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Happy, Texas #3
Luckiest Cowboy of All / Hometown Cowboy
TWO FULL NOVELS FOR THE PRICE OF ONE! AN ALL-NEW CAROLYN BROWN BOOK, PLUS HOMETOWN COWBOY BY SARA RICHARDSON
A secret baby brings a second chance for love.
Carlene Varner's homecoming isn't exactly going according to plan. She thought she'd have some time to adjust before introducing her daughter to Jace Dawson, the father her little girl has never known. Instead, within days of her arrival, her house burns down and she and Tilly have no choice but to move in with the sexy cowboy himself at the Prairie Rose ranch. Now the whole Dawson clan-heck, the whole town of Happy-is all up in their business.
Jace has dealt with stubborn bulls and bucking broncos-but being a dad? He is so not ready for this... Yet the more time he spends with Carlene and little Tilly, the harder it is to imagine life without them. Now he just has to convince Carlene that he's the real deal-and hope that this time she's here to stay.
Hometown Cowboy by Sara Richardson
Outrageously handsome Lance Cortez is practically a living legend in Colorado, as famous for riding bulls as he is for breaking hearts. What would a big-time cowboy star like him see in a small-town veterinarian who wears glasses, rescues animals, and cries when watching rom-coms? Turns out, plenty.
For fans of Debbie Macomber or Lori Wilde, these cowboy romances deliver a heartwarming read full of feels.
A secret baby brings a second chance for love.
Carlene Varner's homecoming isn't exactly going according to plan. She thought she'd have some time to adjust before introducing her daughter to Jace Dawson, the father her little girl has never known. Instead, within days of her arrival, her house burns down and she and Tilly have no choice but to move in with the sexy cowboy himself at the Prairie Rose ranch. Now the whole Dawson clan-heck, the whole town of Happy-is all up in their business.
Jace has dealt with stubborn bulls and bucking broncos-but being a dad? He is so not ready for this... Yet the more time he spends with Carlene and little Tilly, the harder it is to imagine life without them. Now he just has to convince Carlene that he's the real deal-and hope that this time she's here to stay.
Hometown Cowboy by Sara Richardson
Outrageously handsome Lance Cortez is practically a living legend in Colorado, as famous for riding bulls as he is for breaking hearts. What would a big-time cowboy star like him see in a small-town veterinarian who wears glasses, rescues animals, and cries when watching rom-coms? Turns out, plenty.
For fans of Debbie Macomber or Lori Wilde, these cowboy romances deliver a heartwarming read full of feels.
316 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published January 30, 2018
577 people are currently reading
1207 people want to read
About the author
Carolyn Brown
181 books4,114 followersHi! I'm twenty five years old and movie star gorgeous. The camera added thirty plus years and a few wrinkles. Can't trust those cameras or mirrors either. Along with bathroom scales they are notorious liars! Honestly, I am the mother of three fantastic grown children who've made me laugh and given me more story ideas than I could ever write. My husband, Charles, is my strongest supporter and my best friend. He's even willing to eat fast food and help with the laundry while I finish one more chapter! Life is good and I am blessed!
Reading has been a passion since I was five years old and figured out those were words on book pages. As soon as my chubby little fingers found they could put words on a Big Chief tablet with a fat pencil, I was on my way. Writing joined reading in my list of passions. I will read anything from the back of the Cheerio's box to Faulkner and love every bit of it. In addition to reading I enjoy cooking, my family and the ocean. I love the Florida beaches. Listening to the ocean waves puts my writing brain into high gear.
I love writing romance because it's about emotions and relationships. Human nature hasn't changed a bit since Eve coveted the fruit in the Garden of Eden. Settings change. Plots change. Names change. Times change. But love is love and men and women have been falling in and out of it forever. Romance is about emotions: love, hate, anger, laughter... all of it. If I can make you laugh until your sides ache or grab a tissue then I've touched your emotions and accomplished what every writer sets out to do.
I got serious about writing when my third child was born and had her days and nights mixed up. I had to stay up all night anyway and it was very quiet so I invested in a spiral back notebook and sharpened a few pencils. The story that emerged has never sold but it's brought in enough rejection slips to put the Redwood Forest on the endangered list. In 1997 Kensington bought two books for their Precious Gems line. Two years and six books later the line died with only four of those books seeing publication. But by then Avalon had bought a book and another, and another. Ten years later the list has grown to thirty nine. Last year Sourcebooks bought the Lucky Series which is in the bookstores now. They've also bought The Honky Tonk Series which will debut with I LOVE THIS BAR in June and will be followed by HELL, YEAH, MY GIVE A DAMN'S BUSTED, and HONKY TONK CHRISTMAS.
Folks ask me where I get my ideas. Three kids, fifteen grandchildren, two great grandchildren. Note: I was a very young grandmother! Life is a zoo around here when they all come home. In one Sunday afternoon there's enough ideas to keep me writing for years and years. Seriously, ideas pop up at the craziest times. When one sinks its roots into my mind, I have no choice but to write the story. And while I'm writing the characters peek over my shoulder and make sure I'm telling it right and not exaggerating too much. Pesky little devils, they are!
I have a wonderful agent, Erin Niumata, who continues to work magic and sell my work. I'm very lucky to have her and my editors who continue to believe in me.
Happy reading!
Reading has been a passion since I was five years old and figured out those were words on book pages. As soon as my chubby little fingers found they could put words on a Big Chief tablet with a fat pencil, I was on my way. Writing joined reading in my list of passions. I will read anything from the back of the Cheerio's box to Faulkner and love every bit of it. In addition to reading I enjoy cooking, my family and the ocean. I love the Florida beaches. Listening to the ocean waves puts my writing brain into high gear.
I love writing romance because it's about emotions and relationships. Human nature hasn't changed a bit since Eve coveted the fruit in the Garden of Eden. Settings change. Plots change. Names change. Times change. But love is love and men and women have been falling in and out of it forever. Romance is about emotions: love, hate, anger, laughter... all of it. If I can make you laugh until your sides ache or grab a tissue then I've touched your emotions and accomplished what every writer sets out to do.
I got serious about writing when my third child was born and had her days and nights mixed up. I had to stay up all night anyway and it was very quiet so I invested in a spiral back notebook and sharpened a few pencils. The story that emerged has never sold but it's brought in enough rejection slips to put the Redwood Forest on the endangered list. In 1997 Kensington bought two books for their Precious Gems line. Two years and six books later the line died with only four of those books seeing publication. But by then Avalon had bought a book and another, and another. Ten years later the list has grown to thirty nine. Last year Sourcebooks bought the Lucky Series which is in the bookstores now. They've also bought The Honky Tonk Series which will debut with I LOVE THIS BAR in June and will be followed by HELL, YEAH, MY GIVE A DAMN'S BUSTED, and HONKY TONK CHRISTMAS.
Folks ask me where I get my ideas. Three kids, fifteen grandchildren, two great grandchildren. Note: I was a very young grandmother! Life is a zoo around here when they all come home. In one Sunday afternoon there's enough ideas to keep me writing for years and years. Seriously, ideas pop up at the craziest times. When one sinks its roots into my mind, I have no choice but to write the story. And while I'm writing the characters peek over my shoulder and make sure I'm telling it right and not exaggerating too much. Pesky little devils, they are!
I have a wonderful agent, Erin Niumata, who continues to work magic and sell my work. I'm very lucky to have her and my editors who continue to believe in me.
Happy reading!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 86 reviews
February 24, 2018
Loved Jace Dawson and the Dawson clan, but Carlene was another story. I just couldn’t get past the fact that didn’t tell Jace about Tilly for nine years! Her reasons for why she did it weren’t good enough for me. She deprived Jace of seeing his child grow up and she wasn’t really sorry about it. I think Jace was very forgiving in view of the situation.
Normally, I love Carolyn Brown's cowboy romances, but Carlene's actions really impacted my enjoyment.
A copy was kindly provided by Forever via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
Normally, I love Carolyn Brown's cowboy romances, but Carlene's actions really impacted my enjoyment.
A copy was kindly provided by Forever via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
January 1, 2018
Reviewed for herding cats & burning soup. (review will be live 2/6/18)
Amazon: http://amzn.to/2Crdss6
Luckiest Cowboy of All my ample white ass! This book made me so mad!
The Gist: Charlene's decided she needs roots and it's time to head back home 9 years after she packed up her bags and fled. Those 9 years? Well she's been hiding her daughter from the baby daddy. Now she's just hoping maybe he won't realize he's the daddy until she's ready to tell him. Ugh!
First. I loved Jace. He's a stand up guy down to his well worn in cowboy boots. Hard working, caring, there for his family. He's got that cowboy swagger. Rides bulls, saves cows, tends to kittens. I adored his character. He's just an amazing guy.
Charlene, though? I was really hoping a horse would fall on her and crush her selfish bitch ass. It's a ranch. It could happen! Then Jace could raise his daughter and find a decent woman to spend forever with. I had absolutely no respect for Charlene. She had no regrets for hiding her daughter. Never once apologized. Never got down on her knees and begged forgiveness for robbing both Jace and their daughter of so many years. I loathed this woman who after 200+ pages was still contemplating moving to another country so she wouldn't have to "share her daughter" with Jace and his family. And she had absolutely no good reason for leaving in the first place. They were in love, he wanted forever with her and she just decided on her own to leave town, cut off all communication, forbid anyone who knew from telling him because...he was too young to be a dad and she didn't want to ruin his life.
I was so disappointed for Jace. And for his little girl. They both deserve better. The romance was lackluster, too. They had absolutely no chemistry even if it was pointed out nearly every time they were next to each other that the sparks were flying. That never actually came across the page. And the sex scenes were near closed doors.
So, yes. Jace was awesome. The little girl...not bad. The kitten totally cute. The rest...not worth it at all. This was not at all what I expect from a Carolyn Brown book. It was like reading a completely different author.
My only hope is this is a starter marriage and at some point down the line a horse will actually come through and he'll end up a widowed hero and another romance will happen featuring him as a single daddy nursing a broken heart and a real cowgirl with a good heart will help him find an actual happily ever after.
*growl*
August 10, 2019
Book 1: 2.5 Dreary Stars
Finding herself pregnant at 18 Carlene Varner doesn’t tell the boy she loves (Jace Dawson) and who loves her, so when she returns years later with a daughter that looks startlingly like his sister and has his eyes, well, he is in for a big shock. This was an ok-ish read, but not one that I will be picking up again. My main issue was with the heroine Carlene, her thoughts and behaviour were a rad off putting and by the end I felt the hero and daughter deserved a better heroine.
There's a bit of a secondary romance (second chance romance) taking place between
Book 2: 2 Bored Stars
I was really hoping that this second book would be leaps and bounds better than book one, however for some reason no matter how hard I tried I just couldn't find myself able to truly engage with the plot or the main characters and the development of their relationship. it's peculiar, initially I thought my apathy today's story with because I was so tired and yet unable to sleep, but the other books I was reading alongside this one had me engaged and keen to read more.
For some reason the main characters and picked and depictions of them we're just dry, I have read books with similar plots and enjoyed them but this time the book was just a big dud. Skim read the last 3 chapters.
Potential Triggers:
Finding herself pregnant at 18 Carlene Varner doesn’t tell the boy she loves (Jace Dawson) and who loves her, so when she returns years later with a daughter that looks startlingly like his sister and has his eyes, well, he is in for a big shock. This was an ok-ish read, but not one that I will be picking up again. My main issue was with the heroine Carlene, her thoughts and behaviour were a rad off putting and by the end I felt the hero and daughter deserved a better heroine.
There's a bit of a secondary romance (second chance romance) taking place between
Book 2: 2 Bored Stars
I was really hoping that this second book would be leaps and bounds better than book one, however for some reason no matter how hard I tried I just couldn't find myself able to truly engage with the plot or the main characters and the development of their relationship. it's peculiar, initially I thought my apathy today's story with because I was so tired and yet unable to sleep, but the other books I was reading alongside this one had me engaged and keen to read more.
For some reason the main characters and picked and depictions of them we're just dry, I have read books with similar plots and enjoyed them but this time the book was just a big dud. Skim read the last 3 chapters.
Potential Triggers:
February 4, 2018
3.5
Carlene inherited her aunt's house in Happy, Texas and with a new job as a fifth grade teacher, she's ready to give roots to her eight-years-old daughter Tilly. The trouble is her aunt Rosalie had already sold the house to Jace Dawson last year and the land is promised to the rodeo association for demolition. But that's not the only problem. Carlene and Jace dated in their senior years. He thought it was love, but she thought it was lust. So when she ended up pregnant and her parents relocated to Florida, she never said a word to him about it even if they stayed in touch for a little while and then she stopped giving news completely. It takes one look at Carlene's daughter for Jace to do the math and realize who's the father.
Like most people, I'm really not a fan of the whole "I never told the hero we had a child together" trope. It bothers me. But when I already knows it from the back cover and it doesn't come as a surprise, it's usually easier for me to accept it. And also when there's not too many ressentment and bitterness between the protagonists because of it, even if I totally understand why the guy would be pissed. Having said that, I still think everyone accepted too easily the fact that Carlene stole him from almost a decade of his child's life. It's totally justified in case of violence, abuse and the like but thinking the man was not ready to be a father figure at the time is not an excuse and I couldn't help but find it totally selfish. That's probably why, even if I had a great time reading this book, I didn't loved it like I usually do with this author's books and I don't think it was her most believable romance either. What was believable was the way that Jace and Tilly needed time to get used to each other and being related. And the sweetness and the funny was still there too. Jace is a patient and sexy cowboy :p
And will I be there and cheering for the next Carolyn Brown's book, you can bet on it !
Carlene inherited her aunt's house in Happy, Texas and with a new job as a fifth grade teacher, she's ready to give roots to her eight-years-old daughter Tilly. The trouble is her aunt Rosalie had already sold the house to Jace Dawson last year and the land is promised to the rodeo association for demolition. But that's not the only problem. Carlene and Jace dated in their senior years. He thought it was love, but she thought it was lust. So when she ended up pregnant and her parents relocated to Florida, she never said a word to him about it even if they stayed in touch for a little while and then she stopped giving news completely. It takes one look at Carlene's daughter for Jace to do the math and realize who's the father.
Like most people, I'm really not a fan of the whole "I never told the hero we had a child together" trope. It bothers me. But when I already knows it from the back cover and it doesn't come as a surprise, it's usually easier for me to accept it. And also when there's not too many ressentment and bitterness between the protagonists because of it, even if I totally understand why the guy would be pissed. Having said that, I still think everyone accepted too easily the fact that Carlene stole him from almost a decade of his child's life. It's totally justified in case of violence, abuse and the like but thinking the man was not ready to be a father figure at the time is not an excuse and I couldn't help but find it totally selfish. That's probably why, even if I had a great time reading this book, I didn't loved it like I usually do with this author's books and I don't think it was her most believable romance either. What was believable was the way that Jace and Tilly needed time to get used to each other and being related. And the sweetness and the funny was still there too. Jace is a patient and sexy cowboy :p
And will I be there and cheering for the next Carolyn Brown's book, you can bet on it !
June 19, 2018
I think this is the first time I've dnf a book because I want the hero to move on and find someone better. The heroine in this book is the worst I have ever read. There is no excuse for her behavior and she's a selfish bitch. I hate her.
January 30, 2018
Received in exchange for a honest review.
I think this is my favorite of the three books I have read taking place in Happy, Texas. Why? First we get two romances in the Dawson clan and second this one is more of a journey. We don’t get alot of angst, we don’t get characters we don’t like either. We get a sweet and wonderful second chance romance where the character grow and mature but where they realize that in order for this to happen and see that they belonged together the time apart was needed.
Jace is a sweet and just gorgeous and kind man. He now runs Prairie Rose and dotes on his nieces and nephews. he is an all around good guy. So when the girl who broke his heart came back into town he was there to welcome her and show there were no hard feelings.I think he even wanted to see if he still had strong feelings and chemistry for her. What he didn’t expect was to find that she had kept something from her and is being more stubborn and selfish about it as well..
Carlene knew when she came back to Happy her secret would come out, she just hadn’t expected it to be so hard to let go of all the responsibility of Tilly. She was messed up by her dad and was afraid to let Jace into his daughter’s life. And she had a hard time letting others in as well. It wasn’t that she didn’t want that for her daughter it was that she was scared for her daughter. She also didn’t know how to deal with Jace. Overall Carlene is a great and loving mom. She also is a good person just afraid of her daughter getting hurt.
When Jace finds how we see him go through a myriad of emotions. Emotions that are very real and honest. He is confused and trying to figure out where he stands. Even with messed up emotions, he is kind and honest. He realizes he still has feelings for Carlene and their chemistry sizzles. He sees that time didn’t change his feelings only enhanced them. He also slowly gets to know his daughter. He sees who she is and sees that he wants to be a daddy and not a father. Jace is a smart guy, he knows that the past cannot be recreated but a future can and does this slowly with Carlene. He needs to show her that they are real and not feelings of obligation. He works on getting her to give them a chance all the while getting to know his daughter and get her comfortable with him. Their time together is intimate and real. We see them talk, work together and find their way with the support of each other.
At the same time Jace and Carlene’s journey is occurring, Hope is on one as well. She is struggling with her feelings for Henry and her own past. Her and Carlene help each other ins seeing the past is the past and one must take a chance on the present and future and leap into trusting their feelings and those who say they love them as well.
The story is sweet and charming. Tilly will capture your heart and have you smile at her way with Jace. Seeing those two go from friends to daddy daughter is adorable and honest. It doesn’t happen overnight and it does take time as this book shows us. So does getting those to process feelings and risk a second chance on love. The characters are fun and sweet. None act horribly or throw fits, they all learn and grow but show us what family and love is. We see Jace and Carly grow as adults and a couple as they figure out where they belong and become a family. A wonderfully written and sweet second chance romance where family is important and love shines as our main characters grow and reignite their love for one another and have a HEA.
I think this is my favorite of the three books I have read taking place in Happy, Texas. Why? First we get two romances in the Dawson clan and second this one is more of a journey. We don’t get alot of angst, we don’t get characters we don’t like either. We get a sweet and wonderful second chance romance where the character grow and mature but where they realize that in order for this to happen and see that they belonged together the time apart was needed.
Jace is a sweet and just gorgeous and kind man. He now runs Prairie Rose and dotes on his nieces and nephews. he is an all around good guy. So when the girl who broke his heart came back into town he was there to welcome her and show there were no hard feelings.I think he even wanted to see if he still had strong feelings and chemistry for her. What he didn’t expect was to find that she had kept something from her and is being more stubborn and selfish about it as well..
Carlene knew when she came back to Happy her secret would come out, she just hadn’t expected it to be so hard to let go of all the responsibility of Tilly. She was messed up by her dad and was afraid to let Jace into his daughter’s life. And she had a hard time letting others in as well. It wasn’t that she didn’t want that for her daughter it was that she was scared for her daughter. She also didn’t know how to deal with Jace. Overall Carlene is a great and loving mom. She also is a good person just afraid of her daughter getting hurt.
When Jace finds how we see him go through a myriad of emotions. Emotions that are very real and honest. He is confused and trying to figure out where he stands. Even with messed up emotions, he is kind and honest. He realizes he still has feelings for Carlene and their chemistry sizzles. He sees that time didn’t change his feelings only enhanced them. He also slowly gets to know his daughter. He sees who she is and sees that he wants to be a daddy and not a father. Jace is a smart guy, he knows that the past cannot be recreated but a future can and does this slowly with Carlene. He needs to show her that they are real and not feelings of obligation. He works on getting her to give them a chance all the while getting to know his daughter and get her comfortable with him. Their time together is intimate and real. We see them talk, work together and find their way with the support of each other.
At the same time Jace and Carlene’s journey is occurring, Hope is on one as well. She is struggling with her feelings for Henry and her own past. Her and Carlene help each other ins seeing the past is the past and one must take a chance on the present and future and leap into trusting their feelings and those who say they love them as well.
The story is sweet and charming. Tilly will capture your heart and have you smile at her way with Jace. Seeing those two go from friends to daddy daughter is adorable and honest. It doesn’t happen overnight and it does take time as this book shows us. So does getting those to process feelings and risk a second chance on love. The characters are fun and sweet. None act horribly or throw fits, they all learn and grow but show us what family and love is. We see Jace and Carly grow as adults and a couple as they figure out where they belong and become a family. A wonderfully written and sweet second chance romance where family is important and love shines as our main characters grow and reignite their love for one another and have a HEA.
January 25, 2018
Four and a half stars: A charming second chance love story that will steal your heart.
Jace Dawson has watched both his brother and sister find love, but he doubts it is in the cards for him. Jace hasn’t gotten over the girl who stole his heart when he was in high school, and then left town without further contact. Nine years later, Carlene is coming back to Happy, Texas to teach school. Jace wonders how he will feel when sees her again. He soon gets his answer, when he decides to pay Carlene a visit. He gets the shock of his life when he comes face to face with a red haired little girl with his eyes. How on earth is Jace going to handle being a daddy? He has no idea. Perhaps spending eight seconds on a bucking bull would be easier?
What I Liked:
*Luckiest Cowboy of All is the third book in the Happy, Texas series, and I have to say it is the sweetest and most charming of the three. I loved this second chance story. It is full of heart, hope and it features all the characters I have grown to love. If you are a fan of second chance romances, this is one not to be missed.
*This one is all about Jace and Carlene, and Hope and Henry. If you read the previous books in the series, you are familiar with Jace, the youngest of the Dawson clan. Jace is a fantastic uncle and brother. I was thrilled to finally get his story, and it didn’t disappoint. Jace is probably my favorite of the Dawson siblings. He is kind, caring, funny and he has a huge heart. Carlene is the perfect match for Jace. She is sweet, determined and not afraid to follow her heart. Together they are electric.
Tilly steals the show. Tilly is a spunky, precocious nine year who isn’t afraid to speak her mind. I got a kick out of this girl. I have to admit, that sometimes kids in books aren’t my favorite because authors fail to get them right and they don’t feel authentic. That is not the case with Tilly or any of the other kids in this series. I adored the children in this series. They are too cute and funny.
*The story is all about the second chance romance. You get a double dose with Jace and Carlene’s romance and then a bonus relationship with Hope, Jace’s grandma, and her long lost love, Henry. I enjoyed watching Jace and Carlene reconnect and find a way to make a family. There is plenty of heat and chemistry between the two. I was enchanted by Hope and Henry. At seventy, Hope is widowed and alone. She gets the shock of her life when Henry, her long lost love, rolls back into town. Sparks fly, and a romance sizzles. I loved seeing these two finally follow their hearts after so many years. I also enjoyed seeing Carlene and Hope sharing their heart’s secrets. Both romances were charming.
*This book is down home comfort. It features wonderful characters, fantastic romances, cute kids and animals, and lots of feels. I liked that there isn’t drama or angst. It is just a simple, sweet read. Perfect for winter reading.
*The ending is bittersweet. I loved catching up with all of the characters from the series one year down the road. Lots of big, happy changes for everyone. It was wonderful, but then I was sad at the thought of this series coming to an end as it has been one of my favorite series from Carolyn Brown to date.
And The Not So Much:
*I loved Henry and Hope’s story, but I found that I wanted more of Henry’s point of view. How did he feel about Hope all of those years?
*I struggled just a tiny bit with Carlene’s reasons for not contacting Jace sooner. Why was she so darn afraid to let him know he had a daughter? Not a big issue, just a niggle I had.
Luckiest Cowboy of All is the perfect ending to a sweet and satisfying series. I loved that this book featured two second chance romances. If you want a comfort read with terrific characters, adorable kids and animals and charming second chance romances, look no further. This book is what you need to beat those pesky winter blues! Loved it!
I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own, and I was not compensated for this review.
Posted@Rainy Day Ramblings.
Jace Dawson has watched both his brother and sister find love, but he doubts it is in the cards for him. Jace hasn’t gotten over the girl who stole his heart when he was in high school, and then left town without further contact. Nine years later, Carlene is coming back to Happy, Texas to teach school. Jace wonders how he will feel when sees her again. He soon gets his answer, when he decides to pay Carlene a visit. He gets the shock of his life when he comes face to face with a red haired little girl with his eyes. How on earth is Jace going to handle being a daddy? He has no idea. Perhaps spending eight seconds on a bucking bull would be easier?
What I Liked:
*Luckiest Cowboy of All is the third book in the Happy, Texas series, and I have to say it is the sweetest and most charming of the three. I loved this second chance story. It is full of heart, hope and it features all the characters I have grown to love. If you are a fan of second chance romances, this is one not to be missed.
*This one is all about Jace and Carlene, and Hope and Henry. If you read the previous books in the series, you are familiar with Jace, the youngest of the Dawson clan. Jace is a fantastic uncle and brother. I was thrilled to finally get his story, and it didn’t disappoint. Jace is probably my favorite of the Dawson siblings. He is kind, caring, funny and he has a huge heart. Carlene is the perfect match for Jace. She is sweet, determined and not afraid to follow her heart. Together they are electric.
Tilly steals the show. Tilly is a spunky, precocious nine year who isn’t afraid to speak her mind. I got a kick out of this girl. I have to admit, that sometimes kids in books aren’t my favorite because authors fail to get them right and they don’t feel authentic. That is not the case with Tilly or any of the other kids in this series. I adored the children in this series. They are too cute and funny.
*The story is all about the second chance romance. You get a double dose with Jace and Carlene’s romance and then a bonus relationship with Hope, Jace’s grandma, and her long lost love, Henry. I enjoyed watching Jace and Carlene reconnect and find a way to make a family. There is plenty of heat and chemistry between the two. I was enchanted by Hope and Henry. At seventy, Hope is widowed and alone. She gets the shock of her life when Henry, her long lost love, rolls back into town. Sparks fly, and a romance sizzles. I loved seeing these two finally follow their hearts after so many years. I also enjoyed seeing Carlene and Hope sharing their heart’s secrets. Both romances were charming.
*This book is down home comfort. It features wonderful characters, fantastic romances, cute kids and animals, and lots of feels. I liked that there isn’t drama or angst. It is just a simple, sweet read. Perfect for winter reading.
*The ending is bittersweet. I loved catching up with all of the characters from the series one year down the road. Lots of big, happy changes for everyone. It was wonderful, but then I was sad at the thought of this series coming to an end as it has been one of my favorite series from Carolyn Brown to date.
And The Not So Much:
*I loved Henry and Hope’s story, but I found that I wanted more of Henry’s point of view. How did he feel about Hope all of those years?
*I struggled just a tiny bit with Carlene’s reasons for not contacting Jace sooner. Why was she so darn afraid to let him know he had a daughter? Not a big issue, just a niggle I had.
Luckiest Cowboy of All is the perfect ending to a sweet and satisfying series. I loved that this book featured two second chance romances. If you want a comfort read with terrific characters, adorable kids and animals and charming second chance romances, look no further. This book is what you need to beat those pesky winter blues! Loved it!
I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own, and I was not compensated for this review.
Posted@Rainy Day Ramblings.
August 2, 2020
Only reviewing "Luckiest Cowboy of All" right now since I haven't begun the other author's book.
The trope I hate more than anything is the secret baby trope. Unless the child/mother would be in danger should someone find out about the baby, then there is 100% no reason why a mother should keep that child a secret from the father. And for a mother to do it for 9 years because she didn't want to 'ruin his life' back when they were 18 was an absolute crap excuse. And then she actually considers moving to Germany in part of this book with her daughter and I'm thinking 'In what world with a judge allow you to do that when it's not in the best interest of the child?' In another part she gets upset with Jace briefly for letting Tilly do something without first getting her permission. Um, hello, he's her father, he doesn't have to ask you. I'm sorry, but I can't overlook something like that and because of that, I pretty much hated and judged Carlene the entire book.
Even though Carlene did something that should have resulted in Jace strongly disliking or resenting her Jace just kind of took it all in stride. He was upset at first, but it was also obvious that he wasn't even ready to be an instant father like I kind of expected, so for him, he didn't make the huge deal of the secret kid like I'd have expected. But Jace did eventually get it together and he turned into just the sweetest daddy to Tilly. I loved seeing his interactions with her.
Tilly was a bit of a brat at first in my opinion. When she meets Jace she immediately tells him she won't call him daddy but will still be his friend and they'll go from there. I mean I wouldn't expect a 9 year old to flat out say that. Think it, sure, but not say it to his face. But knowing how Tilly was throughout this story, she honestly spoke her mind more often than not. She won me over in the end and the part where she first calls him daddy after he gets injured really made me love the spunky little girl. She fit right in with little Emma.
This time Valerie wasn't an issue at all like she was in the previous 2 books. She was way too judgmental and overbearing with her first two kids, but she was nothing but welcoming in this book. And Hope...well I just loved having her and Henry's story intertwined in this one.
The epilogue was awesome. I loved how everyone we've met in previous books had a page dedicated to their little families.
The trope I hate more than anything is the secret baby trope. Unless the child/mother would be in danger should someone find out about the baby, then there is 100% no reason why a mother should keep that child a secret from the father. And for a mother to do it for 9 years because she didn't want to 'ruin his life' back when they were 18 was an absolute crap excuse. And then she actually considers moving to Germany in part of this book with her daughter and I'm thinking 'In what world with a judge allow you to do that when it's not in the best interest of the child?' In another part she gets upset with Jace briefly for letting Tilly do something without first getting her permission. Um, hello, he's her father, he doesn't have to ask you. I'm sorry, but I can't overlook something like that and because of that, I pretty much hated and judged Carlene the entire book.
Even though Carlene did something that should have resulted in Jace strongly disliking or resenting her Jace just kind of took it all in stride. He was upset at first, but it was also obvious that he wasn't even ready to be an instant father like I kind of expected, so for him, he didn't make the huge deal of the secret kid like I'd have expected. But Jace did eventually get it together and he turned into just the sweetest daddy to Tilly. I loved seeing his interactions with her.
Tilly was a bit of a brat at first in my opinion. When she meets Jace she immediately tells him she won't call him daddy but will still be his friend and they'll go from there. I mean I wouldn't expect a 9 year old to flat out say that. Think it, sure, but not say it to his face. But knowing how Tilly was throughout this story, she honestly spoke her mind more often than not. She won me over in the end and the part where she first calls him daddy after he gets injured really made me love the spunky little girl. She fit right in with little Emma.
This time Valerie wasn't an issue at all like she was in the previous 2 books. She was way too judgmental and overbearing with her first two kids, but she was nothing but welcoming in this book. And Hope...well I just loved having her and Henry's story intertwined in this one.
The epilogue was awesome. I loved how everyone we've met in previous books had a page dedicated to their little families.
January 31, 2018
Jace Dawson is all shook up. The one that got away returns with a surprise he hadn't saw coming that packs a punch he won't soon forget. Luckiest Cowboy Of All is the latest in the endearing Happy, Texas series. This time around it's Jace who receives a TKO to the heart in this sunny and funny heart eclipsing read. Young love turned into adult heartbreak when Carlene Varner walked out of his life. Fast forward ten years and one precocious secret later and not only is the whole town talking, but the lovebirds may be on their way to a second chance. Carolyn Brown delivers the best desert ever. Double the guilty pleasure and none of the unwanted calories.
October 1, 2018
Yiiiiiiikes.... just no. Can't do this. This sugary, sickeningly sweet country bumpkin story didn't work for me even a little bit. I got to maybe the 25% mark and then found myself skimming EVERY SINGLE SENTENCE. Tried to push through. Couldn't. As much as I try to read these types of books, I'm finding it harder and harder to read fluffy, gooey romance.
September 8, 2020
Luckiest Cowboy of All
Truly enjoyed Jace and Carlene's story. Tilly was a very lovable character. Glad that we got the conclusion of Hope and Henry's story in this last Happy, Texas story. Actually I'm hoping that Carolyn Brown finds a way to take us back to Happy some time in the future.
Truly enjoyed Jace and Carlene's story. Tilly was a very lovable character. Glad that we got the conclusion of Hope and Henry's story in this last Happy, Texas story. Actually I'm hoping that Carolyn Brown finds a way to take us back to Happy some time in the future.
December 29, 2017
***ARC provided by the author for an honest review***
I cannot say enough about Luckiest Cowboy of All by Carolyn Brown. As the third book in her Happy, Texas series, it most certainly can be read as a standalone. This second chance romance with a twist has a hard working Cowboy and a blast from his past will melt your heart.
Carlene Varner has never stayed in the same place more than a year due to her parents being in the military. However, Happy, Texas is the only place she considered home where she lived with her Aunt Rosalie. After 8 years away from the small town, she finds herself back with her daughter Tilly. Moving around with her sister was a joy, but now Carlene wants Tilly to have roots somewhere. Wanting her daughter to have a steady childhood unlike she did.
“Sometimes it’s too late to do what you should’ve done years ago.”
Jace Dawson is the most eligible bachelor in Happy, Texas. Jace has always pegged himself to be just an uncle to his siblings children as he never imagined he would be a father. When Carlene, his old high school sweetheart comes back into town his world will shift, having him take a different look on life.
“Don’t analyze anything to death or worry it into the dirt.”
Carlene runs into her high school sweetheart, Jace Dawson just hours after coming back to town. Secrets are unraveled and Jace finds out that little Tilly has similar DNA to his own, which causes emotions to stir up the past. After a fire, Carlene and Tilly have no choice but to move in with Jace at his ranch. Causing Jace and Carlene to face the chemistry and feelings while living together, as well as Tilly must also come to terms with having a father.
This is the first book I have read by Carolyn Brown and I have to say it was great and an enjoyable read! I was engaged from the beginning until the end as Ms. Brown sucked me in with her impeccable writing and attention to detail in her characters. The chemistry that remains between Carlene and Jace after all those years was passionate. There were times when I wanted to throw my ereader due to them being stubborn. But all in all, when they were able to take the blinders off, see clearly, that is when you felt the love, the joy and you knew Jace was truly the Luckiest Cowboy!
I give this 4.5 stars.
I cannot say enough about Luckiest Cowboy of All by Carolyn Brown. As the third book in her Happy, Texas series, it most certainly can be read as a standalone. This second chance romance with a twist has a hard working Cowboy and a blast from his past will melt your heart.
Carlene Varner has never stayed in the same place more than a year due to her parents being in the military. However, Happy, Texas is the only place she considered home where she lived with her Aunt Rosalie. After 8 years away from the small town, she finds herself back with her daughter Tilly. Moving around with her sister was a joy, but now Carlene wants Tilly to have roots somewhere. Wanting her daughter to have a steady childhood unlike she did.
“Sometimes it’s too late to do what you should’ve done years ago.”
Jace Dawson is the most eligible bachelor in Happy, Texas. Jace has always pegged himself to be just an uncle to his siblings children as he never imagined he would be a father. When Carlene, his old high school sweetheart comes back into town his world will shift, having him take a different look on life.
“Don’t analyze anything to death or worry it into the dirt.”
Carlene runs into her high school sweetheart, Jace Dawson just hours after coming back to town. Secrets are unraveled and Jace finds out that little Tilly has similar DNA to his own, which causes emotions to stir up the past. After a fire, Carlene and Tilly have no choice but to move in with Jace at his ranch. Causing Jace and Carlene to face the chemistry and feelings while living together, as well as Tilly must also come to terms with having a father.
This is the first book I have read by Carolyn Brown and I have to say it was great and an enjoyable read! I was engaged from the beginning until the end as Ms. Brown sucked me in with her impeccable writing and attention to detail in her characters. The chemistry that remains between Carlene and Jace after all those years was passionate. There were times when I wanted to throw my ereader due to them being stubborn. But all in all, when they were able to take the blinders off, see clearly, that is when you felt the love, the joy and you knew Jace was truly the Luckiest Cowboy!
I give this 4.5 stars.
February 18, 2018
Carolyn Brown’s descriptive voice and her relatable characters changed the plot from the predictable secret baby read to an outstanding second chance romance. The personal connections between the characters of Henry and Hope and Jace and Carlene are crucial to the storyline as they provide the reader with perspective on the choices that the four characters made in the past. Understanding the choices and their consequences is a key element in both couples opportunity for the second chance romance.
Tilly Rose Varner is my favorite character! This precocious, open, friendly child with a personality the size of the state of Texas jumped off the pages and into my heart. Her upbeat personality captivated me and drew me into the story. It took me awhile to warm up to Tilly’s mom, Carlene. I didn’t understand why she kept Tilly away from Jace and how she expected him to feel when he saw his child after nine years. Jace Dawson is a hard working good man. He’s at a crossroads—his brothers have started families and his mother has moved out of the family’s ranch house. He’s not prepared to be a father but he accepts Tilly with an open heart. The father-daughter relationship is well-written and I enjoyed each page devoted to Tilly and Jace.
The chemistry between Jace and Carlene sizzles and they are given the opportunity to get reacquainted when Jace is injured. The heart felt conversations between the couple were emotional and honest. Jace is ready to plan for the future and Carlene can’t let herself think that far ahead. Hope has a big decision to make regarding her relationship with Henry. Hope confides to Carlene and both women support each other. Hope and Henry’s story appealed to me and I enjoyed its resolution. The conclusion in this heartwarming novel has several surprises in store for all of the characters. Loved that Tilly asked Jace to the father-daughter dance—it added a sweet touch – as it was important for Tilly to be part of a family.
LUCKIEST COWBOY OF ALL is a heartwarming story of forgiveness, second chances and family. Both couples have past issues to resolve before they can move forward. Enjoyed both couples journey towards happiness!
Tilly Rose Varner is my favorite character! This precocious, open, friendly child with a personality the size of the state of Texas jumped off the pages and into my heart. Her upbeat personality captivated me and drew me into the story. It took me awhile to warm up to Tilly’s mom, Carlene. I didn’t understand why she kept Tilly away from Jace and how she expected him to feel when he saw his child after nine years. Jace Dawson is a hard working good man. He’s at a crossroads—his brothers have started families and his mother has moved out of the family’s ranch house. He’s not prepared to be a father but he accepts Tilly with an open heart. The father-daughter relationship is well-written and I enjoyed each page devoted to Tilly and Jace.
The chemistry between Jace and Carlene sizzles and they are given the opportunity to get reacquainted when Jace is injured. The heart felt conversations between the couple were emotional and honest. Jace is ready to plan for the future and Carlene can’t let herself think that far ahead. Hope has a big decision to make regarding her relationship with Henry. Hope confides to Carlene and both women support each other. Hope and Henry’s story appealed to me and I enjoyed its resolution. The conclusion in this heartwarming novel has several surprises in store for all of the characters. Loved that Tilly asked Jace to the father-daughter dance—it added a sweet touch – as it was important for Tilly to be part of a family.
LUCKIEST COWBOY OF ALL is a heartwarming story of forgiveness, second chances and family. Both couples have past issues to resolve before they can move forward. Enjoyed both couples journey towards happiness!
June 5, 2018
Carolyn Brown, Luckiest Cowboy of All (#3 of The Happy, Texas Series) - I can't remember if I've ever read one of Ms. Brown's books; I hope so. I love to read any books situated in Texas, except those written by people who don't know anything about us. This is a heartwarming, suspense filled, second chances at love for four interesting people. The fun story moves along at a fast pace and before you know it, the story is finished.
There's no stupid formula in this story; just open communications between all involved in their part of the story. There are multiple stories on going with family and friends. All the supporting characters are also interesting, likable and communicate amongst themselves with realistic dialog. I'm looking forward to reading more by Ms. Brown. 5*
My paperback copy includes a preview of Cowboy Bold (unread) and a second story by Sara Richardson, Hometown Cowboy, 2*, which does not belong with Brown's book; clean and smart verse not clean and stupid. The print was too small to be comfortable to read at night.
Sara Richardson, Hometown Cowboy - This book should not have been put in the same paperback as Luckiest Cowboy of All, 5*, by Carolyn Brown. There's vulgar language and gauging the female character's attitude, stupidity and instant heat for the main character, the next morning after her boyfriend dumped her (always dumped), there's probably sex. I couldn't get into the two main characters. I guess he's OK, less the vulgar language, but she was too stupid for me. She's a veterinarian, practicing - not fresh out of high school, and she doesn't have any sense, just plain stupid and childish; definitely an idiot.
They're searching for his missing father in the mountains and all she can think about is how hot the son is; they're on one ATV. This is still the next morning. This is a popular, predictable formula that I come across frequently, but it is stupid and usually comes with vulgar language and explicit sex, (rarely necessary and extremely boring). I quit when she broke into tears, instead of planning how conduct the search after finding the father's ATV. I won't finish this book or read another by Richardson. The print was too small to be comfortable to read at night. 2*
There's no stupid formula in this story; just open communications between all involved in their part of the story. There are multiple stories on going with family and friends. All the supporting characters are also interesting, likable and communicate amongst themselves with realistic dialog. I'm looking forward to reading more by Ms. Brown. 5*
My paperback copy includes a preview of Cowboy Bold (unread) and a second story by Sara Richardson, Hometown Cowboy, 2*, which does not belong with Brown's book; clean and smart verse not clean and stupid. The print was too small to be comfortable to read at night.
Sara Richardson, Hometown Cowboy - This book should not have been put in the same paperback as Luckiest Cowboy of All, 5*, by Carolyn Brown. There's vulgar language and gauging the female character's attitude, stupidity and instant heat for the main character, the next morning after her boyfriend dumped her (always dumped), there's probably sex. I couldn't get into the two main characters. I guess he's OK, less the vulgar language, but she was too stupid for me. She's a veterinarian, practicing - not fresh out of high school, and she doesn't have any sense, just plain stupid and childish; definitely an idiot.
They're searching for his missing father in the mountains and all she can think about is how hot the son is; they're on one ATV. This is still the next morning. This is a popular, predictable formula that I come across frequently, but it is stupid and usually comes with vulgar language and explicit sex, (rarely necessary and extremely boring). I quit when she broke into tears, instead of planning how conduct the search after finding the father's ATV. I won't finish this book or read another by Richardson. The print was too small to be comfortable to read at night. 2*
January 24, 2018
Luckiest Cowboy of All by Carolyn Brown is the final book in her Lucky, Texas series. Ms. Brown has once again brought together some characters who entertain with tender moments, family love and unity, witty conversations and fun scenes. These characters are so true to life that I found myself looking at them as friends and family as I read their stories. In this book Carlene Varner returns to Happy, Texas with her third grade, 8 1/2 year old daughter, Tilly because she wants her daughter to grow up in a place where she can happily put down roots. This is something she didn't have growing up since her family moved every couple years. Carlene knows she will see Jace Dawson who she dated in high school since Happy is such a small town. What happens when they do meet again is a special and enlightening scene in the story. Needless to say the attraction between them is still as hot as ever. What happens along the way to Carlene and Jace finding their Happily Ever After is a fun read.
Carolyn Brown has a brilliant talent when it comes to writing child characters. In my opinion in this story little Tilly absolutely steals the show. She is a chatty, independent whirlwind of a kid and I found her to be the best part of the story. The things this child says are a hoot! For instance how she relates the story of when she saw a mouse in the falling down house she and her mother have moved into really made me laugh. She said, "I think I saw a mouse yesterday. But I didn't cuss - even though I wanted to - because that get's me in trouble." I love this kid!
Reading the next book in a Carolyn Brown series gives you the warm feeling of coming home again after being away for a while. That's a really great feeling. Pick up Luckiest Cowboy of All and enjoy the warm feeling of getting to know down-home characters in a makes-you-feel-good story.
Carolyn Brown has a brilliant talent when it comes to writing child characters. In my opinion in this story little Tilly absolutely steals the show. She is a chatty, independent whirlwind of a kid and I found her to be the best part of the story. The things this child says are a hoot! For instance how she relates the story of when she saw a mouse in the falling down house she and her mother have moved into really made me laugh. She said, "I think I saw a mouse yesterday. But I didn't cuss - even though I wanted to - because that get's me in trouble." I love this kid!
Reading the next book in a Carolyn Brown series gives you the warm feeling of coming home again after being away for a while. That's a really great feeling. Pick up Luckiest Cowboy of All and enjoy the warm feeling of getting to know down-home characters in a makes-you-feel-good story.
July 14, 2018
Whew! I have to admit I was a bit nervous about this one after reading Long, Tall Cowboy Christmas. Of course, as I’ve stated before, I love all of the characters in this series so I had a bit of hope the author would pull through. And she did!
That’s not to say that the characters stopped talking to themselves far too often…they still do that. But not so much that it drove me to distraction. And there are a few timeline inconsistencies. One big one you won’t notice if you didn’t read the other books, but we hop right into Henry being back in town and having showed up at Christmas. That was a big problem of mine with the end of the last book, how that wasn’t resolved. Apparently, it was but not written about? I’m not sure. But he’s there in Happy and everyone is aware.
I have just loved Jace throughout this series. He’s such a great brother and uncle. I just knew he’d be a good daddy. He’s so patient with the situation and gives his daughter, Tilly, plenty of space to come to her own conclusions about him and their relationship. In fact, Jace is such a great guy that he doesn’t really give Carlene the full brunt of his hurt and anger that he should. At least in my opinion. In fact, the whole family is pretty darn accepting of what Carlene did to them by keeping Tilly a secret. As much as I love their open arms and love, it really threw me for a loop after the way some of them treated Lila when she came back to town sans child in Toughest Cowboy in Texas.
As for the chemistry, Jace and Carlene have that in spades. I especially enjoyed how their young daughter could even feel the vibe between them when they thought they were being so careful and discreet with their own feelings. That Tilly sure is precocious!
See my full review at https://allingoodtimeblog.wordpress.c...
That’s not to say that the characters stopped talking to themselves far too often…they still do that. But not so much that it drove me to distraction. And there are a few timeline inconsistencies. One big one you won’t notice if you didn’t read the other books, but we hop right into Henry being back in town and having showed up at Christmas. That was a big problem of mine with the end of the last book, how that wasn’t resolved. Apparently, it was but not written about? I’m not sure. But he’s there in Happy and everyone is aware.
I have just loved Jace throughout this series. He’s such a great brother and uncle. I just knew he’d be a good daddy. He’s so patient with the situation and gives his daughter, Tilly, plenty of space to come to her own conclusions about him and their relationship. In fact, Jace is such a great guy that he doesn’t really give Carlene the full brunt of his hurt and anger that he should. At least in my opinion. In fact, the whole family is pretty darn accepting of what Carlene did to them by keeping Tilly a secret. As much as I love their open arms and love, it really threw me for a loop after the way some of them treated Lila when she came back to town sans child in Toughest Cowboy in Texas.
As for the chemistry, Jace and Carlene have that in spades. I especially enjoyed how their young daughter could even feel the vibe between them when they thought they were being so careful and discreet with their own feelings. That Tilly sure is precocious!
See my full review at https://allingoodtimeblog.wordpress.c...
January 17, 2018
Luckiest Cowboy of All by Carolyn Brown is an engaging romance. I enjoyed the 8-year-old daughter the most. Her language and attitude is adorable! I can only imagine what her parents will go through when she's a teen...going to be hell. The main protagonists such as the cowboy and his past high school sweetheart were likable not not as much as their daughter was. These two had chemistry but it was like they were dragging their feet too much for me to really love them as much as I did Tilly.
The title is exactly what this story is about. A cowboy who gets lucky. He finds out his love is back in town, they still have the sparks, and that he is now, a father of an eight year old girl. Talk about surprises...Jace couldn't believe it when he saw Tilley and found out her age. After that it was like he was being sucker punched in the gut.
Carlene loved Jace when they were together. They spent one amazing yet reckless night and it changed her life forever. Her parents moved, she became pregnant and had Tilley. Carlene raised Tilley by herself and never told Jace. Even though he had every right to know...
Now, as fate has it they both are brought together in more ways than one...
The words from Tilley' mouth made me laugh so hard, it was amazing. I loved it!
Overall, this contemporary romance is a must read. Humor, action, and second chances were enticing in this tale. There was a big emphasis on family in this book. I enjoyed the other cast of smaller characters. They too, made this a sweet journey.
I received this copy from the publisher. This is my voluntary review.
The title is exactly what this story is about. A cowboy who gets lucky. He finds out his love is back in town, they still have the sparks, and that he is now, a father of an eight year old girl. Talk about surprises...Jace couldn't believe it when he saw Tilley and found out her age. After that it was like he was being sucker punched in the gut.
Carlene loved Jace when they were together. They spent one amazing yet reckless night and it changed her life forever. Her parents moved, she became pregnant and had Tilley. Carlene raised Tilley by herself and never told Jace. Even though he had every right to know...
Now, as fate has it they both are brought together in more ways than one...
The words from Tilley' mouth made me laugh so hard, it was amazing. I loved it!
Overall, this contemporary romance is a must read. Humor, action, and second chances were enticing in this tale. There was a big emphasis on family in this book. I enjoyed the other cast of smaller characters. They too, made this a sweet journey.
I received this copy from the publisher. This is my voluntary review.
January 30, 2018
Reviewed at Keeper Bookshelf
While I enjoyed Luckiest Cowboy of All, I was also rather torn about it, too. I loved Jace and sweet Tilly, they really saved this story for me. I couldn’t connect with Carlene – at all. Her reasons for not telling Jace that he had a daughter weren’t anywhere near good enough – for me. I always question why a woman would hide her child from the father. If he was abusive, or in a dangerous lifestyle, or worse then perhaps I could see not telling him. But Jace was none of those things so Carlene’s reasoning simply wasn’t good enough for me. So, I can dislike one character or their actions yet still enjoy the other aspects of the story and that is pretty much where I was with this one.
Carolyn Brown always weaves a good story, even when I don’t agree with a character’s actions their story is always entertaining. Real life happens, and for some people this would be their reality.
The second story in this double book is Sara Richardson’s Hometown Cowboy which I had already read and reviewed. An enjoyable story. It’s always a treat to get an additional story in a book so if you haven’t yet discovered Ms Richardson’s work I believe you’ll enjoy this story as well.
*I received an e-ARC of this novel from the publisher via NetGalley. That does not change what I think of this story. It is my choice to leave a review giving my personal opinion about this book.*
While I enjoyed Luckiest Cowboy of All, I was also rather torn about it, too. I loved Jace and sweet Tilly, they really saved this story for me. I couldn’t connect with Carlene – at all. Her reasons for not telling Jace that he had a daughter weren’t anywhere near good enough – for me. I always question why a woman would hide her child from the father. If he was abusive, or in a dangerous lifestyle, or worse then perhaps I could see not telling him. But Jace was none of those things so Carlene’s reasoning simply wasn’t good enough for me. So, I can dislike one character or their actions yet still enjoy the other aspects of the story and that is pretty much where I was with this one.
Carolyn Brown always weaves a good story, even when I don’t agree with a character’s actions their story is always entertaining. Real life happens, and for some people this would be their reality.
The second story in this double book is Sara Richardson’s Hometown Cowboy which I had already read and reviewed. An enjoyable story. It’s always a treat to get an additional story in a book so if you haven’t yet discovered Ms Richardson’s work I believe you’ll enjoy this story as well.
*I received an e-ARC of this novel from the publisher via NetGalley. That does not change what I think of this story. It is my choice to leave a review giving my personal opinion about this book.*
February 7, 2018
Carolyn Brown never fails to deliver. Luckiest Cowboy of All is the story of Jace and Carlene, They were high school sweethearts. When she found out she was pregnant she knew they were too young and she didn't want to ruin Jace'life so she never told him. That was nine years ago and now she wanted Tilly to have roots and be surrounded by family so she went back to Happy Texas.
She didn't know how she was going to tell Jace. For all she knew he could be married with kids of his own. She inherited her aunt's house in Happy and as they were moving in Jace came by to welcome them. Carlene thought she would have some time to prepare to tell Jace about Tilly. When Tilly came in the room she knew by the look on his face that she didn't have to say anything because he knew she was his.
Now you have to read the book and see how they are going to co-parent....and what does Tilly think of Jace. Carlene has been mother and father to her ....does she need anyone else. I loved every minute of this book and hated for it to end. Deserves all five stars and then some.
Hometown Cowboy by Sara Richardson was also included in this book. This is Jessa and Lance's love story. Lance never got over his mother walking out on her family when he was very young. He has nver let anyone get close. One night stands are all he wants. UNTIL he takes a second look at Jessa and wonders why he never noticed her before. He has sworn off any type of relationship as has Jessa. How is that going to work for the two of them? Read it and find out. This was also a great story.
She didn't know how she was going to tell Jace. For all she knew he could be married with kids of his own. She inherited her aunt's house in Happy and as they were moving in Jace came by to welcome them. Carlene thought she would have some time to prepare to tell Jace about Tilly. When Tilly came in the room she knew by the look on his face that she didn't have to say anything because he knew she was his.
Now you have to read the book and see how they are going to co-parent....and what does Tilly think of Jace. Carlene has been mother and father to her ....does she need anyone else. I loved every minute of this book and hated for it to end. Deserves all five stars and then some.
Hometown Cowboy by Sara Richardson was also included in this book. This is Jessa and Lance's love story. Lance never got over his mother walking out on her family when he was very young. He has nver let anyone get close. One night stands are all he wants. UNTIL he takes a second look at Jessa and wonders why he never noticed her before. He has sworn off any type of relationship as has Jessa. How is that going to work for the two of them? Read it and find out. This was also a great story.
February 2, 2018
In the last book of this series, Carolyn Brown has given her loyal reading fans a fun, sassy, and HEA we expect it to be.
Charlene has come back to Happy, Texas to give her child the roots she never had. There was only one little bitty problem with her moving back to the town where she once lived with her great-aunt Rosalie, Jace Dawson. Who just happened to be the father of her child, only he does not know that and when he finds out.... well Charlene has some real explaining to do. And young Tilly his 8 yr old daughter is a real pistol and she just want to be his friend and does not want a Daddy.
These three have to find out how to be a family and what better way to do this than by living together after a fire destroys Charlene's home left to her by Aunt Rosalie and they move into Jace's ranch house.
The fun ensues watching three people try to become the family they all want.
With the help of well meaning family and friends pushing them together, will Charlene and Tilly find the roots they want and will Jace find the one thing that has been missing in his life.... Love.
I did not wan this story to end, but Carolyn Brown did with the her famous style and made you glad you took the time to visit Happy, Texas...
Charlene has come back to Happy, Texas to give her child the roots she never had. There was only one little bitty problem with her moving back to the town where she once lived with her great-aunt Rosalie, Jace Dawson. Who just happened to be the father of her child, only he does not know that and when he finds out.... well Charlene has some real explaining to do. And young Tilly his 8 yr old daughter is a real pistol and she just want to be his friend and does not want a Daddy.
These three have to find out how to be a family and what better way to do this than by living together after a fire destroys Charlene's home left to her by Aunt Rosalie and they move into Jace's ranch house.
The fun ensues watching three people try to become the family they all want.
With the help of well meaning family and friends pushing them together, will Charlene and Tilly find the roots they want and will Jace find the one thing that has been missing in his life.... Love.
I did not wan this story to end, but Carolyn Brown did with the her famous style and made you glad you took the time to visit Happy, Texas...
February 6, 2018
This is the third book about Happy Texas. It opens with Charlene and her daughter Tilly coming to the town and to what they think is a house that she has inherited from her grandmother. Hoping that she can stop moving and settle down. She is also back to let the father of Tilly know that he is a father. Now the reason why she did not tell him I can understand at the time, but the waiting nine years may be a little much. Jace is glad Charlene has moved back, but is surprised when he sees Tilly. He knows she is his and there is the rest of the story. Working out how it is going to work. There is also a good story of the grandmother of Jace finding her old love and them working on being together. For me there was nothing special about this story. If it was not for the character of Tilly and the grandmother it would not be a very good story for me. That is just me, for others I am sure it will be right up there alley. I received this book from Netgalley.com I gave it 3 stars. Follow us at www.1rad-readerreviews.com
August 5, 2018
This was just okay for me. I couldn't really keep at it and kept putting it down to do other things. There isn't much to this story for me. I was waiting for some conflict and there was none to be had. I think there should have been, seeing how the Dawson's had missed out on knowing Tilly for the first decade of her life. No hard feelings, no arguments, and no anger. I think even a good guy like Jace would have broke down at least once and asked why. Why would a woman hide a child for all those years? It just didn't jive for me.
The rest of the story was just okay. Since this was the first book I read, I got the feeling I missed a few that were before this. It didn't hinder the story in anyway, but I felt like I missed a few details (even if they weren't important to the main story).
This just wasn't for me. It was just a random buy when I needed a new paperback for camping and, unfortunately, this was a big miss for me.
The rest of the story was just okay. Since this was the first book I read, I got the feeling I missed a few that were before this. It didn't hinder the story in anyway, but I felt like I missed a few details (even if they weren't important to the main story).
This just wasn't for me. It was just a random buy when I needed a new paperback for camping and, unfortunately, this was a big miss for me.
January 11, 2019
Well, initially Jace doesn’t feel all that lucky. Discovering after 9 years that he has a daughter he knew nothing about would rock any man’s world. The family resemblance leaves no doubt and news travels at the speed of sound in Happy, Texas. Since few outside the Vatican believe in immaculate conception an eighteen-year-old Jace played his part in her mother’s pregnancy. Living in sin no longer seems to be a thing except among choir gossips. Eventually it can be expected that he will make an honest woman out of her though there may be just a might too much drama and angst along the way. This is a cowboy romance. Along the way the bull Sundance supplies his own brand of comedy. Unlike most artificially inseminated dairy herds these cows get true romance just like their cowboys and cowgirls. And though cowboys may think they rule the range when their women speak they’d better sit up and take notice.
February 12, 2019
Luckiest Cowboy of All: I felt like the author skimmed across the surface and didn't dig very deep. There were so many trials to be overcome that I felt this skimming had an adverse effect on the story and the characters. If I was the one having to deal with all these problems, I can guarantee you I would have been very vocal about it, and everyone would know just how I felt, so I couldn't see Carlene keeping so much to herself, regardless of her emotional type, or maybe because of her emotional type - the type that holds everything inside. Eventually those types explode and I kept waiting for it but it never happened.
Hometown Cowboy: I couldn't get into the characters in this book and found the story somewhat boring. The best part was the description of a two-hour hike up into the mountains near the beginning and the bull ride at the end, where you see it from the rider's viewpoint. That eight seconds was pretty exciting. The rest was ho-hum.
Hometown Cowboy: I couldn't get into the characters in this book and found the story somewhat boring. The best part was the description of a two-hour hike up into the mountains near the beginning and the bull ride at the end, where you see it from the rider's viewpoint. That eight seconds was pretty exciting. The rest was ho-hum.
September 30, 2018
I liked this story, but I’m not sure I understand why I did. I adored Jace and all the extended Dawson clan. The secondary romance with Hope and Henry almost should have been the focus instead. Tilly is a force of nature and completely irresistible. Carlene is where it all breaks down for me. I’m fifty-fifty on secret baby plots. There’s only a couple of truly legitimate reasons I can support for a father not being told he has a child. None of those are anywhere in evidence in this book. And it irks the living daylights out of me that Carlene is never truly contrite about stealing all those years from her daughter and Jace. She also spends most of the story whining and complaining that she now has to “share” Tilly with the Dawsons. I really enjoyed the way the book ended, though. Especially seeing where the other two couples from this series have progressed to.
August 31, 2019
I like secret baby romances so I was looking forward to reading this book. But the "baby" was an 8-year-old! I didn't like that Carlene hadn't told Jace about her. I understand why she didn't tell him that she was pregnant when they were teenagers but to NEVER tell him he had a daughter! NO! Then, when she came back to town years later she thought she would tell him about their daughter when she was ready. Really? In a town where gossip was everyone's favourite passtime? And when she looked so much like him and his family? Not a very bright woman. I couldn't get over how selfish she was to keep him from seeing his child grow up and for telling her daughter that she didn't have a father. On top of all that, I never felt the attraction we were told about whenever this couple were together.
December 29, 2017
Carlene has come back home after her Aunt has passed away. Thinking she owns the house she and her daughter Tilly move in.
The one person she doesn’t want to see, Jace, shows up on her door step and explain to her she only has a few weeks to live as her aunt sold him the land and he gave it over to the Rodeo.
It was cute to see these two tip toe around each other at first. When a fire happens and Jace thinks he lost his true love and their daughter he makes a few changes and takes things one step at a time.
The characters are great and the love that developed for a young girl and her daddy was wonderful to read.
I voluntarily read a copy of this book from NetGalley.
The one person she doesn’t want to see, Jace, shows up on her door step and explain to her she only has a few weeks to live as her aunt sold him the land and he gave it over to the Rodeo.
It was cute to see these two tip toe around each other at first. When a fire happens and Jace thinks he lost his true love and their daughter he makes a few changes and takes things one step at a time.
The characters are great and the love that developed for a young girl and her daddy was wonderful to read.
I voluntarily read a copy of this book from NetGalley.
February 12, 2018
ARC REVIEW
Happy Texas #3, Jace Dawson probably the nicest, caring, unselfish guys I've ever read. He's also great with his niece and nephews and he has a way with animals. So what did he do to deserve this? I enjoy Carolyn Brown's writing it's emotional and well paced, the characters are likeable for the most part, Carlene not so much but she grows on you. The situations isn't overly angsty and aside from the times you really just want to smack Carlene upside the head for being stubborn and kind of stupid at times the characters are fun. Especially Granny Hope who has a bit of a side story going on and Valerie, which I am glad to say she has gotten that stick removed from her butt and she is a delight in this book, and of course Lila, Brody, Kasey, Nash, and the kids they are awesome. I how Carolyn Brown doesn't depict a picture perfect small town, Texas small towns are often super judgmental, close minded, and very gossipy but at the same time very friendly and will go out of the way to help and I love living in a small Texas town.
Carlene and Jace feel in love in highschool, but unfortunately Carlene's Dad was in the military she had to move shortly after graduation. They kept in touch for about a week or two then Carlene cut off all communication. Jace's heart was broken and never became seriously involved with another woman after that. Nine years down the line Carlene inherited her Great Aunt's farmhouse and after spending her whole life moving first with her father then with her sister, who also was in the military, she decided it was the perfect place to put down roots mostly for her daughter Tilly.
Carlene loved Happy Texas and the few years she spent there were the happiest memories. Her first day back and Jace shows up, she knew he would eventually she just wish she had time to prepare she wasn't ready to tell him about Tilly, his daughter. The reason Jace showed up was two fold, one he wanted to see Carlene and two he needed to tell her the house she inherited was sold to him a couple of months before her aunt's death. One look at Tilly and Jace knows she is his daughter, she is the spittin' image of his sister but with his eyes. It's a good thing Jace found out first because with how fast gossip spreads in that town can you imagine how pissed Jace would have been if he found out through gossip, heck I'm surprised they managed to keep it from Tilly as long as they did and when she does find out she adamantly proclaims she doesn't need a Daddy. Carlene has some adjusting to do as well, she so use to being the only one there for Tilly that suddenly having a big family to help when needed is a little overwhelming. It's a long journey for Jace, Carlene, and Tilly to become a family with lots of bumps along the way, the biggest one being Carlene herself.
Overall, I really enjoyed this one. I don't know if I would have called Jace the "luckiest" he did miss out on almost nine years of his daughter's life, but he is lucky that he finally has them in his life again. I absolutely adored Granny Hope's side story.
Happy Texas #3, Jace Dawson probably the nicest, caring, unselfish guys I've ever read. He's also great with his niece and nephews and he has a way with animals. So what did he do to deserve this? I enjoy Carolyn Brown's writing it's emotional and well paced, the characters are likeable for the most part, Carlene not so much but she grows on you. The situations isn't overly angsty and aside from the times you really just want to smack Carlene upside the head for being stubborn and kind of stupid at times the characters are fun. Especially Granny Hope who has a bit of a side story going on and Valerie, which I am glad to say she has gotten that stick removed from her butt and she is a delight in this book, and of course Lila, Brody, Kasey, Nash, and the kids they are awesome. I how Carolyn Brown doesn't depict a picture perfect small town, Texas small towns are often super judgmental, close minded, and very gossipy but at the same time very friendly and will go out of the way to help and I love living in a small Texas town.
Carlene and Jace feel in love in highschool, but unfortunately Carlene's Dad was in the military she had to move shortly after graduation. They kept in touch for about a week or two then Carlene cut off all communication. Jace's heart was broken and never became seriously involved with another woman after that. Nine years down the line Carlene inherited her Great Aunt's farmhouse and after spending her whole life moving first with her father then with her sister, who also was in the military, she decided it was the perfect place to put down roots mostly for her daughter Tilly.
Carlene loved Happy Texas and the few years she spent there were the happiest memories. Her first day back and Jace shows up, she knew he would eventually she just wish she had time to prepare she wasn't ready to tell him about Tilly, his daughter. The reason Jace showed up was two fold, one he wanted to see Carlene and two he needed to tell her the house she inherited was sold to him a couple of months before her aunt's death. One look at Tilly and Jace knows she is his daughter, she is the spittin' image of his sister but with his eyes. It's a good thing Jace found out first because with how fast gossip spreads in that town can you imagine how pissed Jace would have been if he found out through gossip, heck I'm surprised they managed to keep it from Tilly as long as they did and when she does find out she adamantly proclaims she doesn't need a Daddy. Carlene has some adjusting to do as well, she so use to being the only one there for Tilly that suddenly having a big family to help when needed is a little overwhelming. It's a long journey for Jace, Carlene, and Tilly to become a family with lots of bumps along the way, the biggest one being Carlene herself.
Overall, I really enjoyed this one. I don't know if I would have called Jace the "luckiest" he did miss out on almost nine years of his daughter's life, but he is lucky that he finally has them in his life again. I absolutely adored Granny Hope's side story.
February 12, 2018
I truly enjoy all the western romance books that Carolyn Brown writes and this is no exception. When Carlene Varner returns to Happy, Texas with a daughter that Jace Dawson did not know about, everything gets turned upside down. Is this what both of them wanted when she left right after high school graduation or would they have made a marriage work under the circumstances? They would never find out since Carlene did not tell him about her pregnancy and raised Tilley by herself. She finally decided that they both needed roots so she returned to where her Aunt had left her a house and where she had been the happiest. This is a fun and uplifting story.
December 19, 2017
I really liked Jace the man had an even temper, “no complaints here, darlin’. I get to see part of you all naked again.” Jace teased." One minute they're arguing and the next Carlene is giving her man whiplash:
“You got a condom?” she asked.
His gray eyes widened. “What did you say?”
“You heard me.”
“Got a whole box yesterday.” He lowered his voice. “They’re in my nightstand. Bring as many as you think we’ll need..."
I liked this book, I loved Jace.
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