A Ruby Canyon Romance: Book 1
Publication Date: June 30, 2026
From first love to rival bids…
To forever?
Newly retired pro quarterback Josh Golden returns to Ruby Canyon, Wyoming, to open a kids’ football camp. Except Erin Perkins, his high school sweetheart, is bidding on the same property—the Triangle W ranch. Erin manages the Triangle W and wants to keep it as a working ranch for military veterans like herself as they adjust to leaving the service. Josh hasn’t seen Erin in fourteen years, but he’s thought about her. A lot. Even in spite of their land dispute, she still charms and challenges him. As the ranch’s fate divides the town, Josh finds himself facing the biggest decision of his life—fulfill a longheld career dream or rekindle a love sweeter than any 99-yard touchdown?
From Harlequin Heartwarming: Wholesome stories of love, compassion and belonging.
Book 1: The Hometown Hero’s Fourth of July

The Hometown Hero’s Fourth of July by Tanya Agler is the first book in the A Ruby Canyon series, and I am thrilled to see we will be returning.
This is a feel-good story with second chances front and center in a variety of ways. High school sweethearts Josh and Erin went their separate ways after high school because their communication skills were lacking. Now that their paths crossed unexpectedly in their small hometown, will their wishes come true?
She’s a rancher hoping to buy the ranch she’s working on with other veterans after the owner died unexpectedly and before the deal could be sealed. He’s a retired professional football star hoping to build a training facility and stadium on the same land. He also wants to rejuvenate the town. They take one step forward and many more back as they try to resolve their differences, but will they be able to? And could there be a happily ever after in their future?
The story has a good flow and some closure, along with hints for the next book, and the epilogue tied up some of the loose ends.
The Hometown Hero’s Fourth of July has scenic descriptions, solid friendships, and a second chance at love for the well-deserved main characters.

Award-winning author Tanya Agler writes low spice romances that revolve around “finding home with your heart.” A graduate of UGA, Tanya lives in metro Atlanta with her family and two dogs. Tanya loves the mountains, which are the backdrop of her Harlequin Heartwarming romances, including her upcoming Ruby Canyon series. When not writing, Tanya loves watching classic movies, hiking to waterfalls, or reading with a cup of tea and a sweet snack, preferably one made with chocolate.




















