With adjacent ranches, Monty Powell and Amber Reyes were always together. First as childhood friends and later as…more. Much more. But a family legacy and a bigger secret kept them apart. Until a killer strikes and casts suspicions on Monty. Revenge or reckoning, someone is out for blood. Monty and Amber now set out to find evidence to expose a deeper criminal plot before gunfire erupts again and threatens the new family of three they are about to become.
From Harlequin Seek thrills. Solve crimes. Justice served.
Discover more action-packed stories in the Cowboy State Duty and Honor series. All books are stand-alone with uplifting endings but were published in the following
Book 1: Wyoming Mountain Investigation Book 2: Wyoming Ranch Justice Book 3: Wyoming Undercover Escape Book 4: Wyoming Christmas Conspiracy
Juno Rushdan is a veteran US Air Force intelligence officer and the award-winning author of romantic thrillers. Her books are action-packed, nail-biting page-turners with twists you won’t see coming. Critics from Kirkus, Publishers Weekly, BookPage and Library Journal have called her work “heart-pounding James Bond-ian adventure”, “fast-paced”, “gripping”, “a thrill ride” that “will captivate lovers of romantic thrillers.” She is married to her own military hero and is privileged to have two rambunctious kids and a spoiled rescue dog. For a FREE book from Juno: http://bit.ly/JunoFREE. Be sure to follow her on BookBub for the latest on sales: bit.ly/BookBubJuno.
Wyoming Christmas Conspiracy by Juno Rushdan Cowboy State Lawman: Duty and Honor series #4. Spinoff from Cowboy State Lawman series. Harlequin Intrigue. Contemporary romantic suspense. Can be read as a stand-alone but various family members from prior books play secondary roles here. Amber has always been in love with Monty. From the time she was young with stars in her eyes, she saw their two ranches and families becoming one. And while Monty might have wanted Amber for his own, more than that, he wanted to make his own decisions. To choose his life and job and not just take over the ranch because he was supposed to as the oldest. He did try ten years ago to make a relationship work. But when Amber found out about the premarital arrangements by her father, she walked away, hurt and disillusioned.
Ten years later, Amber’s father leaves a will requiring Amber and Monty to marry or they lose the land that’s been in their family for generations. Neither are happy about the manipulation. In the midst of the last 30 days in which to get married, Monty is found unconscious, next to a dead body, with everything pointing to him. Amber believes he is innocent. Now they and the police need to figure out what’s going on.
Action packed storyline that just doesn’t quit. Not just a simple marriage contract, but so much more. Intense. And happily includes just the right amount of romance to not overwhelm the suspense. This author has turned into an auto buy for me.
Second chance romance and an absolutely wonderful suspense plot. Juno Rushdan used to be an auto read for me, but I got disenchanted with her when her recent books seemed to be form over substance, with a strong dose of formula. Not so with this book. The characters of Monty and Amber resonated with me as well as the plot which was all about some twisted revenge.
For as long as she could remember Amber Reyes has loved Monty Powell. At nineteen, she was devastated when her mother died, but Monty was there for her, and she truly believed he loved her when he asked her to marry him. When she finds out he only cared about his family legacy, she leaves and stayed gone until her father dies ten years later. A one-night stand with Monty leaves her pregnant and still unsure how he really feels. But there is another matter that may destroy this soon to be family. A woman is determined to wreck her vengeance on Monty and his whole family.
I really enjoyed this 4th installment. Childhood friends to lovers is quickly becoming one of my favorite tropes! I enjoyed the suspense, intrigue and fight to prove Monty’s innocence. Not to mention all of the drama surrounding the marriage arrangement in order to keep the ranch. Very suspenseful and kept me on my toes throughout the story!
With a hero who’s a state trooper as well as a rancher and a heroine who ran away from him once already, this book definitely lives up to its hype as unputdownable and filled with action. There are so many twists in the book as there is a conspiracy to take down the entire Powell family. The red herrings were everywhere, too, and made the story engaging and intriguing. I kept guessing the wrong bad guys and then, like the GPS, after reading more, I kept re-calculating. I enjoyed the interaction between the dynamic and somewhat flawed characters. I especially enjoyed the high-octane suspense and mystery surrounding the entire family. Monty Powell is a force to be reckoned with and I was sorry to see his story end, but the love story between him and Amber Reyes is just beginning. A fast pace and riveting suspense make this book a must read for anyone who enjoys happy endings with a twisted road to get you there. Disclaimer Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. I was not required to write a positive review and all opinions expressed are my own, I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16th CFR, Part 255, “Guidelines Concerning the Use of Testimonials and Endorsements in Advertising.”
This was a fast-paced, action-packed story with intense suspense and a second-chance romance. Growing up on neighboring ranches, Monty and Amber's childhood friendship grew into more when they got older. While Amber was in love with Monty, he was more interested in following his own path. Family interference and a big secret drove them apart until Amber's father's death when manipulation from beyond the grave brings them together again.
The book opens with a bang as Amber stumbles onto a murder scene where Monty is the prime suspect. She may have trust issues with him, but Amber knows he isn't capable of murder. It is soon evident that someone has it in for Monty and the entire Powell family. The twists and escalating attacks kept me glued to the pages as the intensity built. The final confrontation was a heart-pounding nail-biter with Amber in extreme danger.
I loved watching Monty and Amber navigate through their relationship. Because of their past, Amber is reluctant to trust him with her heart again. This puts her late father's demands on shaky ground, risking both ranch properties. She also has a big secret she is keeping from him that will change their future. Monty freely admits his past mistakes and insists he's learned his lesson. He wants a chance to make things right. I liked that they took the time to discuss the past and hopes for the future, ensuring they were on the same page.
I liked seeing characters from earlier books and catching up with their lives. I'm looking forward to more stories about the Powells and their connections.
As a self-proclaimed romantic suspense junkie, I’m officially a hard-core Juno Rushdan fan now. I found her about five and a half years ago, and so far, I haven’t found a book of hers that I didn’t devour in only a few hours. I always know her books will be full of action, suspense, twists, turns, and thrills, leaving me begging for more. Wyoming Christmas Conspiracy is the fourth book in her newest series, Cowboy State Lawmen: Duty and Honor, and I am officially here for every fast-paced romantic suspense. This story is technically an interconnected standalone within the series, but I highly recommend reading all of the books in the correct order to better understand the family connections and how the secondary characters and their personalities fit into each successive book.
Amber and Monty butt heads from the beginning, but their chemistry is undeniable. There’s a lot of hurt to overcome, so on top of the suspense, there’s that to contend with. However, the story focuses more on the suspense than the romance, which I honestly prefer. This book’s plot was equal parts mystery and suspense, was well thought out, and came to a satisfying conclusion based on the characters’ circumstances. There’s nothing worse than a good suspense being ruined by a sloppy conclusion.
With lots of twists and turns, this romantic suspense immediately sucked me in, and it didn’t let go until the final page. If you’re a true romantic suspense fan like I am, do yourself a favor and grab this one today!
This is another barn burner by Juno Rushdan filled with mystery, danger, intrigue and a romance.
The opening scene starts a domino effect that continues to build as it is obvious someone is out for blood. From that point forward, it just continues to build and the tension is ratcheted up as the danger escalates.
Monty Powell and Amber Reyes belonged together. I could sense that from the first few chapters. However, family and dark secrets, as well as some past issues have caused distrust for them. With lives on the line, they will have to put aside their past differences and distrust and find a way to trust one another because their very survival is at risk.
This thrilling mystery was fraught with danger and twisty turns that will keep you glued to the pages. This series just keeps getting better. This book is a terrific addition to the Cowboy State Lawmen: Duty and Honor series. I cannot get enough of it.
Thank you to the author for this ARC. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Wyoming Christmas Conspiracy is the next exciting story in the Cowboy State Lawmen – Duty and Honor Series by Juno Rushdan. It starts out with a rush to the scene and a murder to be solve. The action never slows down. Amber and Monty have a long history knowing each other since childhood. Now they are so much more even more than Monty knows at the beginning of this book.
The characters are great with many from previous books making an appearance. This is a complicated story because of the dead woman as well as the fact that Monty is a suspect. He is the one suspect that a straight and narrow-minded detective wants to blame for the murder. Now Monty and Amber must find out who really committed the murder and why. It is a twisty tale with several complications and surprises along the way.
Another great story from an excellent suspense romance writer. Wyoming Christmas Conspiracy is an addictive read anytime of the year.
Such a great book.... the Powell name is linked with power but also a lot of responsibilities and Monty always rebelled....he is a loyal, good guy but hates being told what to do despite that he made mistakes and he cost him the love of his life....Amber Reyes.
Now accused of murder, he is surprised to find Amber fighting at his side and hope it could be the moment to settle the truth between them.....however now Amber has her own secret and tension from the past in the person of Waylon is getting in the way.The Detective may have a grudge against Monty he is still just and i liked that
Lot of tension , action, it's a real page turner with no moment to take a breath as the story deploy along the investigation and we discover more and more depths
Really a fabulous romance suspense can be read as a stand alone but even better while read in order
to be recommended without hesitation
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Another in the Cowboy State Lawmen: Duty and Honor series, in which Amber Reyes ran from what her late father wanted until she couldn't run anymore. When she returns, she finds that Monty Powell isn't the same man she ran from. But she still loves him and now she's carrying his child, but hasn't yet shared that bit of news with him. What's he going to say to her, do?
Then there's the problem of his entire family and Amber being in danger from a drug cartel intent on wreaking vengeance as a result of his arrest of a cartel leader. Now people are dying, first one young woman, Amber's half-sister, and then the woman's mother. How is that related to the danger Amber and Monty are in? All will be revealed, but not before she has to be rescued from the cartel members. Can Monty save her? Will the people who were in cahoots with the cartel also be revealed and put behind bars? Read to find out.
Wyoming Christmas Conspiracy is the 4th book in the Cowboy State Lawman :Duty and Honor series. Once again on of my favorite authors has hit this out of the ball park with her great writing ability. When Amber arrives earlier than expected to discuss something with her new half sister little did she expect to find Monty's vehicle there also. Knocking on the door it comes open and as she steps in she sees Monty passed out and covered in blood with a knife next to him and her half sister lying dead on the floor. What follows is an action packed book, full of many twists and turns. Expect the unexpected in this book. I would most definitely recommend it to others. I received and ARC from the author, and I am leaving my review voluntarily.
Oh wow!! This author drew me in from the very beginning of the story till the end!! Amber Reyes finds two unexpected surprises at her half sisters house. Her ex Monty Powell is accused of murder. With Amber in the line of fire, Monty does everything he can to protect her. Revenge, protecting a family legacy, friendship, falling in love, secrets and proving your innocence. You don't want to miss out on this intriguing, intense, action packed, sitting on the edge of your seat, heart stopping suspense with plenty of unexpected twists and turns!! I couldn't put it down!! I was given a complimentary copy. All opinions are my own!!
I love this action-packed suspenseful second chance romance. Even though Amber doesn't trust Monty with her heart, she doesn't believe that he is a viable suspect when she discovers him at a murder scene. Both of them have been snared and they need to find a way out. I received a copy of this book from the author. This is my honest and voluntarily given review. Once I started this book, I didn't want to put it down. There are plenty of twists and turns. The romance is secondary to the action and suspense, which makes it more believable. I also love that the story is told from both of their points of view.
Monty Powell and Amber Reyes are instantly relatable as characters, with their deep-seated connection and unspoken longing drawing you in. As the story progress their layered history is revealed—childhood friends turned lovers torn apart by secrets—and their journey toward trust feels authentic and deeply rewarding. The stakes couldn’t be higher as the two navigate the danger surrounding them while confronting the emotional scars of their past.
Wyoming Christmas Conspiracy is a must-read for fans of romantic suspense. It’s a perfect mix of danger, passion, and holiday magic—a story that will leave you breathless and eager for more. Highly recommended!
This is the 4th book in the “Cowboy State Lawman Duty and Honor Series.” If you have never read a Juno Rushdan book you have no idea what you’re missing. There is action packed adventure, mystery, mayhem, murder, romance, suspense, super sexy alpha cowboys, awesome heroines and plots that will keep you on the edge of your seat. The books in this series can be read as stand-alone and can be easily be followed with previous books in the series as many of the previous characters make appearances. Amber and Monty are totally awesome together all while someone is targeting him and his family.
I received an ARC via the author Juno Rushdan and I am leaving my review voluntarily.
Monty hurt Amber badly, but she knew he was no killer. She found the knife in his hand, but she still believed he was innocent. Not only did Amber and Monty have to navigate their rocky relationship but also an accusation of murder.
Evidence pointed to Monty as the killer, but things were not adding up. Would the police discover the killer before more people died?
I love this story. Like all of Juno Rushdan's tales, it will keep you on the edge of your seat from the first page, until the very last. I recommend this story to those who like second chance romance and romantic suspense. I look forward to what this author writes next.
another great book by JUNE Rush Dan when I got towards the end, I couldn’t wait to see how it ended. Oh Juna when does Book number five come out? This was really good. I thoroughly enjoyed it. It was a fast read for me. I was really enjoying what can I say? I just I find it tough to review books sometimes I’m I can tell people something. That’ll make them. Wanna read it but and I didn’t realize it was part four I mean because I’ve read some of your other books and I know some of the characters I was fine. I didn’t have no problem reading this as a standalone. Do you want a quick good read I suggest you read this book
Monty’s having a really bad few months and when the highlight of it is waking up near a dead body with this ex girlfriend is looking at him you know things must get a heck of a lot worse! Someone is targeting the whole Powell family in the most nail biting installment in this series and while I want to give it five stars, I felt Monty just needed a little more page time for me to get a sense of who he really is and what made him tick. We definitely got to know Waylon that way and I’m looking forward to the next book in the series to see what’s in store for him!
Juno Rushdan, a veteran US Air Force intelligence officer, is an exceptionally talented author who masterfully intertwines suspense, mystery, tension, and romance in her high-octane thrillers! I was completely glued to my seat this Christmas, captivated by Juno’s latest, WYOMING CHRISTMAS CONSPIRACY, and enthralled by the action-packed adrenaline rush!! The thriller kicks off with a high-profile homicide, with fingers pointing at Monty Powell, a member of a renowned family, as the prime suspect! The suspense intensifies with every page turn, right up until the very end!
ARC review. Christmas Conspiracy is the 4th book in Juno Rushdan’s Cowboy State Lawmen: Duty and Honor series. Juno delivers another action packed, fast moving emotional roller coaster of a story. Monty and Amber get a second chance at both love and life that shows that HEAs are possible. Rushdan always pulls so many unexpected threads as she weaves her masterpiece that it’s impossible to put the book down until the last page. Another winner and can’t wait for Wyoming Double Jeopardy, Waylon’s story.
This was such a quick, fun read and by fun I mean so many twists and turns. I couldn’t put it down because I NEEDED to know what was happening next.
I haven’t experienced head hopping in a novel in a while so this was a very welcome reintroduction. I didn’t have to wonder if Person A believed what was surely a lie or how the MCs felt about one another (even if they couldn’t admit it to each other).
The book flew by and I’m in awe of how the author was able to wrap up every plot point, add lots of action scenes, and make us believe in the love the couple has for one another.
Wyoming Christmas Conspiracy, in Juno Rushdan’s Cowboy State Lawmen: Duty and Honor series, had me on the edge of my seat. With perfectly timed action scenes and plot twists you won’t be expecting, this is a must-read for all those who enjoy suspense novels. Highly recommended.
My thanks to the author/publisher for the ARC of this book. I was under no obligation to provide a review, and the thoughts contained herein are my own.
I really enjoyed reading this one! It has it all. Suspense, action, emotions!! Amber had always loved Monty but thinks he only wants her land. Can he prove his feelings for her before one or both of them wind up dead. Someone is out to destroy them. With the help of family and friends, they must do whatever it takes to protect each other and survive. Loved every second of Amber and Monty’s story.
Loved the book, just too short. Monty Powell and Amber Reyes have history behind them that keeps them apart. Now she is returning home, and the legacy and family secrets try to get in the way of their future. How much danger are they both in and will they survive. Be sure and pick up this book to find out. You will not regret reading it.
This is book four in the Cowboy State Lawmen series by Juno Rushdan and it can be read as a standalone (but the previous books are all amazing as well!). I really enjoyed Monty and Amber's characters and the storyline was intriguing. I enjoyed the suspension and of course the romance! I would definitely recommend this book to anyone who loves romantic suspense!
This was an action packed story that really kept me engaged to the end. Amber and Monty were childhood friends that were brought together later on. There is so much more to the story than just second chance romance. Plenty of suspense and intrigue. While this is book four and can be read as a standalone, I’d highly suggest reading the entire series.
Each book in this series I’m enjoying a bit more. Like the previous book, this is more of a romance action book than mystery/suspense but there was one surprise reveal toward the end that gave me pause. The pacing is good and keeps you moving through the book. It took a bit before I liked Monty’s character but he did redeem his previous actions. This book can be read standalone.
The plot to this one is diabolical! Rushdan manages to connect this to previous installments in subtle ways that make the whole thing so much better. The romance between Monty and Amber relies on past experiences, but it works perfectly for this story. 4.5 stars