of this new series – right now.
*I received an e-ARC of this novel from the publisher via NetGalley. That does not change what I think of this story. It is my choice to leave a review giving my personal opinion about this book.*
I am never disappointed in a Rosanne Bittner story and RIDE THE HIGH LONESOME captured me early on and held me captive for Kate and Luke’s story. I enjoy Ms. Bittner’s worlds. They are realistically wild, ruff and tumble told with a sometimes old-fashioned slant, one that keeps me coming back for more of her stories time and time again. If you’ve followed her “Outlaw Hearts” series then you’ll want to keep an eye out for the first of the cameos she’s promised in this story. No, I’m not going to tell you who – that would spoil the fun but simply be on the lookout for an old book friend.
Aside from the trauma to both Luke and Kate, witnessing her wagon train’s occupants being slaughtered in front of her and being hung and left for dead while outlaws made off with his cattle, these two have some other issues to be dealt with before they find their happy ending. Watching them deal with the past while coping with the present made for an entertaining story. I’ll be frank and say that there were a couple of events that I questioned motives and reasons about – but overall, I found RIDE THE HIGH LONESOME to be an intense taste of the wild west and two loners who discover that love can happen when least expected.
If you love a good Western Romance with characters who leap off the page, enough danger to satisfy, and issues to be dealt with before love can fully bloom then you need to get in on the beginning of this new series – right now.
*I received an e-ARC of this novel from the publisher via NetGalley. That does not change what I think of this story. It is my choice to leave a review giving my personal opinion about this book.*
October 27, 2019
First off let me say Rosanne Bittner is my second favorite author, so her works of art line my library shelves with honor . I was beyond excited to get my hands upon this new novel of hers .
This historical romance takes place not too far after the civil war. Luke Bowden meets Kate Winters by divine intervention and his good luck ! He becomes beholden to her immediately after she saves his life from a hanging .
There comes a point in the first half of the book when a guest appearance from a male hero from one of Bittners other books plays a small role . This character has such a strong masculine presence I felt from thence forth it broke down Luke Bowden's own masculinity for me.Though I love this other male character, I wish Miss Bittner had kept him in his own story so he wouldn't had unwittingly overshadowed Luke.
This is the only book of Bittners I just couldn't finish past half of the story. I felt both Kate's character and Luke's were lacking their back stories. I just wanted to know more beyond the death of her husband and father in the war and then with Luke all I knew was his intended married his brother while he was off in the civil war. I found myself in the middle of the book and also found Luke and Kate in the same place they were at almost the very start also , in not just the physical sense but emotionally too. We're they ever going to truly FALL FOR ONE ANOTHER ? Guess I'll never know.
This is my honest review .Book was a gift from NetGalley and SOURCEBOOKS Casablanca
This historical romance takes place not too far after the civil war. Luke Bowden meets Kate Winters by divine intervention and his good luck ! He becomes beholden to her immediately after she saves his life from a hanging .
There comes a point in the first half of the book when a guest appearance from a male hero from one of Bittners other books plays a small role . This character has such a strong masculine presence I felt from thence forth it broke down Luke Bowden's own masculinity for me.Though I love this other male character, I wish Miss Bittner had kept him in his own story so he wouldn't had unwittingly overshadowed Luke.
This is the only book of Bittners I just couldn't finish past half of the story. I felt both Kate's character and Luke's were lacking their back stories. I just wanted to know more beyond the death of her husband and father in the war and then with Luke all I knew was his intended married his brother while he was off in the civil war. I found myself in the middle of the book and also found Luke and Kate in the same place they were at almost the very start also , in not just the physical sense but emotionally too. We're they ever going to truly FALL FOR ONE ANOTHER ? Guess I'll never know.
This is my honest review .Book was a gift from NetGalley and SOURCEBOOKS Casablanca
Read
October 16, 2023DNF @ 34%.
Finding the writing annoying. Heroine keeps nagging the hero about not looking at her/taking advantage of her. Doesn't feel that realistic.
If she's extremely modest/protective of her virtue, I'm surprised she keeps mentioning it outright. Feels like she's tempting fate to keep on at him. (Writing this makes me feel like an asshole.)
I would've liked to have been deeper into their minds/POVs by this point in a novel. What was it like inside her first marriage?
Having the hero stride around killing people who wronged him is a little, er, unusual. But OK. I'll try to go with it.
Having the barkeep blabbing to newcomers about how so-and-so sharp shooter is so devoted to his wife that he never sleeps with the working girls felt like a clumsy way to introduce a character for a sequel. It's OK to have a narrator tell us some things, rather than awkwardly get a character to do it.
"Ole Red will be fine, especially since we managed to make up a travois from some of those tree limbs to carry the supplies separate."
"Why, thank you for describing out loud that thing we both know."
Just feeling grumpy from reading this.
Finding the writing annoying. Heroine keeps nagging the hero about not looking at her/taking advantage of her. Doesn't feel that realistic.
If she's extremely modest/protective of her virtue, I'm surprised she keeps mentioning it outright. Feels like she's tempting fate to keep on at him. (Writing this makes me feel like an asshole.)
I would've liked to have been deeper into their minds/POVs by this point in a novel. What was it like inside her first marriage?
Having the hero stride around killing people who wronged him is a little, er, unusual. But OK. I'll try to go with it.
Having the barkeep blabbing to newcomers about how so-and-so sharp shooter is so devoted to his wife that he never sleeps with the working girls felt like a clumsy way to introduce a character for a sequel. It's OK to have a narrator tell us some things, rather than awkwardly get a character to do it.
"Ole Red will be fine, especially since we managed to make up a travois from some of those tree limbs to carry the supplies separate."
"Why, thank you for describing out loud that thing we both know."
Just feeling grumpy from reading this.
December 3, 2019
Last week was Thanksgiving here in the United States, a time where we reflect on the things we’re thankful for. Every time I read a western, I’m thankful I was born in the late 20th century. I’m also thankful for good books.
Kate Winters lost her husband in the Civil War. With nothing tying her to Indiana, she joined a small wagon train heading to Oregon, where her brother and his family live. But somewhere in the middle of Utah the group was attacked by outlaws and Kate barely escaped with her life. After several days of wandering she came across another group of outlaws in the process of hanging a man. Hiding behind some bushes she waited until they left, only to discover the poor man hanging wasn’t dead. After much effort she’s able to cut him down and nurse him until his strength returns.
Luke Bowden can hardly believe he’s still alive, and he’s grateful to the beautiful woman who saved his life. But he has to get to the closest town - which is over 20 miles away - so he can retrieve his cattle and get revenge on the men who tried to kill him.
Ride the Lonesome High is a good old fashioned western, complete with outlaws, cattle rustlers, and saloon shootouts. The story was action packed from beginning to end, and for the most part I really enjoyed it. What I didn’t enjoy was the repeated internal thoughts by both the main characters, which is what dropped the rating down a star. (On the upside, at least it wasn’t about how hawt the hero is...so there’s that.)
Historical romance isn’t a genre I actively try to read, but this book kept me engaged from the first page, all the way to the last. So I’ll definitely be looking to read more from this series!
* thank you to NetGalley and SOURCEBOOKS Casablanca for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review
Kate Winters lost her husband in the Civil War. With nothing tying her to Indiana, she joined a small wagon train heading to Oregon, where her brother and his family live. But somewhere in the middle of Utah the group was attacked by outlaws and Kate barely escaped with her life. After several days of wandering she came across another group of outlaws in the process of hanging a man. Hiding behind some bushes she waited until they left, only to discover the poor man hanging wasn’t dead. After much effort she’s able to cut him down and nurse him until his strength returns.
Luke Bowden can hardly believe he’s still alive, and he’s grateful to the beautiful woman who saved his life. But he has to get to the closest town - which is over 20 miles away - so he can retrieve his cattle and get revenge on the men who tried to kill him.
Ride the Lonesome High is a good old fashioned western, complete with outlaws, cattle rustlers, and saloon shootouts. The story was action packed from beginning to end, and for the most part I really enjoyed it. What I didn’t enjoy was the repeated internal thoughts by both the main characters, which is what dropped the rating down a star. (On the upside, at least it wasn’t about how hawt the hero is...so there’s that.)
Historical romance isn’t a genre I actively try to read, but this book kept me engaged from the first page, all the way to the last. So I’ll definitely be looking to read more from this series!
* thank you to NetGalley and SOURCEBOOKS Casablanca for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review
February 19, 2020
Ride the High Lonesome is a book worth reading. This is my first time reading this author's work and I thoroughly enjoyed every page. Rosanne Bittner's book is well researched and exciting. She had me hooked from the first few pages. Kate and Luke are characters I cheered for throughout the book. I look forward to reading more by this author.
In the beginning of the book, Kate Winters is left stranded in outlaw country because her wagon train was attacked by outlaws. She watches as men string up a man and leave him to die. Seeing the hanged man's horse as her only salvation in this forbidden country, she hurries to capture it only to find that the hanged man is not dead yet. Pitying him, she cuts him down and the saga of Luke and Kate begins as they traverse the terrane in order to find safe quarters for her on her way further west. Their journey is filled with plenty of twists and turns. Will they make it to safety? Will Luke seek his revenge? Will Kate make it further out west? Read the book to find out.
In the beginning of the book, Kate Winters is left stranded in outlaw country because her wagon train was attacked by outlaws. She watches as men string up a man and leave him to die. Seeing the hanged man's horse as her only salvation in this forbidden country, she hurries to capture it only to find that the hanged man is not dead yet. Pitying him, she cuts him down and the saga of Luke and Kate begins as they traverse the terrane in order to find safe quarters for her on her way further west. Their journey is filled with plenty of twists and turns. Will they make it to safety? Will Luke seek his revenge? Will Kate make it further out west? Read the book to find out.
November 30, 2019
Kate has been through hell. She barely survived an attack on her wagon train and has been walking alone in outlaw country when she spies a man about to be hung. She can do nothing to save the man, but hopes that his horse can save her. But upon reaching the man, she sees that he is still alive and does what she can to save him.
Luke has survived a hanging and now he seeks his revenge on the men that tried to kill him. But he can't leave Kate behind since she saved him. He agrees to help her get to her brother in law's home after he gets what was stolen from him. But he'll travel faster without Kate.
Can Luke get his revenge and still keep his promise to the woman that saved his life?
I really enjoyed Luke and Kate's story. Kate was a strong woman and just want Jake needed in his life. But he didn't trust others after two people close to him betrayed him. It was nice watching him open up his heart to let love in.
We get to see a favorite of mine from another of Bittner's series and that was fun!! This was a great start to a new series and I can't wait to see what Bittner has in store for us!
Luke has survived a hanging and now he seeks his revenge on the men that tried to kill him. But he can't leave Kate behind since she saved him. He agrees to help her get to her brother in law's home after he gets what was stolen from him. But he'll travel faster without Kate.
Can Luke get his revenge and still keep his promise to the woman that saved his life?
I really enjoyed Luke and Kate's story. Kate was a strong woman and just want Jake needed in his life. But he didn't trust others after two people close to him betrayed him. It was nice watching him open up his heart to let love in.
We get to see a favorite of mine from another of Bittner's series and that was fun!! This was a great start to a new series and I can't wait to see what Bittner has in store for us!
June 28, 2020
Being a huge fan of Rosanne Bittner’s works, when I heard she was starting a series that takes place on the Outlaw Trail, I bought this book as soon as it came out. It took me a while to dig my way to Ride the High Lonesome in my TBR pile, but I finally had a chance to read this wonderful novel.
As always, Rosanne’s characters are sympathetic people trying their best to survive in a wild country.
I can’t think of any female lead Rosanne has written that I didn’t admire and like. Kate Winters is no exception. She shows her hidden inner-strength at the beginning of the novel when she survives an attack on her wagon train and meanders through the outlaw trail for a few days on her own before she comes across four men attempting to hang Luke Bowden. She shows more strength and much compassion when she cuts Luke from the noose where the men have left him to die.
Read more here: https://maggieblackbird.com/2020/06/2...
As always, Rosanne’s characters are sympathetic people trying their best to survive in a wild country.
I can’t think of any female lead Rosanne has written that I didn’t admire and like. Kate Winters is no exception. She shows her hidden inner-strength at the beginning of the novel when she survives an attack on her wagon train and meanders through the outlaw trail for a few days on her own before she comes across four men attempting to hang Luke Bowden. She shows more strength and much compassion when she cuts Luke from the noose where the men have left him to die.
Read more here: https://maggieblackbird.com/2020/06/2...
April 10, 2024
This wasn't a bad read, but not up to Bittner's standards. I love Bittner's "classic" '80s and '90s Western Romances. They had fast, strong pacing, good characters, and vivid, unforgettable writing. These dark, gritty epic romances of the '80s and '90s don't seem super popular today, which is why I mainly stick with older romance books. I took a chance on this one, but found it disjointed. The main action was over in the first 80 pages and then the plot meandered. There was a ton of repetition in the writing, a lot of repetitive dialogue, and annoying character tics. Furthermore, it should have alternated better between Kate and Luke's points of view. It was annoying to get a little bit of Luke's perspective and then switch to Kate's. The book started off very strong and vivid (it did have a great hook), but the characters became annoying and Luke's "test" at the end was totally not worthy of a big "hero".
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 28, 2024
Depressing & repetitive
I try to give a lot of grace to stories, especially if I decide to finish them. This one unfortunately fell very short of my reading preferences. The long paragraphs that needlessly repeated information several times made the story drag, despite all unrealistic efforts to add excite by nearly killing the characters at every turn. There was only a surface level of understanding of battle trauma, and most of the reactions to killing & nearly dying were unlikely at best. The premise for the story was a good one, and there were little to no grammatical errors that distracted the reader (although I did a lot skimming of pages that were repeating the same plot points).
I wouldn't recommend this to anyone who has seen real war, or who are history buffs.
I try to give a lot of grace to stories, especially if I decide to finish them. This one unfortunately fell very short of my reading preferences. The long paragraphs that needlessly repeated information several times made the story drag, despite all unrealistic efforts to add excite by nearly killing the characters at every turn. There was only a surface level of understanding of battle trauma, and most of the reactions to killing & nearly dying were unlikely at best. The premise for the story was a good one, and there were little to no grammatical errors that distracted the reader (although I did a lot skimming of pages that were repeating the same plot points).
I wouldn't recommend this to anyone who has seen real war, or who are history buffs.
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