This novel is about horses, those who love them, a ranch in Montana, and the people who visit and live there. Five children arrive at the ranch for a summer of learning to ride and experiencing ranch life. Their lives are affected by this summer, each in a different way. Jane and Jake Weston own the Double J Ranch in Montana's Bitterroot Valley. Jane loves teaching children and Jake shoes horses for a living. Chief Singing Water, an old Indian who lives in his tepee by the rushing river, provides an interest for the children and is Jane's and Jake's good friend. Dawn, a half Caucasian, half...

Jessie hopes for a quiet country life when she marries photographer Jonathon Lindstrom and they settle into the Double-J ranch in Montana's Bitterroot Valley. Enfolded in her husband's love and in the beauty of the valley, Jessie never imagines evil will find her. But then a man from the past arrives to threaten her and her child. In time the ranch family grows to include Cal, a hired handyman with a doubtful past, Danielle, the woman who falls in love with him, and Will, a troubled Native American boy. Also welcomed into the group is a new colt, a delightful creature that captures every...

Abigail Grayson, a widow, is bitter, lonely, and resentful concerning her paid companion, her daughter who ran away when she was a teenager, her son who behaves responsibly but lacks warmth, and most of all she resents old age. This situation changes mysteriously after a conversation with an old friend. Her companion, Nancy, somehow becomes a close and valued friend. Abby discovers Stella, a homeless woman she impulsively takes home, and the three ladies embark on various activities, some of which are questionable but all are hilarious. They keep Sonny, the local cop, busy trying to keep them...