Once a Rancher

Starred review from March 7, 2016
Readers are transported to Mustang Creek, Wyo., in this marvelous contemporary western trilogy launch, loosely connected to several of Miller’s previous books. Filmmaker Slater Carson is one of the three Carson boys, regarded as something like royalty in the small town. He’s barely finished shooting his latest documentary when Grace Emery comes storming into town with her teen stepson, Ryder, in tow. Grace made the move from Seattle to Mustang Creek in an attempt to build a new life for herself after a divorce. Even though she’s no longer with Ryder’s father, she still loves Ryder like he’s her own. Grace and Slater’s paths don’t so much cross as spectacularly collide, and the typical getting-to-know you dance is fraught with amazing chemistry. Current hot-topic issues such as blended families and nontraditional parenting are integrated seamlessly with a well-told romance. Faces familiar from Miller’s Bliss County series provide a warm counterpoint to the sizzling attraction and hint of mystery that draw the protagonists together. A dash of storytelling magic keeps the pages turning even as the way is paved for the next two books. Agent: Irene Goodman, Irene Goodman Literary.

April 15, 2016

From the moment titian-haired Grace Emery walks into his office on his family's sprawling ranch with her rebellious teenage stepson in tow, documentary filmmaker Slater Carson knows he wants to know her better. However, to wary Grace, divorced ex-cop and manager of a local resort and spa, wealthy, good-looking Slater has all the signs of a man to avoid. But Mustang Creek is a small town, and that will be hard, especially when events keep throwing them together--and when the attraction between them begins to sizzle. Difficult characters and tense situations add a touch of danger to the mix. VERDICT Two people with vastly different backgrounds discover a true partnership in a story that burgeons with Western flavor and rural, ranch-life charm. A solid start to a promising series set in Miller's beloved Mustang Creek. Miller (Christmas in Mustang Creek) lives in the country near Spokane.

Copyright 2016 Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

March 15, 2016
Slater Carson just wrapped his latest documentary and is ready for a well-deserved break at the family ranch in Wyoming. His peaceful retreat is interrupted when Grace Emery barges into his office one night with her unruly stepson, Ryder, in tow. Both feel an instant attraction to each other, but neither are ready for anything serious. Grace is trying to balance her life, which includes her ex-husband's rebellious son, a disgruntled ex-employee, and her new career running Mustang Creek's spa and resort. And now the notorious Slater Carson is after her, too? When Ryder starts working on the Carson ranch, Slater's charm and loving family quickly grow on Grace. In turn, her fiery spirit draws Slater closer. Is Slater ready to step away from his playboy ways? Miller (The Marriage Charm, 2015) is the queen of western romances, and fans will be thrilled with the first installment in her Carsons of Mustang Creek series, which features her signature wit, especially evident in the dynamic between Slater and his brothers.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2016, American Library Association.)