Lost in Prosperity

by Judy Hannigan

She has everything she’s longed for…

Raised by the proprietress of an elegant gaming salon and a former gunman, beautiful and spirited heiress, Sam Hilliard Stone, owns a gambling parlor in Prosperity, Wyoming Territory. Defying social convention, she also has a partnership in the Trinity Ranch, where she openly lives “in sin” with Jackson Knight, the man of her dreams.

After Sam loses her memory in a suspicious stagecoach accident, she’s drawn to Jackson’s beguiling kisses almost as much as she is to his tender compassion. But because she’s a woman who needs to understand why she feels things, she questions whether it’s true love or seductive desire swaying her senses.

He could lose her love…

Handsome and enigmatic Jackson Knight loves Sam with all his heart. But when she loses her memories of him and their shared passion, he fears he’ll lose the only woman he could ever love. Compounding his fear is the discovery an unknown enemy is trying to kill Sam.

Banding with family and friends, Jackson will do anything to keep Sam in his arms and safe from a deranged villain’s obsession.

Together, the power of their love could fulfill the promise of the future…

As Sam and Jackson struggle to pick up the pieces of their lives and uncover the reasons why events from their pasts are converging to destroy their chance of attaining love and happiness, they learn the past isn’t nearly as important as the future they build together.

Lost in Prosperity blends romance with suspenseful mystery to tell the compelling story of a woman who longs to trust her heart to a man she can’t remember and a man who refuses to lose the love of the woman who completes him.

388 pages, Paperback

Published August 28, 2024

About the author

Book 2, "Everything in Prosperity," winner of Gold Award for fiction from Literary Titan.

Even before reading Owen Wister’s, The Virginian: A Horseman of the Plains, in tenth grade, Judy Hannigan loved historical westerns.

In the Old West, where a good man and a good woman can prevail—together—the heroes and heroines in Judy’s romance adventure novels persevere to find enduring love. They do what’s right, instead of what they’re told—and justice triumphs. And her supporting characters demonstrate blood isn’t the primary factor that binds people to one another.

Raised in Southwest Michigan’s “fruit belt” country near the shores of Lake Michigan, she earned a BA in Secondary Education (English and American History) and an MA in Reading at the Secondary Level from Western Michigan University.

She taught high school for more than six years before deciding technical editing was a better fit. Presently, she writes full-time and resides in Southern Maryland with her husband and the best neighbors in the world.

Reviews

[Lily Edgerton · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you so much to Judy for sending me a copy of your book! Go check it out - along with the rest of the Prosperity series! 🐎

In Prosperity, Wyoming Sam Hillard Stone has it all—a successful gambling parlor and the love of her life, Jackson Knight. One fateful night, however, her life turns upside down when she falls victim to a mysterious stagecoach accident and loses her memories. Sam is forced to rebuild her perfect life, regain her memories, and uncover the truth: was the event truly an accident, or something far more sinister?

Lost in Prosperity masterfully blends romance, suspense, and a deep sense of found family. The dynamic between Jackson and Sam is beautiful. Even as Sam struggles with memory loss, their love for each other remains strong and unwavering.

Hannigan also does a lovely job of showing the town’s close-knit relationships. The whole story is written with omniscient third person narration, so we occasionally get to hear the thoughts of other characters. While it’s nice to discover the intricacies of the town alongside Sam, having this unique insight into others’ minds helps us get to know the community on a deeper level.

In addition to the romance, a chilling mystery subplot adds just the right amount of tension. Amidst the happiness, there’s a nagging feeling that makes you wonder if Sam will survive. I absolutely loved this book and highly recomend the cowboy-filled, thrilling, heartwarming story.

[Denise Taylor · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed this story. I really like the chemistry that was between Sam and Jackson. The idea that a love can be so strong it can over come amnesia is a wonderful idea. It was interesting that you didn’t really know who was responsible until the end - I was trying to puzzle it out. New threats kept popping up and kept me guessing. It was a well written story with well developed characters. I liked the way it ended. I would read another Prosperity story.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Jennah · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a fun read with an interesting storyline that took me on some twists and turns I didn't expect. The heroine is suffering from amnesia after an odd coach accident. Her memory is gone, but her feelings and general demeanor remain unchanged. But as she learns the details of the life she supposedly leads, she has to learn who to trust in the "family" she seems to have made - and who might be in it just for themselves.

This is a great read for those that a stagecoach romance would appeal to. It is pretty spicy, and the spicy moments happen often, but they aren't egregious.The author uses lots of dialogue, but also 3rd person omniscient narration - though the narrator seems to have access to some minds and hearts more than others.

I will admit I got lost between characters often. This is the first in a series, so I assume and hope that some of these characters we may see more from in subsequent stories. There were also a good handful of things that felt anachronistic - mostly, the unquestionably accepting and liberal attitude of almost everyone, additionally some phrases and concepts (conservationship stood out to me, for example). The whole "witch" thing also never quite fit or worked for me. This story could have been written with very minor changes to take place in a modern (which isn't necessarily a bad thing!).

Overall, I am excited to see where the next book in this series takes us and I hope to follow some of the side characters we didn't get to see too much of in this book. The storyline is more inventive than it at first seems - in the best way! And things are buttoned up neatly.

[Nicholas Westerfer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Judy Hannigan has created an absolute gem with Lost in Prosperity. From the very first page, the writing pulls you in, immersing you in the rugged charm of the Old West while capturing the heart and soul of its characters. The vivid descriptions of the landscape and the bustling town of Prosperity paint a picture of a world that feels both vast and intimate.

The characters are what truly make this story stand out. Sam is a strong yet vulnerable firecracker who is relatable and endearing. I can’t help but root for her. Sam and Jackson’s chemistry is palpable, and their romance was hot and heavy.

“I’m awake—and up—but it appears you’re the one doing the loving, darlin’.”

Jackson had me swooning.

Hannigan’s dialogue is sharp, laced with heart, and the pacing of the novel is perfect—keeping you hooked without ever feeling rushed. This is a book that deftly balances emotional depth, historical detail, and the sweeping romance that makes Westerns so irresistible. Lost in Prosperity is a beautifully written, heartfelt story that fans of historical romance won’t want to miss!

[Rick Molitor · Rating 4 out of 5]

Western romance

This is a good read. It is heavy on character and the development of those characters. With people out to get her, Sam is involved in a stagecoach disaster that causes amnesia. Jackson, her live-in boyfriend,tries to protect with the help of her close friends and family. Will they figure out who is after Sam. Will Sam and Jackson finally agree to get married. This is an enjoyable read.

[Janalyn, the blind reviewer]

Lost In Prosperity, is the first book in The Prosperity series by Judy Hannigan, when the book 1st starts, Sam and Jackson are coming back from Laramie after selling one of her prize bulls, Hercules. they ride on the coach in silence and opposite corners because Sam is in her contemplation mood and right when it’s over she goes to get up to sit by Jackson when the coach gets in a wreck and goes over a cliff. Thankfully, Sam and Jackson were thrown from the coach, but unfortunately, Sam doesn’t know who she is. Once an independent woman,, fierce competitor, good friend, great sister, business owner, six gun carrier but most important to Jackson, she was his partner in life. now she is a shell of her former self, and although she knows innately to trust Jackson and the others on the ranch, she is fearful, second-guessing, and not the woman they knew and to make matters worse. They think the accident was no accident at all. some things they tell her, but some she remembers on her own. The one thing she does believe is that she is putting her loved ones in danger, but are they targeting her or could someone else be responsible. I really really enjoyed this historical novel. I love the way Jackson was with Sam, but there was another romance starting that I thought was really rushed, with no buildup to them being together. I didn’t like that part, but thankfully, most of it was about Sam and Jackson. I also rolled my eyes at the fact everyone was a great shooter a great horse person well except for Alexia, but I let that slide because this book is really really good. There’s so much to the story and I cannot wait to read the next book. it ticks all the boxes, great romance, good characters, well written, and swoon worthy. #BooksSprout, #TheProsperitySeries, #JudyHannigan,#LostInProsperity,

[Mandy Jo · Rating 5 out of 5]

I want to start by saying this isn't my normal genre. After talking with the author, I decided to check out her series. First, this book is fast paced, has a great cast of characters and at times is reminiscent of the OK Corral. Sam is a tough as a nails lady in 1875 Wyoming. 👢 I mean "lives in open sin with her man" was a good way to get me to read this! Sam looses her memory after a suspicious buggy accident. Sam and her man, Jackson, along with their entire "found family" investigate. A wild read, with shootouts, saloons, romance and train rides! But if you need something a little DARKER, this book has that too.

[Anna · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this story. It wasn't your typical western romance as it's also suspenseful with some twists and turns you won't see coming. The characters are relatable and the story line is captivating. I kept trying to figure out who was behind Sam's accident and kept going back and forth between a couple of the characters. At some points I was telling Sam not to trust Jackson but then Jackson made you fall in love with him and I then started rooting for them. It was overall a fun read and I'm excited to dive into book 2. Well done!

[Mitzi Roth · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book has everything in it - romance, suspense, drama, mystery, and horror. I loved all the characters - the good, the bad, and the ugly. I can’t really pick my favorite - I liked each one differently. I love the story of Sam and Jackson’s relationship and how important their family and friends are to them. Most importantly how their friends become like family. Very well written and extremely entertaining. I loved this book and can’t wait for the next release.

[Jen Lewis · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved Sam and Jackson! Not even amnesia could make Sam completely forget her feelings for Jackson. I loved Sam's strong will and determination to do things on her own terms.

[Mandys_Book_Nook3 · Rating 3 out of 5]

Thank you so much for my gifted copy of your book.

If you like cowboys, country, guns and love, this will be for you.

Life was perfect for Sam and Jackson, but when Sam falls out of the carriage, she hits her head and develops amnesia, not remembering anything. She doesn't know her whereabouts, age, location or who she loves. This is hard for her family and loved ones to phathom.

Over the course of this story you will learn the culprit, it wasn't an accident and you'll go on the journey with Sam to learn why this happened and how she tries to overcome this event.

This story has tons of characters which you'll fall in love with.

[Bridget · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 Stars for Lost in Prosperity by Judy Hannigan.

Historical romance or westerns are not the genre I typically read, but when my friend and mentor told me her first book was published, I pushed this right to the top of my "To Read" list.

The novel starts with a horrific accident: a stagecoach crashing down a ravine, and Jackson yanking Sam to safety. While she is safe, she has amnesia. Her lost memory is frustrating to her, because her body responds while her brain doesn't remember. Peppered with memories that she tries to understand, Sam has to re-learn who her family and friends are, and who is not to be trusted.

Per the intro of the book: "As Sam and Jackson struggle to pick up the pieces of their lives and uncover the reasons why events from their pasts are converging to destroy their chance of attaining love and happiness, they learn the past isn’t nearly as important as the future they build together." I've been thinking about Sam and Jackson's relationship, and I wondered why they just didn't give up sometimes, as it just seemed so hard, and at times, they really didn't seem to "be destined" to be together.... except for a past that Sam couldn't remember connecting them. It really felt like a struggle, but that actually made the story more interesting than just a tyipcal love story.

There are a lot of characters, a lot with minor roles, and sometimes that got confusing for me to remember why they may be important to the story. I do feel I need to mention a trigger warning for sexual abuse/rape, but this content is important to the backstory.

As I said, this is not what I typically read, but I am interested to see how these characters interact and grow in future novels.

[MinsBookNook · Rating 4 out of 5]

While this book may not be for everyone, I thoroughly enjoyed it and looking forward to reading the rest of the Prosperity series.

You are thrown straight into the story with the suspicious stagecoach accident and it just continues from there.

I had a moment of thinking the book wasn't overly suspenseful, but it was because there was so much going on that you didn't have a chance to fully process every little aspect. I was so invested that I couldn't wait to find out what was going to happen, so not a lot of guessing/predicting on my part, I was just along for the ride. Also when I thought I had one bit figured out more connections were thrown at you.

The chemistry between Sam and Jackson was so good, even with the memory loss you knew they had a strong connection and would hopefully find their way back to each other. I wouldn't say its a spicy romance but for a Western Historical Romance it did have some hot and heavy moments.

If you like strong character development, this book is for you.

Thank you so much to Judy for gifting this book to me, it is an absolute gem.

Tropes:
❤️Western Historical Romance
❤️Mystery/Suspense
❤️Trust Her Heart
❤️Found Family
❤️Lives in "Sin"
❤️Stalker
❤️ Defied Social Norms
❤️ Memory Loss

[Literary Reviewer · Rating 4 out of 5]

Judy Hannigan’s Lost in Prosperity is a gripping tale that masterfully blends romance, suspense, and the rugged charm of the Wyoming Territory. The story begins with a harrowing stagecoach crash that leaves Sam Hillard Stone—a fiercely independent woman—struggling to piece together her shattered memory. A mysterious, strikingly handsome stranger rescues her, but her confusion only deepens when he kisses her with an intimacy she cannot place. Surrounded by friends and family, Sam discovers she is a wealthy saloon owner with a reputation as sharp as her quick draw. Yet, even as fragments of her identity resurface, trust becomes a precarious commodity—especially when the face in the mirror feels like that of a stranger. Jackson, the enigmatic hero, is heartbroken. The woman he loves no longer recognizes him or the life they shared. Her condition worsens with each passing day, and his grief is compounded by the realization that the crash may have been no accident. Determined to protect Sam and uncover the truth, Jackson vows to bring those responsible to justice, even as the stakes rise and secrets surface.

Hannigan quickly swept me into a narrative that balances lighthearted moments with gripping drama. The story alternates seamlessly between tender, blush-worthy interactions and intense, suspenseful twists. While there were occasional moments where I felt the pacing slowed somewhat, these lulls were minor compared to the overall momentum of the plot. The diverse and vividly rendered cast of characters adds depth and richness to the story. Their passions, conflicts, and heartbreaks are palpable, creating a world that feels both authentic and emotionally resonant.

For me, the most compelling aspect of Lost in Prosperity was its exploration of family—how it is built, nurtured, and often defined by bonds far deeper than blood. This heartwarming and thrilling tale is packed with unexpected turns, keeping readers guessing until the final pages.

Lost in Prosperity, by Judy Hannigan, is a captivating Western romance that weaves together themes of love, resilience, and the enduring bonds of a chosen family. If you enjoy stories that combine emotional depth with thrilling intrigue, this book is a must-read. I eagerly anticipate the next chapter in this exciting series!

[Caroline Conroy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lost in Prosperity by Judy Hannigan is nothing short of a masterpiece in the historic Western and romance genres. From the moment you crack open the cover, you’re immersed in a robust, multifaceted love story. This book doesn't just tell a story; it envelops you in a world of courage and powerful characters who feel as real as the Wyoming Territory they inhabit.
The setting is meticulously crafted, from the ranch to the parlor. The landscapes are more than mere backdrops; they are living, breathing entities that shape both the narrative and the characters’ destinies. Judy has a remarkable talent for weaving history and fiction into a seamless tapestry, painting a vivid picture with historical accuracy and rich detail.
The characters are where this book truly shines. Sam is a captivating protagonist, distinct and intriguing. Her hidden past unfolds with such depth that I found myself eager to learn more about her (can't wait for Book 2!). Her interactions with Jackson are dynamic and their relationship brims with passion and intensity. I actually blushed during their romantic encounters, as if I were right there in the room with them!
The plot is a masterclass in anticipation and intrigue. I was constantly wanting to turn the page for more. Whether you were being built up for a dramatic showdown or falling deep into a tender moment between two lovers, every scene is crafted with precision. Judy knows how to balance action with emotional depth, creating a story that is both thrilling and moving.
It’s clear that Lost in Prosperity has all the ingredients for a phenomenal film adaptation. Judy's detailed writing brings the story to life with such vividness that it feels like you're watching it unfold on the big screen.
If you haven’t read it yet, do yourself a favor and grab a copy now. And Hollywood, take note: this book could easily be adapted into the next blockbuster!

[Kaitlyn Marquart · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lost in Prosperity captivated me from the very first page. With a perfect mix of romance and suspenseful mystery, it tells the story of a woman fighting to reclaim not only her memories but also her future with the man who loves her unconditionally.
The main character, Sam—a strong woman with a man’s name and a seemingly perfect life—faces the heartbreaking aftermath of an accident that robs her of her past. What unfolds is a deeply emotional journey of rediscovery, trust, and resilience. One of the most powerful aspects of this story is how it explores the fragile beauty of memory. Sam can recall the painful trauma of her youth but not the sweetness of her first kiss with the man she’s destined to be with—and that contrast is haunting.
Judy Hannigan’s writing is both tender and insightful. Lines like “The trick is not allowing the lows to overshadow the highs” and “Odd how memories were both a comfort and a torture” stayed with me long after I turned the final page. I even jotted in my notes: Don’t take memories for granted. Don’t beat yourself up when a memory you had forgotten visits for a time. Embrace them when they come, let them settle in your heart, and move forward with joy and gratitude.
This book moved me so deeply, I found myself sneaking in reading time in the early morning hours before work—something I never do—because I couldn’t wait to get back to the story. Lost in Prosperity is the kind of book you feel, not just read. I highly recommend it to anyone who loves emotionally layered storytelling with characters who will stay with you long after the final chapter.

[Christine Whitehead · Rating 5 out of 5]

I began reading Judy Hannigan’s Lost in Prosperity with some trepidation. It is outside of my usual reading genre as I ordinarily read Mainstream Women’s Fiction and World War II historical women’s fiction with a mystery thrown in here and there. I feared I could not give it a real shot because it is not a book I “reach” for. However, I was wrong on this one! I completely adored the characters and was enchanted by the main character Sam – whose real name is Sam but Samantha - and her ability to stand up for herself despite it not being fashionable in 1875, Wyoming territory. She is nobody’s fool and I loved her strong spirit and frontier skills. The book mixes intrigue, romance, a cowboy energy and mystery. It was so fun with good and evil competing for dominance. It is complicated by the fact that Sam has lost her memory after a bad accident (not a spoiler as it happens in the first few pages) and a man who is in love with her wonders if she will even remember him. I won’t spoil the fun for you but you really will feel the dusty atmosphere of the Town of Prosperity and I became very invested quickly in the outcome. Cowboys, villains, damsels in distress, heroes, horses, romance! What more could you ask for? A really fun and engaging read that you won’t put down once started. Highly recommend! Very satisfying read.

[Dena · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book was fun to read, with an interesting premise. It is set in the frontier west and is about a proprietress dealing with her amnesia. I enjoyed the plot and found it engaging. The reasons for only three stars are down to preference in storytelling methods. First, I felt there were many point-of-view changes in scenes that were sudden, without line breaks or similar, which I found hard to follow. Secondly, while I do like strong lead characters, as well as strong female characters, most of the female characters in this story fell under the "strong, independent type" but without much differentiation in personality which made it less interesting than it could have been.

If you like fun reads set in the Old West, I do recommend this book as being fun and interesting.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Kristen · Rating 4 out of 5]

I’m not an avid historical fiction/romance reader, but I enjoyed following the story of Sam, a strong-willed, stubborn woman, as she navigates through recovering from a stagecoach accident and rediscovering her love for Jackson. The story has many twists and turns that kept me on my toes, but I did have a bit of trouble following some characters and the lapse of time between events.

The main characters were well developed, and the challenges that Sam experienced (although fictitious) may be relevant to many female readers (i.e., gender inequality/expectations), and I’m excited to read the next book in this series!

[Arianna Scott · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lost in Prosperity is a beautifully written story that blends heartfelt emotion, small town charm, and real human struggles. Judy Hannigan does a fantastic job crafting relatable characters and weaving a plot that’s both gripping and grounded in deep themes of healing, family, and rediscovery.

From the very first chapter, I was drawn into the world of Prosperity. The pacing is smooth, the dialogue feels authentic, and every twist feels earned. Whether you're into romance, drama, or stories of second chances, this book delivers with warmth and sincerity.

[Kyle Conroy · Rating 5 out of 5]

The level of details the author worked into the locations and overall era is impressive. And the captivating characters moved flawless against this epic backdrop. This is not my usual genre of books, but I really found it to be a fast, fun read.

[April Pickering · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ms. Hannigan brings the era and characters to life with gripping romance and surprising twists and turns. A great read! I can't wait for the sequel coming out later this year.