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Texas Wilders #1
Clara Knows Best
“Stop looking at my mouth, Clara.”
“I’m not,” she said immediately.
“You want me to kiss you or something?”
“Of course not,” she said, but her chocolatey brown eyes said the exact opposite.
Once upon a time, I was the foster brother Clara lived to annoy, but it's been years since I went no-contact with her family and a lot has changed since then. Now I'm back in this small West Texas town for three weeks, a successful trauma surgeon with a bone to pick.
I've been trying not to notice how very not-annoying the Wilders' spoiled little princess has become, but it's an uphill battle. Clara doesn't know the details of my falling-out with her parents, but I haven't forgotten their heartbreaking betrayal, and I can't afford to get distracted by purple nail polish and cute pajamas.
But something about Clara has me jumping half-naked into an icy lake, picking a fight with an oil rig worker, and pulling off a couple of small miracles. If all I wanted was to get a little closure and hightail it back to the big city, why am I dragging my cowboy boots about leaving? (And why am I wearing a Stetson?)
No matter how hard I fight the attraction heating up between us, all my doubts about the past and plans for the future are merging into a question that only Clara can answer.
“I’m not,” she said immediately.
“You want me to kiss you or something?”
“Of course not,” she said, but her chocolatey brown eyes said the exact opposite.
Once upon a time, I was the foster brother Clara lived to annoy, but it's been years since I went no-contact with her family and a lot has changed since then. Now I'm back in this small West Texas town for three weeks, a successful trauma surgeon with a bone to pick.
I've been trying not to notice how very not-annoying the Wilders' spoiled little princess has become, but it's an uphill battle. Clara doesn't know the details of my falling-out with her parents, but I haven't forgotten their heartbreaking betrayal, and I can't afford to get distracted by purple nail polish and cute pajamas.
But something about Clara has me jumping half-naked into an icy lake, picking a fight with an oil rig worker, and pulling off a couple of small miracles. If all I wanted was to get a little closure and hightail it back to the big city, why am I dragging my cowboy boots about leaving? (And why am I wearing a Stetson?)
No matter how hard I fight the attraction heating up between us, all my doubts about the past and plans for the future are merging into a question that only Clara can answer.
265 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 1, 2025
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Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews
December 5, 2025
Clara Knows Best by Jade Behr (Texas Wilders, #1) is a warm, small‑town romance about Clara Wilder, a spirited young woman whose life in West Texas gets delightfully complicated when Jesse Flores, her family’s former foster child and her childhood crush, returns home as a successful trauma surgeon carrying hurt from the past, tangled feelings for Clara, and a reluctance to face old wounds even as his heart begins to soften around her again.
Right from the start I was charmed by Clara’s effervescent personality, her colorful wardrobe, and the way she throws herself into everyday life with humor and heart, even when those everyday moments involve awkward drives and impulsive coffee offers. Watching Jesse navigate his return to the Wilder household had me genuinely invested in his inner struggle between old pain and new possibilities, and the slow‑burn chemistry between him and Clara felt grounded, sincere, and deeply rewarding to witness. There’s something so endearing about the way this story explores healing, belonging, and the idea that sometimes the right person has been close all along. I also loved the vivid sense of place, from dusty roads to ranchyard conversations, which made the setting feel like another character in the story.
Rating: 4 out of 5
This romance made my heart feel full with moments of laughter, tender realizations, and that comforting sense of coming home, even when home isn’t quite what you expected. The pacing leaned gently into the emotions without rushing, and while a few plot beats were familiar to small‑town romance fans, the authenticity of the characters and the warmth of their connection made this a truly delightful read.
Right from the start I was charmed by Clara’s effervescent personality, her colorful wardrobe, and the way she throws herself into everyday life with humor and heart, even when those everyday moments involve awkward drives and impulsive coffee offers. Watching Jesse navigate his return to the Wilder household had me genuinely invested in his inner struggle between old pain and new possibilities, and the slow‑burn chemistry between him and Clara felt grounded, sincere, and deeply rewarding to witness. There’s something so endearing about the way this story explores healing, belonging, and the idea that sometimes the right person has been close all along. I also loved the vivid sense of place, from dusty roads to ranchyard conversations, which made the setting feel like another character in the story.
Rating: 4 out of 5
This romance made my heart feel full with moments of laughter, tender realizations, and that comforting sense of coming home, even when home isn’t quite what you expected. The pacing leaned gently into the emotions without rushing, and while a few plot beats were familiar to small‑town romance fans, the authenticity of the characters and the warmth of their connection made this a truly delightful read.
January 28, 2025
I absolutely loved this Smalltown romance. It was so well written and an interesting topic that I hadn't really read before. The world building and family dynamics were well done and left me wanting to read Eve's story too. Will definitely be going back for me from these authors.
Some things I loved
• Jesse is a good guy. He's surly and thinks that he doesn't care but he's the first to jump up to go out of his way to help Clara
• Clara's high maintenance personality should have been annoying, but her characters so well written and shes got such a sweet heart that she becomes loveable instead.
• Normally not a fan of third person but this was done really well and in a way that you still felt like you were going along with the characters thoughts and understood what they were feeling and why they were acting whatever way
• Miscommunications are sorted out at a good time in the story, enough to build intrigue without drawing out the whole story, leaving plenty of time for bonding and healing after
Some things I loved
• Jesse is a good guy. He's surly and thinks that he doesn't care but he's the first to jump up to go out of his way to help Clara
• Clara's high maintenance personality should have been annoying, but her characters so well written and shes got such a sweet heart that she becomes loveable instead.
• Normally not a fan of third person but this was done really well and in a way that you still felt like you were going along with the characters thoughts and understood what they were feeling and why they were acting whatever way
• Miscommunications are sorted out at a good time in the story, enough to build intrigue without drawing out the whole story, leaving plenty of time for bonding and healing after
January 30, 2025
I liked the blurb and that was the reason for me picking up this book. But the writing of the book wasn't for me. The main characters felt way too flat and all that they were feeling was just told and never shown.
I didn't like how Jesse kept saying Shut Up to Clara and why she was even talking to him when he was so rude.
For someone who had a crush on Jesse, she doesn't feel anything for him when she is doing his facial or entering the washroom when he is shirtless? I felt that these moments were where the emotions should have come out, but they didn't.
Also the obsession with "ovulating"? What a way to deny and belittle the emotions.
The author also introduced too many characters too soon and it was difficult keeping up with them.
Definitely not for me. But might be someone else's cup of tea.
I didn't like how Jesse kept saying Shut Up to Clara and why she was even talking to him when he was so rude.
For someone who had a crush on Jesse, she doesn't feel anything for him when she is doing his facial or entering the washroom when he is shirtless? I felt that these moments were where the emotions should have come out, but they didn't.
Also the obsession with "ovulating"? What a way to deny and belittle the emotions.
The author also introduced too many characters too soon and it was difficult keeping up with them.
Definitely not for me. But might be someone else's cup of tea.
January 27, 2025
5 out of 5 stars. Y'all don't want to miss out on this book when it comes out February 1. Closed door sweet romcom that will keep you laughing with several heartfelt moments that will keep you wanting more from beginning to end!! Jade and Blue honestly outdid themselves with this book!! I can't wait to read the next book in this series!!
January 28, 2025
I had to DNF at 56 %. I have enjoyed so many books by these authors, but this one was different. Such a dramatic change from their normal clean and wholesome books.
I found it challenging to continue reading due to the frequent mentions of alcohol consumption and being under the influence. The reference to so many tequila shots was overwhelming, and I was particularly concerned when Tramadol, an opioid, was brought up. It felt like the narrative was inadvertently glamorizing drinking and drug use. For these reasons, I wouldn’t consider this book suitable for myself or my daughters.
I found it challenging to continue reading due to the frequent mentions of alcohol consumption and being under the influence. The reference to so many tequila shots was overwhelming, and I was particularly concerned when Tramadol, an opioid, was brought up. It felt like the narrative was inadvertently glamorizing drinking and drug use. For these reasons, I wouldn’t consider this book suitable for myself or my daughters.
February 2, 2025
This was my first time reading and reviewing for Jade & Blue, and I was not disappointed.
This story read cute and light despite some heaviness, and I really enjoyed it. Jesse plays the grump without being mean, and you find yourself wanting to reach through the pages and just hug the guy. His story does improve once he starts getting hugs, though, and those are some of the best moments in the story.
Clara draws Jesse, like a moth to a flame, but he genuinely fights the draw for a long time. I love the healthy parent dynamic in the Wilder family that helps Clara see a path forward. She pines so hard for Jesse, and she maybe even crosses a line every now and again. But you love her for it, and eventually Jesse does too.
“Since when do you even want Clara?” “Since she extracted my blackheads,” he answered without thinking.
I loved this small town, grumpy-sunshine romance.
I received a complimentary copy of the authors' story to read without the expectation of a positive review. All thoughts contained here are my own.
This story read cute and light despite some heaviness, and I really enjoyed it. Jesse plays the grump without being mean, and you find yourself wanting to reach through the pages and just hug the guy. His story does improve once he starts getting hugs, though, and those are some of the best moments in the story.
Clara draws Jesse, like a moth to a flame, but he genuinely fights the draw for a long time. I love the healthy parent dynamic in the Wilder family that helps Clara see a path forward. She pines so hard for Jesse, and she maybe even crosses a line every now and again. But you love her for it, and eventually Jesse does too.
“Since when do you even want Clara?” “Since she extracted my blackheads,” he answered without thinking.
I loved this small town, grumpy-sunshine romance.
I received a complimentary copy of the authors' story to read without the expectation of a positive review. All thoughts contained here are my own.
January 29, 2025
Clara had a crush on Jesse when he lived with them years ago. Now her mother has persuaded him to come back and cover the local clinic while she isn't able to work. Clara works as the practice manager which he doesn't know!
He's attracted to her but is determined to go back to his job at the hospital, with the possibility of a promotion.
Clara is a bit obsessed with her clothes and what goes with what but, she helps everyone and has a good heart.
Jesse has always felt not part of the family so hasn't made many friends, keeping himself to himself.
An amusing and emotional read from Blue Jade.
He's attracted to her but is determined to go back to his job at the hospital, with the possibility of a promotion.
Clara is a bit obsessed with her clothes and what goes with what but, she helps everyone and has a good heart.
Jesse has always felt not part of the family so hasn't made many friends, keeping himself to himself.
An amusing and emotional read from Blue Jade.
February 8, 2025
clara knows best
3 ✨
overview: I’ve given every single book I’ve read prior of these authors a four star or above… I think part of why I didn’t enjoy this one is because the content, although not inappropriate, isn’t as clean, pure, or sweet as the others. There was more written physical attraction, a lot of mentions of bars, drinking, and more “new age” ideas… as well as the main character’s personalities + romance didn’t work for me at all. Very disappointing.
characters: Clara was feisty and sweet and fashionable; I wasn’t necessarily annoyed by her but I also wasn’t in love with her character.
Jesse was hot and protective, don’t get me wrong — but sometimes he made comments that kinda rubbed me the wrong way and I’m not exactly sure why. Sometimes I just rolled my eyes at his attitude. Like he mentioned to her face that Clara was “probably ovulating”. And he told her to “shut up” several times; I can take a joke but it felt a bit much.
I didn’t even love the side characters, except the brothers and their dynamic…
romance: I think the romance wasn’t as slow burn as I wanted and there wasn’t enough tension for me… I usually love how the authors write the romances, they can be random and a lil wacky in the best way!! But this unfortunately didn’t work for me, it felt a bit forced and odd.
✨ childhood friends
✨ forced proximity
✨ grumpy x sunshine
writing: easy to read, interesting, and fresh.
atmosphere: small town vibes and shenanigans, big family in a cozy house, Spanish foods, plenty of Valentine’s Day’s content.
season: late winter.
———
content: language (p*ss, used once; skank used once). sexual (innocent touches and kisses, NO SPICE). other (some medical content, barely detailed injuries; There was a mention of Clara manifesting something which was very out of pocket; mentions of baby daddies, drugs, drinking).
———
💌PS (I LOVE YOU)
— Kirsten <3
3 ✨
overview: I’ve given every single book I’ve read prior of these authors a four star or above… I think part of why I didn’t enjoy this one is because the content, although not inappropriate, isn’t as clean, pure, or sweet as the others. There was more written physical attraction, a lot of mentions of bars, drinking, and more “new age” ideas… as well as the main character’s personalities + romance didn’t work for me at all. Very disappointing.
characters: Clara was feisty and sweet and fashionable; I wasn’t necessarily annoyed by her but I also wasn’t in love with her character.
Jesse was hot and protective, don’t get me wrong — but sometimes he made comments that kinda rubbed me the wrong way and I’m not exactly sure why. Sometimes I just rolled my eyes at his attitude. Like he mentioned to her face that Clara was “probably ovulating”. And he told her to “shut up” several times; I can take a joke but it felt a bit much.
I didn’t even love the side characters, except the brothers and their dynamic…
romance: I think the romance wasn’t as slow burn as I wanted and there wasn’t enough tension for me… I usually love how the authors write the romances, they can be random and a lil wacky in the best way!! But this unfortunately didn’t work for me, it felt a bit forced and odd.
✨ childhood friends
✨ forced proximity
✨ grumpy x sunshine
writing: easy to read, interesting, and fresh.
atmosphere: small town vibes and shenanigans, big family in a cozy house, Spanish foods, plenty of Valentine’s Day’s content.
season: late winter.
———
content: language (p*ss, used once; skank used once). sexual (innocent touches and kisses, NO SPICE). other (some medical content, barely detailed injuries; There was a mention of Clara manifesting something which was very out of pocket; mentions of baby daddies, drugs, drinking).
———
💌PS (I LOVE YOU)
— Kirsten <3
January 30, 2025
Small town romance makes you fall in love with this community. Such a good read. Perfect Valentine’s Day romance.
April 8, 2025
This sweet, humorous, pull on the heartstrings, and deeply emotional rom com was a delight to read!
Jesse Flores finds himself returning to his former small west Texas hometown after many years of no contact from his foster family, the Wilders. After a gruesome falling out with his foster parents, Jesse wants to help fill in as a doctor at the local practice, and then hightail it back to his job as surgeon in the big city. However, Clara Wilder has other plans. When given the task of picking up Jesse at the airport, Clara is soon reminded that her past childhood crush on Jesse Flores is indeed a real thing. And that she just might hold the key to unlocking his heart, but must do so carefully and patiently. Jesse finds himself looking out for Clara in ways he hadn’t before, and it leads him to consider a new path for his life that he didn’t think possible. Maybe, just maybe, Clara, with her painted nails, fashionista outfits, iced coffee, and heartfelt scheming, does know best.
I absolutely loved this story and cannot wait for the next one!
Romantic Content: Mildly Descriptive Kisses, Attraction Mildly Described, Brief Joking Statements about Ovulating
TW: Stalker, Abandonment, Trauma, PTSD
Jesse Flores finds himself returning to his former small west Texas hometown after many years of no contact from his foster family, the Wilders. After a gruesome falling out with his foster parents, Jesse wants to help fill in as a doctor at the local practice, and then hightail it back to his job as surgeon in the big city. However, Clara Wilder has other plans. When given the task of picking up Jesse at the airport, Clara is soon reminded that her past childhood crush on Jesse Flores is indeed a real thing. And that she just might hold the key to unlocking his heart, but must do so carefully and patiently. Jesse finds himself looking out for Clara in ways he hadn’t before, and it leads him to consider a new path for his life that he didn’t think possible. Maybe, just maybe, Clara, with her painted nails, fashionista outfits, iced coffee, and heartfelt scheming, does know best.
I absolutely loved this story and cannot wait for the next one!
Romantic Content: Mildly Descriptive Kisses, Attraction Mildly Described, Brief Joking Statements about Ovulating
TW: Stalker, Abandonment, Trauma, PTSD
April 13, 2025
Clara Knows Best is another rom-com hit by authors Blue Huxley and Jade Behr. For real guys, if you're a fan of them already, then you know you're in great hands for all things laughs, sibling banter, swoony romance, shenanigans, family dynamics, and so on. If you're not, you must be aware that Clara is high maintenance and has the nickname "Princess" for a reason, while Jesse was her foster brother for 3 years when she was a girl into her preadolescent years (9-12). I loved all the references to how her nine-year-old self would react to Jesse's attention and so on, but I also enjoyed them getting reacquainted as adults (there's a six-year gap between them). Yes, our Hero has some baggage since he ended up in the system (due to his mother being absent and/or horrible to him, so that means he's not so well developed on the emotional side as opposed to his medical abilities) and that's why he needs time to process things before taking a decision/action. Add into that a toxic ex, and there are certainly quite a few things to untangle. Still, despite the seriousness of these topics (and the authors do treat it accordingly), it also has humor, family love, and the best siblings who made me miss them as soon as the trip was over.
Clara can be a lot sometimes but she comes from a good place with good intentions, has a fashion sense I don't understand or relate to (though I wouldn't oppose also getting a facial/spa treatment), and despite everything, made me root for her and her nine-year-old self. Her moments with Jesse were the best, from her love and care for him, to her belief that he could do things he didn't want to promise her, to all the banter and teasing. Honestly, the only reason for my rating is a couple ofminor? things from the content, which was the alcohol/beer consumption, and the "manifestation". These are very minor things in the grand scheme of the whole of this book, so if they are not an issue for you, you might have found your next 5-star read. 😉
As for me, I'm just really excited about this series being long and all about the Wilders, so I can't wait for Birdie's story!! ~ 4.75 stars
Clara can be a lot sometimes but she comes from a good place with good intentions, has a fashion sense I don't understand or relate to (though I wouldn't oppose also getting a facial/spa treatment), and despite everything, made me root for her and her nine-year-old self. Her moments with Jesse were the best, from her love and care for him, to her belief that he could do things he didn't want to promise her, to all the banter and teasing. Honestly, the only reason for my rating is a couple of
As for me, I'm just really excited about this series being long and all about the Wilders, so I can't wait for Birdie's story!! ~ 4.75 stars
February 3, 2025
This is so cute!!! And perfect for the upcoming Valentines Day!
Clara’s foster brother is back in town and all grown up. Jesse thinks Clara is a spoiled princess and is just there to help out at the medical practice. Can the rift between Jesse and the family be mended? Will Clara finally get over her crush?
Highlights:
Loved the sibling time at the cabin.
The poker night was fun
Clara is a spirit gardener 😁🌸
I love Clara for her confidence. I love that she makes her own clothes and that she is generous with her skills and abilities.
I love Jesse for his quiet nature. I love how he is protective and observant, always looking out for Clara.
“Patience and friendship might not seem like much of a master plan, but if that was what Jesse needed most from her right now, then that was what he was going to get. Luckily, poking fun at him was almost as fun as kissing him.”
This was an ARC, all opinions and thoughts are my own.
Clara’s foster brother is back in town and all grown up. Jesse thinks Clara is a spoiled princess and is just there to help out at the medical practice. Can the rift between Jesse and the family be mended? Will Clara finally get over her crush?
Highlights:
Loved the sibling time at the cabin.
The poker night was fun
Clara is a spirit gardener 😁🌸
I love Clara for her confidence. I love that she makes her own clothes and that she is generous with her skills and abilities.
I love Jesse for his quiet nature. I love how he is protective and observant, always looking out for Clara.
“Patience and friendship might not seem like much of a master plan, but if that was what Jesse needed most from her right now, then that was what he was going to get. Luckily, poking fun at him was almost as fun as kissing him.”
This was an ARC, all opinions and thoughts are my own.
May 9, 2025
I find this book so cute. I may have laughed at some parts!(:
Clara’s childhood crush is coming back home to help her mother in her Drs office. Jesse wasnt to happy to help Dr. Wilder and thought it was strange she would have him come help her in the office.
Clara and Jesse’s story was so cute. I enjoyed the characters. It was fun to read about the history they had of growing up. A foster brother and sister falling for each other after running into each other after 6 years. To being a protective friend, to falling for each other. 💕 I am excited to read the next book in the series! And more from the authors. They do wonderful highly recommend ❤️
Clara’s childhood crush is coming back home to help her mother in her Drs office. Jesse wasnt to happy to help Dr. Wilder and thought it was strange she would have him come help her in the office.
Clara and Jesse’s story was so cute. I enjoyed the characters. It was fun to read about the history they had of growing up. A foster brother and sister falling for each other after running into each other after 6 years. To being a protective friend, to falling for each other. 💕 I am excited to read the next book in the series! And more from the authors. They do wonderful highly recommend ❤️
February 1, 2025
Part of an interconnected series but can be read as a standalone. She's had a crush on him for years. They lost contact for part of the time but he's back now. Why is he back and what happened to cause the no contact? Will she get what she wants now?
I received a copy of this book from the author. Review voluntarily given
I received a copy of this book from the author. Review voluntarily given
February 6, 2025
What a fun, sweet book! Clara and Jesse have such different personalities but blend together. Love the depth we get to see. Great story!
February 22, 2025
I enjoyed reading this book!
April 6, 2026
Fantastic!
I absolutely loved this book! The characters, the banter, all if it! So good. Will definitely be reading more from these authors.
I absolutely loved this book! The characters, the banter, all if it! So good. Will definitely be reading more from these authors.
December 7, 2025
3.5 stars. Cute romance with loving family to support the MCs.
Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews