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Ashton: Yellowstone Descendants
Return to Yellowstone with the next generation of our beloved characters from the original series.
Saddlehorn, MT
Ashton Anderson, former town sweetheart and prodigal son of rancher Clint Anderson, has finally returned home. Where has he been for the last ten years, you ask? Apparently, working a smaller rodeo circuit up north. With his strength and skill, he should have done well, but he has returned battered, bruised, and grieving the loss of his faithful gelding, Dusty. As for the girlfriend who turned down his marriage proposal all those years ago . . .
Kelsey Winters has left her less-than-idyllic past behind. She now helps others as a therapist at the therapeutic riding center outside of town, although her own personal life seems to be a solid mess. She’s tried to be a good older sister to her brother, Darren, but she can’t protect him—or herself—from his poor choices. They’re one bad decision away from homelessness when they’re robbed and Darren is put in jail for possession of a controlled substance.
Due to circumstances beyond their control, Kelsey and Ashton’s long-ago romance resurfaces. But will it leave the gate running, or suffer a colossal wreck?
Saddlehorn, MT
Ashton Anderson, former town sweetheart and prodigal son of rancher Clint Anderson, has finally returned home. Where has he been for the last ten years, you ask? Apparently, working a smaller rodeo circuit up north. With his strength and skill, he should have done well, but he has returned battered, bruised, and grieving the loss of his faithful gelding, Dusty. As for the girlfriend who turned down his marriage proposal all those years ago . . .
Kelsey Winters has left her less-than-idyllic past behind. She now helps others as a therapist at the therapeutic riding center outside of town, although her own personal life seems to be a solid mess. She’s tried to be a good older sister to her brother, Darren, but she can’t protect him—or herself—from his poor choices. They’re one bad decision away from homelessness when they’re robbed and Darren is put in jail for possession of a controlled substance.
Due to circumstances beyond their control, Kelsey and Ashton’s long-ago romance resurfaces. But will it leave the gate running, or suffer a colossal wreck?
347 pages, Paperback
Published September 30, 2025
5 people are currently reading
45 people want to read
About the author
Anne Perreault
28 books531 followersAnne Perreault was born and raised in Germany. Her family moved to a very obscure city in the Middle East by the name of Dubai, where she spent the next ten years on and off. During this time, she discovered her passion for ice skating, trained, rode, and fell off high spirited Arabian horses, and collected an assortment of stray cats that found their way into their yard. She attended an American boarding school in Austria. After graduating, she moved to England for a year to start her college education. After meeting her husband, she moved to the US and finished her undergraduate degree in Biology in NH. The couple married and moved to CT to start a family. During the next fifteen years, Anne was busy raising three wonderful children, teaching horseback riding, homeschooling her kids, starting a therapeutic riding center with a group of church friends after becoming a certified instructor, and gaining her masters in teaching secondary education. Because she wasn't busy enough and didn't have enough going on, she prayed for an adventure. God stirred the pot of her comfortable life by first sending her husband to Iraq for two years. After his return, the family moved to VT where they are building a little house in the woods together. Anne started writing late in life when she heard God's suggestion. It took a while to obey but she's enjoyed writing stories that point that God cares, that He is available for anyone - no matter what they have done.
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Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews
April 11, 2026
ASHTON has got to be the best feel good story I have read in a long time. Hang on to your seats, it’s a crazy rollercoaster ride! At first, the story is fun and light. Then it takes a turn and gets emotional and deals with many different heavy situations. Ashton returns home after ten years away and tries to make amends with those he left behind. The prodigal son has returned! Kelsey has spent the past ten years trying to forget Ashton and the way he hurt her. Now they are face to face and Kelsey is drowning in the past and the feelings she buried for Ashton long ago!
ASHTON is filled with love, healing, second chances, and wonderful friendships. I have never read Anne Perreault before but after reading ASHTON I know I will be reading everything by her that I can get my hands on. She hooked me from the very first page. I found myself totally absorbed in this story and I enjoyed getting to know all of the characters within this heart tugging story. I found all of the characters very real and relatable and it was interesting to read how they are all dealing with their troubles in very different ways and it takes a village to try and help them in many different ways.
ASHTON has it all, adventure, heartbreak, great dialogue, and awesome characters. Once I started reading, it was very hard to stop! I have made it a quest to catch up on the rest of Anne’s books because her writing is just that good. She makes her readers feel every emotion her characters are feeling to the point where you feel as if you are right there, riding along with them. My emotions were on a wild roller coaster ride from the first page all the way until the very end. At first I really tried to read it slowly and make it last, but soon I was so caught up in everyone’s lives and business, I was flipping the pages like a mad woman.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from JustRead. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
ASHTON is filled with love, healing, second chances, and wonderful friendships. I have never read Anne Perreault before but after reading ASHTON I know I will be reading everything by her that I can get my hands on. She hooked me from the very first page. I found myself totally absorbed in this story and I enjoyed getting to know all of the characters within this heart tugging story. I found all of the characters very real and relatable and it was interesting to read how they are all dealing with their troubles in very different ways and it takes a village to try and help them in many different ways.
ASHTON has it all, adventure, heartbreak, great dialogue, and awesome characters. Once I started reading, it was very hard to stop! I have made it a quest to catch up on the rest of Anne’s books because her writing is just that good. She makes her readers feel every emotion her characters are feeling to the point where you feel as if you are right there, riding along with them. My emotions were on a wild roller coaster ride from the first page all the way until the very end. At first I really tried to read it slowly and make it last, but soon I was so caught up in everyone’s lives and business, I was flipping the pages like a mad woman.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from JustRead. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
April 8, 2026
There is a kind of weariness that does not come from a long day … it comes from keeping everything standing when nothing ever held you. This story stepped right into that.
Kelsey lives inside that quiet exhaustion. She keeps showing up, keeps holding things together, keeps carrying Darren and everything tied to him with a strength that feels learned rather than given. It is steady on the surface, yet underneath it feels like something that has been stretched for a long time. Anne Perreault writes her in a way that lets you feel all of it without trying to explain it away.
Ashton returns to a life that learned to move forward without him, and what grows between them is careful, almost guarded, shaped by what it costs to trust again.
What pressed on me most is how quietly something untrue can take root and remain.
“I couldn’t understand why Jesus would die for me … someone who was considered worthless.” That realization does not arrive easily. It comes through wrestling, through resistance, through the slow undoing of what has been believed for years.
“I’ve been praying for you to come home for years …” That kind of prayer holds steady even when nothing changes.
And in the middle of it all: “You need help beyond what humans are capable of …” This story carries that truth deeply. It shows how Jesus meets people within what they have been carrying, not from a distance, but personally … and begins, patiently, to reshape each surrendered, precious heart.
The tension surrounding Darren adds a weight that tightens the story without overtaking it. His choices, the consequences pressing in, the sense that things could unravel further at any moment … it reveals how fragile everything becomes when life is held together by human effort alone.
Anne Perreault writes in a way that doesn’t try to prove anything … she just lets the story breathe. And in that space, the faith feels real. Not placed there to be seen, but lived through every part of it. It meets the broken places, the questions, the surrender and it leaves a meaningful imprint that reaches deeper than you expect.
I received the eARC of this book from the author and JustRead Publicity Tours, LLC. I am not required to write a positive review in any way or for any reason. My honest and unbiased opinions expressed in this book review are my own. My review focuses on the writing style, the pacing, and the story’s content, ensuring transparency and reliability.
Kelsey lives inside that quiet exhaustion. She keeps showing up, keeps holding things together, keeps carrying Darren and everything tied to him with a strength that feels learned rather than given. It is steady on the surface, yet underneath it feels like something that has been stretched for a long time. Anne Perreault writes her in a way that lets you feel all of it without trying to explain it away.
Ashton returns to a life that learned to move forward without him, and what grows between them is careful, almost guarded, shaped by what it costs to trust again.
What pressed on me most is how quietly something untrue can take root and remain.
“I couldn’t understand why Jesus would die for me … someone who was considered worthless.” That realization does not arrive easily. It comes through wrestling, through resistance, through the slow undoing of what has been believed for years.
“I’ve been praying for you to come home for years …” That kind of prayer holds steady even when nothing changes.
And in the middle of it all: “You need help beyond what humans are capable of …” This story carries that truth deeply. It shows how Jesus meets people within what they have been carrying, not from a distance, but personally … and begins, patiently, to reshape each surrendered, precious heart.
The tension surrounding Darren adds a weight that tightens the story without overtaking it. His choices, the consequences pressing in, the sense that things could unravel further at any moment … it reveals how fragile everything becomes when life is held together by human effort alone.
Anne Perreault writes in a way that doesn’t try to prove anything … she just lets the story breathe. And in that space, the faith feels real. Not placed there to be seen, but lived through every part of it. It meets the broken places, the questions, the surrender and it leaves a meaningful imprint that reaches deeper than you expect.
I received the eARC of this book from the author and JustRead Publicity Tours, LLC. I am not required to write a positive review in any way or for any reason. My honest and unbiased opinions expressed in this book review are my own. My review focuses on the writing style, the pacing, and the story’s content, ensuring transparency and reliability.
April 3, 2026
Prodigal son trope meets cowboy, yes please.
Ashton by Anne Perreault is the second book I have read by her, and I look forward to reading some more. This is a new series based on the descendants of a previous series. This can be read as a standalone.
The story begins with Ashton proposing to Kelsey at the age of 17. Because of Kelsey’s upbringing, she declines, and in the aftermath, Ashton runs off. 10 years have passed, and after a riding accident, Ashton has returned home. A lot has changed in 10 years. Kelsey was able to fight all odds-her father in prison, her mother died when she was 10, being brought up by her grandmother, who blames Kelsey and her brother for ruining her son’s life, being half Crow and having to deal with the racism and rejection that caused.
Kelsey’s grandmother, though rich, left the grandchildren with no inheritance when she died, instead choosing to give her wealth to charity. With no help at all, Kelsey graduated from college with a master’s degree and is working as a therapist at the therapeutic riding center. Kelsey is trying hard to help her brother Darren, who is struggling with drugs and finds himself in trouble with the law, after a home break-in. Things seem to be spiraling, but leaning into God is the only way that Kelsey is going to get through it all.
Ashton is trying to find a new normal for himself. Having returned home and mended relationships while also healing from his accident. He is still in love with Kelsey, but doesn’t want to scare her off. He wants what is best for Kelsey. I won't ruin the story, so I will leave things there, but this story was perfect.
This second-chance romance is perfect and sweet with kisses only.
Anne Perreault did a great job of intertwining faith throughout the story.
*I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book, which I received from the author. A positive review was not required. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
Ashton by Anne Perreault is the second book I have read by her, and I look forward to reading some more. This is a new series based on the descendants of a previous series. This can be read as a standalone.
The story begins with Ashton proposing to Kelsey at the age of 17. Because of Kelsey’s upbringing, she declines, and in the aftermath, Ashton runs off. 10 years have passed, and after a riding accident, Ashton has returned home. A lot has changed in 10 years. Kelsey was able to fight all odds-her father in prison, her mother died when she was 10, being brought up by her grandmother, who blames Kelsey and her brother for ruining her son’s life, being half Crow and having to deal with the racism and rejection that caused.
Kelsey’s grandmother, though rich, left the grandchildren with no inheritance when she died, instead choosing to give her wealth to charity. With no help at all, Kelsey graduated from college with a master’s degree and is working as a therapist at the therapeutic riding center. Kelsey is trying hard to help her brother Darren, who is struggling with drugs and finds himself in trouble with the law, after a home break-in. Things seem to be spiraling, but leaning into God is the only way that Kelsey is going to get through it all.
Ashton is trying to find a new normal for himself. Having returned home and mended relationships while also healing from his accident. He is still in love with Kelsey, but doesn’t want to scare her off. He wants what is best for Kelsey. I won't ruin the story, so I will leave things there, but this story was perfect.
This second-chance romance is perfect and sweet with kisses only.
Anne Perreault did a great job of intertwining faith throughout the story.
*I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book, which I received from the author. A positive review was not required. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
Did Not Finish
April 12, 2026Since I lived in Montana for over 20 years, I always like to read any story I can that's set in Montana. Throw in horses, and I'm definitely hooked!
Ashton is the first book I have read by Anne Perreault, and what an introduction! It's also the first of a new series, "Yellowstone Descendants." While I haven't read any of the original series, I didn't feel lost in Ashton. But I certainly would like to go read that series now.
Ashton is the returning "prodigal son" after having been injured in an accident. His former girlfriend, Kelsey, works as a therapist at a therapeutic riding center. She's out to prove her grandmother wrong, who always told her she would never amount to anything.
This story is full of emotion, compassion, forgiveness and growth.
If you enjoy contemporary Christian romance, set in the beautiful state of Montana, and horses, be sure to add this to your TBR list!
Ashton is the first book I have read by Anne Perreault, and what an introduction! It's also the first of a new series, "Yellowstone Descendants." While I haven't read any of the original series, I didn't feel lost in Ashton. But I certainly would like to go read that series now.
Ashton is the returning "prodigal son" after having been injured in an accident. His former girlfriend, Kelsey, works as a therapist at a therapeutic riding center. She's out to prove her grandmother wrong, who always told her she would never amount to anything.
This story is full of emotion, compassion, forgiveness and growth.
If you enjoy contemporary Christian romance, set in the beautiful state of Montana, and horses, be sure to add this to your TBR list!
October 18, 2025
I loved this book!
What drew me to this book, in addition to it being Christian fiction, were the reviews that mentioned it was loosely based on the Prodigal Son. It's a wonderful story about people who make mistakes, but through the grace of God and His guidance, they learn from them and come out on the other side with stronger faith and character. It's about forgiveness and relationships and it's filled with romance, love, romantic tension and some really good mystery and suspense that kept me guessing till the end. Anne's style of writing kept me thoroughly engaged. I really enjoyed reading this book and highly recommend it. Needless to say, I'm looking forward to the next book in the series!
What drew me to this book, in addition to it being Christian fiction, were the reviews that mentioned it was loosely based on the Prodigal Son. It's a wonderful story about people who make mistakes, but through the grace of God and His guidance, they learn from them and come out on the other side with stronger faith and character. It's about forgiveness and relationships and it's filled with romance, love, romantic tension and some really good mystery and suspense that kept me guessing till the end. Anne's style of writing kept me thoroughly engaged. I really enjoyed reading this book and highly recommend it. Needless to say, I'm looking forward to the next book in the series!
April 7, 2026
I didn’t know a thing about Anne Perreault’s books before I picked this one up. I hadn’t read the Yellowstone series. Didn’t know a thing about the characters or their backstory. But now I must go read All the Books, because I have fallen in love with Saddlehorn, Montana and its residents!
Ashton and Kelsey both have their share of baggage. When Ashton proposed marriage to Kelsey, they were both teenagers. Ashton feared losing her when she went away to college, so he did the only thing he could think of. It went badly, and he fled town out of embarrassment and hurt, not letting anyone except his cousin Ryley know where he was (and swearing her to secrecy). Kelsey already had her challenges to face. Her mother died at a young age. Her father turned out to be an art thief and got himself thrown in prison. Her only family was her father’s mother (a harsh, bitter woman who never let Kelsey forget how worthless she should feel about herself and who bequeathed her considerable wealth to charity rather than give her grandchildren anything) and her younger brother, Darren. Add to that the fact that she and Darren were half-breeds – Crow mother, White father – and that was the cherry on the crap sandwich, because racism is still a thing, especially in her grandmother’s eyes.
Ten years later, Ashton returns home, literally broken. He’s been riding the rodeo circuit and got hurt pretty badly. He couldn’t think of anywhere else to turn, and he gets a mixed reception. His brother Luke is less than thrilled (I’d go so far as to say angry) that the prodigal has come dragging back in. His father and stepmother, while hurt that Ashton hadn’t thought he could come to them to work through life’s difficulties, are relieved he’s okay and glad to have him home. And Kelsey? Well. She wants to move on. She knows she should. She doesn’t want to see Ashton, even if he wants to see her. But will their past ties pull them back together?
I loved this story! Ashton made a stupid choice, bless his heart. He paid for it. Even now, he’s reluctant to accept help. He is the prodigal personified, and just like in Scripture, his brother, who’s been there, who’s seen the damage Ashton’s departure caused his parents, is less than enthusiastic to have Ashton rejoin the family.
But Ashton’s pain was at least partially of his own making. He chose to leave, and that led to everything else that happened to him. My heart really ached for Kelsey. Life happened to her in painful and nasty ways, and when she went off to college to improve her situation, she returned home to find her beloved younger brother addicted to drugs, partying like it’s 1999 and putting himself in all kinds of bad situations. In addition to all she’s carried growing up, she’s now riddled with guilt that she couldn’t protect Darren, and she struggles to let him feel the consequences of his choices even though he’s a grown man now.
So Perreault gave me all the feels with all the things Ashton and Kelsey were working through. But she also had me on the edge of my seat with the action! As sometimes happens, the past bleeds over into the present, and suddenly the father that Kelsey never expected to see again is back in town. The FBI shows up, trying to bust up a drug cartel, and Ryley (Deputy McClintoch) is playing second fiddle to straitlaced agent Cole Townsend as he tracks down information and bad guys. There were several moments where my heart was in my throat because I didn’t know what was going to happen next.
And I do love books where I learn something. Our straitlaced FBI agent asked Ryley if she knew taser stood for Thomas A. Swift’s Electric Rifle. I shared that with my husband, and he said that sounded like something made up for a story. So I had to look it up, and that is indeed what taser stands for! That’s our new thing we learned today. I see that Ryley’s story is coming up next. Can’t wait to see what happens with her and Agent Townsend!
Second-chance romance, faith in the midst of struggles, the story of the prodigal son, action, all in a Western setting – I am hooked. Anne Perreault, welcome to my list of favorite authors!
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from JustRead Publicity Tours. I was not required to leave a review. All opinions here are mine, and I don’t say nice things about books I don’t actually like.
Ashton and Kelsey both have their share of baggage. When Ashton proposed marriage to Kelsey, they were both teenagers. Ashton feared losing her when she went away to college, so he did the only thing he could think of. It went badly, and he fled town out of embarrassment and hurt, not letting anyone except his cousin Ryley know where he was (and swearing her to secrecy). Kelsey already had her challenges to face. Her mother died at a young age. Her father turned out to be an art thief and got himself thrown in prison. Her only family was her father’s mother (a harsh, bitter woman who never let Kelsey forget how worthless she should feel about herself and who bequeathed her considerable wealth to charity rather than give her grandchildren anything) and her younger brother, Darren. Add to that the fact that she and Darren were half-breeds – Crow mother, White father – and that was the cherry on the crap sandwich, because racism is still a thing, especially in her grandmother’s eyes.
Ten years later, Ashton returns home, literally broken. He’s been riding the rodeo circuit and got hurt pretty badly. He couldn’t think of anywhere else to turn, and he gets a mixed reception. His brother Luke is less than thrilled (I’d go so far as to say angry) that the prodigal has come dragging back in. His father and stepmother, while hurt that Ashton hadn’t thought he could come to them to work through life’s difficulties, are relieved he’s okay and glad to have him home. And Kelsey? Well. She wants to move on. She knows she should. She doesn’t want to see Ashton, even if he wants to see her. But will their past ties pull them back together?
I loved this story! Ashton made a stupid choice, bless his heart. He paid for it. Even now, he’s reluctant to accept help. He is the prodigal personified, and just like in Scripture, his brother, who’s been there, who’s seen the damage Ashton’s departure caused his parents, is less than enthusiastic to have Ashton rejoin the family.
But Ashton’s pain was at least partially of his own making. He chose to leave, and that led to everything else that happened to him. My heart really ached for Kelsey. Life happened to her in painful and nasty ways, and when she went off to college to improve her situation, she returned home to find her beloved younger brother addicted to drugs, partying like it’s 1999 and putting himself in all kinds of bad situations. In addition to all she’s carried growing up, she’s now riddled with guilt that she couldn’t protect Darren, and she struggles to let him feel the consequences of his choices even though he’s a grown man now.
So Perreault gave me all the feels with all the things Ashton and Kelsey were working through. But she also had me on the edge of my seat with the action! As sometimes happens, the past bleeds over into the present, and suddenly the father that Kelsey never expected to see again is back in town. The FBI shows up, trying to bust up a drug cartel, and Ryley (Deputy McClintoch) is playing second fiddle to straitlaced agent Cole Townsend as he tracks down information and bad guys. There were several moments where my heart was in my throat because I didn’t know what was going to happen next.
And I do love books where I learn something. Our straitlaced FBI agent asked Ryley if she knew taser stood for Thomas A. Swift’s Electric Rifle. I shared that with my husband, and he said that sounded like something made up for a story. So I had to look it up, and that is indeed what taser stands for! That’s our new thing we learned today. I see that Ryley’s story is coming up next. Can’t wait to see what happens with her and Agent Townsend!
Second-chance romance, faith in the midst of struggles, the story of the prodigal son, action, all in a Western setting – I am hooked. Anne Perreault, welcome to my list of favorite authors!
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from JustRead Publicity Tours. I was not required to leave a review. All opinions here are mine, and I don’t say nice things about books I don’t actually like.
April 6, 2026
A powerful introduction to the author's new series, 'Yellowstone Descendants,' this story is filled with grief, trauma, suspense, and personal growth . . .
Ashton Anderson left his family and his hometown ten years ago to escape a painful event and to try to find himself. Unfortunately, he did not contact his parents, close friends, or the young woman he left behind during those ten years.
When Ash finally returned to Saddlehorn, Montana, broken and battered, some accepted him back with open arms. Others didn't want to have anything to do with him. Although he was alone, he brought along his dreams and his young colt, Captain.
I enjoyed learning how Ashton, an experienced horseman and horse trainer, related to Captain, and how he trained the two-year-old colt.
This book contains a lot of action, an atypical romance, close friendships, rekindled family bonds, and a well-written mystery filled with suspense. There is a strong faith thread woven throughout the story which includes various characters sharing their beliefs and scripture with others.
Throughout the story, the author faces many tough issues in a straight-forward manner. Addiction, racism, abuse, and family problems are some issues which come to mind. I enjoy reading stories where flawed individuals make a lot of personal growth, and this story presents several examples of this particular theme. The story is completely clean in language and content.
I received a copy of this book from the author through JustRead Publicity Tours. All of my thoughts and opinions shared here are solely my own.
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Ashton Anderson left his family and his hometown ten years ago to escape a painful event and to try to find himself. Unfortunately, he did not contact his parents, close friends, or the young woman he left behind during those ten years.
When Ash finally returned to Saddlehorn, Montana, broken and battered, some accepted him back with open arms. Others didn't want to have anything to do with him. Although he was alone, he brought along his dreams and his young colt, Captain.
I enjoyed learning how Ashton, an experienced horseman and horse trainer, related to Captain, and how he trained the two-year-old colt.
This book contains a lot of action, an atypical romance, close friendships, rekindled family bonds, and a well-written mystery filled with suspense. There is a strong faith thread woven throughout the story which includes various characters sharing their beliefs and scripture with others.
Throughout the story, the author faces many tough issues in a straight-forward manner. Addiction, racism, abuse, and family problems are some issues which come to mind. I enjoy reading stories where flawed individuals make a lot of personal growth, and this story presents several examples of this particular theme. The story is completely clean in language and content.
I received a copy of this book from the author through JustRead Publicity Tours. All of my thoughts and opinions shared here are solely my own.
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April 9, 2026
Want a good Christian fiction novel? How about one that is a modern loose retelling of the prodigal son? This book is part of a new series, but that series is a continuation of another series. The first series is called Yellowstone, and this one is Yellowstone Descendants.
I love a good retelling, whether it’s a fairy tale retelling or a retelling of a Bible story. In this one, our main character has been gone for 10 years. Ashton was working a small rodeo circuit. But he’s back now. However, he’s not coming back strong. He’s coming back battered and bruised and grieving his gelding. Losing a horse is a hard thing. I’ve been there, done that and cannot recommend.
Meanwhile, his old girlfriend (who turned down his offer of marriage) is having a rough go at it, too. She’s working as a therapist at a therapeutic riding center. However, her personal life is less than peachy. She’s trying to take care of her brother, but he’s making some not-so-amazing choices. They’re close to homelessness when they’re robbed. And then her brother goes to jail for possessing a controlled substance.
So what happens when Ashton and Kelsey meet up? Is the past the past? Will they be able to help each other heal?
I have voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book, which I received from JustRead Publicity Tours. All views expressed are only my honest opinion. I was not required to write a positive review, nor was I compensated in any other way. All opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC regulations.
I love a good retelling, whether it’s a fairy tale retelling or a retelling of a Bible story. In this one, our main character has been gone for 10 years. Ashton was working a small rodeo circuit. But he’s back now. However, he’s not coming back strong. He’s coming back battered and bruised and grieving his gelding. Losing a horse is a hard thing. I’ve been there, done that and cannot recommend.
Meanwhile, his old girlfriend (who turned down his offer of marriage) is having a rough go at it, too. She’s working as a therapist at a therapeutic riding center. However, her personal life is less than peachy. She’s trying to take care of her brother, but he’s making some not-so-amazing choices. They’re close to homelessness when they’re robbed. And then her brother goes to jail for possessing a controlled substance.
So what happens when Ashton and Kelsey meet up? Is the past the past? Will they be able to help each other heal?
I have voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book, which I received from JustRead Publicity Tours. All views expressed are only my honest opinion. I was not required to write a positive review, nor was I compensated in any other way. All opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC regulations.
April 9, 2026
Christian Contemporary Fiction is a favorite genre of mine. I also really enjoy "Cowboy" novels. Ashton by Anne Perreault is Book 1 in the Yellowstone Descendants.
WOW, what an great start to a new series. This series is based on the Yellowstone series and I did not read any of the books from the Original Series, although now I think I want to go back and read the original series. I was not lost while reading, so it seems to be a GREAT Standalone book. This is Ashton Anderson's story.
Ashton is a Rodeo Cowboy who has returned home after many years of being a Prodigal Son. Ashton knows he is taking a risk returning home, but he feels that this time away has given him the opportunity to change, mature and grow. He also know that returning home he may also have to be face to face with the woman who broke his heart many years ago. Kelsey has been living life and working at a Therapeutic Riding Center. She had a rough life always being told she wasn't going to be someone. She is still making bad choices in life and worries about her future. Ashton returns home and they do come face to face. I really LOVED how the reunion was more then anticipated. The pair begin to talk about their past, present and future, both individual lives and their life as a couple. The healing that happens is very heartfelt and true. The book is about Forgiveness, Healing, Faith and LOVE. I HIGHLY recommend this book to anyone who enjoys Christian Contemporary Fiction and "Cowboys". GREAT BOOK!
WOW, what an great start to a new series. This series is based on the Yellowstone series and I did not read any of the books from the Original Series, although now I think I want to go back and read the original series. I was not lost while reading, so it seems to be a GREAT Standalone book. This is Ashton Anderson's story.
Ashton is a Rodeo Cowboy who has returned home after many years of being a Prodigal Son. Ashton knows he is taking a risk returning home, but he feels that this time away has given him the opportunity to change, mature and grow. He also know that returning home he may also have to be face to face with the woman who broke his heart many years ago. Kelsey has been living life and working at a Therapeutic Riding Center. She had a rough life always being told she wasn't going to be someone. She is still making bad choices in life and worries about her future. Ashton returns home and they do come face to face. I really LOVED how the reunion was more then anticipated. The pair begin to talk about their past, present and future, both individual lives and their life as a couple. The healing that happens is very heartfelt and true. The book is about Forgiveness, Healing, Faith and LOVE. I HIGHLY recommend this book to anyone who enjoys Christian Contemporary Fiction and "Cowboys". GREAT BOOK!
April 10, 2026
Broken hearts and broken dreams are the start of this story of two people coming home after being gone many years. In this loosely based story of the Prodigal son, we have a story told of healing, redemption, and dreams better than the first.
Ashton has come back home after ten long years, literally broken in body and a bit down in spirit. He is coming home after running away from home after his ex-girlfriend, Kelsey, broke his heart and refused his marriage proposal. I understand Ashton has to go and lick his wounds; however, I did feel the most for his parents when they were not even sure if he was dead or alive.
Kelsey has a bit of trouble of her own. She certainly has come from a rough background. Her wealthy grandmother did not love her or her younger brother and left nothing to them when she passed away. Kelsey has been taking care of her brother ever since, unfortunately he has been making some very unwise decisions that she is unable to fix for him. This all brings her back into the crosshairs of Ashton.
Both are a little older and wiser, can they let go of the past, good and bad, and reach for a better tomorrow? Great redemption story of hope.
I was provided a copy of this novel from the author. I was not required to post a positive review, and all views and opinions are my own.
https://pausefortales.blogspot.com/20...
Ashton has come back home after ten long years, literally broken in body and a bit down in spirit. He is coming home after running away from home after his ex-girlfriend, Kelsey, broke his heart and refused his marriage proposal. I understand Ashton has to go and lick his wounds; however, I did feel the most for his parents when they were not even sure if he was dead or alive.
Kelsey has a bit of trouble of her own. She certainly has come from a rough background. Her wealthy grandmother did not love her or her younger brother and left nothing to them when she passed away. Kelsey has been taking care of her brother ever since, unfortunately he has been making some very unwise decisions that she is unable to fix for him. This all brings her back into the crosshairs of Ashton.
Both are a little older and wiser, can they let go of the past, good and bad, and reach for a better tomorrow? Great redemption story of hope.
I was provided a copy of this novel from the author. I was not required to post a positive review, and all views and opinions are my own.
https://pausefortales.blogspot.com/20...
August 15, 2025
When I heard that the author was going to write a series based on the Descendants from her original Yellowstone series, I was ecstatic, to say the least! I love, love, love that series and this first Descendants book based on Ashton’s life does not disappoint!
This is a story loosely based on the prodigal son from the Bible. It includes life lessons, lost love and many trials and truths learned along the way.
Here are some quotes from the book, used with permission from the author.
“God is merciful. He turned a horrible mistake into something beautiful.”
“You are my son,” his father whispered into his ear, “and I am well pleased with you.”
Then there is also some fun banter that just cracked me up. Here’s an example:
“And if you still doubt that I can take care of myself, meet Babe Ruth.”
She pulled out her trusty baseball bat from beside her bed. Ashton grinned. Then he took a step backward when she took a swing at him. The tip of the bat missed him by a few inches. “You might want to choke up a bit on that bat. That was always your weakness.”
I highly recommend this read and although it has many familiar characters from the original Yellowstone series, it can be read as a stand alone. This book and the original series are all deserving of a 5 star rating ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
This is a story loosely based on the prodigal son from the Bible. It includes life lessons, lost love and many trials and truths learned along the way.
Here are some quotes from the book, used with permission from the author.
“God is merciful. He turned a horrible mistake into something beautiful.”
“You are my son,” his father whispered into his ear, “and I am well pleased with you.”
Then there is also some fun banter that just cracked me up. Here’s an example:
“And if you still doubt that I can take care of myself, meet Babe Ruth.”
She pulled out her trusty baseball bat from beside her bed. Ashton grinned. Then he took a step backward when she took a swing at him. The tip of the bat missed him by a few inches. “You might want to choke up a bit on that bat. That was always your weakness.”
I highly recommend this read and although it has many familiar characters from the original Yellowstone series, it can be read as a stand alone. This book and the original series are all deserving of a 5 star rating ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
September 26, 2025
This story is a medium-paced, character-and-plot-driven blend that’s emotional, hopeful, and inspiring, with just enough suspense to keep you guessing.
I know this is a continuation of the family saga from the Yellowstone series, but even though I didn’t read the original books, I never felt lost. Ashton is the long-lost prodigal son returning home, and his attempts to reconnect with Kelsey, whose struggles aren’t of her own making, drive much of the heart of this story.
Overall, I found the novel charming. It’s rich in family history, deep in connections, and filled with love. At its core, it’s a story of forgiveness and godly love, one that highlights surrendering fully to the Lord’s will. There’s also a thread of suspenseful drama and crime-busting that adds excitement beyond the family reunions and rekindled romance.
Anne Perreault always delivers a heartfelt story, and this is no exception. I’m excited for the next book in the series, which follows Ryley, Ashton’s cousin, who already plays a big role in Ashton's story. I also want to go back and read the first series to catch up on the original family saga.
I received a copy of this book from the author, but all thoughts and opinions are my own.
Trigger Warnings: teen pregnancy, mention of abortion (does not happen), miscarriage, drug abuse/addiction, rehab/relapse, racism, birth/c-section, hostage situation, gun violence.
I know this is a continuation of the family saga from the Yellowstone series, but even though I didn’t read the original books, I never felt lost. Ashton is the long-lost prodigal son returning home, and his attempts to reconnect with Kelsey, whose struggles aren’t of her own making, drive much of the heart of this story.
Overall, I found the novel charming. It’s rich in family history, deep in connections, and filled with love. At its core, it’s a story of forgiveness and godly love, one that highlights surrendering fully to the Lord’s will. There’s also a thread of suspenseful drama and crime-busting that adds excitement beyond the family reunions and rekindled romance.
Anne Perreault always delivers a heartfelt story, and this is no exception. I’m excited for the next book in the series, which follows Ryley, Ashton’s cousin, who already plays a big role in Ashton's story. I also want to go back and read the first series to catch up on the original family saga.
I received a copy of this book from the author, but all thoughts and opinions are my own.
Trigger Warnings: teen pregnancy, mention of abortion (does not happen), miscarriage, drug abuse/addiction, rehab/relapse, racism, birth/c-section, hostage situation, gun violence.
August 6, 2025
We met Ashton years ago when he was just a little boy. Now he is a grown up rodeo cowboy. One that has toured all over and is now coming back with his proverbial tail between his legs. He is coming home a broken and bruised man. One that has grown and changed. But has he changed enough? Will his family take him back? Will the town? Can he do it? Can he stay?
And then there is Kelsey. She grew up being told she wasn't good enough. And the voice in her head telling her that was a big reason as to why she made a choice years ago that changed her life. But was it the right choice? She's ready to move on from it. But can she?
This book takes us on a journey where both Ashton and Kelsey have a lot of growing up and healing to do. And they have the help of family, friends, each other and God to help them through. The peace of small town living is wonderful. But is there really peace happening?
I definitely enjoyed this book and love that the author is bringing us the story of the children we met in The Yellowstone series. I'm already excited for the rest of this series.
And then there is Kelsey. She grew up being told she wasn't good enough. And the voice in her head telling her that was a big reason as to why she made a choice years ago that changed her life. But was it the right choice? She's ready to move on from it. But can she?
This book takes us on a journey where both Ashton and Kelsey have a lot of growing up and healing to do. And they have the help of family, friends, each other and God to help them through. The peace of small town living is wonderful. But is there really peace happening?
I definitely enjoyed this book and love that the author is bringing us the story of the children we met in The Yellowstone series. I'm already excited for the rest of this series.
September 30, 2025
The story reminds me of The Prodigal Son from the Bible only with side stories to go with it. Ashton returns after 10 years of no contact with his family for a few reasons, one to heal from injuries and two to work on the family ranch with his horse that he hopes to breed. His former girlfriend still lives in the community and has issues of her own with her brother who has a drug addiction. This book is about redemption, forgiveness, healing, and second chances. I really enjoyed it and the characters and am looking forward to the second book.
January 29, 2026
Very enjoyable story with great characters and an interesting storyline. Ashton is so strong, even with running when his proposal went bad, he still took care of himself and his horses. I know Kelsey is harder to warmup to, but she is a very strong and capable character as well. Love there is faith in God that bad things can lead to good things and God knows what he is doing. So worth the tinpme to read.
October 10, 2025
Great story
A great story that includes crime, drugs, seeking & forgiveness.
She grew up loved by her mother who was now dead. Her father went to jail & her grandmother appeared to be heartless.
He ran when things got too emotional. He had been gone 10 years but now was back with his family.
Faith leads & guides people to be better.
A great story that includes crime, drugs, seeking & forgiveness.
She grew up loved by her mother who was now dead. Her father went to jail & her grandmother appeared to be heartless.
He ran when things got too emotional. He had been gone 10 years but now was back with his family.
Faith leads & guides people to be better.
September 21, 2025
I really enjoyed this book. It has forgiveness, love and friendship. It will keep you wanting to read more to find out what happens to the two main characters. It follows their love story and leaves you in suspense at times. Definitely a page turner. I highly recommend this book.
October 1, 2025
Ashton, at age 17, after asking his lifelong girlfriend to marry him, (she says no) leaves and doesn’t show back up for 10 years! His family didn’t know whether he was dead or alive. This book is so exciting, heart-wrenching, inspirational, witty, snarky, loveable, just everything you want to find in an excellently written book. I cannot spoil it for you by giving away the secrets. This author has put much hard work into this novel and it shows. I highly recommend it to everyone I know!! 🙏📕♥️
October 1, 2025
I always know I am in for a treat with this author, yet she surprises me with every new release, and this was no exception! Twists and turns? The unexpected? Danger lurking in the shadows? All of this and so much more, yet with every plot pointing to the Master of the universe, the only answer to every dilemma, every heartbreak, every challenge. Hope is instilled, faith is inspired as the story unfolds, reuniting with the familiar and beloved citizens of Saddlehorn MT as they stand strong against evil!
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