The Trouble With Jasmine (American State Flower)

College student and equestrian Jasmine Gray’s life has been turned upside down. She’s still reeling from the loss of her father, successful rancher Hamilton Gray, when her newly discovered sister, Carly Shepherd arrives at the ranch to visit and plan her wedding. With the spring horse competition ahead, Jasmine’s in a funk and looking for a distraction.

Ranch hand Zach Crawford tries to ignore his growing feelings for Jasmine because he knows he wouldn’t measure up to Hamilton Gray or his wife’s standards. Jasmine’s daily quest to snag him only adds to his frustration. If he could get her to focus on the upcoming horse show and not on him, then maybe he’d have time to figure out his own future. Grieving the loss of his little brother who had Down’s syndrome, Zach finds it difficult not to be drawn to Jasmine in her grief.

Memories of the past and the promise of the future collide with the horse competition and wedding both at hand. Can Jasmine pull herself together to win? If so, does she have the courage to walk away afterwards and pursue a future outside the ranch, if doing so means leaving Zach behind?

“The Trouble With Jasmine” is a continuation of “Silent Stars of Bethlehem,” by the same author.