Chasing Her Dream

I enjoyed this inspirational romance for many reasons. First, I appreciate a Christian worldview that shows rather than preaches. While faith is a priority for the characters, it is not part of every conversation or scene. Their conversations, emotions, and conflicts are realistic and define the folks well. Spiritual lessons are gently demonstrated. The church is portrayed as a true family, helping those in need without seeking anything in return. Rheanna, mother of 6-year-old Amelia, has had many challenges in her life. She grew up without a father, her mother’s priorities were her boyfriend of the month, and she spent summers with the great-uncle she thought never cared about her. As an adult, she was betrayed by her now ex-husband. Still, she is a strong believer in God. She recently inherited her great-uncle’s horse ranch. Due to his early-onset Alzheimer’s and mismanagement by former staff members, she is trying desperately to save it. She needs a way to pay the IRS for past years. Rheanna’s friend Ivy, who came to Texas with her, is spending more than she’s earning or contributing with her new business. Rheanna never planned to run into Dave again. At a teen, he had been her best friend at the ranch, second only to her beloved horse, Bella. He made promises, then when they were 16, without a word, he and his parents moved away amid terrible crises in her life. He is in town now for a wedding and has little to do until spring flood waters recede from his Wyoming ranch. Much of his herd was washed away, and he could lose what he had put so much into. The sheriff volunteered Dave to drive Rheanna and her horse trailer to assist in the rescue of at least 20 abused, neglected horses. While they and other ranchers rounded up the horses, unbeknownst to Rheanna, her friend volunteered the ranch to place the horses at. Stunned, there is no way she can begin to afford the veterinary care and special needs of the rescues. She was assured that the town would pull together to help if she can house them until adoptable. Rheanna hires Dave as a riding instructor and trainer until they find a long-term hire. Whether they can set aside their feelings to work together will be interesting, especially when six-year-old Amelia begins to grow attached to Dave. As friends at the church help Rheanna prepare for a major event at the ranch that can pave the way to its future, secrets from the past slip out, as secrets tend to do. Twists and turns change or add to the conflict. The author is gifted, especially at writing the perspective of each character. I admire Rheanna for taking on the ranch, not having had run one before, and Dave staying to help out. I really enjoyed every aspect of the story, especially when secrets escape and Dave and Rheanna have to rein in emotions that have simmered for many years. Whether they can save the ranch and at least be friends is a tale only they will show us. I highly recommend this to those who appreciate inspirational romances with realistic challenges, emotions, and faith. From a thankful heart: I received a complimentary copy of this novel, and this is my honest review.