Taming the Texan

by Jules Bennett

Stranded with a rich, rugged rancher…

Single mom Alexa Rodriguez’s first child-free vacation in years is supposed to be low-key. But then she meets brooding Texas rancher Hayes Elliott. Heir to an empire and suffering deep emotional pain, he tries to push her away—even as she craves his touch. And when a storm strands them together, their undeniable chemistry explodes. Now Alexa finds herself introducing Hayes to her precious son, imagining herself in Hayes’s world and keeping secrets that could destroy everything…

Genres: Romance, Harlequin

224 pages, Mass Market Paperback

Published January 2, 2018

About the author

USA Today Bestselling Author Jules Bennett has written for multiple publishing houses and currently has books with Harlequin and Kensington.

She loves to chat with readers through Twitter or her Fan Page on Facebook. You can also contact her through her website as well as stay up to date on her latest releases, book events, and awards. julesbennett.com

Reviews

[Isha Coleman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Taming the Texan takes a look at love from all sides. From the heartache and grief that shadows loss to the fear, guilt and inspiration that finding new love can bring. What begins as a meeting between strangers morphs into a merging of souls. Hayes and Alexa have both struggled with survivor's guilt. Alexa has had two tragic loses in her young life and is slowly bouncing back from the most recent one. Hayes is a man haunted by events of war and comrades lost. Can a twist of fate not only help them heal, but create a family? Jules Bennett comes at love from a different angle and delivers moments that are priceless.

[Judyrudy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Taming the Texan is Jules Bennett’s contribution to Harlequin Desire’s Billionaire’s & Babies series. I’ve been waiting for this book for some time now. I’ve loved watching this series develop and definitely was not disappointed with this book.

Alexa Rodriguez and Hayes Elliott have both dealt with heartache surrounding the military. Alexa lost her husband in the same war that Hayes fought and was injured. Unbeknownst to Alexa, Hayes knew her husband. And when Alexa discovers their friendship she realizes that the feelings she has for Hayes can’t continue.

Taming the Texan was filled with such emotion. Alexa, who was dealing with the loss of her husband, was also doing her best to raise her son. Hayes can’t come to grips with the losses he endured.

As each learn to deal with their pasts, can Hayes forgive Alexa for not being honest with him and can Alexa move on without her husband?

I absolutely loved Taming the Texan. This was a quick read that I couldn’t put down. I look forward to the next book in the series and I can’t wait to read about Beau’s secret.

[Amanda · Rating 4 out of 5]

Taming the Texan is a sweet, charming romance and the perfect escape read. The splendid writing artfully brings to light with vivid portrayal, captivating characters whose realistic natures give the story depth and adds layers of drama to keep you riveted. I loved the sensual romance between Hayes and Alexa. Their growth and the bumpy ride they take to reach their HEA proves that even the toughest of challenges can be won through love and commitment.

Highly Recommended
4.5 Stars

[Kathleen · Rating 5 out of 5]

In Taming the Texan, we meet the next Elliot brother Hayes, who has been in the Army and is suffering from PTSD and also from the betrayal of his fiancé while he was off fighting for his country. He has come home to hopefully find some peace, but that will be shattered when he meets the striking and alluring single mother Alexa. She is staying at the B&B owned by one of his sister-in-law’s. When Alexa wonders down to the stable to go for a horseback ride, she meets the tough and brooding Hayes. Sparks instantly begin to fly and the two get caught in a thundering rainstorm, but that is nothing compared to the storm that is churning between these two people.

I really enjoyed the instant chemistry between Hayes and Alexa. Page after page Jules Bennett fueled the fire between these two, but the secrets that each have hidden, keeps the reader coming back for more. The introduction of Alexa’s son Mason, gives us more heart and soul for the story. Alexa cannot give up her trust and her heart to someone else, after becoming widowed. I loved how he is always at the forefront of the decisions this young widow has to make and how even though she feels a passion for Hayes, her child is her priority. Can she make Hayes see that he can have happiness and a family? Can Hayes help Alexa depend on him to be a good father to Mason and a loving husband to her? Can these two people who have both loved and lost find love with each other? And what is that age old saying “ A child will lead them”…… Another excellent story that takes place on Pebblebrook Ranch with more to come our way….

[Lynn Brooks · Rating 5 out of 5]

4 1/2 STARS!

She's out of her comfort zone, he'd rather hide-away from the world ... but when circumstances have them stuck together during a storm, sparks fly and passion ignites! This was a super quick, fun read! He's surly and has a few reasons for being that way ... she hasn't had the best luck in life, but is happily willing to try again as long as her little one is along for the ride. It doesn't take long for them to grab our attention ... and our hearts ... on a wild ride towards forever!

When her best friend pretty much forces her to take a vacation by stealing her kid and buying the getaway, single mom Alexa Rodriguez doesn't know how she's going to pass the time! She decides to look around at some of the offerings at the B & B and stumbles into neighbor Hayes Elliott at the stable.

War-hero Hayes Elliott isn't happy to see a stranger on his land, but when he finds out she's a guest over at his sister-in-law's B & B, he realizes he's going to have to play nice. He would much rather not have to interact with outsiders while he's still being plagued by PTSD and heartache after returning home. Alexa surprises him though and is way too tempting to resist! They soon find themselves taking opportunities to see each other again and she even introduces him to her son ... but there's a major secret blowing in the wind between them ... when he finds out what she knows and didn't share, will they be able to salvage a relationship or will he use the info to his advantage and delve back into his shell again?

[Belinda · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book you meet Hayes. The reclusive Elliot brother. He is suffering PTSD from this time in the service so he stays to himself mostly! Alexa is a single mom staying at his sister in laws B&B for the weekend without her son. She comes to the stables to ride a horse and in walks Hayes. She thinks he is a stable hand til she finds out different..He is rude and not nice but than they end up taking a ride across the property where they get caught in a storm. Hayes takes her to his house. The original of the property that he is fixing up..The sparks have flown around them all day but when they are trapped in the house by themselves they finally let in to that passion. But than Alexa finds out that her late husband was Hayes best friend but she can't tell them. When he takes her to an award ceremony..they come home and spend the night together..but the next morning he finds her wedding picture and he stalks off..She gives him some space but her and her son Mason go hunt him down...This is such a wonderful story. How Hayes couldn't rest unless Alexa was there as she made him feel safe. She doesn't coddle him like his family. She was his safe place. Had happy tears sliding down my face while reading the ending especially!

[Riet De Bruin-Strijker · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was very pleasantly surprised reading Jules Bennett’s Taming the Texan. It had flare, style, and an abundance of sassiness and a whole lotta sexy in it. No need to say I loved reading it. I was so glad reading about a sassy woman, not running away from troubles and dashing right back in and confronting them. And Hayes, the hero, not able to turn away from his desires and finally someone who understood him and his PTSD. This book flowed so brilliantly and the story was so compellingly written, it was difficult to shut down the book when I arrived at my destination: I read while I commute. If you want to read a hot and steamy romance, read Taming the Texan!

Single mom Alexa Rodriguez’s first child-free vacation in years is supposed to be low-key. But then she meets brooding Texas rancher Hayes Elliott. Heir to an empire and suffering deep emotional pain, he tries to push her away—even as she craves his touch. And when a storm strands them together, their undeniable chemistry explodes. Now Alexa finds herself introducing Hayes to her precious son, imagining herself in Hayes’s world and keeping secrets that could destroy everything…

[Lisa · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book in another in the Elliot brothers Rancher's Heir series. This time we finally find out how military vet Hayes is doing, He's been a bit of mystery until now. Alexa is supposed to be staying at the ranch B&B. After just getting there she decides she wants to go for a ride so she heads to the stables and runs into Hayes. He might be more of loner than anything else these days but he's still a gentleman so he agrees to take her out. When a bad thunderstorm breaks out they find themselves at Hayes home where there is no place for either one to hide. I loved these two together. No matter how broken Hayes thinks he is he's still this great guy. He refuses to see it. Being stuck with no place to go eventually leaves him no choice but to face his demons and letting Alexa in. I think one of the best parts of this book is when Hayes finally meets Alexa's little boy and it's like he's always been a part of his life. Enjoyable as a stand alone but better if you read the previous books first. Great weekend reading!

[Marcie Robinson · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Taming the Texan” is part of The Rancher’s Heirs by Jules Bennett and features Hayes Elliott and Alexa Rodriguez.

Hayes suffers from PTSD from his time in the military and comes home to Pebblebrook to spend time alone and to heal. Unfortunately, with the family ranch opening a B&B he has to deal with guests. In this instance it’s Alexa Rodriguez.
Alexa is a widow with a fourteen-month-old son. Her main goal is to put her son first, her needs second. But when she meets Hayes, she has to remind herself of that.

When an expected storm arrives early and strands Hayes and Alexa at his house, even the rain can’t cool their attraction. However, there is more to their heated attraction. Alexa calms the restlessness within Hayes and Alexa realizes how lonely she’s been.

I enjoyed the chemistry between Hayes and Alexa, but even more than that I loved how Ms. Bennett showed us the healing power of love.

[Traci Westling · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was thrilled to read this book in exchange for an honest review . Quite frankly , this has to have been one of Jules best books ever.... from the moment I opened this book & new that the hero was a war hero with PTSD I knew I’d have a hard time putting this down in between reading it! Hayes & Alexa were such a beautiful couple follow during this remarkable heartwarming romantic journey while dealing with his PTSD & then learning of Alexa’s deceased husbands association with Hayes. This is one of those books that you just know that a lot of heart, love & soul went into the writing. I had been looking forward to meeting this brother and wondering how his story would be told considering the family dynamics with the ailing father & as far as I’m concerned, Jules nailed it with absolute compassion giving us one of the best epilogues leading to the next in this amazing series! Well done Jules !

[Cindy Hamilton · Rating 5 out of 5]

Once again Jules Bennett weaves a wonderful love story touching on a subject that is very prevalent in today's society, veterans dealing with PTSD. Taming The Texan brings together 2 totally opposite people but what is the saying "opposites attract", this story proves it's true. Elliot Hayes who was in the Army returns home, Elliot suffers from PTSD and wants to be left alone. But Elliot has a chance meeting with Alexa Rodriquez in the family stable and that's where the story starts. Elliot is rude to Alexa but there are sparks that are ignited between the two of them. Neither is looking for love but who can stop love. There are hurdles to overcome, Elliot was betrayed by his ex-fiance' with his commanding officer and is dealing with his PTSD and Elexa needs to consider her 14 month old son. Read this wonderful story to find out the rest of the story, you will not be disappointed, I wasn't!!
Heartwarming story!
I received an ARC for an honest review.

[Janet Rodman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Taming The Texan
By Jules Bennett
Alexa Rodriquez is a widow with a small child who teaches special needs pre-K children. A friend gives her a gift of a weekend away at a B & B. While checking out the stables at the Pebblebrook Ranch, she runs into Hayes Elliott, one of the owners of the Ranch. Hayes has many issues, both commitment and PTSD. A storm develops, and Hayes brings Alexa back to his house until the storm ends. As they wait out the storm outside, another storm develops between the two of them. What started out as a fling, soon develops into something more.
I really enjoyed Alexa’s character. She is snarky and doesn’t back down, even when Hayes is being hardheaded. She is also very nurturing and caring, something Hayes needed. Try as he might, Hayes can’t resist her. You can’t help but cheer him on as he comes to realize that Alexa is the best thing that ever happened to him. I really enjoyed this book and look forward to the next book in the Elliott brothers series.

[Julie Eichelberger-Ford · Rating 5 out of 5]

Taming the Texan is a continuation in the Elliott brothers story but is also a stand alone. This is a story about the struggles of PTSD, overcoming grief and learning that life goes on. A forced vacation, a chance encounter and a fast, hard thunderstorm create the background for a hot, steamy, no-strings attached weekend that becomes anything but. Hayes Elliott is not only suffering from PTSD but also the betrayal of his former fiancé. He only wants to be left alone to heal and isn't looking for a relationship. In walks Alexa, a single mom, just looking for a quiet, relaxing vacation. The two are instantly drawn to each other but both are fighting the attraction. This is a great story that will keep the reader entertained until the very last word.

I received this ARC from the author but all thoughts and feelings are my own.

[Busy Bumble Bee Book Reviews · Rating 4 out of 5]

So I have to say I thought the next book in this series was going to be Beau's. Not sure why I thought his was next, but I was surprised to see it was Hayes book.

Let's start with Hayes. He's a man that has many demons sitting on his shoulders. He's a man who has come home and has his brothers there for him. He's a man though that won't open up to his family. I thought he was sweet, kind, and caring.

I wanted to like Alexa. And its not that I didn't like her, I did in a way. I thought she was a strong woman who had found a way to take care of herself and her son after losing her husband.

I thought this book was enjoyable. I loved that Hayes finally got his story and his HEA. I can't wait for Beau's story.

I'm giving this book 4 Stars out of 5!!!!

***I received an ARC of this book for my honest review***

[Dj · Rating 4 out of 5]

Single mom and widower Alexa Rodriguez's first child-free vacation in years is supposed to be low-key. But then she meets brooding Texas (rancher/ex-Army Sharpshooter) Hayes Elliott. Heir to an empire and suffering deep emotional pain from surviving and losing all of his men, he tries to push her away--even as she craves his touch. And when a storm strands them together, their undeniable chemistry explodes. Now Alexa finds herself introducing Hayes to her precious son Mason, imagining herself in Hayes's world and keeping a secret, her deceased husband was his best friend, and that could destroy everything...

[Kristy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another excellent story from Jules Bennett. In Taming the Texan (Who names these books?) you meet Hayes, the ex-Army soldier who comes home to reset his life after the atrocities of being in war. Alexa, single-mom extraordinaire, stays at the B&B for a weekend retreat alone. Of course, she never even gets to stay at the B&B because of the popup storm during their horseback ride. Alexa was almost too perfect at reading what Hayes needed to deal with the PTSD, but in the end Hayes is able to release the anxiety enough to pursue Alexa for their HEA.

[Linda · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received an ARC of this book which I voluntarily reviewed.
The latest offering in the Rancher's Heirs series, Taming the Texan is the story of Hayes Elliott and single mom Alexa Rodriguez. Hayes has just left the Army suffering from PTSD and has come home to his family's ranch to heal. A chance meeting with Alexa at the stables leads to a weekend destined to change both their lives.
It's some time now since I read the last book in this series but Jules Bennett manages to get you right back into things. This has been my favourite of a lovely series.

[Monica Cardoza · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a great short read that I truly enjoyed.  I loved the characters and I can't wait to read the first two books in this series.  Alexa ad Hayes were perfect for each other.  I loved the small twist that this story had and didn't see it coming.  They were attracted to each other from the moment that they laid eyes on each other.  They had great chemistry and I loved how they played this cat and mouse game and in the end they both did the right thing.   
 
Received ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an Honest Review 

[Kathleen Booker · Rating 4 out of 5]

Alexa looses her husbavn and discovers she is pregnant a week later. Two years later, her best friend sends her to a B & B for mini vacation and she ends up stranded with hot cowboy in storm. They fall into bed and she learns later that he was her dead husband's best friend in school. He was away in war and his fiance cheated on him with his CO so he has problem with trust.
After he learns who she is he walks away from her but neither of them can stay away. He goes to visit her and falls in love with her little boy. Thank goodness, they manage to find their way back to each other.

[Lesley · Rating 4 out of 5]

Alexa and Hayes have a chance meeting and then end up stuck together in a rain storm. Hayes suffers from PTSD and doesn’t like letting people close, but Alexa breaks through his barriers.

The author does a great job of addressing PTSD and Hayes’ issues and makes the romance believable despite the whirlwind aspect of the story.

Great addition to the Elliott brother series and can be read as a standalone. I received a review copy from the author.

[Cheryl · Rating 4 out of 5]

Continuing series about the Elliott brothers. This story has us meeting Hayes a returning military guy who lost a lot of buddies and suffers from PTSD. He has used the ranch has his outlet. He avoids everyone and his content until he meets single mom and widow Alexa. She is at Hayes’ brother and sister in laws BAndB for her first vacation alone. A storm hits they are forced together and everything changes for the two of them!

[Christina Reed · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed Alexa and Hayes’ story. Neither one of them was looking for the love they found and they both fought it, but they eventually accepted it. This is the third book in this series and it was nice to revisit the other couples. I also loved the set up for the next book. This was a cute book and a quick read.

[Collyn · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love books w/ a “trapped in a storm” setting and this one didn’t fail me. One of the quickest reads I’ve found lately, I couldn’t put it down. Completely believable and the characters were very well developed. 5 stars for Sure!

[Lindsay Thompson-Sublett · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book starts right away and keeps going till then end. I really enjoyed their story. I would recommend this book and series. After reading this book, I am BEYOND ready for Beau’s book. Can’t wait!

[Camille · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was amazing!! Hayes and Alexa are incredible together. They get stranded together after a horse ride because of a really nasty rain storm. Neither is able to forget about their experience together and their chemistry. Love conquers all!

[Brandi · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love this book as much as I loved this series. Nothing better than a woman who can heal or calm a man in need of it.

I recommend this series to everyone!!

[Veda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Totally enjoyed this book. Now to read about the rest of the family.

[Terri Hebert · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love Hayes & Alexa's story !!! The storyline and characters were so wonderful.

[Emily · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great read. read it in 2 days

[Perdani Budiarti · Rating 3 out of 5]

Bacaan ringan saat kecepatan baca menurun drastis.

Uhn, standar cerita Harlequin pada umumnya sih, tapi tentu saja dengan latar cerita dan penokohan yang harus berbeda.

3*/5