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Bad Boys of Last Stand #1
Homecoming for the Cowboy
Will he break a promise or break her heart?
Colt Vance owes everything he is to the Martin family, which is why he’s stayed far, far away for years. But now that Fritz Martin has asked him a favor, he’s back in Last Stand facing the one temptation he can’t ever give into: his mentor’s middle daughter.
Sadie Martin doesn’t like Colt Vance, or so she’s told herself for years. He’s far too charming and has her father wrapped around his finger. But Sadie doesn’t have a choice except to work with Colt to save her beloved goat farm.
Working together tests Colt’s resolve when it comes to his attraction to Sadie, and Sadie comes to realize she doesn’t just enjoy Colt’s company, she craves it. But Colt can’t break the promise he made to Fritz years ago. Can one tenacious farm girl convince this stubborn cowboy love is always the answer to any problem?
Colt Vance owes everything he is to the Martin family, which is why he’s stayed far, far away for years. But now that Fritz Martin has asked him a favor, he’s back in Last Stand facing the one temptation he can’t ever give into: his mentor’s middle daughter.
Sadie Martin doesn’t like Colt Vance, or so she’s told herself for years. He’s far too charming and has her father wrapped around his finger. But Sadie doesn’t have a choice except to work with Colt to save her beloved goat farm.
Working together tests Colt’s resolve when it comes to his attraction to Sadie, and Sadie comes to realize she doesn’t just enjoy Colt’s company, she craves it. But Colt can’t break the promise he made to Fritz years ago. Can one tenacious farm girl convince this stubborn cowboy love is always the answer to any problem?
202 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 16, 2019
658 people are currently reading
310 people want to read
About the author
Nicole Helm
298 books500 followersNicole Helm is the national bestselling author of fast-paced romantic suspense for Harlequin Intrigue and down-to-earth contemporary romance. Her Intrigues routinely land on the Publishers Weekly Bestseller list, and she’s received starred PW reviews for her contemporary romances. She’s written over 75 books, known for their emotional depth and happily ever afters.
Nicole also writes with Megan Crane/Caitlin Crews as Hazel Beck writing the Witchlore series, which began with SMALL TOWN, BIG MAGIC in 2022.
In her spare time, Nicole loves losing herself in genealogy research, watching Cardinals baseball, and hiking with her family. She lives in Missouri with her husband and two sons.
You can contact her via email: Nicole@nicolehelm.com
You can sign up for Nicole’s monthly newsletter at http://eepurl.com/V973n
Nicole also writes with Megan Crane/Caitlin Crews as Hazel Beck writing the Witchlore series, which began with SMALL TOWN, BIG MAGIC in 2022.
In her spare time, Nicole loves losing herself in genealogy research, watching Cardinals baseball, and hiking with her family. She lives in Missouri with her husband and two sons.
You can contact her via email: Nicole@nicolehelm.com
You can sign up for Nicole’s monthly newsletter at http://eepurl.com/V973n
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 71 reviews
April 7, 2019
I voluntarily read and reviewed an copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Thanks to the author for providing a copy of this book.
Didn't like it: coward hero, weak dormat heroine.
This story did have a good potential, but those bad MCs didn't work out for me.
Will look for more books from this series
Thanks to the author for providing a copy of this book.
Didn't like it: coward hero, weak dormat heroine.
This story did have a good potential, but those bad MCs didn't work out for me.
Will look for more books from this series
June 21, 2020
FREE today (June 21, 2020) on Amazon.
- Received an Advance Reader Copy in exchange for a fair review -
“Homecoming for the Cowboy”, by Nicole Helm, is an enjoyable story, but not so compelling for me as usually happens with this author’s work.
Colt and Sadie are likeable characters, and a group of interesting supporting characters, linked in a web of strong relationships and affections, made me enjoy the story.
Hero and heroine are trying to avoid a long lasting crush and attraction; as a matter of fact, the first half of the story is mainly about avoidance, “attraction but not action”, until Sadie, at last, in an epiphany moment, decides it’s time to change.
Colt is a troubled, honorable man, trying to keep a promise (the fact the conflict arises mostly from said promise felt a bit weak for me); as a man with lots of baggage and self-worth issues he’s an example of the tortured hero Nicole Helm creates so well.
- Received an Advance Reader Copy in exchange for a fair review -
“Homecoming for the Cowboy”, by Nicole Helm, is an enjoyable story, but not so compelling for me as usually happens with this author’s work.
Colt and Sadie are likeable characters, and a group of interesting supporting characters, linked in a web of strong relationships and affections, made me enjoy the story.
Hero and heroine are trying to avoid a long lasting crush and attraction; as a matter of fact, the first half of the story is mainly about avoidance, “attraction but not action”, until Sadie, at last, in an epiphany moment, decides it’s time to change.
Colt is a troubled, honorable man, trying to keep a promise (the fact the conflict arises mostly from said promise felt a bit weak for me); as a man with lots of baggage and self-worth issues he’s an example of the tortured hero Nicole Helm creates so well.
March 20, 2019
“ARC provided in exchange for an honest review”
The H was an orphan kid but h’s parents took him in. So he is forever obliged to them.
He loves the h but her father has warned him that his daughters are off limits. So he tries to stay away from her for years.
I could totally understand the H’s dilemma. He loves the h but he can’t betray her father’s trust. So he pushes her away.
This book is sweet and has a HEA. But bored me a lot.
The H was an orphan kid but h’s parents took him in. So he is forever obliged to them.
He loves the h but her father has warned him that his daughters are off limits. So he tries to stay away from her for years.
I could totally understand the H’s dilemma. He loves the h but he can’t betray her father’s trust. So he pushes her away.
This book is sweet and has a HEA. But bored me a lot.
Want to read
June 22, 2020🎁 FREE on Amazon today (6/22/2020)! 🎁
May 26, 2019
Good start to the new series. Colt is one of three boys with troubled childhoods that Fritz Martin and his wife Susannah took into their home and raised along with their three daughters. Colt was grateful for the opportunity and determined to prove his worth. He eventually left the farm and made a name and a fortune for himself in real estate. When Fritz asked Colt to come home and help save the farm, he did so, but with deep reservations. As a teen, Colt promised Fritz he would "stay away from his daughters." That promise became harder to keep, as Colt was drawn to Sadie until he left the farm to avoid the temptation. Now he's back and afraid that he won't be able to keep his long-ago promise.
Sadie is Fritz's middle daughter and the one most like him. She loves the farm and her goats and her father. She is the one that Fritz has depended on to "do the right thing," i.e. follow his lead and instructions. She knows the farm is in trouble, but she can't get a straight answer from her father, and her ideas to help are ignored. Fritz's antiquated ideas on the roles of women and men frustrate her to no end. When Colt suddenly returns to partner with Fritz, Sadie is furious. She and Colt have butted heads since they've known each other and she wants nothing to do with him.
I enjoyed the development of the relationship between Colt and Sadie. Colt has a head start because he already knows he has feelings for her. Sadie is disturbed by the feelings that Colt's return stirs up in her and initially increases her antagonism toward him. It doesn't take long for her to realize that she's going to have to adjust her attitude to have a successful work relationship with him. Once she lets go of the anger, she discovers that all those roiled up emotions were caused by her attraction to him. There are obstacles to overcome, mainly Colt's belief that he isn't worthy of her and his reluctance to break his promise. I loved Sadie's reaction to that promise and her determination to confront Fritz with their intentions. An unexpected complication arose and caused some more angst on Colt's part. I ached for Colt and his belief that he is at fault and loved Sadie's efforts to break through his walls. Though Fritz eventually sees the light, I'm not entirely convinced that he's changed. I liked the ending though it felt a little anti-climactic after all the problems that came before it.
Sadie is Fritz's middle daughter and the one most like him. She loves the farm and her goats and her father. She is the one that Fritz has depended on to "do the right thing," i.e. follow his lead and instructions. She knows the farm is in trouble, but she can't get a straight answer from her father, and her ideas to help are ignored. Fritz's antiquated ideas on the roles of women and men frustrate her to no end. When Colt suddenly returns to partner with Fritz, Sadie is furious. She and Colt have butted heads since they've known each other and she wants nothing to do with him.
I enjoyed the development of the relationship between Colt and Sadie. Colt has a head start because he already knows he has feelings for her. Sadie is disturbed by the feelings that Colt's return stirs up in her and initially increases her antagonism toward him. It doesn't take long for her to realize that she's going to have to adjust her attitude to have a successful work relationship with him. Once she lets go of the anger, she discovers that all those roiled up emotions were caused by her attraction to him. There are obstacles to overcome, mainly Colt's belief that he isn't worthy of her and his reluctance to break his promise. I loved Sadie's reaction to that promise and her determination to confront Fritz with their intentions. An unexpected complication arose and caused some more angst on Colt's part. I ached for Colt and his belief that he is at fault and loved Sadie's efforts to break through his walls. Though Fritz eventually sees the light, I'm not entirely convinced that he's changed. I liked the ending though it felt a little anti-climactic after all the problems that came before it.
May 10, 2019
Colt Vance is back home after years away. He's always butt heads with Sadie Martin and being back around her is more of the same but in reality he's been attracted to her forever but he made a promise to her father to never touch her. Sadie always thought Colt had the approval from her dad that she wanted for herself. He could do no wrong. Things aren't always what they seem. The longer Colt and Sadie are around each other butting heads the more they realize they are attracted to each other. This is the first time I have read this author and i found i really enjoyed the story. The hero is not shown as a tough man's man at times but it's nice to see a guy be vulnerable. He had some horrible stuff happen to him growing up and he let that fester in him for years. He never had a real female influence in his life growing up and that shows. There were a few eye rolling moments for me but i liked the family and and enjoyed the relationships between the characters. I'm interested in seeing what happens next in this series.
April 18, 2019
This was a new to me author but I decided to give it a chance since I normally really enjoy cowboy romances. However, while I think this book had potential I had trouble connecting with the characters in any way. Frankly, at times I didn't even like them which made it hard to hope they would work thinks out. The entire plot of the story was that Sadie's father who took in trouble Colt as a teenager basically forbid Colt from ever getting involved with Sadie. Basically Colt never wanted to break that promise but yet he couldn't stay away from Sadie. Of course, even while he was around Sadie he never reveals her feelings and she does the same. As a result, I never really saw any chemistry between the characters but suddenly they are a couple. Overall just didn't work for me.
May 16, 2019
Years ago, Fritz Martin and his wife took in three troubled boys to raise alongside their three daughters. After his wife died, Fritz did his best to raise six children and keep the family farm going. Now the kids are grown, the farm is struggling, and Colt Vance comes back home to help the man who gave him, the son of the town drunk, the chance at a future and so much more. That means Colt will have to deal with Sadie, who handles the farm's daily operations, and they mix about as well as oil and water. But Colt’s arrogance and Sadie's prickliness only mask the feelings they’ve had for each other for years. As far as Colt is concerned, the feelings are irrelevant. He promised Fritz long ago he would stay away from his daughters, and Colt is sure there's no way Sadie would want anything to do with a Vance.
If you’ve not yet met Helm’s cowboys, you’re really missing out! She creates a warm, welcoming setting, strong, unbreakable family bonds, heroes with huge hearts who are a bit vulnerable, and strong, tenacious, loving heroines. While Colt thinks he's unworthy, he has a lot of redeeming qualities, and Helm strikes the perfect balance so his insecurities are endearing, his growth is believable, and the reader is cheering him on each step of the way. Sadie isn’t without her faults, but she's also realistic and admirable, and I couldn’t help but love her. If you’ve enjoyed cowboys from Carolyn Brown, Maisey Yates and Sara Richardson, you’ll love this new series by Nicole Helm!
*I reviewed an advance copy of this book freely and voluntarily, having made no commitment to provide a review and receiving no compensation of any kind from any source for this review.
If you’ve not yet met Helm’s cowboys, you’re really missing out! She creates a warm, welcoming setting, strong, unbreakable family bonds, heroes with huge hearts who are a bit vulnerable, and strong, tenacious, loving heroines. While Colt thinks he's unworthy, he has a lot of redeeming qualities, and Helm strikes the perfect balance so his insecurities are endearing, his growth is believable, and the reader is cheering him on each step of the way. Sadie isn’t without her faults, but she's also realistic and admirable, and I couldn’t help but love her. If you’ve enjoyed cowboys from Carolyn Brown, Maisey Yates and Sara Richardson, you’ll love this new series by Nicole Helm!
*I reviewed an advance copy of this book freely and voluntarily, having made no commitment to provide a review and receiving no compensation of any kind from any source for this review.
April 1, 2019
Homecoming for the Cowboy is a sweet romance. I love books with cowboys. Colt and Sadie try to fight their attraction, but being back together on the ranch is a temptation they find hard to deny. Nicole Helm writes a short story that will leave you with a smile.
July 27, 2019
Homecoming for the Cowboy is the first title in the Bad Boys of Last Stand series, and in the past, I've generally enjoyed Ms. Helm's novels, but while this title and series concept sounded good, and was a fairly enjoyable read, I had some issues with it from the beginning, and, in the end, the best I could give this novel is a 3-star rating, it was just an okay read.
My first issue is the title. Colt Vance is the leading male character in this novel, and he's certainly not a cowboy. He left the town of Last Stand and the Martin Family Goat Farm 10 years earlier, and made his fortune beginning with a large win at a local casino, which he turned into a successful business, building, renovating and eventually flipping houses--hardly a cowboy enterprise, although it is mentioned later in the novel that he eventually he had plans to raise cattle on the land he inherited from his violently abusive, alcoholic father, land which adjoins the Goat Farm. I'm thinking that "Colt's Homecoming" would have been a better title choice.
Fritz Martin, current owner of the goat farm, and his now deceased wife, took in Colt and two other troubled and abused teenage boys--and the boys bonded as brothers under their care. The Martins treated all 3 boys as family, but Fritz took the boys aside early on and made them promise to work hard, be honest with him, and finally, to stay away from his three daughters. It was a promise Colt took very seriously, because as soon as he realized his attraction to one of them, Sadie, the middle daughter, Colt packed up, moved away and stayed gone for a decade. He would have stayed gone for good had he not heard from Fritz, and when he learned that Fritz and the farm were deeply in debt and in danger of losing the land that had been in his family for generations, Colt, now wealthy, offered to lend Fritz the money he needed, but, unbeknownst to anyone other than Sadie, Fritz had heart-related issues, and so he accepted Colt's money on the condition that he and Colt would become 50/50 partners in the ranch--but how was Colt going to do that and stay away from Sadie?
Sadie is a born and bred farm girl at heart. It was her idea was to turn her goat milk and cheese operation into a tourist destination to save the farm, but her father would never show her the books or admit to their dire financial status, didn't tell her how much money Colt has invested in the farm, and she and Colt had had an ongoing adversarial snark battle going on from the day he arrived at the Morgan's as an angry, difficult, abused and troubled teenager. Sadie always felt that while she knew her father loved her and her sisters, he had a much better relationship with the 3 angst-ridden boys his wife brought home, and had, in fact, promised his wife on her deathbed, that he would raise and love the boys as she did. He kept that promise. What neither her father nor Colt knew was that Sadie was attracted to Colt, although being so sheltered and spending all her time with her goats, she didn't date, and had only had sex once in order to lose her virginity. Since it wasn't a great experience for her, she couldn't have cared less about repeating it, but then handsome, charming, Colt arrived and suddenly she didn't understand what she was feeling for him, and vacillated from annoyance with his being there, outrage at now being forced to work with him, distrust of his motives for returning, irritation at his charm and good looks, and she took a long time to recognize that she had been and still was attracted to him--but what about Colt's promise to steer clear of the Martin daughters?
Both main characters had a lot of issues with self-esteem, Colt always felt indebted to Fritz Martin, and also had been made to feel so worthless by his own father that he couldn't accept that he was respected, and considered a full member of the Martin family, and worthy of their love. Sadie too had issues with self-esteem, and is completely oblivious to her own good looks, and her work ethic--all she knows is that she loves the farm and her goats, and hates the changes that are happening all around her since Colt's return.
So far, I liked the premise and promise of this novel, but sadly, it got bogged down with far too much time spent on the internal dialogues of Sadie and Colt, so bogged down, in fact, that it became both irritating and boring, and I kept waiting for some forward momentum, which was a very long time coming. There were so many missed opportunities to deepen and address Sadie and Colt's issues by making them interact in believable, adult ways, but it takes almost the entire novel for that to happen, and for this reader, it seemed like too little, too late. It's not a bad read, but it's not a great one.
I voluntarily read an advance reader copy of this novel. The opinions expressed are my own.
My first issue is the title. Colt Vance is the leading male character in this novel, and he's certainly not a cowboy. He left the town of Last Stand and the Martin Family Goat Farm 10 years earlier, and made his fortune beginning with a large win at a local casino, which he turned into a successful business, building, renovating and eventually flipping houses--hardly a cowboy enterprise, although it is mentioned later in the novel that he eventually he had plans to raise cattle on the land he inherited from his violently abusive, alcoholic father, land which adjoins the Goat Farm. I'm thinking that "Colt's Homecoming" would have been a better title choice.
Fritz Martin, current owner of the goat farm, and his now deceased wife, took in Colt and two other troubled and abused teenage boys--and the boys bonded as brothers under their care. The Martins treated all 3 boys as family, but Fritz took the boys aside early on and made them promise to work hard, be honest with him, and finally, to stay away from his three daughters. It was a promise Colt took very seriously, because as soon as he realized his attraction to one of them, Sadie, the middle daughter, Colt packed up, moved away and stayed gone for a decade. He would have stayed gone for good had he not heard from Fritz, and when he learned that Fritz and the farm were deeply in debt and in danger of losing the land that had been in his family for generations, Colt, now wealthy, offered to lend Fritz the money he needed, but, unbeknownst to anyone other than Sadie, Fritz had heart-related issues, and so he accepted Colt's money on the condition that he and Colt would become 50/50 partners in the ranch--but how was Colt going to do that and stay away from Sadie?
Sadie is a born and bred farm girl at heart. It was her idea was to turn her goat milk and cheese operation into a tourist destination to save the farm, but her father would never show her the books or admit to their dire financial status, didn't tell her how much money Colt has invested in the farm, and she and Colt had had an ongoing adversarial snark battle going on from the day he arrived at the Morgan's as an angry, difficult, abused and troubled teenager. Sadie always felt that while she knew her father loved her and her sisters, he had a much better relationship with the 3 angst-ridden boys his wife brought home, and had, in fact, promised his wife on her deathbed, that he would raise and love the boys as she did. He kept that promise. What neither her father nor Colt knew was that Sadie was attracted to Colt, although being so sheltered and spending all her time with her goats, she didn't date, and had only had sex once in order to lose her virginity. Since it wasn't a great experience for her, she couldn't have cared less about repeating it, but then handsome, charming, Colt arrived and suddenly she didn't understand what she was feeling for him, and vacillated from annoyance with his being there, outrage at now being forced to work with him, distrust of his motives for returning, irritation at his charm and good looks, and she took a long time to recognize that she had been and still was attracted to him--but what about Colt's promise to steer clear of the Martin daughters?
Both main characters had a lot of issues with self-esteem, Colt always felt indebted to Fritz Martin, and also had been made to feel so worthless by his own father that he couldn't accept that he was respected, and considered a full member of the Martin family, and worthy of their love. Sadie too had issues with self-esteem, and is completely oblivious to her own good looks, and her work ethic--all she knows is that she loves the farm and her goats, and hates the changes that are happening all around her since Colt's return.
So far, I liked the premise and promise of this novel, but sadly, it got bogged down with far too much time spent on the internal dialogues of Sadie and Colt, so bogged down, in fact, that it became both irritating and boring, and I kept waiting for some forward momentum, which was a very long time coming. There were so many missed opportunities to deepen and address Sadie and Colt's issues by making them interact in believable, adult ways, but it takes almost the entire novel for that to happen, and for this reader, it seemed like too little, too late. It's not a bad read, but it's not a great one.
I voluntarily read an advance reader copy of this novel. The opinions expressed are my own.
May 16, 2019
Homecoming for the Cowboy by Nicole Helm
Will he break a promise or break her heart?
Colt Vance owes everything he is to the Martin family, which is why he’s stayed far, far away for years. But now that Fritz Martin has asked him a favor, he’s back in Last Stand facing the one temptation he can’t ever give into: his mentor’s middle daughter.
Sadie Martin doesn’t like Colt Vance, or so she’s told herself for years. He’s far too charming and has her father wrapped around his finger. But Sadie doesn’t have a choice except to work with Colt to save her beloved goat farm.
Working together tests Colt’s resolve when it comes to his attraction to Sadie, and Sadie comes to realize she doesn’t just enjoy Colt’s company, she craves it. But Colt can’t break the promise he made to Fritz years ago. Can one tenacious farm girl convince this stubborn cowboy love is always the answer to any problem?
This is Sadie Martin and Colt Vance's story.
“I know we need help, but we do not need his help. If you’d just give me the books, actually let me in, I could handle this without him.”
Fritz Martin sat in his oversized chair behind his giant desk that took up most of his office. Behind him, a long rectangle window looked out over the rolling green of their land. Martin land for generations. He made an imposing figure: big man, big furniture, gorgeous backdrop.
Not just an imposing man, but an impressive one. A man Sadie loved with her whole heart.
Colt sat—no that wasn’t an accurate word—he sprawled on a leather couch, cowboy hat pulled low. He wore battered jeans, even more battered boots, and a crisp-looking blazer over a T-shirt. He should look ridiculous. He was ridiculous.
He’d had one insane stroke of luck at a casino with the money her father had given him for his twenty-first birthday, and then turned that small fortune into a larger one by buying and selling land and houses across Texas. He took advantage of people who had to sell, and then even more advantage of people who had money to burn.
If she told herself all that, worked on her outrage and ire, she didn’t have to pay attention to all the ways Colt made her feel off-kilter and strange. Uncomfortable. Sadie hated to be uncomfortable.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book."
Homecoming for the Cowboy by Nicole Helm is 3 star book.
Nicole's Books with Tule:
Bride by Mistake
Big Sky Brides
Montana Born Brides
Keep Me, Cowboy
The 77th Copper Mountain Rodeo
Ignite
Firefighters of Montana
Bride for Keeps
Big Sky Brides
Homecoming for the Cowboy
Bad Boys of Last Stand
Will he break a promise or break her heart?
Colt Vance owes everything he is to the Martin family, which is why he’s stayed far, far away for years. But now that Fritz Martin has asked him a favor, he’s back in Last Stand facing the one temptation he can’t ever give into: his mentor’s middle daughter.
Sadie Martin doesn’t like Colt Vance, or so she’s told herself for years. He’s far too charming and has her father wrapped around his finger. But Sadie doesn’t have a choice except to work with Colt to save her beloved goat farm.
Working together tests Colt’s resolve when it comes to his attraction to Sadie, and Sadie comes to realize she doesn’t just enjoy Colt’s company, she craves it. But Colt can’t break the promise he made to Fritz years ago. Can one tenacious farm girl convince this stubborn cowboy love is always the answer to any problem?
This is Sadie Martin and Colt Vance's story.
“I know we need help, but we do not need his help. If you’d just give me the books, actually let me in, I could handle this without him.”
Fritz Martin sat in his oversized chair behind his giant desk that took up most of his office. Behind him, a long rectangle window looked out over the rolling green of their land. Martin land for generations. He made an imposing figure: big man, big furniture, gorgeous backdrop.
Not just an imposing man, but an impressive one. A man Sadie loved with her whole heart.
Colt sat—no that wasn’t an accurate word—he sprawled on a leather couch, cowboy hat pulled low. He wore battered jeans, even more battered boots, and a crisp-looking blazer over a T-shirt. He should look ridiculous. He was ridiculous.
He’d had one insane stroke of luck at a casino with the money her father had given him for his twenty-first birthday, and then turned that small fortune into a larger one by buying and selling land and houses across Texas. He took advantage of people who had to sell, and then even more advantage of people who had money to burn.
If she told herself all that, worked on her outrage and ire, she didn’t have to pay attention to all the ways Colt made her feel off-kilter and strange. Uncomfortable. Sadie hated to be uncomfortable.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book."
Homecoming for the Cowboy by Nicole Helm is 3 star book.
Nicole's Books with Tule:
Bride by Mistake
Big Sky Brides
Montana Born Brides
Keep Me, Cowboy
The 77th Copper Mountain Rodeo
Ignite
Firefighters of Montana
Bride for Keeps
Big Sky Brides
Homecoming for the Cowboy
Bad Boys of Last Stand
May 16, 2019
4.5 stars
This is a super-fast read that is full of emotion. Colt and Sadie are both on such a tight rope when it comes to their feeling for each other. Both in such denial about their attraction and what that attraction means…to them and to their family.
Colt had a really hard time of it growing up, until Sadie’s parents took him in as a teen. The fact that Sadie’s dad and deceased mom looked upon Colt as a son (although there’s a 6-year age difference so they weren’t really raised as siblings) puts another level of reticence to the couple. It also gives Colt a huge chip on his shoulder and a very murky understanding of what unconditional love really is.
Sadie has always done what she could to not make waves. Of the three sisters, she was the one her dad could rely on to “do the right thing”. In other words, do what he wanted. She’s a tough cookie and knows her own mind, but her dad still has some antiquated thoughts on roles of men and women that can grate. She’ll fight him on things she’s passionate about, but still end up backing down in the end.
These two gave me so many butterflies in their “will they or won’t they” tug of war. I was rooting for them to finally both choose their own happiness instead of worrying about those around them so much. And I adored their thoughts of being upfront with everyone once they gave into those feelings. Cole and Sadie both have a lot of respect for the family and wanted to do things the right way.
The one character I really couldn’t get behind is the dad, Fritz. He made me so angry so many times. Even when he somewhat explains himself, I’m not fully satisfied with his reasoning. The man had it rough having to raise these kids after his wife died and he was deeply grieving. He was not really a bad father. In fact, he was a pretty great father. But his staunch stance on certain things and his disregard to what his actions were doing to Sadie (and often times the rest of the family) put him on my bad side.
I have a feeling this is going to be an interesting series to read. We still have 2 more sisters and 2 more foster brothers to have their stories told. Maybe they’ll share HEAs like Sadie and Colt. I can’t wait to find out.
**I received an ARC of this book courtesy of Net Galley and the publisher. All opinions expressed in this review are my own and given freely**
This review can also be found at All In Good Time.
This is a super-fast read that is full of emotion. Colt and Sadie are both on such a tight rope when it comes to their feeling for each other. Both in such denial about their attraction and what that attraction means…to them and to their family.
Colt had a really hard time of it growing up, until Sadie’s parents took him in as a teen. The fact that Sadie’s dad and deceased mom looked upon Colt as a son (although there’s a 6-year age difference so they weren’t really raised as siblings) puts another level of reticence to the couple. It also gives Colt a huge chip on his shoulder and a very murky understanding of what unconditional love really is.
Sadie has always done what she could to not make waves. Of the three sisters, she was the one her dad could rely on to “do the right thing”. In other words, do what he wanted. She’s a tough cookie and knows her own mind, but her dad still has some antiquated thoughts on roles of men and women that can grate. She’ll fight him on things she’s passionate about, but still end up backing down in the end.
These two gave me so many butterflies in their “will they or won’t they” tug of war. I was rooting for them to finally both choose their own happiness instead of worrying about those around them so much. And I adored their thoughts of being upfront with everyone once they gave into those feelings. Cole and Sadie both have a lot of respect for the family and wanted to do things the right way.
The one character I really couldn’t get behind is the dad, Fritz. He made me so angry so many times. Even when he somewhat explains himself, I’m not fully satisfied with his reasoning. The man had it rough having to raise these kids after his wife died and he was deeply grieving. He was not really a bad father. In fact, he was a pretty great father. But his staunch stance on certain things and his disregard to what his actions were doing to Sadie (and often times the rest of the family) put him on my bad side.
I have a feeling this is going to be an interesting series to read. We still have 2 more sisters and 2 more foster brothers to have their stories told. Maybe they’ll share HEAs like Sadie and Colt. I can’t wait to find out.
**I received an ARC of this book courtesy of Net Galley and the publisher. All opinions expressed in this review are my own and given freely**
This review can also be found at All In Good Time.
May 29, 2019
Reviewed at Keeper Bookshelf
I think, in many ways, that Nicole Helm’s HOMECOMING FOR THE COWBOY is one of the most realistic romances (cowboy or not) that I’ve read in a while. Colt is so flawed while still being human and believable – it’s those flaws that make him real in my eyes. Colt and two other young men were the town troublemakers and headed straight on a path to jail until the Martin family took them under their wing and made upstanding honest men out of boys who were angry at the world and always in trouble. Colt has always had a soft spot for one daughter, Sadie. Yet he’s also been warned away by her overprotective father quite strongly. Now, Colt is back home in Last Stand to stay, to face old demons, to forge a new future with a man he respects and to live a life near the woman he’s loved forever but can never have.
The sparks between Sadie and Colt are very real – but for different reasons, at least at first. Sadie resents Colt for the simple fact that her father has always treated the three young men as sons when he had perfectly capable and willing daughters right under his stubborn nose. Now with Colt home and Sadie figuring out the huge secret between Colt and Fritz, she’s even angrier and perhaps, even more, hurt by both men.
It takes strength to deny yourself the chance at love with the one woman you’re convinced is your future. It takes a man’s honor to stand behind a promise made to an overprotective father, even as a successful man today. As the relationship between Sadie and Colt catches fire, she will demand that they face her father and settle their future. Not giving away spoilers, but that confrontation broke my heart for everyone involved.
HOMECOMING FOR THE COWBOY is emotional, at times heartbreaking story of growth, stubbornness, loving and compromise. I’ll leave the decision of whether Colt is an honorable man or not up to each reader – but I would want this man at my side in spite of his stubborn nature. Sadie and Colt gave us an excellent beginning to the Bad Boys of Last Stand series, and I’m definitely hooked for more.
*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.*
I think, in many ways, that Nicole Helm’s HOMECOMING FOR THE COWBOY is one of the most realistic romances (cowboy or not) that I’ve read in a while. Colt is so flawed while still being human and believable – it’s those flaws that make him real in my eyes. Colt and two other young men were the town troublemakers and headed straight on a path to jail until the Martin family took them under their wing and made upstanding honest men out of boys who were angry at the world and always in trouble. Colt has always had a soft spot for one daughter, Sadie. Yet he’s also been warned away by her overprotective father quite strongly. Now, Colt is back home in Last Stand to stay, to face old demons, to forge a new future with a man he respects and to live a life near the woman he’s loved forever but can never have.
The sparks between Sadie and Colt are very real – but for different reasons, at least at first. Sadie resents Colt for the simple fact that her father has always treated the three young men as sons when he had perfectly capable and willing daughters right under his stubborn nose. Now with Colt home and Sadie figuring out the huge secret between Colt and Fritz, she’s even angrier and perhaps, even more, hurt by both men.
It takes strength to deny yourself the chance at love with the one woman you’re convinced is your future. It takes a man’s honor to stand behind a promise made to an overprotective father, even as a successful man today. As the relationship between Sadie and Colt catches fire, she will demand that they face her father and settle their future. Not giving away spoilers, but that confrontation broke my heart for everyone involved.
HOMECOMING FOR THE COWBOY is emotional, at times heartbreaking story of growth, stubbornness, loving and compromise. I’ll leave the decision of whether Colt is an honorable man or not up to each reader – but I would want this man at my side in spite of his stubborn nature. Sadie and Colt gave us an excellent beginning to the Bad Boys of Last Stand series, and I’m definitely hooked for more.
*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.*
January 25, 2021
Enjoyable but tame
3 stars
I always love an enemies to lovers story - especially when that animosity is thinly disguised love, lust or both. With Colt and Sadie, there’s a little more avoidance of each other than full on hatred of any kind. And after the classic “I don’t want you - but I don’t want anyone else to have you” backfires and the pair give in to their attraction - they’re quickly into a relationship, pretty much forgetting everything that’s gone on before.
What fell a little flat for me was the whole reason that Colt felt he couldn’t be with Sadie was because of a promise he made to her father about staying away from his daughter(s). On one hand, I understand the loyalty and devotion to not break a promise - especially to someone that you credit with making you the person you are… However, surely that respect goes two ways? You’re young and you bolt - but as an adult, shouldn’t you suck it up and just have an adult conversation about how to deal with this perfectly fixable “problem”.
As others have said, it’s really the setting that gives the cowboy angle - rather than Colt himself. I liked him, though. It’s a strange thing that I always want my heroes to be manly, confident and damn near perfect yet also want them to be ‘real’. So that’s why my issues with Colt’s lack of self-worth are also a bit muddied. Completely understandable but also maybe not what makes the ideal (idealistic?) hero.
Sadie - well, I just felt she was a bit bratty and juvenile for me. I don’t know what it is about Nicole Helm’s heroines that I seem to always have this complaint. She wasn’t my favourite although thankfully it wasn’t hatred that I felt towards her.
This was a sweet book and the writing was good - it just never blew my mind. It was a bit tame in all aspects and I can only give it 3 stars.
February 1, 2022
OH wow OK! I didn't think I'd love this book as much as I did from the beginning.
Colt was a bit too broody for my liking and was shut off from Sadie, and then Sadie was just a bit too mean. But then it all came out in the wash as to why they were like that with each other and I understood why.
Colt comes back "home" as he's making a deal with Fritz, but then that means he has to deal with Sadie, in more ways than just one. Merging the farms. He didn't want to come back But the deal he made with Fritz all those years ago, and then after all Fritz did raise him. He had to come back and help even if that meant seeing Sadie again.
Pen, and Mack have to come back home because of their dad Fritz as well. For different reasons.
Can Colt hold up his end of the deal he made, or does it make the mess EVEN bigger?
I really liked the humour, the characters, and the storyline in this book! I loved the character development of Sadie, and Colt as the story went along too. Bettering themselves but still being themselves for each other. I loved the backdrop of the story, the farm/s, and how it all came to be what will come of it.
In the beginning I could see what was gonna happen when Colt wouldn't let Ethan take Sadie to the Saloon without him. He wasn't going to let that happen!! And omg!! the scene after that! UGH loved it!!!
Some of my fave quotes from the book:
1. Maim them with my bare hands? - OMG! Swoon moment for me. Loved that Colt wanted to do that for Sadie.
2. Honestly, Daddy. Sadie is 26. They're going to Last Stand Saloon, not a crack den. - I died laughing so hard at this. Pen had a way with words.
3. He held her face with those big, calloused hands and took the kiss so deep she wasn't certain she was even standing of her own volition anymore. - OMG! YESSSSS! Loved it!! This was my FAVE part of the book!
4. Because if it sucks with you too, I'm done. Ruling out sex completely. - LOL!!!!! SO FUNNY!
5. I see. Talking with words or talking with tongues. - ROFL!! Again, Pen with the one liners!
Colt was a bit too broody for my liking and was shut off from Sadie, and then Sadie was just a bit too mean. But then it all came out in the wash as to why they were like that with each other and I understood why.
Colt comes back "home" as he's making a deal with Fritz, but then that means he has to deal with Sadie, in more ways than just one. Merging the farms. He didn't want to come back But the deal he made with Fritz all those years ago, and then after all Fritz did raise him. He had to come back and help even if that meant seeing Sadie again.
Pen, and Mack have to come back home because of their dad Fritz as well. For different reasons.
Can Colt hold up his end of the deal he made, or does it make the mess EVEN bigger?
I really liked the humour, the characters, and the storyline in this book! I loved the character development of Sadie, and Colt as the story went along too. Bettering themselves but still being themselves for each other. I loved the backdrop of the story, the farm/s, and how it all came to be what will come of it.
In the beginning I could see what was gonna happen when Colt wouldn't let Ethan take Sadie to the Saloon without him. He wasn't going to let that happen!! And omg!! the scene after that! UGH loved it!!!
Some of my fave quotes from the book:
1. Maim them with my bare hands? - OMG! Swoon moment for me. Loved that Colt wanted to do that for Sadie.
2. Honestly, Daddy. Sadie is 26. They're going to Last Stand Saloon, not a crack den. - I died laughing so hard at this. Pen had a way with words.
3. He held her face with those big, calloused hands and took the kiss so deep she wasn't certain she was even standing of her own volition anymore. - OMG! YESSSSS! Loved it!! This was my FAVE part of the book!
4. Because if it sucks with you too, I'm done. Ruling out sex completely. - LOL!!!!! SO FUNNY!
5. I see. Talking with words or talking with tongues. - ROFL!! Again, Pen with the one liners!
July 30, 2019
Colt Vance and Sadie Martin have been dancing around each other for years. Colt was taken in my Sadie's parents and removed from an abusive home to grow and heal. He owed everything to this family. He had made a promise to Fritz, Sadie's father years ago, to stay away from his daughters. But, Colt has loved Sadie from a distance for years. They were always bickering and fighting but only because he was concerned to let his guard down around her. He had left Last Stand years ago to make his fortune and to make Fritz Martin proud of the man he had become. But, he had returned to Last Stand at Fritz's request. They were in danger of losing their family farm and Colt could provide some needed cash to prevent that. Fritz wanted to make Colt a partner but not to let Sadie know of the financial crisis that the farm had been in.
Sadie hated Colt. Actually, she probably loved him but he would never see her as a woman. He would always be his "Squirt". She was angry that her father trusted Colt more than he trusted her. She knew the farm was in trouble but her dad wouldn't let her see the books to see how bad it was. He always seem to treat Colt like the son he never had. He never seemed to treat his daughters with that same respect and love. She was having a hard time being around Colt and not seeing the young boy who had survived such loss and abuse. She began to see that Colt couldn't see his worth. She was determined to make him see the wonderful man he was, even if it killed her.
I really liked this story very much. There was one somewhat graphic sex scene. There weren't a lot of details, which I was grateful for. The story was easy to read and the characters were well developed. I felt like a part of the Martin family and could identify with the emotions expressed.
I was given an arc copy of this book and I willingly offer my honest review.
Sadie hated Colt. Actually, she probably loved him but he would never see her as a woman. He would always be his "Squirt". She was angry that her father trusted Colt more than he trusted her. She knew the farm was in trouble but her dad wouldn't let her see the books to see how bad it was. He always seem to treat Colt like the son he never had. He never seemed to treat his daughters with that same respect and love. She was having a hard time being around Colt and not seeing the young boy who had survived such loss and abuse. She began to see that Colt couldn't see his worth. She was determined to make him see the wonderful man he was, even if it killed her.
I really liked this story very much. There was one somewhat graphic sex scene. There weren't a lot of details, which I was grateful for. The story was easy to read and the characters were well developed. I felt like a part of the Martin family and could identify with the emotions expressed.
I was given an arc copy of this book and I willingly offer my honest review.
May 2, 2019
Homecoming for the Cowboy is the first book in Nicole Helm’s new Bad Boys of Last Stand series. Colt Vance has made a name, and a small fortune, flipping homes all over Texas. When his foster father, Fritz Martin, asks for his help, Colt returns to Last Stand, although he fears his inability in keeping a long ago promise to Fritz when he does.
Fritz’ middle daughter Sadie is the one who has taken an interest in running the Martin Family Farm and has risen to the role. Younger sister Mackenzie rides rodeo. Older sister Penelope is a young widow with three daughters of her own. And it is precisely because of Sadie’s role in the everyday operation of the farm and her ideas for bringing them back into the black that Colt has his fears. The reason he has stayed away so long is because of his strong attraction to Sadie. But perhaps it will be all right since Sadie seems to regard him as an annoyance. If he doesn’t help fund the repairs and changes the farm needs, the family he loves so dearly will certainly lose their legacy.
As part of the move back to Last Stand, Colt has purchased the adjacent property, the old Vance spread where he has nothing but bad memories. Perhaps it will be cathartic to tear down the old place and create a house of his own. And perhaps Colt will find his own self worth in the process.
In a story of a couple, Fritz and Susannah, who bring three troubled young men into their home, raising them alongside their three younger daughters, this new series has introduced us to an elder Fritz, the memory of Susannah, the three daughters, and the boys the Martin’s took in, protected, and gave a fresh opportunity. These are endearing characters in a stark landscape. I did enjoy this book and do recommend it! I look forward to the rest of the series.
Fritz’ middle daughter Sadie is the one who has taken an interest in running the Martin Family Farm and has risen to the role. Younger sister Mackenzie rides rodeo. Older sister Penelope is a young widow with three daughters of her own. And it is precisely because of Sadie’s role in the everyday operation of the farm and her ideas for bringing them back into the black that Colt has his fears. The reason he has stayed away so long is because of his strong attraction to Sadie. But perhaps it will be all right since Sadie seems to regard him as an annoyance. If he doesn’t help fund the repairs and changes the farm needs, the family he loves so dearly will certainly lose their legacy.
As part of the move back to Last Stand, Colt has purchased the adjacent property, the old Vance spread where he has nothing but bad memories. Perhaps it will be cathartic to tear down the old place and create a house of his own. And perhaps Colt will find his own self worth in the process.
In a story of a couple, Fritz and Susannah, who bring three troubled young men into their home, raising them alongside their three younger daughters, this new series has introduced us to an elder Fritz, the memory of Susannah, the three daughters, and the boys the Martin’s took in, protected, and gave a fresh opportunity. These are endearing characters in a stark landscape. I did enjoy this book and do recommend it! I look forward to the rest of the series.
July 2, 2019
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Tule Publishing via NetGalley and I am voluntarily reviewing it.
This was a wonderful story. The first in the series and I look forward to more. Colt Vance comes to live with the Martin family as a young boy along with two other boys. The Martins already had three young daughters. The boys were brought up like sons but Sadie always felt like the boys received preferential treatment. Colt comes home after being away for years. Fritz Martin needs help with the farm which has fallen on hard times. Colt brings in much needed cash. Fritz just has two stipulations: 1) the name of the farm remains the same and 2) to remind Colt of a promise to leave his girls alone. Sadie and Colt have always butted heads together. Colt has loved Sadie for so long that he had to leave Last Stand and the farm to be away from her. Sadie just had a hard time with Colt coming home as she knew her father would confide more with him than her. Colt and Sadie have a road ahead of them to get to their HEA. There were some very poignant moments and some very funny ones. I cheered for Pen (one of Sadie's sisters) in one scene with Colt that I just wanted to highlight and mark the page for any future reference. She delivered an eloquent speech that was absolutely wonderful.
This book delivered a charming story that was so hard to put down. This was the second book from Tule that I have read that takes place in Last Stand, Texas. I so look forward to many more in this fictional town especially from this author and the rest of the Martin family.
I adored the POV format. Seeing Colt's thoughts really helped me to fully understand where he was coming from. I was able to identify with his character so much better.
I highly recommend this story to anyone.
This was a wonderful story. The first in the series and I look forward to more. Colt Vance comes to live with the Martin family as a young boy along with two other boys. The Martins already had three young daughters. The boys were brought up like sons but Sadie always felt like the boys received preferential treatment. Colt comes home after being away for years. Fritz Martin needs help with the farm which has fallen on hard times. Colt brings in much needed cash. Fritz just has two stipulations: 1) the name of the farm remains the same and 2) to remind Colt of a promise to leave his girls alone. Sadie and Colt have always butted heads together. Colt has loved Sadie for so long that he had to leave Last Stand and the farm to be away from her. Sadie just had a hard time with Colt coming home as she knew her father would confide more with him than her. Colt and Sadie have a road ahead of them to get to their HEA. There were some very poignant moments and some very funny ones. I cheered for Pen (one of Sadie's sisters) in one scene with Colt that I just wanted to highlight and mark the page for any future reference. She delivered an eloquent speech that was absolutely wonderful.
This book delivered a charming story that was so hard to put down. This was the second book from Tule that I have read that takes place in Last Stand, Texas. I so look forward to many more in this fictional town especially from this author and the rest of the Martin family.
I adored the POV format. Seeing Colt's thoughts really helped me to fully understand where he was coming from. I was able to identify with his character so much better.
I highly recommend this story to anyone.
April 19, 2019
I received this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. I am enjoying all the new books Tule has that take place in the fictional Texas town of Last Stand. This book is Sadie Martin and Colt Vance’s story. Sadie lives with her dad on the family goat farm and helps take care of it. Growing up her parents took in 3 boys with troubled family life. Ethan lives in Last Stand and is a cop. Bracken is on the rodeo circuit and Colt has recently returned from being away for 10 years to help Sadie’s dad save the farm. Her sister Mack is also on the rodeo circuit. Sadie’s sister Pen returns home with her 3 daughters after losing her cop husband. Sadie’s dad long ago told the boys they were to leave his 3 daughters alone. Colt realizes he has always loved Sadie. Sadie and Colt have always butted heads on everything and she just realized she has feelings for him too. Colt has returned to go into partnership with Sadie’s father Fritz. Colt kisses Sadie and they realize they have a lot of chemistry but Colt doesn’t feel worthy of her. They decide they are*going to pursue a relationship and go to tell Fritz. They notice he doesn’t look right but decide to tell him their plans and he suffers a heart attack. This leads to quite a bit of drama and romance. I really liked this storyline. I enjoyed meeting all the characters in this first book of the series and look forward to reading more. I recommend this 5 star book by Nicole Helm.
May 16, 2019
Homecoming for the Cowboy is another story taking place in my new favorite fictional town of Last Stand, Texas. Nicole Helm introduces the reader to the Martin family with the middle daughter, Sadie, being in the spotlight. Colt Vance is one of three brothers that the Martin family gave a home when they were young. Now Colt comes back to help Fritz Martin with saving the farm.
Colt was a troubled youth who had a family legacy that was difficult to overcome as he grew up. His gratitude to Fritz is admirable but the promises made should no longer be valid since all the children are grown adults when this story takes place. Sadie and Colt mask their secret attraction by indifference and dislike. I knew this would not work now but it was interesting to see how they would come to the same conclusion, working towards a meaningful relationship.
Nicole Helm knows cowboys, stubbornness, loyalty and family ties, weaving it all into an engaging realistic story. If you enjoy cowboys, flaws and all, but who have strength of character, act with resolute trying to do their best, and deserve to find love, then you will want to read the first of the Martin Family Stories. I am hoping that more books are coming so that all return home to find love.
An ARC of the book was given to me by the publisher through Net Galley which I voluntarily chose to read and reviewed. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Colt was a troubled youth who had a family legacy that was difficult to overcome as he grew up. His gratitude to Fritz is admirable but the promises made should no longer be valid since all the children are grown adults when this story takes place. Sadie and Colt mask their secret attraction by indifference and dislike. I knew this would not work now but it was interesting to see how they would come to the same conclusion, working towards a meaningful relationship.
Nicole Helm knows cowboys, stubbornness, loyalty and family ties, weaving it all into an engaging realistic story. If you enjoy cowboys, flaws and all, but who have strength of character, act with resolute trying to do their best, and deserve to find love, then you will want to read the first of the Martin Family Stories. I am hoping that more books are coming so that all return home to find love.
An ARC of the book was given to me by the publisher through Net Galley which I voluntarily chose to read and reviewed. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
August 12, 2019
Martin family took Colt Vance in when he was being abused by his father and left by his mother. When Fritz Martin calls him for his help with his farm, he comes back to Last Stand.
Sadie Martin always loved life in the farm and approval of her father. She was only one staying with her father and never went against his father's wish. But when she finds out Colt is coming to help with her farm, it is wrecking havoc on her. They always teased each other and argued. Now he is back at her farm, it is creating different kind of feel for Sadie.
Colt has been away from the farm to get away from Sadie and when he faces her back, he is not sure if he could stay away from her. He promised Fritz when he was younger, he won't get involved with his daughters.
Sadie and Colt has their own problems to deal with and they can heal each other's wounds but both doesn't know it yet.
When Sadie's sister and nieces comes back to live with them, Sadie realize what she has with Colt. But she is not sure Colt will return her feelings and when they decided to open up to her father things get even more complicated.
Colt needs to keep his promise to Fritz but he is not sure if he can let stay away from Sadie.
It was cute story two people who needed each other. It was quick summer read.
Thanks to Netgalley and Tule Publishing for ARC in exchange for honest review.
Sadie Martin always loved life in the farm and approval of her father. She was only one staying with her father and never went against his father's wish. But when she finds out Colt is coming to help with her farm, it is wrecking havoc on her. They always teased each other and argued. Now he is back at her farm, it is creating different kind of feel for Sadie.
Colt has been away from the farm to get away from Sadie and when he faces her back, he is not sure if he could stay away from her. He promised Fritz when he was younger, he won't get involved with his daughters.
Sadie and Colt has their own problems to deal with and they can heal each other's wounds but both doesn't know it yet.
When Sadie's sister and nieces comes back to live with them, Sadie realize what she has with Colt. But she is not sure Colt will return her feelings and when they decided to open up to her father things get even more complicated.
Colt needs to keep his promise to Fritz but he is not sure if he can let stay away from Sadie.
It was cute story two people who needed each other. It was quick summer read.
Thanks to Netgalley and Tule Publishing for ARC in exchange for honest review.
March 12, 2019
I thought this book was a great start to a new series. I have read this author before so I am not surprised that I enjoyed the book. One of the aspects I enjoyed the most were the characters. As with any start to new series you find that there are many secondary characters we are introduced to, giving us a hint of what’s to come next. And as always I was intrigued and looking forward to the next books in the series. Sadie and Colt were the H/h. Once upon a time, Colt made a promise to Sadie’s father. Colt was to promise that he would “stay away” from his three daughters. I had a big problem with that promise because Colt was like a son to Sadie‘s father. Why would he not trust Colt with any of his daughters? The only way this promise could be kept was for Colt to leave Last Chance. And I hated the way Fritz (Sadie’s dad) treated her. I know his heart was in the right place, but it still irked me. I truly wished the author would’ve taken us back in time through a couple of chapters to let us experience Sadie and Colt as kids. I believe I would have loved their characters rather than just liked. Despite my little peeves I did enjoy this book.
This is my honest and unbiased review. Thank you for taking the time to read it.
This is my honest and unbiased review. Thank you for taking the time to read it.
May 15, 2019
This is the best book I have read by Nicole Helm thusfar! It was a sweet and romantic book about two people who have resisted their feelings for each other for years, but can’t ignore them any longer.
Homecoming for the Cowboy is the story of Colt and Sadie, two goat farmers who grew up together. Sadie comes from a loving home, Colt comes from an abusive, alcoholic father, and Sadie’s parents take him in as a teenager. As a teen, Colt is warned by Sadie’s father to stay away from his daughters, and Colt takes his promise to not pursue any of them very seriously. However, as the years go by, it becomes harder and harder for him to keep that promise as his attraction to Sadie grows. When the family faces a hardship, Colt returns home to help out, and his feelings become impossible to ignore.
I really enjoyed this book. The feelings between the two were clear from the start, and there was a lot of sexual tension and a slow burn to finally get them together. Since they grew up together, there was already a lot of love and understanding between the two; they just needed to change the dynamic of their relationship. I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review, and I cannot wait to read the next book about one of Sadie’s sisters finding love.
Homecoming for the Cowboy is the story of Colt and Sadie, two goat farmers who grew up together. Sadie comes from a loving home, Colt comes from an abusive, alcoholic father, and Sadie’s parents take him in as a teenager. As a teen, Colt is warned by Sadie’s father to stay away from his daughters, and Colt takes his promise to not pursue any of them very seriously. However, as the years go by, it becomes harder and harder for him to keep that promise as his attraction to Sadie grows. When the family faces a hardship, Colt returns home to help out, and his feelings become impossible to ignore.
I really enjoyed this book. The feelings between the two were clear from the start, and there was a lot of sexual tension and a slow burn to finally get them together. Since they grew up together, there was already a lot of love and understanding between the two; they just needed to change the dynamic of their relationship. I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review, and I cannot wait to read the next book about one of Sadie’s sisters finding love.
May 16, 2019
Such a great story of overcoming obstacles and fighting for what you deserve in life. To be honest, my chest was having some serious pain and I could literally feel my heart breaking while reading this book, but I would do it all again in a heartbeat.
I loved that Sadie had a strong voice and didn't hide her opinion, as that's usually one of my pet peeves in female lead characters. Her relationship with her sisters is heart warming and I love their family dynamic. A wonderful story and I can't wait for more in this series!
Colt Vance has believed from a young age that he's not worthy of anyone's love, but wants to make Fritz Martin proud. The only promise he's ever had a hard time keeping is to keep away from Fritz's daughter, Sadie.
When the family farm is at risk for being lost, Colt comes back to become a partner in the business and financially save it from ruin. Sadie has always believed that Colt hated her and they've never gotten along, so why is she suddenly having weird feeling for him?
I loved that Sadie had a strong voice and didn't hide her opinion, as that's usually one of my pet peeves in female lead characters. Her relationship with her sisters is heart warming and I love their family dynamic. A wonderful story and I can't wait for more in this series!
Colt Vance has believed from a young age that he's not worthy of anyone's love, but wants to make Fritz Martin proud. The only promise he's ever had a hard time keeping is to keep away from Fritz's daughter, Sadie.
When the family farm is at risk for being lost, Colt comes back to become a partner in the business and financially save it from ruin. Sadie has always believed that Colt hated her and they've never gotten along, so why is she suddenly having weird feeling for him?
July 7, 2020
Homecoming for the Cowboy was a fast, easy read that I enjoyed for the most part. Colt Vance is a tortured soul, but he's not really a cowboy so much as he broods under his stetson while occasionally milking a goat. He's back home to help his surrogate father save his goat farm, but to do that, he'll be faced every day with the woman he knows he can't have, even though he wants her. He thinks anyway. Maybe? Yes. But he can't. He promised never to look at her. That was basically the book for the first 40% from Colt's POV. Sadie was different because she wanted Colt, but she didn't understand why he lived to make her mad.
Why can't Colt have her? Well, her father made him swear he'd never mess with any of his girls. Frankly, that storyline drives me to distraction for so many reasons. I hung in there, though, and I was glad I did. Ms. Helm managed to redeem Fritz and help the reader understand why he made the choices he made.
I enjoyed the happily ever after and the promise of more love to be found for Sadie and Colt's family.
Why can't Colt have her? Well, her father made him swear he'd never mess with any of his girls. Frankly, that storyline drives me to distraction for so many reasons. I hung in there, though, and I was glad I did. Ms. Helm managed to redeem Fritz and help the reader understand why he made the choices he made.
I enjoyed the happily ever after and the promise of more love to be found for Sadie and Colt's family.
June 1, 2019
Homecoming for the Cowboy is a book that starts a new series. It is a little bit of a taboo story because Colt has hots for Sadie, a girl he was raised with and some could consider as a sister. Because Colt made a promise to his father figure -Fritz the person who took him and thinks of him as his boy- that he would not have anything with one his daughters. That is why he stays away until Fritz needs his help. It is hard for Cole to be near Sadie a not to act on his feelings. Little that he know is that Sadie is attracted to him as well. Will they be strong enough to fight for their love or will be wish for approval best stronger. Story that is full on family drama and having many secrets. Both Colt and Sadie are well developed and have amazing chemistry. We can see that the series will be interesting and that others boy and girls were hiding their feelings as well so I am waiting the next book with anticipitation.
I volunteered to review an ARC of this book for Netgelly
I volunteered to review an ARC of this book for Netgelly
May 8, 2019
This story is a love story with a lot of sass. The author has a way of pulling on your heart strings for sure in the book. Colt being so strong and pigheaded yet also very open and vulnerable. Sadie can we talk about what a hard head she is, yet she too had this soft side to her. I loved the little girls and even though it was small the author had a way of letting their little personality shine through. I can’t wait to read more about this family what what they are up to next. There is a sex scene not very graphic and like one curse word, other then that this book was a very sweet love story . It was also a quick read and I found myself not wanting to put it down.
I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley. I was under no obligation to post a review and have given my honest opinion.
I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley. I was under no obligation to post a review and have given my honest opinion.
June 3, 2019
Fritz and his wife took Colt Vance in and raised him as their own. The one condition was that their daughters were off limits.Colt has long since left town and made something of himself. He is a successful and wealthy man. When Fritz asks him for help in saving the family ranch he can't refuse. Last time he saw Fritz's daughter Sadie was at her 21st birthday party. She was no longer a child and he had feelings he knew he could not have. Now he has to go back and ignore his feelings and keep his distance from Sadie. When he sees Sadie she acts like she hates him. Does she hate him or is she trying to hide something? Does the man he is today have to keep a promise made by a punk teenager? Good read.
August 25, 2025
Thanks Nicole for another wonderful story. Loved this first book in this series. This is Colt and Sadie’s story.
Susannah Martin and her husband Fritz took in three very troubled boys. They had three daughters of their own so this was quite the undertaking. When Suzanne passed and left Fritz alone with the six children. He made them all promise one thing. They would never get in a relationship with each other. The thing is the boys thought they were the only ones that were told that!
Colt left the farm because he had strong feelings for Sadie. After he left Sadie pretty much stayed at home just working in the farm and raising the goats. When the farm gets into some trouble, Colt is back to help the family out.
Do you think they can keep their promise to Fritz/dad? Or will Luv win?
Susannah Martin and her husband Fritz took in three very troubled boys. They had three daughters of their own so this was quite the undertaking. When Suzanne passed and left Fritz alone with the six children. He made them all promise one thing. They would never get in a relationship with each other. The thing is the boys thought they were the only ones that were told that!
Colt left the farm because he had strong feelings for Sadie. After he left Sadie pretty much stayed at home just working in the farm and raising the goats. When the farm gets into some trouble, Colt is back to help the family out.
Do you think they can keep their promise to Fritz/dad? Or will Luv win?
May 16, 2019
Hot new series with a cowboy, cop and a rodeo man. Three boys with a rough childhood were taken in by Fritz Martin and raised with his three girls. Years later and Colt returns home to help the family farm, his feelings for Sadie are stronger than ever. The characters are smart, witty and strong minded. Plenty of push and pull between Sadie and Colt. I don't usually like flashbacks, but I feel it could have enhanced the story. Maybe show how Susannah got Colt to stay or an old memory of Sadie and Colt. I think I needed more background pieces. Can't wait for the other stories. My copy came through Netgalley.
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