I couldn't imagine the stories based in Parable, Montana getting any better but then I guess I underestimated Linda Lael Miller's talent for maintaining great momentum of a story line. Never again. As a long time Miller fan I eagerly await the arrival of her newest books which maintain a place of honor on my bookshelves. These are not dust collectors. All her books are read and reread like revisiting old friends. And BIG SKY RIVER not only treats readers to a wonderful, rich and hope filled tale but incorporates so many of those folks we've already met in the previous stories set in this wonderful small town.

Tara Kendall a sophisticated New York executive is transplanted in Parable to recuperate and regroup after a heart breaking divorce. Strangely the thing she misses isn't her unsatisfying relationship with her ex-husband; no she sorely misses her two teenage twin stepdaughters who Tara had raised since they were toddlers but were unceremoniously wrenched from her arms with the divorce decree.

Sheriff Boone Taylor has made one colossal mistake in his life. He shut down so totally after the death of his young wife he wouldn't find a way out of the darkness -- he could barely cope unsure of whether he wants to live without her. The pain is so sharp drinking seems to dull it albeit for the short haul. But that isn't his big mistake, he gives his two young sons to his sister Mollie believing at the time Fletcher and Griffin would be better off as part of a whole family.

Things happen for a reason and Boone's sons are coming to Parable. In their mind it is temporary but for Boone it is his chance to get his boys back home and start to really mend. To go forward in life often means making peace with the past and opening your mind and heart to new possibilities. For Boone that's what Tara represents.

For Tara, whose heart keeps getting broken while she searches for the love, security and children a marriage should certainly provide, her future seems set on living on her chicken ranch surrounded by good friends and neighbors. Her first impression of Boone isn't necessarily a good one but spending time with the sheriff and his sons is providing a good look into the man. Here is a gruff man with a big heart who adores those boys. There is no mistaking the attraction between Tara and Boone so the only question is if they were willing to take a chance on love.

BIG SKY RIVER is a lovely heartwarming love story -- Miller at her very best. It definitely stands on its own merit but the entire series is definitely worth the price of admission. And the best part is there is at least one more installment on its way.