The moment Jessica lays eyes on the wild black-and-white paint filly, she knows it was meant to be Jessica's life at Wild Hawk Ranch is happy, if a bit quiet. But everything changes when her father and brother drive the latest herd of wild young quarter horses into the pen at the family ranch. There, she spots the most beautiful black-and-while paint filly she's ever seen. She just knows . . . this is the year, and that is the horse. Her moment has come-she'll finally get to join her father and brother in the family business of breaking wild horses, if only she can convince her father she is old enough. But after a difficult turn, the family has no option but to keep the ranch afloat by turning it into a dude ranch for vacationing city folk. At first, Jess is thrilled by the idea. It will be fun to have new people around-and maybe the extra work will convince her father to give her Storm Chaser, the beautiful paint. But things get complicated when the guests begin arriving. Will Jess be able to salvage her old, happy life and save Storm Chaser from an uncertain future?
"Platt draws readers into life on the ranch and shares her knowledge and love of horses. The story unfolds at a smooth pace, introducing new characters and situations in a timely manner. The writing flows naturally with succinct descriptions and a light, yet exciting mood that is created from the beginning. Information on horse breeds and training ring true, and an author's note provides further d
School Library Journal
"[Readers] who adore horse stories-fans of Terri Farley's books as well as those who prefer the individuality of Pam Muñoz Ryan's Paint the Wind (2007)-will find plenty to like here."
