Two lost hearts meet and fall for each other in this lovely romance from Tracey Garvis Graves. Wren Waters has found some peace from her ordeal with the outdoor activity of geocaching. When she takes a solo vacation to Oregon, little does she know her life will be altered in another way when she meets Marshall Hendricks, a man who is also using the peace of the forest as a balm on his devastated soul. Two lost hearts can find each other.

This is a quiet, falling-in-love story between two mature adults and I thought it was lovely. It restored my faith in power of a romance novel to make the reader believe in love. It's by no means a perfect love either. Both Marshall and Wren have a lot to deal with before they can truly embrace their happy ever after, but it was so worth the time. Really enjoyed this.

I was deeply moved by the story of Wren Waters, who, following personal tragedies, finds an unexpected refuge in geocaching. This activity leads her on a transformative journey in Oregon, where she crosses paths with Marshall Hendricks, a psychologist facing his sorrows; their initial pragmatic alliance for safety blossoms into a profound bond, offering both a chance at healing. The book beautifully explores themes of grief, recovery, and the healing power of nature and human connection. I was particularly drawn to the unique backdrop of geocaching, which metaphorically underscores the story's exploration of searching for meaning and hope amidst life's trials. It's a poignant and uplifting tale that resonates deeply.

This captivating story pulled me in from the very beginning. The author writes so beautifully, I felt like I was in the Pacific Northwest forest with the characters. I was also immediately intrigued by both of the characters pasts, they wear their extreme grief on their sleeves. Despite that, the story didn’t feel emotionally heavy or inordinately melancholy. The author managed to write an engaging story with soft emotions, subtlety and beautiful writing, that happens to include grief and trauma. Of course there’s sadness, but that’s not the overall vibe.
Wren has traveled across the US to Oregon to go Geocaching ( Geocaching is using GPS to find hidden objects using a shared social app. It’s to get people outdoors and experience new places, essentially a treasure hunt for the experience.) It becomes clear very early that this trip is much more, it has deeper meaning for her.
She meets Marshall on the trail in the beginning, but brushes him off.
They meet a bit later in a very shocking situation. I could feel Wren’s emotions, it was so intense. It’s a short scene that packs a big punch. Marshall then steps in to her life as a protector, as a travel buddy and a safety net.
I adore these two wonderful characters. They’re lost, they are grieving, but they’re reaching out to life in an attempt to move forward.
It’s a journey of two heartbroken people seemingly running from problems. But, what if they are running towards their healing? What if they are exactly what the other needs to move forward? Or, is it a trauma bond that’s unhealthy? I wondered these things as I was reading.
Their interactions go from basic and tentative, to them quickly developing a friendly relationship with great banter, big emotional reveals and, then… some wonderful butterfly inducing flirting.
It’s a quietly stunning and incredibly emotional story. The pace is so pitch perfect.
Wren and Marshall are characters that make understandable decisions, they’re so relatable and sympathetic.
The relationship they develop is complex, it’s easy away from home to be free, but nothing stay’s uncomplicated forever. They have some obstacles and big decisions to make.
I adore this beautiful story and the wonderful characters journey was entertaining and also inspiring. I can’t wait to read more by this talented author.

When I pick up a book by Tracey Garvis Graves, I already have certain expectations: realistic and flawed characters, a multi-layered story, and an emotional aspect that will engage my heart as well as my mind. The Trail of Lost Hearts delivered on all fronts.

Wren is 34, engaged, and a successful social media manager when the rug is pulled from under her. The sudden death of her fiancé leaves her floundering. Feeling unmoored and lacking confidence, she treks from Ohio to Oregon for a geocaching trip. When it becomes apparent that hiking solo is not the best option, she teams with fellow hiker/geocacher Marshall for the remainder of her trip. Marshall is thoughtful and kind – the perfect traveling companion – and she finds herself opening up to him and sharing her heartache and confusion. While the attraction between them is apparent, it is just as obvious that Marshall is not being as forthcoming with Wren. Determined to no longer settle for less than she deserves, Wren returns home to Ohio - confused and, yet again, heartbroken. Her life very quickly takes another unexpected turn and she is forced to adjust, even while Marshall is never far from her thoughts.

One of my favorites aspects in a Tracey Garvis Graves novel are her characters. They are not cookie cutter archetypes, but people who feel as if they were plucked from the real world: your friend, your coworker, your neighbor. People who are dealing with the messiness of Life – sometimes struggling, sometimes overcoming, but almost always doing the best that they can. Wren and Marshall were so genuinely likable, and I wanted the very best for them – both separately and together. I had so much admiration for Wren as she found her footing and made steps to reclaim her life. Her bravery and her determination to do the right thing had me cheering her on. At the same time, my heart ached for Marshall and I wanted nothing more than for him to find peace.

The Trail of Lost Hearts is a story of love and loss, healing and second chances. Filled with heartache, humor, adventure, and romance, this latest novel from Graves is one I will not hesitate to recommend.

I'm not going to think too much about the fact that the romances I've most enjoyed lately involve death. Perhaps it's because I generally dislike the contrived conflict that many romances contain. In any event...

Wren is reelin g from the sudden death of her fiance, but her grief is tempered with anger for the shocking discovery she made after he died. The only thing that gets her out of bed is her new hobby of geocaching. Because she can work from anywhere, she takes a geocaching trip to Oregon.

Her first day, she meets Marshall on the trail. He's friendly and attractive, but she really would prefer to be alone. Until a chance encounter reminds her there's safety in numbers. Wren and Marshall decide to travel together, as friends, of course, even if Wren finds herself increasingly attracted to Marshall. But can she trust him when she refuses to be as open with her as she's been with him?

This book is full of surprises, but Wren and Marshall are so very likable. Describing the plot line makes it sound implausible but it really works. Tracy Garvis Graves is one of my favorite authors and her latest book does not disappoint. #TheTrailofLostHearts #NetGalley

I was drawn to this story due to the hiking and geo caching, and the potential romance. The first half finds When on a solo trek after suffering a serious relationship blow. He meets Marshall who is also on the hunt for the elusive trail canisters. I found the first part kind of slow but the descriptions of the surrounding and the geo cache hunt was interesting. The second half picks up with some sexy bits and a plot twist. Overall a good romance with a strong female lead and some seriously sappy moments.

Copy provided by the publisher and netgalley

This was such a wonderful read.

I am a longtime fan of Tracey Garvis Graves, and this book lives up to all her previous titles. This is not a light read - which the dialogue and the banter can be light, there is so much emotion between the pages. Laughter and joy within all the potential sadness.

Such a wonderful book! Definitely add this to your book club lists.

In this emotionally charged novel, New York Times bestselling author Tracey Garvis Graves takes readers on a transformative journey where two lost souls find unexpected courage to love again.

Wren Waters, at thirty-four years old, believes that the universe sends exactly what we need if we pay attention. However, her worldview shatters when life delivers two unexpected blows, leaving her heartbroken and seeking solace. Geocaching—an outdoor activity using GPS to find hidden objects—becomes her lifeline, pulling her out of despair.

Marshall Hendricks, a psychologist dealing with his own life-altering events, crosses paths with Wren. Initially rebuffed, he rescues her from a horrifying encounter during their geocaching adventure. Their platonic road trip gradually blossoms into something deeper, revealing layers of vulnerability and connection.

The book explores grief, resilience, and the unexpected ways people heal. Wren’s journey is a testament to the human spirit’s capacity for renewal. Marshall’s presence challenges her trust issues, and their chemistry sparks hope.

Tracey Garvis Graves weaves a beautifully written narrative. The characters are relatable, and their emotional arcs resonate. The book balances heartache with moments of warmth and growth.

Overall, “The Trail of Lost Hearts” is a poignant exploration of love, loss, and second chances. While the second half introduces twists that change the tone, it remains emotional and heartwarming. The characters’ development and the unique backdrop of geocaching make this a memorable read.

In summary, if you’re drawn to stories of healing, resilience, and unexpected connections, this book is worth exploring.

After Wren's fiance is killed in a car accident she has to learn to live without the man she thought she loved and deal with a devastating secret he has been keeping. In order to help her heal and reconcile the relationship she heads to Oregon to hike and geocache. On her first hike she ends up in a dangerous situation and is helped by Marshall. After that they decide to team up. Marshall also has a past that he is healing from. Can the two come together or will their pasts keeep them apart?

I liked Marshall and Wren although at times Wren got on my nerves. While she required transparency from Marshall she was pretty good at keeping secrets from him. Oregon is beautiful and there were lots of description of breathtaking scenery. Although I had an idea of how the story would turn out I cared enough about the players to get to the end.

I would like to thank Netgalley and St. Martin's Press for providing me with a digital copy.

Graves always puts her characters in the most interesting situations that are unpredictable. I wasn’t sure where this book was going to go after the first few chapters, then when the twist was revealed, I was pretty shocked! The way her characters have to navigate their way through these uncommon problems is always so fun to watch. This book is filled with so much heartache, and redemption and love. It is a book that is good for the soul! About finding your own way in life, when life has given you more than you think you’re capable of handling. To persevere and find your new normal when your life gets turned upside down. I would recommend for anyone looking for a great read

I loved this book. I have enjoyed every book that I have read by Tracey Garvis Graves. I was unfamiliar with geocaching before reading this novel, but I am so intrigued by it now. While this book has romance, I enjoyed the growth of Wren throughout this book. I enjoyed the friendship that developed between Wren and Marshall, how Marshall helped Wren come to terms with her grief and realize not only what she wants from a partner in life, but what she deserves and what she will no longer settle for.

Thank you to Netgalley for the opportunity to read and review this book. When Wren's world is turned upside down in the sudden death of her fiancé Ohio, she heads to Oregon to listen to the Universe and walk the trails.....she comes across Marshall, who is dealing with his own loss. This book is a beautiful story of loss, grief, healing and new beginnings. Totally recommend.

⭐️⭐️⭐️✨

Wren needs to get away, life has handed her a big lemon, and geocaching in Oregon seems perfect. Enter Marshall helping her out of a sticky situation, and dealing with his own lemons. Can these two put the past behind them make lemonade?

Enjoyable, fun, fast read. It was perfect for me after finishing a slower moving book. Situations were ‘picked from the headlines’, not necessarily relatable but realistic by todays standards. I’ve never done geocaching, but I admit it does sound fun. I loved the descriptive scenery, Oregon is a place I’d love to visit. I can’t say I loved Wren, I found her naive. She demanded transparency and honesty, but didn’t fully follow her own rules. I could appreciate Marshall, helping others but putting his issues second. First book by this author and I look forward to reading her again.

Thanks to St. Martins Press and NetGalley for this ARC. This is my honest opinion.

The Trail of Lost Hearts is the 10th novel by Tracey Garvis Graves. After suffering a traumatic loss coupled with the reveal of a shocking secret, Wren Waters is slowly digging herself out from under a cloud of despair. With the help of her best friend, hiking, and geocaching, Wren is beginning to see the light. This spurs Wren on to do a solo geocaching trip to the Portland, Oregon area. However, trouble ensues on Wren’s first outing. If it weren’t for the chivalry of Marshall Hendricks, Wren has no idea what might have become of her.

Marshall Hendricks, practicing psychologist, is on his own journey coming to terms with great loss. Geocaching is also his way of focusing outside himself as he tries to heal. Wren and Marshall join forces for safety and company on their travels. Wren completely opens up to Marshall and shares her experiences. However, while Marshall does confide some, he never completely opens up. Even with the attraction that zings between them, after what Wren experienced before she has promised herself she will never settle for anything less than full disclosure again and she wings her way back to Ohio. But that is far from the end of the story!

This is such a well plotted story with extremely well drawn characters. There are quite a few surprises along the journey that add to the heart felt tale being told. I very much enjoyed this book and I do recommend it!

Thank you to the publisher for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own. ⁣

Tracey Garvis Graves' earlier books were favorites of mine so I couldn't wait to dive into this one! While the first half was wonderful - and very interesting with the addition of the hobby of geocaching, my interest waned in the second half. There is a major plot twist that I won't spoil here and I am glad I didn't know about it before I read the book. I did love Wren and Marshall's slow-burn romance and I think this story will be a hit with many readers. Not so much for me, but I look forward to reading the author's future books and I still would highly recommend her backlist.

I love Tracey’s books and they just keep getting better, this story captured my heart completely. Powerful, emotional and moving. I think I have a new favorite from her. All the stars.

Thank you St. Martin's Press and Macmillan Audio for this gifted copy.

Wren Waters is grieving the loss of someone very important to her. During her grieving process, she has managed to find solace in the act of geocaching and when we meet her, she is in the mountains on a solo trip. The trip is meant to be both a distraction as well as another step toward healing, but takes an unexpected turn when she is accosted by two men but then rescued by Marshall Hendricks, a fellow geocacher. Wren is a bit leery of her rescuer but finally decides it would be safer to team up with Marshall. It turns out that Marshall is also reeling from a heartbreaking loss so the two of them are going through some similar things emotionally.

I’m a big fan of stories that present us with characters who are working their way through grief. Grief is just such a universal experience that it’s easy to relate to characters who are dealing with it and to become fully invested in them finding their way through it to healing and to a second chance at happiness.

I loved the relationship that blossoms between Wren and Marshall as they hike together. The growth from strangers to friends to more than friends felt very organic, and it was all too easy to root for them to end up together. That said, even though I did enjoy that bit of romance included, it was each character’s personal journey to healing that really made this book such a special read for me.

I have some mixed feelings about this book, but mostly good ones.

Wren has just suffered two life changing events, almost simultaneously. As a result, she decides to take a geocaching trip to Oregon. Geocaching is when you sear for hidden objects using a GPS on hikes. While on her trip, she runs into Marshall. A psychologist who, similarly, is on a geocaching trip to try to recover from a life altering event. As they spend time together, they realize that maybe what they needed wasn’t a solo trip, but a trip with someone who can help them heal.

I loved the first half of this book. I really enjoyed Wren and Marshall exploring Oregon. I liked their banter and I enjoyed the description of the Pacific Northwest. The book flew by as I followed their journey and learned their stories.

When Wren heads back to Ohio at the 60% mark, I liked it a little bit less. There were some surprising plot points I don’t want to spoil that I didn’t love. I think the author did a good job writing them and I didn’t mind how they played out, it’s just not my favorite type of plot if that makes sense.

The first half of this book sort of reminded me of Happiness for Beginners. It tackles a lot of serious subject matter in a very honest yet palatable way. I never felt like this book got too heavy, nor did I feel like it was trying to make light of trauma.

This book is a solid 3.5 stars for me, but I feel good about rounding it up to 4 stars. I think if you enjoy books like Happiness for Beginners and Eat Pray Love, you will enjoy this one. It has a nice balance between romance, comedy, and drama. The pacing is quick and I had fun reading it. I just worry it might end up being a bit forgettable when I look back on the books I read this year.

The Trail of Broken Hearts by Tracey Garvis Graves is an emotional read that touches on the broken parts of people and if they’re able to become whole again.

Wren Waters is dealt a devastating blow that causes immense grief. Within hours it’s followed up by another life altering blow. Of course, she’s a hot mess as she wallows in her anger, misery, and sadness. Wren takes a well-needed solo trip to do some geocaching and time to mentally reset.

Enter Marshall, a fellow geocacher, who comes to her rescue when she’s put in a dangerous situation. He seems like a good guy but so did her ex, so why should she trust any man. He is also dealing with his own issues but he’s holding back and so is she.

The story focuses on the heart, the power of healing and most importantly on trusting yourself to fall in love again. Vulnerability isn’t easy and this story beautifully shares how two shattered hearts can heal and love again. This book will give you all the feels.

After the last couple of books I read (which tired my brain), I due to read an easy book. That means a book where I don’t have to take notes every 5 minutes and googling words/phrases I need help understanding. And I was expecting The Trail of Lost Hearts to be a book similar to what I just finished. So, imagine my surprise when it was the complete opposite. Now, I am not saying that this book is an easy read (it deals with loss and grief), but it didn’t give me a headache reading it. Plus, I like the author, having read her previous books.

The Trail of Lost Hearts’ storyline follows Wren’s recovery after her fiancee’s death. I found the storyline to be well-written. It was also fascinating that Wren and Marshall’s hobby, geocaching, was featured. Geocaching is something that I need to become more familiar with, and the author opened a whole new world for me.

Wren’s story was heartbreaking. She was dealt two considerable blows in one night, and I didn’t blame her for crawling into bed and staying there. I liked seeing Wren’s healing as she got deeper into her geocaching journey. What she experienced on the trail helped her accept what happened, and her experiences toughened her for the next twist in her storyline.

I liked Marshall, but I wish the author had revealed his backstory to Wren sooner. What he went through significantly damaged him. Marshall’s healing was as well documented as Wren’s, but you could see it in his emails, texts, and phone calls with Wren. By the end of the book, Marshall seemed to be at peace.

I know this book was billed as a romance, but it was more about healing than romance. I enjoyed seeing both Wren and Marshall heal from their individual trauma. Wren’s journey to healing was incredible. She went from being angry, bitter, and grief-stricken to one who was at peace with what happened. While Marshall’s experience wasn’t as in-depth as Wren’s, I got the same sense of peace from him.

The romance angle of The Trail of Lost Hearts was sweet. I liked that both Wren and Marshall had to fight to keep their relationship going. Their relationship was one of the more true-to-life ones that I have read. They are also some of my favorite fictional couples.

The end of The Trail of Lost Hearts was bittersweet. I liked that Wren got closure (I can’t say with who or why because it is a huge spoiler). I also liked that Marshall made the right choice. And the epilogue was fantastic!!!

Many thanks to St. Martin’s Press, NetGalley, and Travey Garvis Graves for allowing me to read and review this ARC of The Trail of Lost Hearts. All opinions stated in this review are mine.