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Deep in the Heart of Texas #7
The Last Cowboy in Texas
No Sad Songs Here, Darlin'
Country music princess Starlet Brubaker has a sweet tooth for moon pies and cowboys: both are yummy-and you can never have just one. Now Beckett Cates may not be a cowboy, but he certainly has the heart, soul-and body-to whet her appetite. He's a sexy ex-Marine with a touch hotter than the scorching Texas sun and arms strong enough to catch her when she lands into trouble.
Playing bodyguard to America's sweetheart isn't easy for Beckett. But falling for her sure is. Unfortunately, Starlet has a reputation for keeping a guy or two wrapped around her finger and Beckett refuses to be anybody's backup. So now it's up to Starlet to prove that she's put her cowboy-crazy days behind her. Otherwise, she'll be singing solo instead of living in harmony with the man who's loved her even before her fame and fortune.
Country music princess Starlet Brubaker has a sweet tooth for moon pies and cowboys: both are yummy-and you can never have just one. Now Beckett Cates may not be a cowboy, but he certainly has the heart, soul-and body-to whet her appetite. He's a sexy ex-Marine with a touch hotter than the scorching Texas sun and arms strong enough to catch her when she lands into trouble.
Playing bodyguard to America's sweetheart isn't easy for Beckett. But falling for her sure is. Unfortunately, Starlet has a reputation for keeping a guy or two wrapped around her finger and Beckett refuses to be anybody's backup. So now it's up to Starlet to prove that she's put her cowboy-crazy days behind her. Otherwise, she'll be singing solo instead of living in harmony with the man who's loved her even before her fame and fortune.
384 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published December 16, 2014
33 people are currently reading
778 people want to read
About the author
Katie Lane
59 books578 followersKatie Lane is the USA Today bestselling author of the Deep in the Heart of Texas, Hunk for the Holidays, Overnight Billionaires, Tender Heart Texas, Bad Boy Ranch, Kingman Ranch, Holiday Ranch series. Katie lives in Albuquerque, New Mexico, and when she isn’t writing, she enjoys reading, traveling, and cuddling with her high school sweetheart and cairn terrier, Roo.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 53 reviews
January 21, 2015
Sweet country crazy romance
I received this as a first read giveaway and have not read the previous 6 books in the series. I wish I had, there were some wild characters that I bet had a fabulous back story. There were town drunks, crazy relatives, crazy townies, nutty in laws, small town gossip, broken hearts, committed loves, angry teens, bonkers bad guy, sexy cowboys, not all there officers, hard stock women, women of pleasure, and more. I didn't know any of them but I still enjoyed this ride through this crazy little group. I can only imagine how much fun it would be if I had known them !
Sexy country star comes back to her home town where the love of her life lives with his wife. She brings her baggage with her, her family. There she works her crazy plot to get her love back when something unexpected walks into her path. A big strong sexy man who is nothing like the man she used to know. Well, too bad she hates him and he hates her, yeh right. LOL things get complicated, plans go haywire, she finds herself under all that fame and a evil plan is foiled. Romantic, sexy, small town fun.
I received this as a first read giveaway and have not read the previous 6 books in the series. I wish I had, there were some wild characters that I bet had a fabulous back story. There were town drunks, crazy relatives, crazy townies, nutty in laws, small town gossip, broken hearts, committed loves, angry teens, bonkers bad guy, sexy cowboys, not all there officers, hard stock women, women of pleasure, and more. I didn't know any of them but I still enjoyed this ride through this crazy little group. I can only imagine how much fun it would be if I had known them !
Sexy country star comes back to her home town where the love of her life lives with his wife. She brings her baggage with her, her family. There she works her crazy plot to get her love back when something unexpected walks into her path. A big strong sexy man who is nothing like the man she used to know. Well, too bad she hates him and he hates her, yeh right. LOL things get complicated, plans go haywire, she finds herself under all that fame and a evil plan is foiled. Romantic, sexy, small town fun.
April 24, 2016
This was book seven in the "Deep in the Heart of Texas" series. Playing bodyguard to America's sweetheart isn't easy for Beckett. But falling for her sure is. Country music star Starlet Brubaker likes her men. Then they grew up and Star's a big country singer occupied with her songs and rodeo cowboys until the night a big buff Marine rescues her and its none other than Beckett Cates who looks anything but geeky. Star was raised by the Hens and has known each other since they were kids and she likes what she sees. Someone's out to get Starlet and Beck finds himself her rescuer every time he turns around even though he'd rather be doing anything else. To me this book wasn't as good as some of the books in this series this book was well written like the other books in this series with no errors in grammar or spelling. I just was expecting a lot more.
January 23, 2015
Down home hijinks in a small West Texas town with the fireworks provided by a pair who run to detesting each other more than loving. Or do they? I love contemporary western small town romance, quirky town characters, family togetherness and enemies to lovers so I was glad to try this new to me author. I took a chance on reading the last book, but it worked out fine and left me eager to go back and read each story in the series. This was fun, touching, and exciting all rolled up with a great setting and engaging characters.
The youngest Cates brother and the girl adopted by the Hens have had their mean on since the moment they laid eyes on each other when he was a skinny geek and she a chubby girl. Then they grew up and Star's a big country singer occupied with her songs and rodeo cowboys until the night a big buff Marine rescues her and its none other than Beckett Cates who looks anything but geeky just as she is a far cry from her chubby awkward self.
Beckett's head was pulled closer to Starlet's soft breasts. So close that he felt like he was suffocating. Which didn't explain why he wasn't protesting. Maybe because he could think of a lot worse ways to die than cocooned in a set of sweet breasts that smelled like lilac and...bananas? Loc. 311 Beckett from The Last Cowboy in Texas
Someone's out to get Starlet and Beck finds himself her rescuer every time he turns around even though he'd rather be doing anything else. They bristle and snarl, but in between something starts to happen. Beck and Star go with what is building until Star's past catches up in more ways than one ruining a good thing.
Meanwhile, the mayoral election heats up in Bramble as do the libidos, the gossip mill is going, a stranger comes to town and the Cates brothers have trouble brewing in their own households from new babies to wild teen sons. But when trouble comes to Bramble, the whole town turns out to help.
This was just a fun story. Star and Beck had me rolling my eyes and chuckling over their bristling at each other and totally misreading the other one much of the time. That is until Beck catches Star doing a sensual fan dance and seizes the moment. They both grew up and now can see each other so much better once they really pause to look. Star has scars from her childhood and Beck is troubled from his time at war. They share a passion, but also the ability to help each other heal. I liked them together even as I dreaded the moment when Starlet's manipulating catches up with her and Beckett discovers it all.
"I'm not a hero, Starlet." He gave her a little shake to emphasize the words. "And I'm tired of trying to prove that I am. I'm just an imperfect man who likes computers, reading and noncontact sports. An imperfect man who has made a lot of mistakes and will no doubt make a lot more in his lifetime. One of the biggest is not letting you know how I felt from the first moment I stepped into Miss Hattie's and saw you standing on the stairs in that pretty prom dress."
"Pretty? You thought my dress was pretty?"
"Yes, but not even close to as pretty as the young woman who wore it." Loc. 3449 Beckett from The Last Cowboy in Texas
The town setting with all the side stories of the town folk, the Cates family and even the Hens was just a treat. Small town folk are the best and the quirkier the better. This book is not just Star and Beck's story, but their story is part of a whole blending of stories with multiple narrators and threads. Normally, I would find that distracting, but I had a good time in this instance and had a lot of people that I was cheering for to get a good outcome.
The plot had some excitement and intrigue surrounding Star and for all that most of the story is light, there were still some good twists as a result. Pace of the story fluctuated, but never really dragged. The tone balanced right on the tip of the absurd, but stayed just on the right side so that the humor was played well against the other elements.
This was the last book so it was obvious there was a lot of wrapping up for the series and reunions with the previous couples. It was fun and was woven in so that it wasn't tedious, but enjoyable. I loved the time that Beck spent with his brothers and sister with their families and I loved the scenes with Star, the Hens and Star's family. Her uncle was a total scene-stealer.
All in all, I had a good time with the colorful characters, snippy lovers and small town atmosphere. I would recommend this one to Contemporary Romance lovers who like a western feel and some spice to their romance.
My thanks to Net Galley for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
The youngest Cates brother and the girl adopted by the Hens have had their mean on since the moment they laid eyes on each other when he was a skinny geek and she a chubby girl. Then they grew up and Star's a big country singer occupied with her songs and rodeo cowboys until the night a big buff Marine rescues her and its none other than Beckett Cates who looks anything but geeky just as she is a far cry from her chubby awkward self.
Beckett's head was pulled closer to Starlet's soft breasts. So close that he felt like he was suffocating. Which didn't explain why he wasn't protesting. Maybe because he could think of a lot worse ways to die than cocooned in a set of sweet breasts that smelled like lilac and...bananas? Loc. 311 Beckett from The Last Cowboy in Texas
Someone's out to get Starlet and Beck finds himself her rescuer every time he turns around even though he'd rather be doing anything else. They bristle and snarl, but in between something starts to happen. Beck and Star go with what is building until Star's past catches up in more ways than one ruining a good thing.
Meanwhile, the mayoral election heats up in Bramble as do the libidos, the gossip mill is going, a stranger comes to town and the Cates brothers have trouble brewing in their own households from new babies to wild teen sons. But when trouble comes to Bramble, the whole town turns out to help.
This was just a fun story. Star and Beck had me rolling my eyes and chuckling over their bristling at each other and totally misreading the other one much of the time. That is until Beck catches Star doing a sensual fan dance and seizes the moment. They both grew up and now can see each other so much better once they really pause to look. Star has scars from her childhood and Beck is troubled from his time at war. They share a passion, but also the ability to help each other heal. I liked them together even as I dreaded the moment when Starlet's manipulating catches up with her and Beckett discovers it all.
"I'm not a hero, Starlet." He gave her a little shake to emphasize the words. "And I'm tired of trying to prove that I am. I'm just an imperfect man who likes computers, reading and noncontact sports. An imperfect man who has made a lot of mistakes and will no doubt make a lot more in his lifetime. One of the biggest is not letting you know how I felt from the first moment I stepped into Miss Hattie's and saw you standing on the stairs in that pretty prom dress."
"Pretty? You thought my dress was pretty?"
"Yes, but not even close to as pretty as the young woman who wore it." Loc. 3449 Beckett from The Last Cowboy in Texas
The town setting with all the side stories of the town folk, the Cates family and even the Hens was just a treat. Small town folk are the best and the quirkier the better. This book is not just Star and Beck's story, but their story is part of a whole blending of stories with multiple narrators and threads. Normally, I would find that distracting, but I had a good time in this instance and had a lot of people that I was cheering for to get a good outcome.
The plot had some excitement and intrigue surrounding Star and for all that most of the story is light, there were still some good twists as a result. Pace of the story fluctuated, but never really dragged. The tone balanced right on the tip of the absurd, but stayed just on the right side so that the humor was played well against the other elements.
This was the last book so it was obvious there was a lot of wrapping up for the series and reunions with the previous couples. It was fun and was woven in so that it wasn't tedious, but enjoyable. I loved the time that Beck spent with his brothers and sister with their families and I loved the scenes with Star, the Hens and Star's family. Her uncle was a total scene-stealer.
All in all, I had a good time with the colorful characters, snippy lovers and small town atmosphere. I would recommend this one to Contemporary Romance lovers who like a western feel and some spice to their romance.
My thanks to Net Galley for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
December 11, 2014
Originally Reviewed for Bodice Rippers, Femme Fatales and Fantasy
Katie Lane writes a wonderful, fun series. While The Last Cowboy in Texas is the Seventh Book in the Deep in the Heart of Texas Series it reads well as a stand alone. It also reads excellently if you have only read part of the series, like I have.
It's fun that I started this series with Trouble in Texas, since it was the book that introduced, Starlett.. AKA Star. In a way it brings the series back to the beginning and returns to wonderful small town Texas.
Starlett Brubaker left the Hen House with big talent and even bigger dreams. Leaving behind the only man she has ever loved. The man she wrote her first chart topping song for. She has huge dreams of him realizing that she has become a Star (both in name and reality) and falling deeply in love with her. Who cares that he is in love with his wife. What Star doesn't expect is to encounter his younger, more snobbish brother. And to discover that he's way more than just a geek.
Beckett Cates is no longer the geeky younger brother with more brains than brawn. After two tours with the marines, he's got the brawn as well. When a chance at a free concert comes up he takes it, never realizing that Star was little Starlett Brubaker, the girl who managed to con his family into believing in her. Beckett is not thrilled with a chance encounter but when she is attacked he realizes just how much she means to his family... And he agrees to become her personal bodyguard until she is safe from her latest crises.
Enforced togetherness makes this dynamic duo realize that there is something there, that there has been since their very first meeting. And that neither is exactly what the other thought. Both are strong characters with wacky families. Fortunately for Beckett, his is decent and kind and loving.. Star's not so much.
Aside from dealing with their families they have to deal with Star's strange set of stalkers.. and a deadly man from her past.
Fun and dangerous.. what a combination.
Shauni
This review is based on the ARC of The Last Cowboy in Texas, provided by netgalley and scheduled for release on December 16, 2014
Katie Lane writes a wonderful, fun series. While The Last Cowboy in Texas is the Seventh Book in the Deep in the Heart of Texas Series it reads well as a stand alone. It also reads excellently if you have only read part of the series, like I have.
It's fun that I started this series with Trouble in Texas, since it was the book that introduced, Starlett.. AKA Star. In a way it brings the series back to the beginning and returns to wonderful small town Texas.
Starlett Brubaker left the Hen House with big talent and even bigger dreams. Leaving behind the only man she has ever loved. The man she wrote her first chart topping song for. She has huge dreams of him realizing that she has become a Star (both in name and reality) and falling deeply in love with her. Who cares that he is in love with his wife. What Star doesn't expect is to encounter his younger, more snobbish brother. And to discover that he's way more than just a geek.
Beckett Cates is no longer the geeky younger brother with more brains than brawn. After two tours with the marines, he's got the brawn as well. When a chance at a free concert comes up he takes it, never realizing that Star was little Starlett Brubaker, the girl who managed to con his family into believing in her. Beckett is not thrilled with a chance encounter but when she is attacked he realizes just how much she means to his family... And he agrees to become her personal bodyguard until she is safe from her latest crises.
Enforced togetherness makes this dynamic duo realize that there is something there, that there has been since their very first meeting. And that neither is exactly what the other thought. Both are strong characters with wacky families. Fortunately for Beckett, his is decent and kind and loving.. Star's not so much.
Aside from dealing with their families they have to deal with Star's strange set of stalkers.. and a deadly man from her past.
Fun and dangerous.. what a combination.
Shauni
This review is based on the ARC of The Last Cowboy in Texas, provided by netgalley and scheduled for release on December 16, 2014
December 31, 2014
This series has been a joy to read. Small town hijinks and humor along with great romances. This being the last book in the series it was fitting that it was the youngest Cates brother’s book. If you like small town romances with a very funny cast of secondary characters give this series a try. I’ve enjoyed all 7 books in the series and look forward to whatever is next from this author.
February 11, 2019
Not going to spend a lot of time writing a review on this book. I'll say two things. First, this may be the best finale to a series I've ever read. Seriously, all the main characters from the other six books have their moments in this one as well as most of the secondary characters from the series. Beyond the brewing romance between country star Starlet Brubaker (aka Star Bentley) and Beckett Cates it seems everyone in the town of Bramble Texas readers of the series have come to know and love gets their own H.E.A. too. There are so many plot lines in this book that if you haven't read the series you might get lost. Or at least you won't be able to fully appreciate them. Which brings me to point #2. If you haven't already read the first 6 books in this series I highly recommend you do so to fully appreciate this book. Each book is only about 300 pages and I burned through them in under two weeks and I'm a slow reader. It's worth the time and little bit of money.
Loved the series. Loved this book and while I'm sad to see it end, I am looking forward to the little novella, My Big Fat Texas wedding featuring Austin and Mia who were just a couple of teenagers when the series began.
Loved the series. Loved this book and while I'm sad to see it end, I am looking forward to the little novella, My Big Fat Texas wedding featuring Austin and Mia who were just a couple of teenagers when the series began.
November 10, 2019
We're trying to get through a slew of books at work that are in high demand to be recorded (and then turned into audiobooks). This...this is definitely not my kind of book, at all.
I could wax unpoetic about how terrible and cliche the characters are (and the author's stereotypical take on what she thinks Texans are named, how they speak, and how they act...but I digress), but I won't.
Suffice to say this is a Miranda Lambert fanfic.
I could wax unpoetic about how terrible and cliche the characters are (and the author's stereotypical take on what she thinks Texans are named, how they speak, and how they act...but I digress), but I won't.
Suffice to say this is a Miranda Lambert fanfic.
July 17, 2023
This was a cute, refreshing romance that follows up with the last blue eyed Cate boy you would think to find romance. Beckett was smart and very geeky but after returning from the Marines, he sure didn’t look geeky, at least not from Starlet’s view. For two people who started out trying not to like each other, they fought tooth and nail not to fall in love. I enjoyed the lighthearted humor along with some danger.
September 23, 2017
It has Katie Lane's humor and wrapped up the series well, but seemed a little rushed at times. Several subplots to help wrap up the series didn't really fit in and would probably have been better as novellas instead of part of the book. I would advise reading this if you have enjoyed the series, but definitely wouldn't let it be your introduction to the series or the author
September 24, 2018
Love this wrap up book
Love this town and so the characters in this book. Beckett and Starlit are the main couple to call in love but there are several in this final book. This town and the henhouse are so wonderful. The ups and downs of this emotional rollercoaster is wonderful. A wonderful, fun loving crazy final book in this series.
Love this town and so the characters in this book. Beckett and Starlit are the main couple to call in love but there are several in this final book. This town and the henhouse are so wonderful. The ups and downs of this emotional rollercoaster is wonderful. A wonderful, fun loving crazy final book in this series.
June 29, 2017
I loved all the books in the Deep in the Heart of Texas series by Katie Lane. I'm sad that I finished them all.
I loved all the books in the Deep in the Heart of Texas series by Katie Lane. I loved Bramble and all of the characters. I sadly move on to other books.
I loved all the books in the Deep in the Heart of Texas series by Katie Lane. I loved Bramble and all of the characters. I sadly move on to other books.
August 7, 2018
What an ending!
This was a great set of books. Interesting ,funny and kept me looking forward th the next story. I will miss the town and all its crazy wonderful people. Thank You for sharing these stories with us.
This was a great set of books. Interesting ,funny and kept me looking forward th the next story. I will miss the town and all its crazy wonderful people. Thank You for sharing these stories with us.
October 23, 2018
liked the side story of bramble community members, interaction between beckette and scarlett and the ending with Josephine and Sherman so cute
December 16, 2018
Awesome little country romance book!!!
December 24, 2018
Hotness Rating 3 out of 5
Review to come...
Review to come...
February 23, 2020
The beginning was slow, but I enjoyed most of it very much.
August 9, 2023
⛔️(in notes)
December 17, 2014
"Bramble was a happily-ever-after kind of place. A place where hearts healed. A place where dreams came true. A perfect place to call home."
*Sigh!* This book made me want to move to the South; all the southern charm, the neighborly gossip, the true friendships, and of course the HOT cowboys.
Beckett is not only the hero of the story; he is also a southern cowboy and former Marine. Ovaries explode! He is caring to a fault and has only recently returned home after a tour in Afghanistan. Star Bentley, the famous country singer is hiding from herself. Formerly known as Starlet Brubaker, she turned herself into a world famous singer who did what everyone else wanted or expected of her. She had a rough childhood and was a small town girl at heart. Being kidnapped and ending up coming home was one of the best things that ever happened to her.
I loved the small town feel of this book. Everybody knew everybody’s business, but that is what kept the town running. I loved how we got to see so many different townsfolk and their issues as well.
The tension between Beckett and Starlet was sizzling. There was always an underlying lust accompanying their dislike for one another. The jungle room scene was amazing! But of course there is a thin line between love and hate.
This book really had it all; it was funny, charming, sexy, sweet, and full of action. There were so many twists and turns that I did not expect. And there were so many cowboys!
“Henhouse rule number fifty-one states: Never let a good cowboy get away.”
This was a fantastic read and I couldn’t put it down! ~ Tiffany, 4.5 stars
~~~
I’m not shy about my love of cowboys, which is exactly why I was excited to read The Last Cowboy in Texas. Throw cowboy in the title and I am all in and, while I ultimately enjoyed this tale of Country Music’s Sweetheart, Star Bentley, and her ex-Marine, Texas hunk of man-meat, Beckett Cates, I have to admit, I struggled to love it.
Starlet Brubaker left her small-town life behind to become Star Bentley, waif-thin, famous and with a taste for hot-and-sexy cowboys. When she encounters Beckett Cates, a not-so-welcome blast from her past, and sees how much he’s changed physically, she can’t help but be attracted to him. Especially when he’s hell bent on protecting her from the threat lurking in the background.
Beckett doesn’t want to fall for the sweet Star – she’s not the Starlet he remembered, not that he liked her that much back then either – but in the course of keeping her safe, it seems he has no choice. But when a secret from her past surfaces and Beckett is left feeling like he was played, it’s up to Starlet to prove that he’s her first, and only, choice.
I wanted to love this book, and the blurb was very catchy. But having finished the book, I feel a little misled. It’s not that the blurb was wrong, but the story was quite different to what I was expecting.
Perhaps if I had read the earlier books in this series I would have better understood what was going on, and who everyone was. It’s not that it can’t be read standalone – I managed just fine, and I think the author did an excellent job of dropping vital information from earlier books into the story in an unobtrusive way – it’s just that there were so many characters and threads to this story. And it made for very stop/start reading. Every time I would start to connect with, and feel for, Star and Becky, a new chapter would start and would follow a different secondary character, and I’d find myself wishing I could skip ahead to the parts with the characters I actually wanted to read about.
Don’t get me wrong; the book itself was interesting, if a little predictable, in its own way. Each character brought in new information that ultimately fed the overall story; it’s just that I wanted a story about a singer and her love/hate relationship with her bodyguard, and none of the extra. The consequence of having an overload of characters was being unable to love many of them and feeling that Starlet and Beckett’s story was a little rushed and a little incomplete.
The Last Cowboy in Texas is a good book about small-town life, and the gossip that feeds it. It’s a good book about family, and the things we are willing to put up with because of that blood bond. It’s a good book about love, and the lengths a person is willing to go to find it and keep it. And although it was too much story for one book, it was a good book that I liked reading. I just wish I could have loved it.
The Last Cowboy in Texas is the seventh book in the Deep in the Heart of Texas series and can be read standalone. No cliffhanger. ~ Beth, 3 stars
*Sigh!* This book made me want to move to the South; all the southern charm, the neighborly gossip, the true friendships, and of course the HOT cowboys.
Beckett is not only the hero of the story; he is also a southern cowboy and former Marine. Ovaries explode! He is caring to a fault and has only recently returned home after a tour in Afghanistan. Star Bentley, the famous country singer is hiding from herself. Formerly known as Starlet Brubaker, she turned herself into a world famous singer who did what everyone else wanted or expected of her. She had a rough childhood and was a small town girl at heart. Being kidnapped and ending up coming home was one of the best things that ever happened to her.
I loved the small town feel of this book. Everybody knew everybody’s business, but that is what kept the town running. I loved how we got to see so many different townsfolk and their issues as well.
The tension between Beckett and Starlet was sizzling. There was always an underlying lust accompanying their dislike for one another. The jungle room scene was amazing! But of course there is a thin line between love and hate.
This book really had it all; it was funny, charming, sexy, sweet, and full of action. There were so many twists and turns that I did not expect. And there were so many cowboys!
“Henhouse rule number fifty-one states: Never let a good cowboy get away.”
This was a fantastic read and I couldn’t put it down! ~ Tiffany, 4.5 stars
~~~
I’m not shy about my love of cowboys, which is exactly why I was excited to read The Last Cowboy in Texas. Throw cowboy in the title and I am all in and, while I ultimately enjoyed this tale of Country Music’s Sweetheart, Star Bentley, and her ex-Marine, Texas hunk of man-meat, Beckett Cates, I have to admit, I struggled to love it.
Starlet Brubaker left her small-town life behind to become Star Bentley, waif-thin, famous and with a taste for hot-and-sexy cowboys. When she encounters Beckett Cates, a not-so-welcome blast from her past, and sees how much he’s changed physically, she can’t help but be attracted to him. Especially when he’s hell bent on protecting her from the threat lurking in the background.
Beckett doesn’t want to fall for the sweet Star – she’s not the Starlet he remembered, not that he liked her that much back then either – but in the course of keeping her safe, it seems he has no choice. But when a secret from her past surfaces and Beckett is left feeling like he was played, it’s up to Starlet to prove that he’s her first, and only, choice.
I wanted to love this book, and the blurb was very catchy. But having finished the book, I feel a little misled. It’s not that the blurb was wrong, but the story was quite different to what I was expecting.
Perhaps if I had read the earlier books in this series I would have better understood what was going on, and who everyone was. It’s not that it can’t be read standalone – I managed just fine, and I think the author did an excellent job of dropping vital information from earlier books into the story in an unobtrusive way – it’s just that there were so many characters and threads to this story. And it made for very stop/start reading. Every time I would start to connect with, and feel for, Star and Becky, a new chapter would start and would follow a different secondary character, and I’d find myself wishing I could skip ahead to the parts with the characters I actually wanted to read about.
Don’t get me wrong; the book itself was interesting, if a little predictable, in its own way. Each character brought in new information that ultimately fed the overall story; it’s just that I wanted a story about a singer and her love/hate relationship with her bodyguard, and none of the extra. The consequence of having an overload of characters was being unable to love many of them and feeling that Starlet and Beckett’s story was a little rushed and a little incomplete.
The Last Cowboy in Texas is a good book about small-town life, and the gossip that feeds it. It’s a good book about family, and the things we are willing to put up with because of that blood bond. It’s a good book about love, and the lengths a person is willing to go to find it and keep it. And although it was too much story for one book, it was a good book that I liked reading. I just wish I could have loved it.
The Last Cowboy in Texas is the seventh book in the Deep in the Heart of Texas series and can be read standalone. No cliffhanger. ~ Beth, 3 stars
December 29, 2014
This review was originally posted on Backchatting Books
Starlet Brubaker, the awkward "ugly duckling" of the Hen House is all grown up now and has a successful country music career. Beckett, the brother of Starlet's long-time crush, is fairly wary of her as he remembered her as a manipulative little creature but when her life is threatened, he can't help but get involved.
Both our leads undergo significant physical changes throughout the course of this series. Starlet is now thin and beautiful while Beckett has gone from the geeky brother to a ripped ex-Marine. I found myself wondering if these cosmetic changes were really necessary though as both were initially attracted to each other in their pre-gorgeous days. Perhaps Lane felt the need she had to repackage the pair to make them worthy of a full book.
Starlet hasn't lost her immaturity (or naivety) when you consider the way she continued to lust after her long-time crush Beau and tried to break up his marriage. She puts up with her sponging relatives who are determined to cash in on her success and is completely under the thumb of her manager. She begins to find her voice with Beckett around and ironically falls prey to a new form of control as she is unable to write music without him around. Her behaviour however threatens this fragile relationship repeatedly.
Beckett has his own demons to fight with PTSD and a feeling of inadequacy around his high-achieving older brothers. It is fascinating to see how so many romance authors put their own spin on PTSD and try to reflect such a serious issue sensitively. I think Lane did a good job with Beckett as although he was clearly suffering, his condition didn't define who he was or his potential. I'm glad we weren't patronised with a magical cure but instead saw some of his rough edges gradually smoothed by Starlet as he learned to trust her.
This is the last novel in the series and acts more as a love story for the town than for Beckett and Starlet. I didn't mind checking in with the other couples who achieved HEA status and those in the town who hadn't made it that far but I just wish that the sequencing of the interludes was better paced as just when I thought we were going to get some relationship progression between Beckett and Starlett, we got sidetracked with other romances. The way it was executed made it harder to connect with the couple the novel was supposed to be about. The humour however remains intact and the sheer craziness of Bramble will have you alternatively rolling your eyes or giggling.
Please don't jump into the series with this final book as you will probably be bewildered with the cast of thousands and references to past events. It's a bit sad that this is the last Bramble book as they've been lots of fun.
Starlet Brubaker, the awkward "ugly duckling" of the Hen House is all grown up now and has a successful country music career. Beckett, the brother of Starlet's long-time crush, is fairly wary of her as he remembered her as a manipulative little creature but when her life is threatened, he can't help but get involved.
Both our leads undergo significant physical changes throughout the course of this series. Starlet is now thin and beautiful while Beckett has gone from the geeky brother to a ripped ex-Marine. I found myself wondering if these cosmetic changes were really necessary though as both were initially attracted to each other in their pre-gorgeous days. Perhaps Lane felt the need she had to repackage the pair to make them worthy of a full book.
Starlet hasn't lost her immaturity (or naivety) when you consider the way she continued to lust after her long-time crush Beau and tried to break up his marriage. She puts up with her sponging relatives who are determined to cash in on her success and is completely under the thumb of her manager. She begins to find her voice with Beckett around and ironically falls prey to a new form of control as she is unable to write music without him around. Her behaviour however threatens this fragile relationship repeatedly.
Beckett has his own demons to fight with PTSD and a feeling of inadequacy around his high-achieving older brothers. It is fascinating to see how so many romance authors put their own spin on PTSD and try to reflect such a serious issue sensitively. I think Lane did a good job with Beckett as although he was clearly suffering, his condition didn't define who he was or his potential. I'm glad we weren't patronised with a magical cure but instead saw some of his rough edges gradually smoothed by Starlet as he learned to trust her.
This is the last novel in the series and acts more as a love story for the town than for Beckett and Starlet. I didn't mind checking in with the other couples who achieved HEA status and those in the town who hadn't made it that far but I just wish that the sequencing of the interludes was better paced as just when I thought we were going to get some relationship progression between Beckett and Starlett, we got sidetracked with other romances. The way it was executed made it harder to connect with the couple the novel was supposed to be about. The humour however remains intact and the sheer craziness of Bramble will have you alternatively rolling your eyes or giggling.
Please don't jump into the series with this final book as you will probably be bewildered with the cast of thousands and references to past events. It's a bit sad that this is the last Bramble book as they've been lots of fun.
December 15, 2014
The Last Cowboy in Texas is a sweet, funny and heartfelt novel and it is the perfect ending to Katie Lane's entertaining and heartwarming Deep in the Heart of Texas series. In this outing, Starlet Brubaker and Beckett Cates are shocked when their previously antagonistic relationship unexpectedly turns romantic.
Starlet's dream of becoming a successful country singer has come true, but her life has spiraled out of control. Between her controlling manager, uncle, cousin and alcoholic mother, Starlet cannot seem to find a moment of peace nor does she have a minute to call her own. After her latest tour ends, Starlet returns to Bramble where her much needed break is soon complicated by kidnapping attempts, writer's block and a surprising romance with the now grownup and deliciously sexy Beckett.
Beckett is the youngest of the Cates' siblings and he has never fit in with his rough and tumble older brothers. Feeling the need to prove himself, he joined the Marines and he is no longer the skinny, nerdy Cates everyone remembers. However, the changes in Beckett go deeper than his outward appearance. After a tour in Afghanistan, he is struggling with some residual PTSD and guilt from his last mission. He is not planning on staying in Bramble, but when Starlet needs a bodyguard, Beckett agrees to protect her until she is no longer in danger.
Starlet and Beckett's relationship is a wonderful blend of scorching hot love scenes and sweetly romantic moments that occur as they get to know one another. They also begin to understand that their previous animosity was fueled by misunderstandings but most importantly, they discover their feelings for one another run deeper than either realized. Just as they begin to look toward a possible future together, their blossoming romance is complicated by Starlet's past.
In addition to Starlet and Beckett's romance, there are numerous subplots featuring some of Bramble's colorful residents. These secondary story arcs help wrap up minor storylines that were not completely resolved in previous novels. There is also a hint of mystery that adds some drama to the overall story.
The Last Cowboy in Texas is a fast paced and engaging novel with a somewhat zany cast of characters and a delightfully unique (and slightly outrageous) storyline. It is a touching and emotional romance and Katie Lane's moving epilogue wraps up all of the loose ends and makes it just a little bit easier to say good-bye to the wonderful town of Bramble and all of its crazy but lovable inhabitants.
Starlet's dream of becoming a successful country singer has come true, but her life has spiraled out of control. Between her controlling manager, uncle, cousin and alcoholic mother, Starlet cannot seem to find a moment of peace nor does she have a minute to call her own. After her latest tour ends, Starlet returns to Bramble where her much needed break is soon complicated by kidnapping attempts, writer's block and a surprising romance with the now grownup and deliciously sexy Beckett.
Beckett is the youngest of the Cates' siblings and he has never fit in with his rough and tumble older brothers. Feeling the need to prove himself, he joined the Marines and he is no longer the skinny, nerdy Cates everyone remembers. However, the changes in Beckett go deeper than his outward appearance. After a tour in Afghanistan, he is struggling with some residual PTSD and guilt from his last mission. He is not planning on staying in Bramble, but when Starlet needs a bodyguard, Beckett agrees to protect her until she is no longer in danger.
Starlet and Beckett's relationship is a wonderful blend of scorching hot love scenes and sweetly romantic moments that occur as they get to know one another. They also begin to understand that their previous animosity was fueled by misunderstandings but most importantly, they discover their feelings for one another run deeper than either realized. Just as they begin to look toward a possible future together, their blossoming romance is complicated by Starlet's past.
In addition to Starlet and Beckett's romance, there are numerous subplots featuring some of Bramble's colorful residents. These secondary story arcs help wrap up minor storylines that were not completely resolved in previous novels. There is also a hint of mystery that adds some drama to the overall story.
The Last Cowboy in Texas is a fast paced and engaging novel with a somewhat zany cast of characters and a delightfully unique (and slightly outrageous) storyline. It is a touching and emotional romance and Katie Lane's moving epilogue wraps up all of the loose ends and makes it just a little bit easier to say good-bye to the wonderful town of Bramble and all of its crazy but lovable inhabitants.
December 16, 2014
My Thoughts:
The Last Cowboy in Texas was a great story! This was the first book that I've read in the Deep in the Heart of Texas Series by new-to-me-author Katie Lane. Let's just say after this book, I want to go back and read the whole series! The reason I decided to read this book in the first place was because of the sexy looking book cover, the synopsis, and I heard that it could be read as a standalone. While I agree that, yes it can be read as a standalone, I would say that for the main characters this works. Whereas, when it comes to the secondary characters, I felt a bit lost at times keeping track of who was who, and knowing their stories.
The Last Cowboy in Texas focuses on Star Bentley and the youngest Cates' Brother, Beckett. Before Star was the beautiful and famous sweetheart of country music, she was an ordinary girl, with a huge crush on Beau Cates. Beckett was a scrawny, and nerdy guy at the time that didn't hold a candle to Beau. Now, many years later, Beck is a filled out, sexy, ex-marine, who Star doesn't recognize at first glance.
Beck gets pulled in to protecting Star by his sister Brianne (Star's best friend,) when it becomes evident that she is in danger. Star and Beck end up having a push-pull dynamic when the both realize that they have an intense attraction and chemistry with one another. Yet, Beck has always thought that Star isn't genuine and knows how to manipulate others, while Star never understood why Beck didn't like her. Will these two be able to sort their feelings for one another before misunderstandings and miscommunications end their chance for something serious?
The Last Cowboy in Texas was filled with action, suspense, humor, and chemistry between the two main characters. Star and Beck shared some very hot chemistry. There is a certain fan scene that was scorching hot!!! The townspeople added a fun dynamic to the story with their gossip, goof-ups, secrets, and kinship. Some of my favorite secondary characters were Brianne and her husband Dusty, and Beck's oldest brother, Brant. The ending to the story was very sweet and romantic. I loved the way the Epilogue brought all of the characters in the series together.
My Rating:
I give, The Last Cowboy in Texas, by Katie Lane, 4 Addictive, Fun, Fast-Paced, Funny, and Sexy-Sweet Stars!!! I am adding this whole series to my TBR!
*To Read More Book Reviews, Visit A Bookish Escape at http;//www.abookishescape.com
The Last Cowboy in Texas was a great story! This was the first book that I've read in the Deep in the Heart of Texas Series by new-to-me-author Katie Lane. Let's just say after this book, I want to go back and read the whole series! The reason I decided to read this book in the first place was because of the sexy looking book cover, the synopsis, and I heard that it could be read as a standalone. While I agree that, yes it can be read as a standalone, I would say that for the main characters this works. Whereas, when it comes to the secondary characters, I felt a bit lost at times keeping track of who was who, and knowing their stories.
The Last Cowboy in Texas focuses on Star Bentley and the youngest Cates' Brother, Beckett. Before Star was the beautiful and famous sweetheart of country music, she was an ordinary girl, with a huge crush on Beau Cates. Beckett was a scrawny, and nerdy guy at the time that didn't hold a candle to Beau. Now, many years later, Beck is a filled out, sexy, ex-marine, who Star doesn't recognize at first glance.
Beck gets pulled in to protecting Star by his sister Brianne (Star's best friend,) when it becomes evident that she is in danger. Star and Beck end up having a push-pull dynamic when the both realize that they have an intense attraction and chemistry with one another. Yet, Beck has always thought that Star isn't genuine and knows how to manipulate others, while Star never understood why Beck didn't like her. Will these two be able to sort their feelings for one another before misunderstandings and miscommunications end their chance for something serious?
The Last Cowboy in Texas was filled with action, suspense, humor, and chemistry between the two main characters. Star and Beck shared some very hot chemistry. There is a certain fan scene that was scorching hot!!! The townspeople added a fun dynamic to the story with their gossip, goof-ups, secrets, and kinship. Some of my favorite secondary characters were Brianne and her husband Dusty, and Beck's oldest brother, Brant. The ending to the story was very sweet and romantic. I loved the way the Epilogue brought all of the characters in the series together.
My Rating:
I give, The Last Cowboy in Texas, by Katie Lane, 4 Addictive, Fun, Fast-Paced, Funny, and Sexy-Sweet Stars!!! I am adding this whole series to my TBR!
*To Read More Book Reviews, Visit A Bookish Escape at http;//www.abookishescape.com
December 20, 2014
I think this can be read as a stand-alone but would have a bit of added benefit when reading the others. I started the series with A Match Made in Texas.
Starlett Brubaker has left the hen house to purchase her dreams of music and she has it big. Now known as Star Bentley, she’s the sweetheart of country music. With her fame have come some other changes. She now has blonde hair, a much smaller waistline, and a small but mighty manager. She goes through the motions to support her mooching family but in the end, it’s the music that makes her happy.
Beckett Cates joined the Marines but instead of a cushy desk job for the nerdy baby of the family, he is deployed to Middle East. After a tragic event, he’s now back at home trying to figure out how to move on with life. Suffering from guilt and PTSD, he doesn’t plan on staying in Bramble until he happens to go to a concert for Star. When a botched kidnapping occurs, he finds purpose in protecting her.
The story is fun and had a more serious feeling but still has just enough southern campiness to be endearing and not so humorless. Star and Beckett have this great love/hate quality to their relationship which is mostly based on missed connections and misunderstood perceptions. With her still pining after his older, married brother, Starlett has overlooked that the young geek has developed into a hunk but with the same sweetness and intelligence as before.
This final book in the series fluidly includes all of the favorite characters from the previous installments to add to the last hoorah. There is also a sweet and succinct epilogue to wrap up all the loose ends. If you’re looking for wit, humor, and something just a bit outlandish, this is your book and series.
Rating: 3.5 Stars
To see more reviews like this, go to Smut and Bonbons.
~Complimentary copy received in exchange for honest review.~
Starlett Brubaker has left the hen house to purchase her dreams of music and she has it big. Now known as Star Bentley, she’s the sweetheart of country music. With her fame have come some other changes. She now has blonde hair, a much smaller waistline, and a small but mighty manager. She goes through the motions to support her mooching family but in the end, it’s the music that makes her happy.
Beckett Cates joined the Marines but instead of a cushy desk job for the nerdy baby of the family, he is deployed to Middle East. After a tragic event, he’s now back at home trying to figure out how to move on with life. Suffering from guilt and PTSD, he doesn’t plan on staying in Bramble until he happens to go to a concert for Star. When a botched kidnapping occurs, he finds purpose in protecting her.
The story is fun and had a more serious feeling but still has just enough southern campiness to be endearing and not so humorless. Star and Beckett have this great love/hate quality to their relationship which is mostly based on missed connections and misunderstood perceptions. With her still pining after his older, married brother, Starlett has overlooked that the young geek has developed into a hunk but with the same sweetness and intelligence as before.
This final book in the series fluidly includes all of the favorite characters from the previous installments to add to the last hoorah. There is also a sweet and succinct epilogue to wrap up all the loose ends. If you’re looking for wit, humor, and something just a bit outlandish, this is your book and series.
Rating: 3.5 Stars
To see more reviews like this, go to Smut and Bonbons.
~Complimentary copy received in exchange for honest review.~
July 14, 2015
It is always a joy to read a Katie Lane book.
Starlet and Beckett have a history. Before Starlet left Bramble, Texas to pursue her dreams as a singer/songwriter, a young and geeky Beckett turned her down when she offered herself to him. Now Starlet is Star Bentley, country music star with lots of fame, fortune and a deadly stalker with unfinished business on his agenda.
Beckett is a strong and muscular soldier now with the means to protect Starlet. Despite his reluctance to do so, Beckett can’t seem to stay away from the woman who drives him crazy just as much as she turns him on. He is sex on a stick and Starlet can’t seem to keep her thoughts from this irritating, yet irresistible cowboy. As the action heats up and secrets are revealed, Starlet fears she’ll lose everything—including a chance with Beckett—before she has time to right all the wrongs she’s caused.
I absolutely LOVED this book! Starlet and Beckett were brilliant together! I loved their witty banter and they always had me laughing. I also loved watching other relationships progress in the town as well as some crazy revelations from a few of the townspeople. I love this small community!
This book has everything: action, excitement, suspense, mystery, music, humor, steamy sexy-times, heartfelt moments and happily ever afters. I laughed, I got teary and I cheered!
What I love most about a Katie Lane book is that love is possible for anyone regardless of shape, size, age, or social/economic backgrounds. She finds the beauty in the imperfect and creates diverse characters with true heart and relatability. Humorous, heartfelt and delightful, THE LAST COWBOY IN TEXAS is a must read for romance and cowboy lovers alike!
***I was gifted a paperback copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. All conclusions reached are my own***
Starlet and Beckett have a history. Before Starlet left Bramble, Texas to pursue her dreams as a singer/songwriter, a young and geeky Beckett turned her down when she offered herself to him. Now Starlet is Star Bentley, country music star with lots of fame, fortune and a deadly stalker with unfinished business on his agenda.
Beckett is a strong and muscular soldier now with the means to protect Starlet. Despite his reluctance to do so, Beckett can’t seem to stay away from the woman who drives him crazy just as much as she turns him on. He is sex on a stick and Starlet can’t seem to keep her thoughts from this irritating, yet irresistible cowboy. As the action heats up and secrets are revealed, Starlet fears she’ll lose everything—including a chance with Beckett—before she has time to right all the wrongs she’s caused.
I absolutely LOVED this book! Starlet and Beckett were brilliant together! I loved their witty banter and they always had me laughing. I also loved watching other relationships progress in the town as well as some crazy revelations from a few of the townspeople. I love this small community!
This book has everything: action, excitement, suspense, mystery, music, humor, steamy sexy-times, heartfelt moments and happily ever afters. I laughed, I got teary and I cheered!
What I love most about a Katie Lane book is that love is possible for anyone regardless of shape, size, age, or social/economic backgrounds. She finds the beauty in the imperfect and creates diverse characters with true heart and relatability. Humorous, heartfelt and delightful, THE LAST COWBOY IN TEXAS is a must read for romance and cowboy lovers alike!
***I was gifted a paperback copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. All conclusions reached are my own***
December 16, 2014
Posted on What I'm Reading
When I started The Last Cowboy in Texas, I wasn't sure if I was going to like the story. It all boils down to Starlet. At the beginning of the story she's the country music princess, and she wore it like armor. From the previous books she changed her image to the point that she didn't recognize herself. She made it hard to like the new image she was portraying, and I kind of felt the same way as Beckett. Beckett saw her has a spoil brat. She doesn't help her case in the story. Seriously, some of the things she did were horrible. It wasn't until I got more in the book that I realize that she was lost and didn't know how to find herself. Now Beckett, is the youngest Cates brothers, and he wasn't like the others. So, when he went off to the marines he change, and he wasn't the same guy when he left Bramble.
During the story, you see Starlet and Beckett basically taking one another's head-off. You know how sometimes when you can't stand one person, but it's actual the opposite. It's more like they don't know how to handle their feelings for one another, so it comes off as dislike. We see a lot of that throughout the story, and we can't forget the craziness that happens in Bramble. Overall, I did like The Last Cowboy in Texas, because you have a love-hate relationship between Beckett and Starlet. However, Starlet almost ruins it with stupidity (that's the best way to describe it), and Beckett's hurt feelings almost get in the way. I guess I can't really sum up my feelings other than I liked the story.
Copy provided by Forever Romance
When I started The Last Cowboy in Texas, I wasn't sure if I was going to like the story. It all boils down to Starlet. At the beginning of the story she's the country music princess, and she wore it like armor. From the previous books she changed her image to the point that she didn't recognize herself. She made it hard to like the new image she was portraying, and I kind of felt the same way as Beckett. Beckett saw her has a spoil brat. She doesn't help her case in the story. Seriously, some of the things she did were horrible. It wasn't until I got more in the book that I realize that she was lost and didn't know how to find herself. Now Beckett, is the youngest Cates brothers, and he wasn't like the others. So, when he went off to the marines he change, and he wasn't the same guy when he left Bramble.
During the story, you see Starlet and Beckett basically taking one another's head-off. You know how sometimes when you can't stand one person, but it's actual the opposite. It's more like they don't know how to handle their feelings for one another, so it comes off as dislike. We see a lot of that throughout the story, and we can't forget the craziness that happens in Bramble. Overall, I did like The Last Cowboy in Texas, because you have a love-hate relationship between Beckett and Starlet. However, Starlet almost ruins it with stupidity (that's the best way to describe it), and Beckett's hurt feelings almost get in the way. I guess I can't really sum up my feelings other than I liked the story.
Copy provided by Forever Romance
December 21, 2014
Reviewed on Behalf of Give Me Books
Bramble was a happily-ever-after kind of place. A place where hearts healed. A place where dreams came true. A perfect place to call home.” *Sigh!* This book made me want to move to the South; all the southern charm, the neighborly gossip, the true friendships, and of course the HOT cowboys.
Beckett is not only the hero of the story; he is also a southern cowboy and former Marine. Ovaries explode! He is caring to a fault and has only recently returned home after a tour in Afghanistan. Star Bentley, the famous country singer is hiding from herself. Formerly known as Starlet Brubaker, she turned herself into a world famous singer who did what everyone else wanted or expected of her. She had a rough childhood and was a small town girl at heart. Being kidnapped and ending up coming home was one of the best things that ever happened to her.
I loved the small town feel of this book. Everybody knew everybody’s business, but that is what kept the town running. I loved how we got to see so many different townsfolk and their issues as well.
The tension between Beckett and Starlet was sizzling. There was always an underlying lust accompanying their dislike for one another. The jungle room scene was amazing! But of course there is a thin line between love and hate.
This book really had it all; it was funny, charming, sexy, sweet, and full of action. There were so many twists and turns that I did not expect. And there were so many cowboys! “Henhouse rule number fifty-one states: Never let a good cowboy get away.” This was a fantastic read and I couldn’t put it down! (4.5 stars)
Bramble was a happily-ever-after kind of place. A place where hearts healed. A place where dreams came true. A perfect place to call home.” *Sigh!* This book made me want to move to the South; all the southern charm, the neighborly gossip, the true friendships, and of course the HOT cowboys.
Beckett is not only the hero of the story; he is also a southern cowboy and former Marine. Ovaries explode! He is caring to a fault and has only recently returned home after a tour in Afghanistan. Star Bentley, the famous country singer is hiding from herself. Formerly known as Starlet Brubaker, she turned herself into a world famous singer who did what everyone else wanted or expected of her. She had a rough childhood and was a small town girl at heart. Being kidnapped and ending up coming home was one of the best things that ever happened to her.
I loved the small town feel of this book. Everybody knew everybody’s business, but that is what kept the town running. I loved how we got to see so many different townsfolk and their issues as well.
The tension between Beckett and Starlet was sizzling. There was always an underlying lust accompanying their dislike for one another. The jungle room scene was amazing! But of course there is a thin line between love and hate.
This book really had it all; it was funny, charming, sexy, sweet, and full of action. There were so many twists and turns that I did not expect. And there were so many cowboys! “Henhouse rule number fifty-one states: Never let a good cowboy get away.” This was a fantastic read and I couldn’t put it down! (4.5 stars)
December 29, 2016
3.75
Exit Starlet Brubaker, the insecure gal we met in Trouble in Texas. Welcome, Star Bentley, popular country singer who have to hide from her manager to indulge in sweets. Beckett Cates is not the geeky genius we knew either. Now a buff Marine, well, ex-Marine now, he's back and right on time to see one of Star's show. After being discharged and Star is (almost) kidnapped, he will have no other choice but to ensure her safety and being near her without touching her is a whole new challenge. But Beckett doesn't want the country Star. He wants Starlet. We will learn what really happened, or didn't, between them before her ascension to stardom.But someone from Starlet past is determined to get revenge. And what's with the new cowboys in town ?
At first I wasn't so sure about the proposition because even though I like the bodyguard idea, it doesn't always make a good story. There's a few details that were gross (like Starlet's mother hitting on Beckett or her cousin lusting after her), and some that were awkward and lame (like the fact Star still had a crush on Beckett's brother after all this time and that she was trying to break his marriage). But surprisingly, it didn't ruin the book for me. Is it because I'm used to Katie Lane way to make things different and not always conventional or because Beckett and Star made interesting characters ? Probably both. But I think it was good because this book, just like the folks in Bramble, have heart.
It's always fun to see Billy, Shirlene and the kids again and with this one being the last volume of the series, I think the author did a good job at giving us a little something about each couples and the people in town.
Exit Starlet Brubaker, the insecure gal we met in Trouble in Texas. Welcome, Star Bentley, popular country singer who have to hide from her manager to indulge in sweets. Beckett Cates is not the geeky genius we knew either. Now a buff Marine, well, ex-Marine now, he's back and right on time to see one of Star's show. After being discharged and Star is (almost) kidnapped, he will have no other choice but to ensure her safety and being near her without touching her is a whole new challenge. But Beckett doesn't want the country Star. He wants Starlet. We will learn what really happened, or didn't, between them before her ascension to stardom.But someone from Starlet past is determined to get revenge. And what's with the new cowboys in town ?
At first I wasn't so sure about the proposition because even though I like the bodyguard idea, it doesn't always make a good story. There's a few details that were gross (like Starlet's mother hitting on Beckett or her cousin lusting after her), and some that were awkward and lame (like the fact Star still had a crush on Beckett's brother after all this time and that she was trying to break his marriage). But surprisingly, it didn't ruin the book for me. Is it because I'm used to Katie Lane way to make things different and not always conventional or because Beckett and Star made interesting characters ? Probably both. But I think it was good because this book, just like the folks in Bramble, have heart.
It's always fun to see Billy, Shirlene and the kids again and with this one being the last volume of the series, I think the author did a good job at giving us a little something about each couples and the people in town.
November 30, 2014
http://www.cocktailsandbooks.com/
I received a copy of this book to write an honest review for Netgalley and Cocktails and Books.
Country music star, Star Bentley has lost control of her life. The problem is she has a hard time saying no and she allows everyone to take advantage of her. Her family is self-absorbed and only with her because she supports them. Then there is her manager, a control freak who insists on micromanaging Star’s every move. Star isn’t happy with her life, but isn’t sure how to change it. After her latest tour, Star returns to her small hometown of Bramble, Texas and encounters Beckett Cates.
Beckett grew up in Bramble and has known Star his entire life. He was a skinny nerd until he joined the Marines and now the geeky kid is a gorgeous man. Star has mixed feeling about Beckett. While she’s attracted to his good looks and incredible body, she’s not sure she can trust him. Beckett’s a nice guy with an easy going way about him and he immediately puts Star at ease. Beckett is different from everyone else in her life, he accepts Star for who she is and doesn’t try to control her, or make any demands.
There is never a dull moment in this quirky story featuring Beckett and Star, but also interspersed with subplots about many of the zany characters living in Bramble. I liked Beckett and Star; they care about one another, but dance around their feelings because their afraid of being hurt.
I received a copy of this book to write an honest review for Netgalley and Cocktails and Books.
Country music star, Star Bentley has lost control of her life. The problem is she has a hard time saying no and she allows everyone to take advantage of her. Her family is self-absorbed and only with her because she supports them. Then there is her manager, a control freak who insists on micromanaging Star’s every move. Star isn’t happy with her life, but isn’t sure how to change it. After her latest tour, Star returns to her small hometown of Bramble, Texas and encounters Beckett Cates.
Beckett grew up in Bramble and has known Star his entire life. He was a skinny nerd until he joined the Marines and now the geeky kid is a gorgeous man. Star has mixed feeling about Beckett. While she’s attracted to his good looks and incredible body, she’s not sure she can trust him. Beckett’s a nice guy with an easy going way about him and he immediately puts Star at ease. Beckett is different from everyone else in her life, he accepts Star for who she is and doesn’t try to control her, or make any demands.
There is never a dull moment in this quirky story featuring Beckett and Star, but also interspersed with subplots about many of the zany characters living in Bramble. I liked Beckett and Star; they care about one another, but dance around their feelings because their afraid of being hurt.
February 18, 2015
"Bramble was a happily-ever-after kind of place. A place where hearts healed. A place where dreams came true. A perfect place to call home."
The best thing about The Last Cowboy in Texas was seeing those minor characters I've loved get their happily-ever-afters. Kenny Gene, Rachel, Twyla, Mayor Sutter and core characters from other books returning for short mentions.
I wasn't as connected to Starlet and Beckett as I should have been, but I attribute that to the fact I didn't read book five, Flirting with Texas, which features Starlet's crush, Beau. I felt any connection Starlet had with Beckett would have begun in that book. I also don't believe there was a lot of strife or tension between Starlet and Beckett, certainly not enough to sustain my attention for an entire book, which is probably why minor characters were featured so heavily.
What I really wanted to happen was for Starlet to kick her family and her manager out of her life. I'm not sure how she can excude so much confidence on stage, yet manage to be so timid and meek in every-day dealings.
As it were, things ended in Bramble exactly how they should have, and I'm happy to have been along for the ride.
(A very special thank you to Forever Romance, Grand Central Publishing, and NetGalley for providing me with an ARC of The Last Cowboy in Texas.)
The best thing about The Last Cowboy in Texas was seeing those minor characters I've loved get their happily-ever-afters. Kenny Gene, Rachel, Twyla, Mayor Sutter and core characters from other books returning for short mentions.
I wasn't as connected to Starlet and Beckett as I should have been, but I attribute that to the fact I didn't read book five, Flirting with Texas, which features Starlet's crush, Beau. I felt any connection Starlet had with Beckett would have begun in that book. I also don't believe there was a lot of strife or tension between Starlet and Beckett, certainly not enough to sustain my attention for an entire book, which is probably why minor characters were featured so heavily.
What I really wanted to happen was for Starlet to kick her family and her manager out of her life. I'm not sure how she can excude so much confidence on stage, yet manage to be so timid and meek in every-day dealings.
As it were, things ended in Bramble exactly how they should have, and I'm happy to have been along for the ride.
(A very special thank you to Forever Romance, Grand Central Publishing, and NetGalley for providing me with an ARC of The Last Cowboy in Texas.)
December 19, 2014
Country music star, Star Bentley has lost control of her life. The problem is she has a hard time saying no and she allows everyone to take advantage of her. Her family is self-absorbed and only with her because she supports them. Then there is her manager, a control freak who insists on micromanaging Star’s every move. Star isn’t happy with her life, but isn’t sure how to change it. After her latest tour, Star returns to her small hometown of Bramble, Texas and encounters Beckett Cates.
Beckett grew up in Bramble and has known Star his entire life. He was a skinny nerd until he joined the Marines and now the geeky kid is a gorgeous man. Star has mixed feeling about Beckett. While she’s attracted to his good looks and incredible body, she’s not sure she can trust him. Beckett’s a nice guy with an easy going way about him and he immediately puts Star at ease. Beckett is different from everyone else in her life, he accepts Star for who she is and doesn’t try to control her, or make any demands.
There is never a dull moment in this quirky story featuring Beckett and Star, but also interspersed with subplots about many of the zany characters living in Bramble. I liked Beckett and Star; they care about one another, but dance around their feelings because their afraid of being hurt.
Reviewed by Karen for Cocktails and Books
Beckett grew up in Bramble and has known Star his entire life. He was a skinny nerd until he joined the Marines and now the geeky kid is a gorgeous man. Star has mixed feeling about Beckett. While she’s attracted to his good looks and incredible body, she’s not sure she can trust him. Beckett’s a nice guy with an easy going way about him and he immediately puts Star at ease. Beckett is different from everyone else in her life, he accepts Star for who she is and doesn’t try to control her, or make any demands.
There is never a dull moment in this quirky story featuring Beckett and Star, but also interspersed with subplots about many of the zany characters living in Bramble. I liked Beckett and Star; they care about one another, but dance around their feelings because their afraid of being hurt.
Reviewed by Karen for Cocktails and Books
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