Texas or not-Texas doesn't really matter if the setting isn't a character all on its own. If Texas is a character, absolutely love it. I love almost any setting that brings parts of the story to life in a different way. The stage is as important as the actors on it.
It's funny you mention Castle because at the moment, that is one of two shows I watch regularly!
Out of the two, though... It's a tough call.
Castle has Nathan Fillion, and I love seeing him in the role of Richard Castle. He tries to be suave and sometimes fails. He may not be romance-book-cover material, but he's got the charisma and the goofy charm to pull it off just a little bit. He's also smart, and in tune with those around him, giving him the ability to draw connections like a writer would. As easy as it would be for the writers of Castle to go a different way, they've maintained a kind of authenticity to the character of Richard Castle, I think.
On the other hand, I am watching "Once Upon A Time" and there's NOTHING better for me than allusions to well known fairy tales and fables. (I love Rumplestiltskin.)
I tend to have the same 'thing' with random bits of trivia. I have had a number of instances where a topic comes up and I will chime in with some random fact. It's always nice to run across a tidbit that has such potential, though! I'm looking forward to picking this up.
It is easy to imagine that a wolf wouldn't be into something like weight lifting to stay in shape! Being natural creatures, he stays in shape the 'natural' way. Being active doing the things he loves. I really enjoy that this is your stance, too!
Every good hero/heroine needs a stalwart companion, the quinessential sidekick, and I'm glad to hear your heroine has the support system she needs. The "lone wolf" archetype gets worn out and, I daresay, overused in a lot of fiction these days.