One Week and Time's Up, Cowboy

Every writer feels a wee bit insecure right before a new release, especially when the book is part of a brand-new series that hasn’t been fully tested.

The Roped in Time series is different from my other cowboy western romances, and I want the books to do well—not just for me, but for Tule Publishing, too. They took a leap of faith by accepting my pitch for a western romantic comedy series, and I appreciate it so much. (A big shoutout to my editor, Sinclair Jayne, btw. She also writes for Tule and her books are amazing.)

Tule Publishing is known for its smalltown western romances with rugged cowboy heroes. The Roped in Time books are also set in a small town, with rugged cowboy (and cowgirl!) heroes, and they are romances first, comedies second. They aren’t a huge departure from my usual books, and they’re such fun to write!

I’m working on Book 3, Bad Boy Cowboy right now, and the bad boy hero believes the independent heroine is trying to kill him. (Spoiler: she’s not, although it did cross her mind.)

Time’s Up, Cowboy, the second book in the western romantic comedy series, releases on June 23^rd and I’ve been angsting about reviews, so imagine how thrilled I was when this one popped up:

Time’s Up, Cowboy by Paula Altenburg is an absolute triumph! If you are a fan of contemporary western romance packed with witty banter, great settings, and high stakes, this book is a must-read. I absolutely loved it! What really stood out was the incredible chemistry between the leads; the romantic tension is electric and practically leaps off the page. The unforgettable characters and fast-paced plot kept me completely hooked from the very first chapter to the last. This was such an entertaining read and a stellar addition to the series. If you love a romance that balances a great storyline with characters you can't help but root for, add this to your TBR immediately—it is a total must-read! I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. ~Sherri Babb, Goodreads Reviewer

A big thank you to Sherri Babb for making my day.

Review copies are available until June 16^th if you’re curious to see if your opinion matches hers, and you want to tell other readers about it.

Here’s a small preview:

She crossed her long legs at the ankle and made herself comfortable, bracing her back against the side wall of the van. “Tell me more about this Wild West theme park of yours. Why would a bride choose such a venue for a wedding?”

Her judgy tone raised the fine hairs on Jayce’s neck. Burning Scrub might have its quirks, but he’d grown up with it in his backyard, and it was as much his home as the ranch.

“Her great-grandfather established the town, then the family turned it into a theme park. People live there year-round. She’s the town doctor.”

Malika rolled that information around in her head and reached a conclusion. “And you’re one of her family’s servants.”

“I’m not”—he began, then thought yes, he probably was. Depending, of course, on one’s definition. “What makes you think I’m a servant?”

She raised an eyebrow. Her steady gaze slid down her trim nose. “You speak as if you’re not a part of this town or its founding family, and yet here you are, running an errand for them. Can I also assume you were paid to abduct me?”

“You weren’t ab—” he began, then decided he’d better leave that one alone. “I wasn’t paid to—” Okay, again yes, he probably was. “I’m a partner.” Of sorts. His armpits grew damp. “My family owns the valley with the only road into the town.”

Malika tipped her head back and stared intently through the skylight as if memorizing the clouds. It took him a moment to figure out that he’d been dismissed by Her Royal Highness, or whatever her status in her own country was.

You can read Chapter One here.

If you haven’t read the first book in the series, The Cowboy Contract, you can read Chapter One here.

And if you’re a fan of my Grand, Montana western cowboy romances, you can check them out here. The Strong Brothers will debut in 2027. Raiden Strong, whose story comes first, makes a brief appearance in The Cowboy’s Christmas Baby.

Speaking of Grand, Montana…

If you’ve stayed with me this far, then surprise! The Montana Doctor is on sale for 99 cents until July 16^th.

…[L]ove the small world feel to these books… If you love a good, solid romance with two people who question themselves while falling in love then The Montana Doctor is perfect for you. ~ Happily Ever After Romance, Goodreads Reviewer

You can read Chapter One here, and you’ll find the buy links for it here.

Happy reading!

Don’t forget:

Time’s Up, Cowboy, coming June 23^rd. (Maybe I’m still angsting a little.)