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Texas Justice #3
A Lone Star Christmas
A Christmas in Last Stand brings unexpected gifts to two very different people…
Detective Sean Highwater may be one of the famous Highwaters, but he has always felt a half-step off because of the way his agile mind works. Only learning to focus has enabled him to not just survive, but thrive.
Elena de la Cova is from a respected and highly regarded founding family, brought up with rather stringent expectations, but right now she is a widow trying to raise a son she doesn’t understand.
If Last Stand had royalty, in Sean’s book it would be elegant Elena. He’s willing to help her son as he had been helped, but being that close to Elena scares him to death since he’s been in awe of her for years. Elena is impressed both with the way Sean gets through to her son, and with his appreciation for the Christmas customs of her culture as much as his own.
Their perceptions of each other shift, but will the passion that strikes between them be enough to overcome their perceptions of themselves?
Detective Sean Highwater may be one of the famous Highwaters, but he has always felt a half-step off because of the way his agile mind works. Only learning to focus has enabled him to not just survive, but thrive.
Elena de la Cova is from a respected and highly regarded founding family, brought up with rather stringent expectations, but right now she is a widow trying to raise a son she doesn’t understand.
If Last Stand had royalty, in Sean’s book it would be elegant Elena. He’s willing to help her son as he had been helped, but being that close to Elena scares him to death since he’s been in awe of her for years. Elena is impressed both with the way Sean gets through to her son, and with his appreciation for the Christmas customs of her culture as much as his own.
Their perceptions of each other shift, but will the passion that strikes between them be enough to overcome their perceptions of themselves?
296 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 7, 2019
303 people are currently reading
167 people want to read
About the author
Justine Davis
252 books217 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 46 reviews
April 15, 2022
A beautifully written, complex and passionate story. Two people who have been through great tragedy and heartbreak will find love and acceptance with each other and a future that is beautifully bright.
Sean Highwater is an intelligent man. He is one of Last Stand's detectives and a man who thrives on solving puzzles whether they be for policework, fun or just life in general. Sean has always had a thoughtful way of thinking and not a big fan of social situations. Childhood bullies have made him wary and cautious. Because of this, Sean has led a rather lonely life. With the exception of his family, the rare individuals that truly understand him, Sean is decidedly content. As for a significant other? For the last decade there has only been one woman to hold his attention. Elena de la Cova. To Sean she is Last Stand royalty. A beautiful, elegant woman who carries herself with a regal air. Elena is not pretentious or snobbish. She is a widow with a ten-year-old son.
Over the course of the book, Sean and Elena will find themselves in each other’s company more often then not. Sean will eventually learn that Elena, while elegant, beautiful and what he describes as regal, is most definitely attainable for a quiet introvert such as himself.
I won’t go into details but I will say I enjoyed Sean and Elena’s story very much and named it as one of my favorite holiday reads. I definitely recommend this book, which while part of a series, can be read as a standalone. In fact, I am looking forward to reading about the other Highwater siblings.
This is my honest and unbiased review. Thank you for taking the time to read it.
Sean Highwater is an intelligent man. He is one of Last Stand's detectives and a man who thrives on solving puzzles whether they be for policework, fun or just life in general. Sean has always had a thoughtful way of thinking and not a big fan of social situations. Childhood bullies have made him wary and cautious. Because of this, Sean has led a rather lonely life. With the exception of his family, the rare individuals that truly understand him, Sean is decidedly content. As for a significant other? For the last decade there has only been one woman to hold his attention. Elena de la Cova. To Sean she is Last Stand royalty. A beautiful, elegant woman who carries herself with a regal air. Elena is not pretentious or snobbish. She is a widow with a ten-year-old son.
Over the course of the book, Sean and Elena will find themselves in each other’s company more often then not. Sean will eventually learn that Elena, while elegant, beautiful and what he describes as regal, is most definitely attainable for a quiet introvert such as himself.
I won’t go into details but I will say I enjoyed Sean and Elena’s story very much and named it as one of my favorite holiday reads. I definitely recommend this book, which while part of a series, can be read as a standalone. In fact, I am looking forward to reading about the other Highwater siblings.
This is my honest and unbiased review. Thank you for taking the time to read it.
December 31, 2019
Sean and Elena’s love story in A Lone Star Christmas by Justine Davis, book three in her Texas Justice series, reminds us that love can happen when you least expect it. Sean Highwater mind works differently than others which makes him feel out of step with the world. That mind of his has been more than helpful with his career as a detective but not when it comes to socializing with people. Elena de la Cova, a widow trying to raise a son she doesn’t understand, like Sean is from a founding family and a few years older. Sean learns that Elena’s son is quite like he was as a kid, following rabbit holes of thought and unlike others his age. Sean has always been in awe of Elena and afraid to talk to her; treating her like she’s Last Stand royalty. Sean agrees to help Elena’s son like he had been helped but being close to her scares him. Elena is impressed with how Sean gets through to her son, as well as Sean’s appreciation for the Christmas customs of her culture as much as his own. There is a definite chemistry between Sean and Elena and others see the electricity arcing between them; they need to continue to enjoy the time spent together and explore the possibilities of a future together.
Ms. Davis wrote a wonderful and emotional story that is definitely not to be missed. She provided a tale rich with sexual chemistry, amusing banter, and endearing characters giving Sean and Elena a chance to learn that an age difference does not matter and love will hits unexpectedly. I highly recommend A Lone Star Christmas to other readers and look forward to the next book in this series.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
Ms. Davis wrote a wonderful and emotional story that is definitely not to be missed. She provided a tale rich with sexual chemistry, amusing banter, and endearing characters giving Sean and Elena a chance to learn that an age difference does not matter and love will hits unexpectedly. I highly recommend A Lone Star Christmas to other readers and look forward to the next book in this series.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
October 17, 2023
FREE today (October 17, 2023) on Amazon.
Received an Advance Reader Copy in exchange for a fair review
4.5 stars.
A celebration of romance and a hope for the last romantics. “A Lone Star Christmas”, by Justine Davis (Tule Publishing), is good for readers who love a shy, smitten hero and the secret crush trope.
A story for both old-school romantics and lovers of the shy, weird, handsome hero, who learned to adapt and to deal with his issues, yet is still, at his core, the awkward little boy, “the odd one out”.
Sean is a delicious character, a Beta hero who worships the heroine. How the odd guy becomes a successful, respected detective with high-demand skills is evidence of how deep and supportive the Highwater family bonds are. I loved the detailed writing of the hero and how what we knew about him from the previous books was developed and explored by Justine Davis with so much creativity and talent, really exceeding one’s expectations.
The slow-burn romance that suddenly reaches the point of combustion is exquisitely written. I loved how Sean and Elena complement and inspire each other and loved the first kiss scene.
It’s great to have an older heroine, one who has dealt with considerable grief.
The rapport between Sean and Marcos is sweet too, even if sometimes the sameness of their issues sounds a bit implausible.
The mystery around the missing brother, Kane, leaves me waiting eagerly for the next story.
Received an Advance Reader Copy in exchange for a fair review
4.5 stars.
A celebration of romance and a hope for the last romantics. “A Lone Star Christmas”, by Justine Davis (Tule Publishing), is good for readers who love a shy, smitten hero and the secret crush trope.
A story for both old-school romantics and lovers of the shy, weird, handsome hero, who learned to adapt and to deal with his issues, yet is still, at his core, the awkward little boy, “the odd one out”.
Sean is a delicious character, a Beta hero who worships the heroine. How the odd guy becomes a successful, respected detective with high-demand skills is evidence of how deep and supportive the Highwater family bonds are. I loved the detailed writing of the hero and how what we knew about him from the previous books was developed and explored by Justine Davis with so much creativity and talent, really exceeding one’s expectations.
The slow-burn romance that suddenly reaches the point of combustion is exquisitely written. I loved how Sean and Elena complement and inspire each other and loved the first kiss scene.
It’s great to have an older heroine, one who has dealt with considerable grief.
The rapport between Sean and Marcos is sweet too, even if sometimes the sameness of their issues sounds a bit implausible.
The mystery around the missing brother, Kane, leaves me waiting eagerly for the next story.
November 12, 2023
3.25 stars
November 19, 2019
If you enjoy contemporary romances set in a small town with a close knit community, then this is one for you to enjoy – I know I certainly did!
Both the Highwater and de la Cova families are well respected founding families in Last Stand, Texas. Sean Highwater has always felt something of an oddity as he is great at solving problems and thinking things through but he tends to switch off from the world whilst he does so – his Dad used to call it going down the rabbit hole. Whilst this caused him problems at times whilst growing up, his supportive family always helped and his skills are now put to great use as a detective working in law enforcement. His tenacity and insights have helped make him one of the most successful detectives in the state, with offers to work elsewhere that he frequently declines, preferring to work under his older brother who understands his ways. He has been attracted to Elena de la Cova since he was eighteen years old, when she tried to save his father after he’d been fatally injured. He’s always thought her too good for him, so admired her from a distance. When he stops bullies attacking a boy he didn’t realise the boy is her son, nor that this intervention would change things for all three of them!
This is a story helping show that being different is often misunderstood. I loved how Sean is able to explain things to both Elena and her son in ways that help them all. Having taught children with some forms of what may be generically referred to as autism it is great to see this so sympathetically portrayed, making it easy to empathise with and comprehend from all points of view. It is a moving story about changing perceptions, taking chances and love. I thoroughly enjoyed reading it and have no hesitation in highly recommending it.
i requested and was gifted a copy of this book and this is my honest review after choosing to read it.
Both the Highwater and de la Cova families are well respected founding families in Last Stand, Texas. Sean Highwater has always felt something of an oddity as he is great at solving problems and thinking things through but he tends to switch off from the world whilst he does so – his Dad used to call it going down the rabbit hole. Whilst this caused him problems at times whilst growing up, his supportive family always helped and his skills are now put to great use as a detective working in law enforcement. His tenacity and insights have helped make him one of the most successful detectives in the state, with offers to work elsewhere that he frequently declines, preferring to work under his older brother who understands his ways. He has been attracted to Elena de la Cova since he was eighteen years old, when she tried to save his father after he’d been fatally injured. He’s always thought her too good for him, so admired her from a distance. When he stops bullies attacking a boy he didn’t realise the boy is her son, nor that this intervention would change things for all three of them!
This is a story helping show that being different is often misunderstood. I loved how Sean is able to explain things to both Elena and her son in ways that help them all. Having taught children with some forms of what may be generically referred to as autism it is great to see this so sympathetically portrayed, making it easy to empathise with and comprehend from all points of view. It is a moving story about changing perceptions, taking chances and love. I thoroughly enjoyed reading it and have no hesitation in highly recommending it.
i requested and was gifted a copy of this book and this is my honest review after choosing to read it.
October 27, 2019
Sean has always been different. Different in the way his mind works and has always had to work diligently to keep focus in order to live. For Sean, Elena is special. So special he has her on a pedestal high up like royalty. He wants to get to know her but has always avoided her due to the way his mind works. She scares him in the way she makes him feel when he's around her. Little did he know that Marcos her son is just like him. They start spending time together forming a bond. Which has Sean and Elena also spending time together finally getting a chance to possibly have a relationship. The story also has the continued search for Sean's missing brother Kane. A sweet romantic read that shows how people can be different, still thrive, connect, be accepted and become a family. I voluntarily read and reviewed an ARC from Tule Publishing.
November 9, 2019
Detective Sean Hightower growing up always felt a little different than the other children. He likes to avoid large crowds and he was always considered a little nerdy. He is now a Detective and he is in an unmarked police car watching several boys . He sees them picking on a young man named Marcos. Marcos reminds him of himself. He can relate to the boy. But he "arrests" the other boys hoping that will stop them from bullying Marcos or anyone else again.
When Marco's Mother comes to get him he recognizes her as the woman who was holding his father on the side of the road as he was dying from being hit by a car. He was reminded of that tragic event. Anyone it seems that during the book he helps Marcos learn to protect himself when needed from others and he helps Marcos's mother as well.
A really good book that you will enjoy.
When Marco's Mother comes to get him he recognizes her as the woman who was holding his father on the side of the road as he was dying from being hit by a car. He was reminded of that tragic event. Anyone it seems that during the book he helps Marcos learn to protect himself when needed from others and he helps Marcos's mother as well.
A really good book that you will enjoy.
November 1, 2023
A slow Burn romance with a different hero. Sean, third son of the renowned Highwater family of Last Stand, Texas. Sean is brilliant and has always felt different from the rest of his family as well as the rest of the world. As a detective in his town's police force, his agile mind has created an unmatched solve percentage in their cases. He is sought after by other police departments for seminars. His ideal woman is the regal, untouchable, stunning widow of a soldier hero with a son whose mind works the same way Sean's does. When he sees the boy being bullied at school, he finds numerous solutions for the boy to use. This brings him in closer contact with his beautiful mother, and they become close. A nice holiday story.
October 25, 2023
He is 5 years younger than her (now 25 close to her 30) she is a military widow with an 11 yr old son. He is one of a family of original ranchers in Last Stand, TX. She is a member of the town’s original families (Mexican). He’s been in love with her since he was 18. She had his dad in her arms when he died in a car accident. Her son and he both tend to get lost in thought (down the rabbit hole). He saves son from bullies and takes him on to build up esteem and strength. The connection opens them up to fall in love. Part of series, still hunting from brother missing since dad’s accident.
March 12, 2024
Sean Highwater has always been just a little bit different from everyone else. He's brilliant, and he suffered from the death of his father as a teen. Elena de la Cova was there the day his father died. Her Hispanic family has long been among the movers and shakers in town, and Sean has had a crush on her from the day his dad died, despite her being several years older. Elena is now a single mom with a young boy who is much like Sean. When Sean starts working with him, the two are brought together during the Christmas season and eventually get their HEA.
November 16, 2023
I started reading this with enthusiasm. It is well written wirh interesting characters, although I thought the plot was a bit too predictable. I was wrong. The plot was much, much too predictable. By the 50% mark I was bored to death. It is a typical push-pull plot, where both protagonists are hung up and many too many pages are taken up with their childishness, holding onto decisions made long ago, neither growing up. Boring.
December 30, 2024
I dont know I just wasn’t into this book.
I’m tryna marathon spring it to the end to finish my goal of the year.
I dont know everything just felt so impersonal, and so smart. Why why why was the author using such big words.
I just didn’t connect with either one of them, and they like fell into this passionate ordeal after 2 weeks of kinda hanging out around a kid.
I dont know I loveddddssd how there was no breakup though.
I’m tryna marathon spring it to the end to finish my goal of the year.
I dont know everything just felt so impersonal, and so smart. Why why why was the author using such big words.
I just didn’t connect with either one of them, and they like fell into this passionate ordeal after 2 weeks of kinda hanging out around a kid.
I dont know I loveddddssd how there was no breakup though.
October 20, 2023
Could be a good book, but the non-editing
I was enjoying the book until about chapter 5. The book started to need editing. The book started to look & read like a high school student w/o editing skills. The was too many run-on sentences & lack of flow in the book. If the writer took the time to have an editor, then it would have been a much better book.
I was enjoying the book until about chapter 5. The book started to need editing. The book started to look & read like a high school student w/o editing skills. The was too many run-on sentences & lack of flow in the book. If the writer took the time to have an editor, then it would have been a much better book.
October 22, 2023
very good
This is a touching, very good story. He has a unique manner of solving mysteries. She is a widow with a unique and interesting son. As the story goes on, they obviously become a perfect couple.
This is a touching, very good story. He has a unique manner of solving mysteries. She is a widow with a unique and interesting son. As the story goes on, they obviously become a perfect couple.
October 26, 2023
Wonderful
This is my first read by this author, but not my last. Everything about this story Is wonderful. I love all the characters in this book and am now going to go back and read the first two books.
This is my first read by this author, but not my last. Everything about this story Is wonderful. I love all the characters in this book and am now going to go back and read the first two books.
September 11, 2025
A fitting end to two special people
What a lovely ending to Sean's infatuation with Elena. He had secretly loved her for many years, but only when Sean rescued her son from some bullies, did they manage to get properly together and find their happily ever after.
What a lovely ending to Sean's infatuation with Elena. He had secretly loved her for many years, but only when Sean rescued her son from some bullies, did they manage to get properly together and find their happily ever after.
August 5, 2020
Great characters. I love how he acted with her son--not sappy, just honest and helpful. Great story.
December 25, 2021
Absolutely loved this moving story. Such a tale of respect and love that it will stay with me for a long time.
November 5, 2023
Likeable, interesting characters and a satisfying story. Very engaging and now I need to read the others in the series!
November 30, 2023
Good read.
December 1, 2023
Love with history
Two people who have know each other for years in a small town, Get to know each other in a different way and fall in love . Good story.
Two people who have know each other for years in a small town, Get to know each other in a different way and fall in love . Good story.
December 4, 2023
A beautiful story with compelling characters! A wonderful series.
December 24, 2023
Surprised at how much I enjoyed this story & well written
October 11, 2025
4.5/5 ⭐️ I really really liked this book!!
January 7, 2020
Justine Davis writes a moving story which provides characters a reader can become attached to. She draws the reader into the Last Stand and entices them to never want to leave. I love the small town where everyone knows everyone and it adds to the romance. Once you step into this small town you will go looking for the other books in the series because you will never want to leave.
Delane
Reviewer for Coffee Time Romance & More
Full Review @ Coffee Time Romance & More>
Delane
Reviewer for Coffee Time Romance & More
Full Review @ Coffee Time Romance & More>
November 7, 2019
A Lone Star Christmas by Justine Davis
A Christmas in Last Stand brings unexpected gifts to two very different people…
Detective Sean Highwater may be one of the famous Highwaters, but he has always felt a half-step off because of the way his agile mind works. Only learning to focus has enabled him to not just survive, but thrive.
Elena de la Cova is from a respected and highly regarded founding family, brought up with rather stringent expectations, but right now she is a widow trying to raise a son she doesn’t understand.
If Last Stand had royalty, in Sean’s book it would be elegant Elena. He’s willing to help her son as he had been helped, but being that close to Elena scares him to death since he’s been in awe of her for years. Elena is impressed both with the way Sean gets through to her son, and with his appreciation for the Christmas customs of her culture as much as his own.
Their perceptions of each other shift, but will the passion that strikes between them be enough to overcome their perceptions of themselves?
This is Elena de la Cova and Sean Highwater's story.
“My mother loves me,” Marcos said, with certainty.
“Then you’ll get through this.
“Bring him on in,” Sage said. “Somebody who knows him saw what happened and told his mom, and she’s already here.”
Detective Sean Highwater sat tapping his finger restlessly on the steering wheel of his unmarked police unit as he watched the people in the park. He’d been restless all day. It must have been Thanksgiving that had thrown him off. It had been so late this year, just two days before the end of the month, that he was still mentally trying to catch up now on the day after. And they were already looking at the Corbyns’ tree-trimming open house—the unofficial start of the Christmas season in Last Stand—tomorrow.
He’d never liked the changing date of that holiday anyway. It offended his sense of logic, of rhythm, of pattern and progression. Most other holidays were regular, predictable, never moving from their dates. He had to deal with enough randomness—as in that of the human race—in his work, he didn’t like having to deal with it on the calendar, too.
Be thankful They don’t change everything else the way They did with Washington’s birthday. If They’ll mess with George Washington just to get a long weekend, They’ll do anything.
A Lone Star Christmas by Justine Davis is a 4 star book.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
Justine's Books with Tule:
Whiskey River Rescue
Whiskey River Series
Whiskey River Runaway
Whiskey River Series
Whiskey River Rockstar
Whiskey River Series
The Lone Star Lawman
Texas Justice
Lone Star Nights
Texas Justice
A Lone Star Christmas
Texas Justice
A Christmas in Last Stand brings unexpected gifts to two very different people…
Detective Sean Highwater may be one of the famous Highwaters, but he has always felt a half-step off because of the way his agile mind works. Only learning to focus has enabled him to not just survive, but thrive.
Elena de la Cova is from a respected and highly regarded founding family, brought up with rather stringent expectations, but right now she is a widow trying to raise a son she doesn’t understand.
If Last Stand had royalty, in Sean’s book it would be elegant Elena. He’s willing to help her son as he had been helped, but being that close to Elena scares him to death since he’s been in awe of her for years. Elena is impressed both with the way Sean gets through to her son, and with his appreciation for the Christmas customs of her culture as much as his own.
Their perceptions of each other shift, but will the passion that strikes between them be enough to overcome their perceptions of themselves?
This is Elena de la Cova and Sean Highwater's story.
“My mother loves me,” Marcos said, with certainty.
“Then you’ll get through this.
“Bring him on in,” Sage said. “Somebody who knows him saw what happened and told his mom, and she’s already here.”
Detective Sean Highwater sat tapping his finger restlessly on the steering wheel of his unmarked police unit as he watched the people in the park. He’d been restless all day. It must have been Thanksgiving that had thrown him off. It had been so late this year, just two days before the end of the month, that he was still mentally trying to catch up now on the day after. And they were already looking at the Corbyns’ tree-trimming open house—the unofficial start of the Christmas season in Last Stand—tomorrow.
He’d never liked the changing date of that holiday anyway. It offended his sense of logic, of rhythm, of pattern and progression. Most other holidays were regular, predictable, never moving from their dates. He had to deal with enough randomness—as in that of the human race—in his work, he didn’t like having to deal with it on the calendar, too.
Be thankful They don’t change everything else the way They did with Washington’s birthday. If They’ll mess with George Washington just to get a long weekend, They’ll do anything.
A Lone Star Christmas by Justine Davis is a 4 star book.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
Justine's Books with Tule:
Whiskey River Rescue
Whiskey River Series
Whiskey River Runaway
Whiskey River Series
Whiskey River Rockstar
Whiskey River Series
The Lone Star Lawman
Texas Justice
Lone Star Nights
Texas Justice
A Lone Star Christmas
Texas Justice
December 26, 2019
Set in Last Stand Texas, A Lone Star Christmas is the third book in the Texas Justice series. It is a beautiful, emotional story which addresses issues such as prejudice, bullying and misconceptions about social standing. I loved Detective Sean Highwater, who grew up a little geeky and was picked on as a result. His understanding and wise approach to helping Elena’s son Marcos learn to value his worth and turn his phenomenal intellect to useful purposes was amazing. I was so impressed! To have this man also appear on the page as strong and handsome had me in serious swoon territory.
Elena de la Cova, the woman he’s worshipped from afar since he was 18, is another beautifully developed character. She owned every page she appeared on with her elegance and poise, but it was the way author Justine Davis drew out the human, susceptible and passionate side of this gorgeous woman.
This story is very much character driven and I defy anybody to read the story and not be drawn into their world, their hopes and their dreams. It is beautifully paced and balanced and in my opinion the best so far in this series. The Christmas theme simply added icing to the cake.
Elena de la Cova, the woman he’s worshipped from afar since he was 18, is another beautifully developed character. She owned every page she appeared on with her elegance and poise, but it was the way author Justine Davis drew out the human, susceptible and passionate side of this gorgeous woman.
This story is very much character driven and I defy anybody to read the story and not be drawn into their world, their hopes and their dreams. It is beautifully paced and balanced and in my opinion the best so far in this series. The Christmas theme simply added icing to the cake.
November 16, 2019
Reviewed at Keeper Bookshelf
A LONE STAR CHRISTMAS quickly captured my attention and my emotions as we finally get Sean’s story and have the chance to understand him a bit better. If you’ve read the Texas Justice series so far then you’ve run into this remarkable brother with a mind that never stops. (If you haven’t started the series I would definitely recommend it.) There are many layers to Sean, those that he allows the world to see and those that he keeps to himself, even as much as he can, from this family. His long-time admiration of, and maybe his crush on Elena, will finally see the light of reality as he helps her son, Marcos, deal with bullies and with abilities that mirror Sean’s in so many ways. Where most of the world doesn’t “get” Marcos, Sean does and begins a relationship with the hope that he can help Marcos as he was once helped by his mentor.
This is a slow burn romance between an older woman with an extraordinary son and a slightly younger man who comes to know the real Elena, not the woman he’s put up on a pedestal for so many years. I enjoyed their combined stories, the glimpses into an incredible mind, and running into old book friends once again. We have two more siblings who need to find their happy ever after, one a brother who has to be found at all to bring happiness to his family and hopefully himself. We’re not done with the Highwater family just yet, and I’m fine with that. If you love a really good romance that will tickle your funny bone, perhaps get you misty-eyed, deliver a couple who work together so well plus the magic of Christmas and all of the various ways we celebrate this day – then you’ll love A LONE STAR CHRISTMAS.
*I received an e-ARC of this novel from the publisher, Tule Publishing. That does not change what I think of this story. It is my choice to leave a review giving my personal opinion about this book.*
A LONE STAR CHRISTMAS quickly captured my attention and my emotions as we finally get Sean’s story and have the chance to understand him a bit better. If you’ve read the Texas Justice series so far then you’ve run into this remarkable brother with a mind that never stops. (If you haven’t started the series I would definitely recommend it.) There are many layers to Sean, those that he allows the world to see and those that he keeps to himself, even as much as he can, from this family. His long-time admiration of, and maybe his crush on Elena, will finally see the light of reality as he helps her son, Marcos, deal with bullies and with abilities that mirror Sean’s in so many ways. Where most of the world doesn’t “get” Marcos, Sean does and begins a relationship with the hope that he can help Marcos as he was once helped by his mentor.
This is a slow burn romance between an older woman with an extraordinary son and a slightly younger man who comes to know the real Elena, not the woman he’s put up on a pedestal for so many years. I enjoyed their combined stories, the glimpses into an incredible mind, and running into old book friends once again. We have two more siblings who need to find their happy ever after, one a brother who has to be found at all to bring happiness to his family and hopefully himself. We’re not done with the Highwater family just yet, and I’m fine with that. If you love a really good romance that will tickle your funny bone, perhaps get you misty-eyed, deliver a couple who work together so well plus the magic of Christmas and all of the various ways we celebrate this day – then you’ll love A LONE STAR CHRISTMAS.
*I received an e-ARC of this novel from the publisher, Tule Publishing. That does not change what I think of this story. It is my choice to leave a review giving my personal opinion about this book.*
May 25, 2020
I received this arc in exchange for an honest review. I love this series by Justine Davis. This is book 3 and each book is about a different couple. In addition each book extends the background story about what happened to the missing brother, Kane. In this book we learn more about the other Last Stand lawman, Sean. He is the puzzle solver in the family. He had a tough time growing up as he was different than other kids, he was a geek. We learn that Sean has always had a crush on Elena, whose family owns the restaurant Valencia. She was the one who ran out of the restaurant after the Highwater father was hit by a car and subsequently died, in her arms. He has made a point of avoiding her as it feels uncomfortable to him to see her after she tried to save his dad.
The story opens when Sean comes upon a boy being bullied and he intercedes. He recognized himself in the victim. It turns out his mom is Elena. She is a widow whose Husband was killed in the war. Her son is like Sean, a video game fanatic who disappears into himself leading people to see him as a geek. Sean offers to teach self defense, Elena tries to pay him and ends up having him over for dinner as a thank you. She lives with her mother, a now retired high school teacher. Their family is originally from Mexico and observes a lot of their county’s culture. They include Sean in the celebrations. Both Sean and Elena have hesitation over a relationship due to their pasts. They eventually give into their feelings.
This is a great story with a HEA. It is wonderful how Elena and Sean each overcome some of their personal fears and include her son Marcos in their plans. The characters are all very likable and the plot is quite compelling. The Christmas setting adds to the romance of the story. I look very forward to 2020 and the remaining stories.
The story opens when Sean comes upon a boy being bullied and he intercedes. He recognized himself in the victim. It turns out his mom is Elena. She is a widow whose Husband was killed in the war. Her son is like Sean, a video game fanatic who disappears into himself leading people to see him as a geek. Sean offers to teach self defense, Elena tries to pay him and ends up having him over for dinner as a thank you. She lives with her mother, a now retired high school teacher. Their family is originally from Mexico and observes a lot of their county’s culture. They include Sean in the celebrations. Both Sean and Elena have hesitation over a relationship due to their pasts. They eventually give into their feelings.
This is a great story with a HEA. It is wonderful how Elena and Sean each overcome some of their personal fears and include her son Marcos in their plans. The characters are all very likable and the plot is quite compelling. The Christmas setting adds to the romance of the story. I look very forward to 2020 and the remaining stories.
November 8, 2019
A Lone Star Christmas by Justine Davis is the story of what was once thought to be unattainable becoming within one’s grasp. The third story in the Highwaters of Last Stand, Texas, has Detective Sean Highwater at the center. As it has been throughout the series his father’s death still plays a major role in the lives of the Highwater siblings. In this case, it is the first time Sean sees Elena de la Cova.
Elena is a few years older than Sean who sees himself as too different so that he believes Elena would never give him a second thought. I am not sure about these Highwater men, they are smart, handsome, live with integrity and are loved by all but each one has a closet full of self-doubt. Perhaps that is their mother’s doing, who knows. It is something I hope is explored in future books. As for Elena she is good for Sean just as Sean is good for her. I loved her son, Marcos with his honest approach to life and situations. The story of three becoming family is full of love, loyalty and a bit of steam.
The missing brother mystery is not solved but progress is made in this story. Questions are also brought to light I know their Sage needs her story but I so hope that Kane gets a full book too. Somehow the series will not seem complete to me without it.
4.5 Stars
An ARC of the book was given to me by Tule Publishing which I voluntarily chose to read and reviewed. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Elena is a few years older than Sean who sees himself as too different so that he believes Elena would never give him a second thought. I am not sure about these Highwater men, they are smart, handsome, live with integrity and are loved by all but each one has a closet full of self-doubt. Perhaps that is their mother’s doing, who knows. It is something I hope is explored in future books. As for Elena she is good for Sean just as Sean is good for her. I loved her son, Marcos with his honest approach to life and situations. The story of three becoming family is full of love, loyalty and a bit of steam.
The missing brother mystery is not solved but progress is made in this story. Questions are also brought to light I know their Sage needs her story but I so hope that Kane gets a full book too. Somehow the series will not seem complete to me without it.
4.5 Stars
An ARC of the book was given to me by Tule Publishing which I voluntarily chose to read and reviewed. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
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