They say you shouldn't judge a book by its cover. PURSUED BY THE RICH RANCHER should not be judged by its title. Sure it's a cute attention catching one but it minimizes the importance of the story Catherine Mann is telling in this book that is part of the Diamonds in the Rough trilogy. It is readily apparent that Mann did her research before penning this story which heartwarmingly illustrates the importance of tenacity when it comes to parenting kids with special needs. Readers will appreciate the fact that Mann does not gloss over the stumbling blocks. But equally enjoyable is envisioning the possibilities.

PURSUED BY THE RICH RANCHER centers on the McNair cousins whose life is secure because of their grandmother. These young people were not going to wind up as a bunch of spoiled undisciplined trust babies -- not if Mariah McNair had something to do about it. Needless to say ranching is in their blood but so is artistry. The family is carefully with great thought dividing up the holdings in ways that suit the individual member. The Hidden Gem ranch is Alex's home where he sees his future. He doesn't really have any interest in the Diamonds In The Rough jewelry design entity of the McNair empire.

Alex's cousin Stone had been the first of three grandchildren to be put to a test by grandma. Stone put his imprint on the establishment of the HorsePower foundation program for children with special needs. Grandma Mariah felt that it was now time to put Alex to the test.

The three McNair adults weren't all that interested in the wealth that their grandmother controlled. It was the love and respect they all had for this woman who meant the world to them. In short she knew they would do her bidding just because they loved her. And her little test was really meant to get them on a good steady path to a full, happy, secure future. Family was the most important thing to them all.

Parenting is a talent and in PURSUED BY THE RICH RANCHER one of the first things you notice is that there are lots of children who are lacking that important person who helps shape who they become. And then we are also introduced to parents that get it. When you have a child your life drastically changes. They become your first responsibility -- or at least should.

For Nina having an autistic child -- Cody-- meant facing many challenges. Nina thought she would have the support of a loving husband and family. But Nina's husband was a trust fund baby in many ways and couldn't face the day to day issues of his special needs child. So when they separated Cody was Nina's responsibility -- one she faced with strength, love and determination to make Cody as independent as feasible. That's why she applied for the week at HorsePower. Cody seemed to love animals and what could better than spending a week at a ranch.

As it turns out it isn't just Cody that can benefit from this week at a ranch. Nina is also enjoying some time for herself -- a luxury that just doesn't exist in her real world.

Of course Catherine Mann steers us to the inevitable love interest in PURSUED BY THE RICH RANCHER but this book will capture your attention along with your heart. I only wish we could have had more time to spend with other kids at this remarkable camp. There is going to be one more story in this trilogy. Spending more time at the Hidden Gem is something I am looking forward to.