When Tex Beckett arrives at Ravena Reid's farm, he's eight years too late for the elopement they'd once planned--and it's far too early to win her forgiveness. He's seriously wounded, though, and she can't turn him away, though she knows better than to trust him. Yes, it's wonderful having help with the farm, and with the orphans she fosters, but if she opens her heart, she'll get hurt again when he leaves. And Tex always leaves.
As a notorious bank robber, Tex is used to danger. Yet reuniting with the only woman he's ever loved is the riskiest thing he's ever done. All he wants is to stay with Ravena and the children. But can he build a new start before his past catches up with him?
Stacy Henrie, a USA TODAY bestselling author, has always had a love for history, fiction, and chocolate. She earned her B.A. in public relations before turning her attentions to raising a family and writing inspirational historical romances. Wife of an entrepreneur husband and a mother to three, Stacy loves to live out history through her fictional characters. In addition to author, she is also a reader, a road trip enthusiast, and a novice interior decorator. Her books include Hope at Dawn, a 2015 Romance Writers of America RITA finalist for excellence in romance.
Leaning close, she placed a kiss near the corner of his mouth. Tex maintained a mildly surprised expression as she eased back, though he really wanted to kiss her back. Only he wanted to kiss her squarely on the lips, not on the cheek, same as he had in the past. Back then he'd taken their sweet kisses for granted, but now, he felt certain he would treasure them always. 168
1892 Tex comes back to his home town in Idaho, and the woman he left behind after jilting her eight years ago. He is gunshot and needs to recover. He is a wanted outlaw: a bank and train robber.
Ravena Olive Reid is one of these saintly, perfect Christian heroines that born-agains are so fond of writing. She's unbelievably good. She cared for her elderly grandfather until death, but feels very guilty she thought about marrying Tex and 'abandoning' her grandfather. She didn't DO it, she just THOUGHT about it. But it makes her feel so guilty. She cares for and takes in orphans. She's a saint.
I was pronouncing her name Ruh-vee-nuh for the whole book, but on page 214 we learn she was named after a raven. So perhaps it is pronounced Ray-vihn-uh. I don't know what the author's intent was.
So. Yeah. Tex stumbles back on to Ravena's farm. She tends to his wounds. He stays to work the farm and help raise the orphans. They fall in love again. Ravena helps Tex find Jesus again.
The book is typical Christian fiction in that it's a bit hard to believe. For instance, Tex was away being an outlaw for eight years, but he's still a virgin. I find that unbelievable. In another example, Tex owns a gold coin and a treasure map (key ingredients in this story) which he won gambling. In the only gambling he ever participated in in his life. I know what Henrie is saying - Tex's dad was a horrible gambler and Tex avoids gambling because he doesn't want to be a no-account like his father. But one time for no apparent reason he chooses to gamble and happens to win a treasure map.
Stuff like that. I give it a pass because romantic fiction in itself is usually pretty convoluted, but adding in the Christian elements usually end up making it even more so.
I enjoy Westerns, although I prefer them to be a little sexier than this. I love both historical and modern Westerns. I enjoyed the Western-ness of this with outlaws, bandits, cattle rustlers, the sheriff, a stranger rides into town, horses, treasure etc. etc. It's fun and entertaining and stirs the imagination. And many Westerns, Christian or not, entertain ideas of redemption and forgiveness. So Henrie's theme of And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.* is pretty apt here.
We have Tex, who is unable to forgive himself for his past actions and sees himself as a worthless human being. We see also his anger and judgement towards his father, whom he considers (or has been taught to consider) as a worthless human being. We also have Tex hiding the truth (that he is a criminal) from the sweet, innocent, Christian Ravena.
The book focuses on some of the better facets of Christianity. No one is worthless. All human beings have worth. Redemption is possible: it is never to late to change, it is never to late to become a good person and put good into the world. You need to forgive yourself: hating yourself is only going to bring bad things.
These are all positive, great messages that come out of Christianity. I am always happier to read Christian fiction that focuses on what (IMO) are the stronger and more powerful points that illustrate a true Christian nature and ideal rather than ones that focus on twisted, hateful, or damaging "Christian" ideas like 'purity,' 'being judgmental' and 'sex is horrible and disgusting.' There are so many beautiful and positive things about Christianity and the Christian message (IMO) that it's a real shame that a lot of "Christian" voices I hear recently preach hatred and intolerance and judgment. Luckily, Henrie focuses on the good here and doesn't get distracted.
Robin Jones Gunn's Christy Miller series is an example of a Christian series that made me upset. Just for an example of what I'm talking about.
HOW'S THE SEX, CARMEN?
No sex. This is Christian fiction. A few light kisses. Ravena daringly thinks that it might be fun to be tossed over Tex's shoulder and taken to the house. This is about as sexual as the book gets. I mean... he doesn't do that. She just thinks it might be fun if he did that. So. Yeah. Don't read this to be sexually excited.
TL;DR I would recommend this to Christian readers who want a sexless Western romance. There are exciting Western elements in here. Henrie gives some positive examples of Christianity, although the book does tend to be too cheesy for my tastes (like when but YMMV. And all the praying and Jesus and God stuff can get on your nerves after a while. I mean, you might differ from me on this, maybe you want to be reminded of God constantly while reading a romance, what do I know.
MENTIONS OF GOD: 64
*John 8:32
ROMANCE CATEGORIES: Cowboy Western Romance Historical Romance Inspirational Romance Second Chance Romance Virgin Hero Romance He's a Criminal (robber), She's a Farmer/Foster-Mother
I've been especially excited to read this book after the first one in the series, where Tate assumes Tex's outlaw identity. I was so curious about Tex's story so I was thrilled that this book came out soon after! Tex goes through a process of recognizing his choices as poor ones and accepting the responsibility for them. It was great to see the gradual chance in his attitude as Ravena and the memories of his experiences with her late grandfather work together to turn him toward God and planting seeds of faith. I loved the various personalities of the orphans that Ravena cares for and how it shows her compassionate nature. She struggles with her long-held feelings for Tex and forgiveness of others and self is a big theme in the story. There is some action as Tex's outlaw background catches up with him but I appreciated that he came to terms with it of his own volition before he was forced to by circumstances. Lovely romance between a stalwart young woman and a charming rogue!
(I received a complimentary copy of the book; all opinions expressed are my own)
I really enjoyed THE OUTLAW'S SECRET and this story is about Tate's twin brother, the Texas Titan. I always picture an outlaw, especially one of the Texas Titan's caliber, to be black-hearted, evil, unfeeling, and cold. Tex may be a little hardened because of his years as a criminal, but he's not so far gone that he can't come around, especially with the help of an old girlfriend and her ragtag houseful of orphans. Sometimes it truly takes a scary situation to turn things around and Tex is ready for a change. Ravena has got to be the most patient, loving, and accepting woman ever! Sometimes I can barely manage my own crew of four kids, but her heart is always willing to draw more in. These kids have personality in spades and I adored each one of them. It would be hard to let go of a past disappointment and to not hold a grudge, but Ravena doesn't have a mean, spiteful bone in her body.
I enjoyed the gentle chemistry between these two and the way they each worked through trust issues. I love the descriptions of their every day lives and the way the past and present fit together. There are many things to be resolved and through journeys of self-discovery and responsibility, a satisfying conclusion resulted.
Content: mild romance; mild-moderate religious elements (characters find themselves through religion); mild violence.
*I received a copy, which did not influence my thoughts. All opinions are my own.*
I had the chance to read the first book in this series, The Outlaw's Secret, and I really loved it so of course I jumped at the chance to read this book! These two books are about twins- the first book involves a case of mistaken identity and the second, a story of redemption.
Tex has made some mistakes. Some pretty big mistakes, actually. Now he has returned home in need of healing not just physically, but emotionally and spiritually too. He has something to prove to himself and Ravena.
Ravena has the patience of a saint. Her kindness extends to all those around her- even those who have hurt her. Lucky for Tex, that includes him. Ravena is also out to prove something and Tex is right there to help her. Tex and Ravena work well together and realize that they are better together, helping each other, than apart. Unfortunately, the past has a way of catching up to you eventually and Tex finds himself in a pickle.
Tex and Ravena were great characters. The book flowed gently and easily, weaving in daily life events with the rekindling of friendship and love. The children in this book were a fantastic addition and really gave the story a feeling of family and love.
I’ve been curious about infamous outlaw Tex Beckett ever since reading his twin brother Tate’s story in The Outlaw’s Secret. He did not disappoint! In some ways The Renegade's Redemption is a prequel; in other ways it’s a companion story. In all ways, it’s an excellent read!
(You don’t have to read The Outlaw’s Secret first – you can easily read it after The Renegade’s Redemption instead. But do go back and read it at some point if you haven’t already!)
Tex’s journey is riddled with bad choices but his brush with death leads him home in more ways than one. When he finally gets one on one with God, the sincerity and sacredness of the moment will touch your heart. Ravena’s struggle is more of trust – trusting God and learning to trust Tex again. Her grandfather’s legacy of faith and wisdom continues to remind her of what’s important, and I loved how Tex’s own memories of Ezra gave him the same assurances.
“Remember that the Lord has got this in His hands, Ravena. He’s got you.”
I fell in love with Fanny, one of the adorable orphans that Ravena has taken in. Her sweet giggles, her acceptance of Tex, her childlike faith. All of the children are very well-written and layered, but Fanny is my favorite!
Bottom Line: Vivid characters with lots of personality join forces with swoony romance, adorable children, and a heartfelt message of redemption and restoration. Stacy Henrie is skilled at knowing the right combination of each of those elements to achieve a ‘just right’ balance and a smooth story. If you’re a fan of stories set in the late 1800s West then you need to definitely make time to read Stacy Henrie’s books as well!
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)
Stacy Henrie has done it again! Her novel Renegade’s Redemption is simply splendid!! This western romance is filled with plenty of adventure and romance that readers will not want to miss. In addition there are themes of inspiration, forgiveness, and redemption that will tug at the heartstrings of readers. From page one, Henrie has written a captivating story that readers will thoroughly enjoy and will not want to put down as they fall in love with the fantastic characters, including the adorable and fun orphan children. Additionally, this story has a focus on love and family that readers will appreciate. This sweet historical romance novel is a fantastic sequel to The Outlaw’s Secret that readers will adore.
Genre: historical, romance, western Publisher: Love Inspired (Historical) Publication date: July 4, 2017 Number of pages: 228
Other books in the series: 1-The Outlaw’s Secret
A review copy of this novel was provided by Prism Book Tours. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are my own.
After reading The Outlaw's Secret, I could not wait to dive into this story and it was just as good as I had hoped it would be! I'm not sure which book I liked book -- TOS or TRR -- but it doesn't really matter since both were so captivating and good!
I loved the characters and setting. I loved the bad-guy-turned-good storyline. The orphans were adorable and Ravena's heart for them was amazing. I had no idea how this book would end, as there really didn't seem like any way for things to work out...so the book definitely kept me guessing.
I don't know if there will be another book with these characters, but I really hope so. I can't believe how much I enjoyed reading their stories and I want more. lol! I definitely recommend The Renegade's Redemption!
*I received a complimentary eBook copy of this book for my honest review. As always, all thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.*
Inspirational romance is not necessarily a genre towards which I naturally gravitate. I can count on the fingers of one hand the authors I favour that belong to this particular category, and yet I keep coming back to Stacy Henrie for her unsurpassed storytelling, her attention to detail, and unequalled historical accuracy. The story being set in 1892 America, one must remember that religion was an intrinsic part of life, as it had been for nearly 2 millennia. Stacy Henrie writes inspirational romances, and I cannot imagine THE RENEGADE’S REDEMPTION being told otherwise. Anyone who cannot abide the mention of God in a romance should probably stop reading right now, however that reader will miss one of the most outstanding books of the year. Stacy Henrie is one of my favourite historical romance authors for the specific reason that she is faithful to the spirit of the times.
Tex Beckett, even unseen, was such a powerful character in the previous book – The Outlaw’s Secret – that he needed his story, however I could barely imagine how the author would handle it, given the inspirational context and Tex’s character. Tex is The Texas Titan and he is wanted, dead or alive, for bank and train robberies. He left his sweetheart, Ravenna Reid, eight years before as they were to elope, and Ravenna hadn’t heard from him during all that time, neither had she heard of the famous outlaw. Tex has never stopped loving Ravenna, but he knows that she would not want him now: Ravenna’s Faith is strong, and she could not love a thief. Tex wanted to make a detour home, but circumstances made it that The Texas Titan was recognised by the local sheriff, Tex is shot, and it’s bleeding and unconscious that he is found by the orphans who live with Ravenna. Ravenna, since the death of her grandfather, has tended the family farm mostly by herself and still takes care of five orphans; it was her grandfather’s wish that they help the poor children, but times are tough, and Ravenna is afraid that the harvest might be doomed if they cannot ready the fields in time. In spite of still feeling the hurt Tex inflicted on her, she agrees to nurse him back to health, and that then he should leave as soon as he is able. And if you think you know where this is going, you might prepare yourself to be stunned.
I think Stacy Henrie was very brave in writing this story; nothing is instantaneous, and Tex doesn’t really feel remorse for what he’s done, but he knows he must repay Ravenna for her kindness, if nothing else: he will stay only until the fields are ready and the seeds are sown. Then, there is always something to be done, Tex needs to find things to be done, and being close to Ravenna, he is reminded of what could have been, and that maybe there could still be hope for them, but Ravenna is no fool. And I think I suffered as much as Tex and Ravenna as the story progressed, and I also worried that the author might wrap things up nicely, and that would have been underestimating Stacy Henrie.
THE RENEGADE’S REDEMPTION is one of the most compelling stories I have read in a long time, nothing ever seemed a given, and I kept wondering if Tex would have the fortitude to really atone for his life of crime, or if some sort of miracle would occur; I was always waiting for the other shoe to drop. Tex and Ravenna are extraordinarily complex characters, and Stacy Henrie’s eloquent writing has reached improbable heights. I felt emotionally involved the whole time and I marvelled at those mundane details that makes a story real: such as the loaf of bread that is placed in a towel, or Ravenna’s grandfather’s nightshirt. Nothing comes easy in THE RENEGADE’S REDEMPTION, which makes it one of the most satisfying books of the year, inspirational or not.
Oh my, where do I start?? Oh yes! The dashingly charming Hero! Stacy Henrie has definitely succeeded in giving us a stress filled but light hearted romance with such a wonderful Hero that displays many levels of self-loathing and guilt yet is so compassionate and determined to do good for once!
The Heroine was quite charming as well. With her stern determination to care for the Orphans she fostered and not letting Tex get under her skin (again!) Her hurt and frustration pared with her obvious feelings for him that she had buried made this a conflictingly heartfelt book!
And don't get me started on the dear little children in the book!! Well done, Stacy!
I haven't read "The Outlaw's Secret" (Tate's story). I did wonder if Tex and Tate were identical twins and if both were in Texas if Tate would be mistaken for Tex--I thought that might be a plot twist in this book, but it wasn't. (I see from other reviews that Tate did take on Tex's outlaw persona though at some point in his book.)
Tex returns home because he feels he has no choice but to go somewhere where it was less likely people would have heard of the "Texas Titan". He finds his brother Tate has moved away and ends up at the neighboring farm where the girl he planned to elope with (Ravena) lives.
Ravena is having problems of her own. Her grandfather has died, leaving her with a farm and an unfinished new house, and four orphan boys due to arrive over the summer. She's tried hiring help, but she can't offer much compensation and two of her current orphans don't seem to understand that their mischief bothers the help.
Ravena must work through trust issues since she trusted Tex to return for her in the past and he didn't. She also feels guilty that she thought about running away from the grandfather who loved her. Tex has to work through his bad choices and the issue of forgiveness.
Tex Beckett is on the run in 1892 Idaho. He is known as being the infamous Texas Titan. His face is plastered on wanted posters for being an outlaw and bank robber. He finds himself going to his childhood town and seeking solace from his first love Ravena Reid.
Ravena had her heart broken by Tex when he left years ago. She has lived on her grandfather Ezra's farm and carried out his dream to provide a home for orphans.
I love the setting of the book and the vivid details of daily life on the farm. The orphans were just so sweet and I loved their personalities. Jacob, Mark, Fanny, Ginny and Luke. These precious children loved Ravena, attending school and church and helping on the farm.
Tex and Ravena's relationship was full of twists and turns. . The faith message in the book is strong and woven through out. Tex needs to know that he is worthy of Gods love and forgiveness and nothing can separate him from that. He also has to deal with the past wrong life decisions he made. Ravena also has to learn to forgive and trust Tex.
A sweet historical romance that will wam readers hearts. I didn't read the first book but this book was a good stand alone story.
The Renegade's Redemption is the third Stacy Henrie book that I've read. I haven't really read very many of the Love Inspired Historicals but I usually try to watch for her new releases and then read them when I get the chance.
I think this was a first for me. I don't really remember ever reading anything where the hero is more closer to what I would normally call a bad guy. It took me a bit to wrap my mind around the fact that Tex IS a bank robber and not WAS, and I think it took me nearly as long to warm up to him as it takes Ravena to start trusting him. Like I said, it was a little weird at first, but it didn't take me long to get into the story and to start hoping that Tex would turn his life around.
The Renegade's Redemption is a sweet historical romance with strong themes of forgiveness and trusting in God. The story begins and pretty much ends with a bang, and the pages in between are sure to keep readers anxiously turning them to find out what happens with Tex, Ravena, and the orphans.
(I received a copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions are entirely my own.)
The Renegade’s Redemption by Stacy Henrie is a sweet, inspirational, historical romance set in Idaho in 1892. Tex finds himself in need of help and turns to the woman he once ran away from, Ravena. As Ravena nurses him back to health, with the help of the orphans she cares for, Tex finds himself grappling with his feelings. Both his feelings about himself and his feelings about Ravena.
I really enjoyed this sweet story. I quickly found myself attached to the characters and immersed in the setting. I loved this story so much. The setting and time period was just perfect. The Renegade’s Redemption is well-written and a quick read. If you are looking for a sweet, clean romance, give this one a try. You won’t regret it.
I received a copy of this book from the author and I am voluntarily sharing my honest review. Review originally appeared on Brooke Blogs.
Loved Tex and Ravena's story. They were to elope but Tex left Ravena without a word. For eight years Tex talked himself in believing he was like his father. He wasn't a farmer he was a man that wanted adventure. Due to a change in his life he travel home, his brother is gone and boyhood home has been sold. Ravena has decided to carry on with her grandfather's dream of bringing more orphans to the farm, but she need help with building a bigger house. In walk Tex after 8 long years without a word. Is he here to stay or just passing through? God has away of making us search ourselves, we may try to run from the plan God has for us. But God is very patient. Tex ran for eight years but in the end he was right where God knew he would be and that is the same for you and I when we give it all to God, his plan is always better than ours.
The Renegade's Redemption by Stacy Henrie. Wyoming 1892. Tex Beckett left his sweetheart and town eleven years ago. Since then he has been robbing banks and stealing. He won a map and cash in a poker game from a cattle rustler. Quincy does not like to lose. He told the sheriff where Tex was. As Tex was riding away he got shot. He does lose the sheriff and Quincy and heads to his home town. He ends up in the field of his ex sweetheart, Ravena Reid. Ravena lives on her grandfathers farm and fosters orphans. Tex discovers he still and always has loved Ravena. He wants to stay at the farm and help Ravena raise the children. But....he has to right all the wrongs he has done. Romance. Excitement. Trust.
This book was both wonderful and difficult for me to read. Like Tex, I can relate to being haunted by past mistakes in my life, and I can also totally understand Ravena's inner turmoil over what was happening. I appreciate the way that Stacy wove the themes of forgiveness and trust into The Renegade's Redemption. Learning to forgive ourselves and others isn't always easy, and I was grateful to this story for not glossing over that. I did feel like the consequences for Tex's crimes were pretty unrealistic at the end of the story, but I enjoy books with a happy ending, so I'll go with it!
****I won a copy of this book. All of my opinions are my own.
I liked this story very much. It was a good sequel to The Outlaw's Secret, and it answered all the questions I'd had about Tate and Tex. I also liked how the story made a point of saying that no matter what happens, there is nothing that God won't forgive, and forgiving ourselves is a big step in healing.
I read the first book in this series and liked it and was happy to read this one to continue the story. Another great read by Stacy Henrie! Love Inspired books are the best!
My Rating: 5/5 🌟 The Renegade’s Redemption is a great second book to wrap up the Beckett Brothers stories. Definitely a page turner that leaves you forever connected to the characters & happy from the inside out! Read my full review over on my blog: https://thesonoranreads.wordpress.com...