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Texas Rodeo #5
Mistletoe in Texas
He's always been the black sheep: the troublemaker.
But this Christmas, the prodigal cowboy returns.
Rodeo bullfighter Hank Brookman was headed straight for the top. But after a single misstep resulted in devastating injury, he disappeared under a mountain of regrets. Now he's back, ready to face the loved ones he left behind-starting with the one girl his heart could never forget.
When Hank stormed out of Texas, he left Grace McKenna picking up the pieces...and struggling with a secret that changed everything. He may be back looking for redemption, but after everything they've been through, how can she admit what he really walked away from all those years ago?
Hank always knew persuading Grace to trust him again would be a tall order. Convincing her they deserve a happily ever after? That may take a Texas-sized Christmas miracle.
But this Christmas, the prodigal cowboy returns.
Rodeo bullfighter Hank Brookman was headed straight for the top. But after a single misstep resulted in devastating injury, he disappeared under a mountain of regrets. Now he's back, ready to face the loved ones he left behind-starting with the one girl his heart could never forget.
When Hank stormed out of Texas, he left Grace McKenna picking up the pieces...and struggling with a secret that changed everything. He may be back looking for redemption, but after everything they've been through, how can she admit what he really walked away from all those years ago?
Hank always knew persuading Grace to trust him again would be a tall order. Convincing her they deserve a happily ever after? That may take a Texas-sized Christmas miracle.
528 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published September 25, 2018
204 people are currently reading
444 people want to read
About the author
Kari Lynn Dell
11 books275 followersKari Lynn Dell is a native of north central Montana, a third generation ranch-raised cowgirl, horse trainer and rodeo competitor, most recently the 2017 Canadian Senior Pro Rodeo Breakaway Roping season champion. She attended her first rodeo at two weeks old and has existed in a state of horse-induced poverty ever since. She currently resides on the family ranch on the Blackfeet Reservation, loitering in her parents’ bunkhouse along with her husband, son and Max and Spike the Cowdogs, with a tipi on the front step, a view of Glacier National Park from her writing desk and Canada within spitting distance.
Come visit at KariLynnDell.com and sign up for the newsletter to get first shot at early releases, special prizes and bonus content, and keep current on what's next on the publication front
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 95 reviews
March 26, 2019
Reviewed for herding cats & burning soup. (posting to blog 12/2019)
Amazon: https://amzn.to/2HH8yKp
What an utter disappointment. Both Mistletoe in Texas AND the author herself. Before I get into the review I want to note that after I posted my review to Goodreads last year the author went on her Facebook page complaining and sending readers over to Goodreads to try and manipulate the ratings in order to move my review lower in the ranks as well as having people flag my account. Charming behavior, really. She is no longer on my recommend list even for the books I absolutely adored by her. This is abhorrent behavior by an author and her apology was simply an attempt to cover her ass and bad behavior.
Now the review...
Mistletoe in Texas would be an awesome read...if every single scene with the heroine was eliminated.
The Gist: Hank's life with the rodeo fell apart due to some less than stellar moments and he's had some dark days since then. Hurt his best friend's feelings after they slept together and then went to hide out in the wilds to pull himself together again. She in turn decided to hide the fact she was pregnant, adopted out their child and swore all of the people important to him to secrecy.
So Hank. He's a young guy who's not always made the best life choices. But's hard not to like him. He's screwed up for sure but is making the effort to fix what he's done. Mend fences, put himself out there, apologizing to his girl. He's a good man. Or trying to become one, anyways.
Grace on the other hand is a waste of space. There's nothing special or redeeming about her. She's hidden a baby, adopted it out (really she, in essence, sold the kid for 80ish grand) and tries to play the victim. I had absolutely no use for her. She gave nothing back to anyone in her life even though it's made out like she does. Meh
I did not believe this romance for one single second. At 84% in when the hero is excitedly telling her about the changes he's made and wanting to stay she legit thinks "It would have been so much simpler if he’d just packed up and disappeared again."
When she finally does come clean about what she did it's in the most ridiculous way and then less than 12 hours later he's totally fine with all the lies, the shady adoption (the gay couple/their family decide to 'risk it' because they have money and the hero has nothing) and her swearing his family and sponsor to secrecy over the kid.
Honestly I think this is a breakup book for me and Dell as an author. (well it definitely is after what the author pulled) I didn't enjoy the romance one single bit, the ridiculous addition of her family as an over the top religious nut house, politics coming into play when they didn't need to , all the social justice warrior quips and inclusions. It's sad because the first 3 books were great. Book 3 is one of my all time favorites. This book, though, felt like it was written by someone else with a lot less experience and a chip on their shoulder. Disappointing.
Now. What was awesome about the book? Hank and his dad. An estranged relationship and two broken men deciding to put the past in the past and try to change thing between them. To actually have a healthy relationship and learn to be around each other. To love each other. Be a support for one another. That was amazing and touching. If only the book had focused entirely on that and left Grace out of things. She ruined this one completely.
June 24, 2018
Having read this series from the beginning...and remembering the cocky young Hank paired up with the veteran Joe, and that first back if the head slap from the latter to the former...finally Hank having his own story was so well worth the wait...the author has out done herself in the range of emotions this story brought about.
The memories evoked of the young Hank, to his appearance again when he turned up at Bing’s and the transformation to the Hank who came back was so very gratifying to say the least. How Ms Dell was able to create such a character who swung the pendulum through the series is once again a testament to her story telling talent. In Hank is a character who initially made me smile and then brake my heart at his spiral downward, to his charming me with his gentleness where Grace was concerned and then finally his abilities to recognize the amends he needed to make and the effort at overcoming them...especially with his father. Wow! Talk about pulling at the heartstrings. I cannot put into words the changes between Hank and his father...it can only be experienced within the pages of this story.
Throughout the story, leading up to Hank’s stories, I felt myself being weaved through the truths of Hank and Grace’s lives and how each person played an integral in the very heartwarming conclusion not only to story, but for each character who has made an appearance throughout. Now if only Gil could find his HEA!
This ARC book was complimentary, provided by the Publisher and NetGalley. I am voluntarily providing my honest review.
The memories evoked of the young Hank, to his appearance again when he turned up at Bing’s and the transformation to the Hank who came back was so very gratifying to say the least. How Ms Dell was able to create such a character who swung the pendulum through the series is once again a testament to her story telling talent. In Hank is a character who initially made me smile and then brake my heart at his spiral downward, to his charming me with his gentleness where Grace was concerned and then finally his abilities to recognize the amends he needed to make and the effort at overcoming them...especially with his father. Wow! Talk about pulling at the heartstrings. I cannot put into words the changes between Hank and his father...it can only be experienced within the pages of this story.
Throughout the story, leading up to Hank’s stories, I felt myself being weaved through the truths of Hank and Grace’s lives and how each person played an integral in the very heartwarming conclusion not only to story, but for each character who has made an appearance throughout. Now if only Gil could find his HEA!
This ARC book was complimentary, provided by the Publisher and NetGalley. I am voluntarily providing my honest review.
October 2, 2018
It was such a great book that I was disappointed when I reached the last page.
July 17, 2020
With an explosive storyline, Kari Lynn Dell has added another winner to her phenomenal Texas Rodeo Series!!!!
With the gifted grace of amazing talent, her fan’s are swept back into the roping arena, as only a true Rodeo competitor can deliver.
When an author can write a series that draws her readers in, makes them believe these characters are real, she has done what most cannot.
Three years ago Grace enter the Lone Steer Saloon, she had life changing news for Hank.
However, Hank’s attitude toward Grace’s arrival was anything but cordial and as she left crying, so did her secret.
Now three years later both have returned to Texas.
Grace’s secret she took to Oregon still hidden. Will she be able to finally reveal what she’s kept from Hank? Will he be able to handle the news after all this time?
As the past comes back to haunt them, can they move on and start over or is it too, heartbreaking?
Kari Lynn Dell’s ability to write such entertaining books, create such dramatic plots that carry over from one book into the next and deliver it with finesse, sets her apart.
Not only does she incorporate great Rodeo like no other, but she twists it up with truly dynamic- earth shattering storylines that will remain with her fans a lifetime.
Received an advanced copy for a fair & honest review.
With the gifted grace of amazing talent, her fan’s are swept back into the roping arena, as only a true Rodeo competitor can deliver.
When an author can write a series that draws her readers in, makes them believe these characters are real, she has done what most cannot.
Three years ago Grace enter the Lone Steer Saloon, she had life changing news for Hank.
However, Hank’s attitude toward Grace’s arrival was anything but cordial and as she left crying, so did her secret.
Now three years later both have returned to Texas.
Grace’s secret she took to Oregon still hidden. Will she be able to finally reveal what she’s kept from Hank? Will he be able to handle the news after all this time?
As the past comes back to haunt them, can they move on and start over or is it too, heartbreaking?
Kari Lynn Dell’s ability to write such entertaining books, create such dramatic plots that carry over from one book into the next and deliver it with finesse, sets her apart.
Not only does she incorporate great Rodeo like no other, but she twists it up with truly dynamic- earth shattering storylines that will remain with her fans a lifetime.
Received an advanced copy for a fair & honest review.
September 26, 2018
Finally, Hank comes home a man, the man he should be.
Mistletoe in Texas
by Kari Lynn Dell (Goodreads Author)
It was amazing!
** spoiler alert ** Received an advanced reader’s copy in exchange for an honest review.
Kari Lynn Dell has woven characters from her rodeo series into a fantastic series conclusion. Hank returns to settle his past so he can have a future. His relationship with his father becomes supporting and with time, even loving. As his father also finds a new love, the family heals. Hank's sister Melanie and her husband Wyatt are his toughest relationship to rebuild. They held secrets from him for years. Gil hires him as a truck driver and brings him home. Bing, who took him in after his career ending injury, comes to join him as he goes through his home town to recover from his past wrongs. Now he knows it all. Grace being the love of his life made his family keep the secret of his daughter from him. But, love wins over as he forgives her. This story of secrets, broken hearts, broken dreams, struggle to come back from despair and recover relationships will grip your heart and tear apart your resolve that it cannot be fixed. This one will be a crown in the series for emotional turmoil. Hank the reckless kid has become the man he was intended to be.
This series rocks from beginning to end with the stories, plots, drama, pain, joy, and characters breathing life into every situation. Hard conditions are dealt with as only a master at writing can do. It is heartfelt and memorable.
5 stars is just not enough
Mistletoe in Texas
by Kari Lynn Dell (Goodreads Author)
It was amazing!
** spoiler alert ** Received an advanced reader’s copy in exchange for an honest review.
Kari Lynn Dell has woven characters from her rodeo series into a fantastic series conclusion. Hank returns to settle his past so he can have a future. His relationship with his father becomes supporting and with time, even loving. As his father also finds a new love, the family heals. Hank's sister Melanie and her husband Wyatt are his toughest relationship to rebuild. They held secrets from him for years. Gil hires him as a truck driver and brings him home. Bing, who took him in after his career ending injury, comes to join him as he goes through his home town to recover from his past wrongs. Now he knows it all. Grace being the love of his life made his family keep the secret of his daughter from him. But, love wins over as he forgives her. This story of secrets, broken hearts, broken dreams, struggle to come back from despair and recover relationships will grip your heart and tear apart your resolve that it cannot be fixed. This one will be a crown in the series for emotional turmoil. Hank the reckless kid has become the man he was intended to be.
This series rocks from beginning to end with the stories, plots, drama, pain, joy, and characters breathing life into every situation. Hard conditions are dealt with as only a master at writing can do. It is heartfelt and memorable.
5 stars is just not enough
June 24, 2018
Mistletoe in Texas is the fifth book in the Texas Rodeo series written by author Kari Lynn Dell. Thanks to NetGalley and Sourcebooks Casablanca for the advance copy.
August 1, 2018
4.5 stars. *Trigger warning: This book deals heavily with the topic of adoption and though it was discussed and dealt with very well IMO, it may be upsetting to people that have issues with this topic.*
I was hooked on this book right from the start, and stayed hooked through the whole story, which is pretty impressive for a slower moving novel. This is a second chance romance and lots of personal baggage from the past and the present was dealt with, and I have to give my Kleenex warning for those who read in public. I liked seeing the evolution of the characters as they move past their issues. This was the 5th book in a series, which I didn't know when I picked this book. While I knew there were several back stories to the friends, I was never lost on the plot. Overall, a good story. *I received an ARC of this book from NetGalley and this is my voluntary and honest review.
I was hooked on this book right from the start, and stayed hooked through the whole story, which is pretty impressive for a slower moving novel. This is a second chance romance and lots of personal baggage from the past and the present was dealt with, and I have to give my Kleenex warning for those who read in public. I liked seeing the evolution of the characters as they move past their issues. This was the 5th book in a series, which I didn't know when I picked this book. While I knew there were several back stories to the friends, I was never lost on the plot. Overall, a good story. *I received an ARC of this book from NetGalley and this is my voluntary and honest review.
November 8, 2025
This was first read in the Texas Rodeo series and after reading Mistletoe in Texas I can say it stood just fine on its own.
This is not a an overly sweet and endearing Christmas tale but a story about a hidden, unexpected pregnancy and a fallen rodeo star. The story also has some major moral and ethical taboos that I'm not sure why they were added because the tale could of stood without out them, causing a few cringe worthy moments.
That being said, I enjoyed the story. I found it entertaining and well paced, keeping my attention. 3.5 stars
I received this ARC copy of Mistletoe in Texas from Sourcebooks Casablanca. This is my honest and voluntary review. Mistletoe in Texas is set for publication Sept. 25, 2018.
My Rating: 3.5 stars
This is not a an overly sweet and endearing Christmas tale but a story about a hidden, unexpected pregnancy and a fallen rodeo star. The story also has some major moral and ethical taboos that I'm not sure why they were added because the tale could of stood without out them, causing a few cringe worthy moments.
That being said, I enjoyed the story. I found it entertaining and well paced, keeping my attention. 3.5 stars
I received this ARC copy of Mistletoe in Texas from Sourcebooks Casablanca. This is my honest and voluntary review. Mistletoe in Texas is set for publication Sept. 25, 2018.
My Rating: 3.5 stars
July 24, 2018
This definitely isn't a light, frothy Christmas story but it's still a very enjoyable read.
Hank and Grace knew each other as children. Hank was the bad boy while Grace was smothered by her loving parents. Now, all grown up and back in their hometown, will they be able to find a way to revive their once close friendship.
It's a great, emotional read. I think you'll enjoy it.
Many thanks to NetGalley, the author, and the publisher for my ARC. All opinions are my own.
Hank and Grace knew each other as children. Hank was the bad boy while Grace was smothered by her loving parents. Now, all grown up and back in their hometown, will they be able to find a way to revive their once close friendship.
It's a great, emotional read. I think you'll enjoy it.
Many thanks to NetGalley, the author, and the publisher for my ARC. All opinions are my own.
August 31, 2018
"Received an Advance Reader Copy in exchange for a fair review"
Another fantastic, authentic contemporary western romance by Kari Lynn Dell. The rodeo life seems vivid and genuine and the characters are complex and three-dimensional, their relationships hard and tender and full of hidden scars and secrets, but so genuine! Hank is a tortured hero in the process of healing. The romance between John and Bing is heartwarming and other male characters like Gil Sanchez and Trevy are just claiming their own story.
I just missed getting to know more about Maddie and felt that her absence – physical and spiritual - was a bit odd.
I'm grateful to the publisher, SOURCEBOOKS Casablanca, and NetGalley for providing a free copy
Another fantastic, authentic contemporary western romance by Kari Lynn Dell. The rodeo life seems vivid and genuine and the characters are complex and three-dimensional, their relationships hard and tender and full of hidden scars and secrets, but so genuine! Hank is a tortured hero in the process of healing. The romance between John and Bing is heartwarming and other male characters like Gil Sanchez and Trevy are just claiming their own story.
I just missed getting to know more about Maddie and felt that her absence – physical and spiritual - was a bit odd.
I'm grateful to the publisher, SOURCEBOOKS Casablanca, and NetGalley for providing a free copy
July 15, 2018
reunion, redemption, repair a broken family
June 19, 2019
Although I think you can read this as a stand-alone it makes more sense if you have read the previous books and understand the interactions between the characters.
Hank Brookman was a rodeo bull-fighter but a messed up home life and feelings of insecurity have plagued him all his life then his rashness leads him into a potentially calamitous situation and gets him fired by the people he considered family. Then a moment of indecision left another rider crippled for life and Hank himself suffering injuries. He has spent months living like a squatter on a Reservation with an elderly woman, blaming himself for everything. Then when his landlady/employer dies he is kicked off the Reservation and his sponsor Gil (owner of a trucking business based in Hank's hometown) offers him a job working for the trucking company and an apartment. Suddenly Hank will have to face the father who constantly criticised him, the girl he'd been best friends with since they were nine that he humiliated in front of half the town, his estranged sister and all the former friends and family that he's ghosted in the past three years.
Grace McKenna has been in love with Hank since she was nine years old. The daughter of a religious zealot she had a one night stand with Hank shortly after he lost his job but he humiliated her in the local bar, drunk and ashamed he was unkind and dismissive. Now the sports doctor at the local high school Grace doesn't know how she can face the love of her life again, especially since she has now become friends with his sister Melanie and other women from his close circle of friends.
If you have read the previous books in the series you will have seen Hank as the cocky, know-it-all, brilliant bull-rider who lost everything because of bad decisions and ego. This is truly a Christmas redemption story as Hank learns to see himself through the eyes of others and builds bridges between himself and his father, with the help of his counsellor/friend Bing.
Other reviewers have criticised Grace's choices, I have to agree with them but I can also see why Grace did what she did, at the end of the day its a plot device and sets her aside from the usual way these stories go.
I loved seeing Hank growing and reestablishing himself in the community, apologising and moving on, changing his behaviour and owning his actions. I loved that he was all in and present with Grace, it may have taken him years to realise that his little red-haired girl, the one who cheered him from the sidelines, the one who shared her homework, the one who was always there for him, was his benchmark for all women and the love of his life but when he does ... he's there no matter what.
Overall, another feel-good romance full of love and redemption, hope and renewal, family (in all its forms) and Christmas.
Hank Brookman was a rodeo bull-fighter but a messed up home life and feelings of insecurity have plagued him all his life then his rashness leads him into a potentially calamitous situation and gets him fired by the people he considered family. Then a moment of indecision left another rider crippled for life and Hank himself suffering injuries. He has spent months living like a squatter on a Reservation with an elderly woman, blaming himself for everything. Then when his landlady/employer dies he is kicked off the Reservation and his sponsor Gil (owner of a trucking business based in Hank's hometown) offers him a job working for the trucking company and an apartment. Suddenly Hank will have to face the father who constantly criticised him, the girl he'd been best friends with since they were nine that he humiliated in front of half the town, his estranged sister and all the former friends and family that he's ghosted in the past three years.
Grace McKenna has been in love with Hank since she was nine years old. The daughter of a religious zealot she had a one night stand with Hank shortly after he lost his job but he humiliated her in the local bar, drunk and ashamed he was unkind and dismissive. Now the sports doctor at the local high school Grace doesn't know how she can face the love of her life again, especially since she has now become friends with his sister Melanie and other women from his close circle of friends.
If you have read the previous books in the series you will have seen Hank as the cocky, know-it-all, brilliant bull-rider who lost everything because of bad decisions and ego. This is truly a Christmas redemption story as Hank learns to see himself through the eyes of others and builds bridges between himself and his father, with the help of his counsellor/friend Bing.
Other reviewers have criticised Grace's choices, I have to agree with them but I can also see why Grace did what she did, at the end of the day its a plot device and sets her aside from the usual way these stories go.
I loved seeing Hank growing and reestablishing himself in the community, apologising and moving on, changing his behaviour and owning his actions. I loved that he was all in and present with Grace, it may have taken him years to realise that his little red-haired girl, the one who cheered him from the sidelines, the one who shared her homework, the one who was always there for him, was his benchmark for all women and the love of his life but when he does ... he's there no matter what.
Overall, another feel-good romance full of love and redemption, hope and renewal, family (in all its forms) and Christmas.
October 6, 2018
This book drags in the beginning for me. This is a series that has overlapping storylines. If you read the previous book, you know Grace’s secret.
Hank and Grace were best friends from fourth grade on. He was the star athlete, she the pretty, quiet, smart daughter of a strict Bible thumping dad.
Hank became a bull fighter and was rising up quickly through the ranks. During one event, Hank wasn’t able to prevent a rider from getting injured and then gets seriously injured himself. Reeling from both events, he disappears, leaving his family desperately searching for him. Just before incurring his injuries, he sleeps with Grace and then humiliates her in front of their small town.
Grace. Where to start with why I disliked her. She made a major, life altering decision without talking to Hank first. Then she drags some of his family and friends into keeping her secret, driving an even bigger wedge between him and them. IMO, she was very egocentric. It was all about how everything affected her and the life she created for herself and didn’t want disrupted.
Hank was seriously trying to get his life back together and be a better man. When Grace reveals her secret and following actions, he too easily and quickly (IMO) lets it roll off him and runs back to her.
I just never got the two of them together. Hank spent his early years looking at Grace as his best friend and biggest supporter. Then with what felt like a flip of the switch, realizes he’s always been crazy about her but stuffed it to the back of his mind because of who her father was? Just didn’t work for me.
Bing is supposed to be a mental health counselor. She violated HIPPA laws so many times. Not just violated, stomped all over them. Even if she wasn’t “officially” his counselor, as his supposed best friend, she spoke much too freely about Hank’s issues without his consent or knowledge. And the whole Bing/Hank’s dad storyline? Didn’t get it. Felt like it was just used as a means to get Bing to move to Texas to keep her close to Hank.
I did enjoy watching Hank and his dad work out their relationship.
I struggled with the whole book. After loving the 2 books in this series I have read, I felt tremendously let down by this book.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC provided by NetGalley and the publisher.
Hank and Grace were best friends from fourth grade on. He was the star athlete, she the pretty, quiet, smart daughter of a strict Bible thumping dad.
Hank became a bull fighter and was rising up quickly through the ranks. During one event, Hank wasn’t able to prevent a rider from getting injured and then gets seriously injured himself. Reeling from both events, he disappears, leaving his family desperately searching for him. Just before incurring his injuries, he sleeps with Grace and then humiliates her in front of their small town.
Grace. Where to start with why I disliked her. She made a major, life altering decision without talking to Hank first. Then she drags some of his family and friends into keeping her secret, driving an even bigger wedge between him and them. IMO, she was very egocentric. It was all about how everything affected her and the life she created for herself and didn’t want disrupted.
Hank was seriously trying to get his life back together and be a better man. When Grace reveals her secret and following actions, he too easily and quickly (IMO) lets it roll off him and runs back to her.
I just never got the two of them together. Hank spent his early years looking at Grace as his best friend and biggest supporter. Then with what felt like a flip of the switch, realizes he’s always been crazy about her but stuffed it to the back of his mind because of who her father was? Just didn’t work for me.
Bing is supposed to be a mental health counselor. She violated HIPPA laws so many times. Not just violated, stomped all over them. Even if she wasn’t “officially” his counselor, as his supposed best friend, she spoke much too freely about Hank’s issues without his consent or knowledge. And the whole Bing/Hank’s dad storyline? Didn’t get it. Felt like it was just used as a means to get Bing to move to Texas to keep her close to Hank.
I did enjoy watching Hank and his dad work out their relationship.
I struggled with the whole book. After loving the 2 books in this series I have read, I felt tremendously let down by this book.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC provided by NetGalley and the publisher.
September 23, 2018
Mistletoe in Texas (Texas Rodeo #5) by Kari Lynn Dell
What's that saying about pride before a fall? Young love becomes adult mayhem, when a wandering cowboy revisits his past regrets. Mistletoe in Texas is a look at how foolish pride could have life long repercussions. For Grace and Hank emotions didn't turn out so well. The first time around was a bust that left a great deal of collateral damage. Neither realized the impact of the choice they made to walk away. As they say too little to late. When the life found turns out not to be the one hoped for is when it helps to rethink a few things. Whether you agree or disagree with many of Grace's choices and a few of Hank's, a few things have to be remembered. When young we don't always use our heads, but listen with our hearts. That's a casualty that makes us human. The lessons we learn from our mistakes are what help us to grow into a more understanding person. Dell reminds us what it means to be young and in love. The innocence, heartache and hopefulness, but loving also means a willingness to forgive and move forward. In this maze of hurtful secrets and foolish pride, we find the truth of what love is...FORGIVING.
What's that saying about pride before a fall? Young love becomes adult mayhem, when a wandering cowboy revisits his past regrets. Mistletoe in Texas is a look at how foolish pride could have life long repercussions. For Grace and Hank emotions didn't turn out so well. The first time around was a bust that left a great deal of collateral damage. Neither realized the impact of the choice they made to walk away. As they say too little to late. When the life found turns out not to be the one hoped for is when it helps to rethink a few things. Whether you agree or disagree with many of Grace's choices and a few of Hank's, a few things have to be remembered. When young we don't always use our heads, but listen with our hearts. That's a casualty that makes us human. The lessons we learn from our mistakes are what help us to grow into a more understanding person. Dell reminds us what it means to be young and in love. The innocence, heartache and hopefulness, but loving also means a willingness to forgive and move forward. In this maze of hurtful secrets and foolish pride, we find the truth of what love is...FORGIVING.
November 1, 2018
Is it possible to love someone with your whole heart and still have room to love yourself?
Hank was riding high on life until he hit a brick wall named Grace his curly red head girl. Now after leaving Hank returns home to settle and fix what he left broken in his life, if possible. Hank’s relationship with his family member’s is a part of his healing as well as his relationship with the woman who matters the most…Grace. Can Hank heal the layers of hurt inside himself? Will they see him for not what he was, but who his is now?
Grace is a preacher’s daughter; the middle child of seven who is a huge disappointment to her father. Grace lost her heart to her best friend Hank, she was his shadow had tagged along everywhere he went and soon their bond was formed. Then that incredible night happened.
Grace holds a secret that not only crush her life, but the lives of others who are involved. Hank and Grace went from friends, to one-night stand and that does not make a relationship. After one fight, one secret, one return trip home these two find themselves with a lot of unanswered questions. Hank was a little jerky at first, but his character redeemed himself. Grace confused me when her secret was out, but as her story come forth I now it was not so much as how Hank took the secret as how she was feeling about her role in the secret. Can the heal what is torn?
The supporting characters were delightful as ever. I adore Bing and Miz Iris they both hold a great mother role for Hank in his time of need. It was nice to see everyone even though I felt for Hank as he discovers everyone’s role in the aftermath. I do wish and hope to see the meeting between Hank, Grace and a very special little gift.
The Texas Rodeo Series is just so yummy from the beginning of the series too Mistletoe in Texas the plots are always filled with characters that are hard press to forget, a strong dose of drama, joy and love. You felt what Hank and Grace was feeling on every level and step of their journey.
Even if I knew about Grace’s secret in the previous book; I enjoyed this telling story of their beginning and if there was an ending that tip my heart over to mush. I know that it is said that this can be a standalone book, but I suggest strong that you read the first in the Texas Rodeo Series to get the supporting characters stories to know why they are important to Hank and Grace.
Rated 5 Stilettos and a Recommended Read by Deb !
Hank was riding high on life until he hit a brick wall named Grace his curly red head girl. Now after leaving Hank returns home to settle and fix what he left broken in his life, if possible. Hank’s relationship with his family member’s is a part of his healing as well as his relationship with the woman who matters the most…Grace. Can Hank heal the layers of hurt inside himself? Will they see him for not what he was, but who his is now?
Grace is a preacher’s daughter; the middle child of seven who is a huge disappointment to her father. Grace lost her heart to her best friend Hank, she was his shadow had tagged along everywhere he went and soon their bond was formed. Then that incredible night happened.
Grace holds a secret that not only crush her life, but the lives of others who are involved. Hank and Grace went from friends, to one-night stand and that does not make a relationship. After one fight, one secret, one return trip home these two find themselves with a lot of unanswered questions. Hank was a little jerky at first, but his character redeemed himself. Grace confused me when her secret was out, but as her story come forth I now it was not so much as how Hank took the secret as how she was feeling about her role in the secret. Can the heal what is torn?
The supporting characters were delightful as ever. I adore Bing and Miz Iris they both hold a great mother role for Hank in his time of need. It was nice to see everyone even though I felt for Hank as he discovers everyone’s role in the aftermath. I do wish and hope to see the meeting between Hank, Grace and a very special little gift.
The Texas Rodeo Series is just so yummy from the beginning of the series too Mistletoe in Texas the plots are always filled with characters that are hard press to forget, a strong dose of drama, joy and love. You felt what Hank and Grace was feeling on every level and step of their journey.
Even if I knew about Grace’s secret in the previous book; I enjoyed this telling story of their beginning and if there was an ending that tip my heart over to mush. I know that it is said that this can be a standalone book, but I suggest strong that you read the first in the Texas Rodeo Series to get the supporting characters stories to know why they are important to Hank and Grace.
Rated 5 Stilettos and a Recommended Read by Deb !
September 27, 2018
Hank is a good guy with a big heart, but he’s pretty damaged, more than a little broken, and has left a path of destruction through all of his family and friends. Eventually though, he’s done hiding out in Montana and returns to Texas to face his past and make amends. To face Grace, the one girl who has always been there for him, a true friend, and one he treated terribly. But there's a lot that happened in the three years he was gone, and just when it looks like they could be friends again, and maybe more, Grace reveals a secret that leaves Hank torn.
“it’s complicated" is simple compared to the way things are between Hank and Grace. There are so many regrets, fears, judgments and expectations all layered together with the love, longing, pain and desires that it’s a wonder things can ever get sorted between them. Dell has a way of creating flawed, realistic, endearing characters so that their story so is heartfelt, hypnotizing and compelling that the reader hangs on every word. If you like a romance with a little heat and sexy cowboys, and one full of redemption, heart, hope and second chances, you'll love Hank and Grace's story!
*I reviewed an advance copy of this book freely and voluntarily, having made no commitment to provide a review and receiving no compensation of any kind from any source for this review.
“it’s complicated" is simple compared to the way things are between Hank and Grace. There are so many regrets, fears, judgments and expectations all layered together with the love, longing, pain and desires that it’s a wonder things can ever get sorted between them. Dell has a way of creating flawed, realistic, endearing characters so that their story so is heartfelt, hypnotizing and compelling that the reader hangs on every word. If you like a romance with a little heat and sexy cowboys, and one full of redemption, heart, hope and second chances, you'll love Hank and Grace's story!
*I reviewed an advance copy of this book freely and voluntarily, having made no commitment to provide a review and receiving no compensation of any kind from any source for this review.
October 15, 2018
Another great addition to this series. I don't want to go into the story line but I'm always amazed by the detail Kari Lynn Dell puts into her stories. If you have any experience with horses, cattle and rodeo events you'll find that she knows what she's talking about. Her great detail makes her scenes play out like your there watching it happen. This book touches on an unwanted pregnancy and I personally loved that Kari Lynn Dell took it on a path that could be unfavorable to some. As true to life that you can't please all people but you do what you feel is best for all concerned and hope for the best outcome for all. Another great love story!
October 12, 2018
Heartwarming, sexy, emotional, fun and exciting second chance romance filled with lots of small-town backwoods country homeyness...... was yummy from beginning to end.
Hank Brookman is a sexy, strong rodeo bullfighter that was injured and is now back home trying to rebuild his life and reconnect with loved ones he left behind all those years ago...... Grace McKenna is the sweet, charming, smart and sexy woman that captured his heart years ago and never let go.
Hank Brookman is a sexy, strong rodeo bullfighter that was injured and is now back home trying to rebuild his life and reconnect with loved ones he left behind all those years ago...... Grace McKenna is the sweet, charming, smart and sexy woman that captured his heart years ago and never let go.
September 21, 2018
After finishing the astonishing Fearless in Texas, I couldn’t wait to get my hands on MISTLETOE IN TEXAS, and as you can see, it didn’t go as expected. Those of us who had read the previous book already knew what Grace’s “secret” was, while I presume those who haven’t can guess when reading the blurb: Grace had a baby. I don’t consider mentioning it a spoiler, as it’s revealed very early on anyway. Sad to say, the romance never worked for me: Grace and Hank had been friends since they were in fourth grade, she had been in love with Hank for ever it seems, while he … I don’t know. At some point towards the end, it seems he has always been in love with her. Okay. Right. Well, he had some strange ways of showing her in the past. I felt there were a whole lot of details missing proving that Hank had been in love with Grace all this time. Lust, yes; friendship, yes; love? I didn’t see it. Also, and this is not limited to Ms. Dell or this book, but I have a serious problem with heroines (never heroes! it never happens to men!) who put their love lives on ice because they keep pining for years after “the one that got away”; I think it’s pathetic. Or maybe I don’t have a romantic bone in me? I also had a real problem with the timeline: 12 months plus 2 months plus 9 months equals 23 months – unless there’s some novel way of adding up that I’m not aware of; so what was that with the 3 years that kept popping up?
I wasn’t expecting a barrel of laughs, but I found MISTLETOE IN TEXAS quite depressing, especially at the beginning. There is so much hostility towards Hank, and it wasn’t very clear why until later on, and there’s the bad blood between Hank and his father. I like flawed characters, but honestly Hank had been a real loser while Grace had a solid career, and I just couldn’t understand why Grace was still crazy about him. And unlike other reviewers, I had no problem with Grace’s decision; it was actually refreshing to see a heroine whose point of view differs from the accepted norm. But I couldn’t see Hank’s appeal, and I couldn’t help wondering why I was supposed to want to see them together. It’s not even as if they had really “been together” in the past. It was also a bit strange how both Grace and Hank were in some sort of “love vacuum”; in those types of stories, you usually have at least one member of the opposite sex gravitating around either or both protagonists; here, no one seemed remotely romantically interested in either Grace or Hank. I couldn’t make myself care how the “romance” turned out, I just wasn’t invested in whatever happened. In fact, I would have much preferred Trevyn as the hero, or the hero of a second romance; he was splendid and very charismatic. You know the sort of people you dislike upon meeting and no matter what they do, no matter the grovelling or the good deeds, your first impression never changes? That’s how I felt about Hank. Neither did I really care about the second romance that happened which, in my opinion, was not necessary and made the book longer. I also found extremely convenient it is to have super rich people solve others’ financial woes. Kari Lynn Dell’s descriptions of rodeos, horses, and farm life are stunning, as usual; her writing is flawless, and I would have been much more interested in everything else that happened were it not for the two romances that never worked for me.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I wasn’t expecting a barrel of laughs, but I found MISTLETOE IN TEXAS quite depressing, especially at the beginning. There is so much hostility towards Hank, and it wasn’t very clear why until later on, and there’s the bad blood between Hank and his father. I like flawed characters, but honestly Hank had been a real loser while Grace had a solid career, and I just couldn’t understand why Grace was still crazy about him. And unlike other reviewers, I had no problem with Grace’s decision; it was actually refreshing to see a heroine whose point of view differs from the accepted norm. But I couldn’t see Hank’s appeal, and I couldn’t help wondering why I was supposed to want to see them together. It’s not even as if they had really “been together” in the past. It was also a bit strange how both Grace and Hank were in some sort of “love vacuum”; in those types of stories, you usually have at least one member of the opposite sex gravitating around either or both protagonists; here, no one seemed remotely romantically interested in either Grace or Hank. I couldn’t make myself care how the “romance” turned out, I just wasn’t invested in whatever happened. In fact, I would have much preferred Trevyn as the hero, or the hero of a second romance; he was splendid and very charismatic. You know the sort of people you dislike upon meeting and no matter what they do, no matter the grovelling or the good deeds, your first impression never changes? That’s how I felt about Hank. Neither did I really care about the second romance that happened which, in my opinion, was not necessary and made the book longer. I also found extremely convenient it is to have super rich people solve others’ financial woes. Kari Lynn Dell’s descriptions of rodeos, horses, and farm life are stunning, as usual; her writing is flawless, and I would have been much more interested in everything else that happened were it not for the two romances that never worked for me.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
August 28, 2018
Hank and Grace's reunion was a long slow road. Not only did it take years, but the book had so much going on that it seems to have taken forever to get to it. The first half was Hank trying to show and prove to everyone that he has changed. I want to say that I think that some of the content could have been shorter maybe skimmed a little. But then I think that we might miss something.
Mistletoe in Texas, is a great cowboy romance.
Mistletoe in Texas, is a great cowboy romance.
August 2, 2018
Best western/rodeo writer out there! I rodeo myself and this author gets it right every time. If you enjoy the western way of life and a good romance Kari Lynn Dell is what you are looking for!
September 22, 2018
Hank Bookman is about as far down as a man can go without being as lost as a shadowy figure of a man, hiding out in the Blackfeet Nation in Montana. Bing, a pyschological therapist swoops in to become Hank's counselor to stop Hank's descent. Yes, Hank had hit rock bottom. With his counselor's help along with having Gil Sanchez as his crisis sponsor there was no where for Hank to go but up. It was time for Hank to grow up and face his demons and get back to the living. That meant heading back home to Ernest, Texas and doing what he had to do to make up for past mistakes and earn some respect again, especially make up for past mistakes with Grace McKenna. He could do this! He was ready! But Grace has a major secret to share with Hank which could mess up his plans. His dad had to get some counseling from Bing too and all his friends had to accept the new and better man he had become.
Mistletoe in Texas is the fifth book in author Kari Lynn Dell's Texas Rodeo series. I binge read this series from the beginning in one week and am ready for more. The stories were all excellent. The whole series is extremely well-written with loveable characters and true to life rodeo scenes which is no surprise considering the author competes in various rodeos. Mistletoe in Texas is such a complete and detailed story with screaming emotional scenes. A reader just can not avoid getting caught up in the emotions of the characters whether, joy, sadness, anger or despair. But there also is the Christmas spirit included in some fun ways like the hot spot in town, The Lone Steer, where everyong goes in December to watch the National Rodeo Finals happening in Las Vegas. It has a sprig of mistletoe hung from all the light fixtures and the joy of family getting together for Christmas. All this together makes this a super Christmas read.
You have to read this book or you will miss all the hidden jewels. Zap! Out of nowhere this author hits you with a line that leaves you laughing out loud. You really never know when she is going to hit you with a real zinger!
Mistletoe in Texas is the fifth book in author Kari Lynn Dell's Texas Rodeo series. I binge read this series from the beginning in one week and am ready for more. The stories were all excellent. The whole series is extremely well-written with loveable characters and true to life rodeo scenes which is no surprise considering the author competes in various rodeos. Mistletoe in Texas is such a complete and detailed story with screaming emotional scenes. A reader just can not avoid getting caught up in the emotions of the characters whether, joy, sadness, anger or despair. But there also is the Christmas spirit included in some fun ways like the hot spot in town, The Lone Steer, where everyong goes in December to watch the National Rodeo Finals happening in Las Vegas. It has a sprig of mistletoe hung from all the light fixtures and the joy of family getting together for Christmas. All this together makes this a super Christmas read.
You have to read this book or you will miss all the hidden jewels. Zap! Out of nowhere this author hits you with a line that leaves you laughing out loud. You really never know when she is going to hit you with a real zinger!
December 18, 2018
Kari Lynn Dell should be Crowned Queen of the Rodeo Romance for she can write one hell of heart string yanking, spur jangling book. Hank and Grace finally come face to face again after 3 long years and a Mountain of Hurt and Secrets between them. Can Grace forgive Hank for the humiliation he dished out on her last she saw him?? Can Hank make Grace see he truly has changed and prove he has changed by forgiving her for a major secret she has kept from him?? This the 5th book in this series had me rooting Hank and Grace along. Sometimes one must hit rock bottom to completely rise to the top again. Forgiveness is something that must be given to truly be 100% whole again. I can not say enough great things to give Kari Lynn Dell all the highest accolades she deserves with Mistletoe in Texas yet another Great book she has written. Kari Lynn Dell has a true gift of penmanship very few authors have. She can pull a reader in so deep that one can feel the very emotions that the characters are feeling. In Grace’s word this book is AWESOME!!!!
April 11, 2020
Redemption of the no good cowboy who messed up mightily in some of the previous books.
Hank went through hell and now we see him get his happy ending, not only with the girl he was too stupid to realize he loved, but also with his dad, his sister and his extended found family.
It is lovely to see how something gone so wrong can turn out right in the end - even if it is „only“ in a novel.
Also these books give me so much insight into a life that I find fascinating, but know nothing about. This volume has less rodeo in it, and more day to day backbreaking work at the ranch.
This author does incredibly well with her characters. Everybody is drawn as a distinct personality, even side characters have small, but realistic story arcs. I feel like I really „know“ these people.
Cannot wait for Gil‘s book!!!!!
Hank went through hell and now we see him get his happy ending, not only with the girl he was too stupid to realize he loved, but also with his dad, his sister and his extended found family.
It is lovely to see how something gone so wrong can turn out right in the end - even if it is „only“ in a novel.
Also these books give me so much insight into a life that I find fascinating, but know nothing about. This volume has less rodeo in it, and more day to day backbreaking work at the ranch.
This author does incredibly well with her characters. Everybody is drawn as a distinct personality, even side characters have small, but realistic story arcs. I feel like I really „know“ these people.
Cannot wait for Gil‘s book!!!!!
September 28, 2018
~~I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads ~~
This is the fifth book in the series, and I would recommend that you read them in order if you can. I have recently read a couple, and it did help get all the prior issues and relationships in order. This is a big all encompassing series, in which I really am invested. It gives weight to many cowboy competitions and recognises the women's circuit as well as the men's, which gives it far more interesting characters and dynamics. Well worth reading, that's for sure.
This was one of those long-time coming stories, which a faithful reader would be expecting to be a massive train-wreck. And at times it did seem like the hurdles were insurmountable, however a little faith in Dell was all that was needed to give Grace and Hank the future they deserved. I loved that Hank's father Johnny and Bing also got their story told alongside. It made for a more fun and light-hearted romance, when Hank and Grace were both struggling.
It is a good, satisfying read, which pulled together many storylines and got us caught up with previous couples - I really enjoyed it, thank you, Kari Lynn Dell.
This is the fifth book in the series, and I would recommend that you read them in order if you can. I have recently read a couple, and it did help get all the prior issues and relationships in order. This is a big all encompassing series, in which I really am invested. It gives weight to many cowboy competitions and recognises the women's circuit as well as the men's, which gives it far more interesting characters and dynamics. Well worth reading, that's for sure.
This was one of those long-time coming stories, which a faithful reader would be expecting to be a massive train-wreck. And at times it did seem like the hurdles were insurmountable, however a little faith in Dell was all that was needed to give Grace and Hank the future they deserved. I loved that Hank's father Johnny and Bing also got their story told alongside. It made for a more fun and light-hearted romance, when Hank and Grace were both struggling.
It is a good, satisfying read, which pulled together many storylines and got us caught up with previous couples - I really enjoyed it, thank you, Kari Lynn Dell.
December 15, 2021
I've read all the prior books in the series, but something about this one didn't sit as well with me. I mean, I mostly enjoyed it, but not as the same level as the prior books. I think for me it was just too "dark" for a Christmas book. The characters just had so many issues to get though in order to find their happily ever after, I was just didn't feel the Christmasy feels I wanted. It has also been a couple years since I read the prior books and they're all tied pretty closely, so it was almost like jumping into the middle of the series at this point. I was a little lost at how all the folks connected... and there were a lot of people.
Mistletoe in Texas was a middle of the road read for me.
Mistletoe in Texas was a middle of the road read for me.
September 27, 2018
Wow, wow, what a great story. I had to make myself put it down and sleep last night. I had been waiting for Hank's story and Kari Lynn Dell delivered way beyond what I even thought might happen. Both Grace and Hank have issues that stem from their childhood and a parent. Kari Lynn Dell addresses those issues head on and you will feel every emotion known. I laughed, cried, and cheered during this book. Thank you for an awesome book.
You will also get caught up with everyone from the earlier books. The relationship with parents is addressed in a special way, as issues are resolved. And I was left wanting more of Hank and Grace.
You will also get caught up with everyone from the earlier books. The relationship with parents is addressed in a special way, as issues are resolved. And I was left wanting more of Hank and Grace.
October 1, 2018
This one had a lot going on, too much at times, but the basic story was very good. Grace isn't really a favorite character of mine but I could sympathize with the situation she found herself facing. I would have preferred if she had been forthcoming with her secret sooner and maybe with a bit more compassion. Hank I enjoyed. He's a guy who has gone through some bad times but he's facing things head on and trying to make amends to those he hurt. I thought parts of the story were unnecessarily drawn out but in the end I did enjoy the book so I would recommend.
September 26, 2018
This book is about “righting what you have done wrong”, taking another chance on love ( not only for the books main characters, but another couple as well), reuniting family, stepping away from an abusive relationship and learning how to have a conversation without the comfort of food.
When you read this book you are immersed in a group of people and how everyone makes this book come together. Read on to find out what happens!
Kudos to Kari Lynn Dell
When you read this book you are immersed in a group of people and how everyone makes this book come together. Read on to find out what happens!
Kudos to Kari Lynn Dell
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