In the novella RODEO RIDERS, barrel racer Jordan Shore is a competent lady who had an accident while competing and is returning to the rodeo. The close-knit environment means she knows all the other RODEO RIDERS. She's determined to make a good showing with her Quarter Horse, but her anxiety surfaces when she meets Cougar Lighthorse unloading several Brahma bulls. One of these bulls injured her last time out. While it wasn't Cougar's fault, he still feels bad.

In past years, Cougar grew up working on the Shore family's ranch, and they had to keep a distance, though Jordan privately admired the tall, Native wrangler. Now they have no connection, except as friends. Can something good come of the accident? Is Jordan right to think she can still compete? Maybe it's time to find out at this challenging event.

One unusual factor is that the bull, Rampage, is treated as just as much a character as anyone. This is well done and gives us a healthy respect for the powerful creature. I like the description of Jordan's compact living quarters in the horsebox, and because it's that kind of earthy story, this isn't the only place where the adults get it on. They've both been seriously injured and recovered, but part of the body's journey back to wholeness is finding a good sexual relationship with the right person. Watch out for lots of adult action and some strong language, used in this highly masculine environment.

Vonna Harper has written other stories set in the Southwest and she has a real feel for location and character. If you enjoy seeing behind the scenes of events, with a strong romance, RODEO RIDERS is for you.