What do you think?
Rate this book
Big Sky Mavericks #2
Montana Cowboy
Austen Zabrinski looks the part —
He’s got the ranch, the boots, the hat and even a few head of cattle, but everybody in Marietta, Montana, knows the former golden boy of Marietta High is a wealthy politician, not a cowboy. And even though that nasty scandal in Helena might have knocked him down a notch or two in the polls, what kind of a fool would trade access to the halls of power in Helena and a Harvard law degree for a ranch in western Montana? Possibly one whose new neighbor, Serena James–the woman the guys at Grey’s Saloon call “…the Red Hot Llama Mama”–makes him start to think about what he wants out of life, instead of what’s expected of him.
Serena James knows trouble when it hops her fence–
Moving to Montana and deleting her blog seemed like the perfect solution to her online stalker problem. Serena’s ready for a fresh start, but when her escrow on her ranch falls through, she has to scramble to find an immediate but temporary safe haven to rent for her herd of 50 alpacas, two llamas and one giant dog. Serena’s barely moved in when Austen Zabrinski–the man her landlord called “my absentee ranch owner brother who lives and works in Helena”–hops the fence in need of a lift. Even at first glance, Serena can tell he’s nobody cowboy, but who’s to say that isn’t a good thing? A little tryst with her gorgeous, sexy, here-today-gone-to-Helena-tomorrow neighbor might be the perfect welcome to Montana.
He’s got the ranch, the boots, the hat and even a few head of cattle, but everybody in Marietta, Montana, knows the former golden boy of Marietta High is a wealthy politician, not a cowboy. And even though that nasty scandal in Helena might have knocked him down a notch or two in the polls, what kind of a fool would trade access to the halls of power in Helena and a Harvard law degree for a ranch in western Montana? Possibly one whose new neighbor, Serena James–the woman the guys at Grey’s Saloon call “…the Red Hot Llama Mama”–makes him start to think about what he wants out of life, instead of what’s expected of him.
Serena James knows trouble when it hops her fence–
Moving to Montana and deleting her blog seemed like the perfect solution to her online stalker problem. Serena’s ready for a fresh start, but when her escrow on her ranch falls through, she has to scramble to find an immediate but temporary safe haven to rent for her herd of 50 alpacas, two llamas and one giant dog. Serena’s barely moved in when Austen Zabrinski–the man her landlord called “my absentee ranch owner brother who lives and works in Helena”–hops the fence in need of a lift. Even at first glance, Serena can tell he’s nobody cowboy, but who’s to say that isn’t a good thing? A little tryst with her gorgeous, sexy, here-today-gone-to-Helena-tomorrow neighbor might be the perfect welcome to Montana.
142 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 28, 2014
549 people are currently reading
622 people want to read
About the author
Debra Salonen
128 books208 followers- Born and raised in Brookings, South Dakota. Youngest of five (much youngest). A Baby Boomer who married her high school sweetheart (our lockers were side-by-side). Mother of two, grandmother of three darling princesses, dog mother of 2.5 mutts.
- Graduate of South Dakota State University with a Master’s degree in Geography and History.
- Job history: taxi driver, flax seed counter, cartographer, rural mail carrier, substitute teacher, secretary/community liaison for Merced College’s Child Development Center, bookkeeper, journalist, author.
- First sale story: June, 1999, to Harlequin Superromance. Total number of books sold to Harlequin =27.
- Honors and awards: Romantic Times BOOKreviews, 2006 Series Storyteller of the Year. Winner: Best Superromance of 2010: Until He Met Rachel. Nominated for Desert Quill in 2008.
- First book published by Tule Press, summer 2014: Cowgirl Come Home. The Big Sky Mavericks series opens Aug. 2014 with: Nobody's Cowboy.
- Graduate of South Dakota State University with a Master’s degree in Geography and History.
- Job history: taxi driver, flax seed counter, cartographer, rural mail carrier, substitute teacher, secretary/community liaison for Merced College’s Child Development Center, bookkeeper, journalist, author.
- First sale story: June, 1999, to Harlequin Superromance. Total number of books sold to Harlequin =27.
- Honors and awards: Romantic Times BOOKreviews, 2006 Series Storyteller of the Year. Winner: Best Superromance of 2010: Until He Met Rachel. Nominated for Desert Quill in 2008.
- First book published by Tule Press, summer 2014: Cowgirl Come Home. The Big Sky Mavericks series opens Aug. 2014 with: Nobody's Cowboy.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 93 reviews
June 6, 2020
4 Delightfully Surprising Stars
* * * * Spoiler Free
Do you like it when two people realize they have more in common than not? Do you like it when a fella wants to look out for a woman he has now felt something for and is conflicted about what career choices he must make... and do you love when both people connect and grow into something more?
Then this book is for you. It was well written and the characters were well defined. Tule Publishing is on to something... every book I have read has a unique flavor that hits all the right notes.
It is part of The Big Sky Mavericks series and has an excellent feel of family, community, and just plain warmth.
A gifted copy was provided by Tule Publishing via Netgalley for an honest review.
For more Reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways
* * * * Spoiler Free
Do you like it when two people realize they have more in common than not? Do you like it when a fella wants to look out for a woman he has now felt something for and is conflicted about what career choices he must make... and do you love when both people connect and grow into something more?
Then this book is for you. It was well written and the characters were well defined. Tule Publishing is on to something... every book I have read has a unique flavor that hits all the right notes.
It is part of The Big Sky Mavericks series and has an excellent feel of family, community, and just plain warmth.
A gifted copy was provided by Tule Publishing via Netgalley for an honest review.
For more Reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways
December 9, 2014
I was given Nobody's Cowboy by Net Galley for an honest review.
Serena moved to Montana, with her beloved animals, to get away from a cyber stalker. She has a new start, a new job and her wonderful animals that all she needs, at least that is what she thought until she met Austen Zabrinski. He has his own troubles but they are easy to forget when he is with Serena and her animals.
I was rather excited to read Nobody's Cowboy, I mean the cover made the book seem like it was worth the time and the blurb sold me on wanting to get Nobody's Cowboy.
To read the rest of this review please visit http://lauralusbookreviews.blogspot.c...
Serena moved to Montana, with her beloved animals, to get away from a cyber stalker. She has a new start, a new job and her wonderful animals that all she needs, at least that is what she thought until she met Austen Zabrinski. He has his own troubles but they are easy to forget when he is with Serena and her animals.
I was rather excited to read Nobody's Cowboy, I mean the cover made the book seem like it was worth the time and the blurb sold me on wanting to get Nobody's Cowboy.
To read the rest of this review please visit http://lauralusbookreviews.blogspot.c...
September 23, 2014
Austen Zabrinski's might own a ranch, wear a cowboy hat, and ride a horse, but he is miles away from being a cowboy. Having bought the ranch as a tax-incentive and political show-piece, the place has turned into his safe haven as his world came crashing down. Trying to pull himself up and decide what to do next, Austen's life takes an unexpected turn when he meets his hot, new, alpaca-breeding neighbor, Serena James. Inexplicably drawn to the strong and fiery beauty, Austen can't help but wonder what spell she has weaved around him that has him helping tend sick alpacas and thinking about the f-word...Forever.
Serena James had a very unconventional upbringing. Adopted and raised by hippie, alpaca breeders who lived mostly off the grid in Northern California, Serena decided to move her herd to Montana not just for financial reasons, but some definite personal ones as well. Trying to move on from a scary stalker incident, Serena has changed her e-mail address, cell-phone number, business name, and has shut down her blog. She also vehemently avoids anything to do with publicity or her picture being taken. So maybe getting involved with a high-powered attorney and former politician isn't the best idea in the world. Can she handle it when his old life collides with her new reality?
This is the second book by Debra Salonen to feature Austen Zabrinski, and I have to say, because EVERYONE is thinking it...in the first book Austen Zabrinski was an asshole! Oddly enough, when I heard that Austen was going to be the hero of this book I knew that if anyone could pull off a believable redemption of character for him, it was Debra Salonen. She did it in Cowgirl, Come Home with OC Jenkins, and she succeeded beautifully in this book. Not once did she sacrifice his true character in redeeming him, she simply managed to open his eyes in some very emotional ways.
The character of Serena was beautifully written as both a counter to Austen's static point-of-view and an anchor to his careening lifestyle. I found it very ironic that the stereotypes here are very mishmashed. Serena's hippie upbringing has given her an open mind, yet she is very grounded with a lifestyle that requires her to remain in one location. Austen, on the other hand seems to have adopted a very narrow mindset that is highly contrary to his fast-paced, ever changing career path. A true example of where opposites really do attract.
Overall, this story gave me something to cheer about on many levels. Debra Salonen knows how to write a story to captivate and hold a readers attention the whole way through, and then leave them begging for the next book.
Serena James had a very unconventional upbringing. Adopted and raised by hippie, alpaca breeders who lived mostly off the grid in Northern California, Serena decided to move her herd to Montana not just for financial reasons, but some definite personal ones as well. Trying to move on from a scary stalker incident, Serena has changed her e-mail address, cell-phone number, business name, and has shut down her blog. She also vehemently avoids anything to do with publicity or her picture being taken. So maybe getting involved with a high-powered attorney and former politician isn't the best idea in the world. Can she handle it when his old life collides with her new reality?
This is the second book by Debra Salonen to feature Austen Zabrinski, and I have to say, because EVERYONE is thinking it...in the first book Austen Zabrinski was an asshole! Oddly enough, when I heard that Austen was going to be the hero of this book I knew that if anyone could pull off a believable redemption of character for him, it was Debra Salonen. She did it in Cowgirl, Come Home with OC Jenkins, and she succeeded beautifully in this book. Not once did she sacrifice his true character in redeeming him, she simply managed to open his eyes in some very emotional ways.
The character of Serena was beautifully written as both a counter to Austen's static point-of-view and an anchor to his careening lifestyle. I found it very ironic that the stereotypes here are very mishmashed. Serena's hippie upbringing has given her an open mind, yet she is very grounded with a lifestyle that requires her to remain in one location. Austen, on the other hand seems to have adopted a very narrow mindset that is highly contrary to his fast-paced, ever changing career path. A true example of where opposites really do attract.
Overall, this story gave me something to cheer about on many levels. Debra Salonen knows how to write a story to captivate and hold a readers attention the whole way through, and then leave them begging for the next book.
August 25, 2015
I got this free from Amazon.
I downloaded a bunch of new books. A few of the reviews said this was a decent read. I got about 73% into the book and I had to abandon it.
The book starts off with Austen getting stuck in the field and he walks to Serena's house, his new neighbor.
Austen was a douche from the start. Austen lives on a family owned farm, hiding out and pretending to be a cowboy. The author never really took the time to fully try and explain the circumstances as to why he chose to leave the big city and come hide out on the family farm. It was rather frustrating. What's the big secret?
Serena was a decent character until the author decided to turn her into a slutty mess. She left her family to move to another state with no support system. She is supposedly stalked online and had to relocate to get away from the person. Hmmm, whatever you say. This, too, wasn't explained well.
I found the part where Austen's sister and sister-in-law go to Serena's house to introduce themselves. They open the can of worms about her leaving because of a stalker and she gets pissed and tells them to leave. When she rushes off to confront Austen he apologizes and tells her he was thinking of her and not himself. After she believes his BS they kiss and make up. Shortly after, the sister, sister-in-law and Serena are in the same room together and there wasn't one word mentioned about their dispute. Really? I know I'd be saying something like WTH?
I really hated how there was an attempt at a one night stand. Then when that didn't work out, there was insta-love to take its place. The characters don't even know what love is. There was way too much selfish, fake feelings and bad attitudes in this book.
Overall, this book is poorly written and was quite dull. Luckily, it isn't very long but I couldn't finish it. The premise could have been decent had the author stuck with the farming, like the beginning. I liked the thought of an Alpaca herd and the author seemed to be very knowledgeable about them. But the book took an unpleasant turn. I tried to finish this book but the characters became increasingly irritating. I wasn't willing to keep reading about characters I really didn't like and didn't care about. There was no longer a point to the story and no point in continuing.
I downloaded a bunch of new books. A few of the reviews said this was a decent read. I got about 73% into the book and I had to abandon it.
The book starts off with Austen getting stuck in the field and he walks to Serena's house, his new neighbor.
Austen was a douche from the start. Austen lives on a family owned farm, hiding out and pretending to be a cowboy. The author never really took the time to fully try and explain the circumstances as to why he chose to leave the big city and come hide out on the family farm. It was rather frustrating. What's the big secret?
Serena was a decent character until the author decided to turn her into a slutty mess. She left her family to move to another state with no support system. She is supposedly stalked online and had to relocate to get away from the person. Hmmm, whatever you say. This, too, wasn't explained well.
I found the part where Austen's sister and sister-in-law go to Serena's house to introduce themselves. They open the can of worms about her leaving because of a stalker and she gets pissed and tells them to leave. When she rushes off to confront Austen he apologizes and tells her he was thinking of her and not himself. After she believes his BS they kiss and make up. Shortly after, the sister, sister-in-law and Serena are in the same room together and there wasn't one word mentioned about their dispute. Really? I know I'd be saying something like WTH?
I really hated how there was an attempt at a one night stand. Then when that didn't work out, there was insta-love to take its place. The characters don't even know what love is. There was way too much selfish, fake feelings and bad attitudes in this book.
Overall, this book is poorly written and was quite dull. Luckily, it isn't very long but I couldn't finish it. The premise could have been decent had the author stuck with the farming, like the beginning. I liked the thought of an Alpaca herd and the author seemed to be very knowledgeable about them. But the book took an unpleasant turn. I tried to finish this book but the characters became increasingly irritating. I wasn't willing to keep reading about characters I really didn't like and didn't care about. There was no longer a point to the story and no point in continuing.
August 9, 2019
Very interesting book. The characters were fun, the alpacas were lovely...I wasn’t fond of the stalker but, but overall a nice read!
April 15, 2016
This is another story in the superb Big Sky Mavericks series and I have loved every one that I’ve read - this is no exception! Whilst the stories have many of the same characters appearing in them, they each contain their own romance so it isn’t essential to read them in order as the stories make sense on their own. That’s actually a good thing as for some reason I had missed reading this, the second story in the series, but had read many of the others already!
The stories are set in Marietta, Montana and have the Zabrinski family as key characters. In this case it is Austen Zabrinski, a Harvard trained lawyer and politician who has returned to his cattle ranch after he was the innocent scapegoat of a political scandal. Someone else who has moved to the community to escape unwanted attention is Serena James. She’s renting the ranch adjoining that of Austen and it is here she intends to raise her fifty alpacas - and two llamas. She’s had a cyber stalker unsettling her otherwise peaceful life. She’s no idea if the stalker is male or female, what their intentions are or anything - just that the whole experience has been traumatic and she wants to be away from all that. When Austen and Serena meet, there’s a hilarious scene in which Austen discovers more than he’d intended about alpacas and their habits! You’ll just have to read it yourself to discover what I mean and be thankful that it doesn’t cover you, too!
This story has many laugh out loud moments in it, is thoroughly entertaining and a real page turner. Whilst there are many obstacles in the path of true love, with interfering family members and, of course, the scandal and stalker endangering the couple, this is a delicious read that I enjoyed escaping into. It was great to revisit so many places and characters encountered in other Marietta based stories, it feels like catching up on friends and family. I really enjoy this author’s style, which takes the reader into the scenarios and makes them feel an integral part of the story rather than someone detached and just looking in. I have no hesitation in highly recommending this - and all the other books in this series - to anyone who enjoys reading romances based on families and communities where it feels you are always welcome.
The stories are set in Marietta, Montana and have the Zabrinski family as key characters. In this case it is Austen Zabrinski, a Harvard trained lawyer and politician who has returned to his cattle ranch after he was the innocent scapegoat of a political scandal. Someone else who has moved to the community to escape unwanted attention is Serena James. She’s renting the ranch adjoining that of Austen and it is here she intends to raise her fifty alpacas - and two llamas. She’s had a cyber stalker unsettling her otherwise peaceful life. She’s no idea if the stalker is male or female, what their intentions are or anything - just that the whole experience has been traumatic and she wants to be away from all that. When Austen and Serena meet, there’s a hilarious scene in which Austen discovers more than he’d intended about alpacas and their habits! You’ll just have to read it yourself to discover what I mean and be thankful that it doesn’t cover you, too!
This story has many laugh out loud moments in it, is thoroughly entertaining and a real page turner. Whilst there are many obstacles in the path of true love, with interfering family members and, of course, the scandal and stalker endangering the couple, this is a delicious read that I enjoyed escaping into. It was great to revisit so many places and characters encountered in other Marietta based stories, it feels like catching up on friends and family. I really enjoy this author’s style, which takes the reader into the scenarios and makes them feel an integral part of the story rather than someone detached and just looking in. I have no hesitation in highly recommending this - and all the other books in this series - to anyone who enjoys reading romances based on families and communities where it feels you are always welcome.
August 19, 2015
I really liked this book at the beginning. I thought that it was a great love story between two great characters. I liked how they met and got to know each other, it really did seem like they were meant to be together.
Unfortunately, the book lost my interest about halfway. I did finish reading it, but was kind of disappointed; I was expecting more. It got a little boring because nothing substantial (or really interesting) happened. For example, someone in the book has a stalker. I thought that we would hear more about that and it would be a little bit of suspense, but no. Instead of building on the stalker issue, we quickly found out who it was, just like that. It was more shocking how I found out so quickly, than who it actually was! I was expecting a bit of a build up, especially when it was mentioned the stalker may have been looking through her trash, I thought he/she would definitely make an appearance, but no.
The whole story seemed to be in a rush, with an equal amount of pages (it felt like) devoted to every part in the book: At the pool, at dinner, in Austen's condo, etc; Everything took the same amount of time, everything was taken care of, and all the characters were the same- no one was introduced that wasn't nice. It just didn't feel real how everyone was so nice, and again, it ruined the suspense in the book and it made it boring. Also nothing worrisome or dangerous seemed to happen- it's like everything was guaranteed to end fine because nothing threatening was introduced- apart from Austen's reentry into politics, but even that was short and promised to end well. (There was the stalker thing too, but that was quickly over.)
Two stars only because Austen and Serena are great characters, individually and together. I was rooting for them right from the start. It was worth reading just to be introduced to these characters, regardless how frustrating everything else was.
Also, where was his sister Meg? Why didn't we hear anything from her?
Unfortunately, the book lost my interest about halfway. I did finish reading it, but was kind of disappointed; I was expecting more. It got a little boring because nothing substantial (or really interesting) happened. For example, someone in the book has a stalker. I thought that we would hear more about that and it would be a little bit of suspense, but no. Instead of building on the stalker issue, we quickly found out who it was, just like that. It was more shocking how I found out so quickly, than who it actually was! I was expecting a bit of a build up, especially when it was mentioned the stalker may have been looking through her trash, I thought he/she would definitely make an appearance, but no.
The whole story seemed to be in a rush, with an equal amount of pages (it felt like) devoted to every part in the book: At the pool, at dinner, in Austen's condo, etc; Everything took the same amount of time, everything was taken care of, and all the characters were the same- no one was introduced that wasn't nice. It just didn't feel real how everyone was so nice, and again, it ruined the suspense in the book and it made it boring. Also nothing worrisome or dangerous seemed to happen- it's like everything was guaranteed to end fine because nothing threatening was introduced- apart from Austen's reentry into politics, but even that was short and promised to end well. (There was the stalker thing too, but that was quickly over.)
Two stars only because Austen and Serena are great characters, individually and together. I was rooting for them right from the start. It was worth reading just to be introduced to these characters, regardless how frustrating everything else was.
Also, where was his sister Meg? Why didn't we hear anything from her?
September 9, 2014
Austen Zabrinski has come to his ranch in his hometown of Marietta to escape the fallout of the scandal threatening his political career. He has the ranch and all the trimmings, but has mainly used it as a "boys" vacation in the past, and will be the first to admit he is not a cowboy. Serena James has to scramble for a new place when funding the ranch she planned on buying falls through too close to the arrival of her Alpacas. Paul Zabrinski's ranch (next door to Austen's) fits the bill perfectly. When a riding mishap lands Austen on Serena's doorstep, he finds a refreshing change. Serena, who is hiding out, as well, is a straight-forward, you get what you see person. Austen finds himself drawn to the rancher and her Alpacas, and when it's time to make a choice, will they choose to stay in Marietta and with each other?
We first met Austen in Paul and Bailey's story. He had strong opinions and was not someone I really liked. As I got to know him, I realized there was more to him, and his feelings, and came out rooting for him to find his place. I really liked Serena and Austen as people, and it was fun to see two different people find common ground, and find Austen really understanding her love for her Alpacas... It was also nice to see two characters who weren't perfect, well aware of their flaws, able to admit when they were wrong. I can't wait to read the next story in the series...
We first met Austen in Paul and Bailey's story. He had strong opinions and was not someone I really liked. As I got to know him, I realized there was more to him, and his feelings, and came out rooting for him to find his place. I really liked Serena and Austen as people, and it was fun to see two different people find common ground, and find Austen really understanding her love for her Alpacas... It was also nice to see two characters who weren't perfect, well aware of their flaws, able to admit when they were wrong. I can't wait to read the next story in the series...
September 4, 2014
**I received an ARC in exchange for my honest review**
Austen's been a cowboy in name only--he's had people to run his ranch while he was being a big city lawyer/political spin doctor. Until, his name was erroneously run through the mud. While his forensic account works on the trail to clear his name, he's hanging low and enjoying his ranch. While riding, fate steps in and he's at his neighbor's place asking for help.
Serena's starting over with her alpaca breeding business, hiding from a cyber stalker, and settling into life. Suddenly, she finds herself meeting her neighbor. Living, breathing, sexy cowboy! Not exactly how her landlord described his brother.
As they get to know each other, being neighbors and all, they make an arrangement with benefits, and he even helps her on the ranch--he's getting good at it. And good at other things, too. Suddenly, they're in over their heads--in denial it's love. A few other glitches ensue, and they have to decide--is it worth it? Austen, "Nobody's cowboy" is no longer the rogue, and independent Serena learns it's okay to trust and love, and taking a chance on love is their future. Loved how the bad boy became the good guy in the end!
Austen's been a cowboy in name only--he's had people to run his ranch while he was being a big city lawyer/political spin doctor. Until, his name was erroneously run through the mud. While his forensic account works on the trail to clear his name, he's hanging low and enjoying his ranch. While riding, fate steps in and he's at his neighbor's place asking for help.
Serena's starting over with her alpaca breeding business, hiding from a cyber stalker, and settling into life. Suddenly, she finds herself meeting her neighbor. Living, breathing, sexy cowboy! Not exactly how her landlord described his brother.
As they get to know each other, being neighbors and all, they make an arrangement with benefits, and he even helps her on the ranch--he's getting good at it. And good at other things, too. Suddenly, they're in over their heads--in denial it's love. A few other glitches ensue, and they have to decide--is it worth it? Austen, "Nobody's cowboy" is no longer the rogue, and independent Serena learns it's okay to trust and love, and taking a chance on love is their future. Loved how the bad boy became the good guy in the end!
September 4, 2014
Sometimes, going home is what you need to find what is missing from your life
Disillusioned. Austen Zabrinski feels powerless and defeated after his name is tarnished by a scandal. He is back home at his ranch, but doesn't know a thing about ranching. He's just a wealthy politician. He has always had someone run the ranch for him.
Dubbed by the locals as "hot llama mama", Serena James has recently rented the ranch she is on to raise Alpaca. She moved from California to Montana to start over and hide from a stalker who found her through her blog.
Austen is more then willing to help his pretty new neighbor with her chores when her helper doesn't show up for work. Working close together creates instant attraction between them. They give in to the temptation pretty quick. But will they be able to keep their relationship a secret as to not attract any attention to Serena as she is still trying to keep a low profile and Austen who is still trying to avoid any more scandals?
This a fast paced romance with a lot of laughs thrown in.
Disillusioned. Austen Zabrinski feels powerless and defeated after his name is tarnished by a scandal. He is back home at his ranch, but doesn't know a thing about ranching. He's just a wealthy politician. He has always had someone run the ranch for him.
Dubbed by the locals as "hot llama mama", Serena James has recently rented the ranch she is on to raise Alpaca. She moved from California to Montana to start over and hide from a stalker who found her through her blog.
Austen is more then willing to help his pretty new neighbor with her chores when her helper doesn't show up for work. Working close together creates instant attraction between them. They give in to the temptation pretty quick. But will they be able to keep their relationship a secret as to not attract any attention to Serena as she is still trying to keep a low profile and Austen who is still trying to avoid any more scandals?
This a fast paced romance with a lot of laughs thrown in.
September 5, 2014
Austen Zabrinski is back home in Marietta. His political career and his reputation are in tatters. He has so many problems, but a bright spot is newcomer, Serena James. She and her llamas have his full attention. She is starting a new life. How will she do in Montana? Debra Salonen has written a heart-warming story that is filled with love and passion. Austen's an incredible hero. He starts out as a solitary man but he changes and becomes more open and loving. Serena finds contentment when she settles here. I love that she is such a strong independent woman who can do her own thing. Her romance with Austen is so romantic and passionate that I was hooked. I love visiting Marietta and the people who live there. Nobody's Cowboy is a wonderful feel good story.
March 18, 2015
This is Book 2 in The Big Sky Mavericks series. It is written by Debra Salonen. It is Austen and Serena.
When Serena first sees Austen, she can tell he is "nobody's cowboy".
He owns a ranch, he has his cowboy hat, he has his cowboy boots. Everyone that knows him in Marietta though thinks of him as a wealthy politician, though and not a cowboy. After a nasty scandal, he comes back to his ranch.
Serena is his neighbor. She moved to Montana to get a fresh start, away from her online stalker. She has a herd of alpacas, a few llamas, and her dog. Her escrow falls through, and she has to find a safe haven to rent.
I really enjoyed reading this. I love the first time Serena and Austen meet. There is instant sparks! I enjoyed learning more about alpacas.
When Serena first sees Austen, she can tell he is "nobody's cowboy".
He owns a ranch, he has his cowboy hat, he has his cowboy boots. Everyone that knows him in Marietta though thinks of him as a wealthy politician, though and not a cowboy. After a nasty scandal, he comes back to his ranch.
Serena is his neighbor. She moved to Montana to get a fresh start, away from her online stalker. She has a herd of alpacas, a few llamas, and her dog. Her escrow falls through, and she has to find a safe haven to rent.
I really enjoyed reading this. I love the first time Serena and Austen meet. There is instant sparks! I enjoyed learning more about alpacas.
September 5, 2014
I was so excited to see that Austen got his own story, I thought he was such a "PITA" , when we first met him in Cowgirl Come Home. I just knew there was something true buried inside him. When he first met Serena, "Serene", there was an immediate chemistry between the two. While reading this story my family was wondering why I was laughing so hard." Communal toilet...Austen is redeeming himself already." I really enjoyed learning so much about the alpaca breed.
This is first book in the Big Sky Mavericks, I am so looking forward to reading the others in the series. I highly recommend this book for a fun sexy read.
This is first book in the Big Sky Mavericks, I am so looking forward to reading the others in the series. I highly recommend this book for a fun sexy read.
September 5, 2014
I loved this story, The cute Alpaca's, the ranch life , the family what they were like when they were kids and than as adults, oh and yes the hot romance, and how the storys end is wrapped up, no cliff hanger here, but I do admit it really made me want to read the rest of the series to find out what happens with Austen's sisters.
And I just have to read more from this author I love her style of writing.
I would recommend it to all who love to read romance and don't mind a little humor thrown in.
And I just have to read more from this author I love her style of writing.
I would recommend it to all who love to read romance and don't mind a little humor thrown in.
December 28, 2014
Loved this story!! Austen Zabrinski has returned to Marietta to lick his wounds after his political career he had worked so hard for blew up. He doesn't know what his future holds but for now he is content hiding out on his ranch. Serena James came to Marietta for a fresh start and get away from a stalker. When she meets Austen there is an immediate attraction but his current notoriety won't help her stay under the radar.
This is a fun sexy story that was very entertaining. The writing and story were great and as always I love the Marietta setting. I highly recommend this one.
This is a fun sexy story that was very entertaining. The writing and story were great and as always I love the Marietta setting. I highly recommend this one.
September 17, 2014
This was a fun story to read. Serena and Austin made a great couple, but the Alpaca's were pretty great too. Serena is trying to hide from a stalker, and Austin is trying to hide from a political scandal. The way they interacted with her Alpacas was really touching as well.
I highly recommend this story. It was fun reading it. I will probably be reading it again just to experience the Alpaca birth scene another time.
I highly recommend this story. It was fun reading it. I will probably be reading it again just to experience the Alpaca birth scene another time.
September 13, 2014
I like the family featured in this Big Sky Mavericks series, and I'm looking forward to sister Mia's story.
Austen is a great beta hero. He analyzes everything, and isn't one for jumping in---although he jumped into intimacy with Serena fast enough!
I loved the alpacas in the story, and ended up watching alpacas and baby alpacas on YouTube. A fun read, just wanted a bit more, which isn't unusual with any novella.
Austen is a great beta hero. He analyzes everything, and isn't one for jumping in---although he jumped into intimacy with Serena fast enough!
I loved the alpacas in the story, and ended up watching alpacas and baby alpacas on YouTube. A fun read, just wanted a bit more, which isn't unusual with any novella.
November 16, 2016
SPOILERS BELOW
Lost a star because every character in the book coerced the heroine into meeting her biological mother who had been stalking her online. No one respected this woman's right to not speak to someone who had terrified her into moving several states away. Making the whole thing seem like a big misunderstanding really pissed me off. Online stalking deserved to be taken more seriously than that.
Lost a star because every character in the book coerced the heroine into meeting her biological mother who had been stalking her online. No one respected this woman's right to not speak to someone who had terrified her into moving several states away. Making the whole thing seem like a big misunderstanding really pissed me off. Online stalking deserved to be taken more seriously than that.
October 13, 2014
I really enjoyed Nobody's Cowboy. I was surprised at how much I liked Austen Zabrinski. And I found the matching with Serena James was a perfect fit. I may have liked both characters individually but I think that as a pair they were irresistible. Nobody's Cowboy had me laughing and smiling while reading and rooting for Austen and Serena to get their happily ever after.
September 6, 2014
I absolutely loved Nobody's Cowboy! I wasn't fond of Austen when we met him in Cowgirl Come Home. He did completely redeem himself pretty fast in this book though. Austen and Serena had an instant attraction to one another that really held my interest throughout the book. I also enjoyed how they bonded over the alpacas. I thought the book was well written and flowed really well.
December 10, 2014
read/review for a honest opinion for tule
Loved this book. enjoued the characters and dialogue. looking forward to reading more by this author.
Loved this book. enjoued the characters and dialogue. looking forward to reading more by this author.
Want to read
July 10, 2015Free 07-10-15 (Western Romance Novella)
http://www.amazon.com/Montana-Cowboy-...
http://www.amazon.com/Montana-Cowboy-...
August 30, 2015
Change
Just couldn't get into the story. I was kinda bored with the story. It was a okay read from the beginning.
Just couldn't get into the story. I was kinda bored with the story. It was a okay read from the beginning.
June 16, 2017
Austen Zabrinski and Serena's romance. She raises alpacas and he is recovering from a nasty political scandal in Helena,MT. Even though exonerated from wrong-doing he decides not to return to his old lifestyle.
He & his twin sister, Mia are planning to set up a lawyer shop in town with Mia concentrating more on people cases and AZ on financial ones.
The story had a great start but fizzled a bit for me by the end.
He & his twin sister, Mia are planning to set up a lawyer shop in town with Mia concentrating more on people cases and AZ on financial ones.
The story had a great start but fizzled a bit for me by the end.
August 8, 2019
I loved the introduction of new animals other than the expected cattle in a Montana based story. Alpacas and Llamas brought a different feel to this interesting story where both the hero and heroine were making life altering decisions. The characters are likeable and for once there was no evil scheming female trying to destroy their budding relationship. All in all, quite a civilised but interesting romance.
August 8, 2019
An entertaining love story.
This was a heartwarming story. Serena, Austen and the rest of the characters are great. Serena's ranch sounds messy but the alpacas and the information about them was interesting. Austen's reasons for returning to his ranch is interesting and his feelings for alpacas and Serena are entertaining. I enjoyed learning about Austen and Serena's families and their problems and their journeys to overcome them.
This was a heartwarming story. Serena, Austen and the rest of the characters are great. Serena's ranch sounds messy but the alpacas and the information about them was interesting. Austen's reasons for returning to his ranch is interesting and his feelings for alpacas and Serena are entertaining. I enjoyed learning about Austen and Serena's families and their problems and their journeys to overcome them.
August 11, 2019
For 66 years I've been a preacher. I feel that sex is a very important part of any marriage. But I've seen alot of couples who think that's the main thing, like this couple has. And a few years down the road, that's not enough to hold love together. Oh yes, there are a few that make it. Never-the-less, I liked this read in many ways, but I do feel sorry for what is likely to happen to the couple. Thanks for the read tho.
October 15, 2019
Debra Solonen tells the story of real people who have flaws. As the story of Austen and Serena progresses you become part of their personal growth and struggles. The landscape of western Montana adds depth to the narrative. Debra's use of language paints such vivid pictures that the story becomes alive. In 'Montana Cowboy' I could see the smile on the alpaca's face and feel her soft wool as she nuzzled me. The story stayed with me long after the book came to an end.
February 20, 2019
Becoming More
Serena began a new life out of fear. Austen left his life in shame and lost confidence. When the two met something happened. It was as if the two could read eAch other's mind. Too many outside influences put the romance on hold. Read Montana Cowboy to find out how it all unfolds in Marietta, Montana.
Serena began a new life out of fear. Austen left his life in shame and lost confidence. When the two met something happened. It was as if the two could read eAch other's mind. Too many outside influences put the romance on hold. Read Montana Cowboy to find out how it all unfolds in Marietta, Montana.
June 10, 2024
A politician’s life can be a sticky one
Serena and Austin definitely come from different worlds. He has been a bigger than life political being as long as he can remember. She is the off grid daughter of old hippies. He visits the ranch he bought as a tax wright off. She leases his brother’s ranch to raise alpacas and llamas. How can they possibly find any common ground?
Serena and Austin definitely come from different worlds. He has been a bigger than life political being as long as he can remember. She is the off grid daughter of old hippies. He visits the ranch he bought as a tax wright off. She leases his brother’s ranch to raise alpacas and llamas. How can they possibly find any common ground?
Displaying 1 - 30 of 93 reviews