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Home at Last Texas #1
Making a Texas Cowboy
Texas is a chance to start over….
Jackson Thorpe looks like he has it all—the star of the hottest modern day western—he’s wealthy and adored by millions. But after the loss of his wife in a horrific accident, he walks away from Hollywood to be close to his widowed sister in Last Stand, Texas, hoping the change will help his young son emotionally heal.
Sought after horse trainer, Nicole Baylor, is cowgirl to her core. She loathes the popular western series and its absurdly handsome star because the show is so fake—it’s even shot in California. Putting on a Stetson does not make a man a cowboy, and she’s had enough of men pretending. But when a worried Jackson asks for help with his son, Nic, though wary, agrees.
Jackson’s uncomfortable taking help from a beautiful cowgirl who clearly doesn’t like him or what he does, but after seeing his son’s progress, he now worries Nic may have lassoed his heart.
Jackson Thorpe looks like he has it all—the star of the hottest modern day western—he’s wealthy and adored by millions. But after the loss of his wife in a horrific accident, he walks away from Hollywood to be close to his widowed sister in Last Stand, Texas, hoping the change will help his young son emotionally heal.
Sought after horse trainer, Nicole Baylor, is cowgirl to her core. She loathes the popular western series and its absurdly handsome star because the show is so fake—it’s even shot in California. Putting on a Stetson does not make a man a cowboy, and she’s had enough of men pretending. But when a worried Jackson asks for help with his son, Nic, though wary, agrees.
Jackson’s uncomfortable taking help from a beautiful cowgirl who clearly doesn’t like him or what he does, but after seeing his son’s progress, he now worries Nic may have lassoed his heart.
300 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 24, 2024
39 people are currently reading
26 people want to read
About the author
Justine Davis
252 books216 followersAuthor biographies are supposed to give you all those statistics, books written, awards won, etc. and I will, I promise...but first let me tell you about this ornery little tomboy (back then, the boys had all the fun...) who was always the one to make up the stories the neighborhood kids would "play". For those who came of age in the computer game era, this is something that was done usually in the backyard, by any number of summer-bored children, with props where appropriate. (Did you know a 55 gallon drum tied to a picnic bench makes a very cool horse?) It wasn't until much later that this tomboy realized two things: A) not everyone made up stories in their heads all the time, and B) in real life, the boys that had already had all the fun now seemed to always be winning.
But I digress. I was born on a farm down in Iowa....well, not quite, but close; Boone, Iowa is in the middle of farm country, but I arrived at a hospital. In a snow storm. Make that a blizzard. My sister tells me she knew my destiny when I was very young, because when I first saw the Disney classic Old Yeller, I was apparently so upset that I promptly went home and rewrote the story. In my version, the dog lived, of course. Should have been a clue.
Possibly in response to that blizzard I was born in, I've been a West Coaster since before I was a year old, and intend to stay that way. I have a history of staying. I started my first full time job right out of school (well, there was a very brief sojourn at a place where they made, among other things, burial vaults, but I prefer not to recall that one...) and stayed for twenty-one years. I've been married to the same wonderful guy for going on two decades now. We lived in our last house for seventeen years. (I won't even mention how many dumpsters we filled moving after that long....)
Readers seem as fascinated by my first career as they are with my writing. My time in law enforcement was many things, exciting, nerve wracking, and irritating, but most importantly never, ever boring. It was fascinating enough that I didn't think about writing seriously for several years. I kept a journal, and wrote long letters, collected quotes, mentally rewrote movies, and still made up those stories in my head, but never dreamed of actually writing for publication. I was having too much fun helping to catch bad guys, and being continually amazed at the situations people get themselves into. And eventually I walked away with a wealth of background and story ideas, and knowing some truly great people who work very hard to keep all of us safe. I'm proud to have been one of them, and I'm very aware that I have had the great good fortune of having had two jobs in my life that I love. Many people don't get even one.
But now that I'm in the delicious position of being able to make a living telling those stories in my head, I promise my readers two things: A) I'm staying--I'll keep writing as long as you keep reading, and B) in my stories, the girl--tomboy or not--always wins!
~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~
And now, the official stats:
Justine Dare Davis sold her first book in 1989, and followed that up with the sale of nineteen novels in less than two years. Her first four books were published in 1991, and she saw all reach the finals for either the Romantic Times Reviewer's Choice Award or the Romance Writers of America prestigious RITA Award. She has since won the RITA award four times, along with several Reviewer's Choice awards and three Career Achievement awards from Romantic Times. At the 1998 national conference, Justine was inducted into the RWA Hall of Fame, making her one of a very select group of just eight writers. She also had four titles on the Romantic Times "Top 200 of All Time" list. Her sales now total more than 45, and her books have appeared regularly on best seller lists, including the USA Today list. She has been featured in several local newspapers and nationwide by Associated Press, has appeared on CN
But I digress. I was born on a farm down in Iowa....well, not quite, but close; Boone, Iowa is in the middle of farm country, but I arrived at a hospital. In a snow storm. Make that a blizzard. My sister tells me she knew my destiny when I was very young, because when I first saw the Disney classic Old Yeller, I was apparently so upset that I promptly went home and rewrote the story. In my version, the dog lived, of course. Should have been a clue.
Possibly in response to that blizzard I was born in, I've been a West Coaster since before I was a year old, and intend to stay that way. I have a history of staying. I started my first full time job right out of school (well, there was a very brief sojourn at a place where they made, among other things, burial vaults, but I prefer not to recall that one...) and stayed for twenty-one years. I've been married to the same wonderful guy for going on two decades now. We lived in our last house for seventeen years. (I won't even mention how many dumpsters we filled moving after that long....)
Readers seem as fascinated by my first career as they are with my writing. My time in law enforcement was many things, exciting, nerve wracking, and irritating, but most importantly never, ever boring. It was fascinating enough that I didn't think about writing seriously for several years. I kept a journal, and wrote long letters, collected quotes, mentally rewrote movies, and still made up those stories in my head, but never dreamed of actually writing for publication. I was having too much fun helping to catch bad guys, and being continually amazed at the situations people get themselves into. And eventually I walked away with a wealth of background and story ideas, and knowing some truly great people who work very hard to keep all of us safe. I'm proud to have been one of them, and I'm very aware that I have had the great good fortune of having had two jobs in my life that I love. Many people don't get even one.
But now that I'm in the delicious position of being able to make a living telling those stories in my head, I promise my readers two things: A) I'm staying--I'll keep writing as long as you keep reading, and B) in my stories, the girl--tomboy or not--always wins!
~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~
And now, the official stats:
Justine Dare Davis sold her first book in 1989, and followed that up with the sale of nineteen novels in less than two years. Her first four books were published in 1991, and she saw all reach the finals for either the Romantic Times Reviewer's Choice Award or the Romance Writers of America prestigious RITA Award. She has since won the RITA award four times, along with several Reviewer's Choice awards and three Career Achievement awards from Romantic Times. At the 1998 national conference, Justine was inducted into the RWA Hall of Fame, making her one of a very select group of just eight writers. She also had four titles on the Romantic Times "Top 200 of All Time" list. Her sales now total more than 45, and her books have appeared regularly on best seller lists, including the USA Today list. She has been featured in several local newspapers and nationwide by Associated Press, has appeared on CN
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews
September 23, 2024
This is a sweet, moving and heart-warming story, meeting Hollywood Heartthrob Jackson Thorpe and his seven year old son Jeremy as they arrive in Last Stand, Texas, will this trip help with their grieving after the tragic loss of wife and mother?
Jackson is starring in the hit Stonewall he is happily married to Leah with a young son when everything turns upside down when Leah is killed in a car accident, two years on and his son is not coping maybe it is time to move on, packing up himself and Jeremy they take a trip to visit his widowed sister in Last Stand Texas, will this be what they both need?
Nic Baylor is known as a horse whisper, she loves her horses and her life and is not interested in any handsome Hollywood star who works on something that is not real as she believes, but when he arrives in town with his young son her heart goes out to Jeremy and soon they are visiting her family ranch learning to ride and as Nic gets to know Jackson maybe her ideas about him are changing as well.
Could Nic and Jackson find a life together, one filled with love and happiness, a new life for them as a family after all that has happened? This is a beautiful story one that I highly recommend, fabulous setting, wonderful characters that had me smiling throughout I look forward to more trips to Last Stand Texas.
My thanks to Tule Publishing for my digital copy to read and review.
Jackson is starring in the hit Stonewall he is happily married to Leah with a young son when everything turns upside down when Leah is killed in a car accident, two years on and his son is not coping maybe it is time to move on, packing up himself and Jeremy they take a trip to visit his widowed sister in Last Stand Texas, will this be what they both need?
Nic Baylor is known as a horse whisper, she loves her horses and her life and is not interested in any handsome Hollywood star who works on something that is not real as she believes, but when he arrives in town with his young son her heart goes out to Jeremy and soon they are visiting her family ranch learning to ride and as Nic gets to know Jackson maybe her ideas about him are changing as well.
Could Nic and Jackson find a life together, one filled with love and happiness, a new life for them as a family after all that has happened? This is a beautiful story one that I highly recommend, fabulous setting, wonderful characters that had me smiling throughout I look forward to more trips to Last Stand Texas.
My thanks to Tule Publishing for my digital copy to read and review.
October 18, 2025
Reviewed at Happily Ever After Romance
Making a Texas Cowboy begins the Home at Last series, set in one of my favorite fictional small towns, Last Stand, Texas. It brings together Jackson, an actor who plays a cowboy on his hit television series, and Nicole (Nic), who is actually a cowgirl, horse trainer/horse whisperer, in an almost enemies-to-lovers romance… or at least a very one-sided strong dislike on Nic’s part. There might be sparks flying between them, but whether those small flames are from attraction or annoyance isn’t always easy to separate.
Jackson’s wife was killed in a car accident a few years ago, and today both Jackson and his son, Jeremy, are still somewhat devastated… Jeremy, more so, as his personality has changed so much since his mother’s death, becoming silent and nothing like the boisterous boy he once was. Seeing his son’s emotional distress, Jackson decided to walk away from Hollywood to visit his sister, who lives in Last Stand, thinking to give them both a break, a different environment, and perhaps healing as well. He never expected the small miracle that Nic brought about for his son, even though it’s hard not to notice how she loathes the boy’s father… but if being here, working with Nic, will help his son heal, then Jackson’s not going anywhere.
The funny thing about preconceived ideas is that they are often so incorrect as to be laughable. Nic was so sure she knew exactly what Jackson was… yet, his obvious love and devotion to his son, his willingness to do anything, even remotely possible, to help Jeremy heal, will slowly begin to change her mind. And it doesn’t hurt that he’s as attractive as sin, and sets her heart aflutter in a totally unexpected way. If they can just let down their walls for a bit, let each other in, they might discover that they both love a little boy who’s coming back to life again… and each other.
I loved Making a Texas Cowboy by Justine Davis so much. I originally read this one while I was in the hospital for an extended period of time, and figured it’s far past time to get the reviews posted for this series. Jackson and Nicole are believable, even relatable people. Each is dealing with what life has tossed at them in their own unique way. Watching their journey to a happy ending was an enjoyable, emotional, if rocky at times, journey. I adored Jeremy, and my heart both broke at his pain and rejoiced as he learned that it’s ok to let go of the past while keeping the memory alive. There is a bit of suspense going on as well, some surprising turns that I didn’t see coming quite as clearly as I should have, but I loved that aspect of this story as well. Being surprised by a story is not a bad thing. 🙂
If you’ve read other stories set in the Last Stand, Texas world, then you might recognize some familiar faces as the members of the Highwater and Rafferty families do have a definite part in this new series… now secondary characters, yet it’s always fun for me to run into folks from previous series and imagine/get an update on their lives now.
Making a Texas Cowboy is well-written (I always expect that from this author) and full of all the emotions you could possibly imagine. If you love starting a new series, based in a fiction world that’s not only familiar but comforting in a way, with a couple that deserve their happily ever after ending, then you’d love this one.
I own a Kindle edition of this story.
Making a Texas Cowboy begins the Home at Last series, set in one of my favorite fictional small towns, Last Stand, Texas. It brings together Jackson, an actor who plays a cowboy on his hit television series, and Nicole (Nic), who is actually a cowgirl, horse trainer/horse whisperer, in an almost enemies-to-lovers romance… or at least a very one-sided strong dislike on Nic’s part. There might be sparks flying between them, but whether those small flames are from attraction or annoyance isn’t always easy to separate.
Jackson’s wife was killed in a car accident a few years ago, and today both Jackson and his son, Jeremy, are still somewhat devastated… Jeremy, more so, as his personality has changed so much since his mother’s death, becoming silent and nothing like the boisterous boy he once was. Seeing his son’s emotional distress, Jackson decided to walk away from Hollywood to visit his sister, who lives in Last Stand, thinking to give them both a break, a different environment, and perhaps healing as well. He never expected the small miracle that Nic brought about for his son, even though it’s hard not to notice how she loathes the boy’s father… but if being here, working with Nic, will help his son heal, then Jackson’s not going anywhere.
The funny thing about preconceived ideas is that they are often so incorrect as to be laughable. Nic was so sure she knew exactly what Jackson was… yet, his obvious love and devotion to his son, his willingness to do anything, even remotely possible, to help Jeremy heal, will slowly begin to change her mind. And it doesn’t hurt that he’s as attractive as sin, and sets her heart aflutter in a totally unexpected way. If they can just let down their walls for a bit, let each other in, they might discover that they both love a little boy who’s coming back to life again… and each other.
I loved Making a Texas Cowboy by Justine Davis so much. I originally read this one while I was in the hospital for an extended period of time, and figured it’s far past time to get the reviews posted for this series. Jackson and Nicole are believable, even relatable people. Each is dealing with what life has tossed at them in their own unique way. Watching their journey to a happy ending was an enjoyable, emotional, if rocky at times, journey. I adored Jeremy, and my heart both broke at his pain and rejoiced as he learned that it’s ok to let go of the past while keeping the memory alive. There is a bit of suspense going on as well, some surprising turns that I didn’t see coming quite as clearly as I should have, but I loved that aspect of this story as well. Being surprised by a story is not a bad thing. 🙂
If you’ve read other stories set in the Last Stand, Texas world, then you might recognize some familiar faces as the members of the Highwater and Rafferty families do have a definite part in this new series… now secondary characters, yet it’s always fun for me to run into folks from previous series and imagine/get an update on their lives now.
Making a Texas Cowboy is well-written (I always expect that from this author) and full of all the emotions you could possibly imagine. If you love starting a new series, based in a fiction world that’s not only familiar but comforting in a way, with a couple that deserve their happily ever after ending, then you’d love this one.
I own a Kindle edition of this story.
September 24, 2024
Making a Texas Cowboy is the first book in Justine Davis’s terrific new series, Home at Last Texas. The book is set in Tule Publishing’s imaginary town of Last Stand, Texas. I have read many books set here and it is nice to return. Justine has included some of the characters from her prior series set in Last Stand, the Raffertys and the Highwaters. In this book we meet Nicole Baylor whose family’s ranch is next to the Highwaters. She is known as an excellent horse trainer, her father owns Black Angus and her mom is a tutor.
Jackson Thorpe is the star of a hit tv series set in the Texas hill country but filmed in Los Angeles. His wife was killed tragically two years earlier and his young son is still not doing well from her loss. When he finally shows interest in the ranch from the tv show, Jackson makes the decision to leave and take him to visit his sister in Last Stand. She is a widow and teaches school there. They take his son to see the famous statue and the historic saloon and he was fascinated. Jackson is thrilled as he hasn’t been able to get him to eat much or show any interest in anything. The owner of the saloon directs him to the library to learn more. He also meets Nic Baylor and she is not impressed with him. She hates that the show is a fake depiction of the hill country. She has a preconceived notion about actors, especially Jackson and isn’t welcoming to him initially. She invites his son to come to her family ranch to see the horses there. Nic takes a liking to his son and is very sympathetic to what they’ve gone through. They go to the ranch and it’s a wonderful thing for his son. Jackson has so much hope now and is glad he left California.
Nic maintains her disdain of Jackson while spending time with his son teaching him to ride. He learns that her mom is a tutor and they speak to her about tutoring his son since it is looking like they are planning to stay for a while. Nic grudgingly proposes that Jackson and his son move into the vacant cottage on the property. He agrees and starts helping her dad with chores while his son is in school and horse riding lessons there. As Nic learns more about Jackson’s character, her opinion of him changes. She becomes attracted to him. He is surprised to realize he is attracted to her as well. He had not had any feelings since losing his wife and didn’t think it was possible. As they share a kiss they realize there is something there. With the future for them uncertain, Nic is worried about her heart. Jackson will have to make a decision about the future for him and his son. There are some twists and suspense as well as romance in the book.
This is a very well written book. Justine created some genuine characters in this book. Jackson, Nic and his sister are all so likable. I loved when the various Highwater and Raffertys made appearances in this book. I previously read all the books from both series and thoroughly enjoyed them as part of this new story as well. Sometimes an author will mention a former character, but in this case several of them had larger parts in the story. It was wonderful seeing how both Jackson and Nic’s characters grew and developed in the story. This is a five star book I highly recommend.
I was fortunate to receive an ARC from Tule Publishing in exchange for my honest review.
Jackson Thorpe is the star of a hit tv series set in the Texas hill country but filmed in Los Angeles. His wife was killed tragically two years earlier and his young son is still not doing well from her loss. When he finally shows interest in the ranch from the tv show, Jackson makes the decision to leave and take him to visit his sister in Last Stand. She is a widow and teaches school there. They take his son to see the famous statue and the historic saloon and he was fascinated. Jackson is thrilled as he hasn’t been able to get him to eat much or show any interest in anything. The owner of the saloon directs him to the library to learn more. He also meets Nic Baylor and she is not impressed with him. She hates that the show is a fake depiction of the hill country. She has a preconceived notion about actors, especially Jackson and isn’t welcoming to him initially. She invites his son to come to her family ranch to see the horses there. Nic takes a liking to his son and is very sympathetic to what they’ve gone through. They go to the ranch and it’s a wonderful thing for his son. Jackson has so much hope now and is glad he left California.
Nic maintains her disdain of Jackson while spending time with his son teaching him to ride. He learns that her mom is a tutor and they speak to her about tutoring his son since it is looking like they are planning to stay for a while. Nic grudgingly proposes that Jackson and his son move into the vacant cottage on the property. He agrees and starts helping her dad with chores while his son is in school and horse riding lessons there. As Nic learns more about Jackson’s character, her opinion of him changes. She becomes attracted to him. He is surprised to realize he is attracted to her as well. He had not had any feelings since losing his wife and didn’t think it was possible. As they share a kiss they realize there is something there. With the future for them uncertain, Nic is worried about her heart. Jackson will have to make a decision about the future for him and his son. There are some twists and suspense as well as romance in the book.
This is a very well written book. Justine created some genuine characters in this book. Jackson, Nic and his sister are all so likable. I loved when the various Highwater and Raffertys made appearances in this book. I previously read all the books from both series and thoroughly enjoyed them as part of this new story as well. Sometimes an author will mention a former character, but in this case several of them had larger parts in the story. It was wonderful seeing how both Jackson and Nic’s characters grew and developed in the story. This is a five star book I highly recommend.
I was fortunate to receive an ARC from Tule Publishing in exchange for my honest review.
September 24, 2024
This is a very good book. I absolutely love the love story and how it was began with Jackson and Nicole. What began as tolerating a person ended with a deep respect and love for said person. In the beginning what people see as a fake cowboy that is trying to be something he is not. All because Jackson Thorpe plays a cowboy on tv and does a darned good job of it. The show is number one and has no sign of slowing down anytime soon but Jackson has other plans. He lost his wife Leah in a car about two years ago and since then his 7 year-old son Jeremy is drifting further and further away from him daily. They have a beautiful house on the beach in California but can not really enjoy being outside enjoying the beach because of him. His show has gotten so popular that he is constantly hounded by the press wanting their next story. He really does not mind but right now give them time to grieve and show some respect. Which is something that no one has given them so far. They are on the beach one day when the press comes scrambling across the rock trying to talk with him and he grabs Jeremy up and they go inside. When they go inside Jeremy does not stand at the door and look outside at what he is missing but instead he sits on the couch with his back to the door. There is a painting above the fireplace across from him, he is just looking at the picture with a gleam in his eyes. Jackson hears him say "I wish that place was real so we could go there". He explains that place is real, it is Texas where Aunt Tris lives. Tris is Jackson's sister and she lost her husband David about 4 years ago so she knows all too well about grieving for a loved one.
So we are on the way to Texas to start over and to give Jeremy and me a chance to heal. I miss my wife and he misses his mother but she would not want us to live this way.
I got this book from Book Sprout and will be happy to leave my review.
So we are on the way to Texas to start over and to give Jeremy and me a chance to heal. I miss my wife and he misses his mother but she would not want us to live this way.
I got this book from Book Sprout and will be happy to leave my review.
August 25, 2024
Making a Texas Cowboy by Justine Davis
This story start with Jackson and he's a movie star on a tv series about Texas. He had lost his wife and they have a child Jeremy who's not talked since her death. Jackson is figuring out ways that might get him out of his shell and he starts talking to him about visiting his sister, Aunt Tris in Last Stand, TX.
he starts talking and asking a lot of questions and they just up and move. Jackson takes a month off on the show that is being filmed. They are welcomed to the new town and others know who he is, an outsider, so far.
He starts engaging with others and he becomes familiar sight around town. Jeremey is spending time at the horse ranch where Nicole is taking care of him, teaching him everything about horses. Her mom in a wheelchair still rides her horse. They have all kinds of special equipment for others who need it.
Adult situations. Love the community and what it means to be on the telephone tree, scenery, the real way ranches are run, not like in TV show, and what it means to wear a cowboy hat. it has to be earned. When the head of the movie shows up the boy runs away with his horse. During a lightening, thunder storm. The telephone tree is put into effect. All hands on to find the boy…..
Learned so many new words and more about tequila and military with their canines.
Can't wait to read more from this author.
Received this review copy from Tule Publishing and this is my honest opinion.
This story start with Jackson and he's a movie star on a tv series about Texas. He had lost his wife and they have a child Jeremy who's not talked since her death. Jackson is figuring out ways that might get him out of his shell and he starts talking to him about visiting his sister, Aunt Tris in Last Stand, TX.
he starts talking and asking a lot of questions and they just up and move. Jackson takes a month off on the show that is being filmed. They are welcomed to the new town and others know who he is, an outsider, so far.
He starts engaging with others and he becomes familiar sight around town. Jeremey is spending time at the horse ranch where Nicole is taking care of him, teaching him everything about horses. Her mom in a wheelchair still rides her horse. They have all kinds of special equipment for others who need it.
Adult situations. Love the community and what it means to be on the telephone tree, scenery, the real way ranches are run, not like in TV show, and what it means to wear a cowboy hat. it has to be earned. When the head of the movie shows up the boy runs away with his horse. During a lightening, thunder storm. The telephone tree is put into effect. All hands on to find the boy…..
Learned so many new words and more about tequila and military with their canines.
Can't wait to read more from this author.
Received this review copy from Tule Publishing and this is my honest opinion.
September 26, 2024
First of all, I have loved Justine Davis' books since I first read one of her very early books called "Badge of Honor." So I always look forward to reading anything new to me by her. So being able to start a new series from Ms. Davis is always a great read.
This book is a wonderful addition to the fictional town created by Tule Publishing called Last Stand, Texas. Last Stand is a wonderful imaginary town set in the Texas Hill Country. So many wonderful characters living there and the town keeps expanding.
Take one hot actor, Jackson Thorpe, who unexpectedly becomes a widower after a tragic event. He realizes that his young son isn't handling the loss of his mother. Jackson realizes that the only interest his son has right now is ranching. So he decides to head back to his family ranch in Last Chance.
Nic Bailey is a highly respected and in demand horse trainer in the region. And she has an issue with Jackson Thorpe. She dislikes how ranches are portrayed on television. And she has yet to meet him.
So does her opinion change after meeting him? Can two people with different views of the world come together and find a new life together? You will need to read this fast paced novella to see how these two find their rocky path to a new life together.
I did receive a copy of this book in advance from the publisher in exchange for a fair and unbiased review.
This book is a wonderful addition to the fictional town created by Tule Publishing called Last Stand, Texas. Last Stand is a wonderful imaginary town set in the Texas Hill Country. So many wonderful characters living there and the town keeps expanding.
Take one hot actor, Jackson Thorpe, who unexpectedly becomes a widower after a tragic event. He realizes that his young son isn't handling the loss of his mother. Jackson realizes that the only interest his son has right now is ranching. So he decides to head back to his family ranch in Last Chance.
Nic Bailey is a highly respected and in demand horse trainer in the region. And she has an issue with Jackson Thorpe. She dislikes how ranches are portrayed on television. And she has yet to meet him.
So does her opinion change after meeting him? Can two people with different views of the world come together and find a new life together? You will need to read this fast paced novella to see how these two find their rocky path to a new life together.
I did receive a copy of this book in advance from the publisher in exchange for a fair and unbiased review.
September 29, 2024
Making a Texas Cowboy is the fist story in the Home at Last Texas series. Making a Texas Cowboy follows the fascinating tale of Jackson and Nicole. Jackson Thorpe looked like he had it all- the star of the hottest modern day western- he is quite wealthy and adored by many. However, when Jackson losses his wife in a horrible accident, he decides to relocated to Last Stand, Texas in hopes that the change will provide healing for his young son. Nicole Baylor is a sought after horse trainer and a cowgirl to her very core. Nicole happens to loathe the popular western series and its absurdly handsome star because she sees the show to be extremely fake- its even filmed in California. Now this is all the details that I'm going to reveal about Making a Texas Cowboy because I don't want to reveal more spoilers. However, Making a Texas Cowboy is most certainly a book that would be a recommendation for anyone to read. Making a Texas Cowboy is a charming and definite page-turner of a romance story. The characters are exceptionally developed and beautifully written throughout the story. I'm looking forward to reading more books by this amazing author.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 18, 2024
This is a heartwarming story from rural Texas. For a long time, it felt more like I was reading a touching story of a father and son starting in Last Stand, TX. It wasn't until 70% of the way through the book that the romance kicked in. This is definitely a slow burn western romance. I enjoyed the community of Last Stand though I felt that the large cast of secondary characters sometimes overwhelmed the protagonists' storyline. Nic's prejudice against Jackson for being a Hollywood actor felt a bit extreme and her negative assumptions about him went on a little too long, I think. I found it hard to believe that Nic could be in love with Jackson fully and simultaneously assume the worst about him returning to California toward the end. Both her and Jackson agreed to a life together a little too easily, considering the issues they had throughout the book. All in all, this was a feel-good story about second chances and overcoming hardship.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 2, 2024
Making a Texas Cowboy, the first book in the Home at Last Texas series by Justine Davis brings the reader back (or for some for the first time, but I'm certain won't be the last) to the unforgettable small Texas town of Last Stand. With favorite characters…Highwaters and Raffertys alike…from previous Last Srand stories (Police Chief Highwater is always mind’s eye candy) and introducing the Baylor family the connection to the town and all the familiar characters is like coming home.
Jackson’s story begins in heartbreak, with the love he feels for his son Jeremy, who is mired in grief, he takes them from L.A. to Last Stand where through the help of a little Pinto pony named Pie and horse trainer Nic Baylor, father and son experience the power the people of Last Stand have to heal broken hearts and souls.
The story and its characters will leave a smile in your heart and make you want more stories from Last Stand, Texas.
This ARC book was complimentary…provided by Tule Publishing…I'm voluntarily providing my honest review.
Jackson’s story begins in heartbreak, with the love he feels for his son Jeremy, who is mired in grief, he takes them from L.A. to Last Stand where through the help of a little Pinto pony named Pie and horse trainer Nic Baylor, father and son experience the power the people of Last Stand have to heal broken hearts and souls.
The story and its characters will leave a smile in your heart and make you want more stories from Last Stand, Texas.
This ARC book was complimentary…provided by Tule Publishing…I'm voluntarily providing my honest review.
September 24, 2024
This sweet, heart warming romance features small town America at it's finest. I loved the portrayal of Last Stand , Texas-it's history, the Texas pride and spirit of the people, and the landscape that becomes part of you. Hollywood sensation Jackson Thorpe , heartbroken and concerned for his son Jeremy leaves Hollywood to live with his sister in Last Stand. I absolutely adored Jackson, his love for his son jumps off the pages and it was wonderful to see Jeremy's progress. The romance between Nicole and Jackson is a slow burn as Jackson works to break down her prejudice against actors playing cowboys. Will Jackson be able to leave the glimmer of Hollywood (a big concern of Nicole's). Or will Last Stand and Nicole capture his heart? The story is rounded out with amazing supporting characters who left me looking forward to my next visit to Last Stand. I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
September 24, 2024
Making A Texas Cowboy by Justine Davis is the first in a new series Home at Last Texas. It is exciting to be back in Last Stand, Texas. Jackson Thorpe certainly fits the town that he has moved to be close to his sister. He is also a legend, a legend in Hollywood that is. Last Stand has its own legend of people who stood their ground. This is a place for Jackson to stand but also to heal from tragedy.
Ms. Davis always writes stories from the heart and Making A Texas Cowboy is no different. In spite of Jackson’s success in his career, he is hurting but determined to do the best he can for his son. You have to admire this character. Nicole Baylor was a little harder for me to like at first with her judgmental attitude. Over time she won me over. A case of starting over, recovery, community standing together and learning to love again. A wonderful story, just the kind this author always delivers.
Ms. Davis always writes stories from the heart and Making A Texas Cowboy is no different. In spite of Jackson’s success in his career, he is hurting but determined to do the best he can for his son. You have to admire this character. Nicole Baylor was a little harder for me to like at first with her judgmental attitude. Over time she won me over. A case of starting over, recovery, community standing together and learning to love again. A wonderful story, just the kind this author always delivers.
October 5, 2024
Jackson and Nicole. Hes lost his wife. Now widowed and a single parent he goes back home to his small town to be with his widowed sister. Shes a horse trainer and absolutely hates the show and its star. When he needs help with his son and seeks her help even though he knows she's doesn't like him or his show. After watching her and his son something starts to shift in his heart. This is a great town and if you read this author, you will meet some people who live there. This story has so much world and character building that contributes to their story making it a fascinating read. Her mom is a teacher. Her dad owns Angus. She trains horses. Hes a tv star. He has a son who is struggling. She doesn't like him but loves his son. He moves to a cottage on her ranch. Her mom tutors his son. Nic is helping his son with horse therapy. Just an all-around great read.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 24, 2024
I loved this heartfelt, sweet, beautiful story about Jackson and his son who move from LA to Last Stand, Texas after trying desperately to pick up the pieces after the death of movie star Jackson’s wife Leah. Jackson’s sister Tristan lives in Last Stand and so Jackson makes a huge decision to put pause on his acting career and walk away from his television show because he needs to give everything to his son Jeremy. Horse trainer Nicole Baylor is unimpressed by Jackson’s acting, refuses to watch his show and is determined to keep her distance. When Nic and Jackson spend more time together she realises that Jackson is totally different to who she thought he was. I loved this one, so many huge issues and complexities dealt with by the author so compassionately, I thoroughly enjoyed being in Last Stand, Texas and I can’t wait to read more of this series!
September 24, 2024
Making A Texas Cowboy ~ Home at Last Texas #1 by Justine Davis
A well-written story to start this new series from Justine.
Here we have Jackson Thorpe widow, Hollywood cowboy actor, and single dad to his young son Jeremy, who is finding it hard to cope with the loss of his mum.
Jackson comes to Last Stand, Texas to stay with his widowed sister, in the hope of saving his son.
Nicole Baylor, cowgirl at heart, and horse trainer, also loathes the TV show that Jackson is the main star.
Can Nicole help Jeremy and Jackson? will Nicole and Jackson get a HEA?
Grab your copy today, you will not be disappointed, and I highly recommend this book to all.
Reasons I enjoyed this book:
Easy-to-read, Great world building, Happily Ever After, Inspirational, Page-turner, Romantic, Realistic, and Wonderful characters
A well-written story to start this new series from Justine.
Here we have Jackson Thorpe widow, Hollywood cowboy actor, and single dad to his young son Jeremy, who is finding it hard to cope with the loss of his mum.
Jackson comes to Last Stand, Texas to stay with his widowed sister, in the hope of saving his son.
Nicole Baylor, cowgirl at heart, and horse trainer, also loathes the TV show that Jackson is the main star.
Can Nicole help Jeremy and Jackson? will Nicole and Jackson get a HEA?
Grab your copy today, you will not be disappointed, and I highly recommend this book to all.
Reasons I enjoyed this book:
Easy-to-read, Great world building, Happily Ever After, Inspirational, Page-turner, Romantic, Realistic, and Wonderful characters
October 3, 2024
I really struggled with getting into this book. While I liked the concept of the story loosing someone you loved and sacrificing you job for you child and family to make things better I found that Nicole was quite full of her self and was the very thing she accused Jackson of, she came off immature and whiny. I really Liked the Highwater family they had huge hearts and were willing to help a newcomer into the town they loved so much. Jackson was a good chapter but he had to grow on me. I get he was meant to be this lost person after the loss of his wife but he seemed like he was completely lost from all reality and I just felt like he wasn't helping his son he was putting him off on his sister more. Overall this book was just no for me. There is adult content in the book so may not be suitable for all.
September 4, 2024
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book, given to me by Tule Publishing via BookFunnel. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
A tale about family, fatherhood, navigating grief, healing and love, “Making a Texas Cowboy”, by Justine Davis, also features unforgettable characters, like an unexpected cowboy and his precious son.
I loved the father-son bond between Jackson and Jeremy and how Jackson tries everything to ease the boy’s pain.
The romance is slow and sweet as Nic finds there’s a difference between her misconceptions and reality and her opinions about Jackson shift.
Jackson is the most laid-back, easy going Hollywood star imaginable. The hero’s humbleness and selflessness are remarkable.
I liked Nic’s straightforwardness and honesty and how she shares her love for the land, the horses, with both males.
It's great to watch father and son heal and have joy again doing simple tasks, working, embracing the “Texas spirit”.
I also liked meeting again characters from previous stories and adored the paintings of Texas landscapes Justine Davies shows us.
A tale about family, fatherhood, navigating grief, healing and love, “Making a Texas Cowboy”, by Justine Davis, also features unforgettable characters, like an unexpected cowboy and his precious son.
I loved the father-son bond between Jackson and Jeremy and how Jackson tries everything to ease the boy’s pain.
The romance is slow and sweet as Nic finds there’s a difference between her misconceptions and reality and her opinions about Jackson shift.
Jackson is the most laid-back, easy going Hollywood star imaginable. The hero’s humbleness and selflessness are remarkable.
I liked Nic’s straightforwardness and honesty and how she shares her love for the land, the horses, with both males.
It's great to watch father and son heal and have joy again doing simple tasks, working, embracing the “Texas spirit”.
I also liked meeting again characters from previous stories and adored the paintings of Texas landscapes Justine Davies shows us.
September 22, 2024
Making a Texas Cowboy is book 1 in Home at Last Texas series by Justine Davis, a new to me author. 4.5 stars
For 2 yrs Jackson, Hollywood cowboy actor has been dealing with grief since the death of his wife and his son Jeremy’s mother. Jeremy is not dealing with the loss very well and Jackson takes him to Texas where his sister lives in hopes of helping his son. What he doesn’t expect is Nicole to bond with his son and through teaching Jeremy about horses he starts to slowly heal..
This is an emotional rollercoaster ride of pain, grief, letting go slowly, healing, family, acceptance, and a second chance at love.
I voluntarily read an advanced reader copy (ARC) of this book from Tule Publishing. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
For 2 yrs Jackson, Hollywood cowboy actor has been dealing with grief since the death of his wife and his son Jeremy’s mother. Jeremy is not dealing with the loss very well and Jackson takes him to Texas where his sister lives in hopes of helping his son. What he doesn’t expect is Nicole to bond with his son and through teaching Jeremy about horses he starts to slowly heal..
This is an emotional rollercoaster ride of pain, grief, letting go slowly, healing, family, acceptance, and a second chance at love.
I voluntarily read an advanced reader copy (ARC) of this book from Tule Publishing. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
September 22, 2024
Jackson is a movie star, his wife, and Jeremy's mother, died in a car accident two years ago. Jeremy is only seven now and isn't coping at all, so they go to Last Stand, in Texas, to see his sister, Tris, who lost her husband to cancer years before.
Jeremy starts to take more of an interest in life, especially as he's now learning to ride. Nic hasn't seen the tv series with Jackson but she knows that although it's supposed to be based in Texas it doesn't look anything like it. She has an antipathy towards Jackson.
Can she overcome her attitude? Will she see the man under the sadness?
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
A great first in the series from Justine
Jeremy starts to take more of an interest in life, especially as he's now learning to ride. Nic hasn't seen the tv series with Jackson but she knows that although it's supposed to be based in Texas it doesn't look anything like it. She has an antipathy towards Jackson.
Can she overcome her attitude? Will she see the man under the sadness?
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
A great first in the series from Justine
September 3, 2024
A sweet and inspiring story.
Still grieving the loss of his wife, Jackson Thorpe decided to leave Hollywood and his acting career and headed to Texas, where his sister lives, to help his son through his grief. They both fell in love with the little town of Last Stand and its people. But one person in particular, Nicole Baylor, caught Jackson’s eye. She was also good for Jeremy when she started teaching him to ride a horse. But Nic didn’t want anything to do with the actor, until she realized he was completely different than she thought he would be.
This is the first book in a new series and I am already loving it.
Still grieving the loss of his wife, Jackson Thorpe decided to leave Hollywood and his acting career and headed to Texas, where his sister lives, to help his son through his grief. They both fell in love with the little town of Last Stand and its people. But one person in particular, Nicole Baylor, caught Jackson’s eye. She was also good for Jeremy when she started teaching him to ride a horse. But Nic didn’t want anything to do with the actor, until she realized he was completely different than she thought he would be.
This is the first book in a new series and I am already loving it.
September 22, 2024
Well written very sweet second love story. Has love and sadness involved. Jackson and his son have lost a wife and mother while each are having a hard time with it. So they leave LA and head to his sister's, hoping to find a way to deal with everything. Once there , they meet Nicole, a horse trainer, who offers to help Jeremy. Nicole doesn't really like Jackson as he is an actor and a fake cowboy. As they spend time together the more the sparks fly and then the first kiss. Add in a severe storm, a missing child and a town that pulls together. Lots of action. Would recommend to others.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 5, 2024
This was Jackson and Nicole’s story. Jackson Thorpe looks like he has it all— But after the loss of his wife in a horrific accident, he walks away from Hollywood to be close to his widowed sister in Last Stand, Texas, hoping the change will help his young son emotionally heal. Sought after horse trainer, Nicole Baylor, is cowgirl to her core. She loathes the popular western series because the show is so fake—even filmed in California. Putting on a Stetson does not make a man a cowboy, and she’s had enough of men pretending. But when a worried Jackson asks for help with his son, Nic, though wary, agrees. This was an inspiring read. And am voluntarily leaving this review.
September 19, 2024
I just love stories like this that spring from a deep need to help someone. In this story, it is a lonely, worried widower whose young son has retreated into himself with grief over losing his mom. The man, Jackson, leaves the glitter of Los Angeles and a hit western to go to his sister’s
home in Texas. He meets a special horse trainer who brings joy back into both Jackson’s and his son’s eyes. A simply captivating story all through.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
home in Texas. He meets a special horse trainer who brings joy back into both Jackson’s and his son’s eyes. A simply captivating story all through.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
September 23, 2024
Jackson was worried he was going to lose his grieving son who asked if they could visit a real ranch when he walked away from his big hit TV show. Jeremy finds joy in his experiences and the people who care about him in that small town and they aren’t trying to capitalize on him, his father, and their grief over losing Jeremy’s mother like hollywood did. I loved that town where there was so much history and many caring people. Nic had preconceived notions about Jackson at first but he quickly dispels them and they draw closer if only he can open his heart again.
October 7, 2024
This is first book I read from the author and I enjoyed reading very much.
Very interesting,entertaining and enjoyable. Is very well written,pulls you right into story.
It’s second chance in life, small town ,western romance.
The storyline touch the subject on grief, single millionaire father who needs to put his son needs first.
She is horse trainer and Cowgirl through and through and falling in love with billionaire is not on her mind. Is hot romance is something that could happen?.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Very interesting,entertaining and enjoyable. Is very well written,pulls you right into story.
It’s second chance in life, small town ,western romance.
The storyline touch the subject on grief, single millionaire father who needs to put his son needs first.
She is horse trainer and Cowgirl through and through and falling in love with billionaire is not on her mind. Is hot romance is something that could happen?.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 25, 2024
This one was such a heartwarming and emotional read. I fell in love with Jackson and his son Jeremy. Both of them are trying to deal with the loss of their wife/mom. Jackson feels like his son is falling further and further away from him. He decides to take a leave from his job and go to Texas to visit his sister. There he meets Nicole. I loved their story. I am really looking forward to reading more by this author. I voluntarily reviewed this book in exchange for an honest review.
October 1, 2024
It makes me very happy that Justine Davis has a new series! Making a Texas Cowboy is the first in the Home At Last Texas series. Jackson Thorpe is a great hero. A man who walks away from fame and riches in order to save his son. And his heroine, Nicole Baylor, is a perfect match for him, even though neither of them believe that at first. Jackson and Nic's love story is beautiful and Jackson's love for his son makes it even more poignant. A beautiful story by one of my favorite authors.
August 25, 2024
Get ready to experience the thrilling romance between two characters that have had heart break and loss but come together and mend their broken hearts. This is the first book I have read by this author and all I can say is HOLY SMOKES can she write some AMAZING romance books. I am very excited to read the next book in this series and if it's anything like this book my heart might combust.
September 29, 2024
This is an entertaining book that grabs your attention from the beginning and hold it to the end. The storyline is interesting and intriguing as the elements unfold. The characters are well developed and have depth to their personalities. The boy has another interesting to the dynamics. I enjoyed this book.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 2, 2024
Loosing his wife is to death is one thing but if he doesn't do something, (Jeremy his 7 yr old) he is going to loose him as well. Going to Last Stand where his sister lives might just be his saving grace. I love how the history of the town is incorporated into the story.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 1, 2025
This book took a long time to get to the romance part. While I liked the growth of the characters, plot moved a little slower than I cared for. I had trouble liking Nicole, as she was very judgemental. Overall, a decent story. *I recevied an ARC of this book and this is my voluntary and honest review.
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