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By the Bootstraps
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Expected 26 May 26Win a free print copy of this book!
28 days and 06:54:02
10 copies available
U.S. only
A cowboy romance enthusiast discovers that everything’s bigger in Texas—even love—in this swoony novel from beloved author Alexa Martin.
Fueled by a love of romance novels, Luna Starr was destined for a life with her head in the clouds. Her delusional tendencies serve her well…or at least they used to. When life throws her a curveball, she decides it’s time to turn her cowboy fantasies into reality and purchases a tiny farm in Celestial, Texas. After all, don’t all heroines try to outrun grief?
Tate Jacobs hates cowboys, which is a small problem, considering his family happens to own the largest ranch in Celestial. Life might not have gone the way he wanted, but as head coach at his old high school and the town’s best (and only) handyman, he’s figured out how to stay busy and keep his head down—until the new girl in town shows up. Luna’s new property is a bad accident waiting to happen unless someone helps her with her DIY home renovations.
As Tate and Luna spend more time together fixing up her house, unexpected feelings and undeniable chemistry bubble to the surface. Luna might’ve moved to Celestial to make her cowboy dreams come true, but somewhere beneath the vast Texas skies, she discovers that love in the real world can be far better than she imagined.
Fueled by a love of romance novels, Luna Starr was destined for a life with her head in the clouds. Her delusional tendencies serve her well…or at least they used to. When life throws her a curveball, she decides it’s time to turn her cowboy fantasies into reality and purchases a tiny farm in Celestial, Texas. After all, don’t all heroines try to outrun grief?
Tate Jacobs hates cowboys, which is a small problem, considering his family happens to own the largest ranch in Celestial. Life might not have gone the way he wanted, but as head coach at his old high school and the town’s best (and only) handyman, he’s figured out how to stay busy and keep his head down—until the new girl in town shows up. Luna’s new property is a bad accident waiting to happen unless someone helps her with her DIY home renovations.
As Tate and Luna spend more time together fixing up her house, unexpected feelings and undeniable chemistry bubble to the surface. Luna might’ve moved to Celestial to make her cowboy dreams come true, but somewhere beneath the vast Texas skies, she discovers that love in the real world can be far better than she imagined.
400 pages, Paperback
Expected publication May 26, 2026
About the author
Alexa Martin
9 books2,269 followersAlexa Martin is a writer and stay at home mom. She lives in Colorado with her husband, a former NFL player who now coaches at the high school where they met, their four children, and a German Shepherd. When she's not telling her kids to put their shoes on...again, you can find her catching up with her latest book boyfriend or on Pinterest pinning meals she'll probably never make. Her first book, Intercepted, was inspired by the eight years she spent as an NFL wife.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews
October 27, 2025
I always know my joy is safe in Alexa Martin’s hands, but By the Bootstraps builds an entire world for it. I never knew I needed the Texas cowboy version of Gilmore girls, but apparently wherever Alexa leads I will follow and happily!
September 28, 2025
Black. Cowboys. Need I say more?
But in all seriousness, Alexa’s newest is so full of heart and character.
But in all seriousness, Alexa’s newest is so full of heart and character.
April 18, 2026
I received an ARC of this book from NetGalley and Berkley Publishing Group in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
By the Bootstraps by Alexa Martin is so much more than a romance; it is a vibrant, epic tale of a woman finding herself as she rebuilds her life and heals grief. Set against a perfectly realized backdrop of small-town Texas, where football and cowboy cultures collide, the story follows Luna as she attempts to rebuild her life from the ground up.
While the chemistry and banter are top-tier, the true heart of this book lies in the female friendships. Luna’s journey is supported by a "found family" that feels incredibly real and raw. If you are a "girl’s girl," this book is for you. The redemption arcs are messy, and the family dynamics are complicated, reflecting the reality that even "good" families can be difficult. It’s a story that provides a space for the soul to be whole, even in its imperfection.
Watching Luna and her love interest, Tate, navigate their respective versions of grief and disappointment was deeply satisfying. Their story feels "soft" and healing, focusing on their gradual process of opening up to one another. Luna is a relatable heroine. She is messy, stubborn, and hilariously human, which makes her growth feel earned because the story never pretends she is perfect.
Written in a single POV, the narrative remains firmly focused on Luna’s internal evolution, which felt appropriate given that this is truly her story. My only point of frustration was the ending; the conflict felt slightly unnecessary and was resolved so quickly that the final pages felt rushed. I found myself wishing for just a bit more of that hard-earned Happily Ever After.
Perhaps it was my small-town Texan nostalgia or just the perfect vibes, but this was an absolute standout. It balances laugh-out-loud humor with low-key emotional weight, making it a grounded and real second-chance story. For my first Alexa Martin novel, I couldn't have asked for a better introduction.
By the Bootstraps by Alexa Martin is so much more than a romance; it is a vibrant, epic tale of a woman finding herself as she rebuilds her life and heals grief. Set against a perfectly realized backdrop of small-town Texas, where football and cowboy cultures collide, the story follows Luna as she attempts to rebuild her life from the ground up.
While the chemistry and banter are top-tier, the true heart of this book lies in the female friendships. Luna’s journey is supported by a "found family" that feels incredibly real and raw. If you are a "girl’s girl," this book is for you. The redemption arcs are messy, and the family dynamics are complicated, reflecting the reality that even "good" families can be difficult. It’s a story that provides a space for the soul to be whole, even in its imperfection.
Watching Luna and her love interest, Tate, navigate their respective versions of grief and disappointment was deeply satisfying. Their story feels "soft" and healing, focusing on their gradual process of opening up to one another. Luna is a relatable heroine. She is messy, stubborn, and hilariously human, which makes her growth feel earned because the story never pretends she is perfect.
Written in a single POV, the narrative remains firmly focused on Luna’s internal evolution, which felt appropriate given that this is truly her story. My only point of frustration was the ending; the conflict felt slightly unnecessary and was resolved so quickly that the final pages felt rushed. I found myself wishing for just a bit more of that hard-earned Happily Ever After.
Perhaps it was my small-town Texan nostalgia or just the perfect vibes, but this was an absolute standout. It balances laugh-out-loud humor with low-key emotional weight, making it a grounded and real second-chance story. For my first Alexa Martin novel, I couldn't have asked for a better introduction.
April 20, 2026
Cowboy romance x Friday night lights
I adore everything this woman writes - 4.5 stars!
Per usual I loved this book!!! Alexa Martin is one of my favorite authors and knows how to just suck you into her worlds.
I loved the small snippet of a love triangle and really enjoyed reading about Luna's journey to finding herself and falling in love with Celestial, TX. I loved that Tate and Silas were opposites, but also so alike! I adored all of the side characters and hope that they find their way into their own novel in this series.
Small town romance
Friday night lights x cowboys
grumpy/sunshine
grief journey with lightheartedness
I really hope that Alexa writes Silas and their sister, Ciara's stories next!
I rate this book 4.5 stars because I feel like the ending was too rushed and would have liked to have seen more development in the end.
I adore everything this woman writes - 4.5 stars!
Per usual I loved this book!!! Alexa Martin is one of my favorite authors and knows how to just suck you into her worlds.
I loved the small snippet of a love triangle and really enjoyed reading about Luna's journey to finding herself and falling in love with Celestial, TX. I loved that Tate and Silas were opposites, but also so alike! I adored all of the side characters and hope that they find their way into their own novel in this series.
Small town romance
Friday night lights x cowboys
grumpy/sunshine
grief journey with lightheartedness
I really hope that Alexa writes Silas and their sister, Ciara's stories next!
I rate this book 4.5 stars because I feel like the ending was too rushed and would have liked to have seen more development in the end.
March 23, 2026
3.5⭐️
Cowboy romances are just so much fun! Do I like cowboys in real life, as a native Texas, absolutely not, but there's just something about fictional ones that always works. By the Bootstraps delivers on this with a fun and emotional story about starting over and finding yourself and your people.
This book had so many unique and quirky elements that had me wishing I lived in a small town. Luna is immediately absorbed into this setting and the people of Celestial are more than happy to welcome her in. The energy of the town is overwhelming, but in the best way and the author introduces you to so many fun characters that you can’t help but feel a part of their small town life.
When Luna meets the reluctant and grumpy Tate, it really is the epitome of grumpy x sunshine. All her bright colors mixed with his perpetual gray cloud is everything you’d want. Their banter and teasing is so clever, but then mixed with the dry humor, it really kept me wanting more.
Unfortunately, that was also an issue I had with the book. At first I could feel the spark between the FMC & MMC, but then I feel like I lost it. Their chemistry felt off and their relationship seemed very rushed. I think because we had these small time jumps, we weren’t able to see more of the build up of feelings between them, so once they got together, it was hard to believe it. And not just in their storyline, but as a whole, the book felt a little bit disjointed even if it had all of the right moving parts. There were so many elements that I loved and I think this could have been great, but it fell a little flat the longer I read. I also was very frustrated with Luna at the end and the unnecessary conflict, which was then wrapped up within just a few pages and made the ending feel a little too rushed.
I wanted to love this one so badly and give it a full 5 stars, but as more issues arose within the structure of the story, I felt too far removed to enjoy it. However, the author did give us a solid foundation to build upon if she chooses to write in this universe again (hoping for a book about Silas), and I look forward to what she writes in the future, but this one sadly missed the mark for me.
Thank you NetGalley & Berkley for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Cowboy romances are just so much fun! Do I like cowboys in real life, as a native Texas, absolutely not, but there's just something about fictional ones that always works. By the Bootstraps delivers on this with a fun and emotional story about starting over and finding yourself and your people.
This book had so many unique and quirky elements that had me wishing I lived in a small town. Luna is immediately absorbed into this setting and the people of Celestial are more than happy to welcome her in. The energy of the town is overwhelming, but in the best way and the author introduces you to so many fun characters that you can’t help but feel a part of their small town life.
When Luna meets the reluctant and grumpy Tate, it really is the epitome of grumpy x sunshine. All her bright colors mixed with his perpetual gray cloud is everything you’d want. Their banter and teasing is so clever, but then mixed with the dry humor, it really kept me wanting more.
Unfortunately, that was also an issue I had with the book. At first I could feel the spark between the FMC & MMC, but then I feel like I lost it. Their chemistry felt off and their relationship seemed very rushed. I think because we had these small time jumps, we weren’t able to see more of the build up of feelings between them, so once they got together, it was hard to believe it. And not just in their storyline, but as a whole, the book felt a little bit disjointed even if it had all of the right moving parts. There were so many elements that I loved and I think this could have been great, but it fell a little flat the longer I read. I also was very frustrated with Luna at the end and the unnecessary conflict, which was then wrapped up within just a few pages and made the ending feel a little too rushed.
I wanted to love this one so badly and give it a full 5 stars, but as more issues arose within the structure of the story, I felt too far removed to enjoy it. However, the author did give us a solid foundation to build upon if she chooses to write in this universe again (hoping for a book about Silas), and I look forward to what she writes in the future, but this one sadly missed the mark for me.
Thank you NetGalley & Berkley for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
3.5⭐
Thank you so much to NetGalley and Berkley for the ARC!
This was my first Alexa Martin read, so I didn't know what to expect. I love a cowboy/small town romance, and I'm obsessed with anything celestial related, so reading the blurb and seeing the cover immediately drew me in!
Overall, I thought By the Bootstraps was a cute read, but I'll admit I had some issues with it, and I'm so sad that I did.
Let's start with the positive! I loved everything about the small town of Celestial, including all of the little details and characters, such as the football team. I really liked Tate and his family, Luna's friendships, and the overall "found family" trope! I also enjoyed Luna's DIY journey. I thought that was fun!
As for what I didn't like ... first off, it took me a bit longer than usual to get into the story. However, that could just be me. It had been a bit since I read a first-person single POV romance. Going off that, my main issue with the story was that although this is a romance, I felt that Luna's relationship with Tate was more of a side plot, and her journey (including her own struggles and navigating her grief) was more the main plot. It seemed that after Luna and Tate finally got together, they were only together for a minute, before the main conflict came to a head at the end, and then was resolved super quickly. I also felt that all of Tate's drama with his dad wasn't really resolved (but that could have been intentional to set up for future books?)
Despite this, I still liked the story, especially because it was something different. I will also definitely tune in for the second book because I need to know what happens with Silas and the one who got away!
Thank you so much to NetGalley and Berkley for the ARC!
This was my first Alexa Martin read, so I didn't know what to expect. I love a cowboy/small town romance, and I'm obsessed with anything celestial related, so reading the blurb and seeing the cover immediately drew me in!
Overall, I thought By the Bootstraps was a cute read, but I'll admit I had some issues with it, and I'm so sad that I did.
Let's start with the positive! I loved everything about the small town of Celestial, including all of the little details and characters, such as the football team. I really liked Tate and his family, Luna's friendships, and the overall "found family" trope! I also enjoyed Luna's DIY journey. I thought that was fun!
As for what I didn't like ... first off, it took me a bit longer than usual to get into the story. However, that could just be me. It had been a bit since I read a first-person single POV romance. Going off that, my main issue with the story was that although this is a romance, I felt that Luna's relationship with Tate was more of a side plot, and her journey (including her own struggles and navigating her grief) was more the main plot. It seemed that after Luna and Tate finally got together, they were only together for a minute, before the main conflict came to a head at the end, and then was resolved super quickly. I also felt that all of Tate's drama with his dad wasn't really resolved (but that could have been intentional to set up for future books?)
Despite this, I still liked the story, especially because it was something different. I will also definitely tune in for the second book because I need to know what happens with Silas and the one who got away!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This was FANTASTIC! I really love Alexa’s writing, and it really was SO GOOD in this one! I love this new town and all these new characters! The female friendships are written so well, and they’re all al strong! I love how quickly Luna was able to find a family in Celestial, and how close she was able to keep Gabby even from across the country! I already cannot wait to be back in this small town just from the small crumbs Alexa’s left us!!!! I am screaming with excitement!!!
LUNA AND TATE ARE PERFECT! There is simply nothing I love more than a SUNSHINE GIRL and a GRUMPY BOY okay!! Especially when he is SO DOWN BAD it’s not even funny!!! They were the perfect pair. From their very first meeting their chemistry was electric and I was clamoring for MOOOOORE any time they weren’t on page together!!!! I also LOVED how quickly Tate’s family took her in. She was missing that family feeling in her life, and while was able to find it with her friends, I think it was so important that Tate’s family was also so warm and welcoming!!
I also really appreciated the way Alexa wrote Luna’s grief throughout the book. She was still very much dealing with the loss of her mother and her grandmother. And while she was trying to build a new life, and doing it successfully, she wasn’t actually handling her feelings and I really did like that eventually Gabby set her straight but was always there for her regardless of her choices!
Again I can’t wait to be back and (hopefully) see what else the Jacobs siblings have to offer!! I think both Silas and Ciara will have such fun stories!!! Along with maybe a little something for Millie?! And maybe even Gabby!?? Whatever comes next I will be here!!
Thanks to Berkley for the arc in exchange for an honest review!!
LUNA AND TATE ARE PERFECT! There is simply nothing I love more than a SUNSHINE GIRL and a GRUMPY BOY okay!! Especially when he is SO DOWN BAD it’s not even funny!!! They were the perfect pair. From their very first meeting their chemistry was electric and I was clamoring for MOOOOORE any time they weren’t on page together!!!! I also LOVED how quickly Tate’s family took her in. She was missing that family feeling in her life, and while was able to find it with her friends, I think it was so important that Tate’s family was also so warm and welcoming!!
I also really appreciated the way Alexa wrote Luna’s grief throughout the book. She was still very much dealing with the loss of her mother and her grandmother. And while she was trying to build a new life, and doing it successfully, she wasn’t actually handling her feelings and I really did like that eventually Gabby set her straight but was always there for her regardless of her choices!
Again I can’t wait to be back and (hopefully) see what else the Jacobs siblings have to offer!! I think both Silas and Ciara will have such fun stories!!! Along with maybe a little something for Millie?! And maybe even Gabby!?? Whatever comes next I will be here!!
Thanks to Berkley for the arc in exchange for an honest review!!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I'm loving all of the black cowboy books I've been reading lately!! PLEASEEEEE keep em coming y'all!!
But seriously this was such an amazing book! This was actually my first read by Alexa and I was not disappointed at all!! It had tension, it had drama, it had romance, it had BLACK cowboys... I was loving it all!!
I will say the only thing I didn't enjoy was the 3rd act break up, I am absolutely not a fan of 3rd act breakups but that's just me I know some people love them. But even with that being said, I very much enjoyed this book and would still give it 5 stars!
Luna: whew lawd the girl has suffered so much pain and loss and grief I truly felt bad for her. There was so much emotion and grief played into her character and it was written beautifully.. because truly, how do you cope with that much loss?
Tate: loved this grumpy, moody man down!! He was down bad for Luna and I loved to see it honestly
Silas, Ciara, Gabby and Millie were all amazing side characters as well! I loved the little love triangle snippet we had towards the beginning with Luna, Silas, and Tate! Silas is such a sweetheart and I hope he eventually gets a book or novella or something! Millie and Ciara were hilarious too! Loved Millie down, she reminded me of my bestie! And also loved how real Gabby was!! We all need a Gabby in our life to call us out on our sh*t!!
Soooo yeah basically I loved this book and hopefully you will too!!
Thank you to Alexa Martin, Berkley Publishing Group, and NetGalley for this eARC! I truly enjoyed it and can't wait to read more of Alexa's works!! 🖤
But seriously this was such an amazing book! This was actually my first read by Alexa and I was not disappointed at all!! It had tension, it had drama, it had romance, it had BLACK cowboys... I was loving it all!!
I will say the only thing I didn't enjoy was the 3rd act break up, I am absolutely not a fan of 3rd act breakups but that's just me I know some people love them. But even with that being said, I very much enjoyed this book and would still give it 5 stars!
Luna: whew lawd the girl has suffered so much pain and loss and grief I truly felt bad for her. There was so much emotion and grief played into her character and it was written beautifully.. because truly, how do you cope with that much loss?
Tate: loved this grumpy, moody man down!! He was down bad for Luna and I loved to see it honestly
Silas, Ciara, Gabby and Millie were all amazing side characters as well! I loved the little love triangle snippet we had towards the beginning with Luna, Silas, and Tate! Silas is such a sweetheart and I hope he eventually gets a book or novella or something! Millie and Ciara were hilarious too! Loved Millie down, she reminded me of my bestie! And also loved how real Gabby was!! We all need a Gabby in our life to call us out on our sh*t!!
Soooo yeah basically I loved this book and hopefully you will too!!
Thank you to Alexa Martin, Berkley Publishing Group, and NetGalley for this eARC! I truly enjoyed it and can't wait to read more of Alexa's works!! 🖤
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
I just knew this book was going to emotionally destroy me—in the best way possible—and somehow it still exceeded my expectations. It balances heartbreak and chaos so perfectly, delivering a story that’s just as fun and messy as it is deeply moving.
Luna Starr completely stole my heart. She’s the kind of main character you can’t help but root for—raw, real, and carrying so much grief. And yes, she’s still figuring things out, but that’s what makes her feel so human. Healing isn’t linear, and the story doesn’t rush her through it. Instead, it gives her the space she deserves to process everything she’s been through. If she wants to cope by redecorating her home in her own unique, slightly chaotic way? Let her. She’s earned that autonomy, and honestly, it becomes part of her charm.
What I loved most is how the book handles love. It doesn’t come in as something forced or overly dramatic—it sneaks up on Luna, quietly and unexpectedly. And instead of pushing it away, she lets it happen in her own time. The romance blooms so naturally, growing out of vulnerability, trust, and those small, meaningful moments that feel so real it almost hurts.
This story is a beautiful reminder that even in the middle of grief, joy can find you. Love can find you. And sometimes, the most unexpected connections end up meaning the most. It’s emotional, it’s chaotic, it’s comforting—and I absolutely loved every second of it.
Luna Starr completely stole my heart. She’s the kind of main character you can’t help but root for—raw, real, and carrying so much grief. And yes, she’s still figuring things out, but that’s what makes her feel so human. Healing isn’t linear, and the story doesn’t rush her through it. Instead, it gives her the space she deserves to process everything she’s been through. If she wants to cope by redecorating her home in her own unique, slightly chaotic way? Let her. She’s earned that autonomy, and honestly, it becomes part of her charm.
What I loved most is how the book handles love. It doesn’t come in as something forced or overly dramatic—it sneaks up on Luna, quietly and unexpectedly. And instead of pushing it away, she lets it happen in her own time. The romance blooms so naturally, growing out of vulnerability, trust, and those small, meaningful moments that feel so real it almost hurts.
This story is a beautiful reminder that even in the middle of grief, joy can find you. Love can find you. And sometimes, the most unexpected connections end up meaning the most. It’s emotional, it’s chaotic, it’s comforting—and I absolutely loved every second of it.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This was my first cowboy romance and I can say with all certainty that I loved it and I am excited to read more romances with handsome cowboys in it.
I would 100 percent recommend this book to anyone looking for a cowboy romance with complex characters.
some of the tropes
-cozy
-cowboy romance
-former football star
-small-town
-grumpy x sunshine
-POC characters
The story follows FMC Luna who decides she need to move from Denver to Colorado due t0 her mom passing away and other family drama. her goal with this move is to hit reset and hopefully replicate some of the life experiences she read in her cowboy romance books. AND GUEST WHAT!? she does, she meets TWO handsome cowboys and she will have the time of her life one of them.
I really loved the magical details the author added to the characters and the specific part of the story to make the story cozy.
Luna in Celestial ,Tx along with the characters quickly personality made the FMC a little more special, each character had personalities that would have naturally drawn these characters together.
While I am a personal fan of slow burns and would have loved to witness that in the main characters is simply part of a good romance to burn fast.
The past from both Main characters and how shaped them and their actions felt very realistic and I really enjoyed the character development.
Thank you NetGalley for this wonderful ARC.
I would 100 percent recommend this book to anyone looking for a cowboy romance with complex characters.
some of the tropes
-cozy
-cowboy romance
-former football star
-small-town
-grumpy x sunshine
-POC characters
The story follows FMC Luna who decides she need to move from Denver to Colorado due t0 her mom passing away and other family drama. her goal with this move is to hit reset and hopefully replicate some of the life experiences she read in her cowboy romance books. AND GUEST WHAT!? she does, she meets TWO handsome cowboys and she will have the time of her life one of them.
I really loved the magical details the author added to the characters and the specific part of the story to make the story cozy.
Luna in Celestial ,Tx along with the characters quickly personality made the FMC a little more special, each character had personalities that would have naturally drawn these characters together.
While I am a personal fan of slow burns and would have loved to witness that in the main characters is simply part of a good romance to burn fast.
The past from both Main characters and how shaped them and their actions felt very realistic and I really enjoyed the character development.
Thank you NetGalley for this wonderful ARC.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Leaving her past in Colorado behind her, Luna decides to move to small town Celestial, Texas. Her new house needs a lot of work, but Luna is up to making her vision come to life. When her bathtub literally falls through the floor Luna ends up calling the town handyman and head high school football coach Tate Jacobs. Both are trying to reconcile with their messy pasts and familial dynamics. As Luna becomes a part of Celestial and gains found family she finally seems to have found the happiness that has evaded her for so long. With her pink chicken coop, a library shed and a supportive group of girlfriends Luna has curated the small town life she has dreamt of. But when a toxic family member shows up determined to take it all away from her, Luna must face her painful emotions and fight for her happiness.
This will be at the top of my favorite reads of the year. I love a good small town romance and immediately wanted to jump on a plane a visit Celestial. The strong, determined feminist Luna is makes me want to be her best friend. And I think we all know guys with a gruff exterior but a soft heart, so Tate can’t be any more lovable. Also we can all relate to dealing with toxic family member and how hard it is to stand up to them. I just finished reading this and want to start it over again.
This will be at the top of my favorite reads of the year. I love a good small town romance and immediately wanted to jump on a plane a visit Celestial. The strong, determined feminist Luna is makes me want to be her best friend. And I think we all know guys with a gruff exterior but a soft heart, so Tate can’t be any more lovable. Also we can all relate to dealing with toxic family member and how hard it is to stand up to them. I just finished reading this and want to start it over again.
April 19, 2026
By the Bootstraps was such a fun and flirty romance loaded with emotional depth. If the tropes don’t have you already invested in picking up this book, the characters definitely will!
Tate Jacobs is top-tier book boyfriend material. He’s the local head football coach and a reluctant handyman who is so down bad for our girl Luna it’s not even funny. Watching his walls crumble around her bright, chaotic energy was everything!
Luna Starr is messy, stubborn, and unapologetically herself. She’s navigating heavy grief and a "degree in HGTV" DIY journey that involves a bathtub falling through a floor... literally. 😂 She felt so human and relatable!
Found family is one of my favorite tropes, and the side characters in this story really stole the show! From the Jacobs siblings (I need Silas’s story yesterday!) to the fierce female friendships, the community in Celestial is the kind of welcoming, quirky environment you never want to leave.
Beyond the electric chemistry and clever banter, this is a beautiful tale about starting over. It handles grief and self-discovery with so much grace. It’s emotional, hope-filled, and a perfect reminder that joy can find you even when you’re still healing.
Tate Jacobs is top-tier book boyfriend material. He’s the local head football coach and a reluctant handyman who is so down bad for our girl Luna it’s not even funny. Watching his walls crumble around her bright, chaotic energy was everything!
Luna Starr is messy, stubborn, and unapologetically herself. She’s navigating heavy grief and a "degree in HGTV" DIY journey that involves a bathtub falling through a floor... literally. 😂 She felt so human and relatable!
Found family is one of my favorite tropes, and the side characters in this story really stole the show! From the Jacobs siblings (I need Silas’s story yesterday!) to the fierce female friendships, the community in Celestial is the kind of welcoming, quirky environment you never want to leave.
Beyond the electric chemistry and clever banter, this is a beautiful tale about starting over. It handles grief and self-discovery with so much grace. It’s emotional, hope-filled, and a perfect reminder that joy can find you even when you’re still healing.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Luna, a positive type A personality, moves to Celestial Texas to get a restart. While renovating her old but precious farm house, she enlists the help of her farmer neighbors. As she integrates into this town, she starts to heal and learn more about herself. And what is a small town without a perfect cowboy?
This was such a perfect story! Each character was well written and had fully fleshed out back stories and motivations. Luna was complex and yet so relatable. And Tate could've been the broody cowboy with a complicated past, but he had so much heart and passion for helping others that also made him realistic.
I really enjoyed how the relationship developed as a part of Luna's character arc; as she was dealing with her grief and figuring out her identity and place in her new town, Tate was with her every step of the way. And it was nice that the backstories for all characters were a part of the story development rather than quick info dumping, it made each character that much stronger.
Tropes/themes: grumpy sunshine, small town, fresh start, slow burn, grief, family struggles.
This is my third Alexa Martin book, and I can't wait for whatever comes next
This was such a perfect story! Each character was well written and had fully fleshed out back stories and motivations. Luna was complex and yet so relatable. And Tate could've been the broody cowboy with a complicated past, but he had so much heart and passion for helping others that also made him realistic.
I really enjoyed how the relationship developed as a part of Luna's character arc; as she was dealing with her grief and figuring out her identity and place in her new town, Tate was with her every step of the way. And it was nice that the backstories for all characters were a part of the story development rather than quick info dumping, it made each character that much stronger.
Tropes/themes: grumpy sunshine, small town, fresh start, slow burn, grief, family struggles.
This is my third Alexa Martin book, and I can't wait for whatever comes next
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I’ve read quite a few books by Alexa Martin, and she rarely misses for me and this was no exception. Cowboy romances are really having a moment right now, and this one was such a fun addition to the genre.
Tate is an absolute sweetheart and such a great book boyfriend. I loved how supportive and caring he was, and he balanced Luna really well. Luna herself is messy, imperfect, and a little chaotic, but that’s exactly what made me like her. She felt like a real, flawed character instead of someone overly polished. She is one of my favorite FMCs because she feels like someone I would actually meet in real life and like and develop a friendship with.
The small town setting in Celestial had such a cozy vibe, and the side characters added a lot of charm to the story. It definitely had that classic small town romance feel with fun moments, wonderful townspeople, and plenty of love and sweetness that I enjoyed.
This was a really lovely read and a great addition to the genre. It is such a sweet cowboy romance with great characters and small town charm! 🤠
Thank you to NetGalley, Alexa Martin, and Berkley for the eARC of this book.
Tate is an absolute sweetheart and such a great book boyfriend. I loved how supportive and caring he was, and he balanced Luna really well. Luna herself is messy, imperfect, and a little chaotic, but that’s exactly what made me like her. She felt like a real, flawed character instead of someone overly polished. She is one of my favorite FMCs because she feels like someone I would actually meet in real life and like and develop a friendship with.
The small town setting in Celestial had such a cozy vibe, and the side characters added a lot of charm to the story. It definitely had that classic small town romance feel with fun moments, wonderful townspeople, and plenty of love and sweetness that I enjoyed.
This was a really lovely read and a great addition to the genre. It is such a sweet cowboy romance with great characters and small town charm! 🤠
Thank you to NetGalley, Alexa Martin, and Berkley for the eARC of this book.
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January 14, 2026Luna Starr llega a Celestial Texas cargando maletas, decisiones impulsivas y un duelo que todavía pesa más de lo que admite. Dejar atrás su antigua vida fue un salto al vacío, pero comprar una vieja granja y empezar desde cero parecía la única manera de volver a respirar. En un pueblo donde todos se conocen y las segundas oportunidades se sienten posibles, Luna intenta reconstruirse mientras aprende a convivir con el silencio, la soledad y la esperanza
Su primer contacto con la vida local la lleva a cruzarse con Tate, un hombre reservado, magnético y tan difícil de descifrar como el pasado que Luna intenta dejar atrás. Lo que comienza como un encuentro inesperado se convierte en una tensión constante que la obliga a cuestionarse si está lista para abrir su corazón otra vez o si solo está aprendiendo a sostenerse por sí misma en un lugar que promete mucho más de lo que parece.
Thanks to NetGalley, the publisher and the author for the ARC in exchange for an honest opinion.
Su primer contacto con la vida local la lleva a cruzarse con Tate, un hombre reservado, magnético y tan difícil de descifrar como el pasado que Luna intenta dejar atrás. Lo que comienza como un encuentro inesperado se convierte en una tensión constante que la obliga a cuestionarse si está lista para abrir su corazón otra vez o si solo está aprendiendo a sostenerse por sí misma en un lugar que promete mucho más de lo que parece.
Thanks to NetGalley, the publisher and the author for the ARC in exchange for an honest opinion.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
4.5 stars, rounded up
I love how Alexa Martin writes relatable female main characters who aren't ashamed to be basic and girly! Luna is no exception and I loved her!
The plot: Grieving and in need of a major change, Luna Starr moves to a farmhouse in small town Celestial, Texas. Luna is full of visions of living out a cowboy romance fantasy, but she runs into major renovation needs, gossiping townspeople, and a set of hot local brothers. One of these brothers is high school football coach and handyman Tate Jacobs, who can't help but assist with Luna's house repairs.
What I loved:
- a basic girly girl FMC (in the best way!)
- a bunch of teenage football players cheering on the main couple
- small town antics
- Friday Night Lights: small town TX high school football is no joke!
- a delicious grumpy/sunshine dynamic
tl;dr- This is the perfect small town cowboy romance! I LOVED Luna so much and Tate is the perfect match for her sunshine energy!
Thank you so much to Berkley Romance for the free ebook via NetGalley in exchange for my honest review!
I love how Alexa Martin writes relatable female main characters who aren't ashamed to be basic and girly! Luna is no exception and I loved her!
The plot: Grieving and in need of a major change, Luna Starr moves to a farmhouse in small town Celestial, Texas. Luna is full of visions of living out a cowboy romance fantasy, but she runs into major renovation needs, gossiping townspeople, and a set of hot local brothers. One of these brothers is high school football coach and handyman Tate Jacobs, who can't help but assist with Luna's house repairs.
What I loved:
- a basic girly girl FMC (in the best way!)
- a bunch of teenage football players cheering on the main couple
- small town antics
- Friday Night Lights: small town TX high school football is no joke!
- a delicious grumpy/sunshine dynamic
tl;dr- This is the perfect small town cowboy romance! I LOVED Luna so much and Tate is the perfect match for her sunshine energy!
Thank you so much to Berkley Romance for the free ebook via NetGalley in exchange for my honest review!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This isn’t just a romance; it's really Luna's epic tale of finding oneself amidst the rubble of grief and making the right choices sometimes for the wrong reasons. I, too, grew up in Colorado like the fmc (and author!) and this book was balm to my Southern-transplanted-Colorado soul; and I’ve been screaming in Alexa’s DMs at all hours feeling so sweetly nostalgic. I loved the way Alexa brought small town Texas to life combined the football and cowboy cultures, and how Luna's whimsy was so vibrant throughout the book. There are such spectacularly comforting moments as well as some definite surprises throughout the book that left me wanting more! If you are a girl's girl read this book. If you love a redemption arc (that's still a little messy because real families, even the good ones can be like that), read this book. If your soul just needs a place to be real and raw and whole, read this book. I loved the ultimate HEA and I only wish I could have had more of it.
I voluntarily read an early copy of this book and loved it!
I voluntarily read an early copy of this book and loved it!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
By the Bootstraps is a single POV small town romance. Luna is determined to liberate out her cowboy romance dreams, and outrun grief, by buying a house sight unseen in a tiny Texas town. She isn’t expecting to find the town so welcoming, or to run into the most attractive man she’s ever met her first night in town. Tate turns out to be the local high school football coach and, much to Luna’s relief, a part-time handyman. He’s just the msn she needs to help with her disaster of a house, and to convince her to put down roots in Texas!
This was my first Alexa Martin romance and I’m so glad she has a backlist for me to explore because I loved it! Luna’s character was written with so much humor and energy. Absolutely nothing like me but I still wish she was real and would sweep me up in her shenanigans! I loved Tate, how reserved he was and how much he was willing to share of himself with the ones he cared about. I loved the small town, friends, neighbors and found family. I thought the topics of grief, loss and addiction were handled well. I can’t wait to read more from this author!
This was my first Alexa Martin romance and I’m so glad she has a backlist for me to explore because I loved it! Luna’s character was written with so much humor and energy. Absolutely nothing like me but I still wish she was real and would sweep me up in her shenanigans! I loved Tate, how reserved he was and how much he was willing to share of himself with the ones he cared about. I loved the small town, friends, neighbors and found family. I thought the topics of grief, loss and addiction were handled well. I can’t wait to read more from this author!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Absolutely gorgeous romance! After loss, Luna Starr decides to leave her home and buy a small farm in Celestial, Texas. There, she meets Tate Jacobs, a handyman and head coach of the high school football team who also happens to be the heir to the massive ranch next to her property. Through a variety of chance occurrences and one falling bathtub, the two start to spend a lot of time together, and soon a romance is kindled. But will it survive?
The chemistry, first of all, was impeccable. I mean, Luna and Tate had massive chemistry from the moment they both appeared on the page. Also, they were both great characters, and felt fantastic. One thing I was surprised by, though, was the worldbuilding. Through aside lines and quick mentions, the author made Celestial feel really real, something that I did not expect but appreciated very much. 5 stars. Thanks to Berkley and Netgalley for the ARC.
The chemistry, first of all, was impeccable. I mean, Luna and Tate had massive chemistry from the moment they both appeared on the page. Also, they were both great characters, and felt fantastic. One thing I was surprised by, though, was the worldbuilding. Through aside lines and quick mentions, the author made Celestial feel really real, something that I did not expect but appreciated very much. 5 stars. Thanks to Berkley and Netgalley for the ARC.
April 19, 2026
By the Bootsraps was a fun small town, Black cowboy romance, that focuses on female friendships, found family, and manages grief while starting over somewhere new.
Luna and Tate are the embodiment of grumpy sunshine, and that trope always tickles me!
I live in a small town, not in Texas, but it’s still filled with cowboys and while Celestial is very much an idyllic fictional town, Alexa Martin captured the essence and very best parts of both cowboys and small towns (while leaving out the unsavory bits.) Neither are this whimsical or picture perfect in real life, but that’s what I read romance for!!
This is the second book I’ve read by Alexa Martin, and in both she did such a great job writing a place in such a way that I really felt transported there. By the Bootstraps is the perfect book to read on a roadtrip or girls trip or summer vacation sitting by the pool.
Thanks to Netgalley for the arc! All opinions are my own.
Luna and Tate are the embodiment of grumpy sunshine, and that trope always tickles me!
I live in a small town, not in Texas, but it’s still filled with cowboys and while Celestial is very much an idyllic fictional town, Alexa Martin captured the essence and very best parts of both cowboys and small towns (while leaving out the unsavory bits.) Neither are this whimsical or picture perfect in real life, but that’s what I read romance for!!
This is the second book I’ve read by Alexa Martin, and in both she did such a great job writing a place in such a way that I really felt transported there. By the Bootstraps is the perfect book to read on a roadtrip or girls trip or summer vacation sitting by the pool.
Thanks to Netgalley for the arc! All opinions are my own.
March 2, 2026
There is just something about an Alexa Martin book that always hits the spot...
I am so excited I got to journey to Celestial, TX for Luna and Tate's love story. I am all about the cowboy romances these days and this one is so well done!
Tate is top tier book boyfriend material and I loved watching his walls crumble around Luna. Luna is imperfect and at times, messy, which made her real. I loved the tension and mystery surrounding Tate and his family and what brought him back to town. And Friday night lights?!?!?! Say less!
There was a ton of great world building and I feel like I went to Celestial along with Luna. Not only did I fall in the love with the leads, but I also fell in love with all the side characters.
I really hope we get more books in this world, because I'm not ready to leave Starlight Ridge!
I am so excited I got to journey to Celestial, TX for Luna and Tate's love story. I am all about the cowboy romances these days and this one is so well done!
Tate is top tier book boyfriend material and I loved watching his walls crumble around Luna. Luna is imperfect and at times, messy, which made her real. I loved the tension and mystery surrounding Tate and his family and what brought him back to town. And Friday night lights?!?!?! Say less!
There was a ton of great world building and I feel like I went to Celestial along with Luna. Not only did I fall in the love with the leads, but I also fell in love with all the side characters.
I really hope we get more books in this world, because I'm not ready to leave Starlight Ridge!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thanks to Berkly for By the Bootstraps by Alexa Martin.
This book was so much fun! I love Alexa Martin and this book better be a new series! I love small town romances and Celestial, Texas was exactly what I needed.
Luna turns her cowpoy fantasy into reality and buys a farm in Texas that needs a lot of fixing up. Her grumpy handyman Tate hates cowboys, which is funny because his family owns the biggest ranch in the area, but he's also the football coach.
I loved seeing these two and their chemistry. I adored the Friday Night Lights vibe and everyone in the town. This is the perfect cowboy romance for someone who doesn't think they want a cowboy romance.
You need to pick this up in May!!
This book was so much fun! I love Alexa Martin and this book better be a new series! I love small town romances and Celestial, Texas was exactly what I needed.
Luna turns her cowpoy fantasy into reality and buys a farm in Texas that needs a lot of fixing up. Her grumpy handyman Tate hates cowboys, which is funny because his family owns the biggest ranch in the area, but he's also the football coach.
I loved seeing these two and their chemistry. I adored the Friday Night Lights vibe and everyone in the town. This is the perfect cowboy romance for someone who doesn't think they want a cowboy romance.
You need to pick this up in May!!
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
I loved this book. I loved the characters and the setting. I’m very excited for the rest of the series.
So why is it not 5 stars, I feel the blurb lead me to think this is going to be a romcom, and while there were funny parts, I would say this is more of a rom-dram. I cried a lot.
I would say this is similar to later seasons greys anatomy.
Lots of daily life, seriousness with some humor sprinkled in.
Don’t let that discourage you at all! You’re going to fall in love with the characters (except the one you’re gonna wanna throat punch)
Am I already trying to figure out who the next book will be about??? Yupppppp
So why is it not 5 stars, I feel the blurb lead me to think this is going to be a romcom, and while there were funny parts, I would say this is more of a rom-dram. I cried a lot.
I would say this is similar to later seasons greys anatomy.
Lots of daily life, seriousness with some humor sprinkled in.
Don’t let that discourage you at all! You’re going to fall in love with the characters (except the one you’re gonna wanna throat punch)
Am I already trying to figure out who the next book will be about??? Yupppppp
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
2.5/5 ☆
I received this as an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for review.
I finally had to DNF at 54% I just couldn’t get over the repetitive snide remarks about hating all men but then lusting over the hot football coach and depending on his assistance to repair her house. It misses the mark with me. I think I could have liked this story much more without the constant hate. I had taken a break from this author in the past because her other books had the same agenda, I was hoping this would be different…I admit this author is just not for me.
Thank you to NetGalley for the opportunity to review this book.
I received this as an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for review.
I finally had to DNF at 54% I just couldn’t get over the repetitive snide remarks about hating all men but then lusting over the hot football coach and depending on his assistance to repair her house. It misses the mark with me. I think I could have liked this story much more without the constant hate. I had taken a break from this author in the past because her other books had the same agenda, I was hoping this would be different…I admit this author is just not for me.
Thank you to NetGalley for the opportunity to review this book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
*ARC REVIEW* This was a sweet small-town, grumpy-sunshine romance following Luna, who moves there in search of a fresh start. As a Texas gal, reading about horseback riding, football games, and town festivals made it feel like home. It balanced laughable moments with emotional ones, and the found-family vibe plus the town looking out for each other really tugged at my heart. The spice was low (about a 1 for me), and I wasn’t a fan of how the FMC handled one situation, but overall it was still an enjoyable read.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
By the Bootstraps by Alexa Martin was such a cute, heartwarming read. The story had that perfect balance of romance, emotional growth, and lighthearted moments that made it easy to sink into. I really enjoyed watching the characters navigate their challenges while still keeping the tone fun and hopeful.
The chemistry felt genuine, and the romance had just the right amount of sweetness without being over-the-top. If you’re looking for a feel-good contemporary romance with heart, this one is definitely worth picking up.
Thank you to Berkeley Publishing for the opportunity to read this book!
The chemistry felt genuine, and the romance had just the right amount of sweetness without being over-the-top. If you’re looking for a feel-good contemporary romance with heart, this one is definitely worth picking up.
Thank you to Berkeley Publishing for the opportunity to read this book!
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March 18, 2026Made it 58%, but I think this book is a bit too Millennial Branded for me. Don't get me wrong: parts of it were charming & I didn't mind Luna or Tate most of the time. It's just the everyone is so flawlessly beautiful & wonderful & every expression is hugely exaggerated & the jokes are treated as massively hilarious when they're very flat thing got old fast & the things I enjoyed about the main couple were overshadowed.
I do think it's a me thing. I knew this was a romance with a football coach, but at the first game part I kept rolling my eyes. Not interested after all.
I do think it's a me thing. I knew this was a romance with a football coach, but at the first game part I kept rolling my eyes. Not interested after all.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 22, 2026
Escape with Luna Starr to the small town of Celestial, Texas-- she's got big plans for her new house that needs a lot more renovations than she bargained for... Fortunately, there's a very hot handyman that, despite his quiet and grumpy demeanor, she can't help but be drawn to. By the Bootstraps is a very cute, fun, and witty romance that also focuses on processing complicated grief in a really nuanced way. Alexa Martin is one of my favorite romance authors, and I can't wait to read more from this new series!
March 23, 2026
I usually really enjoy Alexa’s books, and I was really excited for this one, since it’s a cowboy romance! For some reason.. this one felt a bit slow to me. Just a bit dragged on and boring in parts, and it felt a bit cheesy enough to make me not feel fully invested.
I did love the representation of people of color in Texas (it’s needed! Cowboys aren’t just white!) and I loved the quirkiness of Luna.
Not my favorite of Alexa’s, but still an overall cute and easy romance!
Thank you to netgalley for the arc!
I did love the representation of people of color in Texas (it’s needed! Cowboys aren’t just white!) and I loved the quirkiness of Luna.
Not my favorite of Alexa’s, but still an overall cute and easy romance!
Thank you to netgalley for the arc!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This is my first time reading a book written by Alexa Martin and I thoroughly enjoyed it. I love a good small-town read. I felt like I could have been watching this on my TV screen. But I'm sorry it's the Cowboys for me! Love ittt. There was a found family-like feel throughout this read. Luna was never not “at home”. I did feel like the love story wasn't the main focus. Luna’s journey in Celestial was more of the focus. I would have loved for their grumpy/sunshine dynamic to be at the forefront. Overall, I enjoyed this read. It was very fun and cozy.
Thank you NetGalley and Berkeley!
Thank you NetGalley and Berkeley!
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