Tuesday, December 10, 2013

Home Fires by Lois Greiman

The Lazy Windmill is a ranch.  The family that lives there isn't related but they're still family.  Anyone that's been abused, has a problem or just needs a place to stay is welcome.  Everyone helps around the ranch cooking, cleaning and working with horses.  Taking children in and away from disruptive family lives is a good thing, but it doesn't mean the problems go away...

Kensington Books sent me an ARC of this book for review (thank you).  It was published in June, so check with your local bookstore for a copy.

Emily is pregnant and won't talk about her past.  She's an excellent cook and everyone looks forward to meals there.  Ty's mother abused him so badly, Cassie ended up taking her on and taking Ty home.  He lives at the neighboring ranch but works at her ranch during the day.  Sophia has parents with lots of money but no time for her.  She acts tough but she's hurt inside.  It's a good thing that Cassie has a big house and a big heart.

Sadly enough there are more young people in this type of situation than you would like to think.  When you're alone, everyone needs a friend.  I found myself admiring Cassie as well as being amused by how she orders the kids around.  She's like a drill sergeant on work details and they all respect her and do as she wishes.  She's never let them down and they won't let her down.

Colt is at the ranch next door and he's trying to court Cassie.  Cassie knows that bronc riders can have all the women they want and don't stay true to anyone.  When Colt quits bronc riding, she doesn't believe him.  She does her best to avoid him, but it's a bit hard to do when he's always helping at the ranch.

She's got vet bills she can't pay, people are trying to sue her, parents are giving the kids problems and Colt is at her kitchen table more than she is.  Somehow Cassie stands strong and makes it through.

I really enjoyed this read and I'm looking forward to the next book in the series, too.  If you like horses, families, and determination, you'll like this book.  

Happy reading.

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