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Midnight Cowboys #3
Midnight Heat
He needs to escape...
Justin Skaggs is on the road to anywhere—as long as it's far from home—when fate throws a kindred spirit across his path.
She needs to get to Oklahoma...
Phoenix Montagno can't believe her luck when she runs into the hottie from the bar. He's the key to her getting everything she's always wanted, but she can't tell him that. Luckily he's not interested in learning her story any more than he is in sharing his.
Both have secrets they don't want to share...
It's the perfect arrangement. No personal details. No talking at all. Just two strangers sharing the cab of a truck heading the direction they both need to go . . . until they decide to share a bed, too.
Justin Skaggs is on the road to anywhere—as long as it's far from home—when fate throws a kindred spirit across his path.
She needs to get to Oklahoma...
Phoenix Montagno can't believe her luck when she runs into the hottie from the bar. He's the key to her getting everything she's always wanted, but she can't tell him that. Luckily he's not interested in learning her story any more than he is in sharing his.
Both have secrets they don't want to share...
It's the perfect arrangement. No personal details. No talking at all. Just two strangers sharing the cab of a truck heading the direction they both need to go . . . until they decide to share a bed, too.
303 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published February 23, 2016
74 people are currently reading
572 people want to read
About the author
Cat Johnson
364 books1,764 followers📚Find Series Reading Order and Book Lists at Cat's site CatJohnson.net
🎥 For Film/TV Inquiries Email Cat@Catjohnson.net
It all started in first grade when Cat Johnson won the essay contest at Hawthorne Elementary School and got to ride in the Chief of Police's car in the Memorial Day Parade...and the rest, as they say, is history. As an adult, Cat generally tries to stay out of police cars and is thrilled to be writing for a living. She has been published under a different name in the Young Adult genre, but released her first romance in 2006.
Today, she is a NY Times & USA Today best-selling, award-winning author of contemporary romance. A promo ho, she's sponsored real live bull riding cowboys and promoted romance using bologna.
--from the author's website
🎥 For Film/TV Inquiries Email Cat@Catjohnson.net
It all started in first grade when Cat Johnson won the essay contest at Hawthorne Elementary School and got to ride in the Chief of Police's car in the Memorial Day Parade...and the rest, as they say, is history. As an adult, Cat generally tries to stay out of police cars and is thrilled to be writing for a living. She has been published under a different name in the Young Adult genre, but released her first romance in 2006.
Today, she is a NY Times & USA Today best-selling, award-winning author of contemporary romance. A promo ho, she's sponsored real live bull riding cowboys and promoted romance using bologna.
--from the author's website
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 99 reviews
June 9, 2016
4.5 - "I've wanted you since Texas." Stars!
I am a massive fan of the Midnight Cowboys series, the first two books offered up stellar romances with slightly different and very underused tropes. Although Cat Johnson went the more traditional route in the coupling and main trope themes with Midnight Heat it was good to finally get to know Justin Skaggs on a more intimate level!
I loved that Rohn and Bonnie (book two; Midnight Wrangler), played a pivotal part in the story between Justin and Phoenix as well, and that Colton and Tyler also figure into the plot as things progress. I think that is one of the main reasons this series has grabbed me to such an extent, as although each book focuses on a separate couple everyone else stories continue to play out in the background.
If two people could survive a road trip, normal dating would be a breeze.
This story is definitely a road trip with a difference, and I’ll be honest and say I thought I was going to struggle a little with Phoenix’s character at the start of the book, but I liked the way the author actually gave her more depth and maturity as she travelled with Justin to Oklahoma, and how the connection between them grew the more as she learned more about her past, and told Justin more about her reasons for looking up Bonnie Martin, in the first place.
Complicated didn’t even begin to describe this situation.
This is definitely a slow-burn romance, which has been the case with all the books in the series so far, but the story flows so well that it didn’t feel that way, the author does an outstanding job in building the attraction, and the tension simmers between Justin and Phoenix all through their journey. But their time has a definite expiration date due to Phoenix living and working in a different state, add to that the issues that Justin is dealing with in his family life and it just makes you root for them to get it together as a couple all the more.
"I’m going to be here for you… I promise. I’m too interested in this to abandon you."
I am really looking forward to seeing where the author takes the series, with Colton left to have his story told, I am a little sad because I hope that it isn’t the end, hopefully Cat will find another ranch in the vicinity full of hot single cowboys that she can pair off in future books.
ARC provided via Netgalley, and it was my absolute pleasure to provide the above honest review.
I am a massive fan of the Midnight Cowboys series, the first two books offered up stellar romances with slightly different and very underused tropes. Although Cat Johnson went the more traditional route in the coupling and main trope themes with Midnight Heat it was good to finally get to know Justin Skaggs on a more intimate level!
I loved that Rohn and Bonnie (book two; Midnight Wrangler), played a pivotal part in the story between Justin and Phoenix as well, and that Colton and Tyler also figure into the plot as things progress. I think that is one of the main reasons this series has grabbed me to such an extent, as although each book focuses on a separate couple everyone else stories continue to play out in the background.
If two people could survive a road trip, normal dating would be a breeze.
This story is definitely a road trip with a difference, and I’ll be honest and say I thought I was going to struggle a little with Phoenix’s character at the start of the book, but I liked the way the author actually gave her more depth and maturity as she travelled with Justin to Oklahoma, and how the connection between them grew the more as she learned more about her past, and told Justin more about her reasons for looking up Bonnie Martin, in the first place.
Complicated didn’t even begin to describe this situation.
This is definitely a slow-burn romance, which has been the case with all the books in the series so far, but the story flows so well that it didn’t feel that way, the author does an outstanding job in building the attraction, and the tension simmers between Justin and Phoenix all through their journey. But their time has a definite expiration date due to Phoenix living and working in a different state, add to that the issues that Justin is dealing with in his family life and it just makes you root for them to get it together as a couple all the more.
"I’m going to be here for you… I promise. I’m too interested in this to abandon you."
I am really looking forward to seeing where the author takes the series, with Colton left to have his story told, I am a little sad because I hope that it isn’t the end, hopefully Cat will find another ranch in the vicinity full of hot single cowboys that she can pair off in future books.
ARC provided via Netgalley, and it was my absolute pleasure to provide the above honest review.
February 22, 2016
• Midnight Cowboys #3
• standalone, but you should read the previous book, where we meet Justin and find out about a backstory that might be important for this book! ☺ ► Midnight Wrangler
California teacher Phoenix lost her birth certificate; she needs it to get a passport - to go on a trip to Aruba with a friend. Once the new certificate arrives, she accidentally finds out the name of her birth mother!
And off she goes to meet that woman in Arizona, without telling her parents and without even knowing if that woman is the right person!
But then first her car dies on her and instead of Bonnie Martin, she finds a sexy cowboy at the house.
The sexy cowboy is our Justin, of course.
We all remember him from the last book - he works at Rohn's ranch.
And when he's not working he's trying to keep his mom alive. She's been extremely depressed since his dad died ten years ago and then his brother died in Afghanistan two years ago.
Time for a little roadtrip to forget about things for a while.
Rohn offers him a bit of money to drive to Arizona to pick up his future mother-in-law's furniture from their old house. She moved back to Oklahoma to be closer to her daughter.
Instant attraction between Justin and Phoenix of course, but Justin doesn't have time for women and Phoenix should be concerned with bigger problems at the moment...
But somehow she talks him into taking her to Oklahoma with him....
WHAT WILL HAPPEN TO Phoenix & Justin???
WILL THE TWO OF THEM GET THEIR HEA???
WILL THERE BE A CLIFFHANGER??
I'm not telling you of course! ☺
═════════════════════════════════
I really loved this story!!
Justin is such an adorable guy!!!!
The way he takes care of his mom, works really hard and has no time for a girlfriend. He has to be strong for his mom, but he's still grieving for his brother too....Ugh, I just wanted to hug him!
And adorable Phoenix... she's so sweet and she's falling fast for our Cowboy - who thinks he won't ever be able to be enough for Phoenix - for as long as his mom still needs him.
I loved how Justin's book has this connection to Rohn's book! I loved seeing Rohn and Tyler again!
I think this is my favorite book in this Hot-Cowboy series!!!
Midnight Heat was a really adorable and moving Cowboy Road-trip Romance! You'll sooo want your own Justin after reading it!
Okeydokey - ready for the next hot cowboy now ☺☺☺ Colton maybe?!
February 22, 2016
4.5 stars
Midnight Heat was a great read, I enjoyed the storyline & the characters were likable, passionate, sweet and together they made my heart swoon.
Justin had a beautiful heart, I loved how much he cared and stressed over his mother.
He would put aside his own happiness & needs to help her his mother get through the day and never looking for an easy way out.
Phoenix was sweet, funny and passionate. I loved watching Phoenix and Justin relationship develop, they had amazing chemistry and they made a great couple.
While each book can be read as a standalone, I recommend you read Midnight Wrangler as the characters and storyline will hold more interest & meaning to you as a reader. I know for me I was happy with how everything played out and I couldn't be more happy for not only Justin & Phoenix but for Rohn & Bonnie as well :)
Midnight Heat was a heartwarming, sweet, and at times emotional read, loved it!
Looking forward to the next book, can't wait to see who Colton's love interest will be. I'm crossing my fingers it's Phoenix's BFF Kim. I can totally see these two fun characters hitting it off, I have no doubt their story will be a fun read :)
Thank you to Kensington Books - Zebra via NetGalley for the advance copy.
Midnight Heat was a great read, I enjoyed the storyline & the characters were likable, passionate, sweet and together they made my heart swoon.
Justin had a beautiful heart, I loved how much he cared and stressed over his mother.
He would put aside his own happiness & needs to help her his mother get through the day and never looking for an easy way out.
Phoenix was sweet, funny and passionate. I loved watching Phoenix and Justin relationship develop, they had amazing chemistry and they made a great couple.
While each book can be read as a standalone, I recommend you read Midnight Wrangler as the characters and storyline will hold more interest & meaning to you as a reader. I know for me I was happy with how everything played out and I couldn't be more happy for not only Justin & Phoenix but for Rohn & Bonnie as well :)
Midnight Heat was a heartwarming, sweet, and at times emotional read, loved it!
Looking forward to the next book, can't wait to see who Colton's love interest will be. I'm crossing my fingers it's Phoenix's BFF Kim. I can totally see these two fun characters hitting it off, I have no doubt their story will be a fun read :)
Thank you to Kensington Books - Zebra via NetGalley for the advance copy.
April 25, 2016
Justin Skaggs has been feeling adrift since his brother was killed in Afghanistan. He decides to move back home to Oklahoma help his heartbroken mom. On his way, Justin’s friend Rohn asked Justin to pick up his fiancée Bonnie’s thing from her place. But instead Justin encountered
Phoenix Montagno, a first grade teacher.
Phoenix was in search of her biological mother and a letter with an address led her to Bonnie’s house. Phoenix decided to travel with Justin in her question to locate her biological mother.
The journey allowed Phoenix and Justin to bond and explore their attraction. Their chemistry was definitely tangible and it was a really pleasurable read.
I do wish I had read books 1 & 2 as it would have laid a better foundation for these two characters as well as the world. Regardless, Justin was a great character. He was a caring and loyal son. Phoenix was a sweet, but scatterbrained lady who was still really likable.
The ending wasn’t as definitive as I would have liked but this book was enjoyable enough that I want to read more from this author. I felt good after reading this book and I credit the author’s writing style for that. The writing flowed and plot was entertaining. I look forward to the next book.
Special Thanks to Kensington Book via Netgalley for the advance reading copy given in exchange for an honest review.
Phoenix Montagno, a first grade teacher.
Phoenix was in search of her biological mother and a letter with an address led her to Bonnie’s house. Phoenix decided to travel with Justin in her question to locate her biological mother.
The journey allowed Phoenix and Justin to bond and explore their attraction. Their chemistry was definitely tangible and it was a really pleasurable read.
I do wish I had read books 1 & 2 as it would have laid a better foundation for these two characters as well as the world. Regardless, Justin was a great character. He was a caring and loyal son. Phoenix was a sweet, but scatterbrained lady who was still really likable.
The ending wasn’t as definitive as I would have liked but this book was enjoyable enough that I want to read more from this author. I felt good after reading this book and I credit the author’s writing style for that. The writing flowed and plot was entertaining. I look forward to the next book.
Special Thanks to Kensington Book via Netgalley for the advance reading copy given in exchange for an honest review.
July 1, 2017
1. Not much to say about this one; it's a slow burn (sloooow burn) romance with little chemistry between two somewhat likeable characters. For most of the book, Justin is a mopey, depressed, boring guy and Phoenix is a nice-enough, boring girl. The story is pretty much a continuation of Book 2 (Midnight Wrangler) - which was also a slow burn, somewhat boring read.
2. The main conflict was a big one: adopted Phoenix was looking for her birth mother and had not told her parents she was travelling to Oklahoma to meet birth mother. This was resolved in one chapter in such a tidy, happy, neat package that I couldn't believe it. That was a real let down there - and I hate angst - because we had to suffer for over half the book through that plot and that is all we got as the outcome?
The same goes with Justin's mom's issues; one moment she's the albatross around his neck holding him back in life and the next, she's ... better.
3. The HEA was very realistic which I appreciated. There was no proposal or life-long promise after such a short reunion which was refreshing in HEA-land.
2. The main conflict was a big one: adopted Phoenix was looking for her birth mother and had not told her parents she was travelling to Oklahoma to meet birth mother. This was resolved in one chapter in such a tidy, happy, neat package that I couldn't believe it. That was a real let down there - and I hate angst - because we had to suffer for over half the book through that plot and that is all we got as the outcome?
The same goes with Justin's mom's issues; one moment she's the albatross around his neck holding him back in life and the next, she's ... better.
3. The HEA was very realistic which I appreciated. There was no proposal or life-long promise after such a short reunion which was refreshing in HEA-land.
March 1, 2016
Slick's review posted at Guilty Pleasures Book Reviews
4.5 stars
There was much I loved about Midnight Heat by Cat Johnson including the absolute freaky way that the hero and heroine met, the secrets they both held on to so tightly, the way they came together and the way they were able to move past the mistakes they made to find their happy place in life. Sometimes a relationship happens in a moment and sometimes it takes time, distance, perspective and some really good advice from an unusual source to make you realize that love is work and getting to that happily ever after isn't always easy.
Since the beginning of this series I've always liked Justin Skaggs, the young ranch hand who seemed to have a good head on his shoulders, always offered good advice, but had a lingering sadness about him and in this book we find out all about Justin's background and the complicated life he leads. When Justin lets his boss Rohn Lerner know he needs some time off to clear his head his boss makes him an offer he can't refuse, he just doesn't realize that along the way he's going to meet Phoenix Montagno a woman who will change more than just his life.
There is so much I want to say about this story but I can't because I refuse to spoil it for anyone, so I will say that Justin and Phoenix meet in an unusual way and he ends up helping her find someone she is desperate to find. Along the way they become friends and lovers, but their lives are more entwined than they ever imagined and with her living in California and him in Oklahoma they seem doomed from the start.
This wasn't an easy romance and there wasn't a fast fix to their problem, but along the way they both began to realize everything they wanted from life and each other and found a way to work towards that goal. My one big complaint about this book is that it seemed to end rather abruptly and I would have greatly appreciated an epilogue, however I feel certain Ms. Johnson will give us a glimpse of them in an upcoming book but I'm greedy and wanted that glimpse now.
Midnight Heat was complex, highly entertaining and sexy, but it also had a lot of heart making it a damn fine romance!
Review copy provided for an honest review.
4.5 stars
There was much I loved about Midnight Heat by Cat Johnson including the absolute freaky way that the hero and heroine met, the secrets they both held on to so tightly, the way they came together and the way they were able to move past the mistakes they made to find their happy place in life. Sometimes a relationship happens in a moment and sometimes it takes time, distance, perspective and some really good advice from an unusual source to make you realize that love is work and getting to that happily ever after isn't always easy.
Since the beginning of this series I've always liked Justin Skaggs, the young ranch hand who seemed to have a good head on his shoulders, always offered good advice, but had a lingering sadness about him and in this book we find out all about Justin's background and the complicated life he leads. When Justin lets his boss Rohn Lerner know he needs some time off to clear his head his boss makes him an offer he can't refuse, he just doesn't realize that along the way he's going to meet Phoenix Montagno a woman who will change more than just his life.
There is so much I want to say about this story but I can't because I refuse to spoil it for anyone, so I will say that Justin and Phoenix meet in an unusual way and he ends up helping her find someone she is desperate to find. Along the way they become friends and lovers, but their lives are more entwined than they ever imagined and with her living in California and him in Oklahoma they seem doomed from the start.
This wasn't an easy romance and there wasn't a fast fix to their problem, but along the way they both began to realize everything they wanted from life and each other and found a way to work towards that goal. My one big complaint about this book is that it seemed to end rather abruptly and I would have greatly appreciated an epilogue, however I feel certain Ms. Johnson will give us a glimpse of them in an upcoming book but I'm greedy and wanted that glimpse now.
Midnight Heat was complex, highly entertaining and sexy, but it also had a lot of heart making it a damn fine romance!
Review copy provided for an honest review.
March 5, 2016
I read and liked the first book. Skimmed the second book. And read this one. So...I liked this book on the whole. I like that all of the characters in this series are not alpha males who own their own mega ranches. The two I read are hired hands who work for the guy in the second book. Justin, the hero here, lives with his mother to help her through the grief from loss of her husband and her older son. I like a nice guy with nice manners living an ordinary life. The book was mainly told from his POV but I did like the heroine too even though she was less well developed. I had some problems with a few things. For example we've waited for the heroine, Phoenix, to meet her birth mother and while that is briefly shown, the fact that Rohn, the ranch owner, is her father is not shown in her POV. And is only shown very briefly in Justin's. That's a big fail for me since it would really have been a good scene and shown more character development for her. Not really a spoiler since it's obvious from the first even if you haven't read the 2nd book where is it discussed. This was not the only instance where a scene felt left out.
This story ends with a Happy for Now or Happy So Far. If I thought that I would get more of their story in the next book from their own POVs I might be a little happier but judging from the three books in the series so far that will not be the case. If a series is going to focus on a different pair of lovers in each one then I want a solid HEA for the main couple in their own book. Secondary couples can have a continuing story until their own book. While the way this was written might be realistic, it's not really what I prefer to read when I read romance.
This story ends with a Happy for Now or Happy So Far. If I thought that I would get more of their story in the next book from their own POVs I might be a little happier but judging from the three books in the series so far that will not be the case. If a series is going to focus on a different pair of lovers in each one then I want a solid HEA for the main couple in their own book. Secondary couples can have a continuing story until their own book. While the way this was written might be realistic, it's not really what I prefer to read when I read romance.
February 25, 2016
The author leaves us with a happy for now ending but I'm hopeful that the next book in this series will include more about Phoenix and Justin. I could have read more about this couple.
The story picks up where Midnight Cowboy ends. Its crucial that you read Midnight Cowboy before reading Midnight Heat. I thought the author did a brilliant job weaving these two stories together.
Phoenix and Justin's relationship started as platonic but you could feel a spark between the couple immediately. Justin was there to help this damsel in distress . He showed what a gentleman he was with her and also his mom. He was sweet but knew how to turn up the heat with Phoenix.
I liked her perseverance. She was on a mission and she didn't let anyone get in her way. It was refreshing that she didn't waiver from what she wanted.
Looking forward to the next book in the series.
I was given an ARC through NetGalley for a honest review
The story picks up where Midnight Cowboy ends. Its crucial that you read Midnight Cowboy before reading Midnight Heat. I thought the author did a brilliant job weaving these two stories together.
Phoenix and Justin's relationship started as platonic but you could feel a spark between the couple immediately. Justin was there to help this damsel in distress . He showed what a gentleman he was with her and also his mom. He was sweet but knew how to turn up the heat with Phoenix.
I liked her perseverance. She was on a mission and she didn't let anyone get in her way. It was refreshing that she didn't waiver from what she wanted.
Looking forward to the next book in the series.
I was given an ARC through NetGalley for a honest review
October 3, 2025
So glad to see Justin finding happiness with a lady. With all the awful things life has dumped on him he deserves to get out from under his mother’s depression and live a little. He’s so kind and thoughtful it’s hard not to feel for him.
Phoenix is a bit of a spaz. Taking off on a road trip with no idea if she’s going to the right place in a used car that she has no aptitude to fix if something goes wrong is incredibly foolish. She hares off at the drop of a hat and is lucky she runs into Justin to help her.
The romance was a really slow burn but satisfying once they figured out what they wanted. Once again, Colton was really invasive and annoying. Justin showed superhuman patience in not knocking his and Tyler’s blocks off when they kept sticking their noses into his business in front of Rohan.
I hope the author plans at least one more book in the series so we can see Colton get his.
Phoenix is a bit of a spaz. Taking off on a road trip with no idea if she’s going to the right place in a used car that she has no aptitude to fix if something goes wrong is incredibly foolish. She hares off at the drop of a hat and is lucky she runs into Justin to help her.
The romance was a really slow burn but satisfying once they figured out what they wanted. Once again, Colton was really invasive and annoying. Justin showed superhuman patience in not knocking his and Tyler’s blocks off when they kept sticking their noses into his business in front of Rohan.
I hope the author plans at least one more book in the series so we can see Colton get his.
July 19, 2021
Tags: Road trip, adoption,
Romanticization of Oklahoma aside, it was a pretty straightforward adoption reconnection book with a light romance side dish. Fluffy Hallmark Channel movie style without any depth, but still had some solid writing.
Given Book 2, the heroine’s storyline wasnt very surprising. Unfortunately, the hero’s story carried more of the emotional weight with none of the follow through. He was caring for his mother who suffers from MDD and is unable to handle daily activities of living due to grief. It seems like the author ran out of steam in the second half. Anyone looking for realistic resolution of conflict wont find it here.
Otherwise, its a largely inoffensive quick read with perfectly nice characters that you can imagine befriending in real life.
Romanticization of Oklahoma aside, it was a pretty straightforward adoption reconnection book with a light romance side dish. Fluffy Hallmark Channel movie style without any depth, but still had some solid writing.
Given Book 2, the heroine’s storyline wasnt very surprising. Unfortunately, the hero’s story carried more of the emotional weight with none of the follow through. He was caring for his mother who suffers from MDD and is unable to handle daily activities of living due to grief. It seems like the author ran out of steam in the second half. Anyone looking for realistic resolution of conflict wont find it here.
Otherwise, its a largely inoffensive quick read with perfectly nice characters that you can imagine befriending in real life.
August 27, 2017
This is a pleasant, uncomplicated book. Phoenix finds out who her birth mother is due to a clerical error. She decides to drive from California to Phoenix to meet her, but on the outskirts of Phoenix the car breaks down. Since no one in these books has AAA, Phoenix is a little stuck. She makes it to her mother's house only to find Justin moving her mother's stuff to Oklahoma. Phoenix talks Justin into taking her back to Oklahoma so she can meet her mother.
Justin is taking care of his severely depressed mom. His brother died two years ago and neither he nor his mother have been handling it very well. Justin lives with his mother and tries to keep her safe and fed. Between that and his work on the ranch, he's basically working all his waking hours. Justin is desperate to help his mom back to herself and can't see how a relationship would fit in his life without taking him away from his mom.
All the characters were good. I didn't like the abrupt ending at all. It felt like a few chapters were missing. That's why Midnight Heat only got three stars.
Justin is taking care of his severely depressed mom. His brother died two years ago and neither he nor his mother have been handling it very well. Justin lives with his mother and tries to keep her safe and fed. Between that and his work on the ranch, he's basically working all his waking hours. Justin is desperate to help his mom back to herself and can't see how a relationship would fit in his life without taking him away from his mom.
All the characters were good. I didn't like the abrupt ending at all. It felt like a few chapters were missing. That's why Midnight Heat only got three stars.
August 26, 2017
In the word of my friend Nadia........... Meh !
January 20, 2016
In a last minute decision that is rushed due to school starting Phoenix decides to go to Arizona then on to Oklahoma to find out more on some information that is mistakenly given to her. Her haste has her on the side of the road in front of a dive bar with a broke down car and little car sense. Hoping that her car will “get better” she goes into the bar looking for some assistance. What she finds is the cowboy who will be her savior.
A long drive is what Justin was looking for when Rohn wrangles him into going to Phoenix to retrieve the remainder of Bonnie’s belonging from her home there that is about to go up for sale.
The stress at home is getting to be too much for Justin to deal with. He also isn’t handling his own emotions too well where the loss of his father and brother and how that affects his mother is concerned. The Skaggs household has been consumed by sorrow since his brother was killed in Afghanistan two years ago. Justin feels he needs to worry about providing for his mother. So he goes to work then home, his life is set on repeat from there.
There was a huge disappointment in Midnight Wrangler (for me) that is resolved here. I was overly pleased by this. Even with the connection and carry over from the previous book Midnight Heat still easily works as a stand-alone. It’s that thing though that kept me from getting interested in Travis and Phoenix’s romance until after Phoenix confronts her reason for going to Oklahoma. That all comes to a head after the midpoint. By that point in a book I am usually rooting for the couple and their happily ever after. The side thing going on should not be what is taking precedence for me.
The ending has me considering quitting this series. I’ll wait to see if the next book belongs to Kim and Colton before I make that decision. Kim is Phoenix’s best friend. I think Kim is going to be needed for Phoenix to leave California and put her in close proximity to Justin who is in Oklahoma. That’s right I got a happy for now, not a happily ever after feeling with this Midnight Cowboy book. Justin and Phoenix never even exchanged an “I love you.”
A long drive is what Justin was looking for when Rohn wrangles him into going to Phoenix to retrieve the remainder of Bonnie’s belonging from her home there that is about to go up for sale.
The stress at home is getting to be too much for Justin to deal with. He also isn’t handling his own emotions too well where the loss of his father and brother and how that affects his mother is concerned. The Skaggs household has been consumed by sorrow since his brother was killed in Afghanistan two years ago. Justin feels he needs to worry about providing for his mother. So he goes to work then home, his life is set on repeat from there.
There was a huge disappointment in Midnight Wrangler (for me) that is resolved here. I was overly pleased by this. Even with the connection and carry over from the previous book Midnight Heat still easily works as a stand-alone. It’s that thing though that kept me from getting interested in Travis and Phoenix’s romance until after Phoenix confronts her reason for going to Oklahoma. That all comes to a head after the midpoint. By that point in a book I am usually rooting for the couple and their happily ever after. The side thing going on should not be what is taking precedence for me.
The ending has me considering quitting this series. I’ll wait to see if the next book belongs to Kim and Colton before I make that decision. Kim is Phoenix’s best friend. I think Kim is going to be needed for Phoenix to leave California and put her in close proximity to Justin who is in Oklahoma. That’s right I got a happy for now, not a happily ever after feeling with this Midnight Cowboy book. Justin and Phoenix never even exchanged an “I love you.”
January 9, 2016
I have been waiting and waiting for this book and finally Justin!!! Okay so after the previous book you can pretty much guess who was going to be with Justin and I have to say I'm really pleased how Johnson ended up pulling off not only these two characters meeting but how well the story went.
If you haven't read the first two book I have to suggest that you do because while this could be read as a standalone the previous book gives you the set up for this book. With that being said...
As I said this story is about Justin and Phoenix. Justin lost his brother 2 years ago and he is dealing with a depressed mother. Sometimes he needs to just be alone and get himself together so he asks his boss for a few days off but then is asked to pick up his boss's fiancé stuff in Arizona. He takes it because it will finally give him a chance to think and be alone.
Phoenix is getting ready for her students to come back but is also planning a trip to Aruba but before that she needs a passport and in order to do that she needs to locate her birth certificate. She requests for a duplicate and it looks like someone in the department messed up because this one names her birth mother. After thinking about it Phoenix decides for some answers but some unexpected twists are coming up.
One thing I love about this series is the characters. They are all so different but they all just get along. Each couple has gone through different and difficult times that makes them seem more real.
Justin and Phoenix are total strangers but it's like they were meant to be. One thing leads to them meeting and to Phoenix getting closer to finding out who her parents are. I loved the road trip part and how they started to get to know one another without trying to give away details of their personal lives.
Overall I was pleased with how the story wrapped up and I am looking forward to reading about Colton.
If you haven't read the first two book I have to suggest that you do because while this could be read as a standalone the previous book gives you the set up for this book. With that being said...
As I said this story is about Justin and Phoenix. Justin lost his brother 2 years ago and he is dealing with a depressed mother. Sometimes he needs to just be alone and get himself together so he asks his boss for a few days off but then is asked to pick up his boss's fiancé stuff in Arizona. He takes it because it will finally give him a chance to think and be alone.
Phoenix is getting ready for her students to come back but is also planning a trip to Aruba but before that she needs a passport and in order to do that she needs to locate her birth certificate. She requests for a duplicate and it looks like someone in the department messed up because this one names her birth mother. After thinking about it Phoenix decides for some answers but some unexpected twists are coming up.
One thing I love about this series is the characters. They are all so different but they all just get along. Each couple has gone through different and difficult times that makes them seem more real.
Justin and Phoenix are total strangers but it's like they were meant to be. One thing leads to them meeting and to Phoenix getting closer to finding out who her parents are. I loved the road trip part and how they started to get to know one another without trying to give away details of their personal lives.
Overall I was pleased with how the story wrapped up and I am looking forward to reading about Colton.
July 3, 2016
So this story was a slow burn and build up, but not with a lot of sexual tension, just flashes. That isn't a bad thing, because you really got to see the development of the characters together as a couple. They became friends, and it wasn't driven by their lust, it was ruled by them actually getting to know and like each other. Then, every once in a while, both of them had a flash of attraction to the other, but it simmered with them, rather than dictated them
It needed to be that way because our characters were dealing with some pretty big issues and anything else would have soaked the story in too many emotions. Phoenix was tracking down her birth mother while hiding that from her adoptive parents. Justin had a mother suffering so deeply from grief she has been suffering for years with no improvement. Justin himself still has PTSD from his own grief and handling his mother
Phoenix and Justin find relief with each other, it blocks out the real world and they find comfort, happiness and an ability to be true to their feelings. While Phoenix eventually shares with Justin what she is going through, he decides it is too much and he is too messed up, to share with her.
Things work out in the end, and they are both committed to working things out, It isn't tied up all neat and tidy, but then again, what relationship is? They want to try and work things out, and are committed to doing that long distance. It may seem like an abrupt ending but it fits with our characters. They have lots to work through on a personal level, and decisions for the same, to be able to close everything up nice and neat at this point
It needed to be that way because our characters were dealing with some pretty big issues and anything else would have soaked the story in too many emotions. Phoenix was tracking down her birth mother while hiding that from her adoptive parents. Justin had a mother suffering so deeply from grief she has been suffering for years with no improvement. Justin himself still has PTSD from his own grief and handling his mother
Phoenix and Justin find relief with each other, it blocks out the real world and they find comfort, happiness and an ability to be true to their feelings. While Phoenix eventually shares with Justin what she is going through, he decides it is too much and he is too messed up, to share with her.
Things work out in the end, and they are both committed to working things out, It isn't tied up all neat and tidy, but then again, what relationship is? They want to try and work things out, and are committed to doing that long distance. It may seem like an abrupt ending but it fits with our characters. They have lots to work through on a personal level, and decisions for the same, to be able to close everything up nice and neat at this point
March 8, 2016
~~I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads ~~
4.5* sizzling stars
Having read and enjoyed the first two books, I was interested to see where the story would go next - and this was a REALLY good direction to take! Do read the previous two before you come to this one, as it makes a big difference to know the background - or at least read book 2, as that is important to the plot. I am going to assume that you have in this review.
Given how we left things in book 2, I was so happy with how this story played out. It created a resolution for each of the lead characters on their own, as a couple, and for another couple entirely ... and along the way we get a wonderful unfolding of lust, love, deep emotions following loss and discovery. It works so well as a plot, that I couldn't stop reading until I was sure that all was well. I should of course have trusted Ms Johnson, but as I could see some obvious resolution, I wasn't sure if we could be given everything. And to add to the fun, we have a clear steer on the next story in the series, and I can't wait to see how that pans out! Colton is a man with a fire at his tail when it comes to even thinking about anything serious...
My favourite of the series so far.
4.5* sizzling stars
Having read and enjoyed the first two books, I was interested to see where the story would go next - and this was a REALLY good direction to take! Do read the previous two before you come to this one, as it makes a big difference to know the background - or at least read book 2, as that is important to the plot. I am going to assume that you have in this review.
Given how we left things in book 2, I was so happy with how this story played out. It created a resolution for each of the lead characters on their own, as a couple, and for another couple entirely ... and along the way we get a wonderful unfolding of lust, love, deep emotions following loss and discovery. It works so well as a plot, that I couldn't stop reading until I was sure that all was well. I should of course have trusted Ms Johnson, but as I could see some obvious resolution, I wasn't sure if we could be given everything. And to add to the fun, we have a clear steer on the next story in the series, and I can't wait to see how that pans out! Colton is a man with a fire at his tail when it comes to even thinking about anything serious...
My favourite of the series so far.
March 17, 2016
4.5 star
I was pulled right into this story. The story has laughs, secrets, grief, depression, and heartbreak.
If you have not already read the below I recommend reading them first:
Midnight Ride (Midnight Cowboys #1)
Midnight Wrangler (Midnight Cowboys #2)
This is Phoenix and Justin’s story. With the anniversary of his brother’s death coming up Justin needs to get away for a while. His boss gives him a chance at a road trip to clear his mind. While on the road he meets Phoenix. Phoenix is on a mission to see Justin’s boss’s girlfriend. After her car breaks down Justin agrees to drive back home with him. She is keeping secrets but they have to travel for a few days so he has time to get the secrets from her. When the secrets come out will he be surprised or will he have figured it out? Can Justin trust that the secret will not hurt the people he cares about? Can he keep quiet so Phoenix can tell the secrets herself? How will everyone feel when the secret comes out? When Justin’s mother needs him will he push Phoenix away in order to take care of his mother? Can Phoenix have Justin forever or is it all over?
I loved these characters and also the side characters. I felt I was able to connect with the characters and the story was a great read.
I highly recommend this book and can’t wait for the next story from this author.
I was pulled right into this story. The story has laughs, secrets, grief, depression, and heartbreak.
If you have not already read the below I recommend reading them first:
Midnight Ride (Midnight Cowboys #1)
Midnight Wrangler (Midnight Cowboys #2)
This is Phoenix and Justin’s story. With the anniversary of his brother’s death coming up Justin needs to get away for a while. His boss gives him a chance at a road trip to clear his mind. While on the road he meets Phoenix. Phoenix is on a mission to see Justin’s boss’s girlfriend. After her car breaks down Justin agrees to drive back home with him. She is keeping secrets but they have to travel for a few days so he has time to get the secrets from her. When the secrets come out will he be surprised or will he have figured it out? Can Justin trust that the secret will not hurt the people he cares about? Can he keep quiet so Phoenix can tell the secrets herself? How will everyone feel when the secret comes out? When Justin’s mother needs him will he push Phoenix away in order to take care of his mother? Can Phoenix have Justin forever or is it all over?
I loved these characters and also the side characters. I felt I was able to connect with the characters and the story was a great read.
I highly recommend this book and can’t wait for the next story from this author.
March 11, 2016
The first portion of this story, a good 25% of it deal with how Justin and Phoenix meet at a house in Arizona when he lives in Oklahoma and she lives in California.
Due to the time spent separately, the story feels a little rushed, which on one hand makes sense as they are only together for 2 days, but on the other makes it difficult to be totally invested in the relationship they are building. The author handles this in what feels like a realistic way and ends the story on a "Happily for Now" instead of a HEA...and this both works and feels a little unsatisfying at the same time. The story is part of a series and my guess is that their relationship will continue to play out it the other books in the series, but it is less satisfying when a character in one books gets their HEA in another.
The book was well written, and the characters seemed real with reactions and responses that were realistic. It is definitely worth a read, especially if you are looking for a romance that actually feels a little more "real" than some others.
***Free Copy provided by NetGalley and the Publisher***
Due to the time spent separately, the story feels a little rushed, which on one hand makes sense as they are only together for 2 days, but on the other makes it difficult to be totally invested in the relationship they are building. The author handles this in what feels like a realistic way and ends the story on a "Happily for Now" instead of a HEA...and this both works and feels a little unsatisfying at the same time. The story is part of a series and my guess is that their relationship will continue to play out it the other books in the series, but it is less satisfying when a character in one books gets their HEA in another.
The book was well written, and the characters seemed real with reactions and responses that were realistic. It is definitely worth a read, especially if you are looking for a romance that actually feels a little more "real" than some others.
***Free Copy provided by NetGalley and the Publisher***
March 29, 2016
Five awesome stars!!!
May 14, 2019
You would think that I'd have learned my lesson by now about this author and how she likes to leave endings open-ended with no real resolution. But seeing as I'm a sucker for punishment I guess, I gave this one a read after the first two in the series (this was after completing the previous related series). I have to say, this one was the biggest disappointment of them all in terms of endings. I mean they never even say "I love you" in this book - that's honestly the first time that's ever happened for me in a romance novel (and I read 200+/year). Man, talk about a letdown. What's the point of this story being told if we're left to just use our imagination as to what happens for them in the future when no love has been declared.
Do they even go out on dates? Does Phoenix move to Oklahoma or is this going to be a long distance relationship? Does Justin move out of his mom's house? Does Justin ever clean out his brother's truck and change the radio station? The list of questions could go on and on and the abrupt ending just left a bad taste in my mouth.
I will say that the story started out great. I won't give much away, but will say that this book helped resolve some of my resentment and bad feelings I had about the last book - at least that part was wrapped up in a nice bow. I loved the way Phoenix and Justin interacted. I loved that Justin began to open up and make small steps forward on the road to recovering from his brother's death. I liked Phoenix a lot more than Justin though - he was a bit too timid for my liking, especially when it came to his mom and her problems.
I wish I could say I look forward to reading the next, but given that the author hasn't written the final book yet and has no timeframe, I can't really say that.
Do they even go out on dates? Does Phoenix move to Oklahoma or is this going to be a long distance relationship? Does Justin move out of his mom's house? Does Justin ever clean out his brother's truck and change the radio station? The list of questions could go on and on and the abrupt ending just left a bad taste in my mouth.
I will say that the story started out great. I won't give much away, but will say that this book helped resolve some of my resentment and bad feelings I had about the last book - at least that part was wrapped up in a nice bow. I loved the way Phoenix and Justin interacted. I loved that Justin began to open up and make small steps forward on the road to recovering from his brother's death. I liked Phoenix a lot more than Justin though - he was a bit too timid for my liking, especially when it came to his mom and her problems.
I wish I could say I look forward to reading the next, but given that the author hasn't written the final book yet and has no timeframe, I can't really say that.
July 26, 2024
Loved Justin and Phoenix. They were off to a rocks start but can they overcome everything?
Phoenix was adopted in a closed adoption, but a clerical error when she ordered an new birth certificate, because she lost her original, and she gets the name of her birth mom. She never thought too much about it before but now that she has her name, she wants to find her. Justin is doing a favor for his boss his fiance by going to load up Bonnie's house Arizona. Phoenix shows up and wants to know where Bonnie is but refuses to tell Justin why. He ends up bringing her back to Oklahoma with him and after she finally tells him why, he helps her to meet Bonnie. Will this turn out to be good or turn bad when Rohn shows up? Justin and Phoenix start a relationship but Justin calls an immediate halt when she leave a o go back to California, because his mom had another breakdown while he was out with Phoenix. He never explained his reason to her, just cut off all communication. Will they be able to fix it when she comes back for Christmas? Will he explain everything to her and what does Rohn say about him dating his daughter?
Phoenix was adopted in a closed adoption, but a clerical error when she ordered an new birth certificate, because she lost her original, and she gets the name of her birth mom. She never thought too much about it before but now that she has her name, she wants to find her. Justin is doing a favor for his boss his fiance by going to load up Bonnie's house Arizona. Phoenix shows up and wants to know where Bonnie is but refuses to tell Justin why. He ends up bringing her back to Oklahoma with him and after she finally tells him why, he helps her to meet Bonnie. Will this turn out to be good or turn bad when Rohn shows up? Justin and Phoenix start a relationship but Justin calls an immediate halt when she leave a o go back to California, because his mom had another breakdown while he was out with Phoenix. He never explained his reason to her, just cut off all communication. Will they be able to fix it when she comes back for Christmas? Will he explain everything to her and what does Rohn say about him dating his daughter?
July 27, 2017
Phoenix didn't set out to learn about her birth mother but when a clerical error gives her her birth mother's name she know she has to meet her. And just like how this journey started, a series of mishaps means she's stranded in Phoenix, AZ with a broken down car and the knowledge that her birth mother has moved states. Her one bright spot is a chance encounter with Justin who happens to be travelling her way. Justin didn't want or need a travelling companion but Phoenix seems to be the bright spot he's been missing since his brother's passing. Can this California teacher and Oklahoma rancher find happiness as they traverse through the painful moments of their past? I jumped right in with book 3 in this series and had no problem reading this as a stand-alone. Fun, sweet, sexy read. Excited to try more!
December 12, 2020
Riding Shotgun With The Cowboy
Justin is stressed out by all of his responsibilities, working on Rohn’s ranch, caring for his mother and dealing with his own grief after his brother was killed in Afghanistan. He decides to ask for some time off. Rohn offers him a job running to AZ to move Bonnie & Tammy’s things back to OK. That’s were he runs into her....Phoenix, she has recently been sent the original copy of her birth certificate. Not the closed adoption one, but the one with her moms name on it! Now she has to convince this cowboy that he should bring her to OK, so she can finally meet her!
These two weary travelers have so much in common and they have chemistry for days! The long miles just make it easier to be with each other, to trust each other and to depend on each other. As I’ve said before, this is a series you should pick up today and read tonight!
Justin is stressed out by all of his responsibilities, working on Rohn’s ranch, caring for his mother and dealing with his own grief after his brother was killed in Afghanistan. He decides to ask for some time off. Rohn offers him a job running to AZ to move Bonnie & Tammy’s things back to OK. That’s were he runs into her....Phoenix, she has recently been sent the original copy of her birth certificate. Not the closed adoption one, but the one with her moms name on it! Now she has to convince this cowboy that he should bring her to OK, so she can finally meet her!
These two weary travelers have so much in common and they have chemistry for days! The long miles just make it easier to be with each other, to trust each other and to depend on each other. As I’ve said before, this is a series you should pick up today and read tonight!
February 12, 2018
Western Cowboy Romance
Soldiers die; and their families go to war with them. A wrangler makes for an odd mama’s boy but when his younger brother dies and his mother goes into a severe depression Justin moves home to support her. Where else would he meet his love interest but in a bar? Pheonix is a teacher adopted at birth who has just discovered the name of her birth mother.
As the story unfolds they go on a roadtrip. About half-way through I lost interest. Malthus Law may have imposed its will but I’ve had enough of the mating dance, this one anyway.
Soldiers die; and their families go to war with them. A wrangler makes for an odd mama’s boy but when his younger brother dies and his mother goes into a severe depression Justin moves home to support her. Where else would he meet his love interest but in a bar? Pheonix is a teacher adopted at birth who has just discovered the name of her birth mother.
As the story unfolds they go on a roadtrip. About half-way through I lost interest. Malthus Law may have imposed its will but I’ve had enough of the mating dance, this one anyway.
January 18, 2022
Love finally found
Circumstances beyond his control has Justin stressed out, so thinking a road trip will help, unbeknownst to him he meets the long lost daughter of his boss and fiance, secrets surface slowly between them, HOT instant chemistry makes things worse, what will Phoenix parents say, birth and adopting, can a long distance relationship between them work, can he help his mom through the grief, this has been a great unexpected journey, unexpected read of a beautiful story, thank you, Dana Zamora
Circumstances beyond his control has Justin stressed out, so thinking a road trip will help, unbeknownst to him he meets the long lost daughter of his boss and fiance, secrets surface slowly between them, HOT instant chemistry makes things worse, what will Phoenix parents say, birth and adopting, can a long distance relationship between them work, can he help his mom through the grief, this has been a great unexpected journey, unexpected read of a beautiful story, thank you, Dana Zamora
May 24, 2017
I really enjoyed this one. Justin and Phoenix were very likeable, and the plot was interesting. There was not an overabundance of sex and no insta-love. The couple grew to like each other in a believable time frame, while each was going through separate intense experiences of their own. No cheating and a guaranteed HE A. My kind of romance!
July 18, 2017
Cowboys! Need I say more 😉 Cat Johnson is great at this, I was hooked from then beginning and now a have a pretty good idea what's going to get Colton so I can't wait to get the next one to hear his story.
January 16, 2019
Another good one
This was a sweet book Justin and Phoenix a good pair. You don't read many books about a grown man trying to help his momma. Justin was written just right on heck the whole series was just right. I hope there is another one coming soon.
This was a sweet book Justin and Phoenix a good pair. You don't read many books about a grown man trying to help his momma. Justin was written just right on heck the whole series was just right. I hope there is another one coming soon.
April 1, 2019
This book was emotional! Justin and his mom trying to get over his brother's death and Phoenix finding her birth parents and not sure what to expect. This book also had a lot of good feelings! This was a fast moving book and I am so glad that things worked out for everyone!
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