Wilderness Heart

Jacqueline Hopkins
Jacqueline Hopkins (2011)
ISBN 9781460 923917
Reviewed by Marissa Libbit for Reader Views (9/11)


 “Wilderness Heart” by Jacqueline Hopkins is the fictional tale of Lyn, a female hunting guide in Idaho who leads groups into the terrain in search of animals such as elk or bear.  Lyn is unpopular to men who judge that she will be a hindrance more than a help since she is a woman.  However, she holds her own and is adept at her job.  Engaged to a man she doesn’t particularly love anymore, she falls for Nic Randall, a man with hidden motives.  While not liking the lead Lyn takes as a female, he does enjoy her physical beauty and begins to appreciate her capability as a hunter.  Throughout the book, Lyn wrestles with her feelings for Nic and his desire to cut down the timber of Idaho.  She also dislikes his desire to change some of her habits.  The reader will discover whether Nic and Lyn can overcome obstacles to develop a lasting romance. 
 
 “Wilderness Heart” starts with interest.  Can a female prove herself as an effective hunting guide in the face of male stereotyping?  The author does a good job forming the wilderness setting in the reader’s mind.  Lyn is likable.  She strives to prove herself in a man’s world without conforming to someone else’s ideals.  I really root for her to maintain her independence.  Yet, I feel like she fails in some respects.  She is dominated by men telling her what to do, and I found her giving in to Nic’s desires too often.  I wanted her to be stronger, and Nic to back off. 

 “Wilderness Heart” has a nice premise and would appeal to those that enjoy hunting or the wilderness. The Idaho backdrop was brought to life in a way that the reader became absorbed into the scenes. Although lacking the tension I prefer the plot moved quickly and had the elements of contemporary romance. I cheer for Lyn and wish her the happiness she desires!

 

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