Wilderness Wanderings — Peggy L. Henderson

Blake Simmons gave up on himself – and life – two years ago when he lost his wife to a random act of violence. These days, not much brings him joy except his doting sister, and immersing himself in his historical research about the Westward Expansion of the 1850's. Bizarre circumstances with a crazy, purple-haired lady thrust Blake into a world where even his imagination pales in comparison. Nora Harker doesn't fit the mold of a mid-century farm wife.  Her passion is on the open trail, far away from city life. Fighting against stubborn male egos who can't see past traditional stereotypes, Nora has reached a dead-end, until a peculiar stranger unexpectedly offers her the chance of a lifetime. Working together proves to be more than just a learning experience for Blake and Nora. Each has something the other needs to reach their goals along the Oregon Trail. As deception and secrets threaten to tear them apart, can they find strength in each other and allow their hearts to be awakened before it's too late?