When single mom Lorelei Parkman discovers the biological father of her adopted daughter could be Dax Buchanan—the Dax Buchanan—she’s shocked. Of all the men in Last Ride, Texas, the bull-riding bad boy doesn’t quite fit the bill of…parent. But as Lorelei learns more about Stellie’s mysterious birth mother, she realizes she’ll have to trust the reckless rodeo star…or risk losing her baby forever.
Dax is normally up for any kind of challenge. Daddy duty, however, is best left to the pros. Still, being with the little girl, and the gorgeous Lorelei, unlocks something inside—a completeness he’s been chasing his whole life. And now that he has it, he’s sure as hell not about to let it go.
Bonus novella! While doing research for the Last Ride Society, Alana Parkman runs into cowboy Gray Russell, and while she's still attracted to her former flame, ghosts from the past might interfere with their steamy reunion…
Want to know more about me? Well, here it is in a nutshell:
I’m a USA Today bestselling author, and I’ve sold over 100 novels. Yes, 100! Needless to say, I write a lot. I’ve had the honor of receiving the Booksellers' Best Award for romantic suspense, the Romantic Times Reviewers' Choice Award, and I was a finalist for the Rita. My books have been featured in Vogue, Woman’s Day and Woman’s World. I’ve also had nearly a hundred short stories and articles published in national magazines. I love hearing from readers, and you can contact me through my webpage at: www.deloresfossen.com.
I loved this book and loved how Lorelei's family will come to the rescue no matter what they have going on in their lives. And I loved how Dax stepped up for Lorelei and his daughter. He would do anything for her to have her keep his sweet little girl that she adopted. I like how strong Lorelei was when dealing with the obstacles put in her way, she didn't need Dax to fight her battles, but she was better for him having her back. This book was a feel good read. Lots of moments that made you laugh, a few teary moments and a lot of sighing when you saw how Dax was with his baby girl and of course the melt your heart moments between Dax and Lorelei... It was was hotter than a Texas summer day.
Bonus book Breaking Rules at Nightfall Ranch is a short story where a young man finds out that the mother he loved was not his birth mother and who his real father was... And when Gary finds Alana Parkman at the cemetery doing research on Sadie Jo, who is his birth mother, they both remember back when he broke her heart and how much they still care about one another. Alana will help Gary find the truth and they will find there way back to one another.
Good book. Lorelei adopted the infant daughter of a woman with no known relatives who died in their town. Right after the adoption was final, she found a photograph that might be of the biological father. She has a sinking sensation that she knows who it is and goes to confront him.
Dax is a bull rider with a reputation for his romantic exploits. He's never made any question of his disinterest in relationships of any kind. He's understandably shocked when Lorelei tells him that he may be little Stellie's father.
I thought the impetus behind Lorelei's research into Stellie's birth mother was interesting. Every quarter, the town draws the name of someone buried in their cemetery to research and report on so that person isn't forgotten. Lorelei never anticipated the can of worms waiting when she started her project. Dana Smith turned out to be someone very different from the down-on-her-luck jewelry maker she portrayed herself as. Uncovering her identity opened Lorelei up to her worst nightmare - the possibility of someone taking her daughter away.
I liked Lorelei. She's a strong woman who isn't afraid to go after what she wants. She owns a successful business and has close relationships with her family and friends. The only thing she doesn't have is a man in her life. She has trust issues stemming back to an incident with her college boyfriend. She loves being a mother to Stellie and wants what is best for her.
I liked Dax, too. He has a reputation but has started moving past his reckless younger self. He is a successful bull rider who also raises bulls for rodeo work. After years of injuries, Dax realizes that it's time to retire before he does himself permanent damage. Dax has some secrets from his past that have convinced him that a family is not in his future.
Matters quickly become complicated when Dax remembers Stellie's mother, who used a different name. When they take that information to the sheriff, he discovers that Valerie Ford had parents and a husband. This is a blow to Lorelei, who could lose custody of Stellie to her grandparents or Valerie's husband if he turns out to be the father. I ached for Lorelei, who was devastated by the news. Though Dax is in no hurry to become a father, he hates to see Lorelei's distress and immediately does a paternity test. I loved how he showed up at her house that night to keep her company and provide moral support. That was especially important when Valerie's parents and husband showed up the next day. The parents were okay, but the husband, Aaron, was obnoxious and had all the hallmarks of an abuser.
I loved Dax's protectiveness toward Lorelei. Despite what he thinks of himself, he has a deep core of goodness, and watching out for Lorelei and Stellie is a no-brainer. What neither counts on is the strength of the attraction between them. Both try to fight it, but it isn't easy, especially with as much time as they spend together. I loved seeing them get to know each other, share the good and the bad in their lives, and grow closer. Neither wants to admit their feelings, though those around them can see them clearly.
There is a lot of stress as Dax and Lorelei join forces against Aaron. His methods stir up ghosts of the past, including using Lorelei's college boyfriend as his lawyer. I loved how Julian was so smug and condescending until he discovered that Lorelei wasn't the naïve college girl she used to be. There were several great scenes where either she or Dax got the better of him, which was fantastic. There were times when things looked dark for Lorelei, but an unexpected revelation brought the case to a very satisfying conclusion.
Meanwhile, the heat between Dax and Lorelei continues to burn. Just when it looks like their lives are settling down, Dax receives devastating news that brings back his old fears. I hurt for him and its effect on his belief in himself. I loved Lorelei's support and attempt to make him see the truth. I loved the ending and seeing Dax talk about his "epiphany." The rodeo at the end was fantastic. I especially enjoyed the pre- and post-bull ride scenes between Dax and Lorelei. The conclusion was terrific. I hope to see more of them in future books.
**Review: A Texas Kind of Cowboy by Delores Fossen**
⭐️⭐️⭐️ (3 out of 5 stars)
Delores Fossen’s *A Texas Kind of Cowboy* is a pleasant and straightforward romance set against the picturesque backdrop of rural Texas. While it doesn't break new ground in the romance genre, it offers a satisfying read for those who enjoy heartwarming, small-town love stories.
The story follows our rugged cowboy hero and his journey to finding love amidst the challenges of ranch life. Fossen's depiction of the Texas setting is vivid and charming, capturing the essence of wide-open spaces and close-knit communities. The landscape almost becomes a character in itself, adding a rich, atmospheric layer to the narrative.
The characters are likable, if a bit archetypal. The cowboy is stoic and strong, embodying the quintessential qualities of a romance hero. The leading lady is endearing and relatable, navigating her way through personal struggles and heartache. Their chemistry is palpable, and their interactions are filled with warmth and tenderness, making their romance believable and enjoyable.
However, the plot is somewhat predictable, following familiar tropes without much deviation. While this predictability isn’t necessarily a drawback for all readers, those looking for a more innovative or surprising storyline might find it lacking. The conflicts and resolutions are handled competently but don't offer any particularly memorable twists or turns.
Character development is adequate but not deep. The protagonists' backstories are touched upon, providing enough context to understand their motivations and growth, yet leaving some areas unexplored. Secondary characters add a nice touch to the small-town feel but remain largely in the background.
Despite its conventional plot, *A Texas Kind of Cowboy* succeeds in delivering a heartwarming romance that’s perfect for a relaxing read. Fossen's writing is engaging and smooth, making it easy to get lost in the story. The book serves well as a comfort read for fans of cowboy romances and small-town settings.
In summary, *A Texas Kind of Cowboy* by Delores Fossen earns a neutral three stars. It’s a charming, albeit predictable, romance that offers a pleasant escape to the Texas countryside. While it may not stand out for originality, its warmth and engaging characters make it a solid read for fans of the genre.
Another in the Last Ride, Texas series, in which single mom Loralei Parkman has just finalized the adoption of little Stellie when she learns that the local bull rider and ranch owner Dax Buchanan may be the baby's father and thus places her adoption in jeopardy if he decides to contest it. But he doesn't, although the late mother's husband does, and in a nasty way by hiring the man who had assaulted Loralei when she was in college as his attorney. Then the baby's grandparents also contest the adoption. What is Loralei to do?
But Dax recognizes how Loralei has mothered the baby and he decides to support her efforts, while learning that he quite likes the idea of being father to the girl. But the complexities of fighting both the late mother's husband, whom she'd been running from, as well as the grandparents provides additional stress on both of them until they can find out what information to use against the bad guys in this tale of loss and love and redemption. A great addition to the series.
The first story was for Dax & Lorelei She adopted a baby after her mother died after giving birth. Now she is wondering who the father can be. The mystery turns into a legal battle when Dana/Valerie’s parents show up. Along with her husband. There is a side story with Julian, the husband’s lawyer, that causes grief for Lorelei. Family really comes to the rescue to help Lorelei and Dax work out having Stellie in their life.
Second story Breaking Rules at Nightfall Ranch Gray & Alana Gray finds out his mother is not his birth mother and that totally throws him for a huge loop. Alana has picked Sadie Jo’s name to investigate for the Last Ride historical society. Alana was Gray’s hs girlfriend and left her 13 years ago because he couldn’t handle the pressure her parents would have given them if he had stayed. I liked that she went to a support group to deal with her past relationships.
Lorelei finds out that her adoptive daughter may have been fathered by Dax who is a well-known bull rider who is a bit of a bad boy. While they figure out paternity turns out the child 's biological mother was married and now her spouse is after that child. As a custody battle goes on Lorelei and Dax will do everything they can to keep the child from going to biologicals manipulative spouse who will fight dirty in any way that he can.
. Overall this was a pretty interesting book I've really enjoyed it. I thought it was interesting getting to know these characters and seeing at what length the biological mothers husband would go to to get that child you really get to see things escalate when it comes to him fighting dirty and bringing out things from Lorelei and Dax's past. Then there's a relationship that starts to form in between the Lorelei and Dax which I really enjoyed also there is a steamy scene or two. Overall pretty good book really enjoyed it.
A TEXAS KIND OF COWBOY by Delores Fossen, Book 3 of Last Ride, Texas series. Bonus story included: BREAKING RULES AT NIGHTFALL RANCH
Whoo! A cemetery-drawing of the Last Ride Society to dig into a deceased woman’s history brings Lorelei Parkman to Dax Buchanan’s doorstep. A photo put her sweet baby into a custody battle with a back-stabbing lawyer and his client. The dirtier the battle, the closer Dax and Lorelei become.
A TEXAS KIND OF COWBOY takes readers on a wild ride on the back of bull with Dax as he joins forces with Lorelei as their past put their chances to prevent anyone from taking Lorelei’s baby in jeopardy.
BREAKING RULES AT NIGHTFALL RANCH, a novella by Delores Fossen about how a drawing of the Last Ride Society once again brings former sweethearts together, rekindling the love they once had for each other.
Lorelei Parkman just adopted her daughter. She has been tasked with the research on the baby's mother for the Last Ride Society. She finds a photo and tracks down Dax Buchanan to check to see if it's him in the photo. Dax confirms it's his backside; they do a paternity test to see if he's the father. Since he knew the mother under another name, they are now doing a search for her family. It seems she had a husband and parents. Now the grandparents and husband want the baby. As Dax and Lorelei work together to keep the baby they become closer.
Bonus Book' Alana Parkman goes to the cemetery for a picture of the grave for her research for the Last Ride Society. Gray Russell is at the cemetery; he was her high school boyfriend. Seems Gray needs to talk to her about the grave she if visiting.
A Texas Kind of Cowboy by Delores Fossen is book #6 in the Last Ride, Texas series. I wish I could give this book more than five stars! I just have to say that this book most definitely will be in my Top Ten Reads of 2023. It has it all: sexy times, lots of action, plenty of suspense (even though it's a romance novel and not a mystery novel.), a well-written storyline, enjoyable dialogue and great characters. Ms. Fossen has come up with some nasty sleazebags and some awesome good characters. I love Lorelei and Jax as a couple. Baby Stellie is super cute. I highly recommend this book! Bravo Delores Fossen!
Another great story in this wonderful series. Lorelei has gotten Stellie adopted and is raising her. When going through the babies moms stuff she finds a picture and she knows who it belongs to. She goes to Dax and asks him about the pic.
Everything starts happening once the pic is found. It starts unraveling a mystery but brings lots of heart ache too!
Lorelei's past is coming back to haunt her and Dax is just trying to do better with his life.
This book is a page turner. The story sucks you in from the first page. I had a very hard time putting it down. I can't wait for the next story!
This is not a standalone, there is a lot going on that I wish I has read the other books so I can catch one. The main characters have so much between them that it was so hard for me to connect with them in any way. The book moves fast, from Dax being the father of the mysterious women he doesn’t remember as much, from Lorelai being the adoptive mom, them fighting for true custody, secrets being revealed from all directions, read all of the books before this one for sure.
A Texas Kind of Cowboy by Delores Fossen is a sultry, romantic read that will draw you into the world of its intriguing characters. The chemistry between them is palpable, despite the lingering attraction and the ghosts of the past that threaten to disrupt their passionate reunion. With its well-crafted story and captivating characters, this book is sure to leave you enthralled.
The second of the series of I have read. The premises are complex and innovative, the characters are developed and the HEA is there, but so are the insta-lust/love, the so-so sex scenes and the contrivance. Bu I've enjoyed this two, so t I'll probably read of all of them. Maybe it's the family history aspect that I enjoy, not sure.
2.75 stars. I know you have to suspend belief to a certain extent but there were so many things in this that I just didn't buy. Also there was simultaneously a lot of unnecessary stuff and then so much happening off page. I still enjoyed it overall but wasn't one of my faves.
This author never disappoints. There isn’t one book that I have read by this author that I did not like. I love the way she writes about family and cowboys. Kudos to the author
So this was a cute little western romance with a lot of unknown and dealing with custody is such a stressful read for me, but it definitely loved the way the book went. It was very cutesy!
I’m a sucker for a good cowboy and baby story. This book definitely is. Lorelei has adopted a baby which she finds out could be bad boy Dax. Read this wonderful book with twist and turn in it. See how family is always there in the end for Lorelei. Delores Fossen never disappoints her readers. This book is heartwarming. You will definitely want to read the other books in this series. There is an add bonus novella story with this book.
Cheesy, somewhat interesting book. The romance could have been better planned out because their relationship did not develop as much as it could have. I liked the opening bit about the tattoo, it was quite funny. Seeing Dax grow as a father was cute & it helped bring him & Lorelei together.