Silverleaf Rapids

Ransom Canyon #0

by Jodi Thomas

The captivating prequel to Ransom Canyon, now a Netflix series starring Minka Kelly and Josh Duhamel!

Virgin River meets Yellowstone against the breathtaking, rugged backdrop of West Texas in this compelling, emotional origin story behind New York Times bestselling author Jodi Thomas’s Ransom Canyon saga—filled with love, challenges, and a timeless passion for the land and its people.

Deep in the heart of Texas, five generations of Kirklands built the sprawling Double K Ranch, battling fire and frost, outlaws and disease. It’s said the dirt flows through their veins as sure as Silverleaf Rapids flows through Ransom Canyon. But the canyon also had a way of becoming part of just about anyone who landed there . . .

19-year-old Staten Kirkland was studying at Texas Tech when he got the news that the grandfather who raised him, J.R. Kirkland, was fighting for his life. Now Staten would have to leave college behind, not to mention the girl he loved. And he’d have to grow up overnight. More than that, he’d have to become a boss—the boss—running thousands of acres of ranch. He’d always hated change. But change was barreling toward him . . .

Rootless and stuck in the dull routine that was her life, college professor Charlotte Lane escaped into fiction. But now she was restless for a change—in the form of being the new high school teacher at the small town bordering Ransom Canyon. Still, at this point in her life, what if she couldn’t change—or even remember how? Maybe she’d find others to show her the way . . .

The youngest of six, Peggy Warner came last in every way, not even worth sending to college. Now 27, she’s never left home and lives in service to her aging parents and her married siblings’ growing families. But she still has dreams—and under the big sky overlooking Ransom Canyon they may come true . . .

Genres: Romance, Audiobook, Contemporary, Fiction, Contemporary Romance, Western Romance, Westerns

273 pages, Kindle Edition

First published May 27, 2025

About the author

I'm a New York Times and USA Today Best Selling author, wife, mother, in-law, grandmother, sister, friend, and owner of one fat cat.

Reviews

[♥Milica♥ · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a big improvement on the first prequel (and no wonder, they came out 10 years apart), the writing was a lot better and the characters more fleshed out, Thomas made me care for them all.

Though we get four PoVs, only three of them find love, which was a bit disappointing since Quinn was my favourite and I wanted her and Staten to be together. It's not too late though, if the blurb for book one is anything to go by.

I'm curious if the rest of the series will be multi-PoV too, or just this prequel and the first book. I like the idea of it (so far), but I'd also like to have one main couple to focus on too.

I'm aiming to read about 2-3 of these a month, so I should be done by the end of the year, and then I can go watch the show, yayyy. I hope they didn't change too many things.

[theliterateleprechaun · Rating 4 out of 5]

The publisher markets this prequel to the Texas set Ransom Canyon series as Virgin River meets Yellowstone.

I chose this book on the cover alone; I’d never read a Jodi Thomas book and haven’t watched Virgin River nor Yellowstone.

I enjoyed this family saga highlighting love for family and the land. Thomas easily transported me to the Double K Ranch where Staten Kirkland showed me the challenges and emotional struggles of giving up a dream for the sake of a legacy, and the value of welcoming change. Dr. Charlotte W. Lane showed me the danger of burying myself in work and forgetting to live, and encouraged me to embrace change regardless of age or ease. Peggy May Warner showed me that despite obligations sidelining a dream, it’s still possible to achieve them.

I can see why this is such a well-loved saga and just know that the Netflix show will be welcomed and successful.

I was gifted this copy by Kensington Publishing and NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.

[Maria · Rating 4 out of 5]

I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book, given to me by Kensington Publishing via Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
3.5 stars.
A story with three couples with different ages, “Silverleaf Rapids”, by Jodi Thomas, combines new and not so new romantic beginnings with the love for the land in Ransom County, Texas.
I liked how these characters show strength, resilience, kindness; and how adversity, loneliness, abuse are overcome with hope, hard work and unexpected beginnings.
We watch Staten grow into a man. I didn’t like Amalah that much, she seemed a bit spoiled; this romantic couple was frustrating. I felt Quinn was a much stronger and steadier person.
Peggy and Duke are a cute couple and their romance is full of magical (even if sometimes a bit contrived) moments. Peggy is in urgent need of love.
I liked how Charlotte and Wade bonded over highschool teaching, football coaching and the search for a cave and an old legend.
An enjoyable read.

[Ptiteaurel · Rating 4 out of 5]

Staten Kirkland est notre héros de 20 ans. Il va devoir quitter ses cours à la fac pour revenir au ranch de Ransom Canyon pour prendre la place de son grand Père JR ( James Ray) qui a eu une attaque. On le sent tiraillé car il ne se sent pas à la hauteur et cette distance avec sa petite amie de longue date, Amalah, pourrait avoir de lourdes conséquences. On va le voir osciller entre deux eaux et tenter de donner le meilleur de lui même. Quinn, la meilleure amie d'Ama, sera aussi là pour fuir ses fantômes et aider notre héros à rétablir le lien avec sa copine.

Charlotte Cane est la nouvelle professeur de la ville et elle va devoir aussi faire ses preuves . Cette passionnée de littérature va devoir mettre ses ambitions de côté et accepter de laisser son passé derrnière elle. Elle sera une aide précieuse pour Staten et elle le poussera à aller plus loin. Elle va rencontrer un professeur d'histoire, Wade Parsons, qui cherche à dénouer le mystère sur les ancêtres de Staten.

J'ai aussi été touchée par Peggy Warner, une jeune femme de 27 ans, qui ne vit que pour sa famille et à qui on ne demande pas comment elle va. Elle doit sans cesse aider les autres mais personne n'essaie de savoir quels sont ses rêves. Elle va faire la rencontre de Duke Evans et au début, on se demande si ce n'est pas trop beau pour être vrai.

Bref, une romance dans un ranch avec une petite ville pour décor et le tour est joué. L'autrice a su me donner envie de découvrir son univers mais aussi de me lancer dans la série pour voir si je vais retrouver ce que j'ai ressenti ici.

[Jess (GetbookedwithJessica) · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 stars

Silverleaf Rapids is a heartfelt and grounded start to the Ransom Canyon series. This story takes the readers to Ransom County and the lives of a multitude of characters we get to meet. I was super excited to read this novel because I’m absolutely obsessed with the series on Netflix.

Since this is my first novel by this author, I was hoping for a storyline that grabbed my attention, and for me this fell a tad short from what I was hoping for.

Provided a bit of history of the land, but also had a tad bit of romance mixed in and then some suspense along the way as well. It was a nice mix to set the scene for what’s to come in this series.

Whether you're new to the Ransom Canyon world or already a fan, this prequel is a solid intro. Definitely helps give you a broader picture and although I’ve already watched the Netflix series, I would definitely want to go back and read this series to be immersed with all the characters again.

[Caitlin · Rating 4 out of 5]

For coming out this month, this reads like an old school paperback novel. The nostalgia vibe was kind of fun to enjoy.

I haven't read any of the books in the Ransom Canyon series yet, and so I am curious to see what the importance of these three couples will be in the coming series books, if any.

I was intrigued and pulled in by the "Virgin River meets Yellowstone" hook as I love the VR book series and the show Yellowstone became an obsession of mine. This book directly did not fit that comparison. There wasn't much I could see in relation to Yellowstone minus the story taking place on a ranch with family history. That feels to vague for a direct tie. I'm hoping the other books give a grittier vibe that Yellowstone is known for.

[Christie Mack · Rating 5 out of 5]

I didn’t expect to receive an ARC of Silverleaf Rapids, but the moment I started, I couldn’t put it down. I fell hard for this series—read all the books in just a few days—and ever since the Netflix adaptation dropped last week, I’ve been rewatching it on repeat. So the chance to read a prequel that takes us back to the beginning, to how Staten inherited the ranch before the first book even begins? Oh, I was all in.

Jodi Thomas delivers exactly what fans crave: emotional depth, rugged charm, and the kind of storytelling that wraps around you like a warm blanket. Getting this glimpse into Staten’s past was like unearthing buried treasure—rich in character, grounded in family legacy, and filled with moments that make you smile, tear up, and remember why you fell in love with this world in the first place.

Whether you’re already a fan or just discovering the series, Silverleaf Rapids is a beautiful, heartfelt addition that makes the whole story even more special.

[No Apology Book Reviews · Rating 2 out of 5]

Thanks to Jodi Thomas, RBMedia, and NetGalley for allowing me to listen to a free eaudio ARC in exchange for an honest review.

DNF 66%. I've been getting more and more bored since about 40%. Now I'm only half listening and just really want to get back to Laurie King's Russell and Sherlock series. Time to call it.

I read the entirety of the Ransom Canyon series back when they were being newly released; it coincided with a change in my reading tastes, so while at first I liked them, I grew to dislike them and Thomas's writing. One of my biggest peeves as a reader is head-hopping, and that's all Thomas has done for the last couple decades as in each book she follows several characters from the same geographical location. Drives me nuts.

I've also complained of purple prose in her writing in the past, and while I didn't notice much of that here, her stories have the feel of a children's fairytale, the characters very in touch with their emotions and hopes and dreams. Lots of thinking and little doing. That's all her characters do is hope and dream and wish for someday until it miraculously happens and they live happily ever after.

Those are the stakes here in Silverleaf Rapids--all the tension is simply the possibility that what the characters are hoping for won't happen. Staten hopes his grandpa will get better and Staten will be able to return to college and fix his relationship with his girlfriend. No apparent problems running the ranch, no apparent problems with his parents, not even all that bothered by blue balls--we're just holding on to hope and getting bored.

Charlotte hopes to find love and live a more meaningful life; she could have had trouble transitioning to the town, to the job, finding a decent man. She had to coach the football team without knowing the first thing about football, in Texas, and we never heard of a single conflict. At 66% everything's going pretty swimmingly for her, and it's BORING.

Peggy's hoping to have her own life, but her Cinderella bells are always ringing and she's too afraid to stand up for herself. No fights, no anger, no substance abuse. All the conflict is just sitting there, waiting to be played with, and the character just trudges by with her persistent meekness. It's 66% and she's just now starting to tentatively, quietly put her foot down. Too late, I've lost interest. (Plus, she was just weird--she randomly digs a 2-foot-deep grave, no small thing, and lies down in it for a while. No, she's not gothically inclined or suicidal; that would make her interesting, can't have that. And Duke just waltzes up (if he had a reason for being there, I missed it), sees her laying in her shallow grave, and thinks, "Aw shucks, that's cute." What?)

The thing I hate about this kind of storytelling--multiple A-plot storylines happening at once--is that none of them, or their characters, get the attention they deserve. Instead of one fully fleshed-out story, you get three or four half-assed ones. And in my opinion, that's not okay.

So why did I request this book if I knew I probably wouldn't like it? Ironically, hope. I was hoping to like it as much as I loved Thomas's earlier novels, the ones that focused on one storyline at a time. She used to be one of my auto-buys. I thought about attending Texas A&M just because she was the writer in residence, for shit's sake. Also, I noticed the ads for the Netflix show and wanted to be part of the conversation. I'm very curious how they pitched it--Bridgerton meets Yellowstone? *snorts* *notices blurb* Ah, Virgin River meets Yellowstone--that makes more sense.

So I still don't like what Jodi Thomas is writing these days. Noted. Congrats on the Netflix deal, though, Ms. Thomas.

[Tina Loves To Read · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a Cowboy Romance, and this is the first book in the Ransom Canyon series. I read this book by listening to the audiobook for this book, and I really enjoyed the audiobook. I really loved getting to know all the characters in this book, and there are a lot of characters. This book point of view changes from one character to a different character, and normally I do not love a book with a ton of different POV it worked in this book. I really enjoyed this book, and I think it is a great introduction to this new series. I received an ARC of this book. This review is my own honest opinion about the book like all my reviews are.

[April Brown · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 rounded down

This was my first Jodi Thomas book, and I feel like I would have enjoyed this book a bit more if I had already read some of the original books in the Ransom Canyon series. As a fan of Robin Carr and the Virgin River series, I was excited to start this series.

This book follows 3 separate story lines/ characters all in the same small Texas town, 19-year-old Staten Kirkland who takes over running his family's ranch, Dr. Charolette Lane who just left her job as a college professor to start over somewhere new as a high school English teacher, and Peggy Warner who is the youngest kid in a local family that is usually overlooked.

I enjoyed the story line for Staten and Charolette more than that of Peggy. I am not sure I have a concrete reason why, but I just did not feel a connection to Peggy's story, and it did not seem to be executed as well.

I also was not a fan of the love interest of Staten, Amallah. I did not feel like the author made an effort to really make you want to root for her, and I even found myself gravitating to Amallah and Staten's friend Quinn. After looking to where the first book in the Ransom Canyon series picks up, that made more sense to me.

I am excited to continue the series and see how their stories continue and to revisit Double K Ranch

I was gifted this copy by Kensington Publishing and NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.

[Adriann Frerichs · Rating 3 out of 5]

what a cute little story! very cowboy and romance and honestly the vibes were just immaculate. i’d say it was probably a solid 3.5! i have a confession.. i haven’t read or watched ransom canyon, but i really think if you’d have seen/ read it you would especially love this story. but even as someone with no knowledge of the story i still enjoyed it so much! i also will say this was my first Jodi Thomas book and i really enjoyed her writing style and i would love to read more of her works in the future.

i listened to the audiobook version of this book and i found the narration to be super smooth. she really brought the story and the characters to life. i enjoyed my time listening and would recommend to other listeners.

i would say that i recommend this book and am curious to see how other people rate it. especially people who have read and loved ransom canyon! i am so so so happy though that i got the chance to read and review this book for netgalley and RBmedia! thank you so much for the opportunity!

[Emily Scotto · Rating 4 out of 5]

Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️

Tropes:
🤠Small Town
🤠Cowboy/Rancher
🤠Opposites Attract
🤠Found Family
🤠Romantic Suspense

I enjoyed this book a lot! I loved Ranson Canyon, and when I saw a prequel, I knew I had to read it! The characters were very enjoyable. Wilkes and Angie had a special and unique relationship. It was so lovely to be back on this farm again. I also loved the book's suspense and finding out about Angie's past and the things she was running from. I am glad I could read this book and recommend it to any reader!

Thank you so much to Jodi Thomas and Hambright PR for letting me read and review this book!

[Addie Yoder · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was super nervous about where this prequel would go and who I would like and dislike in the story. I read Ransom Canyon first and then went back to Silverleaf Rapids. I was super hesitant about a lot of parts of it, but loved getting the new characters and getting some BTS of Staten. I didn't even need to be nervous because everything was much calmer than I expected. The stakes were low and the story was high. The world that Thomas has built here is robust and full of people that I want to know and this just gives us even more.

[Alexia | Books4Dreamz · Rating 3 out of 5]

Huge thanks to Hambright PR for the gifted ARC of Silverleaf Rapids, the prequel to the Ransom Canyon series.

Prequels aren’t usually my thing—I tend to prefer staying in the present of the stories I love. But I made an exception for this one because, honestly, I’ve been in serious Staten withdrawal since watching the Ransom Canyon series on Netflix.

It felt good to return to the Double K Ranch and reconnect with beloved characters like Staten, Quinn, and Amalah—while meeting new ones like Peggy and Charlotte. Going back in time added emotional depth and context to the world I already cared about. That said, I’m still firmly Team Quinn (sorry Amalah, your backstory didn’t win me over).

If you’re missing the Kirklands and can’t wait for the next season, this book offers a nostalgic way to revisit the canyon and learn how it all began.

[Kelly · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great prequel to this series. I loved all the characters . Ransom Canyon is a small town in Texas surrounded by ranches. This book covers three different intertwining story lines. I look forward to reading more in this series.

[Dani · Rating 4 out of 5]

I watched Ransom Canyon. This is the prequel. It was sweet.

[Chantal · Rating 2 out of 5]

Sadly this book wasn’t for me. There were a lot of story lines and eventually they all got jumbled and I couldn’t keep the stories and the characters apart. The story is written from a few different POVs and the characters eventually start to interact with each other, this makes the story more difficult to follow. Eventually I just couldn’t keep up with the book anymore and I was only half listening.
Maybe the book would be more enjoyable if you have read the other books in the series.
I listened to this book as an audiobook and I liked the production. The narrator was really great.

Thank you NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.

⭐️: 2
🌶: no spice

[Ashley · Rating 3 out of 5]

Definitely don’t read this as a stand alone. I actually think Winters Camp should be book 0 and this second.

I went in already have watched the show on Netflix, but hadn’t read the books yet. I followed along just fine, and it was good to see some backstory. But it was kind of a blah book. Not awful, not amazing. I read Winters Camp next and it was amazing! So, this author can produce some good books, this one just fell flat for me. Some of the story didn’t pan out the way it was set up. I expected Amalah to cheat on Staten at college from the way it was being set up. I am not disappointed she didn’t, it just didn’t flow. The whole book was wonky like that.

Oh, and I like the book romances better than the shows interpretation for all except Lauren and Lucas, their show story line seems better so far.

[Emily · Rating 2 out of 5]

The story follows a few different couples, with each chapter changing to a different POV. They do end up intertwining but it felt disjointed and forced. There were a few things I read that just didn’t sit well with me.

There was a story told in the book about a [possibly Native American?] woman who was literally traded. She was traded for a broken watch and in return she was to become the man’s wife. She even tried to run away. I was deeply horrified to read about her injustice and dehumanization. After reading this, I did a brief research on the author and I found that she does put effort into making fictional stories historically accurate. Even though she was trying to be historically accurate, it felt like she was romanticizing injustice and dehumanization.

I was unimpressed with a female character that decided to drop out of college because she all of a sudden decided she only wanted to be a wife. To each their own, but it just seemed forced. I also felt like Stat had more chemistry with a different female than the one that wanted to be his wife.


Overall, it felt sort of like a couple of novellas stitched together.

[Nicole · Rating 3 out of 5]

SilverLeaf Rapids by Jodi Thomas is the prequel to Ransom Canyon. The narrator Julia Gibson did a great job except for Dukes narration…he sounded like an old man which he wasn’t, so confusing. I didn’t see at all the comparison to Virgin River and Yellowstone in this book. You could loosely compare it to Yellowstone only because you are on a family ranch. There were three sets of characters, which was confusing because they switched back and forth. I feel like you lose the depth and connection to the characters worth so many storylines going on. Thank you to #NetGalley and #RB media for this Arc. This is my honest review.

[Sarah Jensen · Rating 4 out of 5]

Book Review: Ransom Canyon #0: Silverleaf Rapids by Jodi Thomas
Rating: ★★★★☆ (4/5)

Overview
Jodi Thomas’s Silverleaf Rapids, a prequel to her beloved Ransom Canyon series, is a tender yet compelling exploration of love, resilience, and the rugged beauty of Texas ranch life. Set against the sweeping backdrop of the American West, this novel serves as an origin story for the tight-knit community of Ransom Canyon, introducing readers to the origins of the land’s legacy and the people who shaped it. Blending romance, historical fiction, and a touch of frontier adventure, Thomas crafts a story that is both nostalgic and fresh, offering longtime fans and new readers alike a deeper understanding of the series’ roots.

Strengths
Rich, Evocative Setting
Thomas excels in bringing the Texas landscape to life with vivid, sensory prose. The sprawling ranches, dusty trails, and the titular Silverleaf Rapids are rendered with such detail that they become characters in their own right. The setting not only grounds the story but also enhances its emotional and thematic depth, reinforcing themes of perseverance and connection to the land.

Character-Driven Narrative
The novel’s greatest strength lies in its well-drawn, multi-dimensional characters. The protagonists—particularly the resilient rancher’s daughter and the enigmatic newcomer—are richly developed, with personal histories that feel authentic and compelling. Their chemistry unfolds naturally, avoiding the pitfalls of rushed romance, and their individual struggles (whether with family legacies or personal demons) add layers of emotional weight.

Seamless Blend of Romance and Historical Fiction
While romance is central to the plot, Thomas weaves in elements of historical fiction, touching on themes like land disputes, frontier justice, and the challenges of rural life in the late 19th century. This balance ensures the story appeals beyond the romance genre, offering substance alongside swoon-worthy moments.

Strong Sense of Community
True to the Ransom Canyon spirit, the novel emphasizes the importance of community and intergenerational bonds. Side characters—neighbors, elders, and even adversaries—are given enough depth to make the world feel lived-in and dynamic. This attention to secondary relationships enriches the main love story, making the eventual happily-ever-after feel earned.

Weaknesses
Pacing in the Middle Act
While the opening and closing sections are tightly paced, the middle of the novel occasionally meanders, with subplots that, while interesting, slightly dilute the central narrative momentum. A more focused progression could have heightened emotional impact.

Predictable Tropes
Fans of Western romance will recognize familiar tropes—the brooding stranger, the feisty heroine, the land-in-peril—which, while executed well, offer few surprises. A touch more subversion of expectations might have elevated the story further.

Limited Historical Depth
Though the setting is immersive, the historical context sometimes feels secondary to the romance. Readers seeking a deeper exploration of the era’s socio-political tensions may find the backdrop underutilized.

Thematic Contribution
Silverleaf Rapids is more than a love story; it’s a meditation on legacy and belonging. The novel asks what it means to build a home—not just physically, but emotionally—and how love and loyalty can transform both people and places. Thomas subtly critiques rigid societal expectations (particularly for women in the West) while celebrating the quiet strength of everyday heroes.

Conclusion
Jodi Thomas delivers a heartfelt, beautifully written addition to the Ransom Canyon universe with Silverleaf Rapids. While it occasionally leans on genre conventions, the novel’s emotional authenticity, lush setting, and endearing characters make it a standout. It’s a perfect read for those who crave romance with substance, history with heart, and a story that lingers like the golden light over the Texas plains.

Acknowledgments
Thank you to NetGalley and the author, Jodi Thomas, for providing a review copy. This book is a testament to Thomas’s skill in crafting stories that feel both timeless and intimately personal.

Final Verdict
★★★★☆ (4/5)—A must-read for fans of the series and a welcoming entry point for newcomers. Silverleaf Rapids proves that the best love stories are those rooted in place, memory, and the promise of home.

[Perrin Larton · Rating 4 out of 5]

I think I'm a little behind. I had no idea this book is a prequel to a television series already showing on Netflix. So...my review will be just on this book and not on any of the things that the overview of the series says or previous books written by this author in this series.

This is essentially 3 stories that are equally interesting.

Statin Kirkland comes home from college to take over the ranch since his grandfather had a health issue and can't work the ranch any longer. Lots of angst between Statin and Amalah, his love interest, since she's still in college and is getting way too comfortable without him. Statin takes the reins of the ranch and is becoming the 'boss'. Amalah finally comes to her senses and realizes what she and Statin have is worth more than college activities.

Peggy is the youngest of six children and now as an adult falls into the caregiver role. Everyone wants her to do something for them without realizing she has dreams herself. When doing a cemetery cleaning chore that has fallen to her, she meets the man of her dreams. Duke works for the Kirkland ranch, although he has a home and some land from his parents. They fall into each other since both never thought they would find their soul mate.

Charlotte gave up a college teaching position because she felt stagnant, to take up residence in Ransom Canyon and continue to teach at the high school level. She begins the same day as Wade who was formerly working for the military and is now also a teacher at the high school. They begin as a friendship. When they get the opportunity to search the Kirkland ranch for a cave that is mentioned in historical documents, the situation they find themselves in makes them realize they belong together.

Sometimes the book seemed to move right along, other times it felt a bit stagnant. I enjoyed it and as always, Ms. Thomas begins slowly then pulls it all together so the whole book fits together.

[Emily · Rating 3 out of 5]

I was gifted an eARC of this book by NetGalley. Thank you to Net Galley and the publishers for this book!

This is my first Jodi Thomas book that I've read, and my interest in this author started after I watched the Netflix adaptation of her series. I like a multi-POV story, but it seemed like there was one too many stories happening. I understand Charlotte and Wade's story (and enjoyed it) since it intermingled with Staten in both his personal growth with taking her course and Wade's interest in Staten's family history and the cave. Although Peggy and Duke's story was cute I didn't really see the point of it in this story. Duke working on the ranch was the strongest tie to Staten, and other than that they just seemed like a filler couple. I really enjoyed Staten's view in this book, and it helped me understand him as a person a lot better. Amala, on the other hand, was a very annoying character. I really disliked her, and every time she let Staten down or left without saying goodbye I disliked her a little more. I feel like Quinn and Staten made a lot more sense, and there seemed to be absolutely no substance between Amala and Staten aside from the childhood sweethearts aspect and him just saying that she was the most beautiful girl to him. She didn't support him when he needed it, didn't come to see him when he was injured, and put her sorority above him every time. She doesn't deserve him, and if Netflix follows the books of the series then I'm glad that Quinn and Staten seem like they're going to end up together and that I won't have to suffer through more of Amala. Quinn has done more for Staten than Amala, and they seem to be such a better match. I was also confused by her change of heart after he broke up with him since she clearly was pulling away and putting very little effort into their relationship. I'm planning on reading the rest of the series and hope that they delve more into what happened to Quinn at school.

[Anne · Rating 4 out of 5]

Silverleaf Rapids by Jodi Thomas is a romance, well, three, really, all taking place simultaneously. One, Staten and Amalah, had been happening since second grade, but was now hitting a rough spot. The others, one between two high school teachers, Charlotte and Wade, and the third, between two very shy people who kept out of the spotlight, was Peggy and Duke. Duke was a Cowboy at Staten’s ranch and Peggy was everyone’s go-to, and she hated it. The two latter unfolded slowly and were fun to watch, although I kept waiting for Wade to be a bad guy. Peggy and Duke are the perfect couple and it does one’s heart good to see two deserving people, not all that attractive, but good people, find one another. Charlotte and Wade were both in the their early forties, and Charlotte, for sure, had put any hope of love behind her.

Thomas always finds unlikely people to bring together and she does it seamlessly. Staten is only nineteen years old when his grandfather has a stroke and leaves the running of the ranch to him. Staten has to man-up and he does. His grandparents are there to help as are all the hands on the ranch, supporting him at every turn. He is proving himself to be worthy while facing the reality that while he wants to learn, he also is not cut out for school. This opens an apparent rift between he and Amalah that he misinterprets. Good story. Fun, enticing characters, well-written, which is Thomas’ forte. The plots are relatively simple, with just a little bit of possible death thrown in for good measure. Great read, comfortable. Looking forward to more of this Ransom Canyon series.

I was invited to read Silverleaf Rapids by Kensington Publishing. All thoughts and opinions are mine. #Netgalley #KensingtonPublishing #JodiThomas #SilverleafRapids

[Amanda Price (LifeWithAmandaP) · Rating 5 out of 5]

5/5⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
1/5🌶️

What to Expect:
🐎Small Town
🧡Western Romance
🐎Slow Burn
🧡Found Family
🐎Romantic Suspense
🧡Protective MMC
🐎First Love
🧡Multiple POV
🐎Multi-Storyline
🧡Prequel

I didn’t expect to fall so hard for Silverleaf Rapids, but the second I cracked it open, I was ALL COMMITTED!!! This heartfelt prequel drops us right at the beginning—before the events of the Ransom Canyon series (hello Josh Duhamel on NETFLIX!)—where we meet a 19-year-old Staten, suddenly forced to trade college dreams for running his family's massive Texas ranch after his grandfather suffers a stroke. His heartbreak over lost opportunities and the strain on his relationship with Amalah was such a punch to the gut!!! And while Staten is trying to find his footing, we also meet Charlotte, the new high school English teacher who’s looking for more from her life—and somehow ends up coaching football (wildride?). Then there’s Peggy, the overlooked youngest daughter who’s always put everyone else first… until Duke steps, and she learns to FINALLY put herself first.

What I loved most was how Jodi Thomas wove all three storylines together in such a smooth and seamless way (I did read reviews that many weren't fans of this, but I thoroughly enjoyed this!!) Each character’s journey felt important, grounded in that small-town Texas charm and quiet strength that defines the series. There’s heartache, hope, and healing all packed into these pages, and even though the romance is a slow burn, the emotional payoff was so worth it. Watching these characters grow—individually and together—made me want to reread the entire series and binge the Netflix adaptation all over again.

A HUGE thank you to Hambright PR, Netgalley, and Jodie Thomas for sending this one over!!

[Nere · Rating 5 out of 5]

First, I want to thank NetGalley and RBMedia for giving me this ALC to provide my honest opinion.

After watching Ransom Canyon on Netflix and falling in love with the setting and characters, I was so excited to read Silverleaf Rapids and it completely exceeded my expectations. Getting to read the prequel and see Stanten’s story as a young man added so much depth and heart to the world I already enjoyed on screen. Reading about his journey of self-growth and persistence was incredibly moving. Hearing stories of the family history was interesting as well.

One of the best parts was seeing the early bond between Stanten and Quinn. Their friendship was so genuine, and it was wonderful to watch it develop from the very beginning. It gave so much more meaning to their future connection in Ransom Canyon.

While I wasn’t a fan of Amala, the introduction of new characters like Peggy and Charlotte more than made up for it. They were vibrant, strong, and added fresh energy to the story in such a lovely way. Their romantic relationship stories are so heartwarming and tender.

I loved how I learned how to call for help if I am lost in a large ranch. It's important to know. Who knows, maybe I will go live in a ranch in the future. LOL

I wasn’t a fan of the ending, but that might be because I’m biased from having seen the show first. But it was still a 5 star read!

Jodi Thomas does what she does best, beautifully blending emotion, small-town charm, and authentic relationships. If you’ve seen the show, you’ll love diving deeper into the roots of these characters. And if you haven’t, this book is still a heartfelt, compelling read on its own. Highly recommend both books and series!

[Angela · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was my first Jodi Thomas novel and while I realize it was a prequel it took me a minute to catch up with the characters. I enjoyed the overall story and can’t wait to read more of Ransom Canyon. The book has extensive character development.

Deep in the heart of Texas, five generations of Kirklands built the sprawling Double K Ranch, battling fire and frost, outlaws and disease. It’s said the dirt flows through their veins as sure as Silverleaf Rapids flows through Ransom Canyon. But the canyon also had a way of becoming part of just about anyone who landed there . . .

19-year-old Staten Kirkland was studying at Texas Tech when he got the news that the grandfather who raised him, J.R. Kirkland, was fighting for his life. Now Staten would have to leave college behind, not to mention the girl he loved. And he’d have to grow up overnight. More than that, he’d have to become a boss—the boss—running thousands of acres of ranch. He’d always hated change. But change was barreling toward him . . .

Rootless and stuck in the dull routine that was her life, college professor Charlotte Lane escaped into fiction. But now she was restless for a change—in the form of being the new high school teacher at the small town bordering Ransom Canyon. Still, at this point in her life, what if she couldn’t change—or even remember how? Maybe she’d find others to show her the way . . .

The youngest of six, Peggy Warner came last in every way, not even worth sending to college. Now 27, she’s never left home and lives in service to her aging parents and her married siblings’ growing families. But she still has dreams—and under the big sky overlooking Ransom Canyon they may come true

[Leslie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Silverleaf Rapids is a heartfelt and grounded start to the Ransom Canyon series. Even without having read the other books or seen the Netflix show, this story pulled me in with its small-town Texas charm, layered characters, and themes of family, love, and starting over.
This isn’t just one story—it’s three. Staten is 19 and forced to leave college and the girl he loves when his grandfather falls ill. He returns home to run the family ranch, stepping into responsibility way sooner than expected. Then there's Peggy, the overlooked youngest in a big family, who’s given up her own life to care for everyone else. Her journey to finally chasing what she wants was one of my favorites. And Charlotte, a burned-out professor looking for something different, finds a fresh start—and maybe love—when she moves to Ransom Canyon.
Jodi Thomas gives each character their own arc, and while the book shifts between them, it all weaves together smoothly. I liked that the romance felt slow and real, not rushed. And the setting? You can feel the West Texas dust, the family legacy in the land, and how deep the roots run at the Double K Ranch.
The pacing dips a little in the middle, and yes, you’ll see a few familiar romance tropes, but I didn’t mind—it’s more about the journey than the twists. If you love quiet strength, second chances, and stories with heart, this one’s for you.
Whether you're new to the Ransom Canyon world or already a fan, this prequel is a solid intro. I’m definitely curious to keep going with the series now.

᪥ Small town
᪥ First Love
᪥ Protective Hero
᪥ Slow Burn

[Kathryn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another utterly charming story of Ransom Canyon from Jodi Thomas. It's a prequel to her Ransom Canyon series and has all the hallmarks of a Jodi Thomas story. Texas in all its glory, along with hardworking cowboys, quaint and wonderful characters and a good story.

We meet three main characters in the book, first of all Staten who at nineteen is thrust into being the Boss at the ranch when his grandfather has a stroke. Staten has help from his crew and his grandmother, but still he has to step up, while being heart broken at having to let go his desire for higher education. And then his girlfriend Amalah seems to be growing away from him.

My favorite is Peggy, who is overlooked and invisible to her family. She is the general dogsbody of the family with no life of her own. That is until Duke steps in and life takes an upward turn.

Charlotte or Dr. Lane as she corrects you if you call her Miss Lane. She is an English teacher arrived in Crossroads to take over the English teaching at the high school. Oh and to be the coach of the football team. She takes it all on, looking to change up her life and Jake another teacher at the high school turns out to be a promising addition to this goal.

While three characters could be annoying it really works out because their lives are integrated in interesting ways and I really enjoyed seeing it all play out.

If you haven't read the Ransom Canyon series I do recommend it, and starting with this prequel could be a good idea. It's made me want to reread the whole series over again. 
4.5 stars.

[Shelley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you, Jodi Thomas, Kensington Publishing, and Hambright PR for this gifted paperback of 𝘚𝘪𝘭𝘷𝘦𝘳𝘭𝘦𝘢𝘧 𝘙𝘢𝘱𝘪𝘥𝘴!

"He loved the Double K with every fiber of his being. It was a part of him. His family’s legacy. Like his gramps always said, the dirt of Ransom Canyon was in his blood. He’d never give it up. Not for anyone." (Staten Kirkland)

Review:

This is the prequel to the Ransom Canyon series. I watched the first episode on Netflix just so I could get an idea of the setting and characters. 🙂

I really enjoyed this book, the Kirkland family, and reading about the Double K Ranch. There were so many great characters, each with their own stories and their own romantic relationships.

I felt bad for Staten having to leave college and his girlfriend, Amalah, but I thought it was great that he came home to help run the
family ranch while his grandfather recovered.

I also felt bad for Peggy. Her family used her for everything while making her feel like she was worth nothing. She was a very strong woman and always did what was asked of her. Peggy was so funny, though! My favorite part is when she stole donuts after her aunt told her they didn't have enough for her.

This book was so much fun, and I loved reading about the family history.

I highly recommend Silverleaf Rapids. It's available to purchase on Kindle, Amazon, and Audible. The 8 books in the Ransom Canyon series are available on Kindle Unlimited!