By the Bootstraps

By: Alexa Martin

Narrated by: Nicole Cash

“Alexa Martin has crafted a cowboy romance keeper!”—Lyla Sage, #1 New York Times bestselling author

A cowboy romance enthusiast discovers that everything’s bigger in Texas—even love—in this swoony novel from beloved author Alexa Martin.

Fueled by a love of romance novels, Luna Starr was destined for a life with her head in the clouds. Her delusional tendencies serve her well…or at least they used to. When life throws her a curveball, she decides it’s time to turn her cowboy fantasies into reality and purchases a tiny farm in Celestial, Texas. After all, don’t all heroines try to outrun grief?

Tate Jacobs hates cowboys, which is a small problem, considering his family happens to own the largest ranch in Celestial. Life might not have gone the way he wanted, but as head coach at his old high school and the town’s best (and only) handyman, he’s figured out how to stay busy and keep his head down—until the new girl in town shows up. Luna’s new property is a bad accident waiting to happen unless someone helps her with her DIY home renovations.

As Tate and Luna spend more time together fixing up her house, unexpected feelings and undeniable chemistry bubble to the surface. Luna might’ve moved to Celestial to make her cowboy dreams come true, but somewhere beneath the vast Texas skies, she discovers that love in the real world can be far better than she imagined.

Critic reviews

"By the Bootstraps is filled to the brim with heart, humor, and the most lovable cast of characters. Truly, the joy in this book is palpable. This is one of those books that'll burrow deep in your chest and warm you all the way through. Tate Jacobs take me away!"—Lyla Sage, #1 New York Times bestselling author

"By the Bootstraps is a small town romance that delivers all the charm and swoon! Tate and Luna are so much fun, and have such lovable, natural chemistry. I can’t wait for readers to find their new favorite home in the town of Celestial, Texas!"—Sarah Adams, New York Times bestselling author of In Your Dreams

"By the Bootstraps lassoed my heart and never let it go. Sexy, sweet, and punchy, Alexa Martin never fails to hit the perfect mix of humor and heart, and this is no exception. A refreshing addition to the cowboy romance era."—Tarah DeWitt, USA Today bestselling author of Left of Forever

“I always know my joy is safe in Alexa Martin’s hands, but By the Bootstraps builds an entire world for it. I never knew I needed the Texas cowboy version of Gilmore girls, but apparently wherever Alexa leads I will follow and happily!”—Ali Rosen, bestselling author of Unlikely Story

"Alexa Martin consistently delivers swoony stories brimming with humor and charm. My love for By the Bootstraps is Texas-sized and I can’t wait for readers to meet Luna and Tate!”—Suzanne Park, author of One Last Word

"Alexa Martin's star shines brightly with By the Bootstraps, the first book in her new Starlight Ridge series! A beautiful, tender love story full of so much optimism that only starting over can inspire. Luna and Tate have electric chemistry as they navigate their own personal healing journeys, and Luna's story of overcoming grief and finding herself in her home projects was stunningly done. The small town of Celestial, Texas felt so familiar that I wanted it to be a real place to visit! Full of a charming cast of supporting characters, By the Bootstraps is an absolute must read for those looking to continue on their cowboy romance journey!"—Danica Nava, USA Today Bestselling Author of Love is a War Song

"The perfect blend of steam, cowboys, women’s friendship, and Friday night lights. Fans of Lyla Sage and Lyssa Kay Adams will adore this charming series-starter from Martin."—Library Journal (starred review)

"Touching on the theme of found family, this slow-burn start to Martin's Starlight Ridge series will engross readers who enjoy a large cast of characters and small-town vibes.”—Booklist