By the Bootstraps

by Alexa Martin

“Alexa Martin has crafted a cowboy romance keeper!”—Lyla Sage, #1 New York Times bestselling author

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.

Kindle Edition

Expected publication May 26, 2026

About the author

Alexa Martin is the author of GIRL WONDER, a novel for young adults. She holds an MFA in Writing and Literature from the Bennington Writing Seminars. She lives near Seattle and complains about the weather a lot although she secretly likes the rain (don’t tell!) For fun and torture she runs long distances on muddy mountain trails. Over the years she’s worked a lot of random jobs in trying to keep the writing dream alive, such as the time she worked in a steakhouse even though she’s a vegetarian. Initially GIRL WONDER was about a story about a horse, which just goes to show you that art is what happens when you are making other plans.

Reviews

[Preet · Rating 5 out of 5]

Alexa Martin's BY THE BOOTSTRAPS hits all the notes in this fish out of water romance. It's funny, sexy, and so fun. The story also has deep emotional depth and I found myself in tears at times.

I will admit I didn't know who I wanted Luna to be with. Both Silas and Tate are grade A men. But Tate can get it! A man who is a mystery in the streets but dirty in sheets?! YES PLEASE! The slow burn is so worth it.

I love knowing this is the first in a series. I can't wait to revisit Starlight Ridge! BY THE BOOTSTRAPS is another gem from Alexa Martin. Don't miss this one!

[Natasha Glasco · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed this romance story between Tate and. Luna Starr. They were so cute together! Grumpy sunshine gives me all the feels. I love a small town romance! This story had me giggling and had me feeling all the emotions while reading. This was my first Alexa Martin book and it did not disappoint. I am also excited I had the opportunity to read this ARC before its release date! Trigger warnings: loss of a parent(s)