Debbie Macomber’s Heart of Texas series, a collection of novels set in the small, fictional town of Promise, Texas, offers a rich exploration of life in a close-knit community. This article will guide you through each book in the series, highlighting the unique atmosphere and themes Macomber skillfully weaves through her narratives.
Beginning with “Lonesome Cowboy” and concluding with “Return To Promise,” the series takes readers on a journey through the lives of its varied characters, each with their own struggles and triumphs. Macomber’s storytelling brings to life the essence of small-town Texas, painting a vivid picture of the community’s values, traditions, and the strong bonds that connect its people.
Join us in this article as we journey through the ‘Heart of Texas’ series, discovering the heartwarming and sometimes poignant stories that make up the fabric of this charming Texan town.
See also: Debbie Macomber’s New Beginnings Series in Order.
Debbie Macomber Heart of Texas Series in Order
- Lonesome Cowboy (1998)
- Texas Two-Step (1998)
- Caroline’s Child (1998)
- Dr. Texas (1998)
- Nell’s Cowboy (1998)
- Lone Star Baby (1998)
- Promise, Texas (1999)
- Return To Promise (2000)
Similar Authors
- “The Mistletoe Promise” by Richard Paul Evans – This novel is set around the holiday season and follows the story of two people who enter into a pact for companionship during the holidays. It captures the spirit of small-town connections and the warmth of developing relationships, akin to the themes in Macomber’s series.
- “At Home in Mitford” by Jan Karon – The first book in the Mitford series, it introduces readers to the charming small town of Mitford, North Carolina, and its array of quirky and endearing characters. Much like the ‘Heart of Texas’ series, it focuses on community life, personal struggles, and the bonds between neighbors. See the Mitford Series in Order.
- The “Blackberry Island” series by Susan Mallery – Set on a picturesque island, this book explores the lives of three women, each facing her challenges and emotional journeys. The novel’s focus on friendship, healing, and the power of community echoes the themes found in Macomber’s Texas-based series.
Most Recommended Books
- Lone Star Baby (4.14 Goodreads score)
- Dr. Texas (4.10 Goodreads score)
- Nell’s Cowboy (4.09 Goodreads score)
- Promise, Texas (4.08 Goodreads score)
- Caroline’s Child (4.08 Goodreads score)
Awards
Debbie Macomber was honored with the RITA Award in 2003 for her work “The Christmas Basket,” earned a fan-voted romance award in 2005, and has been a three-time recipient of the B. Dalton Award.
Upcoming Releases
Book Summaries
Lonesome Cowboy
Savannah is determined to save her family ranch after losing her parents. To make ends meet, she sells flowers and becomes fascinated by the ghost town of Bitter End, where rare and valuable roses grow. Despite her brother's warning to stay away, Savannah's curiosity leads her to pick up a mysterious hitchhiker who not only knows about the roses but also catches her eye with his good looks.
Texas Two-Step
Ellie runs a small grocery shop with her family. When her father passes away and her mother disappears, Ellie's life is thrown into chaos. Thankfully, her childhood friend Glen is there to support her, but things take an unexpected turn when he kisses her. Confused about their relationship, Ellie can't seem to forget the lingering memory of that sweet kiss.
Caroline’s Child
Caroline is a single mother. She has been raising her daughter on her own since the father left when she was pregnant. Caroline has kept the identity of the father a secret to avoid gossip in her small town. She has always had feelings for her childhood friend Grady, but she fears that revealing her secret will hurt him deeply.
Dr. Texas
Jane Dickinson is a young doctor from California who has recently graduated and is working at a clinic in Promise, Texas. She plans to stay for just a couple of years before returning home. Cal Patterson, known as Mr. Grouch, was left at the altar by his fiancée from another state and is still struggling to move on. Unfortunately, Jane reminds him of his almost-bride in various ways.
Nell’s Cowboy
Nell is a widow who has been managing her ranch alone. When famous author Travis Grant arrives in town, their first meeting is unpleasant. However, as they spend more time together, their feelings for each other begin to blossom. Despite their rocky start, Nell ends up allowing Travis to stay on her ranch.
Lone Star Baby
"Lone Star Baby" is a story about Wade McMillen, a minister who finds himself drawn to a young pregnant woman named Amy Thornton. Wade is torn between his role as a man and his duty as a man of God. Amy, on the other hand, seeks Wade's support and love as she tries to start a new life for herself and her baby.
Promise, Texas
In the heart of Texas, the town of Promise is filled with people who understand the importance of family, friends, and community. Some residents have deep roots in the area, like the Westons and Pattersons, who have been ranching for generations. Others, like Annie Applegate, are newcomers who open a bookstore in town. Annie takes an unconventional approach to love by marrying a widowed veterinarian for the sake of his children, only to discover that marriage can lead to true love. In Promise, everyone has a story to tell. Like any other town, they experience both triumphs and tragedies, joy and sorrow. Secrets are also a part of this town, just like any other. But in a place like Promise, you are never alone, no matter the circumstances.
Return To Promise
Cal Patterson and his wife, Jane, have always believed that Promise is the perfect place to build a life together. However, their happiness is threatened when a young woman sets her sights on Cal. As disagreements and doubts about their marriage arise, Jane decides to leave with their children and return to her childhood home in California. Now alone on his ranch, Cal must confront his true desires and priorities. Meanwhile, Jane is also questioning the importance of Promise and the strength of their marriage.
