Review: A Long Trail Rolling by Lizzi Tremayne

Title: A Long Trail Rolling (The Long Trails, #1)
Author: Lizzi Tremayne
Publisher: Blue Mist Publishing
Release Date: January 10, 2015
Acquired Via: Personal Collection
Escaping her father's killer, Aleksandra rode the Pony Express—full speed into the middle of the Indian Paiute Wars.

Seventeen year old Aleksandra, trained in the Cossack arts from infancy by her father, finds herself alone and running to prevent her Pa's killer from obtaining a secret coveted by the Russian Czar, one which could alter the forces of power in Europe. Disguised as a Pony Express rider in 1860's Utah Territory, she finds herself in even deeper trouble.

Her Californio boss Xavier has a strength to match her own, but can they overcome their differences before the ever-increasing odds overtake them?

With this debut Western Historical Adventure, Lizzi Tremayne won the 2014 RWNZ Pacific Hearts Award and was a finalist in the 2013 Great Beginnings Competition.

My Review

I went to the NZ launch of A Long Trail Rolling earlier this year (2015) and was intrigued by the author’s passion for horses and history. This passion is clearly demonstrated throughout the story. The protagonist, Aleks, shares Tremayne’s love for horses and cares for them more than she does for herself. Besides her interest in and love of horses, Aleks displays great skills in riding and combat.

Aleks is an admirably strong – if stubborn – young lady. She resolves to be a part of the Pony Express by disguising herself as a boy, and to this extent reminds me of Tamora Pierce’s series, The Song of the Lioness.

Romance sparked early in the story, and for my taste was a little too early. However, the relationship grew slowly and hit common hurdles between people who have loved, lost and are afraid to be vulnerable again. It was a refreshing realism.

The resolution was sound, but I was left with the feeling of a hurried ending. Perhaps it was due to the slow build up, but it was otherwise a fantastic read. I have no hesitation in giving A Long Trail Rolling five stars.

- 5/5 Stars -

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