As a first-time author, the journey of writing “Hoofprints in Saguaro Shadows” was incredibly exciting and deeply personal. The narrative follows the lives of two compelling characters, Rye Dalton and Alejandro Mendoza. Rye is a fiercely independent woman exemplifying the characteristics of country-raised women everywhere, while Alejandro is the seasoned Mexican Secretary of Foreign Affairs, whose character is complex and brings about the sense of a mystery to be solved. Together, they stand as guardians of the Dalton Ranch, a symbol of peace in a land fraught with conflict. Through their journey, themes of courage, resilience, and moral integrity are illustrated — qualities that I believe resonate deeply in today’s world.
In Hoofprints in the Ashes, the gripping sequel to Hoofprints in Saguaro Shadows, the Dalton Ranch faces its greatest test yet as society crumbles around it. The Hoofprints of War series follows the Dalton family’s unyielding fight to protect their land, heritage, and way of life against escalating threats. Where Hoofprints in Saguaro Shadows introduced readers to the relentless challenges of ranch life on the border, Hoofprints in the Ashes plunges them into a world on the brink of collapse—where civil unrest and lawlessness turn the ranch into a vital outpost of survival. With the upcoming release of Hoofprints of Revolution, the third book in the series, readers can anticipate an epic continuation of the Dalton family’s journey, as they stand at the crossroads of war and revolution, battling to secure their future in a fractured world.
I was born and raised in the American West, growing up on a family ranch, which provided me with a connection to the land and its stories. This is a theme vividly reflected in the narratives of the book.
I feel my experience training horses and participating in cow horse events helped me to bring authenticity and a realistic sense of place to the accounts. My experiences, from the dusty arenas of local competitions to the serene expanse of the ranchlands, serve as the backdrop for stories that explore themes of loyalty, resilience, and the complexities of human and environmental relationships.
I’ve always been fascinated by the American Southwest, its striking landscapes, and its rich cultural tapestry. This passion has fueled the story I’ve crafted, which intertwines historical context with contemporary issues, offering a unique perspective on the tensions and dynamics at the U.S.-Mexico border in the aftermath of the September 11 attacks.
Having lived in Mexico myself, I find its culture enamoring, adding depth and authenticity to my portrayal of Alejandro and his world. Composing this book has been a labor of love, a process filled with countless hours of research, writing, and revision.
Shay Taggert values feedback, questions, and discussions with readers who share a passion for stories of resilience, patriotism, and survival against all odds. Whether you’re interested in exploring themes from Hoofprints of War book series, discussing character insights, or learning about upcoming books in the series, your messages are welcome. Additionally, follow on social media for updates, release announcements, and exclusive content related to the series.
