There is no greater trust than the one between a rider and her horse. Kirstie Scott lives for horses. She is leading a horse trek through Miners' Ridge when a sudden storm causes a landslide. She is trapped alone in Dead Man's Canyon with a herd of wild horses whose leader―a proud stallion―has been hurt by falling rocks. Cold, wet, and alone in the gathering storm―can she find a way out and help the injured stallion? The Horses of Half Moon Ranch Series: Wild Horses (Book 1) Rodeo Rocky (Book 2) Crazy Horse (Book 3) Johnny Mohawk (Book 4) Lady Midnight (Book 5) Third-Time Lucky (Book 6) Grade 4–6—Kirstie Scott's family runs a successful vacation ranch in Colorado, and the 13-year-old loves her lifestyle. In the first book, she witnesses the mistreatment of a stallion at a rodeo so her mother purchases the horse—a major error according to their senior hand. Kirstie faces the daunting job of training the animal to live and interact appropriately with other horses and with people at the ranch. In the second title, the protagonist is on a trek with a group of tourists when an unexpected thunderstorm causes a landslide. She is cut off from the rest of the trail riders and trapped in a canyon with wild horses. One of them, a beautiful black stallion, has been hurt by falling debris. When help comes, Kirstie leaves the animal behind but then pleads with the vet to treat it. Returning to the canyon, she discovers that the entire herd has disappeared. In both books, illustrations are scattered throughout. Oldfield does a superior job of integrating factual information into the story lines. The plots moves quickly and the writing is straightforward. Some of the characters are not well developed, but Kirstie, who has strength and conviction, is a great role model. Good choices where books about horses are in high demand.— Melissa Buron, Epps Island Elementary, Houston, TX Copyright © Reed Business Information, a division of Reed Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved. "Pros: Believable characters, mystery, and an all-American girl combine in a story that will grab readers from the first page. Cons: None." ― The Reading Tub "For many readers there will be much to learn about in these stories including how wild horses are tamed and trained and what a rodeo is like. But the thing that shines through both of these stories and rings most true is the love and connection that Kirstie has for these horses. By caring for them and loving them, she learns much about herself and the world around her. A very enjoyable read." ― Crazy 4 Kids Books "All the elements of an engaging book are within the book’s 153 pages - love for animals, mystery, and strong female characters." ― The Friendly Book Book "This is an easy to read book that should appeal to young horse lovers. It's filled with adventure and a taste of ranch life." ― Horses.about.com "What I really like about these books are that they are wholesome. There are no worries about taboo subjects or make-up or boys. Just a sweet story about a girl who loves horses." ― A Mom Speaks Blog "I loved reading about this resourceful heroine! Her courage and confidence in her own abilities is what really drives the plot. This story should resonate with any girl who loves horses and loves to trust her own instincts." ― Teens Read Too Born and brought up in Harrogate, Yorkshire, Jenny Oldfield went on to study English at Birmingham University, where she did research on the Bronte novels and on Children’s Literature. She then worked as a teacher, before deciding to concentrate on writing. She writes novels for both children and adults and, when she can escape from her desk, likes to spend time outdoors. She loves the countryside and enjoys walking, gardening, playing tennis, riding her horse Merlin and traveling with her two daughters, Kate and Eve.