As a lifelong lover of the Western lifestyle, I have always had a soft spot for cowboys, horses, country music, and a good story. Now, I am thrilled to share some books that I think you will love to pick up and read this winter. No matter if you are young or just young at heart, there is a book in this roundup for you! So, saddle up for a reading romp out West with these Western book recommendations.
From exciting adventures to heartwarming stories, these books promise to gallop away with your heart. Grab your favorite comfy blanket, lasso a hot drink, and snuggle into your favorite chair for a cozy winter reading getaway to the Western world. Enjoy the ride!
Believing In Horses Out West, by Valerie Ormond
Believing In Horses Out West follows horse-crazy Sadie Navarro on an adventure to Montana to check on a horse she once rescued. Ranch life serves as the beautiful backdrop for this book’s themes of purpose, friendship, and the special bond between humans and horses. Horse lovers of any age will enjoy this novel, which teaches valuable lessons and shares exciting equestrian experiences. Amazon; $10.99
Land of the Horses, by Chris Lombard
In Land of the Horses, Chris Lombard embarks on a transformative journey from heartbreak to healing in the company of horses. He tells vivid stories about life lessons he learned in the American West, where he connected with majestic animals and himself. It’s a moving memoir of self-discovery and resilience. Trafalgar Square Books; $17.95
Y’all Eat Yet? | Welcome to the Pretty B*tchin’ Kitchen, by Miranda Lambert
Miranda Lambert’s cookbook, Y’all Eat Yet?, is a delightful tribute to family, friendship, and great food. Filled with cherished recipes and heartwarming stories, its pages invite you into a world of country comfort and joy. With a blend of sassy charm and culinary inspiration, this book is a treasure for any kitchen. Harper Collins; $35.00
Jump the Moon, by Kathy Simmers
Jump the Moon is a touching tale of a girl and her pony’s strong bond and their journey toward their dreams. This heartwarming true story will inspire all ages and emphasizes the limitless power of the heart. Bound to Happen Publishing; $19.95
Run Rose Run, by Dolly Parton and James Patterson
Dolly Parton and James Patterson team up for a musical mystery called Run, Rose, Run. The novel follows AnnieLee Keyes as she pursues her country music dreams, but her past shadows her career. An album of 12 original Dolly Parton songs is also available to accompany this suspenseful journey through the world of country music. Little, Brown and Company; $30.00
Starting Over in Maple Bay: A Sweet Small Town Cowboy Romance, by Brittney Joy
Starting Over in Maple Bay is a charming tale of fresh beginnings in a small town. Amidst renovating a historic carriage house, love blossoms for the heroine, yet unexpected secrets surface. This first book in the Maple Bay series combines romance, horses, cowboy charm, and a touch of mystery, topped with a delicious peanut butter pie recipe to boot. Amazon; $12.99
Finding Your Superhorse: 8 Keys to Developing the Horse That’s Just Right for You, by Lynn Palm
Lynn Palm, a legendary figure in horse training, shares her eight keys to success in Finding Your Superhorse. Learn how to unlock your horse’s potential in this book that combines practical tips and a passion for horses. Trafalgar Square Books; $32.95
The Horse is My Teacher Lessons from the Ranch: Training, Riding, Luck, and Love, by Van Hargis
In The Horse is My Teacher, Van Hargis shares valuable life lessons learned through his experiences in the saddle. With relatable stories from the ranch, he imparts essential horsemanship principles that also serve as guides for personal growth and success. A recommended read for horse lovers passionate about living life to the fullest. Trafalgar Square Books; $22.95
Never Burn Your Moving Boxes: A True Tale of a Real-Life Cowboy Wife, by Jolyn Young
Jolyn Young’s memoir vividly captures the unexpected turns life takes on remote Western ranches. Her story of finding love in the cowboy lifestyle—and the challenges it brought—offers a unique glimpse into a world far removed from the conveniences of modern life. From romantic cowboy dreams to the stark reality of marriage and motherhood, Jolyn’s story is brave, honest, and often heartbreakingly funny. Trafalgar Square Books; $19.95
This list of Western book recommendations appeared in the Winter 2023 issue of Western Life Today magazine. Click here to subscribe!
