What do you think?
Garrett Family Saga #1
The Best Cowboy Christmas Ever
Enjoy a down-home Texas cowboy Christmas!
When handsome town sheriff Derrick Shelton meets Angelique Guillory and her young daughter at the Garrett ranch, he is immediately drawn to the woman who seems to desperately need a true family Christmas. Determined to erase the shadows from her eyes, he decides to give her the best holiday she's ever had.
Angelique Guillory is a woman with a past, haunted by violence and searching for the family she never knew. When she and her little daughter find their way to the Garrett family and meet Derrick, she hopes to have finally found a safe haven.
But Angelique is still looking over her shoulder. Despite her doubts, with a little Christmas magic and the warmth of the Garretts, Angelique may find more love and acceptance than she ever thought possible.
When handsome town sheriff Derrick Shelton meets Angelique Guillory and her young daughter at the Garrett ranch, he is immediately drawn to the woman who seems to desperately need a true family Christmas. Determined to erase the shadows from her eyes, he decides to give her the best holiday she's ever had.
Angelique Guillory is a woman with a past, haunted by violence and searching for the family she never knew. When she and her little daughter find their way to the Garrett family and meet Derrick, she hopes to have finally found a safe haven.
But Angelique is still looking over her shoulder. Despite her doubts, with a little Christmas magic and the warmth of the Garretts, Angelique may find more love and acceptance than she ever thought possible.
- GenresContemporary
352 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published September 29, 2020
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews
July 7, 2020
This is a cowboy romance, and it is the first book in the Garrett Family Saga series. This book is about Angelique and her daughter having a secret that made her leave where she grow up. On her Mother's death bed she told her who her Dad is, so she decided to go to meet him and hopefully stay with him. Of course she fells in love during this book with a very fast moving romance. I have to say the very fast romance did not bother me. My husband and me has a fast romance. We moved in together after dating for one month, and we are still together 17 years later. I like that this book had more then just the romance. It had drama, secrets, family learning to be a family, and of course a new romance. The characters where well developed, and I really enjoyed being with these characters. I really enjoyed this book, and the end of this book made me want to keep reading. I was kindly provided an e-copy of this book by the publisher (Sourcebooks Casablanca) or author (June Faver) via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review about how I feel about this book, and I want to send a big Thank you to them for that.
July 13, 2020
I did not love this book. I actually have considered not leaving feedback for it, because I worried that my opinion might not be fair. I haven't read the other books in the series - and this book is very much an epilogue to those other books as much as it is a standalone. You certainly didn't need to read the other books to understand what is happening, but perhaps if you had read them you would like this one a lot more.
Angelique Guillory is the daughter of the patriarch of the Garrett family from a relationship he had with his college girlfriend. She didn't know who her father was until her mother told her just before she died. Angelique and her young daughter headed on to Texas, fleeing a bad situation to find her family and try to connect with them. The prime focus of this book is on the reaction of her half-siblings and getting to know her father (with a side order of Angelique falling in love with the local Sheriff). There is a lot of time spent with her three half-brothers and their wives during the book.
Its a cute premise and a great little small-town cowboy story. So why didn't I like it? Well - a lot of the book just didn't make sense to me. Like why no one asked questions about Angelique's past - other than confrontationally when they thought she was a scam artist. Or why Big Jim didn't bring all his children together to talk to them and introduce them - rather than letting them find out over the phone. Or how Derrick decides he's in love after meeting Angelique twice and only talking to her briefly (I know - when you know, you know - but this seemed more like lust than love). I also didn't understand why Angelique wasn't more forthcoming with her family about where she came from and why. Or why we even talked about Mark's story about a family Christmas - when we didn't get to see or here what he wrote? Or why Misty had to quit her job if they wanted to have a baby? Or why they couldn't just freaking talk about things all together and ask Angelique about why she was there rather than just speculate endlessly?
Overall - there was a lot of talking and "feeling" in the book but not a lot of communication. I didn't fully feel the "love" between Angelique and Derrick and so many many things didn't make sense - and I'm not sure they would have even with more context if I had read the other books.
I received this as an ARC from NetGalley and these opinions are all my own. I'm sorry I didn't love it!
Angelique Guillory is the daughter of the patriarch of the Garrett family from a relationship he had with his college girlfriend. She didn't know who her father was until her mother told her just before she died. Angelique and her young daughter headed on to Texas, fleeing a bad situation to find her family and try to connect with them. The prime focus of this book is on the reaction of her half-siblings and getting to know her father (with a side order of Angelique falling in love with the local Sheriff). There is a lot of time spent with her three half-brothers and their wives during the book.
Its a cute premise and a great little small-town cowboy story. So why didn't I like it? Well - a lot of the book just didn't make sense to me. Like why no one asked questions about Angelique's past - other than confrontationally when they thought she was a scam artist. Or why Big Jim didn't bring all his children together to talk to them and introduce them - rather than letting them find out over the phone. Or how Derrick decides he's in love after meeting Angelique twice and only talking to her briefly (I know - when you know, you know - but this seemed more like lust than love). I also didn't understand why Angelique wasn't more forthcoming with her family about where she came from and why. Or why we even talked about Mark's story about a family Christmas - when we didn't get to see or here what he wrote? Or why Misty had to quit her job if they wanted to have a baby? Or why they couldn't just freaking talk about things all together and ask Angelique about why she was there rather than just speculate endlessly?
Overall - there was a lot of talking and "feeling" in the book but not a lot of communication. I didn't fully feel the "love" between Angelique and Derrick and so many many things didn't make sense - and I'm not sure they would have even with more context if I had read the other books.
I received this as an ARC from NetGalley and these opinions are all my own. I'm sorry I didn't love it!
July 27, 2020
Where do I even start with this review? This book was so badly written (disjointed thoughts; some chapters were merely listing daily activities everyone was doing; several times the author repeated the same descriptions throughout the book, etc.) and the story itself was so unbelievable that I really wanted to stop reading. But I kept going because I really wanted to finish it.
The Garrett family is strange for so many reasons. The dad, Big Jim, discovers he fathered an illegitimate child with his college sweetheart and never knew until she found him many years later. If Big Jim was so in love with his college sweetheart, why didn’t he try to find her after she failed to return to college after her freshman year? He doesn’t talk to her all summer and never calls her to find out what happened? They were “in love”, but that’s a strange type of love.
Angelique is the long lost daughter that crashes into the Garrett world. Colt, the oldest son, doesn’t trust Angelique. He assumes she is pulling a scam on his dad. Colt’s wife acts sheepish around Angelique also. Then one day they do an about face and they want to be best friends with her. Strange.
And who finds out they have a long lost daughter without calling the rest of the family together to make the introductions? Instead, they just let the family phone tree work it’s magic. Again, very strange.
The sheriff falls INSTANTLY in love with Angelique and she falls for him as well. Even though the true love of her life just died - who was also the father of her baby. More strange.
Angelique introduces herself as “Angel”, but no one EVER called her that in the book. Strange.
And the book is filled with so many extra facts that the readers don’t need. It actually made the book very tedious to read.
The mafia is even mentioned in this book. And the main mafia man decides to come after Angelique himself instead of using one of his hired hands. Yeah, that’s not going to happen in real life.
I could go on and on with many more examples of just how strange this book is. Just trust me.
All in all, this book was not enjoyable.
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review. The opinions stated above are mine without biases.
The Garrett family is strange for so many reasons. The dad, Big Jim, discovers he fathered an illegitimate child with his college sweetheart and never knew until she found him many years later. If Big Jim was so in love with his college sweetheart, why didn’t he try to find her after she failed to return to college after her freshman year? He doesn’t talk to her all summer and never calls her to find out what happened? They were “in love”, but that’s a strange type of love.
Angelique is the long lost daughter that crashes into the Garrett world. Colt, the oldest son, doesn’t trust Angelique. He assumes she is pulling a scam on his dad. Colt’s wife acts sheepish around Angelique also. Then one day they do an about face and they want to be best friends with her. Strange.
And who finds out they have a long lost daughter without calling the rest of the family together to make the introductions? Instead, they just let the family phone tree work it’s magic. Again, very strange.
The sheriff falls INSTANTLY in love with Angelique and she falls for him as well. Even though the true love of her life just died - who was also the father of her baby. More strange.
Angelique introduces herself as “Angel”, but no one EVER called her that in the book. Strange.
And the book is filled with so many extra facts that the readers don’t need. It actually made the book very tedious to read.
The mafia is even mentioned in this book. And the main mafia man decides to come after Angelique himself instead of using one of his hired hands. Yeah, that’s not going to happen in real life.
I could go on and on with many more examples of just how strange this book is. Just trust me.
All in all, this book was not enjoyable.
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review. The opinions stated above are mine without biases.
September 23, 2020
Reviewed for Romancing the Readers Blog: http://www.romancingthereaders.com/20...
I love trying new authors. How else will you know you like someone without giving them a try? Some times you love them and other times, not as much. For me, this book is somewhere in between like and hate.
This is going to be one of those reviews where it seems like one second I liked the book and the next, I don't. The reason for that is because of it kind of sums up how I felt about the book. I liked most of the characters. Some are a little bit over the top but by the end of the book, I came to like them too.
I liked the idea of a woman finding her father a father who didn't know anything about her but it did bother me a big that he didn't do any testing just to make sure. He has money so the idea of someone acting like he was their long lost father wasn't that far fetched.
So I really liked Angelique and her daughter. They seemed real and I felt for what she was going through. Even though she didn't have the easiest upbringing she turned out to be a good, caring person.
I also really liked Derrick. He seemed like a great guy who would do anything for those who he cared about.
Like I mentioned the idea of the story didn't bother me. I liked it and how the story moves. I guess the biggest issue I had was with the writing. I often felt as I read the story that the words coming out of the character's mouths were forced. It was like the author was working way too hard to make them sound young. I almost felt like it was how the author thought they should talk.
It bothered me a ton but even with that, I wanted to know how the story ended. I'm sure we've all had a book or two like that. So I might not have loved it but I did at times enjoy this book. I do feel it was worth the try and I might try the next in the series to see how I like that. Even with the issues I had I was able to quickly read the story so that's saying something.
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ARC received for an honest review
I love trying new authors. How else will you know you like someone without giving them a try? Some times you love them and other times, not as much. For me, this book is somewhere in between like and hate.
This is going to be one of those reviews where it seems like one second I liked the book and the next, I don't. The reason for that is because of it kind of sums up how I felt about the book. I liked most of the characters. Some are a little bit over the top but by the end of the book, I came to like them too.
I liked the idea of a woman finding her father a father who didn't know anything about her but it did bother me a big that he didn't do any testing just to make sure. He has money so the idea of someone acting like he was their long lost father wasn't that far fetched.
So I really liked Angelique and her daughter. They seemed real and I felt for what she was going through. Even though she didn't have the easiest upbringing she turned out to be a good, caring person.
I also really liked Derrick. He seemed like a great guy who would do anything for those who he cared about.
Like I mentioned the idea of the story didn't bother me. I liked it and how the story moves. I guess the biggest issue I had was with the writing. I often felt as I read the story that the words coming out of the character's mouths were forced. It was like the author was working way too hard to make them sound young. I almost felt like it was how the author thought they should talk.
It bothered me a ton but even with that, I wanted to know how the story ended. I'm sure we've all had a book or two like that. So I might not have loved it but I did at times enjoy this book. I do feel it was worth the try and I might try the next in the series to see how I like that. Even with the issues I had I was able to quickly read the story so that's saying something.
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ARC received for an honest review
September 6, 2020
Get ready for some sexy cowboys, strong, determined women and cute kids ready to celebrate Christmas. Little Gabriella is super cute!
Angelique Guillory is on the run with her precious little toddler Gabriella. Gabi's paternal grandfather Alphonse Benoit who is rich, well-connected and very crooked is trying to take Angelique's daughter away from her. His son, Remy who was Gabi's father died in a fire set by Benoit's thugs. Remy and Angelique owned a restaurant together and Benoit was unhappy with the situation. Remy wasn't supposed to be in the restaurant when the fire was set. Angelique's mother Sophie Guillory was Benoit's girlfriend up until the time Sophie passed away from cancer. On her death bed Sophie confessed to Angelique her father's name. So Angelique is on her way to Langston, Texas to finally meet her father Big Jim Garrett. In her mad dash away from New Orleans and Gabi's murderous grandfather Angelique encountered icy roads and slid into a ditch. Sheriff Derrick Shelton comes along and rescued her. Angelique gets to meet Big Jim, his three sons and their families. Big Jim accepts Angelique and Gabi right away. There's no disputing the Garrett blue eyes. Middle son Tyler and his wife Leah welcome them with open arms. Oldest son Colton and his wife Misty are definitely not so welcoming. Colton thinks Angelique is a con artist out to scam his father, not his sister at all. Youngest son Beau and his wife Dixie are neutral. It's Christmas time and this family situation is looking to bring a not-quite-so-merry family Christmas. Angelique's biggest fear is Benoit catching up with her. She hopes the Garret family can all accept her and Gabi and keep them safe. That would be the best Christmas present she could ever receive.
When Sheriff Derrick Shelton sees a car had slid off the side of the road of course he is going to stop to help. He didn't expect the beautiful Angelique Guillory to be the driver of that car. Derrick realizes right away that he wants to get to know this woman better. The attraction to Angelique really zapped him hard. Derrick starts dating Angelique and keeps falling more and more for her and her super cute daughter Gabi. Angelique isn't very forthcoming with a lot of personal information about herself. She seems to avoid that discussion and changes the subject. When a piece of information about Angelique crosses his desk Derrick knows he has to confront Angelique about her past. He knows he will do all he can to protect her.
The Best Cowboy Christmas Ever by June Faver is the first book in her new Garrett Family Saga series. Author June Faver is one of my favorite Cowboy Romance authors. Her stories are liberally sprinkled with great characters, fun dialogue and intriguing plots. I like how Angelique is so protective of little Gabi and how Derrick is so protective of both of "his girls." I first met Big Jim and his family in Ms. Faver's Dark Horse Cowboy series. Great series. This new series looks to be another good one. I couldn't wait to see what would happen next but didn't want the story to end.
Angelique Guillory is on the run with her precious little toddler Gabriella. Gabi's paternal grandfather Alphonse Benoit who is rich, well-connected and very crooked is trying to take Angelique's daughter away from her. His son, Remy who was Gabi's father died in a fire set by Benoit's thugs. Remy and Angelique owned a restaurant together and Benoit was unhappy with the situation. Remy wasn't supposed to be in the restaurant when the fire was set. Angelique's mother Sophie Guillory was Benoit's girlfriend up until the time Sophie passed away from cancer. On her death bed Sophie confessed to Angelique her father's name. So Angelique is on her way to Langston, Texas to finally meet her father Big Jim Garrett. In her mad dash away from New Orleans and Gabi's murderous grandfather Angelique encountered icy roads and slid into a ditch. Sheriff Derrick Shelton comes along and rescued her. Angelique gets to meet Big Jim, his three sons and their families. Big Jim accepts Angelique and Gabi right away. There's no disputing the Garrett blue eyes. Middle son Tyler and his wife Leah welcome them with open arms. Oldest son Colton and his wife Misty are definitely not so welcoming. Colton thinks Angelique is a con artist out to scam his father, not his sister at all. Youngest son Beau and his wife Dixie are neutral. It's Christmas time and this family situation is looking to bring a not-quite-so-merry family Christmas. Angelique's biggest fear is Benoit catching up with her. She hopes the Garret family can all accept her and Gabi and keep them safe. That would be the best Christmas present she could ever receive.
When Sheriff Derrick Shelton sees a car had slid off the side of the road of course he is going to stop to help. He didn't expect the beautiful Angelique Guillory to be the driver of that car. Derrick realizes right away that he wants to get to know this woman better. The attraction to Angelique really zapped him hard. Derrick starts dating Angelique and keeps falling more and more for her and her super cute daughter Gabi. Angelique isn't very forthcoming with a lot of personal information about herself. She seems to avoid that discussion and changes the subject. When a piece of information about Angelique crosses his desk Derrick knows he has to confront Angelique about her past. He knows he will do all he can to protect her.
The Best Cowboy Christmas Ever by June Faver is the first book in her new Garrett Family Saga series. Author June Faver is one of my favorite Cowboy Romance authors. Her stories are liberally sprinkled with great characters, fun dialogue and intriguing plots. I like how Angelique is so protective of little Gabi and how Derrick is so protective of both of "his girls." I first met Big Jim and his family in Ms. Faver's Dark Horse Cowboy series. Great series. This new series looks to be another good one. I couldn't wait to see what would happen next but didn't want the story to end.
June 17, 2020
I really wanted to like this book, but this story line was too unbelievable. It seemed to have gone from zero to love in no time at all and was just too rushed overall. Also felt like it was very disjointed and while also repeating bits from the beginning of the story in later chapters without really changing the phrasing. Just an overall ok but but not one I would recommend or reread.
Also for a sheriff to just believe that the woman he loves didn't have anything to do with a crime because she said so is totally unbelievable. And for him to simply go about his Christmas celebration after someone tries to abduct a child and murder the woman he loves while never checking in on that person is 100% unbelievable.
I'm not sure I can read others by this author for this reason.
Also for a sheriff to just believe that the woman he loves didn't have anything to do with a crime because she said so is totally unbelievable. And for him to simply go about his Christmas celebration after someone tries to abduct a child and murder the woman he loves while never checking in on that person is 100% unbelievable.
I'm not sure I can read others by this author for this reason.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 8, 2020
Reviewed at Keeper Bookshelf
For me, the best way to begin a new series like the Garrett Family Saga is with a Christmas Romance just like The Best Cowboy Christmas Ever. It’s a perfect storm, in my opinion.
This is also a series that has a strong connection to the Dark Horse Cowboys series – and I’ve come to know many of the secondary characters mentioned in The Best Cowboy Christmas Ever quite well over the length of that series. So, in many ways, this was a return to a familiar world to me. Does a new reader have to have read the first series before the Garrett Family Saga? No. I, personally, think it would help but I don’t feel it’s absolutely necessary as this new series can and does stand on its own. That is a decision each reader must make for themselves.
Angelique, along with her toddler daughter, Gabriella is on the run for their lives from Gabi’s grandfather who also happens to be the head of a mafia family. Angel’s husband was killed in a fire at the restaurant she and her husband owned. On her deathbed, Angelique’s mother finally told her the name of her real, biological father — and it is that name that has Angelique and Gabriella running across the country in search of family, safety, and acceptance.
Nearing their destination Angelique’s car runs off the road and it is Sheriff Derrick Shelton who will not only come to their rescue but feels an instant attraction and sense of bonding for them both. It won’t be long now before Angelique comes face to face with her father… Big Jim and that is going to add to the drama, and the tensions she’s dealing with right now. The safe haven in that storm is Derrick, a strong man who isn’t afraid to admit to strong feelings very early in a relationship, and a man who can see both sides of the family drama going on between Angelique and the rest of the Garrett family right now.
If you have not read the Dark Horse Cowboys series, I can plainly see why you would have questions on the why and how of some characters’ actions. I really do see why. For me, I’ve come to know these secondary characters quite well so many are acting exactly as I would expect them to… suspicious and/or welcoming depending on the personality. I’m also very familiar with the Garrett family phone tree – so that was not a surprise at all.
I enjoyed Angelique’s and Derrick’s romance so much – and little Gabi is simply an adorable scene-stealer. The tensions from Angelique’s past are intense, the danger real – but the emotions growing between Derrick and his ladies are also very real and quite obvious.
This first story in the new series felt much like returning home again after being away for a while. I sincerely hope new readers will give the Garrett Family Saga series a chance, and perhaps be curious enough to go back to the earlier books. I had a blast, and I’m eagerly awaiting the next book due out in January of 2021.
*I received an e-ARC of this novel from the publisher, Sourcebooks Casablanca 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.*
For me, the best way to begin a new series like the Garrett Family Saga is with a Christmas Romance just like The Best Cowboy Christmas Ever. It’s a perfect storm, in my opinion.
This is also a series that has a strong connection to the Dark Horse Cowboys series – and I’ve come to know many of the secondary characters mentioned in The Best Cowboy Christmas Ever quite well over the length of that series. So, in many ways, this was a return to a familiar world to me. Does a new reader have to have read the first series before the Garrett Family Saga? No. I, personally, think it would help but I don’t feel it’s absolutely necessary as this new series can and does stand on its own. That is a decision each reader must make for themselves.
Angelique, along with her toddler daughter, Gabriella is on the run for their lives from Gabi’s grandfather who also happens to be the head of a mafia family. Angel’s husband was killed in a fire at the restaurant she and her husband owned. On her deathbed, Angelique’s mother finally told her the name of her real, biological father — and it is that name that has Angelique and Gabriella running across the country in search of family, safety, and acceptance.
Nearing their destination Angelique’s car runs off the road and it is Sheriff Derrick Shelton who will not only come to their rescue but feels an instant attraction and sense of bonding for them both. It won’t be long now before Angelique comes face to face with her father… Big Jim and that is going to add to the drama, and the tensions she’s dealing with right now. The safe haven in that storm is Derrick, a strong man who isn’t afraid to admit to strong feelings very early in a relationship, and a man who can see both sides of the family drama going on between Angelique and the rest of the Garrett family right now.
If you have not read the Dark Horse Cowboys series, I can plainly see why you would have questions on the why and how of some characters’ actions. I really do see why. For me, I’ve come to know these secondary characters quite well so many are acting exactly as I would expect them to… suspicious and/or welcoming depending on the personality. I’m also very familiar with the Garrett family phone tree – so that was not a surprise at all.
I enjoyed Angelique’s and Derrick’s romance so much – and little Gabi is simply an adorable scene-stealer. The tensions from Angelique’s past are intense, the danger real – but the emotions growing between Derrick and his ladies are also very real and quite obvious.
This first story in the new series felt much like returning home again after being away for a while. I sincerely hope new readers will give the Garrett Family Saga series a chance, and perhaps be curious enough to go back to the earlier books. I had a blast, and I’m eagerly awaiting the next book due out in January of 2021.
*I received an e-ARC of this novel from the publisher, Sourcebooks Casablanca via NetGalley. That does not change what I think of this story. It is my choice to leave a review giving my personal opinion about this book.*
February 22, 2022
I really hate giving a bad review on a book. I'm from Texas and I love cowboy romances, but I would hardly call this a romance anyways. There's so many things wrong with this book, I don't even know where to begin.
First of all, I was not given a free copy of this book. I came across it at a bookstore and thought it looked good so I actually bought it and now I regret that I spent money on it.
It had a good premise, it was just very poorly executed. The storyline was from the viewpoint of all of the characters and there were like several stories going on all at once. It hardly even focused on the main couple at all. It was more like a family-centered story with a little bit of romance thrown in there so it could be considered a romance novel.
The main thing about this book is that it doesn't really immerse you into it's world. You don't feel for the characters, you don't feel any excitment or suspense or anything. The story was very blunt and superficial, there were no real feelings or emotions to go through. The couple literally goes from being acquaintances to all of a sudden being "in love" and you're like, wait did I skip a few pages, when did this happen? Where are the flirtatious moments and palpable chemistry between the two main characters that you normally get from these stories? Where's the struggle to come to terms with all the "feels?"
Stories also normally have an arc, building up to the climax and then winding down to the conclusion. This story was flat all the way through. I literally had to force myself to read all the way through this book, which I couldn't even do that. I got halfway through it and just started skipping pages to the "good parts" so I could finally get to the end.
This was my first book from this author, and will unfortunately be my last.
First of all, I was not given a free copy of this book. I came across it at a bookstore and thought it looked good so I actually bought it and now I regret that I spent money on it.
It had a good premise, it was just very poorly executed. The storyline was from the viewpoint of all of the characters and there were like several stories going on all at once. It hardly even focused on the main couple at all. It was more like a family-centered story with a little bit of romance thrown in there so it could be considered a romance novel.
The main thing about this book is that it doesn't really immerse you into it's world. You don't feel for the characters, you don't feel any excitment or suspense or anything. The story was very blunt and superficial, there were no real feelings or emotions to go through. The couple literally goes from being acquaintances to all of a sudden being "in love" and you're like, wait did I skip a few pages, when did this happen? Where are the flirtatious moments and palpable chemistry between the two main characters that you normally get from these stories? Where's the struggle to come to terms with all the "feels?"
Stories also normally have an arc, building up to the climax and then winding down to the conclusion. This story was flat all the way through. I literally had to force myself to read all the way through this book, which I couldn't even do that. I got halfway through it and just started skipping pages to the "good parts" so I could finally get to the end.
This was my first book from this author, and will unfortunately be my last.
September 29, 2020
The Best Cowboy Christmas Ever by June Faver is an exciting cowboy romance. Angelique is on the run from her daughter's grandfather, the head of organized crime in New Orleans, Alphonese Benoit. She had discovered that her father's name was Jim Garrett and he lived in Texas. He mother had shared this information on her deathbed, and Angelique was using it to escape. She hoped she would face a decent welcome. Just out of the last town before the ranch, she ran off the road into a snow bank and was rescued by a good-looking man named Sheriff Derrick Shelton. He helped her get to Big Jim's ranch, where it took moments for her father to recognize his own eyes embedded in not only her face, but in the face of her daughter, Gabrielle. He welcomed her with open arms, as did one of his sons, Tyler, and his wife Leah. The oldest son, Colton, was far less certain and met her with disdain. It was a hard adjustment, but Angelique became used to Big Jim's affection and even more used to the attentions of the Sheriff.
This was an endearing love story, very modern despite the fact I question if someone cold indeed disappear these days. She probably wouldn't have been able to long term. Big Jim was as happy as could be. He remembered her mother with fondness and felt guilty that he had never known she was pregnant, and that Angelique's life was less than perfect. He was the perfect grandfather and this was a nearly perfect romance. It was all about family, small towns, and acceptance. It was a terrific read, perfect for Christmas. I recommend it.
I was invited to read a free ARC of The Best Cowboy Christmas Ever by Netgalley. All opinions and interpretations contained herein are solely my own. #netgalley #thebestcowboychristmasever
This was an endearing love story, very modern despite the fact I question if someone cold indeed disappear these days. She probably wouldn't have been able to long term. Big Jim was as happy as could be. He remembered her mother with fondness and felt guilty that he had never known she was pregnant, and that Angelique's life was less than perfect. He was the perfect grandfather and this was a nearly perfect romance. It was all about family, small towns, and acceptance. It was a terrific read, perfect for Christmas. I recommend it.
I was invited to read a free ARC of The Best Cowboy Christmas Ever by Netgalley. All opinions and interpretations contained herein are solely my own. #netgalley #thebestcowboychristmasever
July 18, 2021
This is a DNF for me I am afraid. After reading the first few chapters I realized this was the same author who wrote Hot target cowboy.That story featured Misty who was truly one of the dimmest and most irritating female characters I have ever come across in a book. When I realized she was also in this story I baled. Got just under half way through. I just couldn't t put myself through that again. The chapters I did read were very lackluster anyway. I found the way the 3 brothers all sat around discussing the sudden arrival on the scene of their illegitmate sister Angelique and her daughter Gabrielle weird. Why didn t they just talk to their father Big Jim about their suspicions? Apparently the girls mother(who has just died,hence why Angelique has come looking for her father) and Big Jim were deeply in love, years before Big Jim met his late wife. She then simply disappeared out of Big Jim's life and never told him she was pregnant. Big Jim talks about how he often wandered what happened to her. Umm hello if your serious girlfriend suddenly disappeared out of your life wouldn't t you try and find her?Wouldnt you be a bit curious? This struck me as bizarre that he did nothing. I just didn t have the patience to grapple with these bunch of yokels a second time. I am not a fan of this author. She almost stereotypes country people as being hicks in the way she portrays them and so old fashioned. Colt wants Misty to give up work so she can get pregnant. For the love of God what century are we living in? Will not be reading anything from this author again. Too many other good books out there.
September 20, 2020
When you read a story so quickly, it can be a good thing or a negative thing. In the case of The Best Cowboy Christmas Ever, it is the first – a good thing.
The Best Cowboy Christmas Ever by June Faver is the first in the Garrett Family Saga series. We meet two new family members: Angelique Guillory and her daughter. Angelique is the daughter of Big Jim and his first college love. She is running from her daughter’s grandfather – a man who haunts Angelique. The two arrive just before Christmas and are saved by Derrick Shelton.
Derrick Shelton is the sheriff of Langston and rescues Angelique and her daughter after spinning out on an icy road. He concocts a plan to see her again at the Garrett ranch and then finds out she is Big Jim’s daughter. He is drawn to Angelique and her daughter and senses they are running from something. He wants to be the something worth staying around for.
Will Derrick and Angelique decide that love, life, and laughter are worth fighting outside forces for? Is Angelique strong enough to trust her heart and her daughter to a man they just met?
**SPOILER will follow**
Even though we see Angelique interact with her brothers, I really didn’t appreciate how hateful Colt and Misty were toward her and her daughter. I know people aren’t perfect, but why emphasize how rude two people whose love story we have already read are capable of being. That is the only negative reaction I had to an otherwise touching story of love, loss, and hope.
The Best Cowboy Christmas Ever by June Faver is the first in the Garrett Family Saga series. We meet two new family members: Angelique Guillory and her daughter. Angelique is the daughter of Big Jim and his first college love. She is running from her daughter’s grandfather – a man who haunts Angelique. The two arrive just before Christmas and are saved by Derrick Shelton.
Derrick Shelton is the sheriff of Langston and rescues Angelique and her daughter after spinning out on an icy road. He concocts a plan to see her again at the Garrett ranch and then finds out she is Big Jim’s daughter. He is drawn to Angelique and her daughter and senses they are running from something. He wants to be the something worth staying around for.
Will Derrick and Angelique decide that love, life, and laughter are worth fighting outside forces for? Is Angelique strong enough to trust her heart and her daughter to a man they just met?
**SPOILER will follow**
Even though we see Angelique interact with her brothers, I really didn’t appreciate how hateful Colt and Misty were toward her and her daughter. I know people aren’t perfect, but why emphasize how rude two people whose love story we have already read are capable of being. That is the only negative reaction I had to an otherwise touching story of love, loss, and hope.
September 27, 2020
This was the first book that I have read by June Favor. I enjoy trying new authors and I do love a good cowboy story.
I really had trouble with the storyline. Angelique is on the run with her daughter heading to Texas. She decides to find her father that she has never met and hopes that he will be able to offer safety and maybe even love. Big Jim knew nothing of Angelique's birth but welcomes her and his granddaughter into his life. I love Big Jim but in the back of my mind I kept wondering why he never went after her mom if he was so in love with her. He just seems like the type who would move a herd of Texas Longhorns to get to someone he loved.
For sheriff Derick Shelton as soon as he lays his eyes on Angelique, he is in love with her. The more time he spend with her and her daughter Gabi, the more he knows they are his future. He tries to get to know Angelique on a deeper level, trying to learn about her past, but she always skirts the topic. When Derrick gets some news at the sheriff's office, he knows he has to force Angelique to open up about her past, also knowing he will do everything in his power to protect the woman he loves.
In the end, the story was good but there were just times when I just didn't get why something was happening or was mentioned for a specific reason but then never brought up again as if it never was a part of the story to begin with...almost an continuity issue in my mind.
I received an advanced reader copy of this book from NetGalley and this is my voluntary and honest review.
I really had trouble with the storyline. Angelique is on the run with her daughter heading to Texas. She decides to find her father that she has never met and hopes that he will be able to offer safety and maybe even love. Big Jim knew nothing of Angelique's birth but welcomes her and his granddaughter into his life. I love Big Jim but in the back of my mind I kept wondering why he never went after her mom if he was so in love with her. He just seems like the type who would move a herd of Texas Longhorns to get to someone he loved.
For sheriff Derick Shelton as soon as he lays his eyes on Angelique, he is in love with her. The more time he spend with her and her daughter Gabi, the more he knows they are his future. He tries to get to know Angelique on a deeper level, trying to learn about her past, but she always skirts the topic. When Derrick gets some news at the sheriff's office, he knows he has to force Angelique to open up about her past, also knowing he will do everything in his power to protect the woman he loves.
In the end, the story was good but there were just times when I just didn't get why something was happening or was mentioned for a specific reason but then never brought up again as if it never was a part of the story to begin with...almost an continuity issue in my mind.
I received an advanced reader copy of this book from NetGalley and this is my voluntary and honest review.
August 29, 2020
I looked forward to reading this book as I had previously read a bit about the Garretts', and this sounded like more goodness to a smalltown Christmas journey, including a big family, big on Christmas.
The surprise was awesome, a wow, didn't see that coming, what's gonna happen now moment. The drama surrounding this gave me mixed feelings, and I felt the writing deteriorated somewhat after that.
I couldn’t get a read on Angelique, nothing about her grabbed me. She had a ton of baggage I didn't feel could be rectified the way it was, or as fast, it was all too pat. I felt the angst and fear, but her not telling anyone is an old trope I am so tired of.
Derrick, I liked, and had to laugh because he HAD to be uncomfortable when feelings escalated. He was now the sheriff, yet still the life long friend of the Garrett brothers, and like a son to Big Jim. Awkward here lol!!
Parts of the book I think would've made fantastic reading were glossed over, like the mixed feelings of the brothers. No one talked much about the actual validation of their thoughts. Why no one dug into the circumstances, like a background check? I mean Misty works at a law office, Derrick is the sheriff.
So the journey didn't flow as well as I like, yet it was interesting for the majority, and I got the Merry Christmas HEA.
I was given an advance reader's copy through Netgalley and am leaving my own thoughts voluntarily.
The surprise was awesome, a wow, didn't see that coming, what's gonna happen now moment. The drama surrounding this gave me mixed feelings, and I felt the writing deteriorated somewhat after that.
I couldn’t get a read on Angelique, nothing about her grabbed me. She had a ton of baggage I didn't feel could be rectified the way it was, or as fast, it was all too pat. I felt the angst and fear, but her not telling anyone is an old trope I am so tired of.
Derrick, I liked, and had to laugh because he HAD to be uncomfortable when feelings escalated. He was now the sheriff, yet still the life long friend of the Garrett brothers, and like a son to Big Jim. Awkward here lol!!
Parts of the book I think would've made fantastic reading were glossed over, like the mixed feelings of the brothers. No one talked much about the actual validation of their thoughts. Why no one dug into the circumstances, like a background check? I mean Misty works at a law office, Derrick is the sheriff.
So the journey didn't flow as well as I like, yet it was interesting for the majority, and I got the Merry Christmas HEA.
I was given an advance reader's copy through Netgalley and am leaving my own thoughts voluntarily.
September 25, 2020
The Best Cowboy Christmas Ever is part of the Garrett Family Saga Series by June Faver. All of Big Jim’s sons have found the perfect woman to love. However, none of them could foresee what was coming in this story especially Big Jim.
I have only read Colt’s and Misty’s book in this series. Thee were not favorite characters of mine. So I wasn’t sure what to expect with Angelique Guillory’s and the town sheriff Derrick Shelton’s story. Well,,, I loved it. From the beginning by the side of the snowy road I was hooked. Then when Angelique meets Big Jim I was unable to put it down. I knew here was more to the story, some reveals along the way. The danger and the suspense it’s all part of her story along with sweet little Gabrielle.
Then I figured how Derrick would fit into it all, sure enough I was right. Of course, Colt is his usual pessimist self. On the whole everyone else was wonderful.
Thanks to The Best Cowboy Christmas Ever I want to read more by June Faver. I am glad that I tried another Garrett book. I am hooked just not with Colt. I especially liked how early on Big Jim gave the inspiration for the title of this book. It certainly was the best cowboy Christmas ever for more than just Big Jim.
4.5 Stars
An ARC of the book was provided by the publisher through NetGalley which I voluntarily chose to read and reviewed. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I have only read Colt’s and Misty’s book in this series. Thee were not favorite characters of mine. So I wasn’t sure what to expect with Angelique Guillory’s and the town sheriff Derrick Shelton’s story. Well,,, I loved it. From the beginning by the side of the snowy road I was hooked. Then when Angelique meets Big Jim I was unable to put it down. I knew here was more to the story, some reveals along the way. The danger and the suspense it’s all part of her story along with sweet little Gabrielle.
Then I figured how Derrick would fit into it all, sure enough I was right. Of course, Colt is his usual pessimist self. On the whole everyone else was wonderful.
Thanks to The Best Cowboy Christmas Ever I want to read more by June Faver. I am glad that I tried another Garrett book. I am hooked just not with Colt. I especially liked how early on Big Jim gave the inspiration for the title of this book. It certainly was the best cowboy Christmas ever for more than just Big Jim.
4.5 Stars
An ARC of the book was provided by the publisher through NetGalley which I voluntarily chose to read and reviewed. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
September 15, 2020
I absolutely loved this wonderfully written story about a daughter finding her long lost father and her new half brothers. Angelique arrives at Garrett Ranch with her daughter, Gabrielle. Big Jim takes one look at Angel and Gabi and knows she’s telling the truth, they’re his daughter and granddaughter. She is running from Gabi’s fraternal grandfather, Alphonse Benoit. Derrick Shelton, the sheriff, is attracted to Angelique from the start. Colt, the oldest Garrett brother, believes Angel is a scam artist and he doesn’t believe her story. Misty, his wife, supports her husband’s decision. If you enjoy family reads that have each other’s backs when it counts, you will love this beautifully told story.
I received an advanced reader copy of this book from NetGalley and this is my voluntary and honest review.
I received an advanced reader copy of this book from NetGalley and this is my voluntary and honest review.
September 21, 2020
A pleasant western romance and a beautiful start to the Garrett Family saga. Angelique Guillory flees New Orleans after her mother’s death. She has just learned that Big Jim Garrett is her father and he lives in Texas. With the need to run, Texas is a good place to start. She is welcomed by Big Jim as he wasn’t aware that he had a daughter by his former college sweetheart. Sheriff Derrick Shelton met Angelique when her car slid off the road on the way to her father’s ranch. He is immediately attracted to her and her daughter Gabrielle. Will Angelique’s three half-brothers accept her in to the family? What will happen when Gabrielle’s grandfather from New Orleans continues to track them? I received an advance review copy at no cost and without obligation for an honest review. (by paytonpuppy)
October 13, 2020
This is a voluntary review of an advanced copy.
This was a bit different than most romances as Angelique and Derrick fell for each other almost right away and the conflict was not between them but the fact that Angelique was Big Jim's daughter from before his marriage so all his kids were shocked. One son was kind of "ok" but nothing more or less, another was very accepting, and the last was sure that she was a scam artist and not accepting at all.
It was kind of hard to read about a previous couple and see that they were so mean spirited towards Angelique but then in the end, Colt came through for his half-sister.
Lots of action, drama, and a sweet romance along with the previous couples from the series as we learn more about Angelique and her past. I was kind of glad that the past part did not get drawn out too long and was pretty quickly resolved.
This was a bit different than most romances as Angelique and Derrick fell for each other almost right away and the conflict was not between them but the fact that Angelique was Big Jim's daughter from before his marriage so all his kids were shocked. One son was kind of "ok" but nothing more or less, another was very accepting, and the last was sure that she was a scam artist and not accepting at all.
It was kind of hard to read about a previous couple and see that they were so mean spirited towards Angelique but then in the end, Colt came through for his half-sister.
Lots of action, drama, and a sweet romance along with the previous couples from the series as we learn more about Angelique and her past. I was kind of glad that the past part did not get drawn out too long and was pretty quickly resolved.
September 9, 2020
What could be better than cowboys and Christmas?
The Best Cowboy Christmas Ever has a lot of romantic suspense with Angelique Guillory on the run from New Orleans to protect her daughter to a lot of romance between Angelique and Derrick Shelton, the local sheriff. Angelique is searching for James Garrett because her mother said that he was her father but when she finds him but her oldest brother isn’t so sure about her being their sister leading to all sorts of family issues in the Garrett family.
If you cowboy romances with a lot of suspense, you will like The Best Cowboy Christmas Ever because cowboy romance are even better when they are set at Christmas time.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
The Best Cowboy Christmas Ever has a lot of romantic suspense with Angelique Guillory on the run from New Orleans to protect her daughter to a lot of romance between Angelique and Derrick Shelton, the local sheriff. Angelique is searching for James Garrett because her mother said that he was her father but when she finds him but her oldest brother isn’t so sure about her being their sister leading to all sorts of family issues in the Garrett family.
If you cowboy romances with a lot of suspense, you will like The Best Cowboy Christmas Ever because cowboy romance are even better when they are set at Christmas time.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
September 8, 2020
If you love Christmas and cowboys this is a must read this Christmas season. Angelique and her daughter Gabrielle leave New Orleans quickly and head to Langston, Texas where she finds a whole family that she never knew she had. Most of them accept her on her word but a few are skeptical. Angelique has secrets - she is in danger and some one from her past will not rest until he has what he wants. Will Angelique and Gabrielle get to stay in Texas and be part of a huge family Christmas with the people she is starting to love? Thank you to NetGalley, the publisher and the author, June Faver for an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
October 5, 2020
This is a cowboy book that I am glad to have read. I love the Garrett family and Derrick as well. So many great characters in this story make me excited for the next book. It has Christmas, family drama, tension, some parts will thrill you, others will make you sad or angry. It is a wonderful book to start the holidays with. If you read this book, you will learn about a great father- daughter relationship, love for their grandchildren, the overprotection of a great family man and so on. I feel that you will not be disappointed or able to put it down. I hope you enjoy the book as well as the characters and great story. Happy reading!
-Rebeca
-Rebeca
October 9, 2020
The Best Cowboy Christmas Ever has it all: cowboys, a surprise family, romantic suspense, and Christmas! I liked Derrick and Angelique and little Gabrielle. I also liked Angelique's new family (even if some didn't welcome her with open arms).
This book stretched the imagination a little (can anyone really disappear in this day and age?), but overall it was a fun, feel-good, small-town romance with intriguing suspense and lots of great characters. A perfect read for the holidays.
I received a copy of this book via Sourcebooks Early Reads program. My thoughts and opinions are my own and without bias or favor.
This book stretched the imagination a little (can anyone really disappear in this day and age?), but overall it was a fun, feel-good, small-town romance with intriguing suspense and lots of great characters. A perfect read for the holidays.
I received a copy of this book via Sourcebooks Early Reads program. My thoughts and opinions are my own and without bias or favor.
November 15, 2020
THE BEST COWBOY CHRISTMAS EVER is June Faver’s first book of the Garret Family Saga. When handsome town sheriff Derrick Shelton meets Angelique Guillory and her young daughter at the Garret family ranch, he is immediately drawn to the woman. Angelique is a woman on the run but finds the family she never knew that became her safe haven. With a little Christmas magic along with the loving support of the Garret family, Angelique finds courage, love, and acceptance. In THE BEST COWBOY CHRISTMAS EVER, June Faver creates a vulnerable heroine, a strong family ties, and Christmas of love to confront suspicions and danger.
December 18, 2020
Great Story
Angelique is on the run from her child's grandfather who is a horrible man. Derrick..town sheriff pulls Angelique out of the ditch and directs her in the right direction on a cold and snowy night. Big Jim see's this beautiful gal and knows without a doubt she is his daughter. He welcomes her with open arms. She must show she is there for right reasons..family. Derrick is surprised to learn Angelique is there and asks her iut and lets her know how he feels..and will take his time with her..and he cares about her and Gabi. Derrick is there for her and will guard her with his life along with the Garrett Family.
Angelique is on the run from her child's grandfather who is a horrible man. Derrick..town sheriff pulls Angelique out of the ditch and directs her in the right direction on a cold and snowy night. Big Jim see's this beautiful gal and knows without a doubt she is his daughter. He welcomes her with open arms. She must show she is there for right reasons..family. Derrick is surprised to learn Angelique is there and asks her iut and lets her know how he feels..and will take his time with her..and he cares about her and Gabi. Derrick is there for her and will guard her with his life along with the Garrett Family.
September 14, 2020
Angelique grabbed her daughter Gsbi and fled the wrath of Gabi's father's family. She's landed in Texas, where she hopes to find and be accepted by the man her mother identified as her father. James Garrett is a wealthy man with a family that is both skeptical and welcoming. Then she meets Derrick Shelton, the local sheriff who is almost another Garrett son. You know what's going to happen and it does- but it's. good read. You will root for this couple. Thanks to Netgalley for the ARC. A light read.
October 7, 2020
This is book one in a new series. Angelique is on the run from her daughter's grandfather, a dangerous organized crime family in New Orleans. She is searching for the father she never knew. When she finds him she finally feels safe and learns what family means. And the handsome sexy town sherriff shows her the meaning of Christmas and love. A Christmas suspense story. I'm really looking forward the next books in this new series.
Thank you Source Books Casablanca.
Dawnny Ruby
Novels N Latte Review
Hudson Valley NY
Thank you Source Books Casablanca.
Dawnny Ruby
Novels N Latte Review
Hudson Valley NY
July 18, 2020
I read this book in one day. The story is well written and the suspense had me on edge the entire book. Would she run, would she survive to run? Will the oldest brother accept her or will he stick to his "scam artist" view?
This review was given off an arc provided by the author. However, that did not influence m review. I read the book in one day. I didn't want to put it down. A real page turner.
This review was given off an arc provided by the author. However, that did not influence m review. I read the book in one day. I didn't want to put it down. A real page turner.
September 20, 2020
The Best Cowboy Christmas Ever is the first book in June Faver’s Garrett Family Saga and was seriously lacking compared with other books by this author. The story overall was disjointed, and the mundane accounts of daily activities was boring and overdone. I also found some characters unlikeable, and the relationships were far-fetched and unbelievable. I’m not sure if I’ll read the next in this series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 4, 2021
This was my first book by June Faver and I enjoyed her story but it had a tendency to go a little show. Angelique Guillory showed up at the Garrett compound announcing that she was Big Jim’s daughter that he did know about. The Garrett’s had a common link of a beautiful blue eye color and she and her daughter both had the eye color. She was accepted by Big Jim and one of his three sons. The story takes you through the family dynamics right up to Christmas Day.
November 1, 2024
If I am being honest when I checked this book out at the library I hid the cover in fear my husband and oldest daughter would make fun of me for it. I did have judgment it was going to be a cheesy western romance novel but I was wrong! It was SO good and I loved how the author was able to change the characters POVS without it messing up the flow of the book. It was a real page turner and what all of us "little girls" want in life. A good family, a great daddy and a great man.
August 28, 2020
Heartwarming Christmas story about a family who gets a new gift of a new family member. Angelique might appear out of nowhere, but she’s desperate to escape a bad guy. Luckily, her newfound father is crazy about her, and so is Gabe. Gabe will do anything to protect her. But someone else will do anything to find her. Cowboys, Christmas, with love and suspense makes this an all-around great read.
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