Luke

Coral Canyon™ Cowboys #8

by Liz Isaacson

He swore off women when his ex told him he might not be their daughter's father. But a paternity test confirmed he is, and Luke Young has dedicated his life to Corrine and his brothers' band. There hasn't been time for a girlfriend anyway. He's tried here and there, and the women in small-town Coral Canyon are certainly interested in him.

But he's been thinking about his massage therapist for a while now...

Sterling Boyd struck out on her own last year, right when Luke asks her to go on tour with him. So she says no, and they begin a delicate dance around their feelings for one another. She's desperate to prove to the haters at her former spa that she's capable, that she's worthy, that she's visible.

The problem is, no one has ever seen her before.

Until Luke. He can't get her out of his head, and when she shows up at the Young Family New Year's Eve party, the whole night takes a turn for the better. And when his parents play their silly kissing song, Sterling is the blonde bombshell right in front of him.

She's panicking, because she's just told Luke's nephew that they're dating, so he won't set Luke up with a friend of his. And when that song plays...Sterling tips up and kisses Luke right on the mouth.

Now that real feelings are out, the sparks between Luke and Sterling are hotter than ever. Will Luke's status as a single dad and local celebrity put too much strain on their new relationship? Or will they find that taking a risk on each other is worth it to find belonging and true love?

Meet the next Young brother and continue the family saga in this clean, Christian, single dad cowboy romance by USA Today and Top 10 Kindle All-Star author Liz Isaacson!

Genres: Romance, Christian

447 pages, Kindle Edition

Published September 5, 2023

About the author

★ USA TODAY BESTSELLER, AMAZON BESTSELLING AUTHOR, and KINDLE ALL STAR! ★

Liz Isaacson writes inspirational cowboy romances. Her Three Rivers Ranch Romance series has multiple #1 bestsellers in half a dozen categories. She loves all things to do with contemporary cowboys, and will write romance in Texas, Montana, Vermont, Wyoming, and anywhere else she can find horses and mountains. Find out more at lizisaacson.com. Join her fandom by texting COWBOY to 801-618-2114 for exclusive sales and freebies.

Reviews

[JigsawGirl · Rating 5 out of 5]

Luke and Sterling's romance was definitely a slow burn. If you were looking for instalove, this is not that book. I liked Luke, Sterling, and Corinne was a sweetheart.

I did like that they moved at a more cautious pace. I also liked that their path was not all smooth sailing. I think that was part of what made the Young family so endearing. They were wealthy, yet that did not save them from having issues money was not able to solve.

They had to deal with the same type of emotions anyone else had to work their way through. I was very impressed to see that they attached no stigma to seeking out professionals to assist with maintaining their emotional well being. It did not diminish their faith.

Sterling did not have the same level of wealth as Luke, but that is not what she saw in him. Their rocky beginning was testimony that Sterling was not impressed by his wealth or fame. Luke and Sterling brought insecurities into the relationship that could only be worked out with patience, time, and faith.

I waa surprised when they made such a big deal about the newspaper article. I understood Luke's reluctance regarding that, but the 5 alarm fire behavior seemed a bit ott to me.

I loved the way the family supported one another while acknowledging and accepting that each person was different. I thought it was amazing that 9+ women could get along with one another.

I also appreciated that throughout the book, there were updates on each brother, their wives, their children and their lives. I felt Bryce's pain, Corrine's sadness, and both Tex and Luke's anger and frustration at their ex-wives behavior.

I would not recommend you start with this book. I think it would be more enjoyable if read in order. If you do choose to start with Luke and Sterling's book, I do believe you will ultimately want to start at the beginning of the Young family journey.

A sweet romance filled with love, support, loyalty, a strong sense of family, faith, and an HEA. I would give this 4.5 stars. I look forward to Bryce's book.

I voluntarily read and reviewed the Advanced Reader Copy of this book.

[Victoria · Rating 5 out of 5]

Luke is the last Young brother to be featured in the series and it is probably because he has had some anger management issues to deal with and it has taken time and real work on his part to find a measure of peace in his heart. He had sworn off women years ago and dedicated himself to his band and being a single dad to his precious daughter, Corinne, who was abandoned by her mother. Then he met Sterling, a beautiful woman who was busy building her new business as a masseuse. Sterling felt the mutual attraction but she didn’t have time for anything that might take away from making her business a success. Besides, she had never met anyone, including in her own family, who made her feel seen and valued. Both Sterling and Luke are a bit gun-shy about relationships but as they become acquainted and spend time as a couple and enfolded into the big Young family, their hurts are healed and they find a way to move forward together. I have loved this series and this book! My favorite part about it is the characters themselves and how they all find their places together as a family unit supporting one another, forbearing with each other’s weaknesses, forgiving, helping, and enjoying one another, etc. It feels real and it makes me want to be a part of the family. I’m so glad we are going to get a bonus book with Bryce’s story before the series ends. I hope there will be a spin-off series that features the Young cousins because I am not ready to say goodbye to this family. I received an ARC and this voluntary review contains my honest opinions.

[The Flipped Page (Susan K) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Romance, sweet, Christian, contemporary, western setting; series, but mostly stand alone read
Sterling and Luke's story was a lovely read. L.I. knows how to write characters with character, caring and true hearts, and great family moments along with the sweet romance. I love the glimpses of other family members, the small and large every day moments for all the family that make a great story. The family texts, the wives/sisters text thread, that gets Sterling into the family more.
Luke's daughter was so sweet as well, and Luke's care and concern for her (learning how to braid and do her hair? So sweet! What a great Dad!). She added a sweet dimension to this novel that just made it even more real.
The nuances of their relationship, the back and forth were just so natural, and Luke and Sterling had a lovely attraction and chemistry that made the HEA so great! Loved the weddings, babies, and all the moments. L.I. is a perfect story teller, that gets to the heart of what readers love! Family, sweet romance, and a bit of faith mixed in!
I received an ARC in exchange for a fair and honest review, my opinions are my own.

[Kylene · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow, wow this story was amazing. It seems like every issue Luke and Sterling had made them perfect for each other and still kept them at odds with each other. This book makes me want to read it again and again. I just recently suffered the loss of my oldest son and my heart has been shattered. Who would have thought a work of fiction could have words in it that brought some healing to my heart and helped me understand some things. In this story Trace is having to deal with his son growing up and is asking God to help him. He has the thought that holding unto yours kids is like trying to hold unto a handful of smoke and no matter what you can’t do it. I realized that was what I was trying to do was hold on and he is no longer here for me to hold unto.. Sorry to get so personal, but I have yet to read one of Liz Isaacson’s books that does not have something that speaks to my heart. Wonderful gift to me from her.

[Michaela | Reading in the Heartland · Rating 5 out of 5]

"It was all new to him. But not to God. He had been in these situations before. He knew how to lead His children along this path."

“What would you do if you had more faith?” This is a theme that reoccurs in this book. I loved how intensely this book revolves around Christianity. It is one of my favorites of this series. Nothing we are going through is new to God. It may be hard and overwhelming to us, but to Him it’s all second nature. I loved these characters and their story. I’m sad that we’re at the end of the Young brothers by excited to jump right over to Bryce in the next generation. These books are lengthy and perfection. Filled with faith and family, a small town, celebrity country music stars, and so much more. I received an ARC of this book and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.

[Diane · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fantastic series! A stubborn man with no time for women and an independent business woman with no close family, of course sparks will fly! And he is a fantastic father to the cutest little girl that really needs a mother. This sweet love story will keep you engaged from the very beginning. I love the way these rough, tough cowboys become putty in the hands of all the children in the family. These are mature characters that deal with their problems by relying on their faith in God and family to get them through. I have enjoyed every book in this series and hate that it is very close to the end. Don’t miss this latest clean, inspirational romance from Liz Isaacson. (This is a standalone book. But if it is your first book in the series, I recommend starting at the beginning!)

[Kristen Lewendon · Rating 5 out of 5]

The sweeping saga that is the Young family, continues with Luke, the last single member of this generation of Young sons. I loved that this was something of a second chance romance, since we witnessed Luke and Sterling fail to connect during an earlier attempt. I really appreciated the slow build up in their relationship; taking time for both of them to learn about each other, heal from their pasts, and let Luke’s daughter adjust to the changing circumstances. The ever-evolving family supporting them was incredibly special to see, and I adored watching as the family continued to grow. I can’t wait to see what the author has in store for the next generation of Youngs.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author.

[Denice · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is such a great addition to the series, I absolutely loved it, and the whole Young family. I loved how Luke and Sterling were finally able to find their happily ever after. They had struggles they had to overcome but they are so perfect for each other. I love the faith elements in this story, one quote I really liked was when Luke said, ‘He knew God did not forget even a single one of His children.’ I enjoyed reading about the other members of the Young family, the new babies, marriages, all of it. I love reading books by Liz Isaacson as I know I will always find wonderful stories with real life struggles but always end in a HEA in a clean sweet way.

[Marilyn · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a great series of brothers who are country music stars and rodeo stars. Liz weaves characters from the whole family into each book. But Luke is the star of this book. He has a small daughter Corrine. He has a crush on a massage therapist, but his relationships with women have not gone well. Sterling went out on her own after working for another business. They have not treated her well and she struggles with that. Luke and Sterling like each other, but they seem to clash a lot. Will they be able to sort things out and build a strong relationship. I received an ARC of this book and I am giving an honest review.

[Mary · Rating 5 out of 5]

Luke is the newest story and the youngest Young brother and the last one single. It is a story of overcoming anger, fear, and just getting past your demons for Luke to emerge the man that Sterling has came to love. They share a desire to be married and make a family for Corrine, one that has a mother. And a mother is what Sterling has figured out she wants. This story will introduce you to Carver, Canyon, and Anaya all making their first appearance after a long wait. You will find this story is full of laughs, tears, both happy and worry, and all the fun that a large family brings with them.

[Ginger Price-Perkins · Rating 5 out of 5]

I fell in love with Sterling and Luke as they fell in love. There are so many incites into family members from past stories and hints of future stories. You get to see Denzel and Michelle find each other and marry. Bryce moves to his own home in Coral Canyon. The Young family finds a way to accept OJ being loved by both the Whittikers and themselves around a huge Christmas tree. Harry explores a solo music career while Trace struggles with it. There are babies, including one that is a true surprise blessing. And a show stopping wedding that surprises even Luke. If you love the Young family, you can not miss this book.

[Jan Niblock · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the last story of the 9 Young brothers – there might be more stories about the kids but this is the end of the nine. I am thinking that maybe this one is my favorite because you are already familiar with everyone else’s story at this point. This story made my eyes tear up so many times, looking at how everyone delt with whatever came their way. It was so nice to read about a family who stuck together, helped each other and made sure that no one was alone to deal with the hard things.

I loved how Sterling and Luke overcame their insecurities and were there for each other. The ending was so cool, I could picture it in my mind.

[Tabitha · Rating 5 out of 5]

Each of this book's series has built on the others so much that the depths of emotion and characters are amazing. I love the family bonds, the kids, the traditions, the fun, and the support when things are not so great. Luke, just like the rest, has overcome many obstacles to get to a point in his life where he might date and fall in love. Sterling has gone through a lot as well. Can they make it? Plus all of Luke's brothers as well as sisters in law and his nephews. Lots going on. Looking forward to the next book as well. Clean romance. Difficult topics mentioned but not dwelt on.

[Shelley Wahls]

Sterling and Luke are quite the pair, I love this book and this couple, we get to see the growth of both of them, their insecurities, highs, and lows. She is a massage therapist, he is a country music star, so lots to maneuver for this relationship. This is a clean read that lets us in on the rest of the family and follows this couples journey toward love. This is book 8 of this family saga and it does not disappoint. There are no cliff hangers but we do get a taste of of what the next book has in store too.

[Debbie Eyre · Rating 5 out of 5]

Luke and Sterling's Story is simply a wonderful slow burn romance. It was fantastic to see their journey to each other, to get around the obstacles in their way which at times was themselves! Both have their own demons to deal with and it was lovely to see them overcome these and find their path. It’s an emotional read, fun and it was wonderful to catch up with some old friends and family and see how they were coming along. It’s a fantastic series with likeable and relatable characters and with real life problems to overcome.

[Lynn Hyman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Feels Like a Group Hug

I love these books, this family, and all the others who get drawn into them. Luke and Sterling are perfect for each other. It's a beautiful story of the Lord repaying the years the locusts had eaten. Ex-wife Mandi was still a painful issue to be worked out. Little Corinne's hurt is dealt with in a gracious manner. We get to see both Luke and Sterling work on personal issues, as well as peeks into others' personal thoughts and emotions. Lovely, heartwarming book with a happy ending.

[Lucia Valenzuela · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such a wonderful love story with all the ups and downs, doubts and emotions. Even though this is basically Sterling and Luke’s story, I love how all the Young family continues to be involved. We get all the updates on all the family members. There are weddings and babies. Family get togethers and crises. I love all the characters and family interactions.
I received a free copy of this book and this is my voluntary, honest review.

[Sandra Hartzel · Rating 5 out of 5]

I had an ARC for this book, but this is my voluntary and honest opinion. Luke Young wants a relationship with Sterling Boyd, his massage therapist, but must manage his darker side and emotions, and learn to trust. This is a great addition to this series and has a super wedding scene at the end. I enjoy the way Liz Isaacson explores the different character’s personalities and their relationships. A super read.

[Amanda Marlowe · Rating 4 out of 5]

Luke wanted to ask Stirling out ages ago, before the last tour, but he messed it up. Now he's decided he's in a better place, and tries again. Can Stirling accept that hes famous and likely to be stopped for autographs and photos? Should Luke introduce her to Corinne yet? Bearing in mind her mother doesn't want anything to do with her?
It's nice to catch up with the other Youngs.

Another good read in the series from Liz

[Paula · Rating 5 out of 5]

Luke and Sterling have a bit of a rocky past. Can he give love another chance - and with the only girl he really longs for? The Young brothers are always fun to read about and this book and couple is probably my favorite - well so far. He is one cautious cowboy who an adorable daughter, Corrine. Seeing them all bond was so very sweet. Of course there is potential obstacles but love wins out in the end. Can't wait to read Bryce's book.

[Alison Ramsay · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved Luke and Sterling. I liked how they both coped with hopes and fears and how they both saw the real Luke and Sterling. Though they struggled to get to their HEA, there was no drastic break up/make up but simply a slow burn and careful romance given that Luke had his daughter Corinne to think of. There is a lot of family love and drama and updates which gives depth to the characters such that you are invested in their lives. I just love this family.

[Barb · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Coral Canyon series doesn’t disappoint. Luke and Sterling’s journey has all the elements you love to read and you feel like you’re a part of the story with each new chapter. When they say “I see you”, you can almost feel the emotions growing. A catch up of all the Young Family couples is included along with a peak of what’s to come. Each book in the series leaves you looking forward to the next release! Can’t wait for Bryce’s story!

[Karen Brasher · Rating 5 out of 5]

Luke: A Young Brothers Novel

Following this fictional family has been great. The stories focus on one particular couple but actually tell of the dynamics of the entire family. This is a wonderful story of the last of the brothers to find a companion, Luke, who has really liked his massage therapist, Sterling Boyd, for a long time. Will he be able to talk with her like a civilized man? How will his daughter react to Sterling?

[Elaine Kiefer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another great story of love, family, and healing. The last Young brother gets his second chance at a happily ever after. Luke has been the dark, brooding brother, but he is trying to be a better man. His walk has not been easy, but with the love and support of Sterling and his entire family he is able to find his way. I always love that these books are not just about one individual, but about the whole big, loud, loving family. And, no one writes proposals and weddings like this author.

[Margie · Rating 5 out of 5]

We’ve been hoping a long time for Luke’s story and Liz Isaacson didn’t disappoint. I love that a man who is a county music star and billionaire can be so shy and quiet. We know he has problems with the fact that the one person he wants to date is his massage therapist and has seen and touched him undressed. The Young family has been entertaining and heart touching and I’m glad that even when the series ends, the author usually keeps us connected to the families. Be ready to laugh and cry as Luke navigates his life as a Young brother, a single dad, a music star and a boyfriend.

[Joan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Luke and Sterling

I enjoyed this final book in the Coral Canyon series. The Young family is big and boisterous and loving and endearing. I liked catching up with some of the other characters. I liked reading as Luke grew and became a better person. I liked as Sterling discovered things about herself. I laughed with them. I cried with them. I enjoyed this book in so many ways. If you enjoy good, clean, family, fun, drama, and romance you should like Luke.

[Dale Lussier · Rating 5 out of 5]

Luke A Young Brothers Novel

Luke Young the last Young brother to remarry. Has come a long way since moving back to Coral Canyon to be near the other brothers in the band and raise his little girl.Sterling Boyd guitar the apache worked at and started her own business Deep Purple and took her best customer Luke with her. After a year of being harassed by her former co workers things finally start to improve for her. Will Luke finally get nerve to ask her out.

[Charlotte Runnels · Rating 4 out of 5]

Luke

This book to me had its ups and downs. But as it got toward the end wow I couldn’t stop reading. I love how the Young brothers always show love for their children. Before they even consider marriage they involve the children in on it, and the children can feel the love from the lady they marry.
My heart has went out to Bryce, after giving his son up for adoption. It is fantastic that he has come back home, I am excited to see how his life is going to play out.

[Paula Bond · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hold onto your cowboy hats, folks, Luke is finally about to get his HEA! And you don’t want to miss it. Once again Liz Issacson lives up to her Feel-Good Fiction brand as she weaves Luke’s story and draws you into the Young family. Luke has waited a long time to be ready for the love of his life, and you’ll find his story to be one of patience, forgiveness and love. Heartwarming romantic fiction at it’s best. I received this book as an ARC reader, and this is my honest opinion.

[Mary Jane McLeod · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love this Series

I absolutely love reading about the Young family. This book is Luke's story and these stories seem to just keep getting better. I love how Luke and Sterling both turn to God to help them grow together. A captivating read that I didn't want to end. I anxiously await Bryce's book.