Along Came a Ranger

Texas Lawmen #3

by Debra Holt

No cowboys allowed. That is Stacy Smith’s motto. Having overcome a rough childhood, she vows to not repeat the same mistakes that her mother made. Writing bestselling romance novels as Sabrina Noelle, she is happy to stay in her ivory tower, creating perfect worlds for her heroes and heroines that keep her busy and her heart whole.

Texas Ranger Davis McKenna handles crisis situations on a regular basis. But when he is stranded in a hotel elevator with a gorgeous woman on the verge of panic, he soon realizes that there’s more at play than just his protective instincts.

Take one determined Texas Ranger and one equally stubborn romance author and there is bound to be a showdown at high noon where desires and hearts are concerned. Can Stacy risk opening her heart to the man who represents everything she never wanted?

Genres: Romance, Contemporary Romance, Westerns, Contemporary, Ebooks, Suspense

282 pages, Kindle Edition

Published September 11, 2017

About the author

Born and raised in the Lone Star state of Texas, Debra grew up among horses, cowboys, wide open spaces, and real Texas Rangers. Pride in her state and ancestry knows no bounds and it is these heroes and heroines she loves to write about the most. She also draws upon a variety of life experiences including working with abused children, caring for baby animals at a major zoo, and planning high-end weddings (ah, romance!).
Debra's real pride and joys, however, are her son, an aspiring film actor, and a daughter with aspirations to join the Federal Bureau of Investigation. (more story ideas!) When she isn't busy writing about tall Texans and feisty heroines, she can be found cheering on her Texas Tech Red Raiders, or heading off on another cruise adventure. She read her first romance...Janet Dailey's Fiesta San Antonio, over thirty years ago and became hooked on the genre. Writing contemporary romances, is both her passion and dream come true, and she hopes her books will bring smiles...and sighs... to all who believe in happily-ever-after's.
Debra invites you to visit her website at www.debraholtbooks.com. She loves to hear from other aspiring authors or readers via email at debraholtbooks@gmail.com.

Reviews

[Elaine - Splashes Into Books · Rating 4 out of 5]

Fate has plans for these two! Initially meeting in a gym, then getting trapped together in an elevator, author Stacy Smith and Texas Ranger Davis McKenna are attracted to each other until she realises he’s a cowboy. After her childhood experiences of her Mum’s romances with cowboys, Stacy has vowed to never fall for a cowboy so refuses to date him. He’s one determined Ranger but can he get her to give him a chance?

This is an enthralling story, one that I loved from the very start. It has some great somewhat humorous moments - like when Stacey convinces herself to be brave and act as an amateur sleuth. The secondary characters in McKenna Springs are endearing - especially the two ‘old timers’ with their wisdom and advice. Davis is the ultimate Texas Ranger - with a strong presence, determination and resolve yet also highly protective, sensitive and caring.

This is a great, fun read, an action packed romance with drama and suspense. This is the third novel in the series but it works well as a standalone. I have no hesitation in highly recommending it to anyone who enjoys escaping into a well written romance.

I requested and was given a copy of this book via NetGalley and this is my honest opinion after choosing to read it.

[Bec · Rating 5 out of 5]

Being stuck in an elevator is not Stacy Smith's idea of fun, but at least she has great company to lessen her fear. However, Stacy has a rule about not getting involved with cowboys and that's exactly what Davis McKenna is, even though he's also a Texas Ranger determined to protect the innocent and punish the guilty. Will Davis be able to convince Stacy to take a chance on him or will her past demons keep the pair apart?

The first two books of this series are absolutely fantastic reads, but this book is the best by far. Because it encompasses two mesmerizing characters that find they're drawn to each other, but with the heroine's past when it comes to cowboys due to her mom and relationships, there's no way they could possibly have a chance, even though there's more to Davis than being a cowboy. He has a respectable job as a Texas Ranger and is a law enforcement officer willing to go above and beyond the call of duty, which is proven during a tough case.

As for the dialogue, it was well-written, enthralling and I loved the main characters backs stories that make the heroine think that getting involved with a cowboy isn't a good idea, because of all the ones her mother dated that proved unreliable including her father. However, in saying that, I liked how the hero won Stacy over and showed her he was different, even if it meant that their relationship never progressed further than friends. Furthermore, the hero is confident and I loved how willing he was to help the heroine when it came to her writing. Yet, what I liked most about the hero is his dedication to his job and how far he's willing to go to see justice served, which is proven by what happens with Stacy and a dangerous situation.

While the heroine, she's strong and brave with everything she's gone through in her past and the way she handles the obstacles that this couple need to overcome to be together, especially the moment where she does something that could get her hurt or worse. I also liked that she was willing to give the hero a chance, even though she doesn't have a high opinion of cowboys. Yet, what I liked most of all about the heroine is her love for her career as a romance writer and the success she'd had that makes her popular with her fans.

Overall, Ms. Holt has delivered an incredibly enchanting read in this book where the chemistry was wonderful; the romance passionate and had me liking when the heroine gave in to the hero; and the ending had me loving the hero more than I already did, because he isn't willing to give up on the heroine and their happy ever after no matter how many times she rejects him. However, it was the epilogue that wrapped this story up perfectly, because this couple are meant to be. I would recommend Along Came a Ranger by Debra Holt, if you enjoy the enemy to lovers trope, the opposites attract trope, or books by authors Elle James, Ann B. Harrison, Michelle Beattie and Katherine Garbera.

[Becky Burciaga · Rating 5 out of 5]

There isn't another author that I've found who can write larger than life lawmen like Debra Holt. With the overpowering need to protect, the essence of a true Texas Ranger is captured in the character of Davis McKenna...her depiction of him as a man who does not go unnoticed was complimented by his sensitive and intuitive nature, making him that much more alluring.

Throughout the story there was not a moment where Davis and Stacey didn't have my complete emotional investment...in his pursuit to breaking down her barriers, and her realizing that misconstrued imagines from her childhood were far from what embodied Davis who wore the coveted label of a true cowboy.

Stacey's talking herself into the bravery that was necessary in thwarting a kidnapping was heartwarming, and brought the drama that added dimension to the story. Davis' fear for her safety during that episode was palpable...making for quick page turning in anticipation of the outcome.

I look forward to the next installment of the series that I've thoroughly enjoyed so far.

This ARC book was complimentary, provided by the Publisher and NetGalley. I am voluntarily providing my honest review.

[Maria · Rating 4 out of 5]

"Received an Advance Reader Copy in exchange for a fair review"
I was surprised with how much I’ve enjoyed this book. I loved its depiction of how a romance novel writer’s mind works and the super honorable, super romantic cowboy hero. I even loved the suspense part, involving a precious little girl (and then again, I enjoyed seeing how the heroine filtered the events through her imaginative brain).
The characters grew on me as the storyline progressed and I adored Debra Holt’s sense of humor and her love of romance. The heroine falls for the sexy Texas Ranger as much as she falls for the lovely town of Mckenna Springs and its inhabitants.
The take and twists on the romantic classic trope of “love at first sight” was delightful, with some credible ups and downs.
I'm grateful to the publisher, Tule Publishing, and NetGalley for providing a free copy.

[Sandi Ramirez · Rating 5 out of 5]

So funny I remember the signs hanging up on the Clubhouse "NO GIRLS ALLOWED"...I thought about that when I read this book but a sign that said " No Cowboys Allowed". Yep in this book we have a romance author Stacy Smith who grew up with a mom who shall we say for was a Buckle bunny. It left Stacy with a bad taste for Cowboys that is for sure and she vowed never to go down that path herself.
Well, wouldn't you know the ONE man who happens to Float her boat is Texas Ranger Davis McKenna. He does not then that even though she is bound and determined to NOT let him in. I love it when the man lets the lady know that he wants her but he doesn't push to much BUT just enough. Maybe it is that good Texas teaching in him. This book was gifted to me for my own opinion and no one else's. The fact that they gifted it has nothing to do with my opinion.

[Miriam Wolfe · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a fun book – it is filled with romance, intrigue, and lots of drama! This book can easily be read as a standalone but since I had read book 1, it was fun to see the previous characters in this book.

I loved that Stacy was a romance writer but lived in her “ivory tower” and used her imagination to write the romance and sexy bedroom scenes. Unfortunately, she had a “no cowboy” rule and Davis McKenna was a Texas Ranger/cowboy.

Davis was very patient and committed to pursuing Stacy and hoping to change her mind about the cowboy rule. There were times that Stacy was frustrating to me and I really had to give Davis credit for continuing to give her time and not turn his back on her.

During the events in the book, you can see that Stacy is a strong woman and yet had a very hard childhood that she really needs to overcome before she will even give Davis a chance. I mean – really! – if I guy worked as hard as Davis did to pursue me, I would just melt and give in!!

I also liked that we can see Davis at “work” when he saves Stacy and rounds up the kidnappers. How Stacy did not grab Davis and not look back, I just can’t comprehend! It was great that Stacy used all the characteristics of Davis for her new hero and put a cowboy as the hero of her new book and had a best seller!!

This book was a great read, and hard to put down, and I am looking forward to book 4 coming out!

This is a voluntary review of an advanced copy.

[Cindy · Rating 3 out of 5]

Really 2.5 stars because I would forget I was reading it. I finished another book and when I looked at my Kindle it was only 88% done with this one and was surprised I hadn't finished it. Nice enough story but never got involved with the people.

[Shelagh · Rating 3 out of 5]

Along came A Ranger, third in Debra Holt’s Texas Lawman series, pits ranger Davis McKenna, a cowboy through and through, against wealthy romance author Stacy Smith, who has a very low opinion of cowboys in general.
This story had some really good bits in it, bits that kept me turning pages eager to see what would happen next. Sadly it also had chunks of prose telling me how he or she was feeling without making me actually imagine it. A bit of deep point of view would have gone down a treat! Although I wasn’t 100% invested in either the characters or the story, I did enjoy it overall and am looking forward to the next story in this series.

[Jeanie Womack · Rating 5 out of 5]

Stacey and Davis

Stacey 's has had a tough life. One that's instilled in her a protected heart and depends on her motto, "No cowboys allowed!" A little time in a stalled elevator with a gorgeous man doesn't change anything until he comes downstairs to the lobby at their next meeting dressed as a cowboy!

[Eileen Gernet · Rating 5 out of 5]

Don't miss this series😊

I am a mess with this series. I have knee replacement surgery in a week and 2 days with a million things to do it all I can think of is reading the books in this series. The issues in each book and the romance on every page is not to be missed.

[Barbara · Rating 3 out of 5]

Nice

There were some errors and repetitive descriptions but, overall, I did enjoy the storyline. Can the city girl with issues regarding cowboys change her negative attitude in that regard and open her heart to a cowboy?

[Lorraine · Rating 4 out of 5]

Lovely story

This story is not quite as ‘clean’ as the previous books in the series. Enjoyed Davis’ patience with Stacy’s issues. Her emotions were frustrating to read at times. But the she did become likeable.

[Jane Drager · Rating 5 out of 5]

A writer of romances meets a Texas Ranger. Only one problem. She hates cowboys. She also becomes an unwitting hero. This story is too good to pass up. I highly recommend adding it to your reading list.

[Judy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Interesting characters

I enjoyed both the characters and the story. It was the perfect read to escape with for a few hours.

[Sandi · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved it

If you've never been exposed to true Texas gentleman you'll be looking for one after you read this book with
Romance and a side of suspense.

[Josie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Super sweet romance. I love the whole romance author premise.

[Marsha Keeper Bookshelf · Rating 4 out of 5]

Reviewed at Keeper Bookshelf

Take one stubborn, never gonna love a cowboy romance writer and one determined Ranger who happens to be the definition of a true cowboy, mix them well, add some suspense, some drama and you have a volatile, charming romance in the making.

Stacy and Davis make a very believable, at times stubborn, always determined couple. Where Stacy has sworn she’d never get involved with a cowboy because of memories of her mother’s disastrous relationships, it’s really too bad that the handsome man she keeps running into and sharing a panicked moment in a stuck elevator with is the embodiment of a cowboy. Sure, Davis is also a Ranger, a devoted law officer with the skills and ability to take a different road from what she expects… but still he’s a cowboy. Soon she’ll discover just how much she’s going to need this cowboy, in more ways than the obvious rescuer that he naturally is. Can she take the bravery she found in a tense situation and use it to still her personal fears? Really, it all comes down to trusting the man… no matter what hat he wears.

As I continue reading this series (quite happily) I’m finding that each unique couple is completely natural and realistic within their danger filled, hoping for love situation. While most of us will never find ourselves in the middle of an extremely dangerous situation, these heroines make it all believable, and their heroes act accordingly with realistic responses to love and danger. Debra Holt has a way with words that builds a world quickly, realistically with characters we’d pass on the street or flirt a bit with ourselves. I have never not enjoyed falling into one of her stories, whether it’s been this series or others

I enjoyed Along Comes A Ranger so much. A likable, believable couple, some danger, some drama and a lot of stubborn. Their story will grab your attention and hold it until the ending. I’d recommend this story to any reader of Contemporary Romance. You’ll find interesting characters, a tight plot and enough suspense to keep you turning pages.

*I received an e-ARC of this novel from the publisher via NetGalley. That does not change what I think of this story. It is my choice to leave a review giving my personal opinion about this book.*

[Erin · Rating 1 out of 5]

For about 60-70% of this book I was screaming “stop being such a stupid bitch!”. I could hardly stand the main female protagonist to the point I almost stopped reading.

1. She stayed in a relationship that was, from the get go, going nowhere fast. I mean you could tell from the first second that they were all wrong for each other and I have not one clue how they met or why they were still seeing each other (they weren’t even sleeping together). It was just baffling and added nothing to the story whatsoever, in fact you could have erased the whole character of the politicians son and it wouldn’t have changed much, only the slight altering of how certain events came to pass would be needed and the rest could be left up the judgemental dumb bitch who was the main female protagonist.

2. When she did want to apologise and explain the first thing she assumed when she got to opportunity was that he was playing with her. The whole thing was horribly written. One moment she wants to find a way to reconcile the next she’s back to her old thought process from the very start of the book. It’s basically only when HE proposes that things change. If I were him I would have counted myself lucky for having dodged a bullet with the emotionally unstable cow.

3. Her seemingly only redeemable quality was when she saved the little girl who had been kidnapped. Otherwise she did nothing to either further the plot or solve any of her problems.

She too often reverted back to her original mindset completely obliterating any character development she had had and just all round pissed me off. The guy and the town were the only likeable aspects of this story to the point I was hoping she’d get hit by a bus or that she’d end up with the politician’s son and then go to jail so the handsome cowboy could find someone more stable to fall for.

I hope the hell there isn’t an actual person she is based off of because either 1. this is the most unflattering depiction in history or 2. that person is an undiagnosed person with bi-polar or something.

[patrick Lorelli · Rating 4 out of 5]

Stacy Smith has a rule of no cowboys. This goes back to her rough childhood and her mother being with different men. Now a successful best-selling author, and beautiful women she has caught the eye of one Davis McKenna. After a chance encounter at the hotel gym which they both were staying at they are now stuck on the elevator together. Once it begins to move again they agree to meet down stairs for breakfast and that is when she sees nothing but cowboys. She notices that Davis is one of them but also a Texas Ranger. She bows out of breakfast hoping she will never see him again only to run into him again a month later when she was at the state capital hoping to have lunch with her boyfriend who she doesn’t really want to be with but can’t decide how to break it off with him either. Now surprised by Davis and having lunch together, she finds herself actually having a nice time. The more you get into the story you find out that when she goes with Davis to his home town that she is actually drawn to that town and likes the people there. She begins to see a different side of cowboys and not the ones her mother would bring home and she is now beginning to realize that even the senator’s whom she has been dating is not the person for her. What she does not know is if Davis still has the same feelings for her after an argument they got into. The author also shows you her strength when she goes out to look for and finds a little girl that was kidnapped. There are so many things to like about this story and it is not just the two main characters. All of the characters are good. A very good book. I got this book from Netgalley.com I gave it 4 stars. Follow us at www.1rad-readerreviews.com

[Sarah · Rating 3 out of 5]

Stacy is a writer first and foremost and then she is a women, well at least in her mind thats how it works. While on yet another engagement Stacy run into someone she would rather have nothing to do wth because of what he stands for but she can't seem to get him out of her head. Davis can't shake the feeling that he needs to know her like his last breath and fate seems to have other options or does it. Can they find away to get to know each other or will the past just be to much?
I have been reading this series from the beginning and I have really enjoyed all the books so far, this one would have to be my least favorite though. I loved the fun characters and the small town feel found in this book. I really enjoyed the passion and mystery the author wrote into this story it really made the book hard to put down. I however felt the story lacking, the author started off with both main characters aspects just a little but did not carry that through out the whole book. The story does have adult scenes in it but it truly is every aspect of the story. The book and the series is so worth the read and I can't wait to read more from these characters.

[Nicole Hughes-Chen · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is a nice easy story that follows the path of love between a novelist and a cowboy.

I like McKenna Springs and the old boys playing chequers. I liked the homely feel of the town. I liked Davis' patience and persistence and did honestly think that Stacey should have done more to develop their relationship.

There were a few sloppy mistakes - words being missed out or written incorrectly, and at the tea party I think Stacey's name was used when the author was referring to the little girl. This brought down the rating.

I also feel like the author is trying to give us a bit of everything - a jack of all trades in the writing world; there is an attempt at modern women's, romance, racey, thriller, suspense....I feel like as a result the writing comes across as amateur. Stick to what you're good at and do that well.

Additionally I thought the kidnapping section could have been embellished more to really make that an unputdownable part of the book. Also Stacey's boyfriend could have been a more in-depth character which would have built up the suspense.

I do think this author has potential, but I think she needs to find her niche and go to town on that aspect, not try to do it all in one book. Sadly I can only offer this book a two star rating; I won't remember this one at all in a few months.

[Yvonne Cruz · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the first book I read of Ms Holt’s series Texas Lawmen , as well as the first book I read by this author. I have to say I not only enjoyed it , but was happy that it truly was a stand alone book in the series.
The story centers around Stacy Smith and Davis McKenna. Stacy is a successful romance author who meets Davis, a Texas Ranger, in the hotel’s gym and later they get stuck in the hotel’s elevator.
As attracted as she is to him, once she finds out he is a “cowboy” she refuses to go out with him.
Stacy’s childhood was not an easy one and her dislike of cowboys stems from that experience.
It was interesting to see these two develop and on again ,off again relationship. They have their adventures. She loves his hometown, McKenna Springs, and the townspeople end up admiring her, and consider her a friend.
The plot was entertaining and full of sub-plots. The characters were likable, though at times I got exasperated with Stacy.
I see potential for more books in this series.
I was gifted this copy by Tule Publishing. The opinions expressed are solely my own.

[Una · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the first of Debra Holt’s books I’ve read and I assure you it won’t be the last. I was hooked within the first 10 pages.

We have a successful romance writer Stacy Smith speaking at a writer’s convention and we have Davis McKenna also at the same hotel for a convention of Texas Rangers. There is a retrieved towel, a stuck elevator and an agreement to meet for breakfast where Stacy discovers, oops, he’s a Texas Ranger, a cowboy, and she does NOT date cowboys—not ever. She says thank you but no thank you to breakfast and thinks that is that. Back home in Austin Stacy tries to get back to work but can’t get Davis out of her mind. Davis is also intrigued and can’t get Stacy out of his mind so does a little sleuthing to find out where she lives and more about her. As the story progresses Davis tries to break down Stacy’s barriers but is she weakening her stance or not. Just when things look like we’re headed for the HEA ending all kinds of problems come up and the action is enough to keep you turning the pages as fast as you can read.

This was book three in a series of four but definitely works as a stand alone. Now off to get the other three in this series!

[CoffeeTimeRomance andMore · Rating 5 out of 5]

Debra Holt has done it again. I love, love, love the writing of Debra Holt. If you have not enjoyed one of her books then what are you waiting for? The Texas Lawmen Series is an excellent start and Davis will convert any cowboy hater into a true fan of these sexy men who have honor, love of home and family, as well as the sexy looks to hook any woman he turns his eye to. I love how Stacy did not make it easy for her cowboy pursuer. The true magnificence of Ms. Holt’s writing is the touches she puts in her hometowns. The genius of Ned and Murphy from McKenna Springs must be experienced to be appreciated. I highly recommend Along Came a Ranger, the Texas Lawmen Series, and anything written by Debra Holt.
Delane
Reviewer for Coffee Time Romance & More
Full Review @ Coffee Time Romance & More

[Margaret Sholders · Rating 5 out of 5]

I will tell you this now that you will need tissues! This story is set in Texas. Debra gave us the best people and story lines. Stacy is her heroine who dislikes Cowboys from her Mom. Davis is a Cowboy and is also a Texas Ranger. Stacy is a Romance writer and is trying to take another step as long as she doesn't write a cowboy. Davis goes on calls. Stacy is almost part of the family. The Senator and his son Donnie want Stacy to marry him. Major Spoiler! Someone is a bad boy! Davis is tying to change Stacy's way of thinking. There is a dangerous call for a little girl who was kidnapped. This is a scary Major Spoiler! They love each other but always misunderstand. I hope you will run to check this book out. This is a good story to choose this read. I read it in one day! You won't want to put this one down! Give this reading a chance! I volunteered to read and review this book.

[Paula · Rating 4 out of 5]

Along Came a Ranger by Debra Holt is entertaining story of a Texas Ranger winning the heart of an independent stubborn romance writer. It is an easy flowing read with likable characters. Well, the two main characters are likable there are a couple of sleazy characters too that provide the extra drama in this story. I also found many of the supporting characters to be fun especially Ned and his checker playing buddy.

Davis McKenna is the perfect hero in this story as he determinedly goes about wooing Stacy. He does what I imagine most women wish men did. He starts by offering friendship that he hopes will grow into more. Such a gentleman. Smart too, as he gently shows Stacy the flaews in her judgements. Romance for the writer makes an even better story than those that she writes. I think Stacy would agree.

An ARC of the book was given to me by the publisher through Net Galley.

[Karen Roma · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 ½ Star Review…..

Throughout the Texas Lawmen series, Ms Holt has continued to provide readers with exciting, action-packed, well-rounded stories, that will capture any romantics imagination as she highlights the diversity of her characters.

The Texas Lawmen are larger than life, and true to any alpha male they display and unending desire to protect, serve and adore the women who capture their hearts. Davis and Stacey’s story was enthralling and held my complete attention from beginning to end as they navigated the rocky road to eternal happiness.

This is definitely a series I’m happy to recommend, as I’ve fallen for ALL these Texas Rangers and can’t wait to read even more of their adventures as they wade their way through the turbulent waters of love.

[Paula Pugh · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book has a little bit of mystery and a lot of confusion that ensue when Ranger Davis McKenna and Stacey Smith (aka Sabrina Noelle) meet at a hotel gym and later get stuck in an elevator. He's a cowboy and she is so not ever going to date, much less consider, a cowboy. He has other ideas about that and subtly chases her showing her little by little that all cowboys are not created equal. There's so much more to how he does this but it would spoil everything to write about it. A huge misunderstanding ruins all his work and drives a wedge between them that will take a sledge hammer to destroy. Just say, there's a little girl, a creepy politician, a plan to destroy someone and other things blending into a terrific story.

[Bette Hansen · Rating 5 out of 5]

A truly great read! Loved Davis and definitely want one of my own. I could feel the sparks between Davis and Stacy and wanted to see them together. The story has a nice easy pace to it and it's perfect for a nice relaxing afternoon.

Stacy Smith may be a romance writer but she's not sure love is out there for her. She does have one hard and fast rule for dating. No cowboys. After her mother's string of them she knows she wants nothing to do with them. When she gets stranded in an elevator with Davis McKenna and he's able to talk her down from a full blown panic attack she knows he's something special. Too bad he's a cowboy and a Texas Ranger on top of that. She's determined not to let him close. He's just as determined to break down her walls.

I recommend this one.

[Cindy Caron · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book! Nothing like a man on a mission, determined to win the heart of the woman he knows deep down to be his soul mate, even if she hasn't realized it yet. A chance meeting in a stuck elevator brings Stacy and Davis together. Now, all he has to do is to make sure they stay together! Stacy has always kept a vow that she will never date a cowboy, let alone marry one! Her mother's track record made sure of that! But when sexy ranger Davis blows into her life, not once, but twice, her determination slowly looses ground as he vamps up his campaign to win her over.
A beautiful love story with all of the ups and downs, safety and danger, and struggles in love. Well written with an easy to follow flow, you won't want to put it down until the last word!