Falling for Texas

by Jill Lynn

Educating the Cowboy

Raising his orphaned teenage sister isn't easy for Texas rancher Cash Maddox. The girl tests his parenting—and patience—at every turn! But when he asks new teacher Olivia Grayson for help with his sister's grades and attitude, Cash realizes he's facing the toughest trial of all. He made a promise that he wouldn't date and get distracted from his mission of being a good father figure. Yet Olivia's quick wit is drawing him unexpectedly closer to the caring beauty every day. Could it be time to make a new vow…one that'll last a lifetime?

Genres: Love Inspired, Contemporary Romance, Christian Fiction, Romance

288 pages, Mass Market Paperback

First published January 20, 2015

About the author

Jill Lynn Buteyn is a co-author of Just Show Up with Kara Tippetts, and the author of inspirational romances (as Jill Lynn). A recipient of the ACFW Genesis award for her fiction work, she has a bachelor’s degree in communications from Bethel University. Jill lives near the beautiful Rocky Mountains with her husband and two children.
Connect with her on social media or at Jill-Lynn.com.

Reviews

[Rissi · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sweet romances are my “happy place” in reading. Yes, I will freely admit that. There is something “easy” about them that I cannot put my finger on, but do know they leave me happily smiling and normally willing to re-read. If I had the time, that is. But hey, at least I have the thought of re-reading – that totally counts, right!? Back on track, right. One of 2015’s debut authors, Jill Lynn’s contemporary romance tells the story of Olivia Grayson. A newcomer to Texas, Olivia is not without her secrets. Still suffering the emotional aftereffects of the string of bad choices she made, she wasn’t prepared for the stir rancher Cash Maddox would cause in her heart. The legal guardian and elder brother of her star volleyball player, Rachel, as Olivia gets to know Cash, she realizes that they could never be more than friends. Cash too is cautious as he gets to know Olivia. Truth is important to him in any relationship and right now Rachel needs to be his focus. But… something about Olivia makes him re-think his “no dating” policy.

Short and sweet best sums up Jill’s hot-off-the-press novel, which has no complaints from me. It wraps up at a 220 page count and is one of those easy-to-read books’ that is nothing but pure sunshine. Like any good storyteller, Jill does write involved character pasts that do trend towards being “dark,” though each of the situations is handled with tact and it doesn’t affect the happily-ever-after themes of the book. There is a fun-loving group of characters surrounding our hero and heroine, which makes the book all the more entertaining to read. But for me, that wasn’t the best part.

What I admired most about this story was the author lending her voice to some “tough subjects.” One of which is the belief that love shouldn’t be given on a whim (using the “true love waits” principle). There is a particularly poignant scene between Olivia and Rachel about this. Like any good contemporary, there are plenty of comical situations that arise and I liked the respect Olivia and Cash had for each other. If you enjoy inspirational romances or want one of those fast reads, then Falling for Texas is an excellent novel to pick up. It’s got a nice plot, good writing and of course, the most important of all, a Texan cowboy for its hero. What more could a girl ask for?

Sincere thanks to the author, Jill, for providing a complimentary copy of this book for the purpose of reviewing it.

[Alessandra Hightower · Rating 5 out of 5]

I don't normally read romance so I was skeptical, but I know the author and I know she's amazing and creative so I *begged* to get to read her book early! It was totally worth it! The book is very well-written. I really loved the characters and I love that it wasn't predictable. I'm glad that Rachel began to open up to Olivia too. And the lesson of not controlling everything and giving it up to God spoke to me. Awesome book! I will read all her future books! Well done.

[Stephanie Fitzgerald · Rating 3 out of 5]

Steaminess Rating:
❤️‍🔥❤️‍🔥
(Check my profile for my “Steaminess Factor Chart”)!

[Gwendolyn Gage · Rating 5 out of 5]

Contemporary Romance can be "hit or miss" with me, and this was a winning hit! Rockin' solid prose, and tangible chemistry between the hero and heroine were its best features. I love how the cover depicts them sitting on the truck bed as that became a special place for them. And Cash's nickname for Olivia, "city girl"...sigh. :-D

Set in small-town Texas, the plot is simple and strong in all the right ways. Cash Maddox is a cowboy trying to raise his difficult teenage sister and give her the good upbringing their parents had given him. The new high school volleyball coach calls Cash in to discuss grades, and he talks her into weekly tutoring sessions. The problem is, the coach is a looker with values to match his, and he made a promise not to date while raising his sister.

The theme explores forgiveness and trust, moving past mistakes, and letting go of one’s need for control, and the author handles each point with notable skill. The car wash scene was a favorite, oh my, and the ending scene was the perfect finale to a great story! If I end up in tears as things come to a head toward the end (and I did), yeah, its earned its spot in the hall of greatness.

I would recommend “Falling for Texas” to fans of Contemporary Romance, ranch/cowboy settings, and those who can appreciate the hero and heroine having a strong Christian faith as their life compass. And I will definitely be reading more of the author's books. :-)

[Sondra Kraak · Rating 5 out of 5]

Readers who pick up a copy of “Falling for Texas” will find themselves falling for debut author Jill Lynn. With a hefty dose of humor and wit, Lynn delivers a heartwarming story with characters that will become like friends to you. Lynn’s voice is fresh, her story fast-paced, and the spiritual themes she weaves in, faith-deepening. Topnotch writing here, fellow readers. But let me underscore again the sass and silliness this woman dishes out. Get out the chap stick and put some on because this story will have you smiling so much your lips will crack. Sign me up for her next book.

[Melmo2610 · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the cutest story! Jill is definitely a favorite author for me and I am enjoying catching up on her books. Her writing style is easy to read with great characters and lots of laugh out loud lines which is one of my favorite things about her books. Loved this one!

[Heidi · Rating 5 out of 5]

The instant chemistry between Cash Maddox and Olivia Grayson captured my attention from the moment they first interacted. As Cash struggles to parent his orphaned sister, Rachel, he's also trapped in a self-imposed vicious cycle of guilt and regret over their parents' death. Olivia is Rachel's volleyball coach and agrees to help Cash by tutoring Rachel, which quickly leads to plenty of interaction between Olivia and Cash. But Olivia left a past behind in Colorado and the guilt and regret has followed her to little Fredericksburg, Texas. She can't seem to forgive herself and move forward, even though she quickly realizes that Cash is everything she wants in a husband. There's so much to talk about in this sweet yet powerful debut. The scenes including the volleyball team and the way Olivia interacted with the teenagers in her life was so realistic and laugh-out-loud funny.The lighthearted moments were balanced with deeper, poignant scenes as the author examines some of life's big questions through a series of unexpected plot twists. Issues like grace and forgiveness, God's sovereign plan for our lives even in the midst of our heartache ... and most importantly, the beauty of grace and the opportunity to move forward, embracing forgiveness for ourselves and others. I really enjoyed this novel. It's humorous and heartwarming, with a hero and heroine I rooted for from the beginning. Once I finished it, I was left with plenty to ponder and I immediately wanted to read more from this author. Well done, Jill.

Thank you to Harlequin Love Inspired and the author, Jill Lynn, for providing a complimentary digital ARC. All opinions stated in this review are my own.

[Brittany · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a great story! This is the debut book for author Jill Lynn and I must say that I am extremely impressed. If you are a fan of Denise Hunter or Becky Wade, I believe you will find that Falling for Texas is a book you love.

Olivia and Cash’s story pulled me in from the very first page. The heroine is a Texas transplant. She has moved from Colorado to the small town of Fredericksburg, TX to start over. As the story unfolds, the reader learns exactly what happened in Olivia’s past and watches her struggle to forgive and get past these events.

Cash is a handsome hero who is a strong Christian, but does not realize that he is trying to stay in control of his life instead of allowing God to be in control. He ends up needing Olivia’s help with his defiant, teenage sister, who he is guardian for. As Cash and Olivia spend time together, the attraction grows, as does the tension.

This story has such a great balance. There are wonderful friendships that develop, an attraction between two people who feel that there really isn’t ever going to be a chance for it to grow into a relationship, a small town feel, and a misunderstanding that has the ability to tear down a romance before it can truly even begin.

I would like to express my thanks to the author for the complimentary copy of this book that was provided to me in exchange for an honest review.

https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...

[Cathy · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Falling for Texas” is a romantic novel which delivers a Texas-size kick of wit and laughter. Normally I would consider a book of this genre a guilty pleasure, but the interweaving of Christian faith, and ideals, makes it not only captivating, but good food for the soul. The main character’s journey through guilt, confession, and then forgiveness actually helped me to let go of some difficult issues from my past. The author has masterfully woven contemporary culture within a small town setting (with all of the nostalgia of high school football players as celebrity, potlucks and drive-in movies) and created believable characters who are charming, if humanly flawed. If I were single, I would have pulled an all-nighter to finish the book, but since I am married with children, I devoured it in 3 days! Enjoy this wonderful non-guility pleasure!

[Kav · Rating 5 out of 5]

There's something about a cowboy hero, isn't there? And Cash is the epitome of all that is good in a cowboy. He's rooted in the land and small town life and dedicated to family. He's honorable and trustworthy and honest. Pretty hard to resist even for a woman like Olivia who is determined to avoid romantic entanglements. There's a sweet push/pull to their encounters as they try to resist the 'untimeliness' of their attraction. Lynn has crafted a fresh love story with a wonderful blend of laughter and drama and a poignant inspirational thread that really touched my heart. An amazing debut novel. Definitely looking forward to more excellent reads from this author.

[Jill Kemerer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Falling for Texas had ME falling for Texas. Cash's morals, work ethic and the dedication he shows to his sister had me swooning, and did I mention he's a cowboy? And Olivia was so relatable. She truly cared about her students and friends, and I found her inner dilemma to be compelling. This is such a fun read, but it will have you reaching for the tissues too.

A wonderful debut! I'm adding Jill Lynn to my must-read list!

I received an advanced reader's copy with no obligation to review it. All opinions are my own.

[Elizabeth · Rating 5 out of 5]

Falling for Texas was really a fun read. I have lived in both CO and TX and enjoyed the setting! The characters were so likable and realistic. The strong female was so well written but she didn't lack sensitivity. The man was NOT wimpy but also not too tough to be likable.

The writing was strong and I would read another book from this same author. I found the ending more satisfying than a lot of romances!

[Janette Foreman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jill writes with a unique mix of spunk and gentle strength. There were laugh-out-loud moments, quick wit, and moments of poignant emotion that squeezed my heart. Her characters rang with realism, and the spiritual themes resonated with me. I highly recommend this book to anyone who loves inspirational sweet romances.

[Jen Turano · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jill Lynn has penned a delightful debut with “Falling for Texas.” Cash Maddox is certainly a swoon-worthy hero, while Olivia Grayson makes quite the compelling heroine. Jill’s skill with imagery immediately draws the reader into the story, and this is a book that shouldn’t be missed.

[BlueJeansAndTeacups · Rating 4 out of 5]

A GETTING TO KNOW YOU STORY
Rather like a Hallmark movie without the added modern woke crap of a Hallmark movie (IMO). Plenty of redemption and forgiveness including self-forgiveness. I won this book quite a while ago and it slipped down in my TBR pile. This week was the right time to grab a simple, modern romance. I am a HUGE fan of historical fiction, so when I read modern, it's unusual. This one was an easy, summer read. Oh to be young again and feel that excitement and angst of early attraction. 😋 There is a lot of back and forth between Oliva and Cash (love the name) as they get to know each other. The story progresses easily and we get to know what's holding them back. They seem real and they both have kind hearts, making the story enjoyable. This story also touches on the loss of miscarriage. It turns out Jilly Lynn (the author) worked in a crisis pregnancy center. She wove her experience and faith beautifully into the story and she has a gentle writing style in my opinion. This is actually the first time I have read her work, but based on this I would be willing to read another 🙂
With thanks for the paperback book, and apologies for such a late review; all opinions are mine alone.

[Dj · Rating 4 out of 5]

Educating the Cowboy…Raising his orphaned teenage sister Rachel isn't easy for Texas (rancher) Cash Maddox. The girl tests his parenting—and patience—at every turn! Lying about where she’s going and who’s she’s with, climbing on the roof at church, during service, and riding with a drunk driving boyfriend. But when he asks new (French teacher/Volleyball Coach) Olivia Grayson for help with his sister's grades and attitude, Cash realizes he's facing the toughest trial of all. He made a promise that he wouldn't date and get distracted from his mission of being a good father figure because the day his parents died, he was off taking care of an old girlfriend. Yet Olivia's quick wit is drawing him unexpectedly closer to the caring beauty every day. Could it be time to make a new vow…one that'll last a lifetime and involved God?

[Becky Avella · Rating 5 out of 5]

My favorite Jill Lynn book yet. I’ve been binge reading her books lately, so she’s already a favorite Love Inspired author, but this book felt special. I loved these characters and the way they worked through heartache and guilt in a real, but not preachy way. My favorite theme in books is grace, and this one does such a great job of dealing with that topic while still telling the truth. For such a short book it was well developed. Plus Cash is definitely swoon worthy, even when he screws up. I loved this whole football-loving town, too, and wish I could move there. Looks like Jill has effectively hooked me on yet another series. My husband asked the other day what all the Amazon charges were for the same amount, and I just smiled and said, “Blame it on, Jill. I’m sure there will be more to come.” 😊 That dang “Buy Now” button on Kindle is way too easy to push.

[Elizabeth · Rating 4 out of 5]

Such a great book.

[Mandi · Rating 5 out of 5]

At first, it seems like a cut & dry, simple read. But it ends up having laughter, depth, & good characters 😊

[Sandra Randall · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great read. Feeling inspired

[Trixi · Rating 5 out of 5]

Running a ranch while trying to raise his rebellious teenage sister, Cash Maddox has his hands full! And if that wasn’t enough, he gets a call from the volleyball coach telling him her grades must come up in order to keep participating in practices. What’s a guy suppose to do? Olivia cares about her “girls”, those on her team. When she sees’s trouble brewing for Rachel, she’ll do just about anything to help…..including agreeing to weekly tutoring sessions; even if it means spending time with the handsome older brother! Can these two come together for one purpose without losing their hearts to each another?

I loved the ongoing theme of this book. Giving control over to the Lord and letting Him fulfill His purpose in the characters lives! Both Cash & Olivia have sincere caring hearts when it comes to helping Rachel. For her part, she’s a normal teenager on the verge of adulthood & bucking against the rules a little. She’s quirky, full of attitude and fun! I couldn’t help but fall in love with her myself! There wasn’t anything I didn’t like about this story. The character depth, funny scenes, emotional turmoil, sweet romance and faith threads all made this book one to both love and remember long after the pages are done!

My favorite book quote: (Olivia) “What if digging up twenty-six years of roots in Colorado and roaring into this Texas town with a trail of dirt behind her wasn’t just about running away from her past? What if God had brought her here to help a young girl?”

[Valri Western · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this first book by a new author! I can't wait to read her next book! Her characters were interesting and I loved the storyline! I've always enjoyed a book with a cowboy and this book has a modern cowboy named Cash - loved that name! He is guardian over his teenage sister Rachel, who has a lot of attitude since the death of their parents. I could only imagine the struggle that would be. Imagine trying to keep a ranch afloat, your own personal life and then deal with a teenage girl? Cash is trying to do all he can but nothing seems to be working! Enter the new volleyball coach and French teacher - Olivia Grayson. Olivia bonds with Rachel almost immediately since Rachel is on the volleyball team. Cash enlists Olivia's help with Rachel and, as they say, the rest is history. I loved all the secondary characters also! I felt that many of the situations were very realistic to real life and not just "fairy tale" situations in a book! Olivia has some big issues in her past that she has to deal with that no one knows about but, of course, they eventually come out and in the end, they help Rachel. I know I will be looking for more from this author!

[Gail Hollingsworth · Rating 5 out of 5]

Olivia is a teacher and volleyball coach that moves from Colorado to escape her past and make a fresh start. Rachel is a student on her team that has lost both her parents and is being raised by her rancher brother Cash. Rachel is a typical teenager, a little hard to handle at times, and definitely dating a bad boy. Cash enlists Olivia's help to bring Rachel's grades up and give womanly advice when needed. As the attraction between Cash and Olivia increases will her secret she ran away from destroy their relationship?
This was a really good in depth story about God's love and forgiveness. As we sometimes make messes of our lives, he uses that for our eventual good. But it also brings out the fact that even though God forgives us we have a hard time forgiving ourselves. It was a sweet story, and one that carried lessons for everyone that opens their heart to God and his Grace.

[Suzan · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a very enjoyable read. I would return to read more by this author. The story is a fun romance with a couple of faithful main characters that each have to overcome their personal issues in order to make a relationship work. Each has a somewhat difficult path, Cash having lost his parents and Olivia having made regrettable choices and ending up miscarrying a child. Both characters make healthy strides, and it is easy to pull for these two to end up together. Their great friends Jack and Janie play wonderful support roles, as does Cash's teenage sister. The faith aspect in the book is strong, but well integrated with the characters growth and reasoning, and is not overbearing or over relied on by the author. The romance is clean, but satisfying. 5 stars! Enjoy

[Jessica Patch · Rating 5 out of 5]

A fabulous debut novel penned by Jill Lynn. Excellent imagery. I felt like I was part of this small Texas town from the weather to the Friday Night Lights (football).

She immediately grabbed me with her strong but flawed heroine who battled guilt over her past and the hunky hero trying to raise his younger sister and do the right thing. Together, they made a wonderful couple worth rooting for. The romantic tension was palpable and the ending, sigh satisfactory.

And if the setting and characters weren't enough the theme of forgiveness, second chances, and hope weaved seamlessly through the pages. Can't wait to read more of Jill Lynn's book.

[Bonnie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed reading Falling For Texas by Jill Lynn. Cash Maddox is trying to raise his sister, Rachel, after their parents were killed in a car accident. Rachel is a troubled teenager. Cash owns a big ranch. The new school year is beginning with new volleyball coach, Olivia Grayson and French teacher. Rachel is the star volleyball player, and her grades are down. Cash ask Olivia to tutor Rachel. She does and there is someing happening between Olivia and Cash. Something in Olivia's past is keeping her from acting on those feeling. Rachel gets kicked off the team for two weeks for Something she did. A lot more goes on in this book. A must read.

[Rebecca · Rating 4 out of 5]

Will Olivia Grayson's regretful past, sabotage her chances at a "happily-ever-after" future? Will Cash Maddox's self-imposed bachelorhood, ruin an opportunity to rescue the family that he is working so hard to save? When a high school volleyball coach crosses paths with a parent-guardian cattle rancher, it seems that everyone begins "falling for Texas".

Enjoy this short, but powerful story of good intentions, divine forgiveness, and subtle reminders that faith and truth must walk hand in hand.

[Melissa Wardwell · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great spring day read. We lost power this morning and since I couldn't write or do chores, I was able to finish the Valentines Day gift from my hubby.
You know it's a good book when you feel the heartache in your own chest. The best line in the whole book~ "Because you are definitely the best thing I've ever caught while fishing."

[Relyn · Rating 3 out of 5]

Relyn Rating: 3.5 stars

It's been a long time since I have sat down and read a straight romance. I read this one because I "met" the author on a blog I love, Mundane Faithfulness. Since I had read a wonderful guest essay by the author, I had to check out her book. I'm so glad I did. This was a sweet love story with two really great messages. This little cupcake of a book made me smile.

[Julie McClain · Rating 5 out of 5]

I could fall for Texas all over again! As I read Jill Lynn's debut novel, I was struck by her natural story telling ability. I was instantly drawn to the characters and invested in their lives and personalities. It's an exciting read and I would recommend it.