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★ He was supposed to be dead. She was supposed to move on. Some loves won't stay buried.

The last person Sierra Blackwood expects to see is the man whose memorial service she attended three years ago.

For ten years, she's raised their son alone, told him his father died a hero, and built a life from the ashes of broken promises. Now Rowan "Hammer" Wallace is back—no explanation, no apology, just those devastating blue eyes and a presence that fills every empty space she's tried to heal.

He doesn't know about the boy. And she doesn't know if she can survive losing him again.
But there's no time for second chances when a killer has you in their crosshairs.

Someone wants Sierra's ranch—and they're willing to burn down everything she loves to get it. Poisoned livestock. Mysterious fires. And when armed men kidnap Sierra and her ten-year-old son, Rowan must confront the violent stepfather who drove him away to save the family he never knew existed.

In the mountains of Colorado, the past never stays buried. And some men never stop fighting for what's theirs.

Perfect for fans Second-chance romance with heartChristian romantic suspenseCowboy heroes with dangerous pastsSmall-town settings with big secretsMilitary romance/Wounded warrior storiesFamily drama and redemption arcs

Faith Forgiveness Fatherhood Justice Homecoming Secrets & Lies Redemption Small-Town Community Ranch Life Overcoming the Past

Start the Heroes of Renegade series today and discover why readers can't get enough of this pulse-pounding romantic suspense!

Book 1 in Heroes of Renegade series. Complete story with HEA, but the series continues!

Paperback

Published March 17, 2026

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About the author

Susan May Warren

220 books3,810 followers
I can't help be amazed at the gifts God has delighted me with - a wonderful husband, four amazing children, and the opportunity to write for Him.

I've been writing as long as I can remember - I won my first book writing contest in first grade! Over the years, writing has become, for me, a way to praise God and see Him at work in my life.

Although I have a degree in Mass Communications from the University of MN, my real writing experience started when I penned the The Warren Report - a bi-monthly newsletter that detailed our ministry highlights.

Living in Russia meant I never lacked for great material - and those experiences naturally spilled out first into devotionals and magazine articles and finally into my first published story, "Measure of a Man," in the Tyndale/HeartQuest, Chance Encounters of the Heart anthology.

Susan and husbandI grew up in Wayzata, a suburb of Minneapolis, and became an avid camper from an early age. My favorite fir-lined spot is the north shore of Minnesota - it's where I met my husband, honeymooned and dreamed of living. The north woods easily became the foundation for my first series, The Deep Haven series.based on a little tourist town along the shores of Lake Superior. I have to admit - I'm terribly jealous of Mona, the heroine of my first full-length book, Happily Ever After, a Christy Award Finalist published in 2004 with Tyndale/Heartquest.

Our family moved home from the mission field in June 2004 -- and now we live in the beautiful town I'd always dreamed of! God has amazed me anew with His provision, and blessings -- and allowed me a season when I can write full time for Him.

I 'm delighted you've stopped in to visit. My hope is that you'll be blessed and encouraged by soul-stirring stories of regular people interacting with a God who loves them.

I'd love to hear from you! I love getting mail, especially from readers and I welcome your questions and comments. Write to me at susan@susanmaywarren.com. And, if you're interested, sign up for my newsletter, a quarterly sneak peek into upcoming releases and projects. Thank you for your interest and support.

God Bless and Happy Reading!

In His Grip,
Susan May Warren

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 89 reviews
Profile Image for Reading in the Heartland (Michaela).
3,790 reviews96 followers
February 6, 2026
This Christian romantic suspense is so good! I’ve been following the Trouble Boys through multiple series and I loved getting some background information on Hammer and Mack. I did not want to put this book down for anything. Sierra has been raising her son Huck alone for the past 10 years. Her high school sweetheart went off to war and died. Or so she thought. Rowen - Hammer - has been presumed dead since a military op went wrong because of corruption that put lives in danger. And now he’s back. But he doesn’t know that Huck is his. With ranches around the area being targeted for theft and vandalism, his goal is to keep Sierra and Huck safe. However, as secrets come out, they draw closer than ever as the danger escalates. This book had it all: faith, suspense, romance, family, friends, ranching, and so much more. The twists and turns hit me out of nowhere and kept me rapidly turning the pages. This book is best started when you can escape from the responsibilities of life for hours and just binge it from start to finish - because you’ll never want to let it go. I cannot wait to see where this new series takes us! I’m loving being in Colorado for it and am thrilled with the beloved characters we’ve seen so far. The romance is just kisses, intimacy level 1.

I received an eARC of this book from the author and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
Profile Image for Jeanne Alfveby Crea.
1,019 reviews110 followers
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
March 8, 2026
A captivating, heartwarming, and healing story. I could not put it down, I literally read until I finished at 3 am.

Sierra Blackwood has been raising her sweet son alone for 10 years, after his father went into the military and never returned. She attended his funeral three years ago. She has tried to move on, but cannot get past losing her person. She lived with her grandfather after her parents died, and now his recent death is suspicious. She is having a hard time running the family ranch by herself. Ranchers, including Sierra, who declined invitations to sell their ranches, are missing cattle, and having their water tainted. Whoever wants their land is escalating problems for these ranchers. How much more loss can she handle?

Rowan "Hammer" Wallace shows up from the dead and shocks everyone, especially Sierra. He wants to help protect her and her son, and her ranch if she'll let him. He had a difficult young adulthood and a good reason to leave, but why was he declared dead?

Absolutely delightful story of healing and second chances in the middle of danger and mystery. I highly recommend Renegade by Susan May Warren, and I can't wait for the next one in the series.

Thank you to Sunrise Publishing for allowing me to read an early copy. All opinions are my own.
844 reviews16 followers
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
February 12, 2026
Renegade brings back some familiar names!

You will love following Hammer's story and hear more about his troubled past. Unfortunately the past always catches up with us and has ramifications.

Sierra is tough as nails and has put up walls around her heart. Lots of bad things are happening around her property and the bullseye seems to be on her.

Huck is the best character in the book. He is 10 and is quite the cowboy. His love for the land and the family is so sweet!

Thanks to Sunrise Publishing for the arc. The opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Dana.
244 reviews
March 23, 2026
I’ve sat with this one for a few days because let’s just be honest there are some books that are so so good that you can’t even literally find the right word to express it. Susan May Warren delivers every single time she writes a book. I knew this series was gonna be exceptional but it exceeded my expectations. Such a really really amazing first in a new series that’s gonna blow you away. I love how she weaves the characters from other stories into every single book and leaves you feeling like you just have this little family. When you read about characters in previous books you just go, “oh yeah, I remember them and loved them, yes they got their own stories.”
If I had to choose a favorite character(s) it would be definitely be our two MC’s Rowan and Sierra. You’ll love them too.

I received a complimentary copy of this book and was not required to give a positive review. All thoughts and opinions are all my own.
Profile Image for theliterateleprechaun .
2,694 reviews206 followers
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
February 7, 2026
Rowan ‘Hammer’ Wallace is our hero in Renegade, the first installment of the Heroes of Renegade series set in Colorado. He’s an unusual hero in that he was presumed dead, a funeral was held, and his loved ones learned to live with his absence. His return to Renegade is shocking, and his loved ones struggle with sharing long-buried secrets. Warren shows us how difficult it is to return to how things used to be and to make space for a loved one you’d already mourned.

The themes of this book are learning to ask for help and learning to lean into healing. The gentle faith thread running throughout this story reminds us that God has a plan for everything.

I absolutely loved Warren touching on the value of letting love lead when we’re emotionally affected by our circumstances. It’s easier to live by our emotions and to let panic, fear, and hate rule our heads, but Sierra learns to do the hard thing because it’s the right thing to do and because she’s leading with her heart. Warren capably and instantly placed me in Sierra’s cowboy boots, allowing me to enter into her struggle, making the choices she had to make seem like I was facing them, too.

I’ll remember this book for the two options her characters faced in dealing with challenges: they could give up OR they could believe that something bigger than themselves was able to carry them through the experience. I’m fiercely independent, a driven perfectionist, and I cling to past hurts, so this was a much-needed book for me. I think we could all do with the gentle reminder to lean into healing and allow love to see the potential in our experience.

This stellar series debut about love, family, and faith is worthy of all the stars!

I was gifted this copy and was under no obligation to provide a review.
Profile Image for Jo|Ruth Reads.
761 reviews94 followers
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
February 5, 2026
When the love of your life, that you thought was dead, shows up not only alive but still having feelings for you... life changing! But then add in the fact you were hiding the fact he has a son from him all those years... things are going to get a bit difficult before they get beautiful. But gosh, will it all be worth it!

I absolutely loved this book! I knew the moment I started reading that I was completely and totally hooked. If you like second chance romance stories with suspense, mystery, found family vibes, and even a redemptive arc, this is the book you need to be reading. And how fitting is it that it is book one in the series? I have a feeling this whole series is going to be a set of page turners!

Rowan (Hammer) is back in town, but the town believes he died years ago. Sierra, the woman he left behind, has grieved him and possibly moved on... But now he is back for her. What Rowan does not expect is someone sabotaging Sierra’s ranch, putting her and her son Huck's life at risk, and discovering that her son is actually his?! Suddenly, Rowan has more at stake than he ever imagined! With poisoned cattle, neighbors getting shot, and unanswered deaths, nothing is adding up. Now that Rowan is back, he has to win back Sierra’s trust, get to know his son, and fight to keep them all alive in the process!

This book is a true page turner! The chemistry between Rowan and Sierra is so sweet, and Huck is an absolute highlight of the story. Watching him and Rowan connect so naturally before learning the truth was the sweetest thing! I can not wait to see what is next in this series.

I received a complimentary copy. This review reflects my honest opinion.
Profile Image for Alyssa Amey Madjeski.
368 reviews28 followers
March 11, 2026
This fast-paced romantic suspense grabbed me from the first page. It didn’t take long for me to get completely invested in this new series set in Renegade, CO. I’m not as up to date with my Susan May Warren series reading as I’d like to be, but while there were a couple name drops I probably should have recognized, it didn’t impact my read at all. I don’t think at this point this series is intricately connected to the others beyond some shared history.

There’s some sinister stuff going on in Renegade, and Rowan Wallace isn’t about to let it continue to impact his former girlfriend Sierra. The woman who thinks he’s dead from a military operation, and never got to tell him he has a 10 year old son. I loved Sierra and Huck and their resilience. But I loved even more the family they were able to become when reunited with Rowan. Yeah, there’s some tension. It’s hard for Sierra to open up when she realizes Rowan let her think he was dead. It’s hard for Rowan to come to terms with missing 10 years of Huck’s life. But they also never stopped loving one another, and their (mostly) mature reactions and conversations were a favorite part of this story for me.

The suspense is top-notch as always. The pacing had me racing my kindle’s “time left in the book” because I kept reading faster and faster to get to the end. The plot thickens near the end with a good twist! It also sets up the rest of the series and I can’t wait to get my hands on the rest of these books.

I received a complementary copy of this book from Sunrise Publishing. I was not asked to leave a positive review and my opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Tammy Lunsford - Escape to Books By Tammy.
2,175 reviews75 followers
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
March 17, 2026
I have to say it took me a few chapters to get into this book, but once I started getting into it, I did not come up for air. This suspense-filled mystery kept me up late into the night.

Sierra Blackwood put Rowan "Hammer" Wallace in her rear view mirror a long time ago, even more so after she attended his memorial service when he was killed in action. But she cannot escape him because she sees his face everyday in their son, Huck. Now the man she thought was dead is standing in front of her. She wants to punch him, as well as push him away, but she needs his protection. For now, feelings will have to take a back seat as she is in grave danger.

Emotional detachment is an impossibility for these characters, no matter how hard they try to prove otherwise. I felt such empathy for both characters and could see both sides of the story and the grief that went along with their journey. They both had been dealt a raw hand, but they also knew what a second chance could mean for both of them.

The danger and threats escalate each chapter to a rising crescendo to a point that almost broke my heart. Rowan is a true hero in every sense of the word, but I also say Sierra was just as a much of hero, just in a different way.

My take from this story is that true healing requires forgiveness, even when that forgiveness is bitter coming out of the mouth. With God all things are possible, and forgiveness gives freedom that is bittersweet.

Thank you to Sunrise Publishing for this ARC. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Profile Image for Rosalyn.
1,291 reviews32 followers
March 19, 2026
This story is definitely a typical SMW novel - it starts off with a bang - you find yourself in the middle of the action from the very first page.

I loved the setting and the characters. I really enjoyed getting to know these people.

Sierra was a great heroine. She's had to learn how to depend on herself. She's determined to stay on her family's ranch, her one legacy she can leave for her son. But now, it's looking more and more like someone else is determined to force her to leave.

And then, there's Rowan... well, he was also perfect for his position as the hero. Except for the fact that he and Sierra had a history. Yes, a difficult one. And she wanted nothing to do with him.

What made this story even more interesting was getting to know their backstory. And then, watching their relationship grow.

This story is full of action, twists, turns, danger, suspense, and so much more! Just what I've come to expect from any story written by Susan May Warren.

It was a fun read, and I definitely recommend you check it out!

                Disclaimer: I receive complimentary books from various sources, including, publishers, publicists, authors, and/or NetGalley. I am not required to write a positive review, and have not received any compensation. The opinions shared here are my own entirely.  I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255
Profile Image for Amy.
580 reviews11 followers
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
February 3, 2026
Renegade storms into the Susan May Warren universe with unending love and fierce protectiveness, and it doesn't get any better than this!

Renegade is everything I want in the first book in a new series (and, let's be real, just in every book always): it introduces a great setting and the people who live there, complete with setting up controversy and conflict between both the people and that setting. When you add in the amazing lead characters, high stakes action, tender romantic moments, and lots of wise lessons, this is a book you won't be able to put down.

I sure didn't. I read it in one sitting. I absolutely loved the father/son lessons, the found family concept, and the goal of honoring one's history and legacy. Renegade is meaningful on many levels, and I found myself highlighting line after line that I wanted to come back to and ponder.

Renegade encapsulates what we need more of: people willing to look out for each other, to put love into action, and to live out their beliefs. This novel has old-fashioned ideals with real life heroes and modern action - and it's a fantastic mix. Keep'em coming, please, Susan May Warren.

I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
21 reviews
March 29, 2026
“'Just handle what comes at you, one problem at a time.""

Renegade is the start of a new series. Susan May Warren start of the series with a nonstop thriller.

Sierra Blackwood is struggling to keep her family ranch a float and raise her son. When her first love walks back into her life, Sierra doesn’t know what to do. Rowan “Hammer” Wallace is a man back from the dead. It was supposed to be a quick stop to check on Sierra and then move on. But once Rowan hears she’s in trouble, he will do anything to protect the woman who holds his heart.

I loved reading Sierra and Rowan’s story. I’ve always been curious about Rowan since he has been a background character in the Chasing Fire series. This was perfect. It had romance, finding faith in God, some mystery and second chance. This was a fast pace book and once I’ve started I didn’t want to put it down.

Renegade is the first one in the series of Heroes of Renegade. There’s two mysteries in the book. The first one is who is sabotaging Sierra’s ranch and who is part of the Shadow Syndicate. I can’t wait to continue the series to learn more about the Shadow Syndicate.


These thoughts and opinions are my own. Thanks Sunrise Publishing for the arc.
Profile Image for Kelly Bridgewater.
1,228 reviews65 followers
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
March 16, 2026
Renegade by Susan May Warren is a tale of second chances. With mishaps happening on the ranch, the heroine must work hard to keep her family ranch intact and moving forward. As for plot, it was my favorite part. A little bit of mystery with a brave heroine and hero trying to fight the mishaps happening and trying to keep their running emotions in check. The romance is predictable and readers will know how the romance will play out. As for the plot, it seems to go one way, then Warren throws in a different loop in the climactic moment, allowing readers to keep flipping through the pages. The setting is nicely handled. I had no issue with seeing the ranch and all town where the action occurred. I love how Warren crafts characters that always have heart. I mean that they appear to truly fall in love and know what they want right away and nothing will stand in their way. Overall, Renegade by Susan May Warren is a fast-paced novel with a mystery and romance that ties the story nicely together. I can’t wait to see what the rest of the series brings.

I received a complimentary copy of Renegade by Susan May Warren from Sunrise Publishing, but the opinions stated are all my own.
Profile Image for Chelsea.
1,492 reviews17 followers
April 9, 2026
Ok, I had to take a star off because I thought it was pretty unbelievable that no one in the town said anything to Rowan about his son, since everyone knew he was the father (and didn't Mack know before all of this??). But, overlooking that, the story was a lot of fun! It was well-paced, never slowing down for long. I liked the two main characters, and how they tried to work through things together. The side characters were also written well, and I liked that it was clearly setting up for the next book without taking away from the main story. Huck was great, and I always appreciate when children are written well (instead of too smart/immature for their age or just flat) when they are important characters. There were a few times where the characters inner thoughts were a bit jumbled or repetitive, but other than that the writing was good. I would read the next one in the series.

Content: non-graphic references to intimacy, mild innuendo, mild violence.


I received this book free from the publisher/author. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
Profile Image for Ashley.
1,205 reviews50 followers
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
March 14, 2026
I loved this book so much! It had everything I love in a good romantic suspense! It was so action-packed. There was cattle rustling, vandalism, theft, a dangerous killer, and so much more! I couldn’t read it fast enough.

I was so excited to learn more about the Trouble Boys. I’ve been curious about them for a while now.

Things were complicated between Sierra and Rowan, to say the least. He’s back from the dead and has to earn her trust back after such a huge deception. Then, add their son Huck to the mix, the son he didn’t know about, and yeah, complicated sums it up. I really liked them both, though, and thought Huck was an adorable kid. I was rooting for everything to work out.

The first chapter grabbed my attention immediately and didn’t let go until the final word. It was such a compelling read! If you’re a fan of faith-filled romantic suspense, run and grab a copy of this book. You won’t be disappointed. I’m really looking for the next book in the series!

I received a copy of this book and voluntarily reviewed it. All thoughts and comments are my honest opinion.
34 reviews2 followers
May 1, 2026
Renegade by Susan May Warren

This new series by Susan May Warren & Lisa Phillips “Renegade” is fantastic! It grabs you from page 1 and you just can’t put it down! It is heartwarming, captivating, and full of intense mystery! It is about Sierra Blackwood and Rowan Wallace, and their 10 yr old child, Huck. They were best friends as children, then high school sweethearts, (who had a baby that he didn’t know about until he returned to CO to see Sierra).
This story is about redemption, love, greed, justice and family. It is set in Renegade, Colorado, with ranching, cowboys, mineral rights, and good and bad guys. It is full of adventures— fires, poison, kidnapping, shooting, etc. The best thing is the scripture woven throughout, which keeps you focused on what is most important, God’s love for us! Great plot twists throughout the story.

Rowan became a leader of a Delta Force team in the Army. Each story in this series is about a team member.

You will love it! I can’t wait till book 2 comes out to read about Luca Saxon aka “Warrior”.
Profile Image for Betti.
1,423 reviews36 followers
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
February 25, 2026
God has a plan for everything - even this…..

This incredible story starts a new series with the stories of the Heroes of Renegade, a small town in Colorado. Sierra Blackwood, along with her young son Huck, own the ranch that has been in the family for generations. Along with the questionable death of her grandfather Elway, there has been cattle rustling, equipment vandalism and more. Will the return of her ‘dead’ boyfriend change anything?Rowan ‘Hammer Wallace returns to his hometown unprepared for all that has happened in 10 years. Will the memories of the past resurface bringing vengeance along with them?

A record of corporate terrorism, greed and more comes to light. Deaths aren’t accidents and fires don’t start by themselves. The only sure thing is that God has it all in control. The question is - will they have the faith to wait?

An early copy was received through Sunrise Publishing and BookFunnel. These thoughts are my own and were in no way solicited.
Profile Image for Deena Peterson.
1,238 reviews6 followers
March 21, 2026
This book has it all Cattle rustling, cowboys, broken hearts, a single mom going it alone, murder, and a resurrection.

Wait! What? Rowan “Hammer” Wallace died in action while serving his country. Or did he? Just what happened on that battlefield?

Turns out, nope! He’s alive and back in Sierra Blackwood’s life, like it or not. And trust me, she doesn’t. But she needs his help to save her ranch and protect her son.

Renegade is the first in a brand new series and it’s high octane from the first page. Secrets abound, someone is out to destroy the ranch and will stop at nothing to get what he or she wants.

And Rowan has unfinished business with Sierra. I think I stopped breathing at one point, turning pages and racing to the unexpected but makes perfect sense end.

I received an advance copy from the publisher. I’m under no obligation and my review has not been solicited. Very highly recommend!
Profile Image for Beth.
499 reviews1 follower
April 1, 2026
I say this every time, but no one writes Romantic Suspense like Susan May Warren. I promise there will be no spoilers but I also promise that my jaw DROPPED when the person targeting Sierra and her ranch was revealed!

I loved everything about this story. I loved that Hammer finally got a happy ending (And I cannot wait for Saxon's book!), Sierra's determination to keep her ranch, Huck, Morrie, and even Mike. All of the characters in this novel set the stage for what I can already tell is going to be an awesome series!

Rowan and Sierra's second choice story was written so beautifully! I loved how they came back together like no time had passed, how they worked passed old hurts through communication and how their love truly conquered all the hardships they faced. Definitely a role model couple for sure!

As always, faith played a big role in this novel and Susan always manages to touch my heart with the faith her characters find. I am ready for more Renegade stories for sure!:)
Profile Image for Joan Arning.
1,808 reviews29 followers
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
March 10, 2026
Imagine your reaction if the man you loved ten years ago and whose memorial service you attended showed up on your doorstep! Sierra has raised her son alone, telling him that his father died a miliary hero but here he is! Sierra and her son, Huck, live on the ranch she inherited when her grandfather died a year ago. Now two neighboring ranchers have also died or been killed! Rowan "Hammer" Wallace intended to make a quick trip back to his roots but Sierra needs help. There is plenty of mystery and action as Rowan assists the local law enforcement track down why Sierra's cows are disappearing and her barn is burned. Renegade is a dangerous but sweet story of what can happen when the truth comes out! I recommend this book to others. I received an advance complimentary e-book from Sunrise Publications. This is my honest opinion.
Profile Image for Courtney Dawn.
838 reviews14 followers
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
March 19, 2026
I was hooked on this story from the very first chapter. There’s something about a “he was supposed to be dead” trope that immediately raises the stakes—and this one delivered on every level. When Rowan “Hammer” Wallace walks back into Sierra’s life after ten years, the emotional tension is instant, raw, and completely consuming.

Sierra has spent a decade rebuilding her life and raising her son alone, believing the man she loved was gone forever. Watching her face the shock, the hurt, and the impossible choices that come with Rowan’s return was so powerful. And Rowan? A wounded warrior with a past he can’t outrun and a heart that never stopped loving her—he absolutely stole my heart.

The romance is tender, faith-filled, and deeply emotional, built on forgiveness, healing, and learning to trust again. Add in a high-stakes suspense plot—targeted ranches, mounting danger, and a kidnapping that had my heart racing—and I genuinely couldn’t put this down.

What stood out most was the theme of choosing love over fear. This story beautifully shows that healing isn’t instant, but it’s possible when you let God lead and allow others in.

This is an unforgettable start to a new series, and I already can’t wait for more from this world.

ARC Review: I received an advanced reading copy, and all thoughts are my own.
35 reviews1 follower
March 17, 2026
I grew up in Colorado, so I'm always curious to see what familiar authors make of my home state.
In Renegade, the second-chance plot, hints of something larger at play, and the simple joys of reading about kids adjusting to new people in their life left me with a full heart. Susie May Warren and Lisa Phillips have done it again. The 'trouble boys' were a highlight of the Chasing Fire: Alaska series, and now we get to fill in some blanks as they come back to civilian life.
I'm always surprised how intricately Warren and Phillips can weave family traumas and redemption with the local wildlife and a nice sunset. If you need an escape from a busy spring break, put your feet up and let your favorite authors sweep you away for a spell. Rowan, Sierra, and Huck have a special story and you won't want to miss it.
Thank you to Sunrise Publishing for the ARC. All opinions are my own.
307 reviews11 followers
March 17, 2026
I was very excited to return to the lives of the Trouble Boys from the Chasing Fire series! Hammer was particularly fascinating to me, and it was great to learn more about his background and relationship with Sierra. Huck was a delightful character who brought much needed levity to the plot, as well as raising the stakes during the most challenging situations. I was greatly saddened by the loss the characters endured at the hands of the criminals, and I was ready to see them brought to justice. I had an idea that one of the characters was not as he seemed, but the unexpected twists at the end of the story took me completely by surprise. I finished this book having a greater respect for Hammer, and I am eager to read Saxon’s story next.
I voluntarily read and reviewed this book for the publisher. A positive review was not required, and all opinions expressed are entirely my own.
Profile Image for Faith.
2,282 reviews
May 11, 2026
Sierra is doesn't know what to do when the man she thought she buried comes back, after she's raised their son alone for ten years. Now someone wants her ranch, and will do anything to get her out of the way.

A fast paced read, full of revelations, with a second chance romance on a Colorado ranch. Sierra won't back down easily, and I admired her grit. An engaging read, with a lot going on, I liked the character interaction as Rowan and Sierra come to trust each other again. Rowan is respectful of Sierra's boundaries, and is ready to step up and help when needed.

A modern western romance, filled with action, suspense, faith and second chances. Great character growth, faith, and I was cheering for Rowan and Sierra all the way. Highly stakes, satisfying read!

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Profile Image for Staci.
2,360 reviews679 followers
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
March 14, 2026
Calling fans of second chance romances! Rowan returns to Renegade after ten years. He joined the military to get away from his abusive step-father, but left a piece of his heart behind. Sierra thought Rowan was dead...she even has his funeral flag...so when he returns...her world is turned upside down.

Sierra is fighting to maintain the family ranch and is struggling financially. It seems that she is being targeted given the number of mishaps that occur. Could it be sabotage and will Rowan save the day?

I look forward to the next in the series. Saxon clearly is full of personality.

My gratitude to publisher Sunrise for a complimentary e-copy of the novel. I was not required to post a review and all opinions expressed are my own.
Profile Image for Naomi Shores.
559 reviews11 followers
March 17, 2026
This quote from the story sums it up pretty well, "But the best part about scars is that they remind you that you survived something difficult. They're proof that you're stronger than whatever tried to hurt you." Sierra Blackwood thought she lost the love of her life when Rowan "Hammer" Wallace was pronounced dead by the military but now he's back in Renegade and willing to fight for her. Someone is trying to run her off of her property and he's not going to allow that. There is plenty of action, suspense, some romance, a secret, a strong faith element, humor and strong friendships in this story. Some of the characters are in another series about hotshot firefighters so it was fun to get more of their stories.
Profile Image for Aletha.
1,040 reviews1 follower
March 23, 2026
It is always nice sliding into a Susan May Warren world. I love the world building, the community building, the way the secondary characters jump off the page. I’m not always big into the religious aspect (which I know is what she writes…) but in the same way people skim intimate scenes in other novels, I take it in, but don’t let it disrupt from the flow of the suspense and the relationship building and character development. All of which are always top notch.

I enjoyed the CO scenery this time with the ranching aspect, a little search and rescue, a little military ops, and it felt like a good combination of all of the pieces I’ve come to like from the worlds that Warren builds, even with other authors.
35 reviews4 followers
March 28, 2026
Sierra has been a single mom for 10 years, and believes that her son's father is dead in a military op gone wrong. After all, she went to the memorial service. But then Rowan "Hammer" Wallace reappears--and he has no idea that he has a son. If that was not enough, someone is targeting Sierra's ranch--and is willing to do anything to get it, including kidnapping. It doesn't help that Sierra has been struggling financially to make ends meet. And now she has to figure out when--or if--she tells Hammer about his son. Or will he figure it out on his own? Action and mystery abound in this hard to put down novel. This book is perfect for those who love clean romance, second chances, and a western theme. I loved this book and am looking forward to the rest of the series!
Profile Image for Allyson Anthony.
1,265 reviews57 followers
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
February 4, 2026
What an amazing start to a new series. If you have read Chasing Fire: Montana and Chasing Fire: Alaska series, you would have noticed there were a group called The Trouble Boys. Renegade follows Rowen "Hammer" Wallace and Sierra Blackwell's story. Packed full of suspense, cattle rustling, and danger, Renegade is also about found family, family dynamics, secrets, and second chance romance. I enjoyed the father/son moments, faith elements, and realistic characters with fears and personal struggles in this high stakes romantic suspense read.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All
thoughts and opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Kelley.
40 reviews24 followers
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
March 14, 2026
I have been a fan of susan may warren books for many years and I was so excited to read the first book of this new series. I was totally hooked after reading the first chapter, Rowan coming back to the renegade to face the past and the woman he loved. I was cheering for the couple the whole time and I stayed up way to late to find out what happen next. I love the suspense as they are finding out who is causing problem along the farm land. I cant wait to see what next in the series. Highly recommeded for anyone who loves christian romantic suspense books
I was gifted this book from the sunrise publishing exchange for a honest review.
Profile Image for Sarita.
1,569 reviews656 followers
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
March 15, 2026
Renegade is the start of a new series, but it features the Trouble boys we have met in a previous series. Hammer was always silent in the background, but now this broody-not-dead military hero had a lot to say.

Sierra was independent, but not by choice. She had to learn to stand strong and move forward when she was the one left behind.

I enjoyed seeing them reconnect, having to forgive and move forward. Hunter was just adorable.

The suspense plot was engaging, with enough action, twists and turns and some periods of allowing readers to breathe.

I look forward to this series.

*I received a complimentary copy from the publisher. All opinions expressed are my own.*
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