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Texas Ranger Heroes #1
Ranger Protection
When Dr. Tara Sims is robbed, she fights back to protect her daughter and nearly pays with her life. She’s rescued by Texas Ranger Grady West. Her childhood friend is now a handsome lawman, but Tara refuses to acknowledge the chemistry sparking between them. With a little girl to raise and a growing medical practice, she has no room in her life for romance.
Grady suspects the vicious assault wasn’t a random act. What he can’t figure out is why anyone would attack the single mother. He vows to protect Tara and her little girl while keeping his growing feelings for them out of the equation. Getting romantically involved with his sister’s best friend is more hazardous than hunting criminals.
As the threats escalate and evidence links the robbery to a homicide, Tara and Grady realize nothing is quite as it seems. Untangling a web of secrets makes them the target of a madman, and it’s only a matter of time before the killer strikes again…
Grady suspects the vicious assault wasn’t a random act. What he can’t figure out is why anyone would attack the single mother. He vows to protect Tara and her little girl while keeping his growing feelings for them out of the equation. Getting romantically involved with his sister’s best friend is more hazardous than hunting criminals.
As the threats escalate and evidence links the robbery to a homicide, Tara and Grady realize nothing is quite as it seems. Untangling a web of secrets makes them the target of a madman, and it’s only a matter of time before the killer strikes again…
250 pages, Hardcover
First published November 11, 2018
2470 people are currently reading
737 people want to read
About the author
Lynn Shannon
38 books374 followersLynn Shannon is a Publishers Weekly bestselling author of inspirational romantic suspense.
After moving from Texas to Greece, Lynn turned her passion for reading into a love of writing. She lives with her husband, two children, an extremely spoiled dog, and a pair of chirpy lovebirds. Experiencing life in a new country has introduced her to delicious foods—like Yemista and Kourabiedes—which now share a place on her favorites list alongside pecans and Blue Bell ice cream. She also never passes up coffee, chocolate, or the chance to watch cute animal videos.
You can sign up for her newsletter on her website at: www.lynnshannon.com
After moving from Texas to Greece, Lynn turned her passion for reading into a love of writing. She lives with her husband, two children, an extremely spoiled dog, and a pair of chirpy lovebirds. Experiencing life in a new country has introduced her to delicious foods—like Yemista and Kourabiedes—which now share a place on her favorites list alongside pecans and Blue Bell ice cream. She also never passes up coffee, chocolate, or the chance to watch cute animal videos.
You can sign up for her newsletter on her website at: www.lynnshannon.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 279 reviews
April 29, 2020
I am more of a pure romance enthusiast, and this is primarily a mystery thriller. I enjoyed how this novella kept my attention all the way through. The story was well-crafted, thus keeping my attention as new clues become known. It became apparent that the mystery thriller side of the story is dominant. The romance side of the story was adequate but secondary. I was pleased with the lack of any noticeable editorial errors, which I find to be a singular accomplishment. I am happy to award four-stars for this novella.
May 13, 2020
This was a quick and enjoyable read. I think the author did a great job with the characters development in such a short time and the plot was believable and entertaining. I think I'll continue with the series. And thanks to my new friend B.D. Mann and his amazing reviews for inspiring me to give this book a go along with many more that I've found on his READ list. :-)
Rating: PG -some violence, domestic issues
Language: a clean read
Recommend: yes
Rating: PG -some violence, domestic issues
Language: a clean read
Recommend: yes
October 13, 2023
Audiobook (narrated by Cindy Piller)
This romantic suspense is fast-paced with plenty of tension. It's also a quick read, so a great way to be introduced to a new series.
Robin’s Ratings
5🌟 = Out of this world. Amazing. Unforgettable. A personal favorite.
4🌟 = Loved/enjoyed it. Will recommend to others.
3🌟 = Liked it. Glad I read it. Engaging/entertaining/interesting.
2🌟 = The book was okay, but I’ve enjoyed other books so much more.
1🌟 = For whatever reason, I didn’t like it and can’t recommend it.
This romantic suspense is fast-paced with plenty of tension. It's also a quick read, so a great way to be introduced to a new series.
Robin’s Ratings
5🌟 = Out of this world. Amazing. Unforgettable. A personal favorite.
4🌟 = Loved/enjoyed it. Will recommend to others.
3🌟 = Liked it. Glad I read it. Engaging/entertaining/interesting.
2🌟 = The book was okay, but I’ve enjoyed other books so much more.
1🌟 = For whatever reason, I didn’t like it and can’t recommend it.
May 22, 2023
Very good book. I really liked Tara, she was a strong woman who did everything she could for her daugther and for herself. Grady was there for them and just waiting for the righy moment to confess his feelings for Tara. It was so obvious they liked each other, they were so cute
April 26, 2021
Another great read by Lynn Shannon.
April 28, 2021
Perfect Blend of Suspense and Romance
No graphic language or sex, just as it appeared in the book description. I'm always skeptical about suspense novels, but this one was all I hoped it would be. I didn't notice any technical issues, either.
Right from the start, the author pulled me into the plot and the action kept coming. I guess if I had to compare this story to something, I'd say it was a lot like Criminal Minds or NCIS, but with a smaller cast and the added draw of a sweet romance.
I'd recommend this to anyone who enjoys suspense, sweet romance, and action.
No graphic language or sex, just as it appeared in the book description. I'm always skeptical about suspense novels, but this one was all I hoped it would be. I didn't notice any technical issues, either.
Right from the start, the author pulled me into the plot and the action kept coming. I guess if I had to compare this story to something, I'd say it was a lot like Criminal Minds or NCIS, but with a smaller cast and the added draw of a sweet romance.
I'd recommend this to anyone who enjoys suspense, sweet romance, and action.
April 4, 2020
This book was really good. The ending was surprising and the characters were great. I’d definitely recommend this book.
May 2, 2020
This was a nice relaxing little book to read. Some of it was predictable and we always know the people that are in love will get together and live happily ever after.
January 16, 2023
Tara is a doctor in a small Texas town. She’s just adopted a baby girl and bad things start happening. Her best friend’s brother Grady is a Ranger and rescued her on more than one occasion. And they both realize they may feel more than friendly feelings for each other. But Tara and the baby are in danger. Grady needs to solve this case and protect what could be his forever family.
A very fast paced and quick to read romantic suspense story. This one had a couple of interesting twists, but you kind of know from the beginning who the guilty person is. So when it’s revealed, you’re not really that surprised.
But overall, a quick and interesting read.
A very fast paced and quick to read romantic suspense story. This one had a couple of interesting twists, but you kind of know from the beginning who the guilty person is. So when it’s revealed, you’re not really that surprised.
But overall, a quick and interesting read.
August 1, 2024
"“There’s nothing that can’t be fixed by chocolate and a great comedy."
I really liked this Texas Ranger themed read! This is my first read by this author, but it definitely won't be my last.
I read this through Kindle Unlimited and was not required to write a review. The thoughts written here are my own.
-Content review-
Mild language: screwed, screwed up used 2 times, gosh and fool used a couple times each.
-Trigger warnings-
One side character cuts themselves when they are angry or frustrated.
A few wounds other characters receive have quite a bit of blood.
I really liked this Texas Ranger themed read! This is my first read by this author, but it definitely won't be my last.
I read this through Kindle Unlimited and was not required to write a review. The thoughts written here are my own.
-Content review-
Mild language: screwed, screwed up used 2 times, gosh and fool used a couple times each.
-Trigger warnings-
One side character cuts themselves when they are angry or frustrated.
A few wounds other characters receive have quite a bit of blood.
December 13, 2020
I’m giving this one 3 stars as it was quick and I read it in one sitting. Had it been any longer it would have lost stars as it was very mediocre.
I hadn’t realised this was Christian fiction until a few things were just chucked in there. I have no problem with this I just felt it was unnecessary. The author should have fully committed to it or left it out.
This was a shallow novella and hasn’t convinced me to pick up any more of this author’s works. The writing was perfectly adequate just with no depth to it at all.
I hadn’t realised this was Christian fiction until a few things were just chucked in there. I have no problem with this I just felt it was unnecessary. The author should have fully committed to it or left it out.
This was a shallow novella and hasn’t convinced me to pick up any more of this author’s works. The writing was perfectly adequate just with no depth to it at all.
September 28, 2023
A great story with a sweet romance! Loved how clean and wholesome it was even with the mayhem going on.
Also, I loved that the author used every mom's grocery dilemma to start her story. That scene is one of many nightmare situations moms think about on the daily.
Also, I loved that the author used every mom's grocery dilemma to start her story. That scene is one of many nightmare situations moms think about on the daily.
July 7, 2025
A nice and concise, but action-packed, read. I super duper appreciate that the author didn't drag out anything. The "bad guy" felt super obvious to me, but following them solving the crimes was still interesting. 3.5/5 stars
July 17, 2021
A thrilling action, western romance!
Best friends make for the best marriages. I know for certain in my case my wife has always been my best friend. Strong, courages, intelligent with a good sense of humor makes the best package and they both fit the bill. A very good novel that I have enjoyed, thank you, Jack.
Best friends make for the best marriages. I know for certain in my case my wife has always been my best friend. Strong, courages, intelligent with a good sense of humor makes the best package and they both fit the bill. A very good novel that I have enjoyed, thank you, Jack.
October 14, 2019
WHAT IT'S ABOUT
When Dr. Tara Sims is robbed, she fights back to protect her daughter and nearly pays with her life. She’s rescued by Texas ranger Grady West. Her childhood friend is now a handsome lawman, but Tara refuses to acknowledge the chemistry sparking between them. With a little girl to raise and a growing medical practice, she has no room in her life for romance.
Grady suspects the vicious assault wasn’t a random act. What he can’t figure out is why anyone would attack the single mother. He vows to protect Tara and her little girl while keeping his growing feelings for them out of the equation. Getting romantically involved with his sister’s best friend is more hazardous than hunting criminals.
As the threats escalate and evidence links the robbery to a homicide, Tara and Grady realize nothing is quite as it seems. Untangling a web of secrets makes them the target of a madman, and it’s only a matter of time before the killer strikes again.
MY TAKE
This is my first book by Shannon, but it won't be my last. I found the story engaging and the characters fun. I enjoyed the mystery with the romance wrapped around it. I thought I knew who was behind it, but then Shannon threw up enough red herrings to make me wonder. There's was just one thing that made me drop it down to 4 1/2 stars.
I'll be looking for more books by this author.
I listened to the audiobook, and Cindy Piller did a great job with the narration.
When Dr. Tara Sims is robbed, she fights back to protect her daughter and nearly pays with her life. She’s rescued by Texas ranger Grady West. Her childhood friend is now a handsome lawman, but Tara refuses to acknowledge the chemistry sparking between them. With a little girl to raise and a growing medical practice, she has no room in her life for romance.
Grady suspects the vicious assault wasn’t a random act. What he can’t figure out is why anyone would attack the single mother. He vows to protect Tara and her little girl while keeping his growing feelings for them out of the equation. Getting romantically involved with his sister’s best friend is more hazardous than hunting criminals.
As the threats escalate and evidence links the robbery to a homicide, Tara and Grady realize nothing is quite as it seems. Untangling a web of secrets makes them the target of a madman, and it’s only a matter of time before the killer strikes again.
MY TAKE
This is my first book by Shannon, but it won't be my last. I found the story engaging and the characters fun. I enjoyed the mystery with the romance wrapped around it. I thought I knew who was behind it, but then Shannon threw up enough red herrings to make me wonder. There's was just one thing that made me drop it down to 4 1/2 stars.
I'll be looking for more books by this author.
I listened to the audiobook, and Cindy Piller did a great job with the narration.
May 1, 2019
I actually did enjoy this. The suspense was good, I really liked the characters and the romance, and the story kept my interest from beginning to end.
July 4, 2021
My thanks to reading buddy Tracey for pointing me in the direction of this series. I've only read one book by Lynn Shannon, a Love Inspired Suspense and that, along with Tracey's recommendation, gave me the courage to venture into this indie series -- especially since I could enjoy it on audible. And, I mean, really, who can resist a Texas Ranger series?! Not me, apparently. :-)
Ranger Protection has the trademark 'fast and furious' pacing of a Love Inspired Suspense but with a bit more frenzy due to the shorter length (I'm guessing.) This novel falls somewhere between a novella and a LIS so everything just zips along. Definitely the kind of read you could polish off in an afternoon, if you are the read-in-one-gulp type.
It's a bit edgier than a LIS partly courtesy of the occasional creepy bad guy POV. Intense in both suspense and romance (a kinda reunion romance, since they were childhood friends, though they never dated.) And I love the way the author establishes the background for the series, introducing some secondary characters that I'm sure will be featured in their own books. I'm definitely a Texas Ranger Heroes convert and am getting ready to download the second audible book...now!
Ranger Protection has the trademark 'fast and furious' pacing of a Love Inspired Suspense but with a bit more frenzy due to the shorter length (I'm guessing.) This novel falls somewhere between a novella and a LIS so everything just zips along. Definitely the kind of read you could polish off in an afternoon, if you are the read-in-one-gulp type.
It's a bit edgier than a LIS partly courtesy of the occasional creepy bad guy POV. Intense in both suspense and romance (a kinda reunion romance, since they were childhood friends, though they never dated.) And I love the way the author establishes the background for the series, introducing some secondary characters that I'm sure will be featured in their own books. I'm definitely a Texas Ranger Heroes convert and am getting ready to download the second audible book...now!
November 20, 2019
Tara is a new mom, juggling her family medical practice and raising her little girl alone. Grady is a Texas Ranger, healing from a recent injury. When Tara is attacked in the parking lot of the grocery store, Grady was in the checkout line and managed to save her and her daughter.
Though local police suspect that the incident might be related to some similar robberies, Grady suspects it’s more.
When Maddie is kidnapped Grady and Tara catch up in time to save her, but the plot thickens.
Tara will do anything she can to protect her little girl. Grady will do anything he can to protect the woman and child he loves even if it means keeping his feelings a secret. Will Tara try to keep her heart walled up?
And, as suspects arise, can they find out who wants Maddie in time to protect her?
This is a must read mystery and romance!
I received this book as anARC from Story Origin and I am giving a voluntary review.
Though local police suspect that the incident might be related to some similar robberies, Grady suspects it’s more.
When Maddie is kidnapped Grady and Tara catch up in time to save her, but the plot thickens.
Tara will do anything she can to protect her little girl. Grady will do anything he can to protect the woman and child he loves even if it means keeping his feelings a secret. Will Tara try to keep her heart walled up?
And, as suspects arise, can they find out who wants Maddie in time to protect her?
This is a must read mystery and romance!
I received this book as anARC from Story Origin and I am giving a voluntary review.
August 1, 2020
Not a bad length for a romance, and I don’t mind sex-free “clean” books..... but throw in the random prayer and religious hoopla and you’ve lost me. Won’t read from this author again.
November 2, 2022
4.25 stars
February 17, 2023
Texas Ranger Grady West is pulled back into a relationship with his childhood friend Dr. Tara Sims when he rescues her from a brutal attack in the parking lot of a local grocery store. Was the attack a robbery gone bad or something deeper? Was murder the true motive. When Tara’s adopted infant daughter is snatched, the questions multiply. Is the target Tara or her daughter.
A couple twists and turns in the mystery and a satisfying ending kept me reading.
As with most books in the Christian Suspense Romance genre, the story is a bit formulaic. But like a good Hallmark romance movie, the story was a light, fun ride. Lynn Shannon does a good job of driving the plot forward through suspense and action without sacrificing the underlying romance. I enjoyed Ranger Protection as a quick, light read and recommend it for anyone looking for clean, contemporary romance suspense with Christian themes.
A couple twists and turns in the mystery and a satisfying ending kept me reading.
As with most books in the Christian Suspense Romance genre, the story is a bit formulaic. But like a good Hallmark romance movie, the story was a light, fun ride. Lynn Shannon does a good job of driving the plot forward through suspense and action without sacrificing the underlying romance. I enjoyed Ranger Protection as a quick, light read and recommend it for anyone looking for clean, contemporary romance suspense with Christian themes.
December 13, 2019
I have been wanting to try this author's books for quite a while, so of course I jumped at the chance to request a review copy of this book.
Ranger Protection is a great romantic suspense read that I really enjoyed! I really liked main characters Tara and Grady, and was rooting for them from the start!
Even though this book is short and makes for a great quick read, it has a lot of action and suspense that was very well balanced with the lovely romance that was developing between Tara and Grady.
Ranger Protection is a very good read that I highly recommend, and I look forward to reading more of Lynn Shannon's books in the future!
I received an audiobook copy of this book from the publisher. Which did not influence my review in any way. All thoughts and opinions are one hundred percent my own!
Ranger Protection is a great romantic suspense read that I really enjoyed! I really liked main characters Tara and Grady, and was rooting for them from the start!
Even though this book is short and makes for a great quick read, it has a lot of action and suspense that was very well balanced with the lovely romance that was developing between Tara and Grady.
Ranger Protection is a very good read that I highly recommend, and I look forward to reading more of Lynn Shannon's books in the future!
I received an audiobook copy of this book from the publisher. Which did not influence my review in any way. All thoughts and opinions are one hundred percent my own!
May 13, 2020
This is one of those books that I started and three hours later finished! I'm not a cogitation person, I like action and dialogue and this story gave me both.
Tara and Grady have known each other for a lot of year, he's her best friends older brother. He's been falling in love with her for nearly a year but doesn't want to wreck their friendship so he just keeps acting as usual around her - her too. One of her friends and a neighbor is killed and she finds out that she has named her as guardian of her baby - on the day the adoption is finalized she is attacked at the grocery store, and then a few days later someone tries to kidnap the baby. Grady, a Texas Ranger goes into full protection mode until they can figure out who is trying to take the baby - and that keeps changing with every new clue, just like the perpetrator had planned!
This is a clean romance.
Tara and Grady have known each other for a lot of year, he's her best friends older brother. He's been falling in love with her for nearly a year but doesn't want to wreck their friendship so he just keeps acting as usual around her - her too. One of her friends and a neighbor is killed and she finds out that she has named her as guardian of her baby - on the day the adoption is finalized she is attacked at the grocery store, and then a few days later someone tries to kidnap the baby. Grady, a Texas Ranger goes into full protection mode until they can figure out who is trying to take the baby - and that keeps changing with every new clue, just like the perpetrator had planned!
This is a clean romance.
November 9, 2018
Tara Sims and Grady West were childhood friends. When she is shopping and is attacked in the car park she does what she must to protect her daughter Grey leaves the same shop and finds the little girl crying in a shopping trolley Whe he searches he finds Tara almost dead. Who would want to attack a young single mother and why does he have the feeling this is more than a random attack. He vows to keep them both safe but as danger gets ever closer the spark between these two friends ignites into something more. Will they all survive and will they get a chance at a HEA.
I was given a copy of this book but this is true and honest review
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I was given a copy of this book but this is true and honest review
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 3, 2019
Ranger Protection
: Lynn Shannon
This is a clean Texas romance with a cold case murder to solve. A quick listen.
Dr. Tara Sims and her adopted baby girl are in danger from a masked man in the grocery store parking lot. Texas ranger Grady West, recently returned to town saved them. The two had been friends since childhood and deeper feelings start to develop. The criminal returns and the suspense deepens. There are plenty of suspects and lots of clues. Will Grady be able to protect Tara and Maddie or will evil win?
The narration was well done. The characters were well portrayed by Cindy Piller.
I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.
: Lynn Shannon
This is a clean Texas romance with a cold case murder to solve. A quick listen.
Dr. Tara Sims and her adopted baby girl are in danger from a masked man in the grocery store parking lot. Texas ranger Grady West, recently returned to town saved them. The two had been friends since childhood and deeper feelings start to develop. The criminal returns and the suspense deepens. There are plenty of suspects and lots of clues. Will Grady be able to protect Tara and Maddie or will evil win?
The narration was well done. The characters were well portrayed by Cindy Piller.
I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.
April 4, 2020
I absolutely loved this book. It is the first book ai have read by this author but it will definitely not be last. It had the perfect mix of romance, mystery, suspense, and love. The characters and story were well developed. It was a quick read and definitely kept my interest.
Tara is a doctor in a small town in Texas. She has just adopted the young daughter of her friend that was murdered. She has been the target of multiple attacks and her friend, Grady, a Texas Ranger, comes to her rescue and tries to help solve the mystery and find the killer before Tara and Maddy are harmed. There is a sweet romance building between Grady and Tara, too.
I checked this book from the Amazon Prime Library and I willingly offer my honest review.
Tara is a doctor in a small town in Texas. She has just adopted the young daughter of her friend that was murdered. She has been the target of multiple attacks and her friend, Grady, a Texas Ranger, comes to her rescue and tries to help solve the mystery and find the killer before Tara and Maddy are harmed. There is a sweet romance building between Grady and Tara, too.
I checked this book from the Amazon Prime Library and I willingly offer my honest review.
April 5, 2021
Let your heart guide you!
Ah! Grady and Tara are both such awesome characters, yes Tara is petrified to risk her heart and love, BUT she didn't hesitate to change her life completely and adopt Maddy. And she constantly fights like a Mama Bear to keep her safe, helpfully assisted by the gorgeous Grady.
Tara and Maddy being in danger makes Grady finally admit just how he feels about them and he knows better than anyone how short life can be, but he also knows Tara has walls....so he needs everyone of his skills to break down those walls and sweep her off her feet before her head can overrule her heart! Can he keep them safe, solve the case and steal her heart?
I loved this first book in the series and cannot wait to read the next, this whole series is available on Kindle Unlimited.
Ah! Grady and Tara are both such awesome characters, yes Tara is petrified to risk her heart and love, BUT she didn't hesitate to change her life completely and adopt Maddy. And she constantly fights like a Mama Bear to keep her safe, helpfully assisted by the gorgeous Grady.
Tara and Maddy being in danger makes Grady finally admit just how he feels about them and he knows better than anyone how short life can be, but he also knows Tara has walls....so he needs everyone of his skills to break down those walls and sweep her off her feet before her head can overrule her heart! Can he keep them safe, solve the case and steal her heart?
I loved this first book in the series and cannot wait to read the next, this whole series is available on Kindle Unlimited.
May 2, 2024
This was a great start to this series. I started this series with book 6 and am now going back to restart it all in order. I'm excited to see more of these characters in future. This book has a sweet baby caught in the middle of it all that really ramps up the stakes. I listened to this book on audio and that did put a damper on some things because the narrator did not have specific voices for each character and tended to use the same voice interchangeably depending on the level of inflection and it made it difficult to tell who was saying what. However, the story itself was great. I was caught up in it and there was plenty of faith, family, suspense, and romance. I like the ranger angle for this series. Super fun. I'm looking forward to the next book.
August 5, 2024
This is my first book to read from this author and also in a genre I usually do not pick. However, I found the description of the book to be one that made me want to read it. And I am so glad I did! Her writing is flawless and has just enough romance to keep you reading to see if the two main characters fall in love. Since this is also a murder mystery, I found that I had a hard time putting it down even when I went to bed!
The story is about Tara, who has adopted her friend's baby after she was murdered. And about the ranger who wants to protect her and the baby.
And to make it even more enjoyable, this is a clean romance/murder mystery. I'm looking forward to reading more from this author.
Highly recommend!
The story is about Tara, who has adopted her friend's baby after she was murdered. And about the ranger who wants to protect her and the baby.
And to make it even more enjoyable, this is a clean romance/murder mystery. I'm looking forward to reading more from this author.
Highly recommend!
October 5, 2019
This is a new author for me , and I was anxious to give her a try. Glad I did.
The story belongs to Dr Tara Sims and Texas Ranger Grady West. They were childhood friends, but went their separate ways. She became a physician and is now a mom after adopting a baby and he a Ranger who after 10 years of undercover work and an injury is back home.
When she’s attacked and is obviously in danger, the friendship and attraction grows.
This is a story filled with twists and turns, whodunit as well as hope and romance.
A good introduction to this series , one that is brought to life by the talented narrator.
The story belongs to Dr Tara Sims and Texas Ranger Grady West. They were childhood friends, but went their separate ways. She became a physician and is now a mom after adopting a baby and he a Ranger who after 10 years of undercover work and an injury is back home.
When she’s attacked and is obviously in danger, the friendship and attraction grows.
This is a story filled with twists and turns, whodunit as well as hope and romance.
A good introduction to this series , one that is brought to life by the talented narrator.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 279 reviews