Free Runner

Shadow Ridge

by Marissa R. Thomas

Stevie // There are a lot of things I like to think I excel at, but barrel racing is at the top of that list. I'm competitive by nature, and find the only time I truly feel alive is when I'm on the back of my horse, surrounded by a crowd. So when Finley gets injured, it feels like everything around me is falling apart. But when I see the new ranch veterinarian tending to my horse, I can't help but stop and stare. For the first time in my life, I find myself wanting to slow down, to enjoy the things around me—enjoy him. Which is why when I find out he needs to be married to get his inheritance to help his sick mother, it seems like a no-brainer to tell him to marry me. But as things between us start to feel less like a contract and more like an actual marriage, I find myself worried that it won't be me inclined to run away, but him.

Dean // I always knew I wanted to get out of a career that put me on the road. Don't get me wrong, tending to the horses and bulls during competition was steady income, but I hated being away from my mother when she needed me most. So when one of the bull riders informed me of an open position on his family's ranch, I jumped at the opportunity. But now I'm here, surrounded by the serenity and consistency that I wanted, and it still it feels like something is missing. Little did I know that an injured horse would show me exactly what that something was: a barrel racer with a wild heart and a free spirit that doesn't want to be tamed. She was the last person I'd expect to offer to help me, let alone marry me. Our arrangement was supposed to be a short one, but the more time we spend together, the harder it is for me to stay away—and all I want to do is ask her to keep my last name.

Paperback

Expected publication April 8, 2026

About the author

Marissa is a 27-year-old self-published author born and raised in the Midwest. She enjoys dabbling in many genres, from action to new adult, small town to sports romance. When she’s not writing, Marissa can usually be found curled up with her two pets, shopping with friends, or spending time with her family and significant other.