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Two Thousand Grueling Miles #2
Rugged Trails
From the wilds of western Oregon on the banks of the Snake River, young Jake Zane is offered a job he can’t refuse.
After locusts clean out his fields, Jake Zane must turn to hunting and trapping for survival. He can earn a decent wage—and potentially earn a fat bonus—if he can live to collect it…
Zane is compelled to sign on as a wagon and mule train guard into unchartered territory, from Oregon to gold rush San Francisco. All that’s between him and a bonus that will carry Jake and his family through another year are hundreds of savages, weather, a Sierra crossing, and wild animals on rugged trails. It’s get there with the cargo, or all is lost.
The Two Thousand Grueling Miles series is a true family adventure tale full of can’t put it down action.
After locusts clean out his fields, Jake Zane must turn to hunting and trapping for survival. He can earn a decent wage—and potentially earn a fat bonus—if he can live to collect it…
Zane is compelled to sign on as a wagon and mule train guard into unchartered territory, from Oregon to gold rush San Francisco. All that’s between him and a bonus that will carry Jake and his family through another year are hundreds of savages, weather, a Sierra crossing, and wild animals on rugged trails. It’s get there with the cargo, or all is lost.
The Two Thousand Grueling Miles series is a true family adventure tale full of can’t put it down action.
202 pages, Paperback
Published April 13, 2022
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews
December 29, 2019
Larry Martin – Two Thousand Grueling Miles Bk 2 – Rugged Trails – Reviewed 12/28/19
Jake knows that he has to make it or ELSE!!!
Jake Zane has no choice due to the devastation of his fields from the locusts, he has to make money for the family. He decides to sign on as a Wagon and Mule train guard that is going to San Francisco. The pay is good and it will take care of the family for the next year. Now the only thing he has to do is survive the trip. Lots of wild savages, wild animals including the road robbers and not even mentioning the ruff terrain over the Sierras to their destination. The way is filled with lots of men heading for the gold rush! Jake has not even reached his twentieth year, and he has traveled from the East to the West and taken care of all of his family, he feels confident that he can make the trip and get the bonus that is promised.
What did I like? I loved book one and when it was finished I had hoped that the author would go on with book two. It takes young Jake and puts him in another type of wagon for a very rough trip from Oregon to San Francisco, CA. The way is filled with all kinds of troubles and even the trail boss leaves a lot to be desired. Jake won’t quit, his family is depending on him! I love the grit of this boy. It is too bad that there are not more of him today!
What will you like? Incredible action, intense situations that a man twice his age would have a hard time facing. Indian attacks, outlaws, horrible weather, and that was just the first few weeks. Throw in some of the roughest trails that man has never taken a wagon and then add the winter weather to that and you have one heck of a storyline. Larry Martin has the Midas touch when it comes to writing westerns that will take you, and put you right in the middle of the action. His characters are always unique and extraordinary. His storylines will take hold of you and not let go. I cried and laughed and held my breath. It was a hard trip and I felt every bump and raindrop! If you have read any of Larry’s books, you know that his research is impeccable, and the details and descriptions show it on every page. Does everyone make it or will Jake lose his bonus??? One fantastic read that you will not be able to lay down. I read it in one sitting and was thrilled with the ending. I know you will too!
• Release Date: 12/29/19
• File Size: 7982 KB
• Genre: Western Fiction Classic
Jake knows that he has to make it or ELSE!!!
Jake Zane has no choice due to the devastation of his fields from the locusts, he has to make money for the family. He decides to sign on as a Wagon and Mule train guard that is going to San Francisco. The pay is good and it will take care of the family for the next year. Now the only thing he has to do is survive the trip. Lots of wild savages, wild animals including the road robbers and not even mentioning the ruff terrain over the Sierras to their destination. The way is filled with lots of men heading for the gold rush! Jake has not even reached his twentieth year, and he has traveled from the East to the West and taken care of all of his family, he feels confident that he can make the trip and get the bonus that is promised.
What did I like? I loved book one and when it was finished I had hoped that the author would go on with book two. It takes young Jake and puts him in another type of wagon for a very rough trip from Oregon to San Francisco, CA. The way is filled with all kinds of troubles and even the trail boss leaves a lot to be desired. Jake won’t quit, his family is depending on him! I love the grit of this boy. It is too bad that there are not more of him today!
What will you like? Incredible action, intense situations that a man twice his age would have a hard time facing. Indian attacks, outlaws, horrible weather, and that was just the first few weeks. Throw in some of the roughest trails that man has never taken a wagon and then add the winter weather to that and you have one heck of a storyline. Larry Martin has the Midas touch when it comes to writing westerns that will take you, and put you right in the middle of the action. His characters are always unique and extraordinary. His storylines will take hold of you and not let go. I cried and laughed and held my breath. It was a hard trip and I felt every bump and raindrop! If you have read any of Larry’s books, you know that his research is impeccable, and the details and descriptions show it on every page. Does everyone make it or will Jake lose his bonus??? One fantastic read that you will not be able to lay down. I read it in one sitting and was thrilled with the ending. I know you will too!
• Release Date: 12/29/19
• File Size: 7982 KB
• Genre: Western Fiction Classic
July 12, 2021
The second book in the series of 'Two Thousand Gruelling #2'. Jake Zane was only 15 when his father died, when he became the head of the family. After settled on his homestead he was offered a job he couldn't refuse. Taking the job, he went from Oregon to San Francisco, California during the Gold Rush. And the story continues with much more.
I enjoyed reading this western story it was full of adventures of the Old West and many tales during the 1800 era. This is a well written story, the character came alive with their own personalitIes. A good interesting plot as the author brought it all together. The author is a great storyteller, it was easy to read and fast pace. I recommend this book and other books written by this author.
I enjoyed reading this western story it was full of adventures of the Old West and many tales during the 1800 era. This is a well written story, the character came alive with their own personalitIes. A good interesting plot as the author brought it all together. The author is a great storyteller, it was easy to read and fast pace. I recommend this book and other books written by this author.
January 20, 2020
An LJM. Northwest US Western Action Adventure (RT) (TTGMB - 2)
LJM. has penned a Northwestern US western action adventure titled "Rugged Trails" which begins in eastern Oregon with a load of gold for a man in San Francisco. The pack train starts with six men and six mules loaded with gold. The next thousand miles to San Francisco has many obstacles to overcome. This is an excellent read for the genre.....DEHS
LJM. has penned a Northwestern US western action adventure titled "Rugged Trails" which begins in eastern Oregon with a load of gold for a man in San Francisco. The pack train starts with six men and six mules loaded with gold. The next thousand miles to San Francisco has many obstacles to overcome. This is an excellent read for the genre.....DEHS
June 28, 2020
Great Western
From Oregon to San Francisco, this is a fast paced western. This book continues the two thousand grueling miles series. What started out as a group bringing goods, gold, to San Francisco, along the trail, ends up with only one of the original men surviving the trip. This continues the coming of age story where book one leaves off. A very fast placed western, with lots of gun, bow and arrow, battles to get to San Francisco.
From Oregon to San Francisco, this is a fast paced western. This book continues the two thousand grueling miles series. What started out as a group bringing goods, gold, to San Francisco, along the trail, ends up with only one of the original men surviving the trip. This continues the coming of age story where book one leaves off. A very fast placed western, with lots of gun, bow and arrow, battles to get to San Francisco.
May 1, 2022
Rugged Trails
Honesty is a virtue that is never misplaced. Taking ownership for doing wrong and settling up with humility is always the rule. This was a great read, both volume 1 & 2 and I hope there is a volume 3. LJ Martin is a good author and reminds me a lot of Brand, Grey and L’Amour. His prose and characters are real and a bit ruff but straightforward.
Honesty is a virtue that is never misplaced. Taking ownership for doing wrong and settling up with humility is always the rule. This was a great read, both volume 1 & 2 and I hope there is a volume 3. LJ Martin is a good author and reminds me a lot of Brand, Grey and L’Amour. His prose and characters are real and a bit ruff but straightforward.
June 10, 2022
New fan
Well Mr. Martin, you are as good of a cowpoke writer as I’ve come across in the past 70 years. Certainly my mistake!
Darn fine story teller whose characters shore make you happy that a second book follows for some more real quality and captivating time. Each providing its on satisfaction…..I’m a fan
Well Mr. Martin, you are as good of a cowpoke writer as I’ve come across in the past 70 years. Certainly my mistake!
Darn fine story teller whose characters shore make you happy that a second book follows for some more real quality and captivating time. Each providing its on satisfaction…..I’m a fan
October 10, 2022
This story was easy reading and had a good plot.......
I enjoyed this story very much. The hardships faced by the travelers as depicted in this book were not exaggerated. They were very real! The hero was a very moral young man who was not afraid to face the hardships and perils of the trail. I enjoy Mr. Martins writing and recommend this book to anyone who enjoys weaterns.
I enjoyed this story very much. The hardships faced by the travelers as depicted in this book were not exaggerated. They were very real! The hero was a very moral young man who was not afraid to face the hardships and perils of the trail. I enjoy Mr. Martins writing and recommend this book to anyone who enjoys weaterns.
February 4, 2020
An amazing read
I chose this book because I was interested in finding another decent author of western tales. I got way more than I expected.
From first page to last I was led by a master?
I chose this book because I was interested in finding another decent author of western tales. I got way more than I expected.
From first page to last I was led by a master?
February 6, 2020
Really top notch read
Memorable characters, strong plot, great tension as events unfold--what's not to like? Well worth the time invested . And a great book is definitely an investment.
Memorable characters, strong plot, great tension as events unfold--what's not to like? Well worth the time invested . And a great book is definitely an investment.
February 15, 2020
Great Plot and Intrigue
I enjoyed the description of each character and the depiction of the towns and country landscapes. The plot was very telling but surprisingly clever and intriguing.
I enjoyed the description of each character and the depiction of the towns and country landscapes. The plot was very telling but surprisingly clever and intriguing.
March 11, 2020
Rugged Trails
R. l. Martin writes an interesting and historically accurate story. It was hard to put down because he just keeps you interested until the end and wanting more. Great read
R. l. Martin writes an interesting and historically accurate story. It was hard to put down because he just keeps you interested until the end and wanting more. Great read
March 14, 2020
Great Sequel
This second book features a young man still in his teens but mature beyond his years. From part of a group of men delivering valuable cargo to San Francisco to the last man standing, he faces obstacle after obstacle. Will he make it? Packed with non-stop action!
This second book features a young man still in his teens but mature beyond his years. From part of a group of men delivering valuable cargo to San Francisco to the last man standing, he faces obstacle after obstacle. Will he make it? Packed with non-stop action!
April 17, 2020
Just a very good book and very enjoyable to read
I do enjoy authors that take the time to research the country before writing. This author did just that. Very well written,thank you.
I do enjoy authors that take the time to research the country before writing. This author did just that. Very well written,thank you.
June 10, 2020
Author's Notes
This novel was the second book I purchased by the author. I enjoyed the first novel, but I was really impressed by the author's notes at the end of the book. It is great to get the historical background of different things in the novel.
This novel was the second book I purchased by the author. I enjoyed the first novel, but I was really impressed by the author's notes at the end of the book. It is great to get the historical background of different things in the novel.
December 16, 2020
Rugged Trails (2)
This was a good read that keeps your interest and attention from start to finish. The story has all the good things that make it work for you.A good look at the old west.
This was a good read that keeps your interest and attention from start to finish. The story has all the good things that make it work for you.A good look at the old west.
April 30, 2022
Excellent story of loss and one man's tenacity to survive
Great series about getting a precious cargo to Sacramento and all that is lost along the way. I hope the author continues it. I had to read it twice. Highly recommended for all readers.
Great series about getting a precious cargo to Sacramento and all that is lost along the way. I hope the author continues it. I had to read it twice. Highly recommended for all readers.
May 9, 2022
No sleep
When I first starting these 2 novels I figured 2\3 days to read each boom, not was I wrong took me 2 days to read them both, they are just so darn hard to put down. Hope there is a 3rd book in this series. Wanna make sure he gets bac to his ma and finds his girlfriend.
When I first starting these 2 novels I figured 2\3 days to read each boom, not was I wrong took me 2 days to read them both, they are just so darn hard to put down. Hope there is a 3rd book in this series. Wanna make sure he gets bac to his ma and finds his girlfriend.
March 12, 2020
Trouble
Finished reading the adventures of Zane many did he have with his trouble delivering the cargo that he became responsible for
Finished reading the adventures of Zane many did he have with his trouble delivering the cargo that he became responsible for
March 19, 2020
Another Great Read
I really enjoy action ,adventure and accurate historical and geographical reading.
L.J.Martin takes Rugged Trails way over the top !
Cole H. Thomas
I really enjoy action ,adventure and accurate historical and geographical reading.
L.J.Martin takes Rugged Trails way over the top !
Cole H. Thomas
June 29, 2020
Excellent
Again, good writing, a fast moving story. A very good example of "train up a boy correctly and when he is older he will not depart from it".
Again, good writing, a fast moving story. A very good example of "train up a boy correctly and when he is older he will not depart from it".
October 31, 2020
Very
Star rating this this is the book that I have read by l j smarten it is the first and I enjoyed very much look forward to the next one
Star rating this this is the book that I have read by l j smarten it is the first and I enjoyed very much look forward to the next one
February 26, 2021
Good
A good story about an honest individual trying to fulfill an agreement he made with a person for another person.
A good story about an honest individual trying to fulfill an agreement he made with a person for another person.
March 13, 2021
3.5 stars
March 31, 2021
Take a stand
Unique story in that the main hero is only 17 years old. However he becomes very quickly a man and proved his worth
Unique story in that the main hero is only 17 years old. However he becomes very quickly a man and proved his worth
April 21, 2022
Honesty rewarded
A young man chooses duty and honesty over greed and the easy way. Loyal to his friends and fair to enemies. An inspiring read.
A young man chooses duty and honesty over greed and the easy way. Loyal to his friends and fair to enemies. An inspiring read.
August 7, 2022
Good
I was surprised as it is well written and well told. Yes action and some doubt but alas no romance.
I was surprised as it is well written and well told. Yes action and some doubt but alas no romance.
August 5, 2023
Great book!!!
I enjoyed this book greatly. I will read ad many books by this author as I can find. This was a great book...
I enjoyed this book greatly. I will read ad many books by this author as I can find. This was a great book...
January 7, 2026
Outstanding
Extremely well written. Lots of exciting moments and great adventures. Enjoyed every page! Great knowledge of the west.
Rock on!
Extremely well written. Lots of exciting moments and great adventures. Enjoyed every page! Great knowledge of the west.
Rock on!
December 29, 2019
It was a great story and well written . I thoroughly enjoyed it .
Kirk
Kirk
May 15, 2022
Good read
Jake joins group heading for San Francisco. The cargo is many pounds of gold. Indians and outlaws present many obstacles and kill most of the group. Hope there is another book coming because some issues are not resolved!
Jake joins group heading for San Francisco. The cargo is many pounds of gold. Indians and outlaws present many obstacles and kill most of the group. Hope there is another book coming because some issues are not resolved!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews