ReadonRye

Those two are going to be fun to watch.

First there was Jake's sililoque and Jo on the porch swing; what a unique way to tell a story. I had a hard time stopping reading to react and comment, so I have had to come back. Well worth it though. Somewhat different from most I've known, likely due to region, but Jo's speech pattern seems spot on. Like others, I'm anxious to hear his backstory at some point. About that horse, my guess is he's not from the area so can Mannly even ride?

That place of feeling like one's taken enough is such a painful place to stand. Jake will stand strong No, his disappearing into the night cannot happen. That would not be allowed!

These comments are greatly entertaining! When I read "Do Not Enter sign on her forehead," my immediate thought was of a sign blinking in big red lights, hanging below her belly button with an arrow pointing down. She sounds like a nasty piece of work.

Finding a gris-gris ,@Vcs, and a mention of its history, what a surprising treat! I'm looking forward to seeing how it comes into play. Good on Shir to share such a gift!

@Summerabbacat got that right with humor being in spades. Jake's hilarious unable to keep his thoughts to himself. I hope for and look forward to more of his slipups. Then there was the hullabaloo, I've not heard that word in ages. The idea of rescues is so appealing and Two Spirits sounds like the perfect home for four-legged beings in need as well. Great use of natural remedies. I personally love Chagra. I am in full agreement with @Wiyot, and being allowed to hear the characters' inner dialogue adds so much.

Dulcet tones, perfectly phrased. Shir is one I look forward to learning more about as well. A 'nod to someone' is a touching way to honor those we've known, and the imagery, one of those stoic ships that pass quietly, leaving little wake but a huge impression, is touching. Reading of Shir, I envision her exactly as described. While she stood strong for others, I always wondered who stood for her. It's no surprise you remember your 'Shir' so well.

Two Spirits vs two faced skank-skunk. I hope their town isn't filled with others like her.

I wish they all had. Just read a story about a young man across the pond who was thrown from a bridge and drowned because he didn't know how to swim.

It's interesting that it's already been shown Jake wasn't born on the ranch. By the name, it's tied to Native Americans and that alone has my attention. I enjoy finding stories with so many chapters published, available to binge read. One of my favorites

In the first read, I'm wondering if Jake shares a certain ability that allows him to remember all those details. I suspect so and look forward to finding out. There are plenty i'm sure who'd be 'pumped' to deliver due justice.

@Vcs you've grabbed my attention from the get. Late to the party but happy to have found this story through the number one recognition.