Texas Refuge

The Marshalls #1

by Jean Brashear

Fans of Nora Roberts, Linda Howard, Elizabeth Lowell, Bella Andre and Robyn Carr will enjoy this sexy, emotional Texas romance with a paranormal twist, the first book in New York Times and USAToday bestselling author Jean Brashear's TEXAS The Marshalls series, romantic suspense that will grab your heart and keep it racing.


"Jean Brashear's distinctive storytelling voice instantly draws in the reader. She writes with warmth and emotional truth. The depth of her understanding of human nature marks her as a writer to watch, a writer to read and a writer to enjoy."~#1 New York Times bestselling author Debbie Macomber


Quinn Marshall is haunted after nearly dying in a failed attempt to save his sister, and the last thing the former Houston detective wants is another woman to watch over--but his rugged Texas ranch is the ideal hiding place for soap opera star Lorie Chandler, one of his brother Josh's closest friends. Neither Quinn nor Lorie expects the explosive heat or the powerful emotion that flares to life in his canyon refuge, yet there is no future for them and both are painfully aware that their time together can only be temporary.


The sequel, Josh's story, is TEXAS STAR. The third Marshalls book is TEXAS DANGER.


"Gifting readers with another emotionally charged romance, Ms. Brashear has a fine knack for commingling full-bodied characters, a fast-moving storyline and just the right measure of passion." ~Romantic Times Bookclub magazine


"Jean Brashear has that "it" factor. She is an incredibly talented writer who can hit every note with enough clarity to bring the reader tears, laughter, or just, 'Oh, my, this is an amazing story.' " ~New York Times bestselling author Stella Cameron


The TEXAS HEROES series


TEXAS SECRETS
TEXAS LONELY
TEXAS BAD BOY
TEXAS REFUGE
TEXAS STAR
TEXAS DANGER
TEXAS ROOTS
TEXAS WILD
TEXAS DREAMS
TEXAS REBEL


More praise for the TEXAS HEROES


"Marvelous talent for creating striking romantic stories by blending charismatic characters, compelling conflict and just the right touch of passion.” ~Romantic Times Bookclub magazine TOP PICK (4 ½ of 5 stars)
"I really enjoyed this, er, literary foreplay. I knew that when these two finally made love, they wouldn't just be going through the motions—there were going to be some fireworks....Jean Brashear is a terrific discovery for me." ~The Romance Reader


“Like fine wine and dark chocolate…uniquely plotted stories and characters so real they could live right next door.” ~Compuserve Romance Reviews
“Emotionally rich reunion book…ripe with secrets, scandals and sexual tension, it’s one book you’ll not want to put down.” ~America Online
” Jean Brashear can rip your heart out then make you laugh out loud, so be sure to have tissues handy.” ~Joyce Dixon, Amazon reader review (5 of 5 stars)
“Jean Brashear has written another great book. This 3rd story about the Gallagher siblings was a good one.” ~Snoopyfan, Amazon reader review (5 of 5 stars)
Crisp writing, richly drawn characters, strong plotting and fiery interludes show off Jean Brashear's top-notch romantic voice." ~Romantic Times Bookclub magazine (4 ½ of 5 stars)


"By the time I had finished the third page, I knew I was in the hands of a pro." ~The Romance Reader


"May all women have a lover as gifted as he is a 6 star lover on a 5 star scale. YUMMY!" ~Compuserve Romance Reviews


"This is a story for all romantics. Ms. Brashear has done what she does best, and makes her readers fall in love with two more wonderful characters." ~AOL


"Jean Brashear is a writer of rare talent." ~Affaire de Coeur

Genres: Romance, Romantic Suspense, Westerns, Suspense, Contemporary Romance, Paranormal, Contemporary

255 pages, Kindle Edition

First published March 1, 2012

About the author

A letter to Rod Stewart resulting in a Cinderella birthday for her daughter sowed the seeds of New York Times and USAToday bestselling author Jean Brashear's writing career. A lifelong avid reader, at the age of forty-five with no experience and no training, she decided to see if she could write a book. It was a wild leap that turned her whole life upside down, but she would tell you that though she's never been more terrified, she's never felt more exhilarated or more alive. She's an ardent proponent of not putting off your dreams until that elusive 'someday'—take that leap now.

Over fifty published novels later, the five-time RITA finalist and RTBookReviews Career Achievement Award winner has accumulated a whole passel of war stories to swap and loves nothing better than talking writing and books with readers and fellow writers.

And she'd still take that leap, war wounds and all.

Reviews

[Inna · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 stars. Pretty good romantic suspense, my one major issue is that this has an element of paranormal woo woo, with the hero having visions of the future. They get more and more elaborate as the story goes on, and he’s basically full on clairvoyant by the end when he “accepts his gift”. Just not into that kind of thing when everything else reads as completely normal.

Also, MAJOR SPOILER I’m somewhat annoyed that the heroine ended up giving up her career to be with the hero. The author should have found a compromise.

Safe
-Heroine is a widow, her husband died one year ago
-She has a son (5 yo) from her first husband
-Basically love at first sight where she immediately thinks that she’s got more attraction to the hero than she ever had to her husband. 😐
- Nothing that I remember about hero’s past
-No OW drama
-Mild OM drama bc hero thinks the heroine and his brother are together, but the reader knows they are not
-Sex scenes not super detailed
-No cheating or scenes with OM/OW

[Trish R. · Rating 5 out of 5]

October 17, 2013
I've read a lot of Ms. Brashear's books and have loved every one of them and this one was no different. Her characters, Quinn, Lori, Grant, Josh and Consuela were all just wonderful. Karl Marsden was just crazy. An all around terrific book.

September 29, 2015..

As you can see two years have passed since I first read this, and I decided to listen to it this time. It had been long enough for me to have forgotten some of it, due to the hundereds of books I've read since this one. And, again, I enjoyed it a second time. It was a wonderful love story with just enough stalker/murder to make it really interesting. And with just enough sex to make it a real romance.

I absolutely love Eric Dove. He's an awesome narrator.

[Isha Coleman · Rating 4 out of 5]

Texas Refuge is tale of strength in times of despair. Brashear truly got underneath my skin with Quinn and Lori. Whether playing the hero or struggling with guilt, Quinn is a sight to behold. He never wanted to be a hero, but that's the only life he knows. After tragedy hits too close to home, he questions his choices even as he continues to do what's right. Lori is the salvation he seeks, but in his life danger is never far away and this time, another heartbreaking may be his undoing. From Brashear's haunting words to Dove's emotional delivery, Texas Refuge gave me chills.

[Bette Hansen · Rating 4 out of 5]

Excellent story. A good romance and a bit of suspense. Excellent characters and very well written. All the things that make a good book enjoyable. I'd definitely recommend it.

[Donna Porter · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jean, I loved this book so much. It was sweet, tender, exciting, with some danger. It had it all. It centers on Lorie an actress who works with Josh. Josh's brother, Quinn comes for a visit and fall instantly for her. He thinks she is his brother's girl, but he doesn't know they are just friends. Lorie lives with her son Grant, and they have lost their husband/father. Lorie has a stalker and Quinn thinks she needs to take it more seriously. After an attack by her stalker, Quinn convinces Lorie to return to texas and his ranch to try to heal. This is such a great story. Take the time to read this one Its a great read

[Jodster's · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book. I could not put it down.. loved Quinn from the moment I met him on paper... loved the chemistry loved his integrity, loved how he loved his brother and loved loved loved how he was with a 5 year old boy and his mother. So glad I read this series.

[MamaBear2019 · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved every single mysterious second...

[Katina Fragakis · Rating 4 out of 5]

Quinn Marshall is an ex-cop who has a gift he doesn't want: prophetic dreams. Lorie Chandler is a widowed mother who doesn't know she needs Quinn's gift to protect herself and her son. Quinn resists his supernatural ability, insisting that he operate in the realm of "reality." Lorie's intention is to handle everything herself, even though she is in over her head. The only thing that gives her a reason to cooperate with Quinn is her love for her son.

The plot was very good, intense, suspenseful. Quinn and Lorie both needed a smack upside their heads: Lorie for thinking she had to face her stalker to protect her son and Quinn; Quinn for not accepting his gift and learning to use it before it was almost too late. Lorie's son, Grant, and Quinn's great aunt,Tia Consuela soften the sharp edges. Josh will have his own book.

As I noted in the headline, this is probably not a read for someone who has been stalked. I haven't, but I really didn't listen carefully the second time because of the feelings I had during the first listening. Readers of Nora Roberts books will enjoy Texas Refuge.

Mr. Dove has a pleasant voice that lends itself to both sexes, all ages. He does amp up the tension between the characters. Ms. Brashear continues to produce excellent reading and listening experiences.

[Cassie · Rating 5 out of 5]

So enjoyed this box set.
Narration was awesome.
Loved all the characters that brought this series together.

Quinn and Lorie’s story was so dear to my heart in the way Quinn is so attuned to himself and the universe. The drama in the story kept you guessing at what was happening next and kept me reading/listening to the last page, hunger to get on to the next in the series.

Josh and Elena’s story starts out a bit funny in the way that she keeps running from him. But he means to keep his woman. Loved this one as well as it introduced past lives and soul mates, also dear to my heart. Again couldn’t wait to get to the end and start the next book.

Case and Sammie’s story was a great read also. Having powerful people after you is a good reason to say nothing and hide. But the strong characters in this book were more powerful. Sammie in the end ready to face her past to move forward.

[Terri · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed Texas Refuge very much. This audible, narrated by Eric G. Dove, is terrific. Jean Brashear does have a gift! She writes such wonderful stories that capture my attention from the start. Always excellent character development and plot. Lorie, an actress has a psychopath after her. She is widowed with a son, Grant, living in the city. Meanwhile, her co-star, Josh, has a brother, Quinn in town to visit. Quinn is a a retired homicide detective. Well, I recommend this audible to anyone that enjoys great writing and great narrating. No spoilers from me! I received this audible for free and have chosen to provide my honest review.

[JigsawGirl · Rating 4 out of 5]

The narrator, Eric Dove, was very good. He manages to keep you so engaged in the story that you forget he is reading all the characters.

I read this book a few years ago, but listening to the audio book made it seem even more suspenseful. This was a good story on its own merit. Quinn and Lori had a strong connection along with the intense chemistry they shared. I enjoyed Quinn and Grant's relationship. Quinn's gift was an interesting addition to the story. Having Tia Consuela and Lori helping him to embrace it, made me wonder if they noticed that Grant seemed to have a gift of his own.

I love an audiobook because I don't have to miss out my reading. I can continue to do other things while listening to the book.

I voluntarily listened and reviewed this audiobook.

[Christine Woinich · Rating 5 out of 5]

I thoroughly enjoyed this story. The narrator, Eric G. Dove, brought Lorie and Quinn to life. They showed that love of family and between a man and woman were important. Lorie was so brave and independent despite the violence surrounding her. Quinn's protectiveness made him a wonderful man to have on one's side. Between the story and the narrator, I was brought to tears at times, laughed and smiled other times. I did not want to stop listening, and I look forward to the next in the series as the secondary characters were just as much fun.

I received a copy of this audiobook as a gift, and this is my unsolicited review.

[Dawn Myers · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jean Brashear grabbed my attention in the prologue and kept to the epilogue. There was suspense, angst and . In my opinion you are thrown into terror from the get go. It does take quite a while to get to Quinn's troubles. I liked Quinn and his loyalty to his brother. I liked how he is with Grant. Lorie in my opinion makes some questionable decisions, but I appreciate her trying not to live in fear, but we see she is not perfect and she is human. I loved how she is with Grant, I found her to be a good mom. I found myself a little teary eyed at the end. In my opinion The Marshalls Series is starting out better than the Morning Star Series.

[Terry Houchin · Rating 5 out of 5]

A very suspenseful story. I loved it.
It is not your typical western story, part of the story takes place in New York and part of it in Texas. So if you are looking for a true western, this isn't it.
If you are looking for a great romance, then look no further. The chemistry between Quinn and Lorie is explosive. Not exactly a clean read but it does not have graphic sex scenes either.
The psycho who is stalking her causes all of the suspense in the story. He is a truly evil villan, very creepy.

[Susa · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’ve recently started to read these books again after not touching them for quite some years.
I love the story, the suspense mixed with romance.
But what I liked most is Tia’s old wisdom of healing; fact is there is sense in practicing old healing rites passed down by generations of healers. These have existed long before our current methods were developed, with less negative i’m,pact on people, btw. lots of our drugs are based on ancient herbs or plant remedies ... a bit of retro in this field would benefit us all.

[Coral Mitchell · Rating 4 out of 5]

Lorie is targeted by a desperate stalker, placing herself and her son Grant in danger. Quinn's life changed drastically when his sister was murdered. Now, another woman is in danger and haunts his dreams. Quinn and Grant's relationship and Quinn's dreams were the best parts of this book.Lorie wants to continue with her career, takes her safety for granted, and underestimates the darkness of the stalker. I voluntarily reviewed this book.

[Sue · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed this book very much. I’m choosing to read the whole Marshall’s series, however I’m not big on paranormal, spirits, magic, etc which this book has interwoven in it. I tried to ignore that part and read for the romance, the family aspect and it’s connection to the whole series. Jean is a terrific author.

[Martha · Rating 5 out of 5]

Book one of The Marshalls series. (I also read book two: Texas Star and book three: Texas Danger) I really likes this series...I think it was the hint of paranormal and suspense as well as the love story.

[Louise · Rating 4 out of 5]

good book have to read all of them

[Anne Blyth · Rating 4 out of 5]

Fascinating story about special senses and honourable values dealing with evil intent. Love is a bonus.

[Irma · Rating 4 out of 5]

Drawn but a good read

[Quinn Fforde · Rating 3 out of 5]

Good story but more violent than I expected

[Pamela Devereux · Rating 4 out of 5]

Quinn is a troubled soul. He saw his sisters death & couldn't get there in time to save her. Now he is on his way to New York. His brother is worried. He has had a couple of visions but doesn't know there meaning. Then he meets Lorie. The zing between them is strong. Quinn sees the way Josh is around Lorie & assumes they are a couple. But a maniac has scared her. She needed to get to her son Grant. Over the next few days, Quinn looks out for Grant. Then the maniac strikes. He senses she is in trouble. He gets there but not before he harmed her. The police are now looking into the death of her husband. After the Emmy's Quinn takes them both to his place. Grant is blossoming & Lorie is finding peace. But the maniac has taken Grant. While Quinn heads out, Lorie stays back. Just what the crazy man wanted. Now Lorie is being taken to Grant. In the end, he goes back to the place Quinn has been seeing in his dreams. He comes to their rescue & the candles tip over. The place is ablaze. Grant, Lorie and Quinn become a family. Can't wait to read more.

[Jeanie Jackson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Excellent romantic suspense with a touch of paranormal. Suffering from PTSD after not having been able to save his sister, Quinn Marshall, resigns from the Houston Police Department and moves home to west Texas to heal. Although being home is helping some, he is still having nightmares about her death, but now they are mixed with another kind of nightmare. The kind he had before she died except these nightmares are about two people he has never met. His great-aunt and soap opera star brother talk him into making a trip to New York hoping that time with his younger brother will help him heal and who does he meet the first day at the set but the woman of his new nightmares. A woman with who he feels and instant connection.
I won a copy of this book during an online party for an author that I follow. Jean Brashear was new to me but I will be following her in the future.

[Dianne Sidebottom · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good story with suspense. Ex homicide detective who still thinks still as a cop who now ranches comes to see his brother Josh in New York who is an actor. Josh is friends with most of the cast in his tv show and gets caught up in Lorie's n son Grants life. Lorie grief over her husbands death which was an accident. the storyline involves them all. The writer helps the reader to see inside of the mind of someone who has fantasy, possessiveness, patience issues with idol worshipping. Then in the science method of justice bringing someone like that to naming them n flushing them out..

[Linda · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a 3.5 book and really enjoyable to read. This is a story about Quinn Marshall from Texas who had dreams of impending danger. His dream about Lorie Chandler and her son Grant was one he did not understand because he had not met them yet. It is an interesting story about finding your inner peace when you need it the most.

Have reread this story and I really enjoyed reading it again. Visions are not to be ignored and Quinn Marshall learned that the hard way but he would not make that mistake again.

[Clémence · Rating 1 out of 5]

The beginning was so terrible. I tried to keep reading, I really did, but it's just hopeless.
There is no easing you into the water beginning chapter, the author just throws you into this pit of angst and drama right from the start. And when you have to wait 6 chapters of this much angst on every page to get to the context, the reason why Quinn is so anxious and having nightmares...it's just too much so I gave up.

[Pam H · Rating 4 out of 5]

Quinn is a retired lawman unable to forgive himself for not saving his own sister. He goes to NYC to visit his actor brother Josh and meets Lorie a beautiful actress with a 5 year old son. Lorie has attracted the unwanted interest of a fan and it throws Quinn back into the nightmare of trying to save someone he cares about. I liked the story but much of the details of the ending were left out and I thought they would have wrapped it up nicely.

[Black Butterfly · Rating 5 out of 5]

I LOVED THIS STORY WAS VERY SWEET,SUSPENSE THRILLER, SEXY,ROMANTIC, HEARTWARMING WITH A TOUCH OF SUPERNATURAL PSYCHIC. THAT'S A LOT GOING ON IN ONE BOOK BUT IT ALL FLOWS TOGETHER INTO A WONDERFUL STORY. QUINN IS A TROUBLED MAN SUFFERING FROM A HORRIBLE ACT HE WITNESSED BUT COULDN'T PREVENT. HE MEETS THE BEAUTIFUL ACTRESS LORIE AND HER SON GRANT, WHO ARE BEING STALKED BY A MANIAC. EVEN THOUGH QUINN IS A BROKEN MAN, BEING A TRUE ALPHA MALE HE CAN'T LEAVE THEM HELPLESS. I SO ENJOYED THIS BOOK.;D

[Janeiowa · Rating 4 out of 5]

This one is a thriller. Ms Brashear has written a great story line with characters who are both "larger than life" in some ways and yet very likeable, believable people. I'm looking forward to getting the next one about Quinn's brother, Josh, who is also in this book. Ms Brashear does indeed write very much like my most favorite author, Linda Howard.