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The Texas Two-Step #2
Chasing Charlie
This is an alternate cover edition of ASIN B008KRMS78.
Raised in a family of rodeo champions on a South Texas cattle ranch, Charlie wants only one thing: to avoid thrill-seeking cowboys.
Davis Murphy, cowboy wannabe and one of Dallas's most eligible bachelors, needs a pretty and witty faux fiancée so his widowed mother will marry her longtime gentleman friend.
Charlie, his local librarian, seems the prefect choice.
Charlie's first reaction is to run, but she's promised herself to step out of her plain-jane routine.
When Charlie accepts, Davis's plan is set. But now Charlie's sweet ways are challenging his bachelor heart.
THE TEXAS TWO-STEP, in series order
Chasing Charlie
Country Courtship
Courting Trouble
Raised in a family of rodeo champions on a South Texas cattle ranch, Charlie wants only one thing: to avoid thrill-seeking cowboys.
Davis Murphy, cowboy wannabe and one of Dallas's most eligible bachelors, needs a pretty and witty faux fiancée so his widowed mother will marry her longtime gentleman friend.
Charlie, his local librarian, seems the prefect choice.
Charlie's first reaction is to run, but she's promised herself to step out of her plain-jane routine.
When Charlie accepts, Davis's plan is set. But now Charlie's sweet ways are challenging his bachelor heart.
THE TEXAS TWO-STEP, in series order
Chasing Charlie
Country Courtship
Courting Trouble
192 pages, ebook
First published January 1, 2001
925 people are currently reading
1055 people want to read
About the author
Kathy Carmichael
36 books338 followersUSA Today Bestselling and award-winning author, Kathy Carmichael, writes mysteries, women's fiction and romance. Her romantic comedy, HOT FLASH, was named by the American Library Association's BOOKLIST as one of the Top 101 Romance Fiction titles of the last ten years. Her first mystery novel, DIARY OF A CONFESSIONS QUEEN, received a starred review from BOOKLIST.
She lives on Florida's west coast, along with her husband, two not-so-wee sons, 2 black cats, and a bevy of dust bunnies.
Kathy loves talking with readers and other writers. She's a popular guest lecturer at libraries, bookstores and writers' conferences.
Despite rumors to the contrary, she has never been recruited by the CIA or the other CIA (Culinary Institute of America).
She lives on Florida's west coast, along with her husband, two not-so-wee sons, 2 black cats, and a bevy of dust bunnies.
Kathy loves talking with readers and other writers. She's a popular guest lecturer at libraries, bookstores and writers' conferences.
Despite rumors to the contrary, she has never been recruited by the CIA or the other CIA (Culinary Institute of America).
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 187 reviews
October 31, 2024
A few years ago, I read this book, and it captivated me so much I read it twice.
The story was unputdownable both times. It follows Charlie, who, after losing her parents, was brought up by her two elder brothers on their family ranch. As soon as she could, she left for the city. Her role as a research librarian afforded her a life of anonymity, which she preferred. Having grown up on a ranch, she vowed never to date a cowboy.
Davis inherited Murphy Title from his father eight years prior. After turning the business around, he aspired to fulfill a lifelong dream of becoming a rancher like his grandfather. However, his plans were put on hold when his mother refused to remarry until Davis found a partner. To convince his mother he wasn't alone, Davis concocted a plan to present a pretend fiancée to her.
Although Davis had encountered Charlie at the library while researching ranches, he initially dismissed her as she wasn't his type. But after seeing her in a red dress, a stark contrast to her usual attire, he reconsidered. He proposed a fake engagement for a night, to which Charlie agreed, not realizing it would extend beyond a single evening.
The author's writing style was particularly appealing. The book was a compelling read, largely due to the well-crafted and believable characters. Despite their differences, they complemented each other perfectly.
In summary, this book was a delightful and engaging read that I thoroughly enjoyed.
The story was unputdownable both times. It follows Charlie, who, after losing her parents, was brought up by her two elder brothers on their family ranch. As soon as she could, she left for the city. Her role as a research librarian afforded her a life of anonymity, which she preferred. Having grown up on a ranch, she vowed never to date a cowboy.
Davis inherited Murphy Title from his father eight years prior. After turning the business around, he aspired to fulfill a lifelong dream of becoming a rancher like his grandfather. However, his plans were put on hold when his mother refused to remarry until Davis found a partner. To convince his mother he wasn't alone, Davis concocted a plan to present a pretend fiancée to her.
Although Davis had encountered Charlie at the library while researching ranches, he initially dismissed her as she wasn't his type. But after seeing her in a red dress, a stark contrast to her usual attire, he reconsidered. He proposed a fake engagement for a night, to which Charlie agreed, not realizing it would extend beyond a single evening.
The author's writing style was particularly appealing. The book was a compelling read, largely due to the well-crafted and believable characters. Despite their differences, they complemented each other perfectly.
In summary, this book was a delightful and engaging read that I thoroughly enjoyed.
April 15, 2015
3.5
This was a cute, lighthearted romance. Throw in a fake engagement and you've got an entertaining read. Davis knows his mother will never move on with her life if Davis isn't settled himself. So, Davis begs (more like tricks) the local librarian to be his fake fiancé for a night.
Charlie is at a point in her life where she wants to experience new things and push herself. I thought they were cute together and had fun chemistry. I did not get her aversion to cowboys. At all. I kept waiting for some big explanation (and maybe I missed something) but none really came. Overall, it was a fun escape and cute story.
Content
Romance: Squeaky clean
Language: None
Violence: None
Religious: None
Source: Kindle freebie
This was a cute, lighthearted romance. Throw in a fake engagement and you've got an entertaining read. Davis knows his mother will never move on with her life if Davis isn't settled himself. So, Davis begs (more like tricks) the local librarian to be his fake fiancé for a night.
Charlie is at a point in her life where she wants to experience new things and push herself. I thought they were cute together and had fun chemistry. I did not get her aversion to cowboys. At all. I kept waiting for some big explanation (and maybe I missed something) but none really came. Overall, it was a fun escape and cute story.
Content
Romance: Squeaky clean
Language: None
Violence: None
Religious: None
Source: Kindle freebie
July 18, 2014
Chasing Charlie by Kathy Carmichael is an ePublishing Works release. I was provided a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
What is the phrase? Short but sweet? This charming contemporary romance fits into that category. No, there really isn't anything in here that is new or unique per se, it's so darned cute I sat down and read it all in about an hour. Charlie is a librarian living a low key uneventful life and she likes it that way, thank you very much. But, a little dress on the rack catches her eye and then she catches the eye of cowboy Davis Murphy. Davis is on a mission to find himself a fiance that his mother will approve of. Why? Well, the man his mother is in love with is about to relocate to another country and she won't marry him until she is sure Davis is settled in a life of his own. So, he needs someone to pretend to be his fiance and Charlie is perfect for the job.
Charlie's heart is tender enough to give in when Davis makes his pitch. But, of course things get out of hand in a big hurry.
I enjoy this type of book because it's hard to stay in a bad mood or mad or feel down when you are reading it. Davis doesn't think Charlie is his “type” and Charlie doesn't want to ever be involved with a risk taking cowboy. Thankfully, these two have a few friends and advisers that give them a few things to think about. Sometimes we think we know what we want and prefer to stay in our comfort zone because.. well, it's comfortable. Davis and Charlie had reasons for the way they feel and some were superficial and others were very understandable. I did like how Davis and Charlie both put other people before themselves. I think these two are perfect for each other. This is a “sweet” romance with sure to leave you with a smile on your face. This one gets a 3.5 rounded to 4
What is the phrase? Short but sweet? This charming contemporary romance fits into that category. No, there really isn't anything in here that is new or unique per se, it's so darned cute I sat down and read it all in about an hour. Charlie is a librarian living a low key uneventful life and she likes it that way, thank you very much. But, a little dress on the rack catches her eye and then she catches the eye of cowboy Davis Murphy. Davis is on a mission to find himself a fiance that his mother will approve of. Why? Well, the man his mother is in love with is about to relocate to another country and she won't marry him until she is sure Davis is settled in a life of his own. So, he needs someone to pretend to be his fiance and Charlie is perfect for the job.
Charlie's heart is tender enough to give in when Davis makes his pitch. But, of course things get out of hand in a big hurry.
I enjoy this type of book because it's hard to stay in a bad mood or mad or feel down when you are reading it. Davis doesn't think Charlie is his “type” and Charlie doesn't want to ever be involved with a risk taking cowboy. Thankfully, these two have a few friends and advisers that give them a few things to think about. Sometimes we think we know what we want and prefer to stay in our comfort zone because.. well, it's comfortable. Davis and Charlie had reasons for the way they feel and some were superficial and others were very understandable. I did like how Davis and Charlie both put other people before themselves. I think these two are perfect for each other. This is a “sweet” romance with sure to leave you with a smile on your face. This one gets a 3.5 rounded to 4
September 2, 2015
I liked the preview for this book, but I had a hard time with the execution. There were times that the story lost it's flow. I was left feeling that pieces of the story went missing.
Charlie confused me. She is supposed to be a librarian and someone who doesn't take risks. She needs adventure and to live life. I can appreciate that, but her strong personality didn't seem to jive with that early description of her. She was a lot tougher than that and gave Davis and everyone else some serious sass. I liked that she was strong, but she spent too much time refusing to be with Davis. Once we find out why, it was a pretty weak description. If elaborated on, I am sure it could of been a beautiful understanding between them, but it was literally brushed over. There was a lot of issues the characters just assumed the situation or figured out on their own. The attention to detail was not there.
Davis was a bit better, but he too had some choppiness to his storyline. It took a while to find out what his actual job was. Which to me made sense to tell because of his longing to own a ranch. He also turned from the forever bachelor into the marrying man overnight. It just wasn't believable.
This had the potential to be a really cute love story and it had it's moments. I just found too many missing elements to fall in love with it. ⭐️⭐️.
Charlie confused me. She is supposed to be a librarian and someone who doesn't take risks. She needs adventure and to live life. I can appreciate that, but her strong personality didn't seem to jive with that early description of her. She was a lot tougher than that and gave Davis and everyone else some serious sass. I liked that she was strong, but she spent too much time refusing to be with Davis. Once we find out why, it was a pretty weak description. If elaborated on, I am sure it could of been a beautiful understanding between them, but it was literally brushed over. There was a lot of issues the characters just assumed the situation or figured out on their own. The attention to detail was not there.
Davis was a bit better, but he too had some choppiness to his storyline. It took a while to find out what his actual job was. Which to me made sense to tell because of his longing to own a ranch. He also turned from the forever bachelor into the marrying man overnight. It just wasn't believable.
This had the potential to be a really cute love story and it had it's moments. I just found too many missing elements to fall in love with it. ⭐️⭐️.
April 13, 2015
4.5 I really liked this one. Quick, clean, witty, and fun. I had to laugh at Charlie, she was a cute, shy little librarian who blames it all on the little red dress.
August 10, 2016
Charlie Nelson lost her parents when she was eight years old. Being raised on the family ranch by her two older brothers, she left as soon as she was old enough. She took a job as a research librarian which helped her to stay withdrawn and out of the public eye, never taking chances or experiencing life. Her one rule was to never have anything to do with a cowboy. When her roommate gets engaged, Charlie decides it’s time to gradually step out of her shell.
When Davis Murphy’s father died eight years ago, he became owner of Murphy Title by default. As the business becomes successful, Davis looks forward to pursuing his lifelong dream of becoming a cowboy like his grandfather, and owning a ranch. When he discovers that his mother is holding off getting married until she is sure he has settled down, he plots to fool her by introducing a pretend fiancée for one night. After that, his mother would accept her boyfriend’s marriage proposal and leave for Tokyo, and that would be that.
Davis approaches Charlie for help and she reluctantly agrees. But the plan backfires when Davis’ mother wants Charlie to be in her wedding. It goes from one night, to spending the weekend together, and then another. The more Charlie tries to get away, the more Davis wants her near. Will he finally win her heart the way she has won his?
It was amusing when the deception kept escalating, and I could really feel the connection between Charlie and Davis, even if they couldn’t. I think I was as frustrated as Davis was each time Charlie turned away from him. And even though Davis’ mother was unaware of the deception, I got the feeling that deep down she knew. I really enjoyed Charlie’s brothers, Monty Joe and Bobby Gray. The author did a fantastic job with them. I look forward to the next chapter on this blended family.
When Davis Murphy’s father died eight years ago, he became owner of Murphy Title by default. As the business becomes successful, Davis looks forward to pursuing his lifelong dream of becoming a cowboy like his grandfather, and owning a ranch. When he discovers that his mother is holding off getting married until she is sure he has settled down, he plots to fool her by introducing a pretend fiancée for one night. After that, his mother would accept her boyfriend’s marriage proposal and leave for Tokyo, and that would be that.
Davis approaches Charlie for help and she reluctantly agrees. But the plan backfires when Davis’ mother wants Charlie to be in her wedding. It goes from one night, to spending the weekend together, and then another. The more Charlie tries to get away, the more Davis wants her near. Will he finally win her heart the way she has won his?
It was amusing when the deception kept escalating, and I could really feel the connection between Charlie and Davis, even if they couldn’t. I think I was as frustrated as Davis was each time Charlie turned away from him. And even though Davis’ mother was unaware of the deception, I got the feeling that deep down she knew. I really enjoyed Charlie’s brothers, Monty Joe and Bobby Gray. The author did a fantastic job with them. I look forward to the next chapter on this blended family.
December 14, 2015
How far would you go to make sure your parents lived the life they really wanted? That's the deliberation of Davis, a wannabe cowboy who has always dreamt of owning his own ranch but had to put that all on hold since he had to take over his fathers business when he died. Not only that Davis is the handsome bachelor in town who could have his pick of any lady, happy as he is his mother's isn't. Her only dream is to see her son married, she has even turned down moving to Tokyo with the love of her own life as she cannot leave Davis until he is settled. What is he to do? Davis and his father in law to be, Jim, come up with a plan to find a fiance to show to his mother until she finally agrees to live her own life and be happy.
Charlie is one of the town librarians who Davis regularly sees as he continues to study up on his dream ranch, not his usual type but his mother would like her, although there is something about her..... Charlie encouraged by her roommate to start being more daring in life and take the odd risk accepts to the challenge of being the pretend finance, after all there's no possible chance anything else would happen as she detests cowboys. Simple enough plan, but will it work out the way they planned or will things take a romantic turn?
This was a real quick read, full of fun I found myself smiling and chuckling throughout. I loved the predicaments they found themselves in, their constant teasing of each other and wondering what would happen next in the storyline. As I've mentioned before romance isn't my first choice in reading but this surprised me and I actually found myself loving the read, there is a charm to this pair that seems to take hold of you.
A nice entertaining read that I really enjoyed, looking forward to book 2 and catching up with everyone yeehaw!!
Charlie is one of the town librarians who Davis regularly sees as he continues to study up on his dream ranch, not his usual type but his mother would like her, although there is something about her..... Charlie encouraged by her roommate to start being more daring in life and take the odd risk accepts to the challenge of being the pretend finance, after all there's no possible chance anything else would happen as she detests cowboys. Simple enough plan, but will it work out the way they planned or will things take a romantic turn?
This was a real quick read, full of fun I found myself smiling and chuckling throughout. I loved the predicaments they found themselves in, their constant teasing of each other and wondering what would happen next in the storyline. As I've mentioned before romance isn't my first choice in reading but this surprised me and I actually found myself loving the read, there is a charm to this pair that seems to take hold of you.
A nice entertaining read that I really enjoyed, looking forward to book 2 and catching up with everyone yeehaw!!
August 1, 2014
Chasing Charlie is a fun, witty, lighthearted romance ~ perfect for a day at the beach or poolside.
Charlie is a librarian whose life seems to be in a rut. After losing someone in a rodeo accident, she never wants anything to do with a cowboy again. She left her family’s ranch after the death of her parents to live in the big city and has always played it safe. She decides to take a small step toward being less withdrawn and putting herself out there. That first step was buying, and actually daring to wear, a silky, sexy red dress.
Davis Murphy is a very successful businessman and one of Dallas’s most eligible bachelors. He dreams of someday owning a ranch and of being a rodeo cowboy.
He needs to convince his mother that he has found the love of his life and will soon be settling down and getting married.
Here’s the fun part … he decides he needs a fake finance’ to introduce to his mother. If he is happily engaged to be married, he believes she will agree to marry her gentleman friend (who has been proposing to her for a long, long time). He begs Charlie to go along with the charade …
Let me just say … Oh the tangled web we weave when first we practice to deceive … (thanks, Sir Walter Scott)
I highly recommend going along on this adventure with Charlie and Davis … it’s a fun and relaxing way to spend the day :)
Charlie is a librarian whose life seems to be in a rut. After losing someone in a rodeo accident, she never wants anything to do with a cowboy again. She left her family’s ranch after the death of her parents to live in the big city and has always played it safe. She decides to take a small step toward being less withdrawn and putting herself out there. That first step was buying, and actually daring to wear, a silky, sexy red dress.
Davis Murphy is a very successful businessman and one of Dallas’s most eligible bachelors. He dreams of someday owning a ranch and of being a rodeo cowboy.
He needs to convince his mother that he has found the love of his life and will soon be settling down and getting married.
Here’s the fun part … he decides he needs a fake finance’ to introduce to his mother. If he is happily engaged to be married, he believes she will agree to marry her gentleman friend (who has been proposing to her for a long, long time). He begs Charlie to go along with the charade …
Let me just say … Oh the tangled web we weave when first we practice to deceive … (thanks, Sir Walter Scott)
I highly recommend going along on this adventure with Charlie and Davis … it’s a fun and relaxing way to spend the day :)
July 23, 2014
Talk about a strange plot to a novel, but let me say ” It works”!! I thoroughly enjoyed reading about this swear-off all cowboy type librarian, who gets tangled up in a escapade with none other than a champion, a champion cowboy that is! And is it all just a ruse to help fulfill a plan for his mother to marry? Maybe- Maybe not? Will Charlie become entangled into true love in which she turned her back on?
There were times where a literally started giggling-which really caught me off guard. I am not a romance reader in general, so my expectations were far from the great story that I ended up reading. If you are looking for just pure enjoyment with a little twist of laughter and an interesting basis story line, the Chasing Charlie is for you.
On another note: Charlie has to be a strong-willed person to make that decision about cowboys, even as a young child I wanted a cowboy. As a teen I got to the “bad boy” phase, but if a true cowboy showed up he would win hands down. Who doesn't want a cowboy in their life, I mean really who?
There were times where a literally started giggling-which really caught me off guard. I am not a romance reader in general, so my expectations were far from the great story that I ended up reading. If you are looking for just pure enjoyment with a little twist of laughter and an interesting basis story line, the Chasing Charlie is for you.
On another note: Charlie has to be a strong-willed person to make that decision about cowboys, even as a young child I wanted a cowboy. As a teen I got to the “bad boy” phase, but if a true cowboy showed up he would win hands down. Who doesn't want a cowboy in their life, I mean really who?
August 7, 2014
When it comes to clean romances, I often demand quite a bit from the authors and the stories they write. I expect little to no profanity, no bedroom scenes, and engaging characters with a genuinely intriguing story. Add a bit of humor, and I will be eternally grateful. I am quite happy to report that this book has all that and more! Squeaky clean, full of fantastic romance, and filled with smart humor. To make it even better, the book is such a quick read that the reader can potentially complete the book in one setting. This is the first book in the series, and I hope to read more. The action was a little quick at the end, but the book would have been much longer had she chosen to slow down the action. This is an extraordinarily delightful romance in every way.
I was sent a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. I was not financially compensated, and all opinions are 100 percent mine.
I was sent a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. I was not financially compensated, and all opinions are 100 percent mine.
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April 15, 2015Did not finish at 5%, which is quite shocking to me. It's just that, at some point, I couldn't understand what was written. I don't know, is it meant for only Texans to understand?
Anyway, not rating it, wouldn't be fair to do so, maybe someday I'll give it another go.
Shame.
Anyway, not rating it, wouldn't be fair to do so, maybe someday I'll give it another go.
Shame.
November 1, 2015
I liked this book. It was a nice quite romance even if it was a common idea in a book. He needed a fake fiancee and they fell for each other. It was the typical cliche but it was well written and I enjoyed it.
March 3, 2018
2.5 stars. Enjoyable but not much substance. I finished it and can't recall much already.
May 7, 2017
The basic plot idea is maybe a good idea for a romance novel, but the execution just didn't work for me.
August 1, 2014
This book was an adorable and fun read. The author is amazing by getting straight to the point with what the plot is going to be about, and I really appreciated that. I have not been a fan of books that take too long to develop the story and plot in the beginning. The character of Davis Murphy is a businessman that is very successful and is one of the bachelors in Dallas that is most eligible. It’s a funny bit that he is a guy that wants to be a cowboy. He has always wanted to be one and so he gives it his all. Davis’ mother has turned down a suitor named Jim (all because Davis is not settled down and happy for himself). Davis has a great plan on how to get Jim and his mother together. He has two weeks to get everything together before Jim will leave to go to Tokyo. The pressure is definitely on and you can feel it as a reader. I really liked that the fast paced story could be felt with the urgency as you read. Davis needs to find a woman for himself to fake being his fiance so that his mother can be introduced to her. His mother will then in turn be happy and accept the proposal from Jim. He can not find anyone to do this that has been his girlfriend because they are not the type that his mother wants to see him with. So who will he bring home to mom so that he can put his plan in action?
That’s where Charlie comes in (real name Charlotte Nelson). She is a librarian who was recently on the outs with her boyfriend, Phillip. She does not want anything to do with cowboys or even anyone that wants to be a cowboy. That means that Davis is not her type by any means because he has always wanted to be a cowboy. She eventually becomes the role of Davis’ fiance so that she can go to dinner with him, his mother and Jim. It was supposed to be dinner, but then it turns into a whole weekend. I don’t want to say that this story is typical by any means that Charlie and Davis start to have feelings for one another, but isn’t this what you would want to read from this story? I scream yes. She still has a problem with Davis wanting to be a cowboy, but will it work out in the end? Read it for yourself and find out! I can not wait to read more in this series. Fast and fun read that I recommend highly.
I received this book to review through Beck Valley Books Book Tours, all the opinions above are 100% my own.
That’s where Charlie comes in (real name Charlotte Nelson). She is a librarian who was recently on the outs with her boyfriend, Phillip. She does not want anything to do with cowboys or even anyone that wants to be a cowboy. That means that Davis is not her type by any means because he has always wanted to be a cowboy. She eventually becomes the role of Davis’ fiance so that she can go to dinner with him, his mother and Jim. It was supposed to be dinner, but then it turns into a whole weekend. I don’t want to say that this story is typical by any means that Charlie and Davis start to have feelings for one another, but isn’t this what you would want to read from this story? I scream yes. She still has a problem with Davis wanting to be a cowboy, but will it work out in the end? Read it for yourself and find out! I can not wait to read more in this series. Fast and fun read that I recommend highly.
I received this book to review through Beck Valley Books Book Tours, all the opinions above are 100% my own.
July 8, 2014
CHASING CHARLIE by Kathy Carmichael is a perfectly light, refreshing read for summer. It's great for an afternoon of reading on the beach or by the pool. I really enjoyed this fun, charming romance about Charlie and Davis. Charlie is a librarian in a Texas town who has fallen into a routine and is bored with the men she dates. She has practically resigned herself to settling into a "librarian" lifestyle. Her roommate advises her to step outside the box and live a little larger. Charlie accepts the advice and starts living larger with the purchase of a shape hugging, red dress that is very atypical for a librarian. The dress transforms Charlie into a knock-out and draws the attention of her most handsome library patron, Davis.
Davis, an accomplished businessman, frequents the library to research cowboys and ranching. He's ready to allow someone else to manage the family business so that he can pursue his dream of becoming a cowboy. Also, Davis would love for his widowed mother to accept the marriage proposal from her long-time companion who will be leaving the country soon. He knows his mother will never agree to the proposal and leave the country until she sees that Davis is settled. Davis devises a plan to find a temporary fiance' to show his mother that he is settled so that she can pursue her happiness. When Davis spots Charlie in the red dress, he knows she will be perfect for his scheme.
Charlie reluctantly agrees to Davis's plan and the two embark on a humorously staged romance that quickly becomes not such a farce after all! Problems abound, however, with Davis's reputation as a handsome, little-black-book owning, bachelor. Also, Charlie has a very strong dislike of cowboys. Throw Charlie's two over-protective brothers into the mix, and the combination makes a very good story.
CHASING CHARLIE is the first book I've ready by Kathy Carmichael and it definitely won't be the last. Luckily, this is only the first of her Texas Two-Step Series. I'm looking forward to more delightfully refreshing romantic reads by Carmichael.
Rating: 4.5
Heat Rating: Sweet
Reviewed by: Molly Waters
Courtesy of My Book Addiction and More
Davis, an accomplished businessman, frequents the library to research cowboys and ranching. He's ready to allow someone else to manage the family business so that he can pursue his dream of becoming a cowboy. Also, Davis would love for his widowed mother to accept the marriage proposal from her long-time companion who will be leaving the country soon. He knows his mother will never agree to the proposal and leave the country until she sees that Davis is settled. Davis devises a plan to find a temporary fiance' to show his mother that he is settled so that she can pursue her happiness. When Davis spots Charlie in the red dress, he knows she will be perfect for his scheme.
Charlie reluctantly agrees to Davis's plan and the two embark on a humorously staged romance that quickly becomes not such a farce after all! Problems abound, however, with Davis's reputation as a handsome, little-black-book owning, bachelor. Also, Charlie has a very strong dislike of cowboys. Throw Charlie's two over-protective brothers into the mix, and the combination makes a very good story.
CHASING CHARLIE is the first book I've ready by Kathy Carmichael and it definitely won't be the last. Luckily, this is only the first of her Texas Two-Step Series. I'm looking forward to more delightfully refreshing romantic reads by Carmichael.
Rating: 4.5
Heat Rating: Sweet
Reviewed by: Molly Waters
Courtesy of My Book Addiction and More
June 13, 2014
CHASING CHARLIE (THE TEXAS TWO--STEP SERIES) by Kathy Charmicael is a good romantic comedy based in Southern Texas. The description of the Southern Texas city life versus life on a large cattle ranch. The story is about a young successful business man Davis Murphy. Who has stepped up to take over the family title business "Murphy Title" when his dad dies. He has built the business to the point that he can hire a CEO to run the company so he can pursue his dream of running a ranch raising horses.
Carmichael protagonist is Charlotte Nelson a librarian in the researcher department of the town library. She is the youngest member of the Nelson Family, who are successful ranchers and are celebrities on the rodeo circuit. Charlotte striving to be on her own and not rely on her brother celebrity status or part of the Nelson ranch. Charlotte is against anything cowboy.
After Carmichael introduces the main players, her story picks up momentum based around Davis whose goal to own a ranch. Charlotte is determined to not date a cowboy, and she wants live in the city. Davis set on life on a ranch has to go through to get his mother to accept a marriage proposal from her longtime boyfriend. She doesn't want to leave her son alone.
Now you know the theme and the main goal of the story. No spoilers will come from me. To find how everything turns out you will have to read Carmichael's story. I will guarantee the story has humor and romance. You will enjoy how the main characters learn the art of give and take. The magic of a red dress and shoes that match. Conspiracy of people and a great ending. You can read this story and just enjoy how everyone takes part in the fun. This story earned the 4 stars, and I recommend this book a must read.
Carmichael protagonist is Charlotte Nelson a librarian in the researcher department of the town library. She is the youngest member of the Nelson Family, who are successful ranchers and are celebrities on the rodeo circuit. Charlotte striving to be on her own and not rely on her brother celebrity status or part of the Nelson ranch. Charlotte is against anything cowboy.
After Carmichael introduces the main players, her story picks up momentum based around Davis whose goal to own a ranch. Charlotte is determined to not date a cowboy, and she wants live in the city. Davis set on life on a ranch has to go through to get his mother to accept a marriage proposal from her longtime boyfriend. She doesn't want to leave her son alone.
Now you know the theme and the main goal of the story. No spoilers will come from me. To find how everything turns out you will have to read Carmichael's story. I will guarantee the story has humor and romance. You will enjoy how the main characters learn the art of give and take. The magic of a red dress and shoes that match. Conspiracy of people and a great ending. You can read this story and just enjoy how everyone takes part in the fun. This story earned the 4 stars, and I recommend this book a must read.
July 1, 2014
The Writing
Kathy Carmichael is a gifted writer. That is the only thing you can say about an author who pulls you into a story line quickly and makes you feel like you know the characters. Her writing is skilled and adept, almost seducing the reader into the romance as much as the main character, Charlie, is seduced into facing her fear and plunging into love.
Is this a classic romance novel? Yes!! In the best ways possible - a couple you can root for and feel that euphoric stirring in your own heart; an issue of love you can definitely empathize with; and enough tension to make you forget that this book SHOULD have a happy ending.
The Story
Charlotte "Charlie" Nelson has chosen a career as a librarian to remove her as far as possible from the cowboy lifestyle of her brothers and her childhood. She is not interested in anything that has to do with that, and is adamant about that. Davis Murphy is an eligible bachelor and wanna be cowboy with no marriage plans and no girlfriend in sight. However, his mother won't marry her long time beau unless she knows that Davis is in a happy and stable relationship.
When their worlds collide, Charlie becomes Davis' beard, to convince his mom that he is fine, relationship wise, and she can marry the love of her life without concern for her sons well being. What starts out as a date arrangement turns into a love escapade.
What an amazing story line and real twists and turns for the involved parties!
The Final Call
Get this book. This is definitely beach worthy and summer worthy. It is also a good any day read! Put it on your list, or run over and buy it now. It's good reading!
I received this book free of charge in exchange for my honest review.
August 6, 2014
Such A Sweet Romance!
Disclosure: I received this book, Chasing Charlie By Kathy Carmichael, to review through Beck Valley Books Book Tours, all the opinions above are 100% my own.
Chasing Charlie is such a sweet romance! It isn't full of sex and raunchy scenes. Instead, it is a wholesome love story that is created from a very non-traditional proposition. And it's a very quick read. I read it in one sitting so it would be great to take to the Dr.'s office or when you travel!
Charlie is ready to break out of her shell a little at a time. She isn't opposed to falling in love but she knows exactly what type of man she DOESN'T want. Davis is bound and determined to remain a bachelor but also knows what type of woman he would look for if getting married. Luckily, he chooses a fake fiancee that would match his mother's tastes and that's what sets this romance in motion.
Naturally, you are going to have some story line where you already can predict what is going to happen. But unlike most romance novels that are nothing but "cat and mouse games", Kathy Carmichael has written "Chasing Charlie" so that the characters say what they feel pretty much as soon as they feel it. Sure, there's some chasing going on, but for the most part, Charlie and Davis are very up front with each other. I love that!
I think that both characters did a lot of growing in a short amount of time and I really love that their extended family members played a role in some of that. While the dialogue was mainly Davis and Charlie, we still got input from his mom and her fiancee as well as Charlie's brothers and best friend. I can't wait to read the rest of this series and see where the stories take us!
Disclosure: I received this book, Chasing Charlie By Kathy Carmichael, to review through Beck Valley Books Book Tours, all the opinions above are 100% my own.
Chasing Charlie is such a sweet romance! It isn't full of sex and raunchy scenes. Instead, it is a wholesome love story that is created from a very non-traditional proposition. And it's a very quick read. I read it in one sitting so it would be great to take to the Dr.'s office or when you travel!
Charlie is ready to break out of her shell a little at a time. She isn't opposed to falling in love but she knows exactly what type of man she DOESN'T want. Davis is bound and determined to remain a bachelor but also knows what type of woman he would look for if getting married. Luckily, he chooses a fake fiancee that would match his mother's tastes and that's what sets this romance in motion.
Naturally, you are going to have some story line where you already can predict what is going to happen. But unlike most romance novels that are nothing but "cat and mouse games", Kathy Carmichael has written "Chasing Charlie" so that the characters say what they feel pretty much as soon as they feel it. Sure, there's some chasing going on, but for the most part, Charlie and Davis are very up front with each other. I love that!
I think that both characters did a lot of growing in a short amount of time and I really love that their extended family members played a role in some of that. While the dialogue was mainly Davis and Charlie, we still got input from his mom and her fiancee as well as Charlie's brothers and best friend. I can't wait to read the rest of this series and see where the stories take us!
July 9, 2014
What a fun and cute book this is. It would really be perfect for a day at the beach--a quick read too!
When Davis, a confirmed bachelor, realizes that the only reason his Mom is not marrying the love of her life because he would be left alone he knows he has to do something. Not actually get married, heaven forbid, but a fake fiancee might calm his Mom down so she would not worry about him any longer and finally accept her long time friends marriage proposal. Besides he wants to become a cowboy and buy a ranch. He had to take over his Dad's business when he died and has never enjoyed the work.
Charlie, a shy, unassuming librarian who was brought up on a ranch by her two older brother cowboys after their parents died in a car accident when she was very young has sworn she will never marry a cowboy. When David finally realizes that she would be perfect as a fake fiancee and she agrees is where all the fun begins!
I can't tell you anymore or I will give it all away--but since this is the first in a series-I will tell you I will be grabbing the next ones as soon as they hit the shelves!Chasing Charlie
When Davis, a confirmed bachelor, realizes that the only reason his Mom is not marrying the love of her life because he would be left alone he knows he has to do something. Not actually get married, heaven forbid, but a fake fiancee might calm his Mom down so she would not worry about him any longer and finally accept her long time friends marriage proposal. Besides he wants to become a cowboy and buy a ranch. He had to take over his Dad's business when he died and has never enjoyed the work.
Charlie, a shy, unassuming librarian who was brought up on a ranch by her two older brother cowboys after their parents died in a car accident when she was very young has sworn she will never marry a cowboy. When David finally realizes that she would be perfect as a fake fiancee and she agrees is where all the fun begins!
I can't tell you anymore or I will give it all away--but since this is the first in a series-I will tell you I will be grabbing the next ones as soon as they hit the shelves!Chasing Charlie
July 28, 2014
I received this book to review through Beck Valley Books Book Tours, all the opinions above are 100% my own.
I did not want to put this one down! It was very fast and extremely funny and cute!
Bad things always come with little red dresses, or really really good things as Charlie finds out.
I really liked both of the characters. Charlie is very smart and funny but she has one rule. Never to get involved with a cowboy. But she can't help but fall more and more for Davis who wants to be a cowboy. Davis was kind of childish at first but I warmed up to him really quickly. He was pretty much a ladies man and just wanted to use Charlie to basically pretend to be his fiancée so his mom would be able to move on and be happy. But things never go as planned.
Everyone could see that they were perfect for each other but them.They were completely adorable together. The banter and chemistry between them was a lot of fun. I couldn't help but root for them and want them to see how much they belonged together.
I really liked the authors writing style. It was very fast and fun. I look forward to reading more from her.
I did not want to put this one down! It was very fast and extremely funny and cute!
Bad things always come with little red dresses, or really really good things as Charlie finds out.
I really liked both of the characters. Charlie is very smart and funny but she has one rule. Never to get involved with a cowboy. But she can't help but fall more and more for Davis who wants to be a cowboy. Davis was kind of childish at first but I warmed up to him really quickly. He was pretty much a ladies man and just wanted to use Charlie to basically pretend to be his fiancée so his mom would be able to move on and be happy. But things never go as planned.
Everyone could see that they were perfect for each other but them.They were completely adorable together. The banter and chemistry between them was a lot of fun. I couldn't help but root for them and want them to see how much they belonged together.
I really liked the authors writing style. It was very fast and fun. I look forward to reading more from her.
December 8, 2015
When you combine two very strong personalities, who each think they have a life plan, add in some family dynamics, (aren't they all dysfunctional?) and try to plan a last minute wedding, you can not help but result in a humorous read.
Charlie thinks she needs to take some small risks to liven up her boring life. Her life plan is about predictability without risk. Davis has taken the responsible road and wants to experience adventure and adrenaline while pursuing his dream. All he has left to do is convince his mother to marry the man of her dreams. To that end, he has to convince her she is not deserting him.
A plan is hatched. Without really understanding how, Charlie finds herself smack in the center of it.
Davis could choose any woman he desired. Why her? I laughed at the references where Charlie was his mother's typie and Davis was proposing to her brothers. It seemed so true.
With well developed characters I was drawn to and a nicely paced plot, this was a fun read.
I did receive this book for my honest review without compensation.
Charlie thinks she needs to take some small risks to liven up her boring life. Her life plan is about predictability without risk. Davis has taken the responsible road and wants to experience adventure and adrenaline while pursuing his dream. All he has left to do is convince his mother to marry the man of her dreams. To that end, he has to convince her she is not deserting him.
A plan is hatched. Without really understanding how, Charlie finds herself smack in the center of it.
Davis could choose any woman he desired. Why her? I laughed at the references where Charlie was his mother's typie and Davis was proposing to her brothers. It seemed so true.
With well developed characters I was drawn to and a nicely paced plot, this was a fun read.
I did receive this book for my honest review without compensation.
July 18, 2014
This was a very sweet book. I really enjoyed reading it. Charlie is a wonderfully headstrong women who thinks she knows what she wants, but one simple change, well changes everything! Her quite librarian life is suddenly thrown off course as want to be cowboy Davis shows up wanting her to pretend to be his fiancée so his mom will get married. Of course she had no clue that saying yes to a not so simple request would end up changing her life and view.
Davis is just as headstrong as Charlie and even though he approaches Charlie to start this wonderful fake relationship, he slowly starts to have his head turned, but as usual neither character will admit that there truly is more there, then what they would ever have thought!
This is a wonderful book for anyone who is a lover of modern, yet still very western romance. It’s a sweet, yet fun story that will take you to a place that many people never get to see.
Davis is just as headstrong as Charlie and even though he approaches Charlie to start this wonderful fake relationship, he slowly starts to have his head turned, but as usual neither character will admit that there truly is more there, then what they would ever have thought!
This is a wonderful book for anyone who is a lover of modern, yet still very western romance. It’s a sweet, yet fun story that will take you to a place that many people never get to see.
August 11, 2016
If you have a couple of hours free and are looking for a light, funny, quick read then look no further. Chasing Charlie by Kathy Carmichael moves quickly in both the pace of the book and the romance department.
Charlie is the librarian looking to spice up her life with a new dress. That dress seems to make men (a man) fall all over himself. Actually, not so much but once she buys the dress Davis walks into her life. It’s a whirlwind from then on. Pretending to be engaged so his mom will move on with her love life, Charlie and Davis find romance in the unlikely of places. Each other.
Chasing Charlie is sweet, sassy and clever. There isn’t any heat is this book, just pure romance. I’d actually like to read the rest of the series. I was pleasantly surprised with how much I liked this quick read. The characters were easy to relate to and I really enjoyed Davis’s Mom Ellen’s character.
Charlie is the librarian looking to spice up her life with a new dress. That dress seems to make men (a man) fall all over himself. Actually, not so much but once she buys the dress Davis walks into her life. It’s a whirlwind from then on. Pretending to be engaged so his mom will move on with her love life, Charlie and Davis find romance in the unlikely of places. Each other.
Chasing Charlie is sweet, sassy and clever. There isn’t any heat is this book, just pure romance. I’d actually like to read the rest of the series. I was pleasantly surprised with how much I liked this quick read. The characters were easy to relate to and I really enjoyed Davis’s Mom Ellen’s character.
July 14, 2014
This was a quick, easy read. I started it late in the afternoon and had it finished before I went to bed the same day. It was a combination of being a shorter read and a good book that I didn’t want to walk away from.
Chasing Charlie was predictable to the past few romance books I have read. A hot hunk, not looking for love who is taken by surprise. What wasn’t predictable was everything else that happens!
Davis is a wannabe cowboy, rancher, rodeo competitor who is currently working in titles. He is hunky and full of himself.
Charlie is your down to earth, shy, librarian who doesn’t have confidence or know her beauty.
How these two end up and the journey they take together is one that will keep you turning the pages to see what happens next.
It was definitely a cute read that I thoroughly enjoyed!
Chasing Charlie was predictable to the past few romance books I have read. A hot hunk, not looking for love who is taken by surprise. What wasn’t predictable was everything else that happens!
Davis is a wannabe cowboy, rancher, rodeo competitor who is currently working in titles. He is hunky and full of himself.
Charlie is your down to earth, shy, librarian who doesn’t have confidence or know her beauty.
How these two end up and the journey they take together is one that will keep you turning the pages to see what happens next.
It was definitely a cute read that I thoroughly enjoyed!
August 2, 2014
It definitely did not take long to get engrossed in the plot of this charming book. Humorous, unconventional, and kept me in high spirits long after finished. I loved that the characters were not at all complex with rich history that had me excited about learning the whole story. Carmichael effectively created this book with unforgettable characters, a rich setting and numerous subplots that put this novel at a whole new level!
It is rare that I pursue Western reads, however after this story I want to grab a copy of all of the books in this series to consume them. I applaud the fact that I was cheering for Davis and Charlie, hoping that they would have the lifelong true love between them. These are authentic, easy-going characters who truly appreciate the things that matter. Can’t wait to experience the rest of Carmichael’s books!
~The Book Stalker Reviewed
It is rare that I pursue Western reads, however after this story I want to grab a copy of all of the books in this series to consume them. I applaud the fact that I was cheering for Davis and Charlie, hoping that they would have the lifelong true love between them. These are authentic, easy-going characters who truly appreciate the things that matter. Can’t wait to experience the rest of Carmichael’s books!
~The Book Stalker Reviewed
dnf
April 9, 2015I can't write a real review because I DNF'd this. I knew it wasn't for me when the "hero" during our first scene with him was talking to a family friend while he picked out 6 identical Valentines presents for his 6 girlfriends. He's a cowboy wannabe, they call him the "Rhinestone Cowboy" and he comes of like a tool. He was buying these "girlfriends" chocolate cowboy hats with popcorn balls in them. He came off as cheesy and I decided that I wasn't interested in a book with him as a hero.
Also, the librarian main character supposedly feels scandalized with herself for wanting to buy a red flattering dress. Say what? It seemed like such a cliche that on top of the lacking hero I decided this book wasn't for me.
I was sick when I read this and I think I was crankier than usual thus leading to the DNF.
Also, the librarian main character supposedly feels scandalized with herself for wanting to buy a red flattering dress. Say what? It seemed like such a cliche that on top of the lacking hero I decided this book wasn't for me.
I was sick when I read this and I think I was crankier than usual thus leading to the DNF.
May 14, 2015
Cute romance with the ‘fake engagement’ scenario. I’ve read a ton of these books and always wonder who in real life would ever stoop to a fake engagement for any reason. But with that said, this story was fun to read and not annoying as most of the other stories in this genre are. Charlotte (Charlie) is a cute librarian who buys a red dress at the beginning of the story to try to step out of her non-risk-taking shell. What happens after she buys that dress will make you laugh. She’s a super cute character with a lot of depth that surprised me. The hero is handsome and dashing and fun. I also loved that it was clean, with no sex scenes or swear words, but enough romantic interest and spark to keep you smiling. Even if you’ve read fake engagement stories before, this one’s worth adding to the list. It’s well done.
July 14, 2014
This book is a wonderfully light, quick, and satisfying read. Charlie is a sweet librarian who is stuck in a rut and trying to spice up her life (but only a little). Davis has his heart and mind set on being a cowboy instead of a successful businessman, but first he wants to see his mom happily married to the man of her dreams. But she won't marry until Davis is settled.
When Davis approaches Charlie to be his fake fiancé for one night, the ball starts rolling, and hilarity (and romance) ensues. But can they work out their differences?
This is a perfect summer read, light, fresh and fun. I can't wait for the next book in the series!
*I received this book to review through Beck Valley Books Book Tours, all the opinions above are 100% my own.
When Davis approaches Charlie to be his fake fiancé for one night, the ball starts rolling, and hilarity (and romance) ensues. But can they work out their differences?
This is a perfect summer read, light, fresh and fun. I can't wait for the next book in the series!
*I received this book to review through Beck Valley Books Book Tours, all the opinions above are 100% my own.
July 22, 2014
I can completely see this book made into a movie. It’s a total romantic comedy. (I’m a huge Sandra Bullock and Reese Witherspoon fan… this book could totally fit into their movie category.) I was amazed that as I was reading I kept thinking “this totally wouldn’t happen in real life” but the more I got into the story the more I absolutely loved it. The family relationships in the book may have been my favorite thing. The way Davis would do anything for his mother’s happiness. The way Charlie interacted with her 2 big brothers. Seeing how their family history really effected their logical ideas… but just couldn’t quite control their hearts. It was really a fun read, and I’m looking forward to reading the rest of Kathy Carmichael’s Texas Two-Step series.
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