Loving a Wild Stranger

This full-length romance novel is set in the Michigan Territory and blends adventure with a sensual love story.

A woman running from her past… straight into the arms of an untamed man

In a moment of desperation, Kathleen Stanton flees her pampered life in Kingston, New York and ends up stranded in a small town in the Michigan Territory. Out of money and forced to rely on her instincts, she impersonates a handsome stranger’s mail-order bride.

Committed to her deception, Kathleen calls herself Michelle and starts her new life with Luther in an isolated cabin in the wilderness. Luther can’t believe his luck when his beautiful bride arrives, but something doesn’t feel right about his new wife. Michelle has terrifying nightmares involving a man named Roger and is reluctant to talk about where she came from.

Luther’s friend, Redfeather visits and tries to convince Luther to send Michelle back east. Distrusting Michelle, he warns Luther that his bride is not what she seems. But Luther is in love with Michelle, and he is harboring a secret of his own—one that might force Michelle to reject him when she learns the truth.

Michelle falls in love with Luther and adapts to her new way of life. Together, they face off against brutal townspeople and overcome harsh living conditions. When they finally give in to their desires and agree to become a proper man and wife, a dark figure from Michelle’s past resurfaces and threatens to destroy everything.

Praise for Loving a Wild Stranger...

“Wilkins (Trust with Hearts) has created a wonderfully sweet romance. The fantastic tension between the two characters as they grapple with their sudden newlywed status and the awkwardness that comes with marrying a perfect stranger keeps this story emotional and realistic as they fall in love. The story flows nicely and does not rush the romance. Wilkins keeps readers interested with strong, complex characters. Fans of pioneer romances will enjoy this one.” - Publisher's Weekly

"5 stars! The descriptions were so detailed I felt I was in that world. I was pulled in right away. Michelle was such an interesting heroine. She's smart and resourceful and certainly a match for the brooding hero, Luther. Their story unfolds in a way that kept me turning the pages, and I was rooting for them to find happiness together. It's one of those books where you can't wait to find out what happens once secrets are revealed, yet you want to keep the story going" - N.G. Amazon Review

"4 stars! This book has the potential to be made into a movie. It took over my life. I ignored everyone and everything. Nothing was going to interrupt my time with Luther. Sigh…Luther, what a dreamy hero. I envied the heroine, Michelle. Loving a Wild Stranger reminded me of the 1970s T.V. show, Grizzly Adams – one of my favorite childhood television shows.

Luther was very kind, gentle, sweet yet strong, dependable, honest, and brave. The chemistry between Luther and Michelle was tangible. The writing style made the book come to life as if I were there. The plot was really great. There was suspense threaded throughout the book pertaining to Michele’s past that had a lot to do with me not being able to put the book down. It was clever how Ms. Wilkins incorporated many plot threads and weaved them all together.

I recommend this book and will be keeping it on my keeper shelf. I was thoroughly entertained throughout the story. I would love to switch places with Michele and spend the rest of my days with Luther if I could. I would recommend reading Loving a Wild Stranger while relaxing by a lake!" - Long and Short Reviews