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Texas Legacy #2
Texas Desire
Cade Barret has lost everything and if he doesn’t find help soon, he’ll lose his life as well. Not only must he escape nearly everyone who has a gun, he has to force himself to continue forward for a special objective. His mission is personal, and his desire for revenge is great. For him, though, getting back what has been taken from him is worth all of the danger to his life.
Olivia Torres is a strong, determined woman who has taken it upon herself to care for her family after her parents were murdered by the Mexican Army. Her calm demeanor and determination make her an incredible spy for the Texian Army during the Texas Revolution. Yet, when a stranger stumbles into the Torres home in the middle of the night, about to die from his wounds, Olivia is faced with a decision that will put more than just her family at risk.
Fighting for their very lives, Cade and Olivia become unlikely allies. Olivia Torres lives a life built around rules of propriety, but her attraction to Cade will put every one of her rules to the test.
Olivia Torres is a strong, determined woman who has taken it upon herself to care for her family after her parents were murdered by the Mexican Army. Her calm demeanor and determination make her an incredible spy for the Texian Army during the Texas Revolution. Yet, when a stranger stumbles into the Torres home in the middle of the night, about to die from his wounds, Olivia is faced with a decision that will put more than just her family at risk.
Fighting for their very lives, Cade and Olivia become unlikely allies. Olivia Torres lives a life built around rules of propriety, but her attraction to Cade will put every one of her rules to the test.
338 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 1, 2017
812 people are currently reading
242 people want to read
About the author
Holly Castillo
10 books23 followersHolly grew up spending many lazy summer days racing her horses bareback in the Texas sun. But whenever Holly wasn't riding her horses or competing in horse shows, she was found with pen and paper in hand, writing out romantic love stories about Texas Heroes.
Today, Holly lives in a small community just south of San Antonio, with her husband and two children. On the family's ranch, surrounded by cattle during the day and hearing the howl of coyotes by night, Holly has endless inspiration for her writing. Her Texas Legacy series follows the adventures of a family during the Texas Revolution and subsequent years, and her new Romantic Suspense Series, Texas Navy SEALs, launches in July, 2019.
Today, Holly lives in a small community just south of San Antonio, with her husband and two children. On the family's ranch, surrounded by cattle during the day and hearing the howl of coyotes by night, Holly has endless inspiration for her writing. Her Texas Legacy series follows the adventures of a family during the Texas Revolution and subsequent years, and her new Romantic Suspense Series, Texas Navy SEALs, launches in July, 2019.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews
November 5, 2018
Dnf. I have a major pet peeve when it comes to any story I am reading. I can not stand it when some action happens in a book then a character goes and explains that action, that thing we already read, word for word to another character. Authors please stop doing this. I don’t know if they’re trying to boost word count or what but it is seriously annoying.
For example, in this story we’ll read about the heroine getting attacked by soldiers, then just a page later she is describing the attack we just read about in detail to the hero. So we have to read it twice within just a few pages. This happens with dreams. The heroine has nightmares and it’s the same dream written out over and over. This sort of thing happens repeatedly throughout the book. The heroine goes out, something happens, she comes back to the hero and he sees she’s upset and says “tell me what happened.” And I groan because I know they are about to rehash the thing I just read.
This is also coupled with another pet peeve where we have the heroine everyone thinks and says is beautiful but she keeps saying how no man has ever wanted her, no man has ever called her beautiful, even though literally every man in the book is calling her beautiful, if they aren’t straight trying to rip her clothes off.
I gave up on this book halfway through because I just couldn’t take it anymore.
For example, in this story we’ll read about the heroine getting attacked by soldiers, then just a page later she is describing the attack we just read about in detail to the hero. So we have to read it twice within just a few pages. This happens with dreams. The heroine has nightmares and it’s the same dream written out over and over. This sort of thing happens repeatedly throughout the book. The heroine goes out, something happens, she comes back to the hero and he sees she’s upset and says “tell me what happened.” And I groan because I know they are about to rehash the thing I just read.
This is also coupled with another pet peeve where we have the heroine everyone thinks and says is beautiful but she keeps saying how no man has ever wanted her, no man has ever called her beautiful, even though literally every man in the book is calling her beautiful, if they aren’t straight trying to rip her clothes off.
I gave up on this book halfway through because I just couldn’t take it anymore.
May 10, 2018
I would say this gets 3 1/2 stars. I enjoyed reading it and getting to know the characters. I wouldn't mind reading it again but I wouldn't really search it out. There were plenty of emotions, suspense, tons of courage and strength, tense moments, a little action, great personalities, this was written well and had a perfect HEA. I would like to read the rest of the characters stories too. This kinda lures you in slowly, but it stills grips. There were some typos and such, but overall they didn't really bother me (just a few). Good for reading on a sunny hammock day or snuggled in from the cold. Enjoy
November 9, 2020
Compellig
This is a very compelling book. It drew me in and held my attention from the beginning. Texas has a violent beginning. The Texans had to fight the Comanchees and the Mexicans, the Comanches had to fight the Texans and the Mexicans. The Mexicans had to fight the Texans and the Comanches. It was non stop battles. This love story is as turbulent as the battle for independence.
This is a very compelling book. It drew me in and held my attention from the beginning. Texas has a violent beginning. The Texans had to fight the Comanchees and the Mexicans, the Comanches had to fight the Texans and the Mexicans. The Mexicans had to fight the Texans and the Comanches. It was non stop battles. This love story is as turbulent as the battle for independence.
April 29, 2018
Texas
Was a an interesting book well written but was a bit long getting in to the interesting parts was rather hard to keep up with what the reasons were for the solider to be alone and so severely beaten, how the family lived all and all it was a story difference in how the wars were fought but not why.
Was a an interesting book well written but was a bit long getting in to the interesting parts was rather hard to keep up with what the reasons were for the solider to be alone and so severely beaten, how the family lived all and all it was a story difference in how the wars were fought but not why.
April 26, 2018
Very entertaining!
This was a wonderful story that I enjoyed thoroughly. It had adventures, love and some despicable characters but Olivia and Cafe were the heart and soul of the story. It was longer than it needed to be and redundant in several places but otherwise very good.
This was a wonderful story that I enjoyed thoroughly. It had adventures, love and some despicable characters but Olivia and Cafe were the heart and soul of the story. It was longer than it needed to be and redundant in several places but otherwise very good.
April 27, 2018
What a great read
Follow Cade and Olivia through the time of the Alamo and beyond. Loved the sweetness of this love story, the tension of living in fear of Mexican Army, the ruthlessness of their soldiers. Trying to save Cade's life, then his daughter's and Olivia's!
Follow Cade and Olivia through the time of the Alamo and beyond. Loved the sweetness of this love story, the tension of living in fear of Mexican Army, the ruthlessness of their soldiers. Trying to save Cade's life, then his daughter's and Olivia's!
May 9, 2018
Texas Desire
I give this a 5 star rating. I loved the story, with its mix of love and thrills it kept my interest. With the Alamo in the background as a part of the story, and Olivia's many escapades it's a good read.
I give this a 5 star rating. I loved the story, with its mix of love and thrills it kept my interest. With the Alamo in the background as a part of the story, and Olivia's many escapades it's a good read.
July 16, 2018
A good Texas story
Takes place during a monumental time in Texas history. A good read for a road trip or by the pool. Very strong wilted women who proves she can survive and take care of the man she loves.
Takes place during a monumental time in Texas history. A good read for a road trip or by the pool. Very strong wilted women who proves she can survive and take care of the man she loves.
August 15, 2018
Not worth the time
I got about 1/3 of the way through this waiting for the plot to develop when I realized this is Sexually Damaged Girl Becomes Whole Again, a storyline based on physical desire and not much else. I have better things to do with my time.
I got about 1/3 of the way through this waiting for the plot to develop when I realized this is Sexually Damaged Girl Becomes Whole Again, a storyline based on physical desire and not much else. I have better things to do with my time.
August 6, 2019
Enjoyable
A glimpse of the turmoil surrounding the fight for freedom in Texas. Although there were a couple slipups... The mule replaced by horses turned back to a mule then a horse ... Revelry instead of reveille... Not everyone inside the Alamo died.
A glimpse of the turmoil surrounding the fight for freedom in Texas. Although there were a couple slipups... The mule replaced by horses turned back to a mule then a horse ... Revelry instead of reveille... Not everyone inside the Alamo died.
July 26, 2020
The Strange Gentleman
When Cade sought refuge in her home, Olive fought to save his life and heal him from his wounds. He always after the gentleman and she couldn't help calling in love with him.
When Cade sought refuge in her home, Olive fought to save his life and heal him from his wounds. He always after the gentleman and she couldn't help calling in love with him.
April 22, 2018
Enjoyed reading.
Enjoyed reading this book. Characters were dimensional ,normal people. Enjoy reading with the historical history inserts for your enjoyment. Short
Enjoyed reading this book. Characters were dimensional ,normal people. Enjoy reading with the historical history inserts for your enjoyment. Short
April 22, 2018
Had me at the first sentence.
Captured me in the very beginning. Not many stories do that. Lots of historic details, too much sex. Great writting, thanks.
Captured me in the very beginning. Not many stories do that. Lots of historic details, too much sex. Great writting, thanks.
April 28, 2018
Fabulous book.
Great job of writing. Intrigue, war battles, politics, family and romance. What else would you want? It's a true adventure.
Great job of writing. Intrigue, war battles, politics, family and romance. What else would you want? It's a true adventure.
May 8, 2018
Great story.
Great story line and love the historical addition. Love, danger, heartbreak, and excitement. The characters were great and the ending perfect.
Great story line and love the historical addition. Love, danger, heartbreak, and excitement. The characters were great and the ending perfect.
May 10, 2018
Texas Desire
I loved this story, I recommend everyone to this book, I look forward to reading more of her books. Kattie
I loved this story, I recommend everyone to this book, I look forward to reading more of her books. Kattie
June 15, 2018
Great book
Enjoyed reading this love story set in a war setting of Texas and fighting for freedom from Mexican tyranny and Gore.
Enjoyed reading this love story set in a war setting of Texas and fighting for freedom from Mexican tyranny and Gore.
February 2, 2019
Loved it!
Well written. Lots and lots of adventure. Holds your interest from the very beginning. Throughly enjoyed this story start to end!
Well written. Lots and lots of adventure. Holds your interest from the very beginning. Throughly enjoyed this story start to end!
July 30, 2019
I enjoyed reading this book.
February 18, 2020
An enjoyable historical.
I liked this book. It had a good story and characters. I haven't read many books in this part of history and I liked learning more about the Alamo and the conflict before and after that.
There is some sexual situations, but they don't actually do the act and it's not very explicit. There are some almost rape scenes that could be triggers for some readers.
And there were quite a few editing mistakes.
I liked this book. It had a good story and characters. I haven't read many books in this part of history and I liked learning more about the Alamo and the conflict before and after that.
There is some sexual situations, but they don't actually do the act and it's not very explicit. There are some almost rape scenes that could be triggers for some readers.
And there were quite a few editing mistakes.
May 13, 2020
Steamy but clean
Texas Desire left a lot to imagine which made it a NICE read. Will be reading more of this author's books.
Texas Desire left a lot to imagine which made it a NICE read. Will be reading more of this author's books.
July 30, 2020
Good read!
Interesting story with great characters. The author 's ability to write well allows you to experience the emotions of the characters.
Interesting story with great characters. The author 's ability to write well allows you to experience the emotions of the characters.
August 8, 2020
Remember the Alamo
Nice combo of adventure, love affair and Texas history.
Throw in a strong female and unsavory males around every corner
Nice combo of adventure, love affair and Texas history.
Throw in a strong female and unsavory males around every corner
January 16, 2021
How fortunate these two were able to stay so well hidden just off a well-travelled trail.
Read
March 2, 2022DNF @39%
September 3, 2018
It is a great book to read
August 5, 2017
Reviewed at Keeper Bookshelf
Most of what I know about the fight for freedom in Texas comes from history books.. and I also admit that those studies were along, long ago. Following the Texas Legacy series has given me a new sense of wonder about a part of my own country’s development, it’s far reaching battles for freedom in so many areas of life. So while my true historical romance reading is usually of the Regency time period, I’ve recently been following more of I suppose it would be the Western Historical Romance sub-genre. I preface this review like this because I’d like those readers who wouldn’t normally reach for an America’s history type of romance to know that I understand, and you’ll really enjoy this series if you give it a chance. Because behind every movement for freedom are people, ordinary every day people… and that is what you’ll be reading about in Texas Desire.
I was completely caught up in Olivia and Cade’s romance. The dangers they faced, the things they witnessed are riveting and fast paced. With so much on the line for her family, Olivia took a chance on helping a stranger. A man bent on revenge, in desperate need of finding someone important in his life and doing whatever is necessary to survive. It wasn’t a difficult stretch to put myself alongside of Cade and Olivia as they faced their common enemy or as they fell in love against all odds. Olivia and her family have so much to lose if the wrong people discover what they’re really doing. Trusting Cade is a risk, but one that Olivia is willing to take.
I found both Cade and Olivia to be strong characters, focused on what is important and willing to do anything necessary for those they love, for the independence that is as necessary as breath or for each other. Yes, I’m being vague on purpose for this is a story that you should read firsthand to get the full impact and enjoyment… not another reader’s thoughts. Yet, if you enjoy Historical Romance than I have no doubt that you would enjoy Texas Desire or this entire series. You’ll be transported back in time with interesting characters, real events and be easily caught up in the fight for freedom along with these characters.
*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.*
Most of what I know about the fight for freedom in Texas comes from history books.. and I also admit that those studies were along, long ago. Following the Texas Legacy series has given me a new sense of wonder about a part of my own country’s development, it’s far reaching battles for freedom in so many areas of life. So while my true historical romance reading is usually of the Regency time period, I’ve recently been following more of I suppose it would be the Western Historical Romance sub-genre. I preface this review like this because I’d like those readers who wouldn’t normally reach for an America’s history type of romance to know that I understand, and you’ll really enjoy this series if you give it a chance. Because behind every movement for freedom are people, ordinary every day people… and that is what you’ll be reading about in Texas Desire.
I was completely caught up in Olivia and Cade’s romance. The dangers they faced, the things they witnessed are riveting and fast paced. With so much on the line for her family, Olivia took a chance on helping a stranger. A man bent on revenge, in desperate need of finding someone important in his life and doing whatever is necessary to survive. It wasn’t a difficult stretch to put myself alongside of Cade and Olivia as they faced their common enemy or as they fell in love against all odds. Olivia and her family have so much to lose if the wrong people discover what they’re really doing. Trusting Cade is a risk, but one that Olivia is willing to take.
I found both Cade and Olivia to be strong characters, focused on what is important and willing to do anything necessary for those they love, for the independence that is as necessary as breath or for each other. Yes, I’m being vague on purpose for this is a story that you should read firsthand to get the full impact and enjoyment… not another reader’s thoughts. Yet, if you enjoy Historical Romance than I have no doubt that you would enjoy Texas Desire or this entire series. You’ll be transported back in time with interesting characters, real events and be easily caught up in the fight for freedom along with these characters.
*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.*
August 1, 2017
Texas Desire by Holly Castillo (part of her continued fictional writing of the people involved in the battle for Texas’s freedom) is first-rate. As I stated in the review of the first book in the series, Texas Conquest I have only a basic knowledge of Texas history so these stories are as enlightening as there are entertaining. Texas Desire is an engrossing well-written story with vivid descriptions of the struggles that these characters endured.
I love the strong heroic women that Ms. Castillo gives us in this series. As in all wars, the dangers are incredible for civilians which Olivia Torres knows all too well. Her determination, self-resilience and love of her family are extremely admirable. Cade Barret is also a man of integrity. His search for the lost is heart wrenching but also heart-warming at the conclusion. The good, the bad, the wicked and the Godly are all here in this wonderful story. Historical romance fans will LOVE it, and those of us who aren’t will become a fan after reading Texas Desire.
An ARC of the book was given to me by the publisher through Net Galley.
I love the strong heroic women that Ms. Castillo gives us in this series. As in all wars, the dangers are incredible for civilians which Olivia Torres knows all too well. Her determination, self-resilience and love of her family are extremely admirable. Cade Barret is also a man of integrity. His search for the lost is heart wrenching but also heart-warming at the conclusion. The good, the bad, the wicked and the Godly are all here in this wonderful story. Historical romance fans will LOVE it, and those of us who aren’t will become a fan after reading Texas Desire.
An ARC of the book was given to me by the publisher through Net Galley.
July 21, 2017
As the battle for Texas’s freedom wages on Olivia Torres and her sisters continue to do everything can to help the cause. One night Olivia is awoken from her slumber by a noise that alerts her that someone besides her family is in her home. As Olivia investigates she finds a man in their dining room more dead than alive asking for help. The noise also sent her sister to investigate and when they both realize that he is bleeding they move him to the hidden cellar just as Santa Anna’s soldiers appear looking for their mystery man. Cade Barret is a man on a mission and after witnessing one of the most heinous crimes a man is forced to witness he is trying to find his beloved Bella who is traveling with the enemy. “Texas Desire” is Holly Castillo’s second novel set within the backdrop of the battle of the Alamo, and it is a sweeping historical novel that fills the reader with a deep emotion of the love story between Olivia and Cade. It is a must read for historical fiction fans. I was given an advanced copy of this book, and all of the opinions expressed in this review are my own.
August 24, 2017
Olivia Torres is determined to help Texas gain its freedom from Mexico. When Cade Barret shows up in need of help and running from the Mexican Army, she helps him, despite her misgivings. Cade has been through hell and needs help getting on his feet. He doesn't understand why Olivia has been called "Fria" but knows he can't get too close to her. He has done things he isn't proud of and still has more he needs to do.
Castillo has created two strong characters that need to learn to work together and to trust. Both have a lot to lose, but, ultimately, more to gain. The story was gripping and the addition of the historical aspect made me hate to put it down for any reason. I can't wait to find out what happens next with the Torres family and Texas.
**I received an Advanced Copy from the Publisher via NetGalley. My opinions are my own and freely given.
Castillo has created two strong characters that need to learn to work together and to trust. Both have a lot to lose, but, ultimately, more to gain. The story was gripping and the addition of the historical aspect made me hate to put it down for any reason. I can't wait to find out what happens next with the Torres family and Texas.
**I received an Advanced Copy from the Publisher via NetGalley. My opinions are my own and freely given.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews