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Tangled Up in Texas #1
Cowboy Up
He’d never mixed business with pleasure…until now When Dallas Granger left his family's Last Stand, Texas, ranch, he hadn't planned on returning. But when a medical emergency calls him home and a legal matter affects his business, suddenly his family isn't the only thing in need of a re-build. Unfortunately his new project involves building a house for a woman who not only awakens his desires, but also his fears. But if he wants to claim her as his own, he'll have to tear down the walls he's built around his heart.
Single mom Ashley Anderson knows all about juggling. Between an assortment of part-time jobs and raising her sixteen-year old daughter, she doesn't need a hunky construction worker with an attitude as a distraction. Even one who steps in to help her when she needs it most. But life has taught Ashley that when the going gets tough, she's on her own. It's going to take a man with a Texas-sized heart to show her that this cowboy isn't going anywhere.
Single mom Ashley Anderson knows all about juggling. Between an assortment of part-time jobs and raising her sixteen-year old daughter, she doesn't need a hunky construction worker with an attitude as a distraction. Even one who steps in to help her when she needs it most. But life has taught Ashley that when the going gets tough, she's on her own. It's going to take a man with a Texas-sized heart to show her that this cowboy isn't going anywhere.
314 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 20, 2019
567 people are currently reading
286 people want to read
About the author
Michelle Beattie
17 books112 followersInternational bestselling author Michelle Beattie has been writing since 1995. She sold her first book, What a Pirate Desires, in 2007.
Since then she finished her 5 book pirate series, wrote a well-received historical western series and is currently writing a contemporary romance series.
Despite the genre, you'll find Michelle likes to write about strong women and characters that'll linger in your heart long after the book is done.
Since then she finished her 5 book pirate series, wrote a well-received historical western series and is currently writing a contemporary romance series.
Despite the genre, you'll find Michelle likes to write about strong women and characters that'll linger in your heart long after the book is done.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 78 reviews
August 20, 2019
Check out all of my reviews at: https://www.avonnalovesgenres.com
COWBOY UP (Tangles Up in Texas Book One) by Michelle Beattie is a contemporary cowboy romance that is the start of a new series by a new-to-me author. This first book focuses on the oldest of five brothers and the single mom he meets working on a Houses of Hope (similar to Habitat for Humanity) project.
Dallas Granger loves building beautiful things. From cabinets to houses, he started his own construction company when he left the family ranch. As he is trying to take care of a problem one of his employees caused, he gets tangled up with the law. Then his brother calls to tell him his father is in the hospital and he is going to need help with the ranch. He does not know how he will find the time to deal with everything.
When Dallas is assigned to volunteer for Houses of Hope, he is not happy. He believes the people who receive the homes get them for free (not true), but he feels he worked to build his company from scratch and everyone else should work for what they have, too. When he gets to the work-site he is instantly attracted to the blonde helping with construction. When he finds out the home is for her, he is surprised and not very gracious.
Ashley Anderson juggles a number of part-time jobs to support herself and her sixteen-year-old daughter. She pinches every penny and the last thing she needs to deal with is a cowboy with an attitude problem. She has worked her whole life to stand on her own since she was a teen mom and does not need the judgement.
But as Dallas and Ashley get to know each other, they find they cannot stop their attraction. Dallas has a lot of family baggage to deal with and a broken engagement has left his heart closed off. Will he break Ashley’s heart or will he prove he can open his own?
This is a good start to the series, but there is a lot going on which somewhat detracts from adding more depth to the hero and heroine. I could relate to Ashley and her life, but Dallas really had trust issues that I thought were over blown. That said, they were a good couple and I loved when they talked out their issues and Dallas was a romantic. The sex scenes were realistic and romantic. I also, enjoyed Ashley and her daughter, Brittany’s relationship. It was nice to not have to read about a stereotypical problem teen.
I will be looking forward to reading the other brothers’ stories and having the family secret revealed.
COWBOY UP (Tangles Up in Texas Book One) by Michelle Beattie is a contemporary cowboy romance that is the start of a new series by a new-to-me author. This first book focuses on the oldest of five brothers and the single mom he meets working on a Houses of Hope (similar to Habitat for Humanity) project.
Dallas Granger loves building beautiful things. From cabinets to houses, he started his own construction company when he left the family ranch. As he is trying to take care of a problem one of his employees caused, he gets tangled up with the law. Then his brother calls to tell him his father is in the hospital and he is going to need help with the ranch. He does not know how he will find the time to deal with everything.
When Dallas is assigned to volunteer for Houses of Hope, he is not happy. He believes the people who receive the homes get them for free (not true), but he feels he worked to build his company from scratch and everyone else should work for what they have, too. When he gets to the work-site he is instantly attracted to the blonde helping with construction. When he finds out the home is for her, he is surprised and not very gracious.
Ashley Anderson juggles a number of part-time jobs to support herself and her sixteen-year-old daughter. She pinches every penny and the last thing she needs to deal with is a cowboy with an attitude problem. She has worked her whole life to stand on her own since she was a teen mom and does not need the judgement.
But as Dallas and Ashley get to know each other, they find they cannot stop their attraction. Dallas has a lot of family baggage to deal with and a broken engagement has left his heart closed off. Will he break Ashley’s heart or will he prove he can open his own?
This is a good start to the series, but there is a lot going on which somewhat detracts from adding more depth to the hero and heroine. I could relate to Ashley and her life, but Dallas really had trust issues that I thought were over blown. That said, they were a good couple and I loved when they talked out their issues and Dallas was a romantic. The sex scenes were realistic and romantic. I also, enjoyed Ashley and her daughter, Brittany’s relationship. It was nice to not have to read about a stereotypical problem teen.
I will be looking forward to reading the other brothers’ stories and having the family secret revealed.
February 15, 2020
3.75 Stars.
Wow, this book is angsty. The angst is not only between the hero and heroine either. Dallas Granger has three younger brothers who resent him for a few reasons. He also has a father, who is now in the hospital, who he hasn't gotten along with. In fact, his father is in a coma so one of Dallas' brothers is left alone to work the ranch. He can't do it by himself and demands Dallas help as well as the others. While Dallas is frustrated he is needed, it isn't because he resents the ranch or his brothers, even though they are angry with him, but because he has his own company to run and it will be difficult to find time. But because he is tired of the animosity between himself and his family, he makes it work. There seems to be something mysterious going on regarding his father that was not resolved at the end of the book. I suspect that aspect will carry through the series with the other brother's books.
Ashley is a hard working woman, a single mother raising and providing for her teenaged daughter on her own. When a bit of good fortune comes her way, Ashley works even harder to see that through. Even if a rude, judgmental construction worker/cowboy takes offense to her. I'll admit, there are moments in this book where our hero's assumptions are frustrating. I admit to not liking Dallas very much through a good portion of the book. In addition, I wasn't sure he deserved Ashley. Along the way, however, Dallas learns a few lessons. And thankfully he learns from them so that he and Ashley can move forward.
I did like how the book turned out and the ending was sweet and well deserved for all. I'll say my curiosity is definitely piqued and I am going to be looking out for the next book in the series. Other than seeing how the Granger brothers find their happily-ever-after, I am eager to learn about the mystery surrounding their father.
This is my honest and unbiased review. Thank you for taking the time to read it. :)
Wow, this book is angsty. The angst is not only between the hero and heroine either. Dallas Granger has three younger brothers who resent him for a few reasons. He also has a father, who is now in the hospital, who he hasn't gotten along with. In fact, his father is in a coma so one of Dallas' brothers is left alone to work the ranch. He can't do it by himself and demands Dallas help as well as the others. While Dallas is frustrated he is needed, it isn't because he resents the ranch or his brothers, even though they are angry with him, but because he has his own company to run and it will be difficult to find time. But because he is tired of the animosity between himself and his family, he makes it work. There seems to be something mysterious going on regarding his father that was not resolved at the end of the book. I suspect that aspect will carry through the series with the other brother's books.
Ashley is a hard working woman, a single mother raising and providing for her teenaged daughter on her own. When a bit of good fortune comes her way, Ashley works even harder to see that through. Even if a rude, judgmental construction worker/cowboy takes offense to her. I'll admit, there are moments in this book where our hero's assumptions are frustrating. I admit to not liking Dallas very much through a good portion of the book. In addition, I wasn't sure he deserved Ashley. Along the way, however, Dallas learns a few lessons. And thankfully he learns from them so that he and Ashley can move forward.
I did like how the book turned out and the ending was sweet and well deserved for all. I'll say my curiosity is definitely piqued and I am going to be looking out for the next book in the series. Other than seeing how the Granger brothers find their happily-ever-after, I am eager to learn about the mystery surrounding their father.
This is my honest and unbiased review. Thank you for taking the time to read it. :)
July 18, 2019
This book had a lot of good reviews and the book was not bad it just was not as good as I thought it would be, well at least not for me. We have two people with loads of problems. We have single mother Ashley trying to survive on multiple jobs for her and her daughter and she is barely making ends meet but she will do what she has to do. She ends up meeting hottie Dallas at work sight where he is tasked with helping to build her new home, and they have instant attraction but when Dallas finds out that this home is for her he turns cold and judgemental thinking that she is just one of those lazy people that like things handed to them. When he finds out that she is a hard worker he realizes he judged her incorrectly and they start to build a relationship but more incorrect issues arise when he again judges her wrong and then has to apologize. I do not need to follow anymore of the family.
Rcvd and ARC at no cost to author..(netgalley) Voluntarily reviewed with my own thoughts and opinions
Rcvd and ARC at no cost to author..(netgalley) Voluntarily reviewed with my own thoughts and opinions
September 8, 2020
I really liked reading about Ashley and Dallas and their stories. I hated to put book down. I loved the story and reading about Dallas and Ashley's stories and how they manage each day. But what happens when Ashley meets this cocky cowboy? Guess you got to read the book to find out. I will tell you you'll love the ending.
Highly recommend book. Will read again.
Highly recommend book. Will read again.
July 18, 2019
Ashley Anderson is a single mom whose daughter, Brittany is now sixteen years old. Ashley struggles with finances and has multiple part-time jobs doing the books for several small companies. She is having a house built by the volunteer agency House of Hope. This requires her to volunteer many hours helping to build the house and she will still have a mortgage to pay. Dallas Granger grew up on the Diamond G Ranch and struggled there after the death of his mother who died from cancer. He had to help out a lot with his younger brothers when his father was so overwhelmed by grief that he wrapped himself up in the ranch work and neglected the boys. Dallas always wanted to build things so left the ranch when his brothers were old enough to care for themselves to start his own construction company. When one of his employees steals a nailgun from the local hardware store while on company time Dallas fires him and decides to return the stolen nailgun himself. On his way to the hardware store he is stopped by a police officer and even though he explains he is returning the stolen item he is charged as an accessory and must pay a fine and do community service. He is assigned to help build Ashley's house. Their first meeting doesn't go so well even though they are physically attracted to each other. Due to their personal issues they don't quite mesh personality-wise. Then they get to know each other better and do a lot of talking. Their relationship keeps getting better and better. Will they manage to overcome their issues and get together permanently?
Cowboy Up by Michelle Beattie is the first book in her new Tangled in Texas series. She does a great job of taking two people with lots of personal issues and getting them together. I loved the romantic touches Dallas did when they went on their first dates. Truly perfectly romantic! There are surprises and interesting interactions throughout the story. The relationship between Ashley and her daughter was pleasant to read about. Not all teenagers would be as thoughtful as Brittany. This was a very enjoyable read and I am sure true romantics will love it.
Cowboy Up by Michelle Beattie is the first book in her new Tangled in Texas series. She does a great job of taking two people with lots of personal issues and getting them together. I loved the romantic touches Dallas did when they went on their first dates. Truly perfectly romantic! There are surprises and interesting interactions throughout the story. The relationship between Ashley and her daughter was pleasant to read about. Not all teenagers would be as thoughtful as Brittany. This was a very enjoyable read and I am sure true romantics will love it.
August 20, 2019
Reviewed at Keeper Bookshelf
COWBOY UP begins Michelle Beattie’s Tangled Up in Texas series, one of the many individual series set in Last Stand Texas. It’s also her step into the Contemporary Romance genre, and as I’ve loved her Historical Romances (especially those about early Marietta, Montana) finding COWBOY UP was a particular delight for me.
If there was ever a character I almost immediately wanted to give a smack upside the head Gibbs style, give a very stern talking to and a comforting hug in one fell swoop it was Dallas. Man does this guy have trust issues. And assumptions out the kazoo. And we all know what is said about “assume”, yeah, it did that, too. I understood why, for the most part, but I was certainly waiting for him to grow up and take control of his attitude that had no place in this situation at all.
Ashley hasn’t been handed an easy life. Yet she does not let that stop her from doing her best for her daughter, juggling several jobs, barely keeping it together and find time to work on the house that she hopes will soon be their new home. Her first impression of Dallas was – awkward. Handsome as sin on a stick with attitude beyond belief. How could she possibly be attracted to this jerk?
COWBOY UP kept me on my toes as both Ashley and Dallas have serious issues that need to be dealt with before they find their happy ending. Dallas will show his true colors, his heart, in his actions. It will be up to Ashley to believe in them, and in him.
You’ll find some interesting secondary characters around Last Stand, Texas. Brothers who also have their own tales to be told and issues to come to terms with eventually. This is a good beginning to a series that already has me fascinated and wanting more. I’d recommend Dallas and Ashley’s story to any reader who loves second chances, a change of attitude, and a couple to hope for their happy future.
*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.*
COWBOY UP begins Michelle Beattie’s Tangled Up in Texas series, one of the many individual series set in Last Stand Texas. It’s also her step into the Contemporary Romance genre, and as I’ve loved her Historical Romances (especially those about early Marietta, Montana) finding COWBOY UP was a particular delight for me.
If there was ever a character I almost immediately wanted to give a smack upside the head Gibbs style, give a very stern talking to and a comforting hug in one fell swoop it was Dallas. Man does this guy have trust issues. And assumptions out the kazoo. And we all know what is said about “assume”, yeah, it did that, too. I understood why, for the most part, but I was certainly waiting for him to grow up and take control of his attitude that had no place in this situation at all.
Ashley hasn’t been handed an easy life. Yet she does not let that stop her from doing her best for her daughter, juggling several jobs, barely keeping it together and find time to work on the house that she hopes will soon be their new home. Her first impression of Dallas was – awkward. Handsome as sin on a stick with attitude beyond belief. How could she possibly be attracted to this jerk?
COWBOY UP kept me on my toes as both Ashley and Dallas have serious issues that need to be dealt with before they find their happy ending. Dallas will show his true colors, his heart, in his actions. It will be up to Ashley to believe in them, and in him.
You’ll find some interesting secondary characters around Last Stand, Texas. Brothers who also have their own tales to be told and issues to come to terms with eventually. This is a good beginning to a series that already has me fascinated and wanting more. I’d recommend Dallas and Ashley’s story to any reader who loves second chances, a change of attitude, and a couple to hope for their happy future.
*I received an e-ARC of this novel from the publisher via NetGalley. That does not change what I think of this story. It is my choice to leave a review giving my personal opinion about this book.*
August 5, 2019
'Cowboy Up' is a fitting title for what feels to be a modern-day romance with hints of old fashioned values thrown in.
Dallas has some "burs" to remove from his attitude. So his getting thrown into a forehead smack of a situation leading to his ninety-day penance must be fate in disguise.
Not that Dallas sees the House of Hope or the sassy no-nonsense blonde Ashley at first!
Ashley, a juggler of life, has way soo many tasks thrown up in the air. An unplanned gust of wind would send all of her carefully mapped out days crashing to the ground.
So the judgemental and ridiculously handsome Dallas is an evil, frustrating and delicious distraction, one she is sure her heart, and bottom line cannot afford.
Both come with a host of past and present "baggage" together they seem to make something else entirely.
A plethora of emotions run through the pages of this story. My liking of characters varied from scene to scene- they had a " real feel " to them while other parts seemed so out there it. I had trouble meshing the two together!
That aside, the heart of the storyline was sweet, witty, frustrating, with bolts of heat, eye-opening emotions Cowboy Romance! Some of those plots twists! I am curious to see what becomes of them, as well as the other characters further in the series.
A first-time reader of Michelle Beattie, I enjoyed this book, read it one sitting and look forward to more from her soon!
4 Stars!
Dallas has some "burs" to remove from his attitude. So his getting thrown into a forehead smack of a situation leading to his ninety-day penance must be fate in disguise.
Not that Dallas sees the House of Hope or the sassy no-nonsense blonde Ashley at first!
Ashley, a juggler of life, has way soo many tasks thrown up in the air. An unplanned gust of wind would send all of her carefully mapped out days crashing to the ground.
So the judgemental and ridiculously handsome Dallas is an evil, frustrating and delicious distraction, one she is sure her heart, and bottom line cannot afford.
Both come with a host of past and present "baggage" together they seem to make something else entirely.
A plethora of emotions run through the pages of this story. My liking of characters varied from scene to scene- they had a " real feel " to them while other parts seemed so out there it. I had trouble meshing the two together!
That aside, the heart of the storyline was sweet, witty, frustrating, with bolts of heat, eye-opening emotions Cowboy Romance! Some of those plots twists! I am curious to see what becomes of them, as well as the other characters further in the series.
A first-time reader of Michelle Beattie, I enjoyed this book, read it one sitting and look forward to more from her soon!
4 Stars!
August 21, 2019
Cowboy Up is the first of the brand new contemporary series, Tangled Up in Texas by Michelle Beattie. I know this author mainly as a historical romance writer specially as the author of the Frontier Marietta Series. I enjoyed this switch up in time with the new series.
It is titled Cowboy Up but Dallas now runs his own construction firm in San Antonia, Texas. Before the story has gone too far he needs to return to Last Stand, Texas. His brothers and he fit the name of the town to a T. It seems that they are often at each other’s throat with the desire to be the last brother standing when the fighting is over. Proud, stubborn men which makes them chips off the old block, there is still hope for each one. Dallas is oldest, has preconceived notions, and is stubborn to a fault. On the plus side he is a hard worker and loves his family though not one of them knows how to show it to each other.
Single mom Ashley Anderson is hard working, never gives up and is the best thing to ever happen to Dallas. Of course, Dallas does not think this when he is assigned to her housing project. Still I like a man who is teachable, able to admit when he is wrong and good at heart. Gives us hope for the proud stubborn men in the world.
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.
It is titled Cowboy Up but Dallas now runs his own construction firm in San Antonia, Texas. Before the story has gone too far he needs to return to Last Stand, Texas. His brothers and he fit the name of the town to a T. It seems that they are often at each other’s throat with the desire to be the last brother standing when the fighting is over. Proud, stubborn men which makes them chips off the old block, there is still hope for each one. Dallas is oldest, has preconceived notions, and is stubborn to a fault. On the plus side he is a hard worker and loves his family though not one of them knows how to show it to each other.
Single mom Ashley Anderson is hard working, never gives up and is the best thing to ever happen to Dallas. Of course, Dallas does not think this when he is assigned to her housing project. Still I like a man who is teachable, able to admit when he is wrong and good at heart. Gives us hope for the proud stubborn men in the world.
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.
June 25, 2019
A sweet and easy read. I loved the characters, the story line and the easy writing style. This is the first time I’ve read anything from this author, and I am glad I gave this book a chance...I do love finding new authors to add to my easy read one click list!!
I really enjoyed getting lost in this book and especially love the dynamics of the different relationships in the book. These brothers are certainly going to set a few hearts on fire!! Dallas, well he was strong and determined, and forever putting his foot in his mouth, but then he owned his mistakes and I think that’s why I loved him so much. Ashley, well what can you say, a true warrior, she was everything I love to read in female leads. She was strong, independent, opinionated and diplomatic. She knew exactly when to ‘give and take’.
All in all this book was a lovely read and introduction to this author. Can’t wait to see what’s up next for the Granger brothers...I do hope there is a story for each of them!
I really enjoyed getting lost in this book and especially love the dynamics of the different relationships in the book. These brothers are certainly going to set a few hearts on fire!! Dallas, well he was strong and determined, and forever putting his foot in his mouth, but then he owned his mistakes and I think that’s why I loved him so much. Ashley, well what can you say, a true warrior, she was everything I love to read in female leads. She was strong, independent, opinionated and diplomatic. She knew exactly when to ‘give and take’.
All in all this book was a lovely read and introduction to this author. Can’t wait to see what’s up next for the Granger brothers...I do hope there is a story for each of them!
August 20, 2019
Loved this story of Ashley and Dallas, both with troubled pasts that find HEA. Ashley is a single parent barely making ends meet when she meets Dallas, owner of a construction company and oldest brother of four brothers. Dallas offers to help Ashley out in a job at the ranch doing book keeping, soon a friendship develops into so much more.
Ashley is a very strong female character and does not expect to be handed anything free, she works hard for what she has. Dallas had to grow up young with the death of his mother and take over the raising of his younger brothers. Now with his dad in the hospital, he has more responsibility with the ranch.
This book has a sweet but sexy romance along with plenty of family drama that will keep you turning the pages. This is Michelle Beattie's first contemporary romance (she has written pirate stories in the past), and I'm looking forward to reading many more.
Ashley is a very strong female character and does not expect to be handed anything free, she works hard for what she has. Dallas had to grow up young with the death of his mother and take over the raising of his younger brothers. Now with his dad in the hospital, he has more responsibility with the ranch.
This book has a sweet but sexy romance along with plenty of family drama that will keep you turning the pages. This is Michelle Beattie's first contemporary romance (she has written pirate stories in the past), and I'm looking forward to reading many more.
August 22, 2019
OMG! I've volunteered to review this book for United Indie Book Blog. This is my first time reading a book from Michelle Beattie. This is the first time reading one of Michelle Beattie books. Cowboy Up is the beginning book in the Tangled Up in Texas series. This story is about Dallas and Ashley. Single mom Ashley Anderson is hard working, never gives up. While Dallas grew up on the Diamond G Ranch but he runs his own construction firm. Ashley and Dallas have instant chemistry. Ashley has multiple part-time jobs to provide for her sixteen year old daughter. Dallas is assigned to volunteer for Houses of Hope, and he is not happy. This book has a sweet but sexy romance along with plenty of family drama that will keep you turning the pages. Look forward to see what the rest of the series brings to us. What a great way to start a new series. I highly recommend this book! Keep up the awesome work!
review by CHANTELLE
review by CHANTELLE
August 20, 2019
Ashley is a hardworking, devoted single Mom to Brittany. She works many jobs just to make the bills each month. When she signs on for House of Hope program to get a home for herself and her daughter she has one more job to do, help build what would be her forever home. This puts her on the path to meeting Dallas Granger a local man who runs a construction company, and former rancher. You'll feel like your right in the middle of this wonderful romance! This was a book I didn't want to put down and am wishing I could keep reading about the future of Dallas and Ashley!
August 8, 2019
A good start to the Tangled Up in Texas series, Cowboy Up, is a sweet romantic story. I liked the characters and the story and will look to read more.
October 14, 2019
Cowboy Up is the first novel in Michelle Beattie's Tangled Up in Texas series, and it's the second novel of hers I've read, the first one being an historical romance. It's a well-written novel, with an interesting cast of characters but there were a few things that kept it from being a great read, and so I'm giving it 3 stars
Dallas Granger, the hero, is the oldest among his three brothers, who live and work on the family ranch, but ranching wasn't what Dallas wanted--his dream was to own and operate a construction company, but, while still in his teens, his mother was diagnosed with cancer, and as her illness progressed, their father simply checked out emotionally, working himself to death to avoid seeing his dying wife, and leaving Dallas to not only care for his dying mother but also leaving him to act as a father to his younger brothers--something they deeply resented, and more than a dozen years later, the brothers are still holding grudges. Eventually Dallas built his company from the ground up and is successful, but a phone call from home brings him back to the family ranch. His father has had a stroke/heart attack, was rushed to the hospital and is in a coma. Dallas needs to devote some time to the ranch, and once again face his resentful brothers.
As if that wasn't enough, Dallas discovers that one of his employees, while running an errand to the hardware store, stole a nail gun from a nearby truck. He immediately fires the man, and is en route to the police station to return the stolen item to the police, when his truck is pulled over and he's accused of stealing the nail gun. Even though he explains the situation to the officer, he's charged with possession of stolen property and the judge orders him to pay a large fine and do 60 hours of community service. Since he's a builder, he's told to spend his 60 hours working at Houses for Hope, something akin to Habitat for Humanity, but a bit more upscale, and he objects because he doesn't support the cause, automatically assuming that these are houses that will be given away to people who are too poor and too lazy to work. Judgmental much?
The heroine, Ashley Anderson is a single mom, working at least 3 jobs, 6 days a week just to keep a roof over her and her 16-year-old daughter's head and food on the table. When Ashley became pregnant at 16, her parents disowned her, the father of her child wanted nothing to do with her, but did agree to pay some child support and has never even seen his daughter. In addition to all her jobs, she also volunteers what little free time she has to working at Houses for Hope, because one of the houses they're building will be hers--she'll have a mortgage payment every month, but she'll finally have a place that belongs to her.
As soon as Dallas first arrives to begin his community service, he spots and is attracted to pretty, blonde Ashley, and she's equally impressed by tall, handsome, sexy Dallas, that is until he finds out the the house they're building will be hers, and judgmental Dallas does an about-face on his attraction to her. When Ashley sees a homeless man picking up construction trash and putting it in the dumpster, she tries to talk to him and when she needs a bit of help, she asks him and her boss if he can volunteer--it's quite clear he knows how to use a hammer and nails, and, of course, judgmental Dallas automatically assumes he's just scoping out items to see after the workday ends.
Once Dallas gets to see Ashley's work ethic and learn more about her, his attraction grows, but once again, he finds a list of his pros and cons that Ashley's friend started writing when Ashley first mentioned Dallas to her, and in the pros column he notices dollar signs. Once again, he decides that Ashley ai a gold-digger, just like his former fiance, who he discovered only wanted him for his money. When she explains to him that she didn't even write the list, he apologizes but his doubt is still there.
By the time I got this far into the novel, I truly disliked Dallas, and no matter how apologetic he was, he never really changed his negative opinion of anyone, nor did he learn the error of his ways. Yes, he was attracted to Ashley and impressed with her beauty, her kindness and her work ethic, but when Dallas' 8-month's pregnant office manager has to suddenly be taken to the hospital, Ashley, who was there dropping off a gift for Dallas, agrees to close up, as Dallas suggests when she calls him for instructions. At the last minute, a client rushes in with his final payment for a job Dallas did for him. Not wanting to leave an envelope full of cash lying around in an office she can't lock up, she puts the envelope full of cash into her purse and heads off to her next job.
If you're thinking that Dallas is going to accuse her of stealing the money as soon as he hears from his client who tells him he left the payment with Dallas' pretty new secretary, and then sees her in a new pair of jeans and new boots, you're right, he does just that. Ashley tells him that she locked the money in the glove compartment of his truck for safekeeping, and leaves him, their planned weekend alone in cinders and Ashley in tears, hurt by his accusations and his mistrust and brokenhearted over the fact that when she finally finds a man she can love, he thinks so little of her.
Of course, the breakup isn't the end of this novel, it's a romance after all, so there's a rather quickly arrived at HEA ending awaiting you, but quite honestly, Dallas isn't a man I'd easily forgive if I could forgive him at all. Sure, these two characters have great sexual chemistry, and we see plenty of that, but although Dallas professes his love for Ashley and his regret at accusing her of stealing from him, I would not have forgiven him or taken him back, no mater how apologetic he professed to be, since I truly believe that leopards don't change their spots.
Cowboy Up is not a bad read, as I said at the outset, it's well-written, the characters are well-developed, and I liked the fact that this novel was written with alternating narration, but my dislike of hero truly affected my ability to forgive or trust him, and my desire to see the heroine find a better man than Dallas, no matter how sexy and handsome he was. Finally, the title of this novel, Cowboy Up, made no sense to this reader.
I voluntarily read an advance reader copy of this novel. The opinions expressed are my own.
Dallas Granger, the hero, is the oldest among his three brothers, who live and work on the family ranch, but ranching wasn't what Dallas wanted--his dream was to own and operate a construction company, but, while still in his teens, his mother was diagnosed with cancer, and as her illness progressed, their father simply checked out emotionally, working himself to death to avoid seeing his dying wife, and leaving Dallas to not only care for his dying mother but also leaving him to act as a father to his younger brothers--something they deeply resented, and more than a dozen years later, the brothers are still holding grudges. Eventually Dallas built his company from the ground up and is successful, but a phone call from home brings him back to the family ranch. His father has had a stroke/heart attack, was rushed to the hospital and is in a coma. Dallas needs to devote some time to the ranch, and once again face his resentful brothers.
As if that wasn't enough, Dallas discovers that one of his employees, while running an errand to the hardware store, stole a nail gun from a nearby truck. He immediately fires the man, and is en route to the police station to return the stolen item to the police, when his truck is pulled over and he's accused of stealing the nail gun. Even though he explains the situation to the officer, he's charged with possession of stolen property and the judge orders him to pay a large fine and do 60 hours of community service. Since he's a builder, he's told to spend his 60 hours working at Houses for Hope, something akin to Habitat for Humanity, but a bit more upscale, and he objects because he doesn't support the cause, automatically assuming that these are houses that will be given away to people who are too poor and too lazy to work. Judgmental much?
The heroine, Ashley Anderson is a single mom, working at least 3 jobs, 6 days a week just to keep a roof over her and her 16-year-old daughter's head and food on the table. When Ashley became pregnant at 16, her parents disowned her, the father of her child wanted nothing to do with her, but did agree to pay some child support and has never even seen his daughter. In addition to all her jobs, she also volunteers what little free time she has to working at Houses for Hope, because one of the houses they're building will be hers--she'll have a mortgage payment every month, but she'll finally have a place that belongs to her.
As soon as Dallas first arrives to begin his community service, he spots and is attracted to pretty, blonde Ashley, and she's equally impressed by tall, handsome, sexy Dallas, that is until he finds out the the house they're building will be hers, and judgmental Dallas does an about-face on his attraction to her. When Ashley sees a homeless man picking up construction trash and putting it in the dumpster, she tries to talk to him and when she needs a bit of help, she asks him and her boss if he can volunteer--it's quite clear he knows how to use a hammer and nails, and, of course, judgmental Dallas automatically assumes he's just scoping out items to see after the workday ends.
Once Dallas gets to see Ashley's work ethic and learn more about her, his attraction grows, but once again, he finds a list of his pros and cons that Ashley's friend started writing when Ashley first mentioned Dallas to her, and in the pros column he notices dollar signs. Once again, he decides that Ashley ai a gold-digger, just like his former fiance, who he discovered only wanted him for his money. When she explains to him that she didn't even write the list, he apologizes but his doubt is still there.
By the time I got this far into the novel, I truly disliked Dallas, and no matter how apologetic he was, he never really changed his negative opinion of anyone, nor did he learn the error of his ways. Yes, he was attracted to Ashley and impressed with her beauty, her kindness and her work ethic, but when Dallas' 8-month's pregnant office manager has to suddenly be taken to the hospital, Ashley, who was there dropping off a gift for Dallas, agrees to close up, as Dallas suggests when she calls him for instructions. At the last minute, a client rushes in with his final payment for a job Dallas did for him. Not wanting to leave an envelope full of cash lying around in an office she can't lock up, she puts the envelope full of cash into her purse and heads off to her next job.
If you're thinking that Dallas is going to accuse her of stealing the money as soon as he hears from his client who tells him he left the payment with Dallas' pretty new secretary, and then sees her in a new pair of jeans and new boots, you're right, he does just that. Ashley tells him that she locked the money in the glove compartment of his truck for safekeeping, and leaves him, their planned weekend alone in cinders and Ashley in tears, hurt by his accusations and his mistrust and brokenhearted over the fact that when she finally finds a man she can love, he thinks so little of her.
Of course, the breakup isn't the end of this novel, it's a romance after all, so there's a rather quickly arrived at HEA ending awaiting you, but quite honestly, Dallas isn't a man I'd easily forgive if I could forgive him at all. Sure, these two characters have great sexual chemistry, and we see plenty of that, but although Dallas professes his love for Ashley and his regret at accusing her of stealing from him, I would not have forgiven him or taken him back, no mater how apologetic he professed to be, since I truly believe that leopards don't change their spots.
Cowboy Up is not a bad read, as I said at the outset, it's well-written, the characters are well-developed, and I liked the fact that this novel was written with alternating narration, but my dislike of hero truly affected my ability to forgive or trust him, and my desire to see the heroine find a better man than Dallas, no matter how sexy and handsome he was. Finally, the title of this novel, Cowboy Up, made no sense to this reader.
I voluntarily read an advance reader copy of this novel. The opinions expressed are my own.
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September 1, 2019 Cowboy Up is Book one in the Tangled Up In Texas Series.
Dallas Granger owns his own construction company. He loves to build beautiful things. He is all about making his business’s a success. That is until a misunderstanding with the law winds up with him having community service.
The service that is picked for him is Houses of Hope. Dallas already hates the idea. He believes these type of charities just give free stuff to lazy people who don’t want to work for themselves and earn their keep. That is until he meets Ashley Anderson! When he arrives on site he meets Ashley and is automatically attracted to her! That is until he find out the house he is helping to build – is for her!
Ashley Anderson is a single mother to sixteen year old Brittany, working multiple part time jobs just to make ends meet. She scrapes by and saves every penny! She signs up for Houses for Hope and when she is chosen to receive a house, she jumps head first into helping She is a honest, hard working woman who doesn’t want or need judged by some construction company cowboy with a preconceived notion of who or what she is all about!
Dallas comes with a lot of family baggage and drama. He harbors a lot of resentment to his father who basically bailed on the family after his mom passes away from cancer. Dallas had to become the responsible one! He became the caretaker for his four brothers. And in the end, the ranch life was not what he wanted! He wanted to own his own construction company, so he left home to do just that! Now he visits maybe once or twice a year! That is until his father ends up in the hospital! One of his brothers demands he make time to keep the family ranch moving!
I enjoyed this first book in this series! I so look forward to seeing what the future holds for the other Granger brothers! If you are into contemporary cowboy romance with family drama I recommend this quick read! Also this was my first time reading Michelle Beattie and I am now fan!
Dallas Granger owns his own construction company. He loves to build beautiful things. He is all about making his business’s a success. That is until a misunderstanding with the law winds up with him having community service.
The service that is picked for him is Houses of Hope. Dallas already hates the idea. He believes these type of charities just give free stuff to lazy people who don’t want to work for themselves and earn their keep. That is until he meets Ashley Anderson! When he arrives on site he meets Ashley and is automatically attracted to her! That is until he find out the house he is helping to build – is for her!
Ashley Anderson is a single mother to sixteen year old Brittany, working multiple part time jobs just to make ends meet. She scrapes by and saves every penny! She signs up for Houses for Hope and when she is chosen to receive a house, she jumps head first into helping She is a honest, hard working woman who doesn’t want or need judged by some construction company cowboy with a preconceived notion of who or what she is all about!
Dallas comes with a lot of family baggage and drama. He harbors a lot of resentment to his father who basically bailed on the family after his mom passes away from cancer. Dallas had to become the responsible one! He became the caretaker for his four brothers. And in the end, the ranch life was not what he wanted! He wanted to own his own construction company, so he left home to do just that! Now he visits maybe once or twice a year! That is until his father ends up in the hospital! One of his brothers demands he make time to keep the family ranch moving!
I enjoyed this first book in this series! I so look forward to seeing what the future holds for the other Granger brothers! If you are into contemporary cowboy romance with family drama I recommend this quick read! Also this was my first time reading Michelle Beattie and I am now fan!
August 31, 2021
I thought the story was okay.It stared up interesting and I liked Ashley and Dallas, cute couple. The story started to drag a third of the way through.
April 28, 2020
Last week, I read and reviewed Cowboy Wild, the third book in Michelle Beattie’s Tangled Up in Texas series. This week, I returned to Texas, to read book #1, Cowboy Up. This is the story of Dallas Granger and Ashley Anderson. Dallas, the oldest Granger son, removed twelve years from his father’s ranch… also removed from his brothers: Ryker, Hudson, Gage, and Cam. He’s a self-made owner of his own construction company. He’s strong, hard-working, handsome, opinionated, stubborn, and dumb.
Ashley Anderson is a single mom of her sixteen-year old daughter. She has raised her daughter Brittany, a wonderful young lady, all by herself… struggling to maintain their lives. Ashley works seven part-time jobs and volunteers with the charity, House of Hope, who is constructing a home for Ashley and Brittany. Dallas and Ashley meet at the House of Hope project, where Dallas is completing required community service hours.
Dallas’ estranged father, after a cardiac episode, is left in a coma. The brothers can maintain their jobs, and the ranch… but they need a bookkeeper to maintain the ranch’s paperwork. Ashley saves the day! Ashley and Dallas’s mutual attraction grows and flourishes, but is derailed by Dallas’s dumb actions which cause Ashley deep, heartfelt pain. Will he understand his error? Will Ashley forgive him? Will they both rekindle their love? Michelle Beattie writes very detailed and intricate stories. Cowboy Up is a fitting foundation for this new, grand series.
Ashley Anderson is a single mom of her sixteen-year old daughter. She has raised her daughter Brittany, a wonderful young lady, all by herself… struggling to maintain their lives. Ashley works seven part-time jobs and volunteers with the charity, House of Hope, who is constructing a home for Ashley and Brittany. Dallas and Ashley meet at the House of Hope project, where Dallas is completing required community service hours.
Dallas’ estranged father, after a cardiac episode, is left in a coma. The brothers can maintain their jobs, and the ranch… but they need a bookkeeper to maintain the ranch’s paperwork. Ashley saves the day! Ashley and Dallas’s mutual attraction grows and flourishes, but is derailed by Dallas’s dumb actions which cause Ashley deep, heartfelt pain. Will he understand his error? Will Ashley forgive him? Will they both rekindle their love? Michelle Beattie writes very detailed and intricate stories. Cowboy Up is a fitting foundation for this new, grand series.
August 23, 2019
This is the first book I have read by Michelle. I really liked it. Dallas Granger owns his own construction company and comes from a ranching family. While he isn’t close to his family anymore is there for them when they need him. Ashley Anderson is a single mother working her but off. She doesn’t have time to date nor does she want to. Dallas finds himself in a bit of a situation. He gets some community service. This leads him to meeting Ashley. Ashley is getting a home through Houses for Hope. Dallas has a chip on his shoulder about certain things. People getting things they don’t earn is on one them. Ashley has worked for everything she has ever got. She has raised her daughter by herself. Neither Ashely nor Dallas have ever had it easy. I really enjoyed this book and I look forward to reading the next book in the series. Dallas and Ashley are great characters. They manage to help each other in ways that surprise both of them. Ashley hasn’t really had anyone to help her or be there for her since her daughter was born. Dallas had a lot of responsibility thrust upon him when he was young. Dallas has a habit of messing things up. He isn’t great about communicating and he does jump to conclusions. This book has romance, angst, and is emotional at times. I look forward to reading more books by Michelle in the future.
August 30, 2019
Set in and around San Antonio, Texas Cowboy Up has been a light and thoroughly entertaining read but with a serious heart that lifts it from just a quick beach read into something a little bit more intense.
Dallas is a strong hero, an honourable man who has tried to do right by his family and his community no matter the personal cost, yet he has a skewed view of life and carries some prejudices which chip into the perfect facade he presents to the world.
Ashley is also strong. She’s struggled to make a life for herself and her daughter since discovering she was pregnant at the age of sixteen and being thrown out of her family home as a result. She’s not afraid of hard work and she knows all about sacrifice. I like that her work ethic and her ability to judge people makes Dallas question his own beliefs. Ashley is a woman to admire and respect.
With his father sick in hospital and communication with his brothers at an all time low, Dallas has a lot to handle emotionally while also struggling to fit in time to run his business, help on the ranch and work on building Ashley’s house. I couldn’t help but feel for him.
I loved this book, loved the story, and loved the people that populated it. A perfect weekend read!
Dallas is a strong hero, an honourable man who has tried to do right by his family and his community no matter the personal cost, yet he has a skewed view of life and carries some prejudices which chip into the perfect facade he presents to the world.
Ashley is also strong. She’s struggled to make a life for herself and her daughter since discovering she was pregnant at the age of sixteen and being thrown out of her family home as a result. She’s not afraid of hard work and she knows all about sacrifice. I like that her work ethic and her ability to judge people makes Dallas question his own beliefs. Ashley is a woman to admire and respect.
With his father sick in hospital and communication with his brothers at an all time low, Dallas has a lot to handle emotionally while also struggling to fit in time to run his business, help on the ranch and work on building Ashley’s house. I couldn’t help but feel for him.
I loved this book, loved the story, and loved the people that populated it. A perfect weekend read!
November 24, 2019
He’d never mixed business with pleasure…until now When Dallas Granger left his family's Last Stand, Texas, ranch, he hadn't planned on returning. But when a medical emergency calls him home and a legal matter affects his business, suddenly his family isn't the only thing in need of a re-build. Unfortunately his new project involves building a house for a woman who not only awakens his desires, but also his fears. But if he wants to claim her as his own, he'll have to tear down the walls he's built around his heart. Single mom Ashley Anderson knows all about juggling. Between an assortment of part-time jobs and raising her sixteen-year old daughter, she doesn't need a hunky construction worker with an attitude as a distraction. Even one who steps in to help her when she needs it most. But life has taught Ashley that when the going gets tough, she's on her own. It's going to take a man with a Texas-sized heart to show her that this cowboy isn't going anywhere.
This was an ok book.I didn’t really care for Dallas throughout the book. I think part of it is more my past as a struggling single parent rather than the author’s writing though. I did like Ashley though which put me on the fence about the entire story.
**I voluntarily read and reviewed this book
This was an ok book.I didn’t really care for Dallas throughout the book. I think part of it is more my past as a struggling single parent rather than the author’s writing though. I did like Ashley though which put me on the fence about the entire story.
**I voluntarily read and reviewed this book
September 2, 2019
OMG! I've volunteered to review this book for United Indie Book Blog. This is my first time reading a book from Michelle Beattie. This is the first time reading one of Michelle Beattie books. Cowboy Up is the beginning book in the Tangled Up in Texas series. This story is about Dallas and Ashley. Single mom Ashley Anderson is hard working, never gives up. While Dallas grew up on the Diamond G Ranch but he runs his own construction firm. Ashley and Dallas have instant chemistry. Ashley has multiple part-time jobs to provide for her sixteen year old daughter. Dallas is assigned to volunteer for Houses of Hope, and he is not happy. This book has a sweet but sexy romance along with plenty of family drama that will keep you turning the pages. Look forward to see what the rest of the series brings to us. What a great way to start a new series. I highly recommend this book! Keep up the awesome work!
June 10, 2019
I really enjoyed this book as well as the characters. They were deep and really came to life and I especially loved what a strong independent female Ashley was. Often times in romance novels you get a woman who is very needy and reliant entirely on the man who comes into her life. This is not the case with Ashley who makes the decision about wanting and loving her man rather than needing him.
As the beginning of a series this was great, you got enough of a glimpse into the rest of the Granger brothers and their personalities that you already become invested in them and can’t wait to hear their story. The little mystery surrounding an acquaintance of their father’s also leaves you with a little cliffhanger you can’t wait to find out about. Definitely got me hooked and I’ll be anxiously awaiting more stories from the Granger brothers
As the beginning of a series this was great, you got enough of a glimpse into the rest of the Granger brothers and their personalities that you already become invested in them and can’t wait to hear their story. The little mystery surrounding an acquaintance of their father’s also leaves you with a little cliffhanger you can’t wait to find out about. Definitely got me hooked and I’ll be anxiously awaiting more stories from the Granger brothers
July 22, 2019
4 stars. I've had quite a few DNF lately so I'm glad this was a book I could see to the end. In fact, I enjoyed this book and liked that the characters had baggage and had a chance to get to know each other as well as deal with family and life. Dallas had some sweet moments and some stupid moments as well. The family drama add a nice side story that I'm sure carries through the series. I did think that some of the conflict was very obvious and a reader could see coming for a mile, but it was enjoyable to see how they overcame said conflict. Overall, an good story. *I received an ARC of this book from NetGalley and this is my voluntary and honest review.
August 20, 2019
This is the first book I’ve read by this author and I will definitely be reading more. It is awesome to get a book and it’s the beginning of a series and I can’t wait to see how this series progresses. The only downfall that I see to this story is she focused entirely too much on the secondary characters in Ashley in Dallas‘s story, their romance, was like an afterthought. I know the premise was to set up for books later in the series but I would’ve liked it if she concentrated more on Ashley in Dallas because after all it was their book. Overall it was a great story and I look forward to the next installment in the series.
September 23, 2019
I love discovering new to me authors. Michelle Beattie offers a solid romance to kick off her new series. I found the main couple in Cowboy Up to be engaging, their conversations were interesting and their journey to happily ever after entertaining. I especially appreciated the sharpness of the dialogue, it fit both character and situation. I understood that the book would be a little out of balance because of the need to introduce the series, and at times I wished for a bit more of the romance. I look forward to novels featuring the other brothers, and to the solution of a mystery that I believe will flow through the series.
I received my copy through NetGalley under no obligation.
I received my copy through NetGalley under no obligation.
September 26, 2019
Michelle Beattie it giving us a book where Dallas Granger truly has to Cowboy up to get things in life in order. From his employees, his family and his harsh unfair judgement of the woman receiving a home is court order to work on. Ashley works several jobs to be able to make ends meet and qualify for the house for her and her 16 year old daughter Brittany. She works a multitude a jobs and doesn't take kindly when the handsome stranger judges her when doesn't even know her.
will the relationship between these help mend some fences in the direction on Dallas and brothers only time will tell..
Excellent read.
will the relationship between these help mend some fences in the direction on Dallas and brothers only time will tell..
Excellent read.
August 18, 2020
So this is an author I have read and enjoyed before, but wow the feelings these pages made me feel, from the overwhelming responsibility of a new mom looking into her baby’s eyes through the crib bars to the pride of a homeless man feels doing a good job as he volunteers to help build a home for this mom and her now teenage daughter, with each page I’m pulled in and feeling the story.
This is a book I will be recommending to friends so they can feel the joys and pains of the pages as I did.
This is a book I will be recommending to friends so they can feel the joys and pains of the pages as I did.
August 30, 2019
I really enjoyed Dallas and Ashley’s story. I thought this was a really nice way to kick off a new series. Ashley is such an inspirational character. She depicts the determination, dedication and sacrifice of a single mother to make a great life for their children. Dallas is such a great guy it was interesting to watch his transformation through out the book. I am looking forward to the next book in this series.
June 23, 2021
Grabbed as a free read and a new author for me.
Dallas is just too judgemental and loves to jump to conclusions and accuse before getting the facts.
Yes, he was duped by his ex fiancée but to make assumptions is wrong.
Why Ashley ever accepted his apology or took him back was beyond my comprehension.
Ties up extremely quickly after Dallas apologises as Ashley has already forgiven him by applying for a job working for Dallas.
Cannot say I was invested in this problematic family of men.
Dallas is just too judgemental and loves to jump to conclusions and accuse before getting the facts.
Yes, he was duped by his ex fiancée but to make assumptions is wrong.
Why Ashley ever accepted his apology or took him back was beyond my comprehension.
Ties up extremely quickly after Dallas apologises as Ashley has already forgiven him by applying for a job working for Dallas.
Cannot say I was invested in this problematic family of men.
August 20, 2019
I voluntarily read a advanced reader's copy of this book for a honest opinion.
Cowboy Up by Michelle Beattie.
A great start to a new series The Tangled up in Texas series.
I enjoyed the characters especially the storyline between the main characters Dallas and Ashley.
Look forward to see what the rest of the series brings to us.
Cowboy Up by Michelle Beattie.
A great start to a new series The Tangled up in Texas series.
I enjoyed the characters especially the storyline between the main characters Dallas and Ashley.
Look forward to see what the rest of the series brings to us.
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