AUTHOR: Laura Hodges Poole
DATE: 2016
PUBLISHER: Forget Me Not Romances
STARS: ****
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?
Jasmine—such a pretty name!—is used to getting her own way as the daughter of a respected and wealthy rancher. But without her father, her world is off-kilter, and she’s drifting aimlessly. Zach challenges her to pursue her dreams even as his seems hopeless. The Trouble with Jasmine is a coming-of-age story and sweet romance. Jasmine’s mother, Jo, appealed to me, possibly because her age was closer to my own.
The Trouble with Jasmine is suitable for pre-teens and up, and it earns four stars. Recommended. Disclaimer: I was given an e-copy of this book by the author in exchange for my honest opinion, which I have given.