I was hooked from the first line and couldn’t put this book down. A wonderful story, great characters, as Grace and her younger brother embark on an epic journey to join their older brother in Oregon in the nineteenth century. There’s danger, there’s romance, a real roller coaster of emotions, but one that is written beautifully and well researched. I can’t wait for the author’s next book. Thank you Net Galley and Storm for the review copy.

Captivating, sweeping, exciting, absorbing, exceptional and authentic historical fiction are just a few words I would use to express Imogen Martin’s newest novel To The Wild Horizon! I did not know what to expect when I started because I had not read her highly acclaimed first book (mostly due to my oversized reading pile) but once I dove into this storyline (which was at the first paragraph!), I knew I was going to love this novel. And I was right.

First, the characters came alive on the page perfectly drawn. I felt I knew them completely by the end of the story. They had layers in their personalities and carried an artist’s touch of skilled shading. I could visualise their physical attributes, their quirks and mannerisms. They were more than mere sketches on a developing canvas. Even the minor characters were properly formed and fit in every appropriate space. And the major ones were never just black and white but paraded across the settings in living colour, often against the sepia tones of a wilderness landscape. Throughout all their hardships, I felt compassion—understood their disappointments and cheered on their aspirations. A real community spirit developed on the journey—especially between the women. Grace, of course, was their true leader in every way. A forerunner of things to come. She constantly helped those who needed assistance.

As for the setting itself, I could feel the brown dust mixed with crushed golden leaves against my skin, the dry particles of earth swirling in the wind from clouds of hoofprints stinging my eyes. I was on the wagon with Grace, beside her on the seat, watching her movements, hearing her secrets and admiring her fierce unbeatable determination. She was an incredible example to the women (and men) of courage, skill, ability and unfathomable strength. Yes, she was on the run from an incident that haunted her. An impending violation she did not provoke. But in her defence, who would not have done what she did—if able? To protect her young brother and herself, she aimed a gun and fired. Did she kill the man? She never waited to find out but shot (pardon the pun) through, leaving the frontier town of Independence, Missouri in a hurry after packing her belongings. Then with her little brother in tow, she made her way to the next group of travellers on their way to Oregon across the Great Plains. She was not just running away but heading toward a new life in the west where their other brother already lived. She needed to see him, deliver a message and parcel from their late father—in hopes of mending a father-son relationship.

The army was part of this convoy and the captain was a ‘different sort of leader—rigid, authoritarian—even dictatorial…’ In order to join the group, she had to make him believe she was married, had a child and her husband was already in Oregon. Her brother was a small ten, and he played his part well. But those fabrications would catch up to her when least expected. Yet, even then, she handled the situation well. The captain would show his true nature and their connection would spark and their relationship change. I really enjoyed his personal journey, too, and the effects Grace had on him.

I felt the effects of the time period, the well described locations, and the restraints and expectations on women. The challenges were realistic and they affected everyone. Who wouldn’t change after such horrendous circumstances—especially the pioneers? They put new meaning in the word ‘resilience’ and ‘fortitude’. Stretched and pushed beyond ordinary limits, they had to survive the odds. The Wild West would have been a challenge for anyone crossing the plains, mountains and rivers but the women who found themselves venturing in such untamed territory, would have been battling not only the terrain, the elements, wild animals and sickness but also less-than-friendly natives who did not want anyone trespassing on their land. I won’t get into the particulars of this kind of warfare but Imogen certainly provides a vivid caption of the encounter and destruction that happened when the travelling pioneers encountered these people. Plenty of fear ravaged even the bravest for many were struck down or injured on both sides.

This is a story about courage, resilience, love, hope, fresh starts, unlikely unions, awakenings, sacrifice and so much more. A beautifully delivered novel that kept me on the edge of my seat and my hand over my heart. I truly felt transported to the 1840s and was caught up in the dramas, felt my pulse race during the dangerous moments, grieved over the horrid violations but at the end when justice is served, lovers are united and everything is rebalanced, I was so glad to have made the journey with these characters across the Great Plains, for like them I felt changed by the experience and filled with new contemplations. This is an exceptional read that I highly recommend. Now I must go back and read Imogen’s first novel and wait anxiously for her next! 5 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Thanks to Storm Publishing and Netgalley for my review copy.

After being bowled over by the author's debut novel, 'Under a Gilded Sky', I couldn't wait to read 'To the Wild Horizon'. The atmospheric cover and the intriguing title are both so apt for this wonderful novel. Full of historical detail with evidence of extensive research, the story immediately transported me to 1840s America from the very beginning. The pace of the story was such that I couldn't put it down. The characters came alive on the page; I was there with Grace and her younger brother, Tom, as they faced the perilous and gruelling journey following The Oregon Trail to join their brother. I particularly liked the strength of character and resilience shown by Grace who had to prove herself again and again that, as a woman, she could undertake the journey. The character of Captain Randolf is also multi-layered and it was good to observe his emotional personal journey; I was willing the two to fall in love. This fabulous novel has it all - action, drama, a building of community, adventure and romance. Novel three can't come fast enough for me!
Thank you to Net Galley and Storm Publishing for an ARC copy of the book.

Grace thinks she may have accidentally killed somebody. Her only choice is to get out of town. She lies her way onto a wagon train headed west.
I liked Grace, she’s strong, determined and courageous.
It’s a nice love story too.
I couldn’t help but think about the TV show 1883 while reading this book.

Fleeing possible arrest in 1840s Missouri, Grace and her young brother Tom start the brutal journey by wagon on the Oregon Trail. Relying on her wits and strength, the trail will challenge her in ways she can only imagine.

I love stories about pioneers. I love the main character and her journey and I am so proud of this author! This is not my usual read but it held my attention. I would love to listen to this as an audiobook. This would be a fun book club read.

Another unputdownable novel by Imogen Martin - she is now one of my favourite authors! I was hooked from the first page until the last - I didn't want it to end! I love reading about the Oregon Trail and receiving a history lesson along the way and this story did not disappoint.

It is a story of strength, survival, friendship, and love, and we get a glimpse of the struggles, brutality, and inequality of the time. There is a great lineup of characters and I enjoyed being part of their journey. Grace is a determined young woman who will do whatever it takes to get herself and her brother safely to Oregon, drawing on her strength to help those around her, even though it could be to her detriment. I also enjoyed getting to know Captain James Randolph and understanding him better. I'm still thinking about some of the events several days after finishing the book and find myself in awe of what the pioneers accomplished as well as feeling saddened by the loss, devastation and suffering endured by all.

I highly recommend adding this book to your reading list - it's an easy, fast paced read with some points to ponder.

*There are some 'adult' scenes, including rape & attempted rape, but nothing drawn out or explicit and it would be easy to skip those parts if they aren't for you.

Thank you to NetGalley, the author, and the publisher for a digital ARC of this book in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.

Oh wow! I loved this book so much. I raced through it and then had to try and eke out the ending because I couldn’t bear the thought of finishing it.
It tells the story of Grace Sinclair and her younger brother who trick their way onto Captain Randolph’s wagon train to cross America on The Oregon Trail and it not only pulled me in from the very first page, it kept me invested every step of the way.
This fast-paced novel is chock full of beautiful historical detail – producing butter by hooking the churn to the axle, the description of Grace’s father’s gun, the mountain man reduced to selling poultry rather than pelts – and it truly immerses the reader in the setting. Imogen Martin manages to bring alive the trials of trail-life - whether that be the breaking of a wagon and having to abandon your treasures, the jeopardy of an attack, the reliance on doctors with very little medicine and even less knowledge. But her novel also tells of the strength of community, of banding together and getting through; and it interweaves it all with the most beautiful romance. Captain Randolph is your typical brooding but honourable hero, and Grace is your feisty, brave and capable heroine and I was willing them together from the very start and was utterly satisfied with how their romance played out.
The novel doesn’t pull its punches and there are many serious issues tackled well, but at its heart is a story of strength, resolve and courage with a delightful smattering of romance. This is going to be one of my favourite reads of the year and one I genuinely expect to re-read when my heart needs a lift and my mind craves an escape. Flawless.

A romantic read that really captures the landscape and hardships of the Oregon trail. This book is real escapism with a vivid sense of the frontier and wagon train life. Full of adventure, romance and peril, the story of a woman’s courage and the friends, enemies and lover she meets along the way.

Missouri, 1846 and Grace Sinclair and her ten year old brother Tom, had quickly packed their meagre belongings and joined the wagon train, to head along the wild and desolate Oregon trail to their destination, to join their brother Zachary, and safety. Their parents had died not long before of cholera and Grace vowed to protect Tom with everything she had. She knew the journey ahead would be hard; would test them all - but she was determined.

Captain James Randolph was in charge of the long trip - he'd made it before - and was a strong leader over his soldiers and the travellers. But he scared most of the women and children with his aloof and stern demeanor. When trouble struck soon after leaving Fort Laramie, both Grace and Randolph became involved. Randolph was furious, but a plan needed to be made and executed. Could it work? With the new friends Grace had made - Mrs Eliot, Lillian Hollingswood and Eunice Turner (wife of Randolph's best friend, and second in charge) - she had the support she needed. But the way ahead was treacherous and the threat of attacks by the local Indians high...

I was looking forward to To the Wild Horizon very much, and I wasn't disappointed. Imogen Martin hit the nail on the head with this one; wild west at its best, and I loved it. The many months long journey over wild and rough terrain; the crossing of rivers, some small, some wide and flowing fast; damage to the wagons; illness which swept the group and more. I was captivated from the beginning and was sad to finish. I read the author's previous book - Under a Gilded Sky - and loved that one as well. I'm looking forward to finding out what the author has in mind for us next. Highly recommended.

With thanks to NetGalley and Storm Publishing for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.

Grace has to suddenly leave the town of Independence so joins the first wagon train of the year travelling to Oregon with her younger brother Tom, rather than waiting for a safer time. In charge of the wagon train is Captain James Randolph, a strict military man who would not normally let a single woman travel on her own, so she has to tell a lie. The story continues detailing the risks of travelling in this time as they head West.
This book reminds me of how much I enjoy stories set in American Historical times. I'm not sure how I would cope with the trials and tribulations that they had to endure with terrible conditions, lack of food and illness. Now people complain it they don't have the latest electronic gizmo....
The romantic side is the begrudging, growing attraction between Grace and James, she sees the more compassionate man behind the gruff exterior whilst he starts to admire her grit. There are a couple of fairly spicy moments if they're not your thing. Recommended if you enjoy American Historical Romances or would like to try one.

I couldn't stop reading this book!
The storytelling and writing is so easy, it flows and I felt completely immersed in the World.
Grace is a likeable and strong Female character, she proves herself over and over, her determination is empowering, and while she came across as a bit too stubborn at times, you believe her reasons and the greater situations impact on her choices.

Brilliant read, thank you Netgalley and the publishers for a chance to read and review this ARC!

I loved the author’s debut novel, Under a Gilded Sky, so I was excited to pick up her second book, which did not disappoint. I’ll admit that I liked the first book better, but this one was still highly enjoyable.

I’ve been exploring more Western novels, so this was my first time being part of a wagon train on a pioneer trail heading west to Oregon in the mid-nineteenth century. I loved the setting and all the locations that were included in this story. You could tell the author did her research because there were so many detailed descriptions that immersed you in this world. I loved reading about the culture back then, how things were done, and how people lived. I felt completely transported back in time and felt like I was part of this caravan of settlers.

There were some parts that slowed down a bit for me, but I was never bored. For the most part, I thought the pacing was great. I was very interested to know what was going to happen next. There were even a few suspenseful action sequences that helped keep me entertained. I wished there were a few more of these types of action scenes though.

I really liked both main characters. Grace is a strong-willed, resourceful, clever, and independent woman. But she has a kind, compassionate heart that wants to help people when they are in distress. She’s easy to love and root for because she cares so much about others. Then, Captain Randolph is a gruff, brooding, stern, and disciplined man who takes his job very seriously and relies on order and structure. But then, his world is turned upside down when he meets Grace. She softens him and melts his cold heart that he’s tucked away for so long. It took a few chapters to like his character, but the further I got into the story, the more he grew on me, and then I became very fond of him.

I enjoyed watching their romance develop; however, the pacing was a little off for me. It started out a slow burn, but then suddenly, they were madly in love with each other. It felt like we went from 0 to 100, and it felt jarring. I understand that this trip took many months and things happened off-page, but from what we read and the scenes we get of them together, it felt a bit rushed and out of place. I also didn’t care for the steamier parts. I prefer clean, closed-door romances, like her first book, so I was surprised to see a little bit of spice in this book. It’s not a lot, but it’s more than I felt comfortable reading. But overall, I enjoyed Grace and Randolph as a couple and rooted for them until the end.

I also didn’t care for the parts of the story that centered around the rape of one of the pioneer women on the train. It happens off-page, so there aren’t any explicit details about it, but it was uncomfortable to read about. Then, there is an on-page attempted rape scene that could be a trigger for some readers. Also know that due to this time period, there is a good amount of sexism and misogyny from the men toward the women.

Overall, I really enjoyed this story, getting to know the characters, and going on this adventure out West with them. I loved the romance and watching the couple come together. The details of this historical story felt realistic, believable, and vivid, so it was easy to visualize. I liked watching women break stereotypes of this time period. Definitely recommend!

Thank you to the author, publisher, and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this advanced copy in exchange for an honest review. These are my own thoughts and opinions.

Having recently finished “To the Wild Horizon” by Imogen Martin, I am happy to have had the chance to read the Advanced Reader’s Edition e-copy; thank you NetGalley and Storm Publishing.

This entertaining historical novel was filled from beginning to end with pioneer perseverance and passion. Grace's journey west was vivid with mud, dust and drama as the wagon train overlanders, and the soldiers accompanying them, took me along with them back in time to 1864. The letter exchange using pages from the family bible will stay with me when I remember favorite moments from this story of courage, determination and camaraderie.

This is a book that I already know I’ll be thinking about for a long time. It is the perfect blend of adventure, romance, and a woman’s strength. I fell in love with Grace and her compassionate heart. She is a character that you root for at every turn, especially when the odds are stacked against her. The enemies to lovers through line perfectly balanced the story of survival and grit. I couldn’t put this down.

Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for this ARC. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Grace Sinclair and her ten year old brother Tom are making the journey from Independence Missouri to Oregon to join their older brother Zachary who farms there. With her parents dead from fever, she knows she has little chance of joining the wagon train as a single woman with a child. However, she manages to trick Captain Randolph who is in charge of the cavalry contingent protecting the train, in letter her join.

The story is well written and has been thoroughly researched, resulting in a very realistic portrayal of the life of those pioneers who headed west in the mid-1800s. Grace is a strong individual, determined to reach her destination. As she meets each daily challenge, the one thing that still haunts her is the memory of shooting the man who tried to attack her back in Independence. She knows he’s probably dead and is concerned about the repercussions for both herself and Tom.
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Captain James Randolph is a solitary and serious character. His life has been blighted by a capricious fiancée who broke off their engagement to marry a man from a wealthier family. It has made him wary of women and as a consequence he has thrown himself into his army career. He is usually immune to the fairer sex, but there's certainly something about Grace that gets under his skin.

As you can imagine there is plenty of drama during this difficult overland journey, and, of course, ultimately a romance. Although I enjoyed the way Grace and James Randolph gradually fell in love, personally I wasn’t sure the intimate love scene between them sat right in the context of the story. Other than this one observation, I very much enjoyed the read and look forward to the author’s next book.

I would like to thank Storm Publishing, the author and Netgalley for an ARC of To The Wild Horizon in exchange for an honest review.

It is a lovely love story, along with a bunch of historical facts related to people moving to the West in the USA. I was surprised by the fact that the rape crime got some punishment in 1846. The scenario shows the importance of the women to speak up. I loved reading the book.

I absolutely loved this book. I couldn’t put it down. I couldn’t fall asleep because I had to know what was going to happen next. Incredible character development. Incredible characters. I loved every second of this book.

This book was brilliant--it absolutely swept me away into the world of the story, which I love! I love pioneer stories that celebrate integrity and grit, and this definitely did, with lots of evocative descriptions of the Oregon Trail and how hard life was on it. Grace was a wonderful heroine, spunky and strong, and she was matched by a hero who had a terrific emotional journey throughout the book--prickly and standoffish at the start, and genuinely learning to change and trust by the end. Highly recommended!

I loved Imogen Martin’s debut Under a Gilded Sky, so when I heard about this one I just had to read it. The author doesn’t disappoint- once again I was swept away to nineteenth century America, this time on the pioneer trail. A skilfully woven romance, I loved Grace for her quiet strength and determination. She’s a loyal and devoted sister, a sharp-shooter, and resourceful in the face of problems. She’s prepared to risk her own reputation for the sake of someone more vulnerable than herself.
I also loved Captain Randolph. He’s everything you need in a romantic hero. Tall, dark, handsome and brooding, but with strong principles and kindness under the gruff exterior. The romantic scenes were well written and I enjoyed the will they/won’t they storyline as the couple encountered a series of obstacles.
The author doesn’t shrink from showing how patriarchal attitudes at the time affected women’s lives.
I’ll eagerly anticipate this author’s next novel, having so greatly enjoyed her first two. This is a 4.5 star read for me.