I’ve come to love western themed novels, whether they are historical or contemporary. Rodeo Ashes is a sweet Texan romance written by author Shannon Taylor Vannatter.

Laci Gentry is trying to make a new life for herself after losing her husband in a tragic death. With a son to care for she settles down near friends and reconnects with a former classmate, Quinn Remington. She accepts a job teaching kids how to ride at his ranch, returning herself to a former passion of her own, barrel racing. But soon she finds herself enjoying the company of a certain cowboy, Quinn.

Quinn had not seen Laci in years. He had admired her from afar in High School but has lost track of her. He had not known that she had been married to the famous Mel Gentry. In spite of a secret he keeps regarding Mel’s death, he cannot stop being drawn to the lovely widow.

This truly is a sweet and tender romance. New love is challenged and tested and faith and forgiveness put into place in a very real way. Healing is possible in time and God does bring beauty out of the ashes of our grief and guilt. This book shows those truths powerfully.