Life got in my way on this book quite a bit and it took me forever to finish. I'm glad I did because I loved Cooper and Marlee. As to be expected with this series there was plenty of sweetness, heat, and action! I do love this series and am looking forward to the next one.

I enjoyed it while I was reading it, but it was more forgettable than you might think when reading the back copy. This had the requisite western-charm cowboy type and beautiful stranger woman, and sparks fly immediately. She is in trouble, he helps her out, etc. etc.

The amazing stories of the Harper clan and their extended family of dear friends continues with the tale of a slightly misguided private investigator coming to town and stealing Cooper’s heart. The Heart of Texas series has become one of my favorites by Donna Grant and I am thrilled to see that she didn’t stop with the direct family, instead picking up with the best friends so we can continue to visit with these wonderful characters. The series is one that began over a decade ago in these characters lives and we have watched the boys grow into honorable and sexy men and find their mates, living through some harrowing experiences and dangerous dramas to find their HEAs. This story is one that reminds us that sometimes there is much more to the truth that either side can see and it requires a bit of digging to get the full story. I really enjoyed Marlee and Cooper’s story, even though there were some moments when I was afraid they wouldn’t find their way through the all the troubles to reach one another. I am dying to read the next story where Jace will hopefully get his own love story and HEA, then the series will continue with more and more of the sexy men in their little town.

Private Investigator Marlee Frampton has traveled to Clearview on a mission, she knows that she won’t be making any friends in town, but she is determined to find the kidnapped little boy that she is looking for, despite the chance of becoming the most hated person in town. Cooper Owens is in a bit of a rut in his life, finding himself at loose ends, when he runs across the most beautiful and enchanting female he has ever seen in the little town of Clearview. Immediately interested in more than being just friends, Cooper tries to befriend Marlee, but it becomes complicated when she admits that she has been following him and his friends in order to prove that the baby that the Harper’s have just adopted is really a kidnapped little boy she is there to find. Despite knowing that Marlee is there to try to tear apart his friends’ family, Cooper feels an instant connection to Marlee and to her mission. As Marlee and Cooper spend more time together investigating the kidnapping ring and trying to find the little boy, their connection only deepens and soon they are both so far in that there is no way to deny that they are in love. But there is a dangerous criminal that is stalking Marlee and if they are not careful they will never have a chance at happiness and a life together.

Marlee was an unexpected character and one that it took a little while to get to know and like; In the beginning you just aren’t sure if you are going to like her, mainly because she is there to destroy the new little family that you just don’t want to see have any more bad news. Once you truly understand that she is determined in her mission because of the past that ripped her life apart, you decide to cut her a little slack and can begin to like her and like her for Cooper. Marlee is a woman that has devoted her life for over a decade to her mission, to the detriment of all else in her life, and she won’t let anything stop her from staying true to her mission, even finding the love of her life. It was fascinating seeing her brain in action as she puzzled through all of the clues in order to break down the decades long, twisted, and twining mystery that cost her the life of her sister and the future they could have shared. Her strength and heart were undeniable and one of the best parts of her character, but I loved it when she finally let down her walls and found a way to let Cooper into her heart and life. Cooper is the best kind of guy, one that is always there for his friends, no matter what they might need, and that is always willing to lend a hand when needed, but he truly is at a loss in his life at the moment. He is missing the purpose he needs to make him truly happy. Once he gets drawn into the mystery of Marlee’s job, we begin to see him finding that calling and it becomes apparent quickly Marlee is the perfect completion to Cooper’s life. He is a strong, brave, and trustworthy man, without being annoyingly alpha about it. I loved seeing him find his balance as he fell in love with Marlee and it showed him that finding the perfect woman was the balance he always needed in his life.

Marlee came to town looking for kidnappers, definitely not for a cowboy to steal her heart, but what she found was the future that she never knew she wanted and needed. I loved this story every minute and the characters stole my attention every moment of the time I was in their world. Marlee is the type of woman that I imagine would make a perfect best friend, strong and driven, intelligent and incredible at her job, but willing to admit when she makes a mistake. Cooper is the perfect foil for Marlee’s driven and focused personality, being so laid-back in life, but dependable and willing to do whatever is needed to keep his friends and family happy. I loved seeing these two very different characters find their HEA together, even when you were skeptical in the beginning that they would get past their first introductions to one another. The passion between them runs high at all times and when they finally let their walls down and embrace one another as lovers, the fire burns hot enough to start a prairie fire. I was elated to get the chance to see Cooper, Marlee and their investigative team crack the case and bring down the kidnapping ring, even if there were several heartbreaking moments when we thought it might not end well at all. I am jonesing for the next story already and cannot wait for the chance to read it, even if it turns out not to be Jace’s story—though I REALLY hope it is. Another Grant masterpiece, undeniably.

Wasn't a fan of the story. I couldn't finish the story because of the child trafficking angle. Major trigger warnings in this book. It's unfortunate I couldn't finish it but sometimes you have to stop to save your mental health.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from NetGalley and I am voluntarily reviewing it.

This was a very intense story. There were times when I had to put it aside as the feelings of sorrow and despair that was upon me was heart wrenching. I adored how the author did such a fabulous job in bring me to such highs and lows; it was like riding a roller coaster.

Marlee Frampton left her job as a cop when her sister was killing for her unborn child. It became a cold case that would haunt her. Marlee became a P.I. looking for stolen babies and those that carelessly ripped the fetuses from the mothers before killing them. The black market for babies is one that is a dark place. The plot was one that was very troubling but compeling to keep reading.

Cooper Owens is attracted to the beautiful woman only to find out that she is looking into his friends adoption and it could be one of the babies that Marlee is looking for. Cooper and his friends are troubled by the thought of black market babies especially in their area of Texas. It is a daunting task that Marlee faces on a daily basis.

This book is a very gripping tale. I felt at times that I was right there with the characters. I adored the dual POV format. Also having prior couples and the entire group of friends making multiple appearances, felt like getting caught up with old friends.

While this is a part of a series (with repeat characters) you really don't have to read the prior stories to enjoy this one. I would definitely recommend it though for your full reading pleasure.

I would only recommend this to someone over the age of 18.

LOOKING FOR A COWBOY - Donna Grant

#5 in the Heart of Texas romance series

MORE THAN A ROMANCE - 4 stars

Plot - 4 stars - After a tragedy, Marlee has become a PI who specializes in finding missing/kidnapped babies. This brings her to the Rockin H ranch where Brice and Naomi have just adopted a son. Best friend Cooper gets involved, both with the business and with Marlee personally.

Writing - 4 stars - As always, I was immediately drawn into the story. The characters are warm and friendly, and the story caught my interest. It's comfortable to return to this location and revisit with people from former books.

Characters - 4.5 stars - Marlee is a strong and determined woman, focused on bringing justice to the families of missing babies. But she's also confident enough to recognize when she needs help. Cooper, on the other hand, is at loose ends, always willing to help out his friends. He's hot and sexy and nice--a wonderful hero. When Cooper and Marlee meet, they immediately begin a hot romance, pretty much love at first sight, but it's sweet and sexy and made sense.

Title - 3 stars - This is misleading since Marlee is looking for a kidnapper, not a cowboy. When she meets Cooper, however, she realizes she's found something that she'd been missing.

Cover - 3.5 stars - A nice cover, but nothing to specifically draw the eye. I do like that it's not the typical bare abs cover for this genre.

Overall - 4 stars - Overall, this was a very enjoyable read. I really like this series since it's not just a romance nor is it just a mystery--there's always something more meaty involved. In this case Marlee is tracking kidnapped babies, and the hunky guys in the neighborhood also get involved in catching the bad guys. Not only are there warm romance moments, but there is interesting dogged police work as well as very intense action scenes. Another great episode in what is a very enjoyable series.

Outstanding mystery that includes intense suspense an intrigue. Marlee is a strong and passionate PI who is searching for her sister’s murder. Cooper is a cowboy who is there for all his friends. People are murdering pregnant women for their babies. Cooper and Marlee hit it off immediately and it’s romantic in-spite of the storyline.

Looking for a Cowboy
Heart of Texas #5
Donna Grant
St. Martins Press, Oct 2020
368 pages
Contemporary Cowboy Romance
Provided by Pub and NetGalley
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Triggers: Fetal abduction, Child trafficking for illegal adoptions
The cover is attractive. It’s a photograph rather than a painting or drawing. I’m not sure how I feel about these photographed covers. We see a lot of them lately and somehow they just seem so bleak. This one has great colors, though, so I certainly won’t take anything away from it for being a photo. We do have that issue of the size of the title vs the size of the author’s name, but I won’t quibble over it since it’s so nicely placed right there in the middle of the big blue sky.
This was a story that was rather hard to read at times. On one hand, you had a young couple and extended family happy because they were finally getting a baby to love. Everyone was so happy for the young couple, so invested in the whole event. On the other hand, you have a young woman who hunts child traffickers. She is convinced that this adoption is illegal and is determined to stop it. She is a former police officer whose sister was the victim of a fetal abduction. She has done her research and the evidence has led her to this couple and this child.
But something isn’t right. Somewhere something has gone wrong. And someone keeps watching her and making attempts on her life. Cooper and his friends decide to help Marlee stop these people. And Cooper is determined to keep Marlee safe. If he can stay alive himself.
The people Marlee and Cooper were dealing with had no scruples, no conscience. All they wanted was money and they were willing to kill anyone who got in their way in the slightest. It made it a rough story at times, but it was a satisfying one in the end. Recommended.

A beautiful stranger has come to Clearview, asking questions that are nobody’s business. Cooper Owens also wasn’t born yesterday. He knows that this out-of-towner is hiding a dark secret of her own. Much as he knows he should head in the other direction, he can’t make himself turn away. . .

P.I. Marlee Frampton always wanted to lead a nice quiet life, working as a cop in her local police department. But that dream came to an end when her sister was murdered—and her baby kidnapped. Now Marlee’s come to Texas to investigate the Harpers, who may be linked to shady adoption agencies.

Great characters and good chemistry. The underlying storyline is a bit dark, this is not just a light hearted romance. However their journey to discovering the truth is interesting and would suit anyone who wants something more than just a cowboy romance story. A horrible mystery brings them together and the twists and turns along the way is what keeps this book interesting.

We have been following up with Cooper since the second book and I was a little surprised when the previous book didn't focus on him or Jace.

In Looking for a Cowboy we get to know a little more about Cooper and we meet Marlee, a P.I. who has been investigating a series of murders and child abductions.

I have to say I wasn't very invested in the story this time around, I didn't really feel the chemistry between the characters nor the high stakes that the story warranted. It felt too insta lovey for my taste and I just didn't enjoy their journey.

I loved seeing everyone else though and I'm still exited for Jace's story.

Looking for a Cowboy by Donna Grant was another hit from this author. There are certain authors that you can trust to bring you a good read and Ms. Grant is one of them!

Cooper and Marlee have a rocky start, but when they band together, the job gets done. Immediate chemistry. I wish the ending was longer with more information about Marlee's sister's baby.

I adore this series and It has felt like forever waiting for Cooper's story. I wasn't sure whom would win Cooper's heart but P.I. Marlee Frampton was perfect for him. I quite like this series and love the fact that the Harper's and the East's always wade in when one of theirs has trouble come their way.

For Marlee her reason for her drive is heartbreaking and understandable for why she's so determined to get answers. When Cooper hears of the issue it is not surprising he jumps to help Marlee.

They had great chemistry together and its always great to see all the friends come together to help one another out. Donna Grant has a knack for finding the right balance between love and suspense. I can't wait for more from this series as there still is a few of them left to find love.

This was an intense, fast-paced romantic suspense. It kept me reading long into the night and early morning because it was so hard to put down. This is the first book in the series that I have read but I didn't feel like I had to read the others to be able to follow the story.

Cooper had grown up in Clearview, Texas. It was his home and where he had roots. He had a great group of friends who watched out for each other and had each other's backs. Marlee showed up in town, a PI looking for some bad guys and hoping to eventually solve her sister's murder and find her niece. Cooper was smitten and Marlee couldn't resist.

There are so many layers to this story so I won't give away the details but suffice it to say if you like romance, along with a good dose of suspense, you will likely enjoy this story. There were a few f-bombs and some graphic details of their sex which I don't particularly enjoy but the story was good and engaging.

I was given an arc copy of this book and I willingly offer my honest review.

Serious warnings for violence & murder against pregnant woman, shady adoption agencies, stolen babies, issues with infertility

It was such a mistake to read this out of order. I only have the first book but these books are considered standalones so I thought I’d be ok. Three chapters in and it was definitely not ok. So many cameos from characters in the previous books, there was just too much name dropping, and backstory and it made everything a bit convoluted and very confusing. Now, this was probably my own fault for not reading the other books first but the plot itself is standalone and once I finally sorted out who was who, I started to enjoy it a bit more.

This is definitely more a suspense story than a cowboy story. And boy was it a lot darker than I thought it would be. That happy, bright cover is very misleading and this book definitely needs to come with a serious warning. The blurb says that her sister is murdered and her baby is kidnapped. What it doesn’t say is that her pregnant sister is grabbed off the street, her baby cut out of her and then her throat cut. Now I don’t consider this a spoiler because it happens in the prologue and it also would have been nice to know this before I started reading as it’s constantly brought up again and again. There were quite a few times that reading this book made me feel very uncomfortable and I’m not someone who’s easily triggered. So be very, very careful before you pick it up.

The actual suspense and mystery itself thought I thought was well done. I appreciated the grit and determination Marlee showed in her work, it took a lot of guts to do what she did and I loved how all the characters acknowledged that. I also liked how genuine and open Cooper was in his pursuit of her, how he was clear about his feelings right from the start even when Marlee was more guarded. He is just a really good guy, very caring of his friends and always eager to help whoever needs it.

I was eager to see how they would be in a relationship – but then when they finally did get together, I found that whatever chemistry they had kind of fizzled. They go on one date and end up in bed together. Have sex multiple times without a condom (in a book about shady adoption agencies and people struggling to have babies arrrgghh), and even with all that I just could not see any heat between them. Even when, a couple of days later, they start talking about love, I just didn’t see it and I found myself more interested in the suspense part of the book than the romance part.

I did finish because I was eager to see how it would all end up and the suspense part of Looking for a Cowboy was really well done. I just didn’t believe in the main couple. I will definitely read more Donna Grant (I’ve heard her paranormal stuff is fantastic and has dragons), her writing and plot were great, I just was not fond of the romance this time round.

Looking for a Cowboy by Donna Grant is the 5th book in the Heart of Texas series and is a plot-driven romantic suspense page-turner. Right off the bat, I have to say that it was a hard subject to read about women being murdered and their babies being kidnapped. It wasn’t easy and I needed to compartmentalize it. The protagonist Marlee Frampton, has made it her life mission to find her niece and the latest case has led her to Clearview, Texas. Clearview is the home of Cooper Owens and the new woman in town intrigues him. When his friends are made suspects in a possible shady adoption, he gathers as much information he can get and decides she needs his support to make things right.

I really liked this story because the author has created a family with the men in Clearview and they are there for each other. Cooper Owens has true friends with the Easts and Harpers, and they’ve had each other’s backs time after time. Finding themselves in the thick of it again, they want to do what’s right. Cooper is helping Marlee but also can’t fight the attraction for this woman. Marlee also feels the same and wonders if he could be the one to bring her life some normalcy. However, this may be the right guy at the wrong time situation. Both realized when their lives were in danger, that life and love is more precious and they shouldn’t let it slip away. The mystery, the suspense and this close-knit family, made this a page turner for me and I had to figure out how it was all going to end. It is a story that can be read as a standalone and you can easily follow the story. Donna Grant is an author that writes different genres and does it well. I love this series and Looking for the Cowboy is one that can’t be missed.

Marlee is a P.I. who is on the lookout for a company who kills pregnant women and kidnaps the baby and her trail is leading her to Clearview. Cooper has his eyes on the newcomer and is less then thrilled to find out she had motives. When she reveals that she thinks someone close to him may have adopted a child from this certain company they work to find out of its true and try find and take down the company together.

There was so much to enjoy about this book. I thought it was interesting the path of life Marlee took. After what happened to her sister she did everything she can to find who might be behind the killing of her sister and kidnapping of her niece. She refused to back down which got her in less then ideal situations and now she's finally closing in on finding the company. Now theres Cooper a guy who might have ties or something and she used him for a moment to get closer to what she wants and now she's in for a different thing when the who clearly have an attraction. After everything is said and done they must decide what to do with connection they have, she's only passing though with this case. Another think I loved about this book was also getting the other side with a worker for this mama killing baby napping business and seeing how sinister he was. I just loved getting his perspective. This was a pretty great book and overall I enjoyed reading it.

This story has a little of everything, sweet romance, sexy overbearing and frustrating alpha males and a beautiful woman who has the right heart and spirit. Thoroughly enjoying and entertaining.

Not what I was expecting from Donna Grant. This is definitely much softer than her other genre based on dragons and a fantasy based world. I love cowboys and this type of read with rugged alpha men whose women are also not doormats. Definitely will give more like this from her a chance.

Uff, this storyline is made up of nightmares. It's gruesome but also a big part of our reality with human trafficking. This has to be one of the basest and cruelest forms. But Marlee and Cooper are lockjawed on discovering these beastly traffickers and they don't stop till they do. It is the worst when it happens to someone you know and even worse when someone you know is involved.