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Texas Trails #4
A Ranger's Trail
This is the fourth book in a six-book series about four generations of the Morgan family living, fighting, and thriving amidst a turbulent Texas history spanning from 1845 to 1896. Although a series, each book can be read on its own.
In 1875 Buck Morgan rode into Mason County with the Texas Rangers to quell the violence stirred up by the actions a vigilantly mob. The Hoo Doo (or bad luck) War erupted as suspected cattle rustlers were murdered by an angry mob. Former ranger, Scott Cooley, gathers a gang to seek vengeance for the murders.
Suspected of cattle rustling, Leta Derrick’s husband was murdered by the mob a year earlier. Now she is siding with the rogue ranger, Scott Cooley and refuses to help Buck Morgan stem the tide of violence.
Will their actions fuel the fire of vengeance' Or will Buck and Leta strike an accord that leads to more than just peace'
In 1875 Buck Morgan rode into Mason County with the Texas Rangers to quell the violence stirred up by the actions a vigilantly mob. The Hoo Doo (or bad luck) War erupted as suspected cattle rustlers were murdered by an angry mob. Former ranger, Scott Cooley, gathers a gang to seek vengeance for the murders.
Suspected of cattle rustling, Leta Derrick’s husband was murdered by the mob a year earlier. Now she is siding with the rogue ranger, Scott Cooley and refuses to help Buck Morgan stem the tide of violence.
Will their actions fuel the fire of vengeance' Or will Buck and Leta strike an accord that leads to more than just peace'
288 pages, Paperback
First published January 20, 2012
7 people are currently reading
193 people want to read
About the author
Darlene Franklin
185 books104 followersAward-winning author and speaker Darlene Franklin lives in cowboy country—Oklahoma and loves writing about the American West. Oklahoma also has the benefit of being the home to her son, his wife, and their four beautiful children. Darlene loves music, needlework, reading and reality tv. Talia, a Lynx point Siamese cat, proudly claims Darlene as her person. Darlene is the author of seventeen contracted books and novellas, as well as several hundred short pieces. Two of her books have finaled in ACFW’s Book of the Year (now the Carol award) contest: her novella, Dressed in Scarlet, and her cozy mystery, A String of Murders.
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Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews
December 17, 2012
Darlene Franklin's 'A Ranger's Trail' is a historical romance worth reading. It's set in a time of Texas' history that I knew very little about. Although this is part of a series, I read it as a stand-alone. I've already added two other books from this series onto my Kindle.
July 5, 2024
Cool, if not extra cool
March 11, 2012
A Ranger's Trail by Darlene Franklin
Book 4: Texas Trails: A Morgan Family Series
I have enjoyed all the books in this series so far. They all do have romance but that is more of a background to the historical part of the book. This book has The Mason County range war or “Hoo Doo” war. When some Anglos were acquitted of cattle rustling the German's took it into their own hands to meter out justice. When they kill Anglo Tim Williamson though, Scott Cooley resigns from the Texas Ranger begins taking revenge on the men who killed his friend.
In the midst of this battle we meet up with Buck Morgan, son of Jud and Wande. Buck is the oldest son and his father would like him to take over the ranch but Buck has wanderlust and it's let him to become a Texas Ranger. His latest assignment is to find the group of men responsible for the hanging of Derrick Denning. Buck goes to the widow, Leta Denning, to find more information and soon feels God's call to help her out. She was left with her six year old son and teenage brother. Buck finds himself caught between a woman he is starting to care for and that his own relatives may have been involved in the war.
Leta Denning don't want to trust anyone but she finds herself depending on Buck more and more. He has helped around the ranch and trained a horse for her son. Leta is full of hatred and unforgiveness towards the Germans who took her husbands life. She does not realize how her hate has been planted into Ricky and Andy until it's too late.
There are so many side stories as in all the books and lots of adventure. There are storms and cattle rustling but most of all is the strength of how much hate prejudice can drive into people hearts until they just don't see the truth.
These books are stand alone but if you enjoy series and want the whole picture I would suggest reading the series from book one.
1- Lone Star Trail by Darlene Franklin
2- Captive Trail by Susan Page Davis
3- The Long Trail Home by Vickie McDonough
Two more books follow this one; A Cowgirl's Trail and End of the Trail (April & June releases)
**Received from NetGalley for review.
Book 4: Texas Trails: A Morgan Family Series
I have enjoyed all the books in this series so far. They all do have romance but that is more of a background to the historical part of the book. This book has The Mason County range war or “Hoo Doo” war. When some Anglos were acquitted of cattle rustling the German's took it into their own hands to meter out justice. When they kill Anglo Tim Williamson though, Scott Cooley resigns from the Texas Ranger begins taking revenge on the men who killed his friend.
In the midst of this battle we meet up with Buck Morgan, son of Jud and Wande. Buck is the oldest son and his father would like him to take over the ranch but Buck has wanderlust and it's let him to become a Texas Ranger. His latest assignment is to find the group of men responsible for the hanging of Derrick Denning. Buck goes to the widow, Leta Denning, to find more information and soon feels God's call to help her out. She was left with her six year old son and teenage brother. Buck finds himself caught between a woman he is starting to care for and that his own relatives may have been involved in the war.
Leta Denning don't want to trust anyone but she finds herself depending on Buck more and more. He has helped around the ranch and trained a horse for her son. Leta is full of hatred and unforgiveness towards the Germans who took her husbands life. She does not realize how her hate has been planted into Ricky and Andy until it's too late.
There are so many side stories as in all the books and lots of adventure. There are storms and cattle rustling but most of all is the strength of how much hate prejudice can drive into people hearts until they just don't see the truth.
These books are stand alone but if you enjoy series and want the whole picture I would suggest reading the series from book one.
1- Lone Star Trail by Darlene Franklin
2- Captive Trail by Susan Page Davis
3- The Long Trail Home by Vickie McDonough
Two more books follow this one; A Cowgirl's Trail and End of the Trail (April & June releases)
**Received from NetGalley for review.
May 30, 2022
Setting: Begins August 1874 (the prologue) and 1875 (story proper), Mason County, Texas. The story focuses on the "range wars" or Texas, and one specific historic one in Mason County. Real newspaper articles, letters, and diary entries provide a great historic setting. Real, as well as fictional, geographical locations throughout Texas are referenced and such issues as running a ranch, being a Texas Ranger, and going to school are shown well in this historical setting. The problem of ethnic prejudice is also a main part of the story, without being dismissed by the good characters, as I so often see in Christian fiction.
Plot: Fairly well written; I didn't want to strangle anyone--actually, I had few strong emotions for anything, although there are certain scenes and circumstances that should have tugged at my heartstrings a bit more. The story just doesn't seem to "pop out" for some reason. The writing isn't bad--at least, there's nothing definable as being bad. I just felt I was a distant bystander. Buck, for instance: he's a quiet, serious man, and this is consistently shown throughout the book. However, although it's shown, his quiet nature for some reason is not ... expressed, for lack of a better word. We are privy to his thoughts, we know his feelings, and his actions are reasonable to his character and beliefs. Yet somehow ... he is bland. I guess his interaction with and reaction to his surroundings, acquaintances, etc., isn't expressed very strongly.
In addition, the plot is sometimes hard to follow respecting who's on what side. There are the Germans ... the Anglos ... and the rangers ... and the former ranger. I had a hard time remembering what Scott Cooley was after, whom he wanted to kill, and who hated whom and for what reason. I think this is a result of the author wanting to avoid a black-and-white "good" side and "bad" side, which I appreciate, but things aren't described very clearly.
Romance: Throughout the story, it is a good side plot and motivator, but not overpowering the plot. I was expecting it to have a more major role in the climax and/or conclusion, but it ends up having nothing to do with the resolution of the plot. In fact, everyone involved could have done just fine--as it is portrayed--without a romantic resolution. It didn't bother me--I rather liked the low-key romance, as the plot revolved on the range war and the opposing sides.
After reading (and disliking) the first Darlene Franklin book in this series, I was a bit worried, but this was plenty more enjoyable. Recommended for anyone who wants to read about an aspect of little-known Texas history.
Plot: Fairly well written; I didn't want to strangle anyone--actually, I had few strong emotions for anything, although there are certain scenes and circumstances that should have tugged at my heartstrings a bit more. The story just doesn't seem to "pop out" for some reason. The writing isn't bad--at least, there's nothing definable as being bad. I just felt I was a distant bystander. Buck, for instance: he's a quiet, serious man, and this is consistently shown throughout the book. However, although it's shown, his quiet nature for some reason is not ... expressed, for lack of a better word. We are privy to his thoughts, we know his feelings, and his actions are reasonable to his character and beliefs. Yet somehow ... he is bland. I guess his interaction with and reaction to his surroundings, acquaintances, etc., isn't expressed very strongly.
In addition, the plot is sometimes hard to follow respecting who's on what side. There are the Germans ... the Anglos ... and the rangers ... and the former ranger. I had a hard time remembering what Scott Cooley was after, whom he wanted to kill, and who hated whom and for what reason. I think this is a result of the author wanting to avoid a black-and-white "good" side and "bad" side, which I appreciate, but things aren't described very clearly.
Romance: Throughout the story, it is a good side plot and motivator, but not overpowering the plot. I was expecting it to have a more major role in the climax and/or conclusion, but it ends up having nothing to do with the resolution of the plot. In fact, everyone involved could have done just fine--as it is portrayed--without a romantic resolution. It didn't bother me--I rather liked the low-key romance, as the plot revolved on the range war and the opposing sides.
After reading (and disliking) the first Darlene Franklin book in this series, I was a bit worried, but this was plenty more enjoyable. Recommended for anyone who wants to read about an aspect of little-known Texas history.
November 5, 2019
Good history about a war with which I was unfamiliar. Enjoyable read.
February 15, 2012
Thoroughly enjoyed this book! I read it in about 2 days - which says good things about the novel, but not so good things for my housekeeping!
A RANGER'S TRAIL is the 4th book in the Texas Trails series. I read the first but missed the 2nd and 3rd. Turns out not to matter...I will read the others at some point, but each is a stand-alone story so I haven't missed any important information. If you haven't read any of this series it's okay to start here (though reading the first would probably help with understanding the Morgan family better).
In this installment, Buck Morgan is a Texas Ranger tasked with capturing the men who murdered Leta Denning's husband. It's the middle of the Mason County War, a documented troublesome time in Texas history. Anglo and German citizens faced-off over the heated issue of cattle rustling. Some Anglos were caught "rustling" - they argued it was not rustling. The courts fined most of the men. In the "real" historical events, some citizens (mostly German) formed a vigilante mob and exacted the justice they felt was due. One of the men killed was a good friend of Texas Ranger Scott Cooley. Cooley resigned from the Rangers and set off on his own mission of vengeance. Violence followed with Anglos and Germans killing each other. Eventually the war ended.
This novel deals with a fictional victim of the original court case, Derrick Denning, and his family. Widow Leta Denning vows to avenge her husband's death yet isn't able to identify the members of the lynch mob. Until Buck Morgan questions her. Buck is attracted to Leta but doesn't tell her that he is from a German family. As Leta remembers she writes a list of the members of the mob - and they are all German. She also feels attraction for Buck. How could they possibly have a relationship - she's Anglo, he's German? Plus, as a Texas Ranger, Buck often "disappears" - can Leta trust him?
Add to this Leta's brother, Andy, who also disappears frequently. Is he just running wild or is he involved with Cooley? Buck's cousin Henry also seems to be involved in the German mob. Ricky, Leta's son, wants a horse of his own. Buck agrees to break his colt, Shadow, but Ricky is impatient. A hurrican strikes, damaging Mason county ranches but also devastating the coastal region where Buck's parents live. Seems like God keeps piling on the troubles. Can Buck and Leta stick to their faith and come through the trouble unscathed?
A RANGER'S TRAIL is full of action and emotion. Starting with the lynching in chapter 1 and continuing with cattle rustling, shootings, and Comanchero raids. This is a novel for anyone who enjoys historical romance or westerns.
A RANGER'S TRAIL is the 4th book in the Texas Trails series. I read the first but missed the 2nd and 3rd. Turns out not to matter...I will read the others at some point, but each is a stand-alone story so I haven't missed any important information. If you haven't read any of this series it's okay to start here (though reading the first would probably help with understanding the Morgan family better).
In this installment, Buck Morgan is a Texas Ranger tasked with capturing the men who murdered Leta Denning's husband. It's the middle of the Mason County War, a documented troublesome time in Texas history. Anglo and German citizens faced-off over the heated issue of cattle rustling. Some Anglos were caught "rustling" - they argued it was not rustling. The courts fined most of the men. In the "real" historical events, some citizens (mostly German) formed a vigilante mob and exacted the justice they felt was due. One of the men killed was a good friend of Texas Ranger Scott Cooley. Cooley resigned from the Rangers and set off on his own mission of vengeance. Violence followed with Anglos and Germans killing each other. Eventually the war ended.
This novel deals with a fictional victim of the original court case, Derrick Denning, and his family. Widow Leta Denning vows to avenge her husband's death yet isn't able to identify the members of the lynch mob. Until Buck Morgan questions her. Buck is attracted to Leta but doesn't tell her that he is from a German family. As Leta remembers she writes a list of the members of the mob - and they are all German. She also feels attraction for Buck. How could they possibly have a relationship - she's Anglo, he's German? Plus, as a Texas Ranger, Buck often "disappears" - can Leta trust him?
Add to this Leta's brother, Andy, who also disappears frequently. Is he just running wild or is he involved with Cooley? Buck's cousin Henry also seems to be involved in the German mob. Ricky, Leta's son, wants a horse of his own. Buck agrees to break his colt, Shadow, but Ricky is impatient. A hurrican strikes, damaging Mason county ranches but also devastating the coastal region where Buck's parents live. Seems like God keeps piling on the troubles. Can Buck and Leta stick to their faith and come through the trouble unscathed?
A RANGER'S TRAIL is full of action and emotion. Starting with the lynching in chapter 1 and continuing with cattle rustling, shootings, and Comanchero raids. This is a novel for anyone who enjoys historical romance or westerns.
August 23, 2013
About the Book:
This is the fourth book in a six-book series about four generations of the Morgan family living, fighting, and thriving amidst a turbulent Texas history spanning from 1845 to 1896. Although a series, each book can be read on its own.
In 1875 Buck Morgan rode into Mason County with the Texas Rangers to quell the violence stirred up by the actions a vigilantly mob. The Hoo Doo (or bad luck) War erupted as suspected cattle rustlers were murdered by an angry mob. Former ranger, Scott Cooley, gathers a gang to seek vengeance for the murders.
Suspected of cattle rustling, Leta Derrick's husband was murdered by the mob a year earlier. Now she is siding with the rogue ranger, Scott Cooley and refuses to help Buck Morgan stem the tide of violence.
Will their actions fuel the fire of vengeance? Or will Buck and Leta strike an accord that leads to more than just peace?
About the Author:
Award-winning author and speaker Darlene Franklin lives in cowboy country—Oklahoma and loves writing about the American West. Oklahoma also has the benefit of being the home to her son, his wife, and their four beautiful children. Darlene loves music, needlework, reading and reality TV. Talia, a Lynx point Siamese cat, proudly claims Darlene as her person. Darlene is the author of seventeen contracted books and novellas, as well as several hundred short pieces. Two of her books have finaled in ACFW’s Book of the Year (now the Carol award) contest: her novella, Dressed in Scarlet, and her cozy mystery, A String of Murders.
My Review:
Leta and her husband Derrick are talking about what they are going to get their son and Leta's brother for Christmas. As they are talking over the plans for the new baby, they are interrupted by yelling and the sounds of horses. As threats come up from outside, Derrick leaves the safety of his home and his family. Leta and her son watch as her Derrick is hung in the front yard.
Buck was coming home with what he thought was good news. As he gets home, he's happy to tell his family that he is the new ranger of Mason County. But they see this as good.
Leta has been struggling with the death of her husband and infant, the last thing she wants is a ranger at her house. When Buck comes in, he's staring down the end of a double barrel. After letting her know he was just here for the story, she starts calming down. As she tells him, he understands that this was a murder and this man was wrongly killed. Will he be able to bring this mans death to justice? Or is death going to be in vain?
**Disclosure** This book was sent to me free of charge for my honest review from MP Newsroom.
This is the fourth book in a six-book series about four generations of the Morgan family living, fighting, and thriving amidst a turbulent Texas history spanning from 1845 to 1896. Although a series, each book can be read on its own.
In 1875 Buck Morgan rode into Mason County with the Texas Rangers to quell the violence stirred up by the actions a vigilantly mob. The Hoo Doo (or bad luck) War erupted as suspected cattle rustlers were murdered by an angry mob. Former ranger, Scott Cooley, gathers a gang to seek vengeance for the murders.
Suspected of cattle rustling, Leta Derrick's husband was murdered by the mob a year earlier. Now she is siding with the rogue ranger, Scott Cooley and refuses to help Buck Morgan stem the tide of violence.
Will their actions fuel the fire of vengeance? Or will Buck and Leta strike an accord that leads to more than just peace?
About the Author:
Award-winning author and speaker Darlene Franklin lives in cowboy country—Oklahoma and loves writing about the American West. Oklahoma also has the benefit of being the home to her son, his wife, and their four beautiful children. Darlene loves music, needlework, reading and reality TV. Talia, a Lynx point Siamese cat, proudly claims Darlene as her person. Darlene is the author of seventeen contracted books and novellas, as well as several hundred short pieces. Two of her books have finaled in ACFW’s Book of the Year (now the Carol award) contest: her novella, Dressed in Scarlet, and her cozy mystery, A String of Murders.
My Review:
Leta and her husband Derrick are talking about what they are going to get their son and Leta's brother for Christmas. As they are talking over the plans for the new baby, they are interrupted by yelling and the sounds of horses. As threats come up from outside, Derrick leaves the safety of his home and his family. Leta and her son watch as her Derrick is hung in the front yard.
Buck was coming home with what he thought was good news. As he gets home, he's happy to tell his family that he is the new ranger of Mason County. But they see this as good.
Leta has been struggling with the death of her husband and infant, the last thing she wants is a ranger at her house. When Buck comes in, he's staring down the end of a double barrel. After letting her know he was just here for the story, she starts calming down. As she tells him, he understands that this was a murder and this man was wrongly killed. Will he be able to bring this mans death to justice? Or is death going to be in vain?
**Disclosure** This book was sent to me free of charge for my honest review from MP Newsroom.
July 28, 2012
Darlene Franklin in her new book, “A Ranger’s Trail” Book Four in The Texas Trail Series published by River North Fiction Division of Moody Publishers takes us back to Texas in 1875.
From the Back Cover: A widow vows to seek vengeance
A Texas Ranger swears to uphold the law
A blood feud splits Mason County in half
When Leta Denning’s husband is murdered at the beginning of the Mason County War, she wants one thing: revenge. Buck Morgan, a Texas Ranger called in to investigate, has ties to a German family involved in Denning’s death.
Buck’s ability to remain impartial and bring the murderer to justice has Leta anxious. As she struggles to keep her ranch afloat, Buck offers to help – all the while searching for the truth. A tentative trail emerges … one forged by respect and bound by vengeance and forgiveness.
Doubt meets faith, and fear gives way to faith in the Morgan family.
Get ready for excitement! A Texas Ranger, a widow rancher who is having trouble running her ranch, a rogue Texas Ranger and Range Wars; what a combination. Ms. Franklin expertly weaves in history at the beginning of each chapter to give us a better idea of what is going on. And once again “A Ranger’s Trail” is a romance set against the backdrop of Texas. This story deals with dealing with past trauma that is causing bad decisions and running away from who you really are. “A Ranger’s Trail” is all about families and relationships and that is what makes this book a winner. I enjoyed this book a lot and am looking forward to the next one.
If you would like to listen to interviews with other authors and professionals please go to www.kingdomhighlights.org where they are available On Demand.
To listen to 24 hours non-stop Christian music please visit our internet radio station www.kingdomairwaves.org
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book for free from Wynn-Wynn Media for this review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
From the Back Cover: A widow vows to seek vengeance
A Texas Ranger swears to uphold the law
A blood feud splits Mason County in half
When Leta Denning’s husband is murdered at the beginning of the Mason County War, she wants one thing: revenge. Buck Morgan, a Texas Ranger called in to investigate, has ties to a German family involved in Denning’s death.
Buck’s ability to remain impartial and bring the murderer to justice has Leta anxious. As she struggles to keep her ranch afloat, Buck offers to help – all the while searching for the truth. A tentative trail emerges … one forged by respect and bound by vengeance and forgiveness.
Doubt meets faith, and fear gives way to faith in the Morgan family.
Get ready for excitement! A Texas Ranger, a widow rancher who is having trouble running her ranch, a rogue Texas Ranger and Range Wars; what a combination. Ms. Franklin expertly weaves in history at the beginning of each chapter to give us a better idea of what is going on. And once again “A Ranger’s Trail” is a romance set against the backdrop of Texas. This story deals with dealing with past trauma that is causing bad decisions and running away from who you really are. “A Ranger’s Trail” is all about families and relationships and that is what makes this book a winner. I enjoyed this book a lot and am looking forward to the next one.
If you would like to listen to interviews with other authors and professionals please go to www.kingdomhighlights.org where they are available On Demand.
To listen to 24 hours non-stop Christian music please visit our internet radio station www.kingdomairwaves.org
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book for free from Wynn-Wynn Media for this review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
July 22, 2012
MY THOUGHTS ON THIS BOOK
Buck Morgan enjoyed his family, but he just couldn’t see himself tied down to ranch life, even though that’s what his family wanted. Being a Texas Ranger was in his blood, and nothing else would satisfy that longing.
Leta Denning would forever be angry at the Germans because they killed her husband in cold blood with her watching. Now she is left running the ranch with her teenage brother Andy and her young son Ricky.
As Buck spends more and more time at the Denning ranch, he realizes that Leta couldn’t run the ranch without help, so along with his duties as Texas Ranger, he also does everything he can to help around the ranch, without Leta’s knowing, that is. But Buck also knows someone needs to protect Leta because of the wrath and fighting among the people. Things get a bit nasty, and someone needs to step in and gain control.
I am thoroughly enjoying this Texas Trails, Morgan Family series from River North. Book four, A Ranger’s Trail continues the Morgan family story. I have enjoyed getting to know Texas a bit better, even though the setting is years earlier. It is interesting to see how folks lived in those early days.
I really like Leta. She was strong, yet sometimes she showed weakness, but after seeing her husband murdered, how else could she be! Buck was just the right person for her. The attraction was so subdued at first, it just made things sweet between them. And as usual, there are the bad guys, and they didn’t care who they shot, young or old. The Texas Rangers were on the case though, and everything would turn out right? Wouldn’t it?
This is a great series and a very good read to continue the Morgan Family saga. I strongly encourage you to grab a copy of this book, along with the first three books and enjoy the journey of the Morgan’s.
This book was provided by River North Fiction
for me to read and review. I was not required or expected to write a positive
review. The opinions in this review are mine only.
Buck Morgan enjoyed his family, but he just couldn’t see himself tied down to ranch life, even though that’s what his family wanted. Being a Texas Ranger was in his blood, and nothing else would satisfy that longing.
Leta Denning would forever be angry at the Germans because they killed her husband in cold blood with her watching. Now she is left running the ranch with her teenage brother Andy and her young son Ricky.
As Buck spends more and more time at the Denning ranch, he realizes that Leta couldn’t run the ranch without help, so along with his duties as Texas Ranger, he also does everything he can to help around the ranch, without Leta’s knowing, that is. But Buck also knows someone needs to protect Leta because of the wrath and fighting among the people. Things get a bit nasty, and someone needs to step in and gain control.
I am thoroughly enjoying this Texas Trails, Morgan Family series from River North. Book four, A Ranger’s Trail continues the Morgan family story. I have enjoyed getting to know Texas a bit better, even though the setting is years earlier. It is interesting to see how folks lived in those early days.
I really like Leta. She was strong, yet sometimes she showed weakness, but after seeing her husband murdered, how else could she be! Buck was just the right person for her. The attraction was so subdued at first, it just made things sweet between them. And as usual, there are the bad guys, and they didn’t care who they shot, young or old. The Texas Rangers were on the case though, and everything would turn out right? Wouldn’t it?
This is a great series and a very good read to continue the Morgan Family saga. I strongly encourage you to grab a copy of this book, along with the first three books and enjoy the journey of the Morgan’s.
This book was provided by River North Fiction
for me to read and review. I was not required or expected to write a positive
review. The opinions in this review are mine only.
March 23, 2014
Title: A RANGER’S TRAIL
Author: Darlene Franklin
Publisher: Moody
January 2012
ISBN: 978-0802405876
Genre: Historical
This is the fourth book in a six-book series about four generations of the Morgan family living, fighting, and thriving amidst a turbulent Texas history spanning from 1845 to 1896. Although a series, each book can be read on its own.
In 1875 Buck Morgan rode into Mason County with the Texas Rangers to quell the violence stirred up by the actions a vigilantly mob. The Hoo Doo (or bad luck) War erupted as suspected cattle rustlers were murdered by an angry mob. Former ranger, Scott Cooley, gathers a gang to seek vengeance for the murders.
Suspected of cattle rustling, Leta Derrick's husband was murdered by the mob a year earlier. Now she is siding with the rogue ranger, Scott Cooley and refuses to help Buck Morgan stem the tide of violence.
Will their actions fuel the fire of vengeance? Or will Buck and Leta strike an accord that leads to more than just peace?
As said above, A RANGER’S TRAIL is the fourth book of The Texas Trails series. Fans will want to read the other books in the series, 1. Lone Star Trail, 2. Captive Trail, 3. Long Trail Home, 5. Cowgirl Trail, and 6. End of the Trail. I have read a couple of these, but not all. They were written by several different authors, which is good as it gives each family member a different voice.
A RANGER’S TRAIL starts out with the mandatory death in historicals. Leta is a tough woman, determined to murder the man who murdered her husband and her unborn baby. Buck is sent to stop the violence, and he and Leta find themselves on the opposite sides of the law.
A RANGER’S TRAIL is rich in historical detail without being bogged down. Fans of historical fiction will be interested in reading these details of Texas history after the Civil War. $14.99. 288 pages.
Author: Darlene Franklin
Publisher: Moody
January 2012
ISBN: 978-0802405876
Genre: Historical
This is the fourth book in a six-book series about four generations of the Morgan family living, fighting, and thriving amidst a turbulent Texas history spanning from 1845 to 1896. Although a series, each book can be read on its own.
In 1875 Buck Morgan rode into Mason County with the Texas Rangers to quell the violence stirred up by the actions a vigilantly mob. The Hoo Doo (or bad luck) War erupted as suspected cattle rustlers were murdered by an angry mob. Former ranger, Scott Cooley, gathers a gang to seek vengeance for the murders.
Suspected of cattle rustling, Leta Derrick's husband was murdered by the mob a year earlier. Now she is siding with the rogue ranger, Scott Cooley and refuses to help Buck Morgan stem the tide of violence.
Will their actions fuel the fire of vengeance? Or will Buck and Leta strike an accord that leads to more than just peace?
As said above, A RANGER’S TRAIL is the fourth book of The Texas Trails series. Fans will want to read the other books in the series, 1. Lone Star Trail, 2. Captive Trail, 3. Long Trail Home, 5. Cowgirl Trail, and 6. End of the Trail. I have read a couple of these, but not all. They were written by several different authors, which is good as it gives each family member a different voice.
A RANGER’S TRAIL starts out with the mandatory death in historicals. Leta is a tough woman, determined to murder the man who murdered her husband and her unborn baby. Buck is sent to stop the violence, and he and Leta find themselves on the opposite sides of the law.
A RANGER’S TRAIL is rich in historical detail without being bogged down. Fans of historical fiction will be interested in reading these details of Texas history after the Civil War. $14.99. 288 pages.
September 1, 2016
Firstly thanks to netgalley for my review book. This is the fourth book in this saga and just as good as the first book. What I love about the series is learning history. I am learning Texas was not a place for the weak hearted as there were constant issues that the people had to contend with. This book deals with the Hoo Doo war which I had not heard of before but it was very much like a feud with the German settlers on one side and the Anglo's on the other. Add a sheriff that sides with one side it led to a war. The book starts with the death of Leta's husband at the hands of a mob. We see how quickly the hate spreads and how it becomes tick for tack. Buck is a Texas Ranger who is trying to help quell the violence as well as finding the truth behind who murdered Leta's husband. In the mean time he she's a widow needing help, he can see the farm is run down and needs repairs and knows he can help in some way. On issue that can cause a problem is Bucks family who lives nearby is German and may be involved.
Watching the story unfold and reading about the actual facts of the war was interesting and seeing the out come for Buck and Leta's families. If you haven't read the previous 3 books you would still be able to follow this story but I would suggest you do read the first 3 books as it helps you understand the issues the Morgan family have faced up til this book. Great read and I look forward to book 5 in the series in April.
Watching the story unfold and reading about the actual facts of the war was interesting and seeing the out come for Buck and Leta's families. If you haven't read the previous 3 books you would still be able to follow this story but I would suggest you do read the first 3 books as it helps you understand the issues the Morgan family have faced up til this book. Great read and I look forward to book 5 in the series in April.
February 11, 2013
Texas Ranger Buck Morgan has been assigned to calm the ranchers after Leta Dennings husband is murdered at the start of the Mason County or Hoo Doo, War. Leta wants to see the person or persons responsible for the death of her husband to pay with their life. Buck is there to make sure there is no more blood shed. While he is there he might as well do the right thing for the widow and help her with the ranch when possible. If Leta finds out that he is related to German family that he suspects in the murder of her husband she will not trust him or allow him anywhere near her or her ranch. Searching for the truth is never easy especially if your heart is involved.
The author has added another great book to this series. It is full of intrigue, deceit and vengeance. Also reconciliation, forgiveness, love and trust that all is in God's hands for peace and harmony among the ranchers. This book was just a hard to put down as the others I have read in this series. So glad there were six books in this series.
I highly recommend this book.
I rated this book a 5 out of 5.
Disclosure: I received a gift copy of this book from Wynn-Wynn Media. I was in no way compensated for this review. It is my honest opinion.
The author has added another great book to this series. It is full of intrigue, deceit and vengeance. Also reconciliation, forgiveness, love and trust that all is in God's hands for peace and harmony among the ranchers. This book was just a hard to put down as the others I have read in this series. So glad there were six books in this series.
I highly recommend this book.
I rated this book a 5 out of 5.
Disclosure: I received a gift copy of this book from Wynn-Wynn Media. I was in no way compensated for this review. It is my honest opinion.
May 16, 2014
Each book in the Texas Trails series has its own unique voice (due to, in part, the myriad of writers that author the books). "A Ranger's Trail" is no exception this book takes place several years after the last installment and spotlights new characters in the Morgan family. Leta Denning is widowed after an angry German mob murders her husband in front of her and their child. Now nearly a year later another mob has formed, this one, behind an ex-Texas Ranger, is out exacting vengeance on the German mob for killing Leta's husband and one of the ranger's friend. It has turned into a regular old blood feud and no one is safe. Enter Buck Morgan, a Texas Ranger who is trying to get to the bottom of the fiasco and find out who belongs to which mob. Things become muddled thought when he meets Leta and finds himself falling for her charms. He is sworn to uphold the law, but it gets harder as his family is involved and his heartstrings are being pulled.
A fast paced novel about how vengeance tears apart the best of people. Like the characters we need to learn the hard lesson of forgiving one another, even when the crimes committed are pretty much unforgivable.
For fans of Christian historical romance and westerns.
A fast paced novel about how vengeance tears apart the best of people. Like the characters we need to learn the hard lesson of forgiving one another, even when the crimes committed are pretty much unforgivable.
For fans of Christian historical romance and westerns.
May 21, 2013
Leta Denning's husband is murdered at the start of the Mason County War, and all she wants is revenge. Buck Morgan is a Texas Ranger sent in to find the truth. Trying to show Christ's love, he starts helping Leta out at her ranch, becoming close to her, her son and her brother. Life gets more complicated as he finds those close to him on both sides of the war. Can he stay impartial, and will Leta stay fixed on revenge or learn forgiveness?
Book 4 of the Morgan Family series is just as good if not better as the other three. Historical fiction based on fact is a favorite genre of mine, and this one delivers. Bits and pieces from newspapers at the time, letters and more start each chapter, which was a very nice touch. There is a little romance in the book, but it doesn't interfere or over-run the main story line. This is a historical/western/adventure book first and foremost, and I am very excited to read the next book in the series.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher for the purpose of this review. I am not required to give a postive review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Book 4 of the Morgan Family series is just as good if not better as the other three. Historical fiction based on fact is a favorite genre of mine, and this one delivers. Bits and pieces from newspapers at the time, letters and more start each chapter, which was a very nice touch. There is a little romance in the book, but it doesn't interfere or over-run the main story line. This is a historical/western/adventure book first and foremost, and I am very excited to read the next book in the series.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher for the purpose of this review. I am not required to give a postive review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
February 7, 2012
In A RANGER'S TRAIL, author DARLENE FRANKLIN has incorporated fiction with non-fiction, set in the late 1800's. FRANKLIN provides insight to which characters are fictional and which are not. Each chapter begins with a real life account from actual documents that pertain to that particular chapter, an added plus to this historical novel.
Leta Denning witnesses the killing of her husband in the hands of angry men after being acquitted from cattle rustling. She is left alone to care for her young son and teenage brother. Bringing her husband's killers to justice is never far from her mind as she wrestles with all she's lost.
Texas Ranger, Buck Morgan comes home after an extended absence to uncover a wrongful killing. What he hadn't expected is the widow,Leta Denning to be a beautiful and strong independent woman.
The account of the range wars and cattle rustling will intrigue male readers as well as females, despite the romantic element. A RANGER'S TRAIL is the forth book of six in THE TEXAS TRAIL SERIES.
Leta Denning witnesses the killing of her husband in the hands of angry men after being acquitted from cattle rustling. She is left alone to care for her young son and teenage brother. Bringing her husband's killers to justice is never far from her mind as she wrestles with all she's lost.
Texas Ranger, Buck Morgan comes home after an extended absence to uncover a wrongful killing. What he hadn't expected is the widow,Leta Denning to be a beautiful and strong independent woman.
The account of the range wars and cattle rustling will intrigue male readers as well as females, despite the romantic element. A RANGER'S TRAIL is the forth book of six in THE TEXAS TRAIL SERIES.
July 14, 2015
This review is also posted on Book by Book.
The fourth Texas Trails novel, A Ranger’s Trail by Darlene Franklin takes an interesting look at Texas’ Mason County range war. At the center of all the action stand Texas Ranger Buck Morgan, who is the son of Jud and Wande of Lone Star Trail, and Leta Denning, a widow because of the range war. As they deal with the challenges set before them - prejudice and hatred, doubt and faith, the past and the future - Buck and Leta develop a heartwarming romance. The combination of history and romance in A Ranger’s Trail is done well and interestingly, and I enjoyed this addition to the series. Fans of the series will want to be sure to pick up this novel.
Thanks to Moody Publishers, I received a copy of A Ranger’s Trail and the opportunity to provide an honest review. I was not required to write a positive review, and all the opinions I have expressed are my own.
The fourth Texas Trails novel, A Ranger’s Trail by Darlene Franklin takes an interesting look at Texas’ Mason County range war. At the center of all the action stand Texas Ranger Buck Morgan, who is the son of Jud and Wande of Lone Star Trail, and Leta Denning, a widow because of the range war. As they deal with the challenges set before them - prejudice and hatred, doubt and faith, the past and the future - Buck and Leta develop a heartwarming romance. The combination of history and romance in A Ranger’s Trail is done well and interestingly, and I enjoyed this addition to the series. Fans of the series will want to be sure to pick up this novel.
Thanks to Moody Publishers, I received a copy of A Ranger’s Trail and the opportunity to provide an honest review. I was not required to write a positive review, and all the opinions I have expressed are my own.
February 29, 2012
I must say I have become a fan of Darlene Franklin's books. She incorporates real life happenings, which takes a lot of research, with a great imagination. This story is a great example of that.
Buck and Leta have baggage. Lots of baggage. Buck is half German; Leta hates the Germans, blaming them for her husband's death. They want the same thing, but their way of getting there is far different. With the typical ups and downs of frontier life, we see their love take root and grow, but only in their hearts, and against their wills.
Can they overcome the doubts and fears to find their faith, both in God and in each other?
I can't say enough good things about Ms. Franklin's writing. It pulls you in and won't let go until the story is told. You want to sit back and bask in the beauty of her words, as pictures are created in your mind.
***I received this book free for the purposes of review. The above is my honest opinion.
Buck and Leta have baggage. Lots of baggage. Buck is half German; Leta hates the Germans, blaming them for her husband's death. They want the same thing, but their way of getting there is far different. With the typical ups and downs of frontier life, we see their love take root and grow, but only in their hearts, and against their wills.
Can they overcome the doubts and fears to find their faith, both in God and in each other?
I can't say enough good things about Ms. Franklin's writing. It pulls you in and won't let go until the story is told. You want to sit back and bask in the beauty of her words, as pictures are created in your mind.
***I received this book free for the purposes of review. The above is my honest opinion.
December 13, 2016
It started off well enough, a typical romance; but when the character turns around and the woman is pointing a rifle at him, no man would assume that he could draw his pistol out of the holster before she fired off a shot. That was my first reaction. Glad she showed him!
That pushed the boundary of believable to me. Plus, women during that day and age, own their own, and in that kind of environment knew how to shoot and shoot well. First thing they would have learned if they were a tenderfoot.
I became tired of the author constantly reminding me about the horse's name, about who the characters were, or explaining things or dumping backstory info onto me.
These were my pet peeves and sometimes that analytical side interrupts my reading enjoyment.
Other than that, the story was well written, and it is a good book. Once I turned off my analytical side I was able to truly enjoy the story. I would recommend it to anyone who loves romance on the range stories.
That pushed the boundary of believable to me. Plus, women during that day and age, own their own, and in that kind of environment knew how to shoot and shoot well. First thing they would have learned if they were a tenderfoot.
I became tired of the author constantly reminding me about the horse's name, about who the characters were, or explaining things or dumping backstory info onto me.
These were my pet peeves and sometimes that analytical side interrupts my reading enjoyment.
Other than that, the story was well written, and it is a good book. Once I turned off my analytical side I was able to truly enjoy the story. I would recommend it to anyone who loves romance on the range stories.
February 9, 2012
A RANGER'S TRAIL by Darlene Franklin is an inspirational historical fiction. It is the 4th of the six "Texas Trails"series.A Morgan Family series,but can be read as a stand alone. "A Ranger's Trail" is a good story set in 1800 Texas. I really enjoyed the character Leta Derrick. She was a good Christian who kept everyone together and has a clear sene of God's leading. I also enjoyed the Texas Ranger Buck Morgan,who wants to stop the reign of violence. While "A Ranger's Trail" is story of forgiveness,revenge,following God's plans,family values and love. I would recommend "A Ranger's Triail" by Darlene Franklin. Received for an honest review from the publisher. Details can be found at Moody Publishers and My Book Addiction and More/My Book Addiction Reviews.
RATING: 4
HEAT RATING: Mild
REVIEWED BY: DorothyA,My Book Addiction and More/My Book Addiction Reviews
RATING: 4
HEAT RATING: Mild
REVIEWED BY: DorothyA,My Book Addiction and More/My Book Addiction Reviews
February 26, 2012
I won't go through and retell the story because I think that has been done enough. What I will say is I really enjoyed A Ranger's Trail, and had already read Long Trail Home. But I liked these two so well, I hope to go back and read the two that I missed. I did like the real life clips at the top of each chapter. It really gave you a real sense of how terrible these range wars were. And the way that Darlene worked the articles into her story was wonderful. Darelene's story flowed well, it was well paced and kept my interest from page one. I was invested in the hero and heroine which is a must for me. I've read stories that are good stories but I can't connect with the characters and just can't keep reading the book. That isn't so with A Ranger's Trail. The characters find a way into your heart and you cheer for them the whole way through.
February 17, 2012
Title: A Ranger's Trail
Author: Darlene Franklin
Publisher: Moody Publishing
ISBN: 978-0802405876
A Ranger's Trail is set in the late 1800s in Texas. Leta Denning's husband has been killed by a mob and she wants revenge.
Texas Ranger Buck Morgan is out to seek justice. The range war is getting out of hand and innocent people on both sides are dying. Then Buck finds out that Leta's nephew and his cousin are both involved in vigilante groups and considers resigning form his position with the Rangers.
This is a story about revenge and forgiveness. Filled with suspense, shootouts and vigilante justice, this is an excellent read and I recommend it to those who enjoy subtle lessons and a great story. Franklin has outdone herself with this one.
Author: Darlene Franklin
Publisher: Moody Publishing
ISBN: 978-0802405876
A Ranger's Trail is set in the late 1800s in Texas. Leta Denning's husband has been killed by a mob and she wants revenge.
Texas Ranger Buck Morgan is out to seek justice. The range war is getting out of hand and innocent people on both sides are dying. Then Buck finds out that Leta's nephew and his cousin are both involved in vigilante groups and considers resigning form his position with the Rangers.
This is a story about revenge and forgiveness. Filled with suspense, shootouts and vigilante justice, this is an excellent read and I recommend it to those who enjoy subtle lessons and a great story. Franklin has outdone herself with this one.
February 8, 2012
A Ranger's Trail is a wonderful story of family values, revenge, forgiveness, and following God's plan. When Leta Denning's husband is murdered, she vows to seek revenge, not realizing that her words and actions set her family on a destructive path of vengeance. When handsome Texas Ranger, Buck Morgan arrives, Leta has no idea of his personal stake in the Hoodoo war, and accepts his help around her decaying ranch. When she finds out how close he is to the Mason County War, she must choose between love or vengeance. A page-turning story that brings history to life.
February 12, 2012
A tale about a Texas range war, the Mason county conflict. Shoot outs, revenge, twisted justice, a Texas style Romeo & Juliet and a plane good yarn. Ah shucks being a native of that area makes me real proud of Darlene Franklin for being such a great author. Get this book, you will be a better person for doing so.
October 14, 2014
I really enjoyed this book. This is my second book by Darlene Franklin, so I had few expectations for this book. Of course, I wanted it to be as enjoyable as the rest of the series, and I was not disappointed on that account. View my full review here.
September 27, 2012
Book 4 of 6
October 5, 2012
Great read. A must read for everyone. Good christian outlook. Darlene is a great writer and am looking forward to reading other books by her.
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