The endless Texas landscape hides all manner of sins…
Special Agent Tucker Snow knows there's big money roaming the fields under the wide Texas sky—and the cattle rustlers committing large-scale thefts on remote ranches know it, too. But when a prominent local rancher dies unexpectedly and his property is quietly sold to an unknown buyer, Tucker suspects there's something more sinister going on in his jurisdiction than the usual steal-and-resell racket. Still raw after the tragic death of his wife and young daughter, the lawman can't bear the thought of more innocent lives destroyed by people whose greed poisons everything around them.
Working alongside his brother, Harley, Tucker uncovers a dark ring of organized crime that goes well beyond cattle rustling—a breed of deception and greed that has turned into a silent killer and will take down anyone who crosses its path. The question is whether Tuck and Harley will be able to shut it down before it finds the people they love the most…
Reavis Z. Wortham retired in 2011 and now works harder than before as the author of the critically acclaimed Red River historical mystery series. Kirkus Reviews listed his first novel, The Rock Hole, as one of their Top 12 Mysteries of 2011. True West Magazine included Dark Places as one of 2015’s Top 12 Modern Westerns. The Providence Journal writes, “This year's Unraveled is a hidden gem of a book that reads like Craig Johnson's Longmire on steroids.” Wortham’s new high octane contemporary thriller from Kensington Publishing, Hawke's Prey, featuring Texas Ranger Sonny Hawke was released in June, 2017.
Action, suspense, and a suspicious death combine with fantastic characters in this contemporary western crime thriller. This is book two in the Tucker Snow series and the story is set soon after book one. Tucker and his daughter Chloe are living on a ranch near Ganther Bluff in Red River County, Texas. They relocated here after Tucker’s wife and youngest daughter were killed in a car wreck.
After leaving his job as an uncover narcotics agent for the Texas Department of Public Safety, Tucker has taken a job as a special ranger for the Texas and Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association, the oldest livestock alliance in Texas. While a lot of what he deals with is cattle rustling, he also deals with ranch equipment thefts and other items. In this case, he’s chasing some rustlers, but when a visit to a local rancher is followed by attempted bribes and threats, Tucker believes there’s more going on than rustling. His brother Harley once again joins him in his investigation.
Great characterization is something you can count on from this author. Tucker is still grieving the loss of his wife and daughter while trying to support Chloe as she grieves and goes through normal teenage angst. He is detail oriented, a planner, and pursues justice. He has a strong moral code but doesn’t always play by the official rules when it comes to protecting his family and friends.
The book is disquieting and unsettling at times with plenty of exciting scenes, drama, and action. Once again readers know many of the antagonists early in the book. However, it didn’t detract from the journey of following Tucker’s investigation. The world-building is fantastic and takes readers to rural eastern Texas. The action-packed chase scene in the early chapters is just the beginning of the action. A few twists and turns in the plot added to my curiosity and engrossment in the story. The novel highlights greed, grief, family, friendship, various types of crimes, dangerous coverups, the rural grapevine, contrasts between those living in the city versus those living in the country, and much more.
Overall, this was a tense, riveting novel with a story arc that kept me engaged throughout. While this series is best read in order, enough background is provided to allow this to be a standalone novel as well. Those who enjoy contemporary western crime thrillers will likely enjoy the series. I can’t wait to see where the author takes the next book in the series.
Poisoned Pen Press and Reavis Wortham provided a complimentary digital ARC of this novel via NetGalley. All opinions expressed in this review are my own. The publication date is currently set for August 20 2024. This review was originally posted at Mystery and Suspense Magazine. ---------------------------------------- My 4.16 rounded to 4 stars review is coming soon.
Tucker Snow is back in The Broken Truth by master storyteller Reavis Z. Wortham. This time it's not only cattle that's disappearing, it is ranchers as well. Tucker has his work cut out for him and once again family plays a big part in the story. In my opinion this series is not the best one by this great author but it'is still a damn good read. I have never felt let down by any books from Wortham and he has a wonderful way of creating fantastic characters and settings, he has stories that spans most of Texas history now and there is another series I still haven't started yet but that is my fault. If you like stories about rural Texas and swift justice then I recommend that you try this author. I must thank Poisoned Pen Press and Netgalley for supplying me with this advance copy of a great book.
I picked up this book from the author’s book signing. I read Hard Country last year and loved it. It was good to read about the Snow Brothers again. They always seem to find themselves in a bad situation. They are tough sons of a gun. I love that his stories are centered around northeast Texas. I loved both books but might this one a little better because there seemed to be more gun shoot outs. And the way the bad guys could track certain people is what many people thought was happening during COVID. The author said this is the last book of the Tucker Snow thrillers which makes me sad but it sounds like he has other projects ahead, so we will get different books from the author.
Tucker and his brother, Harley, don’t seem to purposely look for trouble, it just keeps finding them. As a special ranger for the Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association, Tucker covers a vast area in both Texas and Oklahoma regions. I enjoy how the brothers interact and their similarities as well as their differing personality traits. They play well off each other. Tucker is following up on an uptick in cattle rustling. A friendly stop at a rancher’s place sets in motion a chain of strange events. The plot took unexpected turns as the story unfolded. I thought it was a fresh look at the oil industry conglomerates. It kept me engaged and guessing how it would play out. The story has a Western vibe but is modern and fresh. I know I’ve stated this before, but I must reiterate how wonderful it is to find an author I love from my native Texas. Having grown up in North Texas many of the places in this series are very familiar and Mr. Wortham makes them come alive. His characters are authentic, interesting, and he draws the reader into their lives. I will read more from this wonderful author and can’t wait for more in the series. NetGalley provided an advanced reader’s copy of “The Broken Truth” Tucker Snow Thriller #2, by Reavis Z. Wortham, publisher Sourcebooks, Poisoned Pen Press, expected publication 08/20/2024. These are all my own honest personal thoughts and opinions given voluntarily without compensation.
Tucker Snow is a “cattle cop” in Texas and in the course of his job, he stumbles into a mystery that goes way beyond the scope of his jurisdiction when a local rancher dies and everything with his property is quickly and quietly dealt with. Tucker and his retired law enforcement brother, Harley, can’t help but dig deeper to find out what’s really going on in their area. No one would expect the mystery to unfold and endanger Tucker and his family. There’s nothing some people won’t do for money and corporate greed is rampant in this story. This book was well written, full of twists and turns along with the sinister actions of criminals. I feel that it was a bit slow to get into, but once the action picked up, it was an easier read.
The Broken Truth by Reavis Z. Wortham A Tucker Snow Thriller #2
My ~ Oh My ~ What a great addition to a thrilling series!
What I liked: * Tucker: widow, single parent, needs time to grieve but always there for his teenage daughter, strong, lethal, has his own moral code, has been uncover with his brother, thought his job with the TSCRA would be easier, seems to be “snakebit” more often than desired ~ Love him and want to see more of him * Harley: Tucker’s younger brother, partner when under cover in the past, family man, married to Tammy with two young sons, adopting Jimma, a bit hyper, in synch with Tucker on the job, civilian with a business of his own * The relationship between Tucker and Harley and they way they work fluidly as a team * Chloe: strong, resilient, survivor, good friend to Jimma, has been through a lot, missing her mother and younger sibling, would like to just be a teenager at some point in time – as would Jimma * Tammy: Harley’s wife, strong, lethal, protective, good mother, loving wife, can identify with her * Russel & Jenny: good friends, strong, capable, there for those they care about * The plot, pacing, setting, and writing * That I felt part of the story and cared about the outcome * That some of the criminals wore gray rather than black hats and perhaps some can change their ways * Being made aware of the part the oil industry and its product has on the world * That it made me think * Knowing there is another book to look forward to
What I didn’t like: * Who and what I was meant not to like * Wendell Cross, who he works for, the methods and means he used to implement his plans, and his disregard for just about everything – except himself
Did I like this book? Yes Would I read more in this series? Definitely
Thank you to NetGalley and Sourcebooks-Poisoned Pen Press for the ARC – this is my honest review.
Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this eARC.
The Broken Truth by Reavis Wortham is a gripping thriller that plunges readers into a world of mystery, danger, and deception. Wortham, known for his Red River series, crafts a standalone novel that showcases his talent for creating intricate plots and compelling characters.
The story follows Texas Ranger Sonny Hawke, who is called to investigate a series of brutal murders in the small town of Ballard. As Hawke delves deeper into the case, he uncovers a web of lies and corruption that threatens to unravel the very fabric of the community. The tension escalates as Hawke races against time to stop a killer who is always one step ahead.
Wortham’s writing is taut and suspenseful, keeping readers on the edge of their seats. His portrayal of the rugged Texas landscape adds a vivid backdrop to the unfolding drama, enhancing the sense of place and atmosphere. The characters are well-drawn and multi-dimensional, with Hawke standing out as a determined and resourceful protagonist.
Wortham balances action with emotional depth. Wortham explores themes of justice, loyalty, and the impact of past traumas on the present. The relationships between the characters, particularly Hawke’s interactions with his colleagues and the townspeople, add layers of complexity to the narrative.
The plot is filled with twists and turns, keeping readers guessing. Wortham skillfully weaves together multiple storylines, creating a rich tapestry of intrigue and suspense. The pacing is brisk, with each chapter propelling the story forward and building momentum.
The Broken Truth is a standout thriller that will appeal to fans of crime fiction and suspense. Wortham’s masterful storytelling and keen eye for detail make this a must-read for anyone looking for a thrilling and immersive reading experience. Whether you’re a longtime fan of Wortham’s work or new to his writing, this novel is sure to leave a lasting impression.
The story begins with cattle rustling and ends with murder. The path between them is not straight, and the moral of the story is, "Don't threaten the families of the Snow brothers."
Reavis Wortham evokes the atmosphere of southwestern cowboy culture as well as any writer I've read. My uncle was a USDA herd inspector in the Texas panhandle and southeastern New Mexico, and I could hear his voice telling every piece of this story.
The characters are ... characters, and they fit the story well. The Snows are hard-bitten old Texas lawmen and their families have been raised to take care of themselves. The enemies are a bit oversold, but there are reasons for what they're doing, and they use all of their considerable resources in an effort to get out of the situation they find themselves in.
The story is tightly crafted, with no time for a rest, or even a spare breath, from start to finish. I could have done without some of the cultural commentary, but even that was completely consistent with the characters in the story.
I had had a run of weak books in the last few days, and had almost forgotten how refreshing a really good book is.
The best book of the month for me on the last day of the month. Highly recommended.
Tucker Snow is a special ranger for the Texas and Southwestern Cattle Raisers Assn. He shows up at most stock sales and verifies the shipping tickets with the stock actually brought to market. Trying to catch cattle thieves is a full time and very dangerous job.
Tucker’s brother Harley often assists him tracking lost shipments. He has a quick wit and even quicker temper. Together they team up to reduce the amount of thefts. The banter between them is hilarious as they continue to track the bandits.
Revis has woven this story into a very believable narrative. Large scale profits attract high-level, cold-blooded thieves. Consortiums grow and the biggest thieves get the richest. Can Tucker and Harley thwart these thieves? Read and Enjoy! 5 stars – CE Williams
Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with the opportunity to read and review this book. These opinions are my own
2nd Book in the Tucker Snow series that crosses several of my favorite genre, mystery, western and lots of thriller action. Reavis Wortham is a prolific author with several excellent series in his library and it's evident in the quality of this series. Set in the Oklahoma/Texas cattle areas, Tucker Snow accepted a job from the Cattleman's Associations to police their members. This allows the recent widower to spend time with his teenage daughter. The first book in this series was awesome, this one the same. Wortham built a realistic community and populated it with characters that are so three dimensional, he must have met them in real life. Good guys or bad, their place in the story fits them. There are not many authors who can so completely blend the everyday lives of the characters into the plot and have readers so engrossed they miss sleep to find out how it ends. Investigating a string of cattle thefts will take Tucker, along with Harley and his gang, into the middle of the mystery death of a rancher and the questionable probate of his estate. What started as a few questions will lead to blood and bullets as Tucker's curiosity comes close to killing him.
Tucker Snow has returned to his job as special ranger for Texas and Southwestern Cattle Raiser's Association. He's a cattle cop.
As the story begins, Tucker is on a high speed chase with cattle rustlers who begin shooting at him. If he doesn't get them this time, he will the next. Something bigger than rustling seems to be afoot. Tucker and his brother Harley don't know how to back down especially when their families are in danger. With a name like Harley, you know he is beyond tough so someone just made a big, big mistake.
I can't tell you how much I enjoyed the first book in this series, Hard Country, which I read earlier this year. This one is just as good but do yourself a favor and read the first one too.
So many things I love about this series, especially the characters and the shootouts. I love that it's set in Texas. We have lots of cows here.
Before the halfway point, the action really starts to ramp up. If you like high octane, action packed thrillers, pick up this series.
Tucker Snow, Cattle Cop and his brother Harley, retired law enforcement, are at it again in the second book of the Tucker Snow Mystery Series.
Local cattle are missing and along with the missing cattle, some of the ranchers are as well. There just is something wrong with this scenario. Tucker is warned, but that just makes him want to get to the truth. What follows is a harrowing ride throughout Northwestern Texas as Tucker and Harley race to keep their families safe from a seemingly unstoppable foe.
I was amazed with the 'new technology' that the author adds to the drama. If these new tech devices are real, we're all being surveilled...all the time! That's kind of a scary thought. Although most of us know, with our smart phones, we're being tracked daily. The other high tech gadgets are just over the top!
An excellent read with lots of twists and turns. The book was a bit slow in the beginning for me, but quickly picked up speed and I couldn't put it down.
The Broken Truth is another action packed thrill ride featuring cattle agent Tucker Snow and his brother Harley. The book is part of a series but could probably be read as a standalone. Tucker and Harley always find trouble and it’s rarely related to cattle. While he’s supposed to be investigating stolen cattle, Tucker stumbles into a dangerous cover up of radioactive materials that is causing cancer in local ranchers. The bad guys come for Tucker and his family and the Snow brothers serve up their own renegade brand of justice. Action packed and full of hard hitting vengeance, the Snow brothers kill all villains and let God sort them out attitude is the whole reason I love these books. My voluntary, unbiased, and non-mandatory review is based upon review copy from NetGalley.
The Broken Truth is the second in the Tucker Snow series by Reavis Wortham, and it's a page turning doozy! With a threat to his family, a simple cow and calf pickup turned into a massive hide and seek. Getting unexpected help from one of the bad guys who remembered his conscience turned the tide in Snow's quest for justice. This is such a good book, I'm sad I was restricted to only 5 stars. I highly recommend to readers who like fast-paced suspense, mystery, and thriller rolled into one.
Tucker just happens to stumble onto a situation that has him looking into why a rancher died and his property was sold for next to nothing. He might have let everything go except the people who decided to come after him and his daughter thinking he knew something. What he knew was now that someone was after him he along with his Brother Harley were going to find out what the issue was or is and take the battle to those people. This makes for a very interesting and exciting book. One that is very much worth the read.
Need a cowboy “fix”? Well modern day cowboys may not remind me of Gene and Roy, but the bad guys are just as evil and have found new ways to practice their evil trade. Seeing just how extensive their reach extends is the problem for our protagonists as they must find ways to let the good guys win. I received an advanced copy of this book from NetGalley and the publisher and voluntarily provided an hour review.
one of my favorite "unknown" authors. This book was #2 in a series featuring a cattle cop. Interesting premise. It's a bit over the top in many parts of the book but full of quirky and very likeable characters. It did contain some Texas MAGA talking points but wasn't too bad and fit with the characters. Very gun heavy, violent and full of good old boys and bad old boys. Not my favorite but still good.
I became hooked on this author with his Red River Mysteries series, but I have really enjoyed two of his other series. The Broken Truth is the second in his series about two brothers who were former undercover cops but one is now retired and running a self defense training company and the other is a livestock agent with arrest authority in Texas and Oklahoma. Lots of action and quite the page turner. A very entertaining read, can hardly wait for his next offering.
Tucker and Harley Snow are back in a riveting thriller from good ole Texas boy Reavis Z. Wortham. This book is hard to put down. It holds your interest with nothing boring at all. Great characters and a roller coaster storyline.
I enjoyed this book and the crazy situations Tucker finds himself in. There were a lot of characters to keep up with and parts of the storyline got a little confusing, but it became more clear near the end for me.
Overall 3.5 stars A modern Western thriller that has enough action. Tucker Snow, a special ranger tackling cattle rustling, stumbles into a web of unexpected twists tied to the oil industry.
Predictable characters, unrealistic ending giving this writer the sense that the author was on deadline and had to finish the manuscript. Some good action; closer to 2.50 stars.
A sequel to Hard Country, I enjoyed this novel, but, like the 1st novel, it gets a little bogged down in the details. Once you get past that, it's an enjoyable book.The plot takes a while to get going, but once rolling, it keeps you involved. Also, living in Dallas and having grown up in East Texas, it's fun to read about places you know.