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Texas Cattleman's Club: Ranchers and Rivals #1
Staking a Claim
Falling for the wrong twin never felt so right in the first installment of Texas Cattleman’s Ranchers and Rivals by USA TODAY bestselling author Janice Maynard.
It’s a Lone Star matchmaking twin swap!
As a favor to his identical twin, Joshua Banks agrees to pose as his brother. The switch is supposed to last for just one “date” with Layla Grandin, their childhood friend. But dinner soon leads to much, much more. Trust is everything to Layla—she’s been burned before and secrets are destroying her ranching family. If Joshua stands any chance of staking a claim on relationship-wary Layla, the Texan has to confess so much more than his true identity. And risk losing more than he ever imagined…
From Harlequin A luxurious world of bold encounters and sizzling chemistry.
Love triumphs in this uplifting romance, part of the Texas Cattleman's Ranchers and Rivals
Book 1: Staking a Claim by Janice Maynard
Book 2: Boyfriend Lessons by Sophia Singh Sasson
Book 3: On Opposite Sides by Cat Schield
Book 4: Rivalry at Play by Nadine Gonzalez
It’s a Lone Star matchmaking twin swap!
As a favor to his identical twin, Joshua Banks agrees to pose as his brother. The switch is supposed to last for just one “date” with Layla Grandin, their childhood friend. But dinner soon leads to much, much more. Trust is everything to Layla—she’s been burned before and secrets are destroying her ranching family. If Joshua stands any chance of staking a claim on relationship-wary Layla, the Texan has to confess so much more than his true identity. And risk losing more than he ever imagined…
From Harlequin A luxurious world of bold encounters and sizzling chemistry.
Love triumphs in this uplifting romance, part of the Texas Cattleman's Ranchers and Rivals
Book 1: Staking a Claim by Janice Maynard
Book 2: Boyfriend Lessons by Sophia Singh Sasson
Book 3: On Opposite Sides by Cat Schield
Book 4: Rivalry at Play by Nadine Gonzalez
218 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published April 1, 2022
16 people are currently reading
62 people want to read
About the author
Janice Maynard
537 books431 followersJanice Maynard came to the writing life early! When her third grade short story, “The Princess and the Robbers”, won a red ribbon in a school arts fair, Janice was hooked. She followed up that early success with a more commercial piece in the sixth grade… “Why My Mom Loves To Drink Coke”. No advance for that one, but she won a six-pack of Coke… remember those great little bottles?
In junior high Janice began circulating her work to a wider audience. A dozen or so notebook pages stapled together made the rounds in some particularly boring classes, with the riveting tales carefully hidden behind textbooks.
High school meant the big time… editor of the school newspaper, the Maroon and White. Janice used her insightful editorials to delve into such meaty subjects as “locker room odor” and “why we need two-ply tissue in the student bathrooms”.
College brought lots of writing, but very little of it creative… four years later, Janice stepped into the adult world as a fully certified elementary teacher.
Despite motherhood, full-time employment, and keeping up with an “always into something” husband, Janice never lost her love of writing or the desire to be published. In 1996 she realized her long-time dream when Kensington Publishing bought her first book, Sweetheart. That exciting moment was followed by the sales of two more books in the Precious Gem line.
In the fall of 2002, Janice left the classroom to pursue writing full-time.
In junior high Janice began circulating her work to a wider audience. A dozen or so notebook pages stapled together made the rounds in some particularly boring classes, with the riveting tales carefully hidden behind textbooks.
High school meant the big time… editor of the school newspaper, the Maroon and White. Janice used her insightful editorials to delve into such meaty subjects as “locker room odor” and “why we need two-ply tissue in the student bathrooms”.
College brought lots of writing, but very little of it creative… four years later, Janice stepped into the adult world as a fully certified elementary teacher.
Despite motherhood, full-time employment, and keeping up with an “always into something” husband, Janice never lost her love of writing or the desire to be published. In 1996 she realized her long-time dream when Kensington Publishing bought her first book, Sweetheart. That exciting moment was followed by the sales of two more books in the Precious Gem line.
In the fall of 2002, Janice left the classroom to pursue writing full-time.
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April 25, 2022I really enjoyed this story for a quick, simple read. Sometimes when you read these stories they reiterate the same things over and over again and in this book I didn’t feel that way. I enjoyed that we had a background plot separate from the insta-love story. The thing that bothered me about the background plot however was it was left with no conclusion. This is apart of a series (A Texas Cattleman’s Club: Ranchers and Rivals) so maybe it will continue on with more books. However if you are reading this as a stand alone like I did its seemed a bit unfinished in that sense but not enough to bother me. It was nice tho because it seemed to give the book more depth. I liked the characters and felt connected to them. Their relationships didn’t feel forced and it was believable.
The next part may have mild spoilers
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SPOILER ALERT
The only thing in this book I really disliked was one scene where Josh wakes in the middle of the night, wakes Layla up, and they make love again. That in itself did not bother me at all, pretty normal in a relationship. However it starts with Josh thinking “Could a guy get in trouble for coaxing a drowsy woman into sex?” So this wasn’t a drunken hook up they were friends with benefits prior to this already so wouldn’t bother me at all. But the addition of that line just made it feel icky even tho it wasn’t. I just wish that line had been left out.
I was surprised the twin switch wasn’t drawn out like I expected, that actually was revealed pretty quickly and honestly I was thankful because I wasn’t sure I was going to enjoy dragging that out.
All in all I did enjoy this book and I would recommend it to anyone who enjoys quick romance books.
I received an early copy of this book for my honest review
The next part may have mild spoilers
.
.
.
.
.
.
SPOILER ALERT
The only thing in this book I really disliked was one scene where Josh wakes in the middle of the night, wakes Layla up, and they make love again. That in itself did not bother me at all, pretty normal in a relationship. However it starts with Josh thinking “Could a guy get in trouble for coaxing a drowsy woman into sex?” So this wasn’t a drunken hook up they were friends with benefits prior to this already so wouldn’t bother me at all. But the addition of that line just made it feel icky even tho it wasn’t. I just wish that line had been left out.
I was surprised the twin switch wasn’t drawn out like I expected, that actually was revealed pretty quickly and honestly I was thankful because I wasn’t sure I was going to enjoy dragging that out.
All in all I did enjoy this book and I would recommend it to anyone who enjoys quick romance books.
I received an early copy of this book for my honest review
September 15, 2022
Excellent book. I've been reading this series out of order, so I was happy to finally read the first book. It opens with the funeral of Layla's grandfather, a man she adored despite his old-fashioned views. During the reception, Layla is approached by her father and one of his friends, who manipulate her into accepting a date with one of the man's sons. It is especially embarrassing because Layla used to have a massive crush on Jordan. Layla hung out frequently with Jordan and his twin brother, Joshua, when they were kids, but they'd grown apart as adults. She reluctantly accepts the date.
Segue to Jordan, who was also manipulated into the date. He's not happy about it because he already had plans for that night. So he asks his brother, Joshua, to take his place. Josh has recently returned to the ranch after leaving his job in Dallas and divorcing his wife. He agrees but feels guilty about the deception.
I loved that scene of Josh arriving to pick up Layla and pretending to be Jordan. Layla hasn't spent time with Jordan in at least four years, so she is initially confused about her first reaction to him. Josh is uncomfortable pretending to be Jordan, and his awkward responses to Layla's conversation muddle things further. It doesn't take long for Layla to realize that she is with Josh, not Jordan, and wonder why the deception. She doesn't call him out on it right away but plays along. Once Josh relaxes a little, he and Layla get along great. Also immediately apparent is the intense attraction both feel, though they don't act on it. Going against "the plan," Josh makes another date with Layla, determined to come clean and be himself.
That second date was terrific. I loved seeing Josh stumble a bit over his confession, then be surprised that Layla had already figured it out. With that out of the way, they were free to explore what was between them. With both coming off failed relationships, neither expresses any interest in anything more than enjoying each other's company. But neither can they stop thinking about each other and wanting to be together. I loved seeing Josh's support of Layla as she dealt with her grandmother's illness and the other family turmoil. It isn't long before both realize they want more than a friends-with-benefits relationship.
However, both Josh and Layla have insecurities that throw up obstacles to the future. Josh has been waffling about what he wants to do now that he's back in Royal. Josh makes the mistake of keeping his plans secret until he feels everything is perfect. Layla's trust issues cause her to react badly to something she hears. I ached for Josh in the ensuing confrontation and wanted to shake Layla for not asking for the truth. It takes some time, but I loved seeing him confront Layla about what she said and why. Once the lines of communication are open, it doesn't take long for each to see their mistakes. I loved seeing them come together and realize that they belong together. The epilogue was great too.
During Layla's grandfather's funeral reception, the family is served with papers claiming that the oil rights to their land and that of the Lattimores had been given to a woman and her daughter. This is the first time anyone from either family is aware of such a promise, and no one wants to believe it. Oil drilling on their land would destroy what they have, and both families are determined to prove the claim false. We briefly meet the claimants, who do not make a good impression. Some secrets are revealed, but the truth of the claim is under investigation. It will be interesting to see how the pieces come together as the series continues.
Segue to Jordan, who was also manipulated into the date. He's not happy about it because he already had plans for that night. So he asks his brother, Joshua, to take his place. Josh has recently returned to the ranch after leaving his job in Dallas and divorcing his wife. He agrees but feels guilty about the deception.
I loved that scene of Josh arriving to pick up Layla and pretending to be Jordan. Layla hasn't spent time with Jordan in at least four years, so she is initially confused about her first reaction to him. Josh is uncomfortable pretending to be Jordan, and his awkward responses to Layla's conversation muddle things further. It doesn't take long for Layla to realize that she is with Josh, not Jordan, and wonder why the deception. She doesn't call him out on it right away but plays along. Once Josh relaxes a little, he and Layla get along great. Also immediately apparent is the intense attraction both feel, though they don't act on it. Going against "the plan," Josh makes another date with Layla, determined to come clean and be himself.
That second date was terrific. I loved seeing Josh stumble a bit over his confession, then be surprised that Layla had already figured it out. With that out of the way, they were free to explore what was between them. With both coming off failed relationships, neither expresses any interest in anything more than enjoying each other's company. But neither can they stop thinking about each other and wanting to be together. I loved seeing Josh's support of Layla as she dealt with her grandmother's illness and the other family turmoil. It isn't long before both realize they want more than a friends-with-benefits relationship.
However, both Josh and Layla have insecurities that throw up obstacles to the future. Josh has been waffling about what he wants to do now that he's back in Royal. Josh makes the mistake of keeping his plans secret until he feels everything is perfect. Layla's trust issues cause her to react badly to something she hears. I ached for Josh in the ensuing confrontation and wanted to shake Layla for not asking for the truth. It takes some time, but I loved seeing him confront Layla about what she said and why. Once the lines of communication are open, it doesn't take long for each to see their mistakes. I loved seeing them come together and realize that they belong together. The epilogue was great too.
During Layla's grandfather's funeral reception, the family is served with papers claiming that the oil rights to their land and that of the Lattimores had been given to a woman and her daughter. This is the first time anyone from either family is aware of such a promise, and no one wants to believe it. Oil drilling on their land would destroy what they have, and both families are determined to prove the claim false. We briefly meet the claimants, who do not make a good impression. Some secrets are revealed, but the truth of the claim is under investigation. It will be interesting to see how the pieces come together as the series continues.
May 11, 2022
Staking a Claim by Janice Maynard is the first book in the new Texas Cattleman's Club: Ranchers and Rivals series. I really enjoyed Layla and Josh. Both characters with a past but find a way to break through their barriers for their own happily ever after. A little intrigue is always fun and it looks like we have it in this new Texas Cattleman Club series. Another fabulous book by Ms. Maynard. I received an advance copy which I chose to read and review. This is my honest opinion.
May 1, 2022
Reviewed at Happily Ever After Romance
Staking a Claim begins the Texas Cattleman’s Club: Ranchers and Rivals multi-author series with a story of trust (or the lack of it), and a family with secrets about to be discovered.
Layla’s beloved grandfather has died, and with his death comes expected changes to the ranch… and some unexpected ones as well. She’s recently ended an engagement with a cheating jerk and has no interest in anything romantic any time soon. But she’ll be embarrassed at the reception after the funeral by her father’s friend with the reminder of a childhood crush and an arranged date. The last thing she wants is to go to this concert with Jordan. Yes, she’d been friends all her life with the twins, and she’d crushed hard on Jordan but that was then not now. Deciding to actually keep that date will set in motion events that will change her life… should she decide to take the risk of trusting a man again, and that possibility is up in the air.
Joshua has returned home after a divorce that proved the love his ex-wife claimed was for his money and family name… not for him. It’s a hard truth to swallow but he’s making changes in his life leaving behind not only the ex-wife but his job in Dallas as well. His return is just in time for his brother to pull another twin switch on him – only this time the end results will be far different than either of them expected.
I liked this couple, their reactions to events were believable (even if I cringed at Layla’s so wrong assumptions, I understood them). Layla has grown up with Jordan and Joshua so it didn’t take her long to realize it was Josh on this date with her, although she kept that to herself for the moment. I’m grateful that the twin switch wasn’t drawn out too long, and amused by Layla’s quick understanding of what was happening all the while going along with it… for now. It was, at times, painful to see Layla’s mistrust of Josh’s feelings unfold. Oh, I understood why she’d feel that way, simply as a romantic, I hoped she sees his heart in his actions sooner.
In the midst of this couple finding their way from friends with benefits to a lifetime love we’ll also discover what mystery will be the underlying thread throughout this series. Seems oil rights are involved… and no one in Layla’s family believes the claim, for now at least. That will be fascinating to see slowly resolve.
In all, I enjoyed Staking a Claim very much. Layla’s and Josh’s romance filled with misunderstandings is fun, sexy, and full of sizzling chemistry. Watching trust grow between them, even if it came late and at a cost was well worth the wait. I’m interested in seeing how the oil rights with outsiders will be resolved, I’m sure it will involve more romances along the way. I had fun here, and the next Texas Cattleman’s Club series is off to a great start.
I own a Kindle edition of this title.
Staking a Claim begins the Texas Cattleman’s Club: Ranchers and Rivals multi-author series with a story of trust (or the lack of it), and a family with secrets about to be discovered.
Layla’s beloved grandfather has died, and with his death comes expected changes to the ranch… and some unexpected ones as well. She’s recently ended an engagement with a cheating jerk and has no interest in anything romantic any time soon. But she’ll be embarrassed at the reception after the funeral by her father’s friend with the reminder of a childhood crush and an arranged date. The last thing she wants is to go to this concert with Jordan. Yes, she’d been friends all her life with the twins, and she’d crushed hard on Jordan but that was then not now. Deciding to actually keep that date will set in motion events that will change her life… should she decide to take the risk of trusting a man again, and that possibility is up in the air.
Joshua has returned home after a divorce that proved the love his ex-wife claimed was for his money and family name… not for him. It’s a hard truth to swallow but he’s making changes in his life leaving behind not only the ex-wife but his job in Dallas as well. His return is just in time for his brother to pull another twin switch on him – only this time the end results will be far different than either of them expected.
I liked this couple, their reactions to events were believable (even if I cringed at Layla’s so wrong assumptions, I understood them). Layla has grown up with Jordan and Joshua so it didn’t take her long to realize it was Josh on this date with her, although she kept that to herself for the moment. I’m grateful that the twin switch wasn’t drawn out too long, and amused by Layla’s quick understanding of what was happening all the while going along with it… for now. It was, at times, painful to see Layla’s mistrust of Josh’s feelings unfold. Oh, I understood why she’d feel that way, simply as a romantic, I hoped she sees his heart in his actions sooner.
In the midst of this couple finding their way from friends with benefits to a lifetime love we’ll also discover what mystery will be the underlying thread throughout this series. Seems oil rights are involved… and no one in Layla’s family believes the claim, for now at least. That will be fascinating to see slowly resolve.
In all, I enjoyed Staking a Claim very much. Layla’s and Josh’s romance filled with misunderstandings is fun, sexy, and full of sizzling chemistry. Watching trust grow between them, even if it came late and at a cost was well worth the wait. I’m interested in seeing how the oil rights with outsiders will be resolved, I’m sure it will involve more romances along the way. I had fun here, and the next Texas Cattleman’s Club series is off to a great start.
I own a Kindle edition of this title.
April 25, 2022
I really enjoyed this story for a quick, simple read. Sometimes when you read these stories they reiterate the same things over and over again and in this book I didn’t feel that way. I enjoyed that we had a background plot separate from the insta-love story. The thing that bothered me about the background plot however was it was left with no conclusion. This is apart of a series (A Texas Cattleman’s Club: Ranchers and Rivals) so maybe it will continue on with more books. However if you are reading this as a stand alone like I did its seemed a bit unfinished in that sense but not enough to bother me. It was nice tho because it seemed to give the book more depth. I liked the characters and felt connected to them. Their relationships didn’t feel forced and it was believable.
The next part may have mild spoilers
.
.
.
.
.
.
SPOILER ALERT
The only thing in this book I really disliked was one scene where Josh wakes in the middle of the night, wakes Layla up, and they make love again. That in itself did not bother me at all, pretty normal in a relationship. However it starts with Josh thinking “Could a guy get in trouble for coaxing a drowsy woman into sex?” So this wasn’t a drunken hook up they were friends with benefits prior to this already so wouldn’t bother me at all. But the addition of that line just made it feel icky even tho it wasn’t. I just wish that line had been left out.
I was surprised the twin switch wasn’t drawn out like I expected, that actually was revealed pretty quickly and honestly I was thankful because I wasn’t sure I was going to enjoy dragging that out.
All in all I did enjoy this book and I would recommend it to anyone who enjoys quick romance books.
I received an early copy of this book for my honest review
The next part may have mild spoilers
.
.
.
.
.
.
SPOILER ALERT
The only thing in this book I really disliked was one scene where Josh wakes in the middle of the night, wakes Layla up, and they make love again. That in itself did not bother me at all, pretty normal in a relationship. However it starts with Josh thinking “Could a guy get in trouble for coaxing a drowsy woman into sex?” So this wasn’t a drunken hook up they were friends with benefits prior to this already so wouldn’t bother me at all. But the addition of that line just made it feel icky even tho it wasn’t. I just wish that line had been left out.
I was surprised the twin switch wasn’t drawn out like I expected, that actually was revealed pretty quickly and honestly I was thankful because I wasn’t sure I was going to enjoy dragging that out.
All in all I did enjoy this book and I would recommend it to anyone who enjoys quick romance books.
I received an early copy of this book for my honest review
May 11, 2022
I am an avid fan of Janice Maynard and this book did not disappoint! In fact, since my mother passed last July, I have started several books but just was unable to finish them until this one.
What better scenario than childhood friends except maybe that the friends are twins?
Layla Grandin grew up with the Banks twins and had nursed a crush on Jordan for a long time. But she's all grown up, and so are Jordan and Joshua. She's trying to deal with the loss of her dear grandfather and shake off regrets from a broken engagement. Jordan is moving back to town from Dallas after the end of his marriage. When the twins' father cooks up a scheme to try to unite the families, he pushes concert tickets onto Joshua and insists he and Layla attend together. Unbeknownst to their father, Joshua and Jordan trade places just like in the old days because Joshua has plans he doesn't want to break. And although it's been years since they've spent time together, Layla is pretty certain she is with Jordan instead of Joshua but doesn't let on in case she's wrong. They both end up having a really good time and Layla feels like she needs to confess that she knows who she's really with.
One date turns into another and Jordan confesses about the switch and Layla admits she knew all along. Or thought she did. They both are wary of the feelings that are being stirred up. A lot of doubts and second-guessing. Then throw in the issue of a bombshell that was dropped the day of Layla's grandfather's funeral regarding oil rights and secrets that could destroy the Grandin family and this makes for a pretty good page-turner. This book is part of the Texas Cattlemen's Club continuation series so there will be more of Jordan and Layla in future books, I'm sure.
What better scenario than childhood friends except maybe that the friends are twins?
Layla Grandin grew up with the Banks twins and had nursed a crush on Jordan for a long time. But she's all grown up, and so are Jordan and Joshua. She's trying to deal with the loss of her dear grandfather and shake off regrets from a broken engagement. Jordan is moving back to town from Dallas after the end of his marriage. When the twins' father cooks up a scheme to try to unite the families, he pushes concert tickets onto Joshua and insists he and Layla attend together. Unbeknownst to their father, Joshua and Jordan trade places just like in the old days because Joshua has plans he doesn't want to break. And although it's been years since they've spent time together, Layla is pretty certain she is with Jordan instead of Joshua but doesn't let on in case she's wrong. They both end up having a really good time and Layla feels like she needs to confess that she knows who she's really with.
One date turns into another and Jordan confesses about the switch and Layla admits she knew all along. Or thought she did. They both are wary of the feelings that are being stirred up. A lot of doubts and second-guessing. Then throw in the issue of a bombshell that was dropped the day of Layla's grandfather's funeral regarding oil rights and secrets that could destroy the Grandin family and this makes for a pretty good page-turner. This book is part of the Texas Cattlemen's Club continuation series so there will be more of Jordan and Layla in future books, I'm sure.
March 30, 2022
This is the first in the Texas Cattleman Club series by Janice Maynard. Ms. Maynard always a talented author proves herself again in Staking a Claim. If you're old enough to remember the television show Dallas, then you'll remember the mystique of Texas millionaires who dabbled in oil, horses, and cattle during the day often donning a Stetson hat while doing so. Come night time, they'd slip on their best hand tooled cowboy boots for a night on the town.
This is Layla Grandin's world. While she is good with training the horses and keeping the bottom line in the black, she wants more from her life than being the Grandin girl with the ruined engagement. The sudden death of her grandfather, a strong patriarch and a mentor to Layla, throws the family into chaos as secrets burst into the open shocking all and threatening the Grandin Legacy.
A helping hand comes from a handsome neighbor. Even though Layla would love to accept the support should she? Can she afford the involvement with everything else going on in her life? Better yet, despite her words about keeping things light and easy, she knows it's a lie.
This intriguing, spicy romance kept me turning the papers and pausing now and then to fan myself. Staking a Claim is another great read by Janice Maynard. Romance fans rejoice.
This is Layla Grandin's world. While she is good with training the horses and keeping the bottom line in the black, she wants more from her life than being the Grandin girl with the ruined engagement. The sudden death of her grandfather, a strong patriarch and a mentor to Layla, throws the family into chaos as secrets burst into the open shocking all and threatening the Grandin Legacy.
A helping hand comes from a handsome neighbor. Even though Layla would love to accept the support should she? Can she afford the involvement with everything else going on in her life? Better yet, despite her words about keeping things light and easy, she knows it's a lie.
This intriguing, spicy romance kept me turning the papers and pausing now and then to fan myself. Staking a Claim is another great read by Janice Maynard. Romance fans rejoice.
April 12, 2022
Staking a Claim is the 1st in a new Texas Cattlemen Club series: Ranchers and Rivals. And it is going to be a great series. In this first book, it’s a twin switch. One brother does a favour for the other and in doing so they hope that Layla Grandin, there childhood friend does not pick up that she is going out with Joshua Banks and not Jordan Banks, who she had a girlhood crush on. But now she is a woman and she knows the difference. What she does not know is that being with Josh would become such a big part of her life. She has never had a man be there for her and the days and nights they spend together ignites feelings neither of them seen coming. Both have been hurt when it comes to romance and the future, but when they come together, Layla can see a future with Josh.
I loved this book; it was a quick read and kept the reader wanting to find out what happens next with Layla and Josh. The chemistry between them is off the rails and even when they are apart neither can stop thinking of the other. We meet Layla and Josh’s families along with some new characters introduced in the City of Royal, TX and the ever-present TCC and will be anticipating who will be the next couple to fall in love in Royal, TX. Great start to this series Janice Maynard.
I was given a copy of this book for my honest review!
I loved this book; it was a quick read and kept the reader wanting to find out what happens next with Layla and Josh. The chemistry between them is off the rails and even when they are apart neither can stop thinking of the other. We meet Layla and Josh’s families along with some new characters introduced in the City of Royal, TX and the ever-present TCC and will be anticipating who will be the next couple to fall in love in Royal, TX. Great start to this series Janice Maynard.
I was given a copy of this book for my honest review!
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May 11, 2022If you are a fan of The Texas Cattleman's Club stories and Janice Maynard, you have a win, win with this book that is the 1st in a new mini-series Ranchers and Rivals! Welcome back to Royal, Texas. Peaceful and quiet Royal; unless of course you happen to be a member of or know a member of the Texas Cattleman’s Club, then all bets are off! Yes, once again I heading to Royal, the best place in the world to find all kinds of intrigue and goings on that would put Peyton Place and Dallas to shame. It’s also where we start off with Janice Maynard’s newest book Staking a Claim which is also book 1 of the new series Texas Cattleman's Club: Ranchers and Rivals; it’s always fun to look in on the folks in Royal as you never know who’s going to end up in the hot seat. This time we find twins Joshua & Jordan and their school friend Layla that are trying to be manipulated by parents into forming a marriage. As usual things don’t go as planned since they were trying to pair Layla with Jordan the total playboy with Layla (of course she’s not fooled when Joshua shows up to take Jordan’s place on the date. This is a must read for any fan of the Texas Cattleman’s Club mini-series and if you are like me whenever you go back to Royal it’s a goodtime with lots of twists and turns. Loved every page of this book!
April 25, 2022
Second Chances and Twins!!
My first read by this author, and I thoroughly enjoyed it!
Two large family ranches; the Banks and the Grandins. From the Grandin side we focus on Layla. She would be second in line - but her older sister and her and not “considered”; third born Vic is favored due to his gender. Lyla is tender due to a lying fiance, and the recent death of her grandfather.
From the Banks we have twins Jordan and Joshua. Layla had an early crush on Jordan, but he plays the field. Joshua moved away to Dallas, married, divorced, and is back hoping to be part of the ranch again. Jordan is set up with a concert date with Layla, but has other plans, so convinces Joshua to go in his place. Layla has always been able to tell the difference between them, but it has been years since they’ve seen each other.
An emotional journey for these characters, with complications of family , history and past relationships.
*** I am voluntarily leaving my honest review of this book ***
My first read by this author, and I thoroughly enjoyed it!
Two large family ranches; the Banks and the Grandins. From the Grandin side we focus on Layla. She would be second in line - but her older sister and her and not “considered”; third born Vic is favored due to his gender. Lyla is tender due to a lying fiance, and the recent death of her grandfather.
From the Banks we have twins Jordan and Joshua. Layla had an early crush on Jordan, but he plays the field. Joshua moved away to Dallas, married, divorced, and is back hoping to be part of the ranch again. Jordan is set up with a concert date with Layla, but has other plans, so convinces Joshua to go in his place. Layla has always been able to tell the difference between them, but it has been years since they’ve seen each other.
An emotional journey for these characters, with complications of family , history and past relationships.
*** I am voluntarily leaving my honest review of this book ***
April 27, 2022
I loved this boiling romance! Desire and heat are sparkling from the first meeting till the last page, it’s a wonderful read, with a bit more heat than I had expected, but who’s complaining. It’s a kind of childhood friends to lovers romance and you can feel that as well in this book. Loved it!
Falling for the wrong twin never felt so right in the first installment of Texas Cattleman’s Club: Ranchers and Rivals
As a favor to his identical twin, Joshua Banks agrees to pose as his brother. The switch is supposed to last for just one “date” with Layla Grandin, their childhood friend. But dinner soon leads to much, much more. Trust is everything to Layla—she’s been burned before and secrets are destroying her ranching family. If Joshua stands any chance of staking a claim on relationship-wary Layla, the Texan has to confess so much more than his true identity. And risk losing more than he ever imagined…
Falling for the wrong twin never felt so right in the first installment of Texas Cattleman’s Club: Ranchers and Rivals
As a favor to his identical twin, Joshua Banks agrees to pose as his brother. The switch is supposed to last for just one “date” with Layla Grandin, their childhood friend. But dinner soon leads to much, much more. Trust is everything to Layla—she’s been burned before and secrets are destroying her ranching family. If Joshua stands any chance of staking a claim on relationship-wary Layla, the Texan has to confess so much more than his true identity. And risk losing more than he ever imagined…
April 21, 2022
Staking a Claim by Janice Maynard is the first book in the Harlequin continuity series, Texas Cattleman's Club: Ranchers and Rivals. Layla Grandin gets talked into going to a concert with a friend from her youth, Jordan Banks. Jordan is one half of a set of identical twins. Jordan talks his twin brother Joshua Banks into doing one of their twin switches and so it is Josh who picks up Layla for the concert. Layla isn't fooled and both Layla and Josh feel instant attraction to each other. Both have baggage from failed relationships and so start out leery about connecting with each other.
I enjoyed this storyline and really like the characters. The overall arc for the series is set up and I can't wait to see how author Kiana Alexander sets the arc along in the next book in the series, After Hours Temptation. This was a fun read!
I received an ARC and this is my honest review.
I enjoyed this storyline and really like the characters. The overall arc for the series is set up and I can't wait to see how author Kiana Alexander sets the arc along in the next book in the series, After Hours Temptation. This was a fun read!
I received an ARC and this is my honest review.
April 1, 2022
Staking a Claim takes us back to Royal TX where the Grandin family has buried their grandfather and on the same day someone is trying to get oil rights. The Grandin and Lattimore ranches are under fire and its up to the heirs to find out why! Layla Grandin has a major distrust of men and it is going to get tested when she ends up on a date with Jordan Banks her crush of years ago. Unfortunately, it’s not Jordan she goes out with, it’s his twin Joshua and boy are things going to get Interesting! Layla knows the twins and she knows who she’s with and her feelings are confusing! They both realize that they have chemistry and are a lot alike. It takes a little pushing and facing trust issues! Janice has done it again giving us a great start to a new series!
April 25, 2022
Intriguing kickoff to a brand new Texas Cattleman's Club spin-off! The first in the Ranchers and Rivals series is easy to sink your teeth into from the start. Various families and their members are introduced and is a tad overwhelming, but the groundwork is lain for the scandal that is about to rock this town. I'm looking forward to watching how the series plays out for sure.
Joshua is newly back in Royal and drama already seems to be attaching itself to him when his twin gets him mixed up in a touchy situation right off the bat.
Layla is a fun character and I enjoyed watching her relationship with Josh grow.
I recommend this book to anyone who enjoys the Texas Cattleman's Club saga as each branch of mystery takes us on a journey of power, scandal and lust.
Joshua is newly back in Royal and drama already seems to be attaching itself to him when his twin gets him mixed up in a touchy situation right off the bat.
Layla is a fun character and I enjoyed watching her relationship with Josh grow.
I recommend this book to anyone who enjoys the Texas Cattleman's Club saga as each branch of mystery takes us on a journey of power, scandal and lust.
May 2, 2022
Staking a Claim is the first book in the Texas Cattleman’s Club latest miniseries Ranchers and Rivals. The story centers around Josh Banks and Layla Grandin, who along with Josh’s twin brother Jordan are childhood friends. Josh and Layla reconnect when Jordan asks Josh to switch places for a date, and things rapidly accelerate from there. Both Josh and Layla feel lost in their separate family dynamics and they have both been recently burned in their respective love lives. Can they learn to trust again and possibly move forward with their new relationship?
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. Both Josh and Layla were easy characters to like, and I enjoyed seeing how their childhood relationship rapidly morphed into a very real, very grownup one which, at the beginning of the book, neither of them was really sure they wanted. Ms. Maynard led the H/h through a maze of self discovery and little by little, the walls each had built up were ready to come down clearing the path to their HEA. Outside troubles always appear in any Desire novel and this one is no exception. Someone is after the Banks’ oil rights ! That question will not be answered until the last book in this miniseries. This was a satisfying read that left me eager to read the subsequent books.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. Both Josh and Layla were easy characters to like, and I enjoyed seeing how their childhood relationship rapidly morphed into a very real, very grownup one which, at the beginning of the book, neither of them was really sure they wanted. Ms. Maynard led the H/h through a maze of self discovery and little by little, the walls each had built up were ready to come down clearing the path to their HEA. Outside troubles always appear in any Desire novel and this one is no exception. Someone is after the Banks’ oil rights ! That question will not be answered until the last book in this miniseries. This was a satisfying read that left me eager to read the subsequent books.
May 3, 2022
Off to a great start of the series
It took me almost a full chapter to get into the story enough to actually ‘need’ to continue reading, but that is mainly due to finding myself in a similar position as Layla, our female lead, not that long ago. But once Josh, the switched twin, appears on scene I had trouble putting the book down.
Most of us have at one point in life been on crossroads trying to figure out just how much you can or want to change your life and how much of the old you want or should take along. Reading about this couple’s struggle to make that decision at a time of also falling in love (again) was a really good read. Throw in some heat, a background mystery that draws you in ready for book two and this is a great start to a series.
It took me almost a full chapter to get into the story enough to actually ‘need’ to continue reading, but that is mainly due to finding myself in a similar position as Layla, our female lead, not that long ago. But once Josh, the switched twin, appears on scene I had trouble putting the book down.
Most of us have at one point in life been on crossroads trying to figure out just how much you can or want to change your life and how much of the old you want or should take along. Reading about this couple’s struggle to make that decision at a time of also falling in love (again) was a really good read. Throw in some heat, a background mystery that draws you in ready for book two and this is a great start to a series.
May 16, 2022
In Janice Maynard’s Staking a Claim,Texas Cattleman’s Club Rancher’s and Rivals Novel, we move into the world of upper crust cattle rancher’s society and lose ourselves to the changing lives of the Grandin family. With the health of their grandparents in transition, and new roles shaping around them, where do the Grandin grandchildren find their roles? Is there intrigue in a past misadventure in the family secrets? And what about the neighboring rancher’s twins, Joshua and Jordan? Layla, the overlooked granddaughter who is always supportive, dependable and present, realizes that in the new world order, she will have to find her place. Could that process of discovery involve one… or both… of the handsome twins that she grew up with? Delve into the answers for yourself, in Staking a Claim!
February 23, 2022
What a great start to the next TCC Series! I loved it from page one. Sucked me right in. Starts with sadness than a big secret is brought forth that has two families embroiled in a secret from the past. Layla is the black sheep of the Gradin family. She knows she can run the ranch just as much as her brother who is the preferred one. When she us set up with a guy she crushed on when they were young she goes but it us his twin brother. She knows all along but he doesn't confess. Finally she tells him she knows. Sparks fly high between them. This is a wonderfully written book with a fantastic storyline, that was a great start to this series!
April 28, 2022
I just love these Texas Cattlemen Club series! This first book in the Ranchers and Rivals series was a great beginning and was written by the lovely romance author, Janice Maynard.
I enjoyed this childhood-friends, switcheroo romance! The characters were all great, but all had some history to overcome. When Joshua Banks fills in on the date (which was supposed to be with his identical twin brother) with Layla Grandin, he realizes he wants to be there for her…which makes it really hard to come clean.
I enjoyed this quick read! Author Janice Maynard writes a wonderful storyline, great settings, and lovely romance! Can’t wait for the next book in the series!
I enjoyed this childhood-friends, switcheroo romance! The characters were all great, but all had some history to overcome. When Joshua Banks fills in on the date (which was supposed to be with his identical twin brother) with Layla Grandin, he realizes he wants to be there for her…which makes it really hard to come clean.
I enjoyed this quick read! Author Janice Maynard writes a wonderful storyline, great settings, and lovely romance! Can’t wait for the next book in the series!
May 1, 2022
Staking a Claim is part of the Texas Cattlemen's Club Ranchers and Rivals series. I really enjoyed this quick read about Layla and Joshua. Both are members of prominent ranching families and have known each other for years, including Joshua' twin brother Jordan. In the classic Twin Swapping Trick, Joshua finds himself on a date with Layla as a favor to Jordan. It doesn't take Layla too long to figure out she is with Joshua, however. Things get heated fast between them. They have both been burned before and go through some soul searching on the path to their future. I can't wait for the next installment!
April 19, 2022
In Staking a Claim by Janice Maynard, we return to Royal, Texas for another installment of The Texas Cattleman’s Club. Layla Grandin’s life is in turmoil after losing her Grandy and her family being served with a claim to the oil rights on their land. In a moment of weakness, she agrees to go on a date with a childhood friend. However, Joshua Banks agrees to swap with his twin brother, Jordan, and go on the date. Can Layla be tricked by their switch? Or, will she see through their plan and derail the fun? Can Layla and Joshua overcome their baggage and have a future together?
May 16, 2022
Two big families in Royal, Texas the Grandin and the Lattimore to kick off this new miniseries in the Texas Cattleman's Club Ranchers and Rivals. Josh and Layla have known each other since they were kids running around playing together but Josh has a twin Jordan Banks who Layla used to have a childhood crush on but once Josh gets roped into a twin swap with his brother its Jordan who. There is drama and family secrets but along the way Layla and Josh find real love this time around! I really enjoyed this story!
July 4, 2022
Layla Grandin is one of my all-time favorite heroines. She’s up-front, honest, and deeply caring. Joshua Banks is handsome and still reeling from being burned by his ex. He attempts to trick his old friend Layla into believing that he is his twin brother Jordan. Layla sees right through the charade and begins exploring the chemistry she remembers from grade school. Staking a Claim is a charming story of long-lost friends searching for themselves and finding one another in the process. I especially loved Layla in this story. She knows what she wants and she’s not afraid to go after it.
June 1, 2022
Joshua Banks and Layla Grandin are both coming out of relationships. He married the wrong person, and she put her trust in the wrong man. Knowing each other as children, and now grown adults they find themselves brought together because of a promise that Joshua takes his twin's place and escorts Layla to a concert. The life around them seems in chaos but they are drawn to each other, and having a friend with benefits seems like a good idea, or is it?
June 16, 2024
I love the Texas Cattlemen’s club series so far. This did not disappoint. We now know the mystery , intrigue, greed. Josh and Layla were destined to be together. Failed relations brought them together with a twin switch. They grew up together. I am interested to see where they go and what they do and hopefully continue their story . The sex was nice but would have been nice to have more about them
March 26, 2022
Awesome start to a new chapter in the Texas Cattlemen’s Club series of books. Josh and Layla both have past baggage but because of a twin trick, find themselves reconnecting and in spite of the mysteries and challenges of the present, developing their youthful friendship feelings into an adult forever relationship.
March 29, 2022
I loved this book and could hardly put it down. Josh and Layla are good strong characters with a past history when they were kids. When they meet again under false pretenses sparks fly but with two relationship wary people can they make I work or will trust and apprehensive feelings work against them? I’m looking forward to reading more about Layla’s siblings finding their HEA.
April 27, 2022
The book moves at a really slow pace so by the time it started to pick up I was losing interest. Joshua and Layla have chemistry that seems like they are much older than they are. Some things in the book were never tied up and I just wasn't sure how they were connected to the characters relationship. It was not a horrible read I was just expecting a little more.
May 11, 2022
Twins Jordan and Joshua Banks use to swap places when they were younger. Now Jordan asked Joshua to swap again to take Layla Grandin, to a concert. Joshua wasn’t sure he should. Against his better judgment he says yes. Layla, decides to go with Jordan just for fun. After her grandfather passed away and the breakup with her fiancé, she decided she can have a little fun. After all, she was best friends with the twins and had a crush on Jordan. Of course she’s outgrown that. So when Jordan picks her up, she immediate knows something isn’t right. She could always tell them apart. She decides to see if she’s wrong. They end up having a wonderful time, but she now knows it’s Joshua. He’s the quieter one, the kinder one. She’s very attracted to him, so when he asked her out again, she says yes. Joshua is attracted to Layla, which surprised him. He just got divorced, and doesn’t know what his future is, anymore . He doesn’t trust easily. Neither does Layla. He tells her the truth. She confesses that she knew it was him and not Jordan. Will they let the past stop them from getting to know each other again? Will they walk away? So much stuff is going on in their lives, they’re not sure they have a future. These are wonderful characters who need to learn to let go of the past. Learn to trust people again. Learn that everyone deserves a second chance at love. Janice Maynard does it again. She always brings it. Worth the read. Thank you for letting me read and review it.
April 27, 2022
A lighthearted story. It’s intriguing and will captivate you from the beginning. I loved the characters and the sizzling chemistry. I enjoyed their journey as they overcome insecurities. Its entertaining and a great start to the series. Looking forward to reading more.
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