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The Ryan Family #2
Texas Homecoming
The bestselling Queen of Cowboy Romance delivers a heartwarming novel where a doctor and veterinarian get a second chance at true love when a storm traps them together.
After traveling the world, Dr. Cody Ryan has finally come home to his foster family’s ranch in Honey Grove, Texas. But all his time in Doctors Without Borders couldn’t have prepared him for the sudden blizzard that forces him to take shelter in an old barn—or for the shock of watching Stephanie O’Dell yank open that same barn door minutes later. He’s barely seen the gorgeous veterinarian since he returned, so why is she icier than the wind outside?
Stephanie—better known as Dr. Stevie around Sunflower Ranch—has been treating the cattle there for years…and not one of them is as bullheaded as Cody. He’s completely forgotten how he broke her heart, back when she was a teenager smitten by his easy charm and sharp wit. But as the blizzard rages on, trapping Cody and Stevie together, it’s clear that the fire they’ve built to keep warm isn’t the only source of sparks in that barn. Once the storm passes, will Stevie and Cody discover that they’ve fallen in love …and will either of them ever admit it?
After traveling the world, Dr. Cody Ryan has finally come home to his foster family’s ranch in Honey Grove, Texas. But all his time in Doctors Without Borders couldn’t have prepared him for the sudden blizzard that forces him to take shelter in an old barn—or for the shock of watching Stephanie O’Dell yank open that same barn door minutes later. He’s barely seen the gorgeous veterinarian since he returned, so why is she icier than the wind outside?
Stephanie—better known as Dr. Stevie around Sunflower Ranch—has been treating the cattle there for years…and not one of them is as bullheaded as Cody. He’s completely forgotten how he broke her heart, back when she was a teenager smitten by his easy charm and sharp wit. But as the blizzard rages on, trapping Cody and Stevie together, it’s clear that the fire they’ve built to keep warm isn’t the only source of sparks in that barn. Once the storm passes, will Stevie and Cody discover that they’ve fallen in love …and will either of them ever admit it?
313 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published January 25, 2022
338 people are currently reading
444 people want to read
About the author
Carolyn Brown
181 books4,116 followersHi! I'm twenty five years old and movie star gorgeous. The camera added thirty plus years and a few wrinkles. Can't trust those cameras or mirrors either. Along with bathroom scales they are notorious liars! Honestly, I am the mother of three fantastic grown children who've made me laugh and given me more story ideas than I could ever write. My husband, Charles, is my strongest supporter and my best friend. He's even willing to eat fast food and help with the laundry while I finish one more chapter! Life is good and I am blessed!
Reading has been a passion since I was five years old and figured out those were words on book pages. As soon as my chubby little fingers found they could put words on a Big Chief tablet with a fat pencil, I was on my way. Writing joined reading in my list of passions. I will read anything from the back of the Cheerio's box to Faulkner and love every bit of it. In addition to reading I enjoy cooking, my family and the ocean. I love the Florida beaches. Listening to the ocean waves puts my writing brain into high gear.
I love writing romance because it's about emotions and relationships. Human nature hasn't changed a bit since Eve coveted the fruit in the Garden of Eden. Settings change. Plots change. Names change. Times change. But love is love and men and women have been falling in and out of it forever. Romance is about emotions: love, hate, anger, laughter... all of it. If I can make you laugh until your sides ache or grab a tissue then I've touched your emotions and accomplished what every writer sets out to do.
I got serious about writing when my third child was born and had her days and nights mixed up. I had to stay up all night anyway and it was very quiet so I invested in a spiral back notebook and sharpened a few pencils. The story that emerged has never sold but it's brought in enough rejection slips to put the Redwood Forest on the endangered list. In 1997 Kensington bought two books for their Precious Gems line. Two years and six books later the line died with only four of those books seeing publication. But by then Avalon had bought a book and another, and another. Ten years later the list has grown to thirty nine. Last year Sourcebooks bought the Lucky Series which is in the bookstores now. They've also bought The Honky Tonk Series which will debut with I LOVE THIS BAR in June and will be followed by HELL, YEAH, MY GIVE A DAMN'S BUSTED, and HONKY TONK CHRISTMAS.
Folks ask me where I get my ideas. Three kids, fifteen grandchildren, two great grandchildren. Note: I was a very young grandmother! Life is a zoo around here when they all come home. In one Sunday afternoon there's enough ideas to keep me writing for years and years. Seriously, ideas pop up at the craziest times. When one sinks its roots into my mind, I have no choice but to write the story. And while I'm writing the characters peek over my shoulder and make sure I'm telling it right and not exaggerating too much. Pesky little devils, they are!
I have a wonderful agent, Erin Niumata, who continues to work magic and sell my work. I'm very lucky to have her and my editors who continue to believe in me.
Happy reading!
Reading has been a passion since I was five years old and figured out those were words on book pages. As soon as my chubby little fingers found they could put words on a Big Chief tablet with a fat pencil, I was on my way. Writing joined reading in my list of passions. I will read anything from the back of the Cheerio's box to Faulkner and love every bit of it. In addition to reading I enjoy cooking, my family and the ocean. I love the Florida beaches. Listening to the ocean waves puts my writing brain into high gear.
I love writing romance because it's about emotions and relationships. Human nature hasn't changed a bit since Eve coveted the fruit in the Garden of Eden. Settings change. Plots change. Names change. Times change. But love is love and men and women have been falling in and out of it forever. Romance is about emotions: love, hate, anger, laughter... all of it. If I can make you laugh until your sides ache or grab a tissue then I've touched your emotions and accomplished what every writer sets out to do.
I got serious about writing when my third child was born and had her days and nights mixed up. I had to stay up all night anyway and it was very quiet so I invested in a spiral back notebook and sharpened a few pencils. The story that emerged has never sold but it's brought in enough rejection slips to put the Redwood Forest on the endangered list. In 1997 Kensington bought two books for their Precious Gems line. Two years and six books later the line died with only four of those books seeing publication. But by then Avalon had bought a book and another, and another. Ten years later the list has grown to thirty nine. Last year Sourcebooks bought the Lucky Series which is in the bookstores now. They've also bought The Honky Tonk Series which will debut with I LOVE THIS BAR in June and will be followed by HELL, YEAH, MY GIVE A DAMN'S BUSTED, and HONKY TONK CHRISTMAS.
Folks ask me where I get my ideas. Three kids, fifteen grandchildren, two great grandchildren. Note: I was a very young grandmother! Life is a zoo around here when they all come home. In one Sunday afternoon there's enough ideas to keep me writing for years and years. Seriously, ideas pop up at the craziest times. When one sinks its roots into my mind, I have no choice but to write the story. And while I'm writing the characters peek over my shoulder and make sure I'm telling it right and not exaggerating too much. Pesky little devils, they are!
I have a wonderful agent, Erin Niumata, who continues to work magic and sell my work. I'm very lucky to have her and my editors who continue to believe in me.
Happy reading!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 137 reviews
February 23, 2022
This is a second chance cowboy romance, and this is the second book in the Ryan Family series. I have read and review the first book in this book series already. I have to say the characters in this book really grow on me. I love how it took the how strong well both of the main characters where, and you could tell they both really loved each other. I love this family too. This book takes places during winter, so if you are looking for a winter romance read this book is for you. I really enjoyed all the snow in times during this book, and I felt the winter weather was done really well during this book. I love this book also pulled some of the things the happen in the first book. I was kindly provided an e-copy of this book by the publisher (Forever) or author (Carolyn Brown) via NetGalley, so I can give an honest review about how I feel about this book. I want to send a big Thank you to them for that.
February 17, 2022
Stephanie, “Stevie” the local vet, is back in her hometown after her mother fell ill and passed. She’s not thrilled to discover that her first love Cody Ryan is back in town as well, since he crushed her heart years ago.
Cody Ryan came home after a long stint away, working for Doctors Without Borders. He’s back since his father’s health is in decline wanting to spend all the time he can with him and help around the family ranch. Stevie’s been prickly every time they run into each other, but they’re going to have to get along when a massive winter storm strands them together in an old barn with only a baby alpaca and kittens to keep them company.
Forced proximity and second chance are such fun romantic tropes! Add in cute animals and Texas Homecoming was an all-around win for me. I love Carolyn Brown’s cowboy romances! Small town charm, quirky characters, and low drama make her stories familiar and welcome.
A copy was kindly provided by Forever in exchange for an honest review.
Cody Ryan came home after a long stint away, working for Doctors Without Borders. He’s back since his father’s health is in decline wanting to spend all the time he can with him and help around the family ranch. Stevie’s been prickly every time they run into each other, but they’re going to have to get along when a massive winter storm strands them together in an old barn with only a baby alpaca and kittens to keep them company.
Forced proximity and second chance are such fun romantic tropes! Add in cute animals and Texas Homecoming was an all-around win for me. I love Carolyn Brown’s cowboy romances! Small town charm, quirky characters, and low drama make her stories familiar and welcome.
A copy was kindly provided by Forever in exchange for an honest review.
March 25, 2022
If you have been following my blog for awhile, it will come as no surprise as to how much I love reading Carolyn Brown! TEXAS HOMECOMING is exactly why! She makes me want to pack my bags and run to wherever her book setting takes place!
TEXAS HOMECOMING is a slow burn contemporary story that I was pulled in to from the very first page. To be honest, I fell in love with the cover the minute I saw it. I knew I would read it anyway, because I love Carolyn Brown, but the cover really pulled me in. You all know how much covers scream to me, over and over again! I loved everything about this beautiful story and I’m excited to recommend it to my reading friends. Carolyn Brown always has a way of grabbing her readers and she never lets us go.
TEXAS HOMECOMING really takes a turn that will have you unable to put this beautiful story down. Neither Stephanie or Cody are looking for a relationship, but they can’t seem to ignore their growing feelings. Stephanie(Stevie) loved Cody many years ago and it seems like those feelings never went away. If only they would admit it! TEXAS HOMECOMING is the second book in the Ryan Family series. An unexpected blizzard brings them face to face with her resentment and his regrets of breaking her heart and leaving, as they struggle to stay alive. This is a wonderful second chance romance story. I was emotionally invested in this story from the very beginning. We have Cody and Stevie crossing paths and each time, there is a pull to see more of each other. This causes all sorts of rumors and gossip. It was cute watching these two dance around their feelings for each other. Cody was Stevie’s first love and he broke her heart way back then.
TEXAS HOMECOMING is filled with twists and turns and had me staying up way too late one night to finish! I had to know where Carolyn Brown was taking us and what would happen to Stevie and Cody. I really loved how the whole community came to Cody and Stevie’s aid and only wanted them to feel loved and realize that they were home. There is so much heart in Carolyn’s writing that I’m always left with a huge smile on my face and my heart very happy. I could totally see TEXAS HOMECOMING becoming a Hallmark movie and I would love to see it. All of the characters are very interesting and believable, so much so that I felt as if I’ve known them for a long time. I would love to hang out with Addy and Mia. I’m sure they could teach me a thing or two and I know they would keep my laughing all day long! I love how Carolyn Brown does that to me each and every time.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Forever and Grand Central Publishing. All opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given.
TEXAS HOMECOMING is a slow burn contemporary story that I was pulled in to from the very first page. To be honest, I fell in love with the cover the minute I saw it. I knew I would read it anyway, because I love Carolyn Brown, but the cover really pulled me in. You all know how much covers scream to me, over and over again! I loved everything about this beautiful story and I’m excited to recommend it to my reading friends. Carolyn Brown always has a way of grabbing her readers and she never lets us go.
TEXAS HOMECOMING really takes a turn that will have you unable to put this beautiful story down. Neither Stephanie or Cody are looking for a relationship, but they can’t seem to ignore their growing feelings. Stephanie(Stevie) loved Cody many years ago and it seems like those feelings never went away. If only they would admit it! TEXAS HOMECOMING is the second book in the Ryan Family series. An unexpected blizzard brings them face to face with her resentment and his regrets of breaking her heart and leaving, as they struggle to stay alive. This is a wonderful second chance romance story. I was emotionally invested in this story from the very beginning. We have Cody and Stevie crossing paths and each time, there is a pull to see more of each other. This causes all sorts of rumors and gossip. It was cute watching these two dance around their feelings for each other. Cody was Stevie’s first love and he broke her heart way back then.
TEXAS HOMECOMING is filled with twists and turns and had me staying up way too late one night to finish! I had to know where Carolyn Brown was taking us and what would happen to Stevie and Cody. I really loved how the whole community came to Cody and Stevie’s aid and only wanted them to feel loved and realize that they were home. There is so much heart in Carolyn’s writing that I’m always left with a huge smile on my face and my heart very happy. I could totally see TEXAS HOMECOMING becoming a Hallmark movie and I would love to see it. All of the characters are very interesting and believable, so much so that I felt as if I’ve known them for a long time. I would love to hang out with Addy and Mia. I’m sure they could teach me a thing or two and I know they would keep my laughing all day long! I love how Carolyn Brown does that to me each and every time.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Forever and Grand Central Publishing. All opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given.
December 24, 2021
I generally love Carolyn Brown novels, but Texas Homecoming just didn’t fit the bill for a cozy romance. Nothing took off until I was 40% invested and by that time, I was too bleary-eyed to continue.
Maybe it’s romance overload. So perhaps I’ll have aa different perspective at a later date. But for now, Texas Homecoming wasn’t homecoming at all. Will not be posting to my social media accounts for now as I probably need to give this book another chance at another time.
Maybe it’s romance overload. So perhaps I’ll have aa different perspective at a later date. But for now, Texas Homecoming wasn’t homecoming at all. Will not be posting to my social media accounts for now as I probably need to give this book another chance at another time.
December 23, 2021
Texas Homecoming by Carolyn Brown is the second book in her Sunflower Ranch series. This heartwarming sweet romance has everything I wanted in a contemporary romance. A veterinarian, a family practice doctor, and a baby alpaca all stranded together in a barn, during a record-breaking snowstorm.
Cody Ryan is back home after spending ten years roaming the world with Doctors Without Borders. He’s ready to help his brother work the ranch, and be a country doctor who makes housecalls. He’s home for good this time, and is planning to settle down, and help his parents and brother work the farm.
Stephanie, or Dr. Stevie as the locals call her, is a small-town veterinarian who makes house calls to the ranches in the area. Cody Ryan broke her heart many years ago when he left for college, to become a doctor and travel the world. When a snowstorm finds her trapped in a client’s barn, the last person she wants to be trapped with is Dr. Cody Ryan.
I loved this sweet romance and enjoyed meeting up with the Ryan family again. Carolyn Brown has a knack for writing engrossing stories with complex characters that always bring a smile to my face. Stevie and Cody’s romance felt realistic, and their relationships with thier families was also heartwarming.
I recommend this book to anyone who loves a sweet, heartwarming small town romance. I received a complimentary copy of this book. The opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Cody Ryan is back home after spending ten years roaming the world with Doctors Without Borders. He’s ready to help his brother work the ranch, and be a country doctor who makes housecalls. He’s home for good this time, and is planning to settle down, and help his parents and brother work the farm.
Stephanie, or Dr. Stevie as the locals call her, is a small-town veterinarian who makes house calls to the ranches in the area. Cody Ryan broke her heart many years ago when he left for college, to become a doctor and travel the world. When a snowstorm finds her trapped in a client’s barn, the last person she wants to be trapped with is Dr. Cody Ryan.
I loved this sweet romance and enjoyed meeting up with the Ryan family again. Carolyn Brown has a knack for writing engrossing stories with complex characters that always bring a smile to my face. Stevie and Cody’s romance felt realistic, and their relationships with thier families was also heartwarming.
I recommend this book to anyone who loves a sweet, heartwarming small town romance. I received a complimentary copy of this book. The opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
October 15, 2021
A second-chance romance and the second book in the Ryan Family series, this novel follows Stevie and Cody, a veterinarian and doctor with a long history. Stevie’s been in love with Cody since high school when they dated for a brief time before he left for college. Now, years later, Cody has returned home to his family ranch in Texas after traveling the world working with Doctors Without Borders. During a blizzard-like storm, Cody and Stevie are both caught in a neighbors barn and have to hunker down together with a collection of furry friends and survive the storm. But can they survive the feelings that resurface after so many years apart?
Stevie and Cody have a lovely second-chance romance! It’s clear from the start that there is unfinished business between the two, and their chemistry is strong from the moment they reconnect. So much time has passed, and there are many old feelings that they need to address, especially since they were on different pages when they broke up as teenagers. I don’t think Cody realized just how heartbroken he left Stevie until he returns and reconnects with her. It’s great to see them break down the walls they’ve put up and find each other again.
I also really love the strong messages about family. Cody has a wonderful family, and their bond is so strong. This is a family that supports and loves through the thick and thin, and they always have each other’s backs. This warm family is just what Stevie needs, as she is grieving the loss of her mother and misses the close family connection. The messages about love and family show just how important both are to the protagonists, and they are a great complement to the love story. Both Cody and Stevie returned to their hometown to help with sick parents, and it is back in their hometown where they find themselves, their connection with their family, and each other again.
Another part of the story I enjoyed was the Texas winter setting. When I think of Texas, I usually think of hot and sunny weather. However, this is Texas in the winter, and a nasty snowstorm has shut down the area. It’s interesting to see the state from a different perspective than I expected. Also, the blustery, cold weather is a nice contrast to the chemistry that sparks between Stevie and Cody.
The animals are another fantastic addition to the story. Stevie is a veterinarian, and she is gifted with animals. Nurturing, compassionate, and experienced, she is a wonderful doctor and caretaker. And the animals are priceless and adorable. I feel like these animals offer some powerful messages about trust, love, adaptability, and found families, which is really interesting.
Though this is the second book in the Ryan Family series, it can totally be read as a standalone. That being said, it’s a wonderfully heartwarming series that I recommend to readers of contemporary romance. Thanks so much to Forever, Netgalley, and the author for a copy of the book in exchange for my honest review.
Stevie and Cody have a lovely second-chance romance! It’s clear from the start that there is unfinished business between the two, and their chemistry is strong from the moment they reconnect. So much time has passed, and there are many old feelings that they need to address, especially since they were on different pages when they broke up as teenagers. I don’t think Cody realized just how heartbroken he left Stevie until he returns and reconnects with her. It’s great to see them break down the walls they’ve put up and find each other again.
I also really love the strong messages about family. Cody has a wonderful family, and their bond is so strong. This is a family that supports and loves through the thick and thin, and they always have each other’s backs. This warm family is just what Stevie needs, as she is grieving the loss of her mother and misses the close family connection. The messages about love and family show just how important both are to the protagonists, and they are a great complement to the love story. Both Cody and Stevie returned to their hometown to help with sick parents, and it is back in their hometown where they find themselves, their connection with their family, and each other again.
Another part of the story I enjoyed was the Texas winter setting. When I think of Texas, I usually think of hot and sunny weather. However, this is Texas in the winter, and a nasty snowstorm has shut down the area. It’s interesting to see the state from a different perspective than I expected. Also, the blustery, cold weather is a nice contrast to the chemistry that sparks between Stevie and Cody.
The animals are another fantastic addition to the story. Stevie is a veterinarian, and she is gifted with animals. Nurturing, compassionate, and experienced, she is a wonderful doctor and caretaker. And the animals are priceless and adorable. I feel like these animals offer some powerful messages about trust, love, adaptability, and found families, which is really interesting.
Though this is the second book in the Ryan Family series, it can totally be read as a standalone. That being said, it’s a wonderfully heartwarming series that I recommend to readers of contemporary romance. Thanks so much to Forever, Netgalley, and the author for a copy of the book in exchange for my honest review.
January 28, 2022
This is a second chance cowboy romance, and this is the second book in the Ryan Family series.
I feel like you grow to love the characters a little more slowly in this title than some of Brown's other works. I love how strong both of the main characters were, and you could tell they both really loved each other. The Ryan family is truly a joy to read about.
This book takes places during winter, so it was nice to cozy up in a blanket and feel immersed in it. Brown's descriptive writing, and her love of small town romance gave me some excellent cozy feels as well. I am excited to continue in the series, and see who's romance will be next!
Thanks as always to my friends at Forever, and Netgalley for the early copy!
I feel like you grow to love the characters a little more slowly in this title than some of Brown's other works. I love how strong both of the main characters were, and you could tell they both really loved each other. The Ryan family is truly a joy to read about.
This book takes places during winter, so it was nice to cozy up in a blanket and feel immersed in it. Brown's descriptive writing, and her love of small town romance gave me some excellent cozy feels as well. I am excited to continue in the series, and see who's romance will be next!
Thanks as always to my friends at Forever, and Netgalley for the early copy!
January 31, 2022
Stephanie O’Dell and Cody Ryan have each come back to their hometown after many years away from their family and each other. Stephanie or Stevie as she likes to be called has become a Veterinarian and Cody has become a doctor. He worked with Doctors without Borders and has come home to help with his adopted father Sonny who needs medical care. Stevie came home to help her mother with cancer and she was left alone with no family and friends when her mother passed away. But a bad snow storm leaves these two former teenage sweethearts locked in barn looking after a baby alpaca and a mother cat and her two little kittens. With very little food and God forbid no coffee. What is to become of these two and the menagerie in the days to come before they are rescued. When they are rescued will the truce they have had come to an end, or will the days at the Ranch where Stevie has to continue to stay with Cody turn into more than just friends.
I loved this book with Stevie and Cody and catching up with the rest of the Ryan family. As always with Carolyn Brown’s books you get some wonderful characters that make you want to pull up a chair and have a coffee and a conversation. It is always a sweet, funny and emotional book and this is no exception. Stevie’s story pulled at my heart for all the things she had to endure and finding a place and family to belong to and finding love again had me grabbing for a tissue a few times. But then she had me laughing out loud and leaving me with a wonderful feeling at the end of the HEA for Cody and Stevie.
I can’t wait for the next book to come out way!!
I loved this book with Stevie and Cody and catching up with the rest of the Ryan family. As always with Carolyn Brown’s books you get some wonderful characters that make you want to pull up a chair and have a coffee and a conversation. It is always a sweet, funny and emotional book and this is no exception. Stevie’s story pulled at my heart for all the things she had to endure and finding a place and family to belong to and finding love again had me grabbing for a tissue a few times. But then she had me laughing out loud and leaving me with a wonderful feeling at the end of the HEA for Cody and Stevie.
I can’t wait for the next book to come out way!!
February 19, 2022
Has life given them a second chance or is this just closure? Texas Homecoming tells the next Ryan brother romance from an author who brings country and charm together in a fabulous way.
Cody Ryan had the tough choice of his dream career in Doctors Without Borders or staying home with his high school sweetheart. He chose being a doctor and went away to a fulfilling several years meanwhile Stevie patched up her broken heart and went on to be a veterinarian. Did he make the right choice years back? He does ask ‘what if’ because he never quite got over Stevie any more than she did him. In fact, she’s had a pretty tough row to hoe especially since recently losing her mom to cancer. But, here they are again and snowed in together with a chance to lay the past at rest. But, then they have to decide if there can be a future with family, alpacas and other animals, patients, and ranch life keeping them busy.
Texas Homecoming was sassy and small town goodness that I expect when I pick up a Carolyn Brown book just like I’m used to a sexy slow burn everyday people-type of romance that runs neck and neck with their working lives, family, and friends happening around them. While this book was its own story with a new pair taking the front and center, I did like how it kept the earlier book Sunflower Ranch’s story ongoing, too.
I’m not generally into the second chance romance situation where one or both of the romance pair keep their mad on for years after a high school romance didn’t work out, but this one got settled with the past anger fairly early on and moved into two people reconnecting and seeing if there was anything there after they’d lived separate lives. It was a hard choice in the past, but not necessarily a wrong one and they both did a lot of living and maturing in the meantime.
The slow gentle pace of life out in ranch country and reconnecting with friends and family were a great background for Cody and Stevie’s romance. It was comfortable and fun. I loved seeing them, especially Stevie repair the sad bits and grow happy together. The animals especially that baby alpaca played a great cupid role.
All in all, it was a right book for right book mood. Looking forward to the next Ryan brother to get his romance. Those who enjoy slightly spicy, small town cowboy romance should definitely give this one and the first book in series a go.
I rec'd an eARC through NetGalley to read in exchange for an honest review.
Cody Ryan had the tough choice of his dream career in Doctors Without Borders or staying home with his high school sweetheart. He chose being a doctor and went away to a fulfilling several years meanwhile Stevie patched up her broken heart and went on to be a veterinarian. Did he make the right choice years back? He does ask ‘what if’ because he never quite got over Stevie any more than she did him. In fact, she’s had a pretty tough row to hoe especially since recently losing her mom to cancer. But, here they are again and snowed in together with a chance to lay the past at rest. But, then they have to decide if there can be a future with family, alpacas and other animals, patients, and ranch life keeping them busy.
Texas Homecoming was sassy and small town goodness that I expect when I pick up a Carolyn Brown book just like I’m used to a sexy slow burn everyday people-type of romance that runs neck and neck with their working lives, family, and friends happening around them. While this book was its own story with a new pair taking the front and center, I did like how it kept the earlier book Sunflower Ranch’s story ongoing, too.
I’m not generally into the second chance romance situation where one or both of the romance pair keep their mad on for years after a high school romance didn’t work out, but this one got settled with the past anger fairly early on and moved into two people reconnecting and seeing if there was anything there after they’d lived separate lives. It was a hard choice in the past, but not necessarily a wrong one and they both did a lot of living and maturing in the meantime.
The slow gentle pace of life out in ranch country and reconnecting with friends and family were a great background for Cody and Stevie’s romance. It was comfortable and fun. I loved seeing them, especially Stevie repair the sad bits and grow happy together. The animals especially that baby alpaca played a great cupid role.
All in all, it was a right book for right book mood. Looking forward to the next Ryan brother to get his romance. Those who enjoy slightly spicy, small town cowboy romance should definitely give this one and the first book in series a go.
I rec'd an eARC through NetGalley to read in exchange for an honest review.
December 28, 2021
"A saying about life says: "'You don't meet people by accident. There's always a reason-- a lesson or a blessing"'.
(Carolyn Brown)
Texas Homecoming is a very sweet story about rekindling love. Can it ever work out? Is there truly a reason or lesson to be learned when life puts you in unique situations?
Cody and Stevie dated years ago, but the breakup left them both feeling "less than amicable" toward each other. In fact, they have barely spoken since parting ways. During a blinding snow storm, they both end up taking shelter in a barn to ride out the storm. This leads to a very uncomfortable humorous predicament.
I loved the premise of this novel. The interaction of the adults with the animals made the book so sweet. I also enjoyed the family love and life lessons written in by the author. I appreciate Carolyn Brown keeping the book clean and free of graphic scenes. The book is a little repetitive and predictable, but over all it is a good feel good book. Texas Homecoming will be published January 25, 2022.
Thank you NetGalley and Forever (Grand Central Publishing) for this free ARC.
(Carolyn Brown)
Texas Homecoming is a very sweet story about rekindling love. Can it ever work out? Is there truly a reason or lesson to be learned when life puts you in unique situations?
Cody and Stevie dated years ago, but the breakup left them both feeling "less than amicable" toward each other. In fact, they have barely spoken since parting ways. During a blinding snow storm, they both end up taking shelter in a barn to ride out the storm. This leads to a very uncomfortable humorous predicament.
I loved the premise of this novel. The interaction of the adults with the animals made the book so sweet. I also enjoyed the family love and life lessons written in by the author. I appreciate Carolyn Brown keeping the book clean and free of graphic scenes. The book is a little repetitive and predictable, but over all it is a good feel good book. Texas Homecoming will be published January 25, 2022.
Thank you NetGalley and Forever (Grand Central Publishing) for this free ARC.
October 26, 2021
This is a sweet, second chance romance. Cody and Stevie dated when they were in high school - but Cody ended their relationship when he headed off to college - then on to Medical School and work with Doctors without Borders. Their feelings for each other were extremely strong - and both were considering giving up dreams for the other. But Cody took the steps to break things off - because he was scared of where things were heading. This lead to a 20 year separation between them - that ends when they are stranded in a snowstorm together.
I loved the maturity of both Stevie and Cody. Stevie had been holding on to her anger at Cody for a LONG time - but once they are stuck together - they both make an effort to talk to each other and lay those old negative feelings to rest and move forward. That theme continued throughout the book. I can't tell you how lovely it is to see adults acting like - well - adults!
The one thing is - things did drag a little for me at times. This book does inhabit the real world - where people aren't crazy rich and have legitimate problems - and maybe some of those issues were a bit of a drag on the overall story line. I also did start to feel really badly for Stevie - she did just about hit the limit for bad things that could happen to a single person.
Overall - I did enjoy the book a lot, but it wasn't total love for me - just like!
I received it as an ARC from NetGalley, but these opinions are all my own.
I loved the maturity of both Stevie and Cody. Stevie had been holding on to her anger at Cody for a LONG time - but once they are stuck together - they both make an effort to talk to each other and lay those old negative feelings to rest and move forward. That theme continued throughout the book. I can't tell you how lovely it is to see adults acting like - well - adults!
The one thing is - things did drag a little for me at times. This book does inhabit the real world - where people aren't crazy rich and have legitimate problems - and maybe some of those issues were a bit of a drag on the overall story line. I also did start to feel really badly for Stevie - she did just about hit the limit for bad things that could happen to a single person.
Overall - I did enjoy the book a lot, but it wasn't total love for me - just like!
I received it as an ARC from NetGalley, but these opinions are all my own.
October 8, 2021
A sweet second chance contemporary western romance
Stevie was in love with Cody since high school, but he had big plans. She went on to Veterinarian school and made a life for herself, without him She returned home to help her mother after a cancer diagnosis...never expecting Cody would also return to the ranch to help deal with his own father’s health issues. Their connection was still strong.
They overcame past issues to become close and also dealt with new ones. Ms. Brown sprinkles this wonderful tale liberally with bits of humor and interesting characters. I recommend it highly for those who love cowboys or second chances. .
I was thrilled to receive an ARC from NetGalley gratis and offer my opinion in the same vein
Stevie was in love with Cody since high school, but he had big plans. She went on to Veterinarian school and made a life for herself, without him She returned home to help her mother after a cancer diagnosis...never expecting Cody would also return to the ranch to help deal with his own father’s health issues. Their connection was still strong.
They overcame past issues to become close and also dealt with new ones. Ms. Brown sprinkles this wonderful tale liberally with bits of humor and interesting characters. I recommend it highly for those who love cowboys or second chances. .
I was thrilled to receive an ARC from NetGalley gratis and offer my opinion in the same vein
November 9, 2021
A sweet second chance western romance is just what I needed to read.
Stevie and Cody have been in love since they were in high school.
They each went their own way with each to return to handle family issues. They did not expect the connection they felt for each other when they were both back home. The chemistry and connection were as strong as ever.
Stevie and Cody had to over come some past issues they had but then also had to figure out how to deal with new issues that arose.
Toss in a blizzard and the story get very intense and interesting.
The story is written so I felt so much for both and for others in the story.
This book is the second in The Ryan Family Series. This book was as fantastic as the first in the series. I look forward to more in the series.
Thank you NetGalley, Carolyn Brown and Forever for the ARC copy. This is my personal review.
Stevie and Cody have been in love since they were in high school.
They each went their own way with each to return to handle family issues. They did not expect the connection they felt for each other when they were both back home. The chemistry and connection were as strong as ever.
Stevie and Cody had to over come some past issues they had but then also had to figure out how to deal with new issues that arose.
Toss in a blizzard and the story get very intense and interesting.
The story is written so I felt so much for both and for others in the story.
This book is the second in The Ryan Family Series. This book was as fantastic as the first in the series. I look forward to more in the series.
Thank you NetGalley, Carolyn Brown and Forever for the ARC copy. This is my personal review.
December 10, 2021
Any day that I get to read a book written by Carolyn Brown is a banner day. Texas Homecoming is everything I look for in a CB book. Earthy characters, a string community, and cute animals. This one included a cria, a baby alpaca, which was a nice change. I did feel sorry for Stevie because she had so many calamities Happen to her, I was afraid to turn the page to see what might befall her next. Come home to Texas and find your CB story. Thanks to NetGalley and Forever for the early read,
April 25, 2022
Cody Ryan has spent much of his life giving back to others through his work with Doctors Without Borders. After ten years of traveling some of the world’s most remote locations, Cody has returned to his hometown of Honey Grove, Texas, to spend as much time as possible with his ailing father.
Stephanie O’Dell has also recently moved back to their hometown and set up her own veterinary practice. Cody broke her heart when they dated in high school and he’s the last person she cares to spend time with now. So, of course, when a freak blizzard sees her stranded in an old barn, it’s Cody she’s stuck with. Their connection is stronger than ever, but it may take a miracle for two such stubborn people to admit it.
This book was perhaps a bit too cutesy for me at times and the narrator had to grow on me, but the story did wind up being a good escape for me. I liked Cody as a hero and Stevie became tolerable once she adjusted her attitude and stopped being so hateful and snappish to Cody when he was nothing but nice to her. Her hang up on something that should’ve been ancient history from a high school experience nearly twenty years in the past was pretty frustrating, so I was glad to see her move past that and at that point I began to actually enjoy the story. I really liked Cody’s family dynamic, the fact that this couple prayed together and had pretty open communication from the get-go, even if it wasn’t always friendly, and that Cody knew what he wanted and didn’t hesitate to go after it. All in all, I think this is a nice, light-hearted escapist read.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book and its audiobook. All thoughts and opinions are my own. Blog link: https://mustreadalltheromance.blogspo...
Stephanie O’Dell has also recently moved back to their hometown and set up her own veterinary practice. Cody broke her heart when they dated in high school and he’s the last person she cares to spend time with now. So, of course, when a freak blizzard sees her stranded in an old barn, it’s Cody she’s stuck with. Their connection is stronger than ever, but it may take a miracle for two such stubborn people to admit it.
This book was perhaps a bit too cutesy for me at times and the narrator had to grow on me, but the story did wind up being a good escape for me. I liked Cody as a hero and Stevie became tolerable once she adjusted her attitude and stopped being so hateful and snappish to Cody when he was nothing but nice to her. Her hang up on something that should’ve been ancient history from a high school experience nearly twenty years in the past was pretty frustrating, so I was glad to see her move past that and at that point I began to actually enjoy the story. I really liked Cody’s family dynamic, the fact that this couple prayed together and had pretty open communication from the get-go, even if it wasn’t always friendly, and that Cody knew what he wanted and didn’t hesitate to go after it. All in all, I think this is a nice, light-hearted escapist read.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book and its audiobook. All thoughts and opinions are my own. Blog link: https://mustreadalltheromance.blogspo...
February 27, 2022
Carolyn Brown is a wonderful author! Her stories are so true to life. Her characters face what could be real life situations, ups and downs, obstacles, and life changing decisions. When I read her books I feel like she takes me away and places me within the story. I am enjoying this series and can't wait for the next one to be released! I love the way she always writes clean romantic stories without graphic details and you don't have to worry about foul/filthy language. I have yet to tire or be disappointed by one of her books. Very highly recommend her books!!
After traveling the world, Dr. Cody Ryan has finally come home to his foster family’s ranch in Honey Grove, Texas. But all his time in Doctors Without Borders couldn’t have prepared him for the sudden blizzard that forces him to take shelter in an old barn—or for the shock of watching Stephanie O’Dell yank open that same barn door minutes later. He’s barely seen the gorgeous veterinarian since he returned, so why is she icier than the wind outside?
Stephanie—better known as Dr. Stevie around Sunflower Ranch—has been treating the cattle there for years…and not one of them is as bullheaded as Cody. He’s completely forgotten how he broke her heart, back when she was a teenager smitten by his easy charm and sharp wit. But as the blizzard rages on, trapping Cody and Stevie together, it’s clear that the fire they’ve built to keep warm isn’t the only source of sparks in that barn. Once the storm passes, will Stevie and Cody discover that they’ve fallen in love …and will either of them ever admit it?
After traveling the world, Dr. Cody Ryan has finally come home to his foster family’s ranch in Honey Grove, Texas. But all his time in Doctors Without Borders couldn’t have prepared him for the sudden blizzard that forces him to take shelter in an old barn—or for the shock of watching Stephanie O’Dell yank open that same barn door minutes later. He’s barely seen the gorgeous veterinarian since he returned, so why is she icier than the wind outside?
Stephanie—better known as Dr. Stevie around Sunflower Ranch—has been treating the cattle there for years…and not one of them is as bullheaded as Cody. He’s completely forgotten how he broke her heart, back when she was a teenager smitten by his easy charm and sharp wit. But as the blizzard rages on, trapping Cody and Stevie together, it’s clear that the fire they’ve built to keep warm isn’t the only source of sparks in that barn. Once the storm passes, will Stevie and Cody discover that they’ve fallen in love …and will either of them ever admit it?
January 22, 2022
It's all about the timing ...
Twenty years ago, high school sweethearts Cody and Stevie were too young to make the sacrifices necessary to stay together, but now getting trapped in a neighbor's barn during a blizzard gives them a chance to examine the attraction that's still simmering between them.
I loved these characters and especially loved the honest, direct way they have about discussing their past and their current situations. I loved the way the rebuilding of their relationship was tracked alongside the blossoming romance of a younger couple, the similarities and the differences due to age and maturity.
It was also terrific to see the entire Ryan family again, especially Jesse and Addy and their growing family. I even learned a little bit about alpacas and adored their connection with the kittens. The HEA was everything I'd hoped for. I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.
Twenty years ago, high school sweethearts Cody and Stevie were too young to make the sacrifices necessary to stay together, but now getting trapped in a neighbor's barn during a blizzard gives them a chance to examine the attraction that's still simmering between them.
I loved these characters and especially loved the honest, direct way they have about discussing their past and their current situations. I loved the way the rebuilding of their relationship was tracked alongside the blossoming romance of a younger couple, the similarities and the differences due to age and maturity.
It was also terrific to see the entire Ryan family again, especially Jesse and Addy and their growing family. I even learned a little bit about alpacas and adored their connection with the kittens. The HEA was everything I'd hoped for. I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.
February 26, 2022
I really liked this! I'm not a fan of cowboy romances but the cowboy element is not strong in this one. This is a first love 2nd chance book about Cody and Stephanie. He's a doctor, she's a vet, and they were each other's first loves but he chose work over her and she's never forgiven him. They get snowed in together and strike up a relationship after many years. I loved his family and would love to read more from this series!
March 14, 2022
Second chance romance is one of my favorite tropes, especially when paired with forced proximity, which was the case with TEXAS HOMECOMING. I enjoyed getting to know these characters, but I most of all I enjoyed getting to know them together. I appreciated the author's effort in bringing their connection to the page through candid conversations and emotionally-charged dialogue. These two carried a lot of hurt from their previous break-up and having them talk it out instead of glossing over their past hurts made the difference for me in this story. I admit there were some moments where the pace of the story lagged a little for me, but in the end the romance won out and I stuck to it through the end.
All in all, an engaging, sweet and an overall enjoyable read.
All in all, an engaging, sweet and an overall enjoyable read.
February 7, 2022
Enjoyed Cody's story.....Looking forward to Lucas' story!
March 4, 2022
Ok book, second chance romance. It is book #2 in the series and I have not read book #1 so I would say it can be read as a standalone.
July 26, 2024
If you are into sweet romances with a religious bent this is a good read for you. The best part of it was the cria and kittens.
January 26, 2022
I love re-visiting Sunflower Ranch! I devoured the audiobook for this book in one day and can't wait for the next installment in The Ryan Family series.
This sweet romance is all about second chances and the love of family. My heart broke for both Stevie and Cody throughout the book, but I appreciate when a character is brutally honest and doesn't play mind games, so this was a pleasant surprise for me.
If you love cowboys, strong female lead, doctors, or animals - this book has something for everyone. While this is part of a series, this can be read as a stand alone, although fair warning, you might want to relocate to a ranch after reading this one, lol.
This sweet romance is all about second chances and the love of family. My heart broke for both Stevie and Cody throughout the book, but I appreciate when a character is brutally honest and doesn't play mind games, so this was a pleasant surprise for me.
If you love cowboys, strong female lead, doctors, or animals - this book has something for everyone. While this is part of a series, this can be read as a stand alone, although fair warning, you might want to relocate to a ranch after reading this one, lol.
January 3, 2022
Dr. Cody Ryan has recently returned home to Texas to help care for his family ranch and his father after his health has declined. Dr. Ryan has been a part of Doctors Without Borders for the better part of a decade, since he graduated from med school. After a bad snowstorm he finds himself stuck in a patients barn with a litter of kittens and a few miscellaneous cans of food.
Veterinarian, Dr. Stephanie "Stevie" O'Dell has also recently returned home after losing her mother. She has been serving the local ranches and doing house calls for pet visits as well. She too finds herself stuck in the storm and in the same barn as Dr Ryan. The two doctors also have a romantic and torrid past after Cody broke up with and left Stevie when he went away to med school. She vowed never.to look at him again.
Would 4 days in a barn in the middle on a storm change their relationship? Would they talk enough to be ok with one another?
Read Carolyn Brown's Texas Homecoming to find out what happens to the good doctors. This is one of Ms Brown's best novels yet and one of my favorite cowboy series. A must-read cowboy. Romance!
Veterinarian, Dr. Stephanie "Stevie" O'Dell has also recently returned home after losing her mother. She has been serving the local ranches and doing house calls for pet visits as well. She too finds herself stuck in the storm and in the same barn as Dr Ryan. The two doctors also have a romantic and torrid past after Cody broke up with and left Stevie when he went away to med school. She vowed never.to look at him again.
Would 4 days in a barn in the middle on a storm change their relationship? Would they talk enough to be ok with one another?
Read Carolyn Brown's Texas Homecoming to find out what happens to the good doctors. This is one of Ms Brown's best novels yet and one of my favorite cowboy series. A must-read cowboy. Romance!
October 17, 2021
Texas Homecoming returns Carolyn Browns fans to the much loved Sunflower Ranch in a sweet second chance story. High school sweethearts, Cody had broken Stevie’s heart when he broke off the relationship to concentrate on his desire to become a doctor. Veterinarian Stevie has judged all other suitors against Cody…afraid to commit again. An unexpected blizzard brings them back together to face her animosity and his regrets as they struggle to stay alive. It’s a familiar trope, but in Ms. Brown’s capable hands there’s nothing mundane or ordinary in this book. Dialogue is witty, situations ring true, readers get updates on previously spotlighted characters and as is her trademark country music, family and good old Southern cuisine are extolled. It’s a wonderful read! I voluntarily reviewed an advance copy of this book from NetGalley. Most highly recommend.
October 8, 2021
I received an advance copy of, Texas Homecoming, by Carolyn Brown. This is a sweet story about starting over again, going back to your roots.
January 22, 2022
My Thoughts
Dr. Cody Ryan and Dr. Stephanie O’Dell , aka Dr. Stevie, were high school sweethearts whose different dreams took precedence over their young romance.
Relationships with family, friends, old feelings as well as new ones are explored to the fullest while Cody and Stevie find their way to a stronger relationship as adults.
Coming home to Honey Grove, Texas was not a hard decision for either but deciding to stay when presented with alternatives caused some soul searching for each of the pair.
This second chance romance has all the charm and an HEA that was long overdue for Cody and Stevie!
[EArc from Netgalley]
May 24, 2022
I enjoyed the book, the narrator did a amazing job to keep me entertained and interested.
January 20, 2022
Former high school sweethearts finally reunite when a snow storm traps them together and forces them to face their issues!
Dr. Cody Ryan has come home to help his ailing father and the family ranch. This is the first time since high school that he is free from pressures and obligations that his medical career and Doctors Without Borders placed on him…
Dr. Stephanie O’Dell has been home in Honey Grove, Texas since her mother was diagnosed with cancer… now that she’s gone, Dr. Stevie doesn’t know where home is anymore. She needs to keep her heard down and work on starting her new local veterinarian practice and avoid the man who broke her heart; the man she has compared everyone to moving forward. This becomes difficult when she’s stranded with him during the snow storm. Can she forgive him for breaking her heart? Will she finally be able to move on?
What perfect timing to read a delicious snow storm forced proximity romance! Cody and Stevie made for a great pairing - even if it took awhile for Stevie to realize it! I was a little worried at the beginning that Cody was going to be an arrogant doctor character, too good for his hometown roots and ex girlfriend, but I was pleasantly surprised at his swift turnaround and the work he puts into making Stevie comfortable and ready to try again.
I had the pleasure of receiving an audiobook version of this and I found the narration from Chelsea Hatfield well paced and easy to listen to. Her voicing for Cody did feel a little off for me, because the way she spoke his lines made him sound too hesitant. Cody is an international doctor who has grown up on a ranch, I personally felt a more masculine and assertive voice for him would have carried better that the soft spoken version in this audio. Overall this didn’t negate my enjoyment of the audio or story.
Texas Homecoming by Carolyn Brown is scheduled to release January 25th, 2022.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Forever Grand Central Publishing. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Blog link: https://pinkcowlandreads.blogspot.com...
#TexasHomecoming #CarolynBrown #NetGalley #pinkcowlandreads
Dr. Cody Ryan has come home to help his ailing father and the family ranch. This is the first time since high school that he is free from pressures and obligations that his medical career and Doctors Without Borders placed on him…
Dr. Stephanie O’Dell has been home in Honey Grove, Texas since her mother was diagnosed with cancer… now that she’s gone, Dr. Stevie doesn’t know where home is anymore. She needs to keep her heard down and work on starting her new local veterinarian practice and avoid the man who broke her heart; the man she has compared everyone to moving forward. This becomes difficult when she’s stranded with him during the snow storm. Can she forgive him for breaking her heart? Will she finally be able to move on?
What perfect timing to read a delicious snow storm forced proximity romance! Cody and Stevie made for a great pairing - even if it took awhile for Stevie to realize it! I was a little worried at the beginning that Cody was going to be an arrogant doctor character, too good for his hometown roots and ex girlfriend, but I was pleasantly surprised at his swift turnaround and the work he puts into making Stevie comfortable and ready to try again.
I had the pleasure of receiving an audiobook version of this and I found the narration from Chelsea Hatfield well paced and easy to listen to. Her voicing for Cody did feel a little off for me, because the way she spoke his lines made him sound too hesitant. Cody is an international doctor who has grown up on a ranch, I personally felt a more masculine and assertive voice for him would have carried better that the soft spoken version in this audio. Overall this didn’t negate my enjoyment of the audio or story.
Texas Homecoming by Carolyn Brown is scheduled to release January 25th, 2022.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Forever Grand Central Publishing. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Blog link: https://pinkcowlandreads.blogspot.com...
#TexasHomecoming #CarolynBrown #NetGalley #pinkcowlandreads
January 27, 2022
Stevie and Cody get a second-chance in Texas Homecoming, book two in the Ryan Family series by Carolyn Brown. This is a sweet, heartwarming story about rekindling love after a blinding snowstorm has both Stevie and Cody taking shelter in a neighbor’s barn to ride out the storm. This leads to a very uncomfortable, yet humorous, predicament. Stevie, a veterinarian, and Cody, a doctor, have a long history. Stevie’s been in love with Cody since high school, when they dated for a brief while before he left for college. Their breakup left Stevie heartbroken, with lots of unanswered questions. During the years since, both have barely acknowledged each other. Cody has returned home to the family ranch after traveling the world working with Doctors Without Borders when his father had a bad turn with his illness and Stevie returned to take care of her ill mother. Neither expected the feelings they once felt to still be there when they reconnected; their chemistry and magnetic attraction still strong. Stevie and Cody had some old baggage to overcome, along with figuring out how to deal with this new dynamic between them and any and all issues that have arisen.
An additional theme throughout this story is family. Cody has a wonderful family, and their bond is strong. This is a family that supports and loves through thick and thin, always having each other’s backs. This warm family is exactly what Stevie needs, as she is grieving the loss of her mother and misses the close family connection. The message about love and family show just how important they are to both Stevie and Cody, and greatly supplements their love story. Cody and Stevie both returned to their hometown to help with sick parents, and it is back in their hometown where they find themselves, their connection with their family, and each other again. I highly recommend Texas Homecoming to other readers.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
An additional theme throughout this story is family. Cody has a wonderful family, and their bond is strong. This is a family that supports and loves through thick and thin, always having each other’s backs. This warm family is exactly what Stevie needs, as she is grieving the loss of her mother and misses the close family connection. The message about love and family show just how important they are to both Stevie and Cody, and greatly supplements their love story. Cody and Stevie both returned to their hometown to help with sick parents, and it is back in their hometown where they find themselves, their connection with their family, and each other again. I highly recommend Texas Homecoming to other readers.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
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