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The Gallaghers of Sweetgrass Springs #9
Texas Strong
From New York Times and USAToday bestselling romance author Jean Brashear, another emotional story set in beloved Sweetgrass Springs, Texas…
The most reviled man in Sweetgrass Springs, Tank Patton lives on the razor’s edge of control, locked down and solitary by choice, keeping himself apart the only way he knows to avoid the legacy of violence handed down from his father. When he meets a young mother in dire straits, he gives her and her winsome children the immediate help they need, intending to give her wide berth from then on.
Chrissy Daniels desperately hopes she can make a new life for herself and her children in Sweetgrass Springs, and that means being strong and self-reliant, no more leaning on men who are losers or worse—yet she finds herself touched by the bone-deep loneliness she senses in the man everyone has warned her is a brute and not to be trusted.
Despite his intentions, Tank finds himself drawn back to Chrissy’s warmth and the sweetness of her children, yet he knows that to truly care for them means keeping his distance. Chrissy battles her long history of choosing men unwisely, yet she finds herself unable to turn away from this man she’s beginning to suspect is more decent than anyone believes—including Tank himself.
But can a man who’s never trusted anyone and a woman who’s trusted all the wrong men defy the odds and open their hearts to each other?
"Jean Brashear's distinctive storytelling voice instantly draws in the reader. She writes with warmth and emotional truth. The depth of her understanding of human nature marks her as a writer to watch, a writer to read and a writer to enjoy."~#1 New York Times bestselling author Debbie Macomber
The most reviled man in Sweetgrass Springs, Tank Patton lives on the razor’s edge of control, locked down and solitary by choice, keeping himself apart the only way he knows to avoid the legacy of violence handed down from his father. When he meets a young mother in dire straits, he gives her and her winsome children the immediate help they need, intending to give her wide berth from then on.
Chrissy Daniels desperately hopes she can make a new life for herself and her children in Sweetgrass Springs, and that means being strong and self-reliant, no more leaning on men who are losers or worse—yet she finds herself touched by the bone-deep loneliness she senses in the man everyone has warned her is a brute and not to be trusted.
Despite his intentions, Tank finds himself drawn back to Chrissy’s warmth and the sweetness of her children, yet he knows that to truly care for them means keeping his distance. Chrissy battles her long history of choosing men unwisely, yet she finds herself unable to turn away from this man she’s beginning to suspect is more decent than anyone believes—including Tank himself.
But can a man who’s never trusted anyone and a woman who’s trusted all the wrong men defy the odds and open their hearts to each other?
"Jean Brashear's distinctive storytelling voice instantly draws in the reader. She writes with warmth and emotional truth. The depth of her understanding of human nature marks her as a writer to watch, a writer to read and a writer to enjoy."~#1 New York Times bestselling author Debbie Macomber
281 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 17, 2016
About the author
Jean Brashear
147 books241 followersA letter to Rod Stewart resulting in a Cinderella birthday for her daughter sowed the seeds of New York Times and USAToday bestselling author Jean Brashear's writing career. A lifelong avid reader, at the age of forty-five with no experience and no training, she decided to see if she could write a book. It was a wild leap that turned her whole life upside down, but she would tell you that though she's never been more terrified, she's never felt more exhilarated or more alive. She's an ardent proponent of not putting off your dreams until that elusive 'someday'—take that leap now.
Over fifty published novels later, the five-time RITA finalist and RTBookReviews Career Achievement Award winner has accumulated a whole passel of war stories to swap and loves nothing better than talking writing and books with readers and fellow writers.
And she'd still take that leap, war wounds and all.
Over fifty published novels later, the five-time RITA finalist and RTBookReviews Career Achievement Award winner has accumulated a whole passel of war stories to swap and loves nothing better than talking writing and books with readers and fellow writers.
And she'd still take that leap, war wounds and all.
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Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews
July 9, 2019
I listened to the audio version of this book.
The narrator of this book really makes you feel for Tank. I could pick up the anguish in Tank's voice and his thoughts. Living with the constant fear of possibly being like his father, waiting for the other shoe to drop, being afraid to open up to anyone, feeling like you had no future, and forget about the possibility of anyone loving you. No wonder Tank was so angry.
I loved the way Tank interacted with Chrissy's children. I could feel Tank's pain while he struggled with feeling like he was not good enough. I thought it was really sad that for once, the community of Sweetgrass Springs was not there for Tank when he was a kid, and held things from his childhood against him as an adult.
I will admit that based on the first book where Tank had a role, I didn't think he was redeemable or that he was sympathetic.
Not only was the story in itself good, the narration served to only enhance the story. There were updates about Ian and Scarlett, Ian's parents, and Jackson and Veronica. There were also new additions to Sweetgrass Springs.
There was still all of the romance, family, love, loyalty, and friendship that we have come to expect from this series.
I voluntarily listened to and reviewed this audio book.
The narrator of this book really makes you feel for Tank. I could pick up the anguish in Tank's voice and his thoughts. Living with the constant fear of possibly being like his father, waiting for the other shoe to drop, being afraid to open up to anyone, feeling like you had no future, and forget about the possibility of anyone loving you. No wonder Tank was so angry.
I loved the way Tank interacted with Chrissy's children. I could feel Tank's pain while he struggled with feeling like he was not good enough. I thought it was really sad that for once, the community of Sweetgrass Springs was not there for Tank when he was a kid, and held things from his childhood against him as an adult.
I will admit that based on the first book where Tank had a role, I didn't think he was redeemable or that he was sympathetic.
Not only was the story in itself good, the narration served to only enhance the story. There were updates about Ian and Scarlett, Ian's parents, and Jackson and Veronica. There were also new additions to Sweetgrass Springs.
There was still all of the romance, family, love, loyalty, and friendship that we have come to expect from this series.
I voluntarily listened to and reviewed this audio book.
August 5, 2019
I love listening to this audible. Tank and Chrissy slowly develop a sweet romance. Although, the various residents “warn” Chrissy about Tank, she sees a different side to Tank. He treats her and her children with kindness and respect. He grew up in a house of physical abuse and took beatings from his father so that he could protect his mother and little sister. Tank had some “rough edges” to his persona. During the development of Chrissy and Tanks romance, the reader is treated to a second relationship, and it’s ups & downs. This second relationship is the story of Chrissy’s sister and brother-in-law. I also enjoyed updates on Scarlett and her new family, and other familiar residents of Sweetgrass Springs.
I received a complimentary audible from the author. I have chosen to provide an honest review.
I received a complimentary audible from the author. I have chosen to provide an honest review.
July 10, 2019
Audiobook Review: Texas Strong (The Gallaghers of Sweetgrass Springs #8) by Jean Brashear (Author), Eric G. Dove (Narrator)
She needed something to believe in. He gave her a reason to hope. Chrissy and Tank met at the lowest points in their lives. Both lonely, broken and trying to make a fresh start. They find strength in each other. He gives her hope. She helps him heal. In the midst of their tragic circumstances, love forces it's way in. Can two people who don't easily trust, find the courage to risk everything on a happily ever after kind of love? Texas Strong takes root in the soul. Brashear brings the rain, before she lets the sun shine in. Dove gives voice to heartache with a dash of courage and a ton of hope. Hanky tested, heart approved.
She needed something to believe in. He gave her a reason to hope. Chrissy and Tank met at the lowest points in their lives. Both lonely, broken and trying to make a fresh start. They find strength in each other. He gives her hope. She helps him heal. In the midst of their tragic circumstances, love forces it's way in. Can two people who don't easily trust, find the courage to risk everything on a happily ever after kind of love? Texas Strong takes root in the soul. Brashear brings the rain, before she lets the sun shine in. Dove gives voice to heartache with a dash of courage and a ton of hope. Hanky tested, heart approved.
March 16, 2020
I'm not a bully fan and that is what Tank is, but I also knew there was a story to be told. Tank intrigued me from the moment we met him, I believe it was in Texas Roots but I'm not 100% on that. I loved how Chrissy looked past the surface and saw the man Tank is and what he could be. I appreciated her grit and not giving up on Tank. Yes, Tank did everything he could do to push Chrissy away. I loved being able to see below the surface of Tank. I loved his interaction with Thad and Becky, I found him sweet. Overall I enjoyed Texas Strong and it made me teary eyed.
September 16, 2018
I loved this story in that Chrissy saw through Tanks outward presence and saw the wounded man and boy below.
Loved Laura and Jakes story that a marriage may look perfect on the outside but a few little happenings and the cracks start. It is up to the two in the marriage to mend the crack before it becomes too big. Just loved this story.
Narration was great as always.
Loved Laura and Jakes story that a marriage may look perfect on the outside but a few little happenings and the cracks start. It is up to the two in the marriage to mend the crack before it becomes too big. Just loved this story.
Narration was great as always.
October 21, 2017
I love reading Jean Brashears books, she is such a great writer, who puts her heart and soul into her writing, you will laugh and you will cry, In this book, Tank went though so much when he was young and how it afected him thoughhout his young adult life.
February 24, 2019
How to overcome a bad childhood
Chrissy’s and Tank’s story. Neither believed in their fundamental goodness and capability. But her determination to make the town and Tank see his goodness brought them together.
An emotional story. The ending brought tears to my eyes.
Chrissy’s and Tank’s story. Neither believed in their fundamental goodness and capability. But her determination to make the town and Tank see his goodness brought them together.
An emotional story. The ending brought tears to my eyes.
July 18, 2019
Tank and Crissy are the main focus of this book, but many chapters are devoted to the town and Crissy's sister. It was great to hear Tank's story and how he grew through the pain of his childhood. I enjoyed the narrator immensely. I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book.
September 21, 2023
Texas Strong
I like the theme of overcoming the past. I recommend readers that like a good family centered story to read this one. This town seems to heal and build a strong community.
I like the theme of overcoming the past. I recommend readers that like a good family centered story to read this one. This town seems to heal and build a strong community.
May 20, 2017
Texas Strong review
Texas Strong is the seventeenth book in the Texas Heroes, a story in the Sweetgrass Springs series, written by author Jean Brashear.
Texas Strong is the seventeenth book in the Texas Heroes, a story in the Sweetgrass Springs series, written by author Jean Brashear.
January 15, 2018
Such depth
The human condition we all experience and hide because we are all the same. Jean weaves a story of hope and live that makes leaves you satisfied.
The human condition we all experience and hide because we are all the same. Jean weaves a story of hope and live that makes leaves you satisfied.
June 23, 2019
I liked seeing Tank get his happy ever after. Another great story. Happy to incorporate previous characters and keep the story building.
February 2, 2022
Another wonder book by Jean Brashear!!! I love seeing other characters from previous books in her new books.
February 13, 2023
Very sweet
January 5, 2024
Loved it!
Tank and Christ's story is excellently written and a true testament to the power of love overcoming the most difficult of beginning gsm
Tank and Christ's story is excellently written and a true testament to the power of love overcoming the most difficult of beginning gsm
January 28, 2017
Pretty awesome
September 3, 2025
Purchased in epub format from Author's store
March 16, 2016
Sweetgrass Springs, Texas embodies a special place for hearts that need healing. This warm and romantic series only gets better with each story, as all the characters we have come to love, from the beginning, move forward with their lives.
I feel Ms. Brashear has outdone herself, with Texas Strong! The title is aptly named as, I believe, there is strength in vulnerability and written so poignantly, you will not be able to put it down.
Tank Patton is Deputy Sheriff of Sweetgrass Springs and Chrissy Daniels, newly arrived in town with her two young children, has been hired as a waitress at Ruby's Diner. Chrissy is amazed and surprised at the negative reaction to Tank as he places his order, considering the warm welcome she received as a newcomer. Something is definitely off here, leaving Chrissy unsettled. She has a soft heart, recognizing that underneath Tank's fierce demeanor, there is a spark of light just waiting to ignite. Despite his intimidating physical stature, Tank is a gentle giant at heart.
Chrissy because of foolish choices she made in the past, and Tank because of fears that he is like his father, a brutal and sadistic man, the attraction they feel for each other pulls them in different directions. At the same time, they keep coming back to each other, under the guise of a budding friendship. Children are not easily fooled and they sense in Tank an honesty and respect.
This book is everything a romance should be! The dialogue flows so beautifully, covering a gamut of emotions, that I found myself re-reading passages just for the joy of it. There is much substance in the relationship between Tank and his sister, Veronica and Chrissy and her sister, Laura. With these and additional situations woven throughout, the author creates dramatic contrast and makes Texas Strong a brilliant work.
I received an advanced copy of this book for an honest review. Kudos Ms. Brashear!
I feel Ms. Brashear has outdone herself, with Texas Strong! The title is aptly named as, I believe, there is strength in vulnerability and written so poignantly, you will not be able to put it down.
Tank Patton is Deputy Sheriff of Sweetgrass Springs and Chrissy Daniels, newly arrived in town with her two young children, has been hired as a waitress at Ruby's Diner. Chrissy is amazed and surprised at the negative reaction to Tank as he places his order, considering the warm welcome she received as a newcomer. Something is definitely off here, leaving Chrissy unsettled. She has a soft heart, recognizing that underneath Tank's fierce demeanor, there is a spark of light just waiting to ignite. Despite his intimidating physical stature, Tank is a gentle giant at heart.
Chrissy because of foolish choices she made in the past, and Tank because of fears that he is like his father, a brutal and sadistic man, the attraction they feel for each other pulls them in different directions. At the same time, they keep coming back to each other, under the guise of a budding friendship. Children are not easily fooled and they sense in Tank an honesty and respect.
This book is everything a romance should be! The dialogue flows so beautifully, covering a gamut of emotions, that I found myself re-reading passages just for the joy of it. There is much substance in the relationship between Tank and his sister, Veronica and Chrissy and her sister, Laura. With these and additional situations woven throughout, the author creates dramatic contrast and makes Texas Strong a brilliant work.
I received an advanced copy of this book for an honest review. Kudos Ms. Brashear!
March 21, 2016
I've enjoyed many of Jean Brashear's books, and her latest Sweetgrass Springs is heart-wrenching. Her characters come alive for me as they deal with issues from their pasts as well as those issues that come with daily living. There are really two plots here....Chrissy Daniels and Deputy Tank Patton and Chrissy's older sister Laura and her husband, Dr. Jake Cameron.
There are also appearances of characters from earlier novels in this series, so it may be helpful to have read earlier books in the series, but it's not a necessity. This works fine as a stand-alone.
[I don't know who chose the cover, but it doesn't come close to representing the two main characters, Tank, a huge mountain of a man at 6'6" and Chrissy who's described as "small." I hate it when covers appear to be chosen by people who haven't read the book! Grrrr!]
There are also appearances of characters from earlier novels in this series, so it may be helpful to have read earlier books in the series, but it's not a necessity. This works fine as a stand-alone.
[I don't know who chose the cover, but it doesn't come close to representing the two main characters, Tank, a huge mountain of a man at 6'6" and Chrissy who's described as "small." I hate it when covers appear to be chosen by people who haven't read the book! Grrrr!]
January 2, 2021
An outstanding addition to the Sweetgrass Springs series by Jean Brashear. She gives a minor character with a troubled past and crusty shell his own story, and it didn't disappoint. My mind and heart were completely captivated by this story and still linger in this tale, several days after finishing the book. I can't wait for Brenda's story.
March 20, 2016
Amazon review: Texas Strong
As always, Jean Brasher enthralls but she has outdone herself with this one. Who would have thought there was even a chance for a story in Tank! I thought he was a loss cause! Great job!
As always, Jean Brasher enthralls but she has outdone herself with this one. Who would have thought there was even a chance for a story in Tank! I thought he was a loss cause! Great job!
November 17, 2017
How easy it is to love the beautiful, the caring and the helpless. Tank was a tortured soul who wanted to belong yet didn't know how to overcome his upbringing. Sometimes a stranger can see what is missed by everyone. Loved Tank's story and hope to see him grow in Sweetgrass Springs."
June 27, 2016
I knew Tank's story would be very emotional. Such an amazing story. He definitely needed to be loved and brought out of his shell.
July 6, 2016
I was waiting and waiting for the story of Tank! So glad that it finally came and didn't disappoint!
November 7, 2016
This is a great story and I have loved all of her books in this series.
December 31, 2016
I think I fell in love with Tank myself. Great story!!
Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews