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Burnt Boot, Texas #4
A Cowboy Christmas Miracle
It will take a miracle bigger than the state of Texas for these two feuding families to survive the holidays!
Opposites might attract...
The Brennans and the Gallaghers put aside their one-hundred-year feud every Tuesday for their weekly poker game. This week, the stakes are sky-high. Goaded to recklessness, Declan Brennan bets one thousand dollars that he can woo the next woman to walk into the saloon. A minute later, fiery-haired Betsy Gallagher pushes through the doors. If Declan can tame this wild Gallagher, he'll have earned every penny.
If they don't kill each other first...
Betsy can outshoot anybody in Burnt Boot and loves ranching more than anything-until she falls for Declan. He's fallen for her too. But when she discovers what sparked their courtship, Declan will need a Christmas miracle to save his hide-and his heart.
Praise for The Trouble with Texas Cowboys:
"Humorous, heartwarming, and full of sass and spunk." -RT Book Reviews, 4 stars
"A delightful romance amid hilarious feuding families...What a treat to be back in Burnt Boot!" -Fresh Fiction
"Captivating...filled with love and laughter!" -The Romance Reviews
350 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 6, 2016
408 people are currently reading
1025 people want to read
About the author
Carolyn Brown
181 books4,113 followersHi! I'm twenty five years old and movie star gorgeous. The camera added thirty plus years and a few wrinkles. Can't trust those cameras or mirrors either. Along with bathroom scales they are notorious liars! Honestly, I am the mother of three fantastic grown children who've made me laugh and given me more story ideas than I could ever write. My husband, Charles, is my strongest supporter and my best friend. He's even willing to eat fast food and help with the laundry while I finish one more chapter! Life is good and I am blessed!
Reading has been a passion since I was five years old and figured out those were words on book pages. As soon as my chubby little fingers found they could put words on a Big Chief tablet with a fat pencil, I was on my way. Writing joined reading in my list of passions. I will read anything from the back of the Cheerio's box to Faulkner and love every bit of it. In addition to reading I enjoy cooking, my family and the ocean. I love the Florida beaches. Listening to the ocean waves puts my writing brain into high gear.
I love writing romance because it's about emotions and relationships. Human nature hasn't changed a bit since Eve coveted the fruit in the Garden of Eden. Settings change. Plots change. Names change. Times change. But love is love and men and women have been falling in and out of it forever. Romance is about emotions: love, hate, anger, laughter... all of it. If I can make you laugh until your sides ache or grab a tissue then I've touched your emotions and accomplished what every writer sets out to do.
I got serious about writing when my third child was born and had her days and nights mixed up. I had to stay up all night anyway and it was very quiet so I invested in a spiral back notebook and sharpened a few pencils. The story that emerged has never sold but it's brought in enough rejection slips to put the Redwood Forest on the endangered list. In 1997 Kensington bought two books for their Precious Gems line. Two years and six books later the line died with only four of those books seeing publication. But by then Avalon had bought a book and another, and another. Ten years later the list has grown to thirty nine. Last year Sourcebooks bought the Lucky Series which is in the bookstores now. They've also bought The Honky Tonk Series which will debut with I LOVE THIS BAR in June and will be followed by HELL, YEAH, MY GIVE A DAMN'S BUSTED, and HONKY TONK CHRISTMAS.
Folks ask me where I get my ideas. Three kids, fifteen grandchildren, two great grandchildren. Note: I was a very young grandmother! Life is a zoo around here when they all come home. In one Sunday afternoon there's enough ideas to keep me writing for years and years. Seriously, ideas pop up at the craziest times. When one sinks its roots into my mind, I have no choice but to write the story. And while I'm writing the characters peek over my shoulder and make sure I'm telling it right and not exaggerating too much. Pesky little devils, they are!
I have a wonderful agent, Erin Niumata, who continues to work magic and sell my work. I'm very lucky to have her and my editors who continue to believe in me.
Happy reading!
Reading has been a passion since I was five years old and figured out those were words on book pages. As soon as my chubby little fingers found they could put words on a Big Chief tablet with a fat pencil, I was on my way. Writing joined reading in my list of passions. I will read anything from the back of the Cheerio's box to Faulkner and love every bit of it. In addition to reading I enjoy cooking, my family and the ocean. I love the Florida beaches. Listening to the ocean waves puts my writing brain into high gear.
I love writing romance because it's about emotions and relationships. Human nature hasn't changed a bit since Eve coveted the fruit in the Garden of Eden. Settings change. Plots change. Names change. Times change. But love is love and men and women have been falling in and out of it forever. Romance is about emotions: love, hate, anger, laughter... all of it. If I can make you laugh until your sides ache or grab a tissue then I've touched your emotions and accomplished what every writer sets out to do.
I got serious about writing when my third child was born and had her days and nights mixed up. I had to stay up all night anyway and it was very quiet so I invested in a spiral back notebook and sharpened a few pencils. The story that emerged has never sold but it's brought in enough rejection slips to put the Redwood Forest on the endangered list. In 1997 Kensington bought two books for their Precious Gems line. Two years and six books later the line died with only four of those books seeing publication. But by then Avalon had bought a book and another, and another. Ten years later the list has grown to thirty nine. Last year Sourcebooks bought the Lucky Series which is in the bookstores now. They've also bought The Honky Tonk Series which will debut with I LOVE THIS BAR in June and will be followed by HELL, YEAH, MY GIVE A DAMN'S BUSTED, and HONKY TONK CHRISTMAS.
Folks ask me where I get my ideas. Three kids, fifteen grandchildren, two great grandchildren. Note: I was a very young grandmother! Life is a zoo around here when they all come home. In one Sunday afternoon there's enough ideas to keep me writing for years and years. Seriously, ideas pop up at the craziest times. When one sinks its roots into my mind, I have no choice but to write the story. And while I'm writing the characters peek over my shoulder and make sure I'm telling it right and not exaggerating too much. Pesky little devils, they are!
I have a wonderful agent, Erin Niumata, who continues to work magic and sell my work. I'm very lucky to have her and my editors who continue to believe in me.
Happy reading!
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September 1, 2016
Burnt Book, Texas has been the home of the ranching Brennan’s and Gallagher’s for over a century and the feuding between families has gone on just as long. Can a joint covert effort by Declan Brennan and Betsy Gallagher to bring a Christmas program to their local church turn things around, and finally bring this modern day Romeo and Juliet together? Can it bring an end to the feuding? Or will the bet Declan made with Tanner Gallagher to win Betsy’s heart or lose a thousand dollars come out, and stand in the way of their love?
This was definitely a case of unrequited love on Declan’s part and so the bet worked in his favor and gave him an excuse to finally pursue the previously forbidden Betsy. And Betsy couldn’t help but notice that sexy cowboy Declan for years! Working together also gave them time to feed their long-time, burning attraction. Sparks fly and fires ignite every time they get close! Their romance as inevitable as Romeo and Juliet, although with a much happier ending! I love that none of the bumps they encountered together were insurmountable or made you think there was no way these two would make it. Carolyn Brown writes mature romances where the couples can fight and still know they’ll eventually work things out one way or another.
Both Declan and Betsy were sick to death of the pointless fighting between their families, spurred on mostly by their grandmothers, Mavis and Naomi. These grandmothers should’ve been old enough to know better in my opinion! It was the younger generation that wanted to let go of the past, and move on while these ladies were always looking for ways to one-up each other in revenge. At one point in the series Mavis and Naomi were in a knock down, hair-pulling, dirty fight and while it was funny reading it, I thought: Shame on them! I was thrilled that Besty and Declan working together gave hope that all this pettiness would finally come to an end!
I can’t write about Ms. Brown’s stories without mentioning her humor. Her old fashioned one-liners always make me giggle! I’m sad to say A Cowboy Christmas Miracle is the last book in the Burnt Boot, Texas series, but I love the way things ended! Carolyn Brown never ceases to make me laugh, smile and light my fires with her flirty cowboy romances!
A copy was kindly provided by Sourcebooks Casblanca in exchange for an honest review.
This review is also posted at The Readers Den.
This was definitely a case of unrequited love on Declan’s part and so the bet worked in his favor and gave him an excuse to finally pursue the previously forbidden Betsy. And Betsy couldn’t help but notice that sexy cowboy Declan for years! Working together also gave them time to feed their long-time, burning attraction. Sparks fly and fires ignite every time they get close! Their romance as inevitable as Romeo and Juliet, although with a much happier ending! I love that none of the bumps they encountered together were insurmountable or made you think there was no way these two would make it. Carolyn Brown writes mature romances where the couples can fight and still know they’ll eventually work things out one way or another.
Both Declan and Betsy were sick to death of the pointless fighting between their families, spurred on mostly by their grandmothers, Mavis and Naomi. These grandmothers should’ve been old enough to know better in my opinion! It was the younger generation that wanted to let go of the past, and move on while these ladies were always looking for ways to one-up each other in revenge. At one point in the series Mavis and Naomi were in a knock down, hair-pulling, dirty fight and while it was funny reading it, I thought: Shame on them! I was thrilled that Besty and Declan working together gave hope that all this pettiness would finally come to an end!
I can’t write about Ms. Brown’s stories without mentioning her humor. Her old fashioned one-liners always make me giggle! I’m sad to say A Cowboy Christmas Miracle is the last book in the Burnt Boot, Texas series, but I love the way things ended! Carolyn Brown never ceases to make me laugh, smile and light my fires with her flirty cowboy romances!
A copy was kindly provided by Sourcebooks Casblanca in exchange for an honest review.
This review is also posted at The Readers Den.
August 25, 2016
The Cowboy Christmas Miracle by Carolyn Brown is a 2016 Sourcebooks Casablanca publication. I was provided a copy of this book by the publisher and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
Yes, it’s that time of year when reviewers are sampling the upcoming holiday themed books, recommending the ones that make us laugh, or warm our hearts and get us in the mood for the festive and magical season.
This is my first holiday themed book this year, and it’s off to a pretty good start!
There is nothing like a Texas themed holiday romp with sexy cowboys, humor, and of course a long running family feud….
The feud between the Brennan’s and Gallagher’s has been going strong for over a hundred years, but when a poker match between Delcan Brennan and Tanner Gallagher got a little out of hand, a dangerous bet takes place. Unfortunately, Tanner’s favorite cousin, Betsy, becomes the prize, when her arch enemy Delcan Brennan must win her heart in a month’s time or forfeit a thousand dollars.
During the holiday season, love’s magic is a little more potent than usual, but it still has to work extra hard to bring together two people who would never have given each other a chance under normal circumstances.
This book is laugh out loud funny, but there is an underlying bittersweet tinge to it because of the forbidden and unrequited love the couple felt they would have to live with forever because of their family names. But, when they begin spending time together, working on the church’s holiday program, they keep it a secret from everyone as they fall hopelessly in love. But, what happens when their families find out?
Since I have not read the previous installments in the series, I am not familiar with the dynamic or the secondary characters, so the church may have played a role in the series all along, but for me, I felt a little uncomfortable mixing church, praying, and the Christian holiday in with drinking, bars, sexy time, and cursing. It was a strange combination, but the pastor was pretty cool.
Other than that, this was a really cute story and has all the elements a good holiday romance should, infusing a nice amount of humor in with a spicy romance and a heartwarming happy ever after. So, when you begin picking romances for the fast approaching holiday season, be sure to add this one to your list!
3.5 stars
Yes, it’s that time of year when reviewers are sampling the upcoming holiday themed books, recommending the ones that make us laugh, or warm our hearts and get us in the mood for the festive and magical season.
This is my first holiday themed book this year, and it’s off to a pretty good start!
There is nothing like a Texas themed holiday romp with sexy cowboys, humor, and of course a long running family feud….
The feud between the Brennan’s and Gallagher’s has been going strong for over a hundred years, but when a poker match between Delcan Brennan and Tanner Gallagher got a little out of hand, a dangerous bet takes place. Unfortunately, Tanner’s favorite cousin, Betsy, becomes the prize, when her arch enemy Delcan Brennan must win her heart in a month’s time or forfeit a thousand dollars.
During the holiday season, love’s magic is a little more potent than usual, but it still has to work extra hard to bring together two people who would never have given each other a chance under normal circumstances.
This book is laugh out loud funny, but there is an underlying bittersweet tinge to it because of the forbidden and unrequited love the couple felt they would have to live with forever because of their family names. But, when they begin spending time together, working on the church’s holiday program, they keep it a secret from everyone as they fall hopelessly in love. But, what happens when their families find out?
Since I have not read the previous installments in the series, I am not familiar with the dynamic or the secondary characters, so the church may have played a role in the series all along, but for me, I felt a little uncomfortable mixing church, praying, and the Christian holiday in with drinking, bars, sexy time, and cursing. It was a strange combination, but the pastor was pretty cool.
Other than that, this was a really cute story and has all the elements a good holiday romance should, infusing a nice amount of humor in with a spicy romance and a heartwarming happy ever after. So, when you begin picking romances for the fast approaching holiday season, be sure to add this one to your list!
3.5 stars
September 6, 2016
After reading a chapter and a half I came very close to putting this book down for good. I just could not get into the story for some reason. It was very frustrating because the premise sounded so good. That is why I stuck it out a bit longer and I am very happy I did.
This is a Texas version of Romeo and Juliet. Sigh. Once I got to know Declan Brennan and Betsy Gallagher I could see that they were made for each other. Too bad that they were born into two rivaling families. Their grandmas seemed to cause a lot of unnecessary problems and while they both went to church neither one of them showed any kind of Christian love especially at Christmas time.
Now one reason why I may not have enjoyed A Cowboy Christmas Miracle in the beginning is because this is the fourth and last book in the Burnt Boot series and I have not read any of them up to now. I thought I had but after going back and looking I found I had not. Maybe this is one of those series that needs to be read in order for the ultimate enjoyment? I am not sure but I will be starting the series from the beginning as soon as I find the time!
This is a Texas version of Romeo and Juliet. Sigh. Once I got to know Declan Brennan and Betsy Gallagher I could see that they were made for each other. Too bad that they were born into two rivaling families. Their grandmas seemed to cause a lot of unnecessary problems and while they both went to church neither one of them showed any kind of Christian love especially at Christmas time.
Now one reason why I may not have enjoyed A Cowboy Christmas Miracle in the beginning is because this is the fourth and last book in the Burnt Boot series and I have not read any of them up to now. I thought I had but after going back and looking I found I had not. Maybe this is one of those series that needs to be read in order for the ultimate enjoyment? I am not sure but I will be starting the series from the beginning as soon as I find the time!
September 14, 2016
Reviewed for herding cats & burning soup.
Amazon: http://amzn.to/2cF9MHE
They melted the baby Jesus and dun stole Santa! Lordy but Burnt Boot, Texas is one lively town full of quirky down right crazy people. A Cowboy Christmas Miracle was a hoot as the #LoveWar threatens to take both sides of the feuding town down for good.
The quick of it is that Declan and Betsy, well, they've each secretly had a thing for each other but they're on opposite sides of a 100 year old family feud so even lookin' nicely in each others direction is completely off the table. Starting up a romance? Not. Likely. Until a bunch of fool boys playing poker come up with a bet that Declan can't seduce Betsy. It's just the chance he's been looking for to get close to her so he's all in. Even if he knows he'll be in for a smack down once she finds out.
Ahhhh these two! Declan and Betsy were wonderful and perfectly matched. They're both, well, a bit slutty but totally embrace it and are like pffft I'll do what I want, they're both sick of the feud, they're both taking a stand and trying to do something good for the town. They've got sass and fire and there's just a fun element that jumps between them as they start getting pushed together on different things. Sneaking around and trying to figure out how to get over their last names and everything that means because of the feud.
Now the bet. I'm not a huge fan of the whole betting thing but it worked here for me since you know right from the start that Declan's totally smitten for Betsy and struggling with keeping the secret.
The town was crazy as ever and the old women steering the feud totally batshit crazy. Honest to goodness I would totally bundle those nutters up and drop them in the middle of the wilderness somewhere. Those old grandmom's needed someone to take them both down. Whew boy! I loved that one of the missions Betsy and Declan take on is making sure the church has it's Christmas play even though the grandmoms are refusing to let anyone donate funds to it. Pulling together items on the sly from everyone in town and helping to end the feud.
There were a couple spots with some iffy dialogue or elements that just didn't quite sit right with me but they weren't enough to really impact the story negatively.
All in all, Brown did a fabulous job with A Cowboy Christmas Miracle. It's fun and full of the Christmas spirit. The perfect way to end the series.
September 2, 2016
Christmas is coming and in Burnt Boot, Texas, it means a big celebration and Nativity re-enactment at the church. But this year will be different because the two feuding families have pretty much destroyed all of the props, not to mention proving their “Christian thinking” hypocrisy. Guess in Texas, family pride and feuds are more important, at least if one watches the Brennans and Gallaghers. Just about the only time the feud is laid to rest is on Tuesdays at the local bar when the “boys” get together for a good old fashioned poker game.
One foolish bet made has the potential to further enflame the feud as the heir apparent to the Gallagher ranch becomes the pawn when being in the wrong place at the right time puts Betsy Gallagher in the crosshairs of Declan Brennan’s many charms. All he has to do is make Betsy fall in love with him without losing his life in the process. All fun and games, right? Boys will be boys, etc., except these boys are in their thirties and Declan has a secret, he has been in love with the hellcat, Betsy since childhood.
Maybe the way to a woman’s heart is through her love of Christmas, because Declan and Betsy secretly plan to replace all of the Holiday props in their own friendly competition. Not sure either of them expected the impact they would have on the town or their hearts.
Carolyn Brown’s A Cowboy’s Christmas Miracle is a light and fluffy holiday read filled with humor, sometimes hokey dialogue and two souls who can become either a modern day Romeo and Juliet or bring a town divided back together. A quick read, full of little secrets, the true spirit of Christmas, love and some pretty cranky old matriarchs.
I received an ARC edition from Sourcebooks Casablanca in exchange for my honest review.
Series: Burnt Boot - Book 4
Publisher: Sourcebooks Casablanca (September 6, 2016)
Publication Date: September 6, 2016
Genre: Holiday Romance
Print Length: 352 pages
Available from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
For Reviews & More: http://tometender.blogspot.com
One foolish bet made has the potential to further enflame the feud as the heir apparent to the Gallagher ranch becomes the pawn when being in the wrong place at the right time puts Betsy Gallagher in the crosshairs of Declan Brennan’s many charms. All he has to do is make Betsy fall in love with him without losing his life in the process. All fun and games, right? Boys will be boys, etc., except these boys are in their thirties and Declan has a secret, he has been in love with the hellcat, Betsy since childhood.
Maybe the way to a woman’s heart is through her love of Christmas, because Declan and Betsy secretly plan to replace all of the Holiday props in their own friendly competition. Not sure either of them expected the impact they would have on the town or their hearts.
Carolyn Brown’s A Cowboy’s Christmas Miracle is a light and fluffy holiday read filled with humor, sometimes hokey dialogue and two souls who can become either a modern day Romeo and Juliet or bring a town divided back together. A quick read, full of little secrets, the true spirit of Christmas, love and some pretty cranky old matriarchs.
I received an ARC edition from Sourcebooks Casablanca in exchange for my honest review.
Series: Burnt Boot - Book 4
Publisher: Sourcebooks Casablanca (September 6, 2016)
Publication Date: September 6, 2016
Genre: Holiday Romance
Print Length: 352 pages
Available from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
For Reviews & More: http://tometender.blogspot.com
September 6, 2016
This has been a riot of a fun series from start to finish with sassy cowgirls, flirty cowboys, and a family feud that was over the top hijinks. It was fitting that the last book was told against a holiday that calls for 'peace on earth; goodwill toward men' because maybe- just maybe the Gallaghers and the Brennans can find a way to call an end to their feud. Betsy Gallagher and Declan Brennan sure hope so because they do not want to be the Burnt Boot version of the doomed Juliet and Romeo.
As the fourth and final book in the series, this is not the best one to read out of order. Both characters and the situation were introduced earlier in the series.
The story opens with Declan participating in the weekly poker game with his cousin and two of the enemy Gallaghers. Things get heated as they generally do between the two rival families and Declan ends up losing a bet. He has to make the first woman through the doors of the bar fall for him in thirty days or lose. And in struts his secret childhood crush, Betsy Gallagher. Declan isn't the only man at the table to groan in frustration. Her own cousins know what will happen if Betsy finds out she was the object of their bet, but pride kicks in and the bet goes forward. Declan is more frustrated than ever over the stupid feud that won't allow him to straight up ask out Betsy or have a chance of a future with her, but now, he doesn't know what to make of this situation caused by the bet.
Betsy is frustrated. Because of the stupid feud, her grandmother and the Brennan's matriarch have both refused the usually funds to have the church Christmas programs and Nativity Play. Betsy's cousin is even more sad because it was to be her baby that would be the baby Jesus. She begs Betsy to think of a way for the Christmas activities to go on. Betsy has to find a way to do an end around her grandmother. She leaves the bar to head out to her favorite thinking spot only to encounter her childhood secret crush, Declan Brennan parked under her tree by the river.
The meeting at the river results in the two pairing up to help save Christmas. And all this sneaking around leads to some sizzle between the pair that take advantage of an ice storm, closed roads, a hotel room, and all that lovely snow to ignore the feud and find time to be together. As Christmas draws near, the pair of them have to decide what is most important to them and will they go for a chance at happiness or heed family duty.
These are light and fun stories and I enjoy the easy of reading them. I was not surprised to finally have a romance pair from both the feuding families and see that this might indeed be the shake up that it would take to bring it all to a head. The two were peas in a pod and I loved seeing them figure it out and work together along with the growing feelings that they want more.
The Christmas backdrop was sweet and I loved all the small town festivities. Christmas was a strong theme that blended well with the romance.
All in all, this was heartwarming and fun with a pinch of Christmas spice. I'll miss the series and this whole group of small town characters. Those who enjoy light cowboy romance should definitely give these a try.
My thanks to Sourcebooks Casablanca for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
As the fourth and final book in the series, this is not the best one to read out of order. Both characters and the situation were introduced earlier in the series.
The story opens with Declan participating in the weekly poker game with his cousin and two of the enemy Gallaghers. Things get heated as they generally do between the two rival families and Declan ends up losing a bet. He has to make the first woman through the doors of the bar fall for him in thirty days or lose. And in struts his secret childhood crush, Betsy Gallagher. Declan isn't the only man at the table to groan in frustration. Her own cousins know what will happen if Betsy finds out she was the object of their bet, but pride kicks in and the bet goes forward. Declan is more frustrated than ever over the stupid feud that won't allow him to straight up ask out Betsy or have a chance of a future with her, but now, he doesn't know what to make of this situation caused by the bet.
Betsy is frustrated. Because of the stupid feud, her grandmother and the Brennan's matriarch have both refused the usually funds to have the church Christmas programs and Nativity Play. Betsy's cousin is even more sad because it was to be her baby that would be the baby Jesus. She begs Betsy to think of a way for the Christmas activities to go on. Betsy has to find a way to do an end around her grandmother. She leaves the bar to head out to her favorite thinking spot only to encounter her childhood secret crush, Declan Brennan parked under her tree by the river.
The meeting at the river results in the two pairing up to help save Christmas. And all this sneaking around leads to some sizzle between the pair that take advantage of an ice storm, closed roads, a hotel room, and all that lovely snow to ignore the feud and find time to be together. As Christmas draws near, the pair of them have to decide what is most important to them and will they go for a chance at happiness or heed family duty.
These are light and fun stories and I enjoy the easy of reading them. I was not surprised to finally have a romance pair from both the feuding families and see that this might indeed be the shake up that it would take to bring it all to a head. The two were peas in a pod and I loved seeing them figure it out and work together along with the growing feelings that they want more.
The Christmas backdrop was sweet and I loved all the small town festivities. Christmas was a strong theme that blended well with the romance.
All in all, this was heartwarming and fun with a pinch of Christmas spice. I'll miss the series and this whole group of small town characters. Those who enjoy light cowboy romance should definitely give these a try.
My thanks to Sourcebooks Casablanca for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
October 2, 2016
I received a free copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
The final book in the Burnt Boot, Texas series is humorous with a long-standing feud between two families. You'll have to read what happens when a sexy cowboy and a spirited redhead conspire to bring together a Christmas program for the town despite all odds. This is such a fun read and perfect for the holiday season that I'm sure readers will want to grab some hot chocolate and sit in their favorite chair while reading this one. I love Ms. Brown's writing style and wonderful characters, and even though this is the last book in this series, I'm sure we can expect more great stories. I plan on going back and reading the others but I think Declan and Betsy will always be my favorite couple.
The final book in the Burnt Boot, Texas series is humorous with a long-standing feud between two families. You'll have to read what happens when a sexy cowboy and a spirited redhead conspire to bring together a Christmas program for the town despite all odds. This is such a fun read and perfect for the holiday season that I'm sure readers will want to grab some hot chocolate and sit in their favorite chair while reading this one. I love Ms. Brown's writing style and wonderful characters, and even though this is the last book in this series, I'm sure we can expect more great stories. I plan on going back and reading the others but I think Declan and Betsy will always be my favorite couple.
September 22, 2016
The crazy fun and mighty satisfying conclusion of the rambunctious Burnt Boot series!
"I hear it was the fact that the Brennans had a hellfireanddamnation preacher runnin' their family back in Prohibition days and you Gallaghers were runnin' moonshine to get by and got caught. Your family blamed the Brennans for rattin' you out, and that started a feud," Rosalie said.
A COWBOY CHRISTMAS MIRACLE by Carolyn Brown is the fourth and final witty installment in her rambunctious Burnt Boot series. This is the crazy fun and mighty satisfying conclusion of the series. The bittersweet hoopla takes place in Burnt Boot, Texas where the feuding Brennans and the Gallaghers make the old Hatfield/McCoys antics seem tame in comparison. I am sad to see the series end, but Carolyn sure knows how to kick up the strife and hanky-panky before tying that pretty closing bow.
This is the story of star-crossed lovers, Declan Brennan and Betsy Gallagher. They can be thought of as akin to a contemporary Romeo and Juliet but with a zany western twist. Declan and Betsy had both been attracted to each other as young children. As they matured and were given responsibilities in each of their clans, any relationship between them became nigh to impossible.
As the story opens, while playing poker in Rosalie's bar, Declan makes a bet that he can't seduce the next woman to walk through the door. It just so happens that woman is fiery, headstrong, redheaded cowgirl Betsy Gallagher – finally giving Declan an excuse to pursue his childhood crush.
Betsy is in a tight spot. She's promised, against her own granny's edict, that she will make the annual Christmas play happen. She needs a cohort in crime, so she solicits Declan's help to help her make it happen. It works out perfect for Declan as it gives him an excuse to see Betsy without her being suspicious. Can a secret joint effort by Declan and Betsy spread Christmas magic to the families of Burnt Boot? So many things can go wrong. What will happen when Betsy finds out about the bet? And, most importantly, what will happen when their respective families find out the two have fallen in love?
Both Declan and Betsy are sick to death of the ongoing fighting between their families. The younger generation wants to let go of the past, but the two grandmothers, Mavis and Naomi, are always looking for ways to one-up the other. I found it easy to connect with Declan and Betsy. Their chemistry was off-the-charts. Declan was the sweetest suitor ever. When he shared the mementos he’d kept over the years with Betsy, I wanted to happy-cry. They may have been small, seemingly inconsequential physical things, but they demonstrated, without a doubt, the depth of his long-standing affection for her.
Following please find a few of my favorite quotes from this read:
Reality was that no matter how well he filled out those creased jeans, he truly was forbidden fruit.
---
One kiss came close to sending the movie theater up in blazes. Sex would burn down the state.
---
"Please go home with me and stay forever. I will hide you in my closet and take you out at night, and I promise to be gentle," he said between kisses.
A COWBOY CHRISTMAS MIRACLE also includes a bonus preview of Carolyn's next book, LUCK OF THE DRAW, coming soon from Sourcebooks Casablanca. I'm looking forward to meeting new madcap friends therein!
This holiday romp hit all the right spots: sexy cowboys, laugh-out-loud humor, family tribulations and a long-simmering forbidden attraction culminating in a delightful holiday romance. This has been a fun series from the first book through to the last. If you enjoy rollicking holiday-themed romances populated with certifiably crazy quirky characters, set your sights on the liveliness of A COWBOY CHRISTMAS MIRACLE, and read how Declan and Betsy save Christmas!
My full review is posted at Reading Between The Wines Book Club. Please check it out there: http://www.readingbetweenthewinesbook...
"I hear it was the fact that the Brennans had a hellfireanddamnation preacher runnin' their family back in Prohibition days and you Gallaghers were runnin' moonshine to get by and got caught. Your family blamed the Brennans for rattin' you out, and that started a feud," Rosalie said.
A COWBOY CHRISTMAS MIRACLE by Carolyn Brown is the fourth and final witty installment in her rambunctious Burnt Boot series. This is the crazy fun and mighty satisfying conclusion of the series. The bittersweet hoopla takes place in Burnt Boot, Texas where the feuding Brennans and the Gallaghers make the old Hatfield/McCoys antics seem tame in comparison. I am sad to see the series end, but Carolyn sure knows how to kick up the strife and hanky-panky before tying that pretty closing bow.
This is the story of star-crossed lovers, Declan Brennan and Betsy Gallagher. They can be thought of as akin to a contemporary Romeo and Juliet but with a zany western twist. Declan and Betsy had both been attracted to each other as young children. As they matured and were given responsibilities in each of their clans, any relationship between them became nigh to impossible.
As the story opens, while playing poker in Rosalie's bar, Declan makes a bet that he can't seduce the next woman to walk through the door. It just so happens that woman is fiery, headstrong, redheaded cowgirl Betsy Gallagher – finally giving Declan an excuse to pursue his childhood crush.
Betsy is in a tight spot. She's promised, against her own granny's edict, that she will make the annual Christmas play happen. She needs a cohort in crime, so she solicits Declan's help to help her make it happen. It works out perfect for Declan as it gives him an excuse to see Betsy without her being suspicious. Can a secret joint effort by Declan and Betsy spread Christmas magic to the families of Burnt Boot? So many things can go wrong. What will happen when Betsy finds out about the bet? And, most importantly, what will happen when their respective families find out the two have fallen in love?
Both Declan and Betsy are sick to death of the ongoing fighting between their families. The younger generation wants to let go of the past, but the two grandmothers, Mavis and Naomi, are always looking for ways to one-up the other. I found it easy to connect with Declan and Betsy. Their chemistry was off-the-charts. Declan was the sweetest suitor ever. When he shared the mementos he’d kept over the years with Betsy, I wanted to happy-cry. They may have been small, seemingly inconsequential physical things, but they demonstrated, without a doubt, the depth of his long-standing affection for her.
Following please find a few of my favorite quotes from this read:
Reality was that no matter how well he filled out those creased jeans, he truly was forbidden fruit.
---
One kiss came close to sending the movie theater up in blazes. Sex would burn down the state.
---
"Please go home with me and stay forever. I will hide you in my closet and take you out at night, and I promise to be gentle," he said between kisses.
A COWBOY CHRISTMAS MIRACLE also includes a bonus preview of Carolyn's next book, LUCK OF THE DRAW, coming soon from Sourcebooks Casablanca. I'm looking forward to meeting new madcap friends therein!
This holiday romp hit all the right spots: sexy cowboys, laugh-out-loud humor, family tribulations and a long-simmering forbidden attraction culminating in a delightful holiday romance. This has been a fun series from the first book through to the last. If you enjoy rollicking holiday-themed romances populated with certifiably crazy quirky characters, set your sights on the liveliness of A COWBOY CHRISTMAS MIRACLE, and read how Declan and Betsy save Christmas!
My full review is posted at Reading Between The Wines Book Club. Please check it out there: http://www.readingbetweenthewinesbook...
June 22, 2016
A Cowboy Christmas Miracle is the last installment to Brown's Burnt Boot series and I loved every minute of this story. Brown takes readers on a modern Romeo and Juliet story where two lovers are torn between two feuding families. This feud has been going on for a hundred years and doesn't look like end is anywhere in sight but when a Christmas Miracle brings Declan and Betsy together they will have to fight for their love and hope this outstanding feud will finally end.
Hands down this was my favorite story in this series. It held humor, heartache and an everlasting love. I loved how Declan and Betsy have liked each other since they were kids in Sunday school but didn't even think or hope they could be together. Both these characters have a love 'em and leave 'em reputation but come to find out it's not who they really are.
The story starts off with them longing for one another but knowing that's a impossible dream on both parts until Betsy is asked to help save Christmas in Burnt Boot. With Declan's help these two become unstoppable and little by little learn more about one another. After one kiss shakes them to the core and the more time they spend together their feelings become unstoppable. I just couldn't get enough of these two! One minute they were trading barbs and the next kissing. The chemistry was there from the beginning and I really enjoyed how they snuck around because of their families.
By the end of the book I was just as much in love with Declan as Betsy was. He was charming, sexy and as sweet as pie. When he leaves little notes for Betsy about the things he remembers over the years he has known her really touched me. It was one of the sweetest moments I have read in a romance novel in such a long time.
I'm sad this series is ending but glad it's ending on a high note. I'm looking to reading many new series from Brown in the future.
Hands down this was my favorite story in this series. It held humor, heartache and an everlasting love. I loved how Declan and Betsy have liked each other since they were kids in Sunday school but didn't even think or hope they could be together. Both these characters have a love 'em and leave 'em reputation but come to find out it's not who they really are.
The story starts off with them longing for one another but knowing that's a impossible dream on both parts until Betsy is asked to help save Christmas in Burnt Boot. With Declan's help these two become unstoppable and little by little learn more about one another. After one kiss shakes them to the core and the more time they spend together their feelings become unstoppable. I just couldn't get enough of these two! One minute they were trading barbs and the next kissing. The chemistry was there from the beginning and I really enjoyed how they snuck around because of their families.
By the end of the book I was just as much in love with Declan as Betsy was. He was charming, sexy and as sweet as pie. When he leaves little notes for Betsy about the things he remembers over the years he has known her really touched me. It was one of the sweetest moments I have read in a romance novel in such a long time.
I'm sad this series is ending but glad it's ending on a high note. I'm looking to reading many new series from Brown in the future.
August 29, 2020
**Copy Provided by Netgalley and Sourcebooks Casablanca for an honest review**
This is the last book in the series and can be read as a stand alone very easily, but you get a better idea of the family feud after having read the first three books in the series.
Declan's sister was in book three and has thrown Declan a bone in wanting to get out from under the feud. When he loses at a poker game and has to make the next woman who walks int the bar fall in love with him, he is really pleased to see the see the woman who he has had a crush for year on walk in, it does not matter that she is from the rival family.
Betsy like a lot of her other family is fed up with the feud too and wants to go it alone, she too has had a crush on a member of the other feuding family. When she sees Declan under the willow tree she explains how she wants a christmas programme and Declan offers to help her.
IT is with having helping each other that their feeling for each other grow, but they are concerned at how their families will react. It's a modern day Romeo and Juliet.
Both have family members that support their choice, it is only the grandma's that are not happy and have been making the feud worse each year.
I have really loved this series and will certainly miss burnt boot.
This is the last book in the series and can be read as a stand alone very easily, but you get a better idea of the family feud after having read the first three books in the series.
Declan's sister was in book three and has thrown Declan a bone in wanting to get out from under the feud. When he loses at a poker game and has to make the next woman who walks int the bar fall in love with him, he is really pleased to see the see the woman who he has had a crush for year on walk in, it does not matter that she is from the rival family.
Betsy like a lot of her other family is fed up with the feud too and wants to go it alone, she too has had a crush on a member of the other feuding family. When she sees Declan under the willow tree she explains how she wants a christmas programme and Declan offers to help her.
IT is with having helping each other that their feeling for each other grow, but they are concerned at how their families will react. It's a modern day Romeo and Juliet.
Both have family members that support their choice, it is only the grandma's that are not happy and have been making the feud worse each year.
I have really loved this series and will certainly miss burnt boot.
October 14, 2020
A Cowboy Christmas Miracle
Well I have to be honest with you. When I first learned that this book was going to be about Declan Brennan and Betsy Gallagher, I figured there was no way I was going to enjoy it as much as the others because, I have to admit, I did not like Betsy. Now with that admission, my opinion of her started to change some almost immediately when she was trying to help her young cousin out. A real b***h wouldn't care about anyone but herself. Needless to say, I loved this book and I think it is my favorite of the series.
Well I have to be honest with you. When I first learned that this book was going to be about Declan Brennan and Betsy Gallagher, I figured there was no way I was going to enjoy it as much as the others because, I have to admit, I did not like Betsy. Now with that admission, my opinion of her started to change some almost immediately when she was trying to help her young cousin out. A real b***h wouldn't care about anyone but herself. Needless to say, I loved this book and I think it is my favorite of the series.
May 18, 2017
#What a great ending!
November 29, 2016
Four stars: A delightful Romeo and Juliet style tale with Texas style and Christmas cheer.
The Brennans and Gallaghers have been a feudin' for a hundred years. Each new generation is taught to hate the other family on sight from the time they are in diapers, but not all of them listen. Take Declan Brennan who has been nursing a secret crush on Betsy Gallagher since grade school, and unbeknownst to him, Betsy feels the same, but neither will act on their feelings because of the old feud. Things are about to change in the small town of Burnt Boot, where many folks are fed up with the feud. The winds of change begin to blow one night at a poker game, when Declan takes on a serious bet that could land him into a whole lot of hot water. Will Declan survive the bet? Will Christmas come to Burnt Boot this year?
What I Liked:
*A Cowboy Christmas Miracle is a delightful holiday read perfect for the season. I loved the chemistry and the sizzle, and that this one was packed full of all holiday cheer. If you need a feel good read, this is a fun one.
*I loved that this installment was more positive and that there wasn't as much nastiness when it came to the feud. In the previous books, the shenanigans between the Gallaghers and the Brennans was downright ugly. This time around, things are a bit more cheerful as one Gallagher and one Brennan work on the sly to restore Christmas to Burnt Boot. I won't tell you how it ends, but I will say, I had a big smile plastered on my face.
*I liked the Romeo and Juliet theme, especially since it didn't have a sad ending. The romance is funny and sweet, and it takes it's time to build. Once it ignites, it is fast and furious. If you like forbidden romances, this is one to try.
*I loved all the holiday cheer in this one. There is plenty of Christmas music, decorations, treats and goodwill to all mankind to help get you in the mood for the holidays.
*With every book by Carolyn Brown, I can't help but to smile at the humor and the sass. The characters are all down to earth, and they feel like your friends and neighbors. I always love that each and every one Mrs. Brown's novels includes at least one gal the other side of fifty, who has plenty of spunk and a sassy attitude. This time around, it was Lotty who made me giggle. I adored the characters in this one as well as the small town setting.
*The ending is sweet and satisfying, all done up with a nice, neat bow. It will leave you content and smiling. This is the perfect read for the holiday season.
And The Not So Much:
*The ending though sweet and nice was rapid fire. I thought everything moved at a whirlwind pace, and I wished that it had slowed down just a tad. I wanted to draw it out and savor the good stuff. *Especially when it came to the culmination of the romance, it was too hasty for my taste, but I still loved it.
*I was disappointed that Lotty left town, and that she wasn't present for the finale, I really wanted that old gal to be there. It wasn't the same without her.
*I was frustrated that one of the story lines from the last book regarding Leah and her mother wasn't finished. I thought it would be completed in this one, and it wasn't. I really wanted to see how things played out for Leah, Declan and their mom.
A Cowboy Christmas Miracle was a treat for all of those who want a fun, romantic holiday book. I loved the romance, the characters, the small town and the holiday spirit. This is a Romeo and Juliet tale Texas style with a Christmas backdrop. If you need a book for the holiday season, don't hesitate, grab this one! Loved it.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for a positive review. All opinions are my own, and I was not compensated for this review.
The Brennans and Gallaghers have been a feudin' for a hundred years. Each new generation is taught to hate the other family on sight from the time they are in diapers, but not all of them listen. Take Declan Brennan who has been nursing a secret crush on Betsy Gallagher since grade school, and unbeknownst to him, Betsy feels the same, but neither will act on their feelings because of the old feud. Things are about to change in the small town of Burnt Boot, where many folks are fed up with the feud. The winds of change begin to blow one night at a poker game, when Declan takes on a serious bet that could land him into a whole lot of hot water. Will Declan survive the bet? Will Christmas come to Burnt Boot this year?
What I Liked:
*A Cowboy Christmas Miracle is a delightful holiday read perfect for the season. I loved the chemistry and the sizzle, and that this one was packed full of all holiday cheer. If you need a feel good read, this is a fun one.
*I loved that this installment was more positive and that there wasn't as much nastiness when it came to the feud. In the previous books, the shenanigans between the Gallaghers and the Brennans was downright ugly. This time around, things are a bit more cheerful as one Gallagher and one Brennan work on the sly to restore Christmas to Burnt Boot. I won't tell you how it ends, but I will say, I had a big smile plastered on my face.
*I liked the Romeo and Juliet theme, especially since it didn't have a sad ending. The romance is funny and sweet, and it takes it's time to build. Once it ignites, it is fast and furious. If you like forbidden romances, this is one to try.
*I loved all the holiday cheer in this one. There is plenty of Christmas music, decorations, treats and goodwill to all mankind to help get you in the mood for the holidays.
*With every book by Carolyn Brown, I can't help but to smile at the humor and the sass. The characters are all down to earth, and they feel like your friends and neighbors. I always love that each and every one Mrs. Brown's novels includes at least one gal the other side of fifty, who has plenty of spunk and a sassy attitude. This time around, it was Lotty who made me giggle. I adored the characters in this one as well as the small town setting.
*The ending is sweet and satisfying, all done up with a nice, neat bow. It will leave you content and smiling. This is the perfect read for the holiday season.
And The Not So Much:
*The ending though sweet and nice was rapid fire. I thought everything moved at a whirlwind pace, and I wished that it had slowed down just a tad. I wanted to draw it out and savor the good stuff. *Especially when it came to the culmination of the romance, it was too hasty for my taste, but I still loved it.
*I was disappointed that Lotty left town, and that she wasn't present for the finale, I really wanted that old gal to be there. It wasn't the same without her.
*I was frustrated that one of the story lines from the last book regarding Leah and her mother wasn't finished. I thought it would be completed in this one, and it wasn't. I really wanted to see how things played out for Leah, Declan and their mom.
A Cowboy Christmas Miracle was a treat for all of those who want a fun, romantic holiday book. I loved the romance, the characters, the small town and the holiday spirit. This is a Romeo and Juliet tale Texas style with a Christmas backdrop. If you need a book for the holiday season, don't hesitate, grab this one! Loved it.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for a positive review. All opinions are my own, and I was not compensated for this review.
June 25, 2016
This last book in the Burnt Boot, Texas series is bitter sweet in that all the characters in the series have become like family...but Declan and Betsy's story has got to be hands down the perfect way to end the series. Their story is a modern day family feud, Romeo and Juliette (sans the tragic ending) HEA romance. Ms Brown has created characters that have so much dimension, that you are immediately drawn into the story from the opening...as you read you find yourself becoming emotionally invested in the story, and even though you can see just how wrong things are going to go with the outcome of "the bet", the twists and turns getting there are completely unexpected and truly delightful.
Declan touched me the most because of the depth of his love for Betsy and how long he had been collecting mementos of his love for her...since they were children. That this big, strapping, handsome cowboy could so eloquently voice his love through simply written words, truly tugged at my heartstrings. And then Betsy and her fiery personality and temper, had the strength of character to fight for her heart's desire, was at times laugh out loud hilarious! All the secondary characters, brought back from the previous books in the series, were so well developed by this time that they were instrumental in the perfect undertones of the overall story.
This book was provided by the Publisher and Netgalley for my honest review.
Declan touched me the most because of the depth of his love for Betsy and how long he had been collecting mementos of his love for her...since they were children. That this big, strapping, handsome cowboy could so eloquently voice his love through simply written words, truly tugged at my heartstrings. And then Betsy and her fiery personality and temper, had the strength of character to fight for her heart's desire, was at times laugh out loud hilarious! All the secondary characters, brought back from the previous books in the series, were so well developed by this time that they were instrumental in the perfect undertones of the overall story.
This book was provided by the Publisher and Netgalley for my honest review.
June 17, 2016
Carolyn Brown ends her Burnt Boot Series with Declan Brennan and Betsy Gallagher hooking up to spread a bit of Christmas magic and put an end to the one hundred year old feud. Oh, how I loved this story and the amazing characters that kept me turning page after page.
It started with a bet that Declan couldn't seduce the first woman to walk into Rosalie's bar. Just so happened that woman was fiery redheaded cowgirl Betsy Gallagher. Carolyn Brown puts a lovely western twist on Romeo and Juliet because Declan and Betsy had a secret crush on each other since grade school. She brings them together in a scheme to spread some Christmas magic for the families of Burnt Boot as in her heartfelt way of storytelling their long simmering attraction turned into a red hot flame that could break both of their hearts in the end or put a stop on the feud for good.
Carolyn Brown is an amazing author and her books never fail to make me smile. I felt that she put a special touch on this one. Now as I reluctantly say goodbye to the Burnt Boot series then I'm already looking forward to meeting some zany new friends in her next book, Luck Of The Draw.
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher in return for an honest review.
July 28, 2016
Miracles do happen especially around the holidays! This story is a great testimony to truth love, faith and never giving up. Declan and Betsy have to do what's best for themselves and in turn what's really in the best interest of Burnt Boot also. So many obstacles to overcome and so many feelings that this book brought out in me as I was reading. I laughed, got angry and then cried my eyes out. This is a wonderful holiday or any day romance that will warm your soul and bring you lots of joy!
November 2, 2017
Terrific conclusion to the Burnt Boot series. In the previous books, we have seen the escalation of the feud between the Gallagher and Brennan families, led by the family matriarchs, Naomi and Mavis. These two old ladies can't pass up a chance to yank the other's chain, which has resulted in some pretty hysterical events. There are a few neutral territories, such as the church, store, and bar, where members of each side must leave the feud at the door. This story begins at the bar, where the Gallaghers and Brennans compete in the weekly poker game. This time around the two most notorious playboys of the families enter into a bet that promises trouble like they've never seen before. Tanner Gallagher bets Declan Brennan that he can't seduce the next woman to walk into the bar. I loved Tanner's reaction when it's his cousin Betsy who becomes the target of the bet. Betsy has her own frustrations right now. She is Naomi's chosen successor, but she is frustrated with the whole feud thing. Her cousin Angela is sad because the feud has canceled the annual Christmas pageant, which means her new baby boy won't be able to be baby Jesus. Betsy has promised to fix the problem, even though Naomi has put her foot down. Betsy is at a loss about what to do.
Declan had been crushing on Betsy since they were kids, but a Brennan going out with a Gallagher? Not going to happen. When he finds Betsy at his favorite "thinking spot" and discovers her dilemma, it gives him the perfect excuse to spend time with her without Betsy getting suspicious. Betsy is wary of working with Declan. He's a Brennan, after all, and the crap will hit the fan if they are found out. Plus, she's had a thing for him since they were kids in Sunday School, and she just knows that spending time with him is going to put her heart in jeopardy.
I liked both Declan and Betsy. In spite of his playboy reputation, he is charming, sweet, and unexpectedly romantic. He finds some unique ways to spend time with Betsy. He also feels guilty about the bet at times, even though it gave him the reason to make his first move. In previous books, Betsy had been something of a brash man-eater, going after the new men in town. In this book, we see the softer side of her, the one that wants a life of her own. Her conversations with herself were pretty funny as she tried to fight her feelings.
I loved the development of Betsy and Declan's relationship. The necessity of keeping their work together a secret added the spice of danger to the sparks that grew between them. I loved how, when they put aside the feud, they discovered that there was so much that they had in common. I loved the "dates" at their "apartments" and the chance that a snow and ice storm gave the "Wisemans" the opportunity to spend quality time together. I ached for them both as their feelings grew along with the fear that the feud would keep them from the future they wanted together. Their frustration gave them each the fuel and motivation they needed to stand up for their own desires. I especially loved seeing Betsy push back against the pressure she gets from Naomi. The intensity grows when both Betsy and Declan end up competing to purchase the same piece of land. The ranch's owner, Lottie, was a trip and a half, and I loved her commentary, rules, and general feistiness. Of course, eventually Betsy finds out about the bet. Tanner was right to be scared of Betsy's temper, and I thoroughly enjoyed her retaliation, both in the bar (immediate gratification) and later as she found the perfect revenge. Dealing with Declan was a whole different story. I enjoyed how it went, from her being mad and expressing it, to Declan's patience as he waited through it, and his so romantic expressions of his feelings. His big moment at the end was great.
The progress of the feud throughout the series and in this book was fun to follow. Though it seemed that both sides were all in, as the series progressed there were some cracks that started to appear. I loved seeing both Declan and Betsy join forces to deal with the trouble caused by their grandmothers' stubbornness and the effect it ended up having on the whole town. The final scene at the church was awesome, and I loved seeing the grannies get what was coming to them.
Though the series is done, I'd love to see some more books come out of Burnt Boot. I think that Tanner and Quaid still need their own stories.
Declan had been crushing on Betsy since they were kids, but a Brennan going out with a Gallagher? Not going to happen. When he finds Betsy at his favorite "thinking spot" and discovers her dilemma, it gives him the perfect excuse to spend time with her without Betsy getting suspicious. Betsy is wary of working with Declan. He's a Brennan, after all, and the crap will hit the fan if they are found out. Plus, she's had a thing for him since they were kids in Sunday School, and she just knows that spending time with him is going to put her heart in jeopardy.
I liked both Declan and Betsy. In spite of his playboy reputation, he is charming, sweet, and unexpectedly romantic. He finds some unique ways to spend time with Betsy. He also feels guilty about the bet at times, even though it gave him the reason to make his first move. In previous books, Betsy had been something of a brash man-eater, going after the new men in town. In this book, we see the softer side of her, the one that wants a life of her own. Her conversations with herself were pretty funny as she tried to fight her feelings.
I loved the development of Betsy and Declan's relationship. The necessity of keeping their work together a secret added the spice of danger to the sparks that grew between them. I loved how, when they put aside the feud, they discovered that there was so much that they had in common. I loved the "dates" at their "apartments" and the chance that a snow and ice storm gave the "Wisemans" the opportunity to spend quality time together. I ached for them both as their feelings grew along with the fear that the feud would keep them from the future they wanted together. Their frustration gave them each the fuel and motivation they needed to stand up for their own desires. I especially loved seeing Betsy push back against the pressure she gets from Naomi. The intensity grows when both Betsy and Declan end up competing to purchase the same piece of land. The ranch's owner, Lottie, was a trip and a half, and I loved her commentary, rules, and general feistiness. Of course, eventually Betsy finds out about the bet. Tanner was right to be scared of Betsy's temper, and I thoroughly enjoyed her retaliation, both in the bar (immediate gratification) and later as she found the perfect revenge. Dealing with Declan was a whole different story. I enjoyed how it went, from her being mad and expressing it, to Declan's patience as he waited through it, and his so romantic expressions of his feelings. His big moment at the end was great.
The progress of the feud throughout the series and in this book was fun to follow. Though it seemed that both sides were all in, as the series progressed there were some cracks that started to appear. I loved seeing both Declan and Betsy join forces to deal with the trouble caused by their grandmothers' stubbornness and the effect it ended up having on the whole town. The final scene at the church was awesome, and I loved seeing the grannies get what was coming to them.
Though the series is done, I'd love to see some more books come out of Burnt Boot. I think that Tanner and Quaid still need their own stories.
December 3, 2025
A heartfelt end to the series
Declan Brennan is in the neutral bar playing poker with family enemy Tanner Gallagher when they make a bet. Loser has to make the next woman who walks in the bar fall in love with him in a month. When Declan loses and Betsy Gallagher walks into the bar, Declan knows he has his work cut out for him. But he has loved Betsy since childhood, so this is his chance to maybe win her for good, or lose her forever with her terrible temper! Which will it be? Find out in this rousing conclusion to the series! Read this series in order to get the full impact of the implications!
The pace is fast and the tone is uncertain with a character centered storyline that has some steamy scenes but not a lot of details. The characters are vibrant and endearing. This is a family feud worse than the Hatfields and McCoys. See how this all plays out in this conclusion to a super cowboy romance series!
Declan Brennan is in the neutral bar playing poker with family enemy Tanner Gallagher when they make a bet. Loser has to make the next woman who walks in the bar fall in love with him in a month. When Declan loses and Betsy Gallagher walks into the bar, Declan knows he has his work cut out for him. But he has loved Betsy since childhood, so this is his chance to maybe win her for good, or lose her forever with her terrible temper! Which will it be? Find out in this rousing conclusion to the series! Read this series in order to get the full impact of the implications!
The pace is fast and the tone is uncertain with a character centered storyline that has some steamy scenes but not a lot of details. The characters are vibrant and endearing. This is a family feud worse than the Hatfields and McCoys. See how this all plays out in this conclusion to a super cowboy romance series!
November 6, 2017
I had so much fun with this book. Even though I have not read book 3 in the Burnt Boot series I wouldnt miss this opportunity to rejoin the residents for their feud and Christmas celebration. Quiet like Romeo and Juliette, Declan and Betsy have been secretly in love with each other for years. Unfortunately being on the wrong side of the feud meant that glances and steering clear of each other is the best they could do.
Poor (and I say that loosely) Declan makes a 1000 dollar bet that he can seduce and sleep with the next woman that walks in the door of the bar and it turns out to be Betsy. The two of them being on opposite sides of the feud isn't enough for him to back out. Let's just say he gets everything coming to him when Betsy finds out.
I love reading stories that make me smile, This one made me grin!
Poor (and I say that loosely) Declan makes a 1000 dollar bet that he can seduce and sleep with the next woman that walks in the door of the bar and it turns out to be Betsy. The two of them being on opposite sides of the feud isn't enough for him to back out. Let's just say he gets everything coming to him when Betsy finds out.
I love reading stories that make me smile, This one made me grin!
January 12, 2021
Yet another Christmas book I read that was in the middle of a series I've never read before. Actually this was the last book in a series. At first I thought I might like this series but without having read the other books I was turned off to find out that this feud that is going on between the Gallaghers and the Brennans has involved one blowing up the other families school and the other burning down the other families school in the past. Who does that??? This book shows the Gallaghers causing a huge manger scene to catch fire and burn and the Brennans kidnapped Santa for the towns tree lighting. So dumb! I could go on and on but there is no point. I never really felt like Betsy fell for Declan. He for sure has fallen for her and has been in love with her for forever.
July 7, 2021
Love Heals
Betsy + Declan = Sparks! The feud between the Gallaghers and the Brennans had been going on for 100 yrs. Naomi Gallagher and Mavis Brennan, the Matriarchs, keep it going because they hate each other. Red hair, emerald eyes, and curvy Betsy Gallagher has had a crush on sandy-brown hair, blue eyed, TDH Declan Brennan for years. He has had a crush on Betsy since childhood. The grandma bullys were hilarious as the two grandchildren decided to stand up to them. Lottie was awesome and helped Declan and Betsy solve their problem by selling them her farm. I really enjoyed this book. Mrs. Brown writes great cowboy stories. Loved all these characters and recommend this book.
Betsy + Declan = Sparks! The feud between the Gallaghers and the Brennans had been going on for 100 yrs. Naomi Gallagher and Mavis Brennan, the Matriarchs, keep it going because they hate each other. Red hair, emerald eyes, and curvy Betsy Gallagher has had a crush on sandy-brown hair, blue eyed, TDH Declan Brennan for years. He has had a crush on Betsy since childhood. The grandma bullys were hilarious as the two grandchildren decided to stand up to them. Lottie was awesome and helped Declan and Betsy solve their problem by selling them her farm. I really enjoyed this book. Mrs. Brown writes great cowboy stories. Loved all these characters and recommend this book.
May 18, 2024
2.5 stars
Knowing about Betsy and her behavior from series book 2, when she is fighting Kensey to entrap Sawyer, I have a difficult time accepting her as Declan's long-time crush. As a stand-alone without the other books and their characters' history, I would have given it a higher rating. But as it is a story within the series, I think there should have been a come-to moment for character change or made it a different love interest within the feuding families.
Knowing about Betsy and her behavior from series book 2, when she is fighting Kensey to entrap Sawyer, I have a difficult time accepting her as Declan's long-time crush. As a stand-alone without the other books and their characters' history, I would have given it a higher rating. But as it is a story within the series, I think there should have been a come-to moment for character change or made it a different love interest within the feuding families.
September 2, 2019
Betsy Gallagher & Declan Brennan
miracles do happen at Christmas and it took these two to end a 100 year old feud. The secretly worked together to bring back Christmas to the church. While they did that they fell in love. It might have been a bet that Declan lost to her cousin Tanner, but it was Betsy that forgave him and saw that Declan really did love her for her.
miracles do happen at Christmas and it took these two to end a 100 year old feud. The secretly worked together to bring back Christmas to the church. While they did that they fell in love. It might have been a bet that Declan lost to her cousin Tanner, but it was Betsy that forgave him and saw that Declan really did love her for her.
March 5, 2020
This was amazing because they need the fud and had a life of there own and there is no more fighting between the family. There are no more wars. They can be happy in the new life they have. Working together and having fun with it is going to make the world a better place. Then you should always follow your heart to see where it will lead you.
June 2, 2021
I don't believe it .!
This is just a good all the round, story. It seems like it cannot ever happen .The fued is all consuming .If you read this book, you can see what's happening.Carolyn Brown writes books that put you in the book. If this score went up to 10 then you would receive it.
This is just a good all the round, story. It seems like it cannot ever happen .The fued is all consuming .If you read this book, you can see what's happening.Carolyn Brown writes books that put you in the book. If this score went up to 10 then you would receive it.
August 19, 2022
The feud continues but a dumb bet is about to drive a big hole through it. Betsy Gallagher is a fiery redhead who takes no guff. Declan Brennan is a tall, blond drink of cowboy who has secretly been in love with Betsy since grade school. They go through a lot, including keeping secrets, and playing Santa for the church. Good ending to the feud and the series.
July 4, 2018
Wow, a must read, especially for feuding, communities & family!!
This book is the last of 4 really great reads. Absolutely great reading entertainment. Love all these western books, so real and fun to read.
This book is the last of 4 really great reads. Absolutely great reading entertainment. Love all these western books, so real and fun to read.
February 7, 2021
Final book in the Burnt Boot series. Fun story with a few unexpected twists. Have grown to know these characters and was sad to say goodbye but I can read these again for some fun holiday reading. Really enjoyed this book and series!
April 17, 2021
Enjoyed reading
Enjoyed reading about Declan and Betsy. The family died has gone on for years. They both want it to end. The get together to bring peace and Christmas back to Burnt Boot.
Enjoyed reading about Declan and Betsy. The family died has gone on for years. They both want it to end. The get together to bring peace and Christmas back to Burnt Boot.
January 21, 2022
Great ending to this series. I really liked these characters and the plot of this book. Kind of wish there were stories for Quaid and Tanner. Also, where did Honey end up? Looking forward to reading more from this talented author.
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