A February Romance

February 17, 2011

I’m not usually a romance novel reader, but, just for February, I thought I would give one a try. We did celebrate Valentine’s Day this month, after all.  I really didn’t know how to even choose a romance novel that wouldn’t be over the top dramatic.  I wanted something that had heart as well as a love story, and that’s why I chose the Steeple Hill collection, which incorporates inspirational story lines into heartfelt romances.

I decided on Second Chance Ranch by Leann Harris. Harris introduces us to Zach McClure, an injured Iraq War vet, who has returned home and needs to recover both physically and emotionally from active duty. Zach lost his foot in Iraq and decides to try equine therapy to gain strength and mobility with this prosthetic. A one-time rodeo champ, Zach is familiar with horses, but he faces new challenges as an amputee.  He is angry about his injury and looks to find hope and peace at Sophie’s Albuquerque ranch.

Sophie, an ex-military medic, signs on to work with Zach and, in turn, Zach helps counsel other patients, including kids with Downs Syndrome and stroke survivors. Zach’s daily lessons with his horse, Prince Charming, bring him closer to a normal life and closer to Sophie. As their relationship grows, Zach finds that he has found peace at the ranch and true love with Sophie.

For more novels by Leann Harris, browse the MCPL catalog and you might find a novel to celebrate the season of love!

Jessica S.
Colbern Road Branch