What do you think?
Rate this book
The Ranger Brigade: Family Secrets #6
Stranded with the Suspect
They’re both undercover…
And in way over their heads.
To arrest a powerful cult leader, Officer Simon Woolridge needs evidence former group member Andi Matheson doesn’t know she has. But the pregnant heiress is being targeted by two killers—and hiding even more secrets. Now as she and Simon go on the run through a ferocious Colorado blizzard, her resourcefulness ignites a passion the cynical agent never saw coming…and a trap they have only one shot to survive.
And in way over their heads.
To arrest a powerful cult leader, Officer Simon Woolridge needs evidence former group member Andi Matheson doesn’t know she has. But the pregnant heiress is being targeted by two killers—and hiding even more secrets. Now as she and Simon go on the run through a ferocious Colorado blizzard, her resourcefulness ignites a passion the cynical agent never saw coming…and a trap they have only one shot to survive.
- GenresRomanceRomantic Suspense
256 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 1, 2018
27 people are currently reading
39 people want to read
About the author
Cindi Myers
462 books117 followersPseudonym: Cynthia Sterling
Cindi Myers worked as a newspaper reporter, travel agent and medical clinic manager before turning to writing full time. She's written both historical and contemporary romance, as well as dozens of short stories and nonfiction articles. Cindi thinks writers have the best job in the world.
Former president of San Antonio Romance Authors, Cindi is a member of Romance Writers of America, Novelists Inc., and Rocky Mountain Fiction Writers.
She and her husband and their two dogs live in the mountains Southwest of Denver. When she's not caught up in creating new characters and stories, Cindi enjoys reading, quilting, gardening, skiing and hiking. She's also in demand as a speaker, teaching workshops and making presentations to both local and national writing groups.
Cindi Myers worked as a newspaper reporter, travel agent and medical clinic manager before turning to writing full time. She's written both historical and contemporary romance, as well as dozens of short stories and nonfiction articles. Cindi thinks writers have the best job in the world.
Former president of San Antonio Romance Authors, Cindi is a member of Romance Writers of America, Novelists Inc., and Rocky Mountain Fiction Writers.
She and her husband and their two dogs live in the mountains Southwest of Denver. When she's not caught up in creating new characters and stories, Cindi enjoys reading, quilting, gardening, skiing and hiking. She's also in demand as a speaker, teaching workshops and making presentations to both local and national writing groups.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 8 of 8 reviews
February 17, 2019
Lucky me! Two 4 star books in a row! Stranded With The Suspect is a great cap-off to what has been an above average mini-series for the Intrigue line. Yes, the fourth book was a bit of a miss, and the ranger or some other person undercover at the cult in the previous books wore a little thin, but this final entry is a fast-paced, suspenseful thriller.
Cult leader Daniel Metwater is now on the run, his lies falling down around him. Andi Matherson, who has been a regular feature of all books, takes center stage for this one. As her 25th birthday approaches and she is set to receive her big inheritance, it is clear to the Ranger Brigade that Metwater is going to come after her, as becoming part of his cult essentially meant assigning all her wealth to him (much like Scientology, I guess!) Complicating things is an assassin from the Russian mob, who are after Metwater for other reasons, and he wants to use Andi as bait to capture Metwater!
Andi was an interesting heroine. She wasn't as kick-ass as the pregnant heroine in the previous book I read (Appalachian Prey) but she still had layers and complexity. As the book begins, she's still completely brainwashed by Metwater, still supporting him, even after he attacks her and punches her! Her turnaround perhaps wasn't too convincing due to the fact it was so quick, but this is a category romance with a limited word count! However, I appreciated the fact Myers gave us a heroine with a lot of emotional baggage and manipulation to get past.
Simon Woolridge was a solid hero. He was never condescending to Andi, and his actions supported his good character. Myers doesn't have to tell us he's a stand-up guy, she shows us, which is always refreshing. While I sometimes wanted to shake Andi over her initial stupidity, we were given a clear indication that she was the subject of manipulation that could fool anybody. I got a good feel for them as a couple and was invested in a happy ending for them.
And the suspense was great! The plot hits the ground running, and rarely lets up. Simon and Andi are travelling all around Colorado to try and stay safe, with Daniel and Victor constantly on their heels. It really gave the reader the opportunity to witness Daniel and Andi's resourcefulness and protective feelings towards one another. The plot wraps up how I expected it would , but that was fine. This mini-series has been a standout in the Intrigue line, with each book gradually furthering the plot, with each book standing on its own.
The title didn't make much sense, though! Who is stranded with what suspect? But I know Intrigue authors have no say over the title of their books. I was also surprised that so few characters from previous books showed up here. A couple get name-checked, and that's it. That was refreshing, but at the same time, this was the rare instance I wouldn't have minded a catch-up with them all, another testament as to why I have enjoyed this mini-series so much.
Cult leader Daniel Metwater is now on the run, his lies falling down around him. Andi Matherson, who has been a regular feature of all books, takes center stage for this one. As her 25th birthday approaches and she is set to receive her big inheritance, it is clear to the Ranger Brigade that Metwater is going to come after her, as becoming part of his cult essentially meant assigning all her wealth to him (much like Scientology, I guess!) Complicating things is an assassin from the Russian mob, who are after Metwater for other reasons, and he wants to use Andi as bait to capture Metwater!
Andi was an interesting heroine. She wasn't as kick-ass as the pregnant heroine in the previous book I read (Appalachian Prey) but she still had layers and complexity. As the book begins, she's still completely brainwashed by Metwater, still supporting him, even after he attacks her and punches her! Her turnaround perhaps wasn't too convincing due to the fact it was so quick, but this is a category romance with a limited word count! However, I appreciated the fact Myers gave us a heroine with a lot of emotional baggage and manipulation to get past.
Simon Woolridge was a solid hero. He was never condescending to Andi, and his actions supported his good character. Myers doesn't have to tell us he's a stand-up guy, she shows us, which is always refreshing. While I sometimes wanted to shake Andi over her initial stupidity, we were given a clear indication that she was the subject of manipulation that could fool anybody. I got a good feel for them as a couple and was invested in a happy ending for them.
And the suspense was great! The plot hits the ground running, and rarely lets up. Simon and Andi are travelling all around Colorado to try and stay safe, with Daniel and Victor constantly on their heels. It really gave the reader the opportunity to witness Daniel and Andi's resourcefulness and protective feelings towards one another. The plot wraps up how I expected it would , but that was fine. This mini-series has been a standout in the Intrigue line, with each book gradually furthering the plot, with each book standing on its own.
The title didn't make much sense, though! Who is stranded with what suspect? But I know Intrigue authors have no say over the title of their books. I was also surprised that so few characters from previous books showed up here. A couple get name-checked, and that's it. That was refreshing, but at the same time, this was the rare instance I wouldn't have minded a catch-up with them all, another testament as to why I have enjoyed this mini-series so much.
March 9, 2018
Exciting conclusion to the series. Andi Matheson (aka Asteria) has been part of the series from the beginning, as the Prophet's lover and most ardent supporter. She is a former socialite who gave up everything to join "The Family." Her blindness to Metwater's character irritated me, especially in the previous book (Missing in Blue Mesa). But as her history was revealed, I began to understand what drove her to where she was and ache for all she had been through. Underneath the fanatical supporter was a loving, caring woman who was looking for a way to care for her baby and find a way to give them a better future.
Simon has also been part of the Ranger Brigade from the beginning. He has come across as a cold, by-the-book officer who looks down on the members of the Family. He is determined to bring down Metwater and believes that Andi has the evidence that will enable him to do so. I often suspected that Simon had a thing for Andi, in spite of his attitude, and as the story progressed, I saw an entirely different side of him. Hiding under the grouchy, uptight cop was a caring, protective man whose experiences have affected the way he looks at the world.
I enjoyed the development of Andi and Simon's relationship. The book began with their usual adversarial standoff, as Simon insisted that Andi knows more than she's letting on, and Andi adamant in her belief in Metwater's innocence. It was interesting to see him admit the effect she had on him and made him want to protect her. I also liked how Andi, seeing him out of his uniform and usual environment, suddenly realized his appeal. Forced together to avoid the threats against Andi's life, both Simon and Andi discover that there is more to each other than either had suspected. I loved seeing Simon begin to appreciate Andi's strength and determination, as she endured everything without complaining. I liked the way that Andi broke down Simon's walls and saw the good and caring man that he didn't believe existed. I loved seeing tough-guy Simon turn sweet and tender as they gave in to their need for each other. The ending was fantastic. I loved how Simon offered himself and his imperfections and Andi's awesome response.
The suspense of the story was incredible and kept me glued to the pages. Throughout the series, there has been the suspicion that there was more to The Prophet and his actions than was immediately obvious. In the previous book, his mask had slipped completely, revealing a dangerous man. In this book, Andi is caught in the middle between a desperate Metwater and the equally desperate Russian who wants to use her as bait. The intensity continued to build with each threat or attack. I never knew from which direction it would come, keeping me up late as it all played out. The final confrontations were intense with some surprising twists and turns as all was revealed.
Simon has also been part of the Ranger Brigade from the beginning. He has come across as a cold, by-the-book officer who looks down on the members of the Family. He is determined to bring down Metwater and believes that Andi has the evidence that will enable him to do so. I often suspected that Simon had a thing for Andi, in spite of his attitude, and as the story progressed, I saw an entirely different side of him. Hiding under the grouchy, uptight cop was a caring, protective man whose experiences have affected the way he looks at the world.
I enjoyed the development of Andi and Simon's relationship. The book began with their usual adversarial standoff, as Simon insisted that Andi knows more than she's letting on, and Andi adamant in her belief in Metwater's innocence. It was interesting to see him admit the effect she had on him and made him want to protect her. I also liked how Andi, seeing him out of his uniform and usual environment, suddenly realized his appeal. Forced together to avoid the threats against Andi's life, both Simon and Andi discover that there is more to each other than either had suspected. I loved seeing Simon begin to appreciate Andi's strength and determination, as she endured everything without complaining. I liked the way that Andi broke down Simon's walls and saw the good and caring man that he didn't believe existed. I loved seeing tough-guy Simon turn sweet and tender as they gave in to their need for each other. The ending was fantastic. I loved how Simon offered himself and his imperfections and Andi's awesome response.
The suspense of the story was incredible and kept me glued to the pages. Throughout the series, there has been the suspicion that there was more to The Prophet and his actions than was immediately obvious. In the previous book, his mask had slipped completely, revealing a dangerous man. In this book, Andi is caught in the middle between a desperate Metwater and the equally desperate Russian who wants to use her as bait. The intensity continued to build with each threat or attack. I never knew from which direction it would come, keeping me up late as it all played out. The final confrontations were intense with some surprising twists and turns as all was revealed.
February 20, 2018
An invigorating ride to escape The Family cult, and its deadly and dangerous leader. The mini-series about the Ranger Brigade's investigation to The Family comes to a thrilling and treacherous end, where Asteria's fate and future are resolved.
Asteria, aka Andi Matheson, has been part of each story from the beginning of the series. Her back-story is a twisted mangle of betrayal, deceit, and disappointments. She is pregnant with a child of an FBI agent who turned out be married with a family. Her father is a former senator who in revenge went and killed the FBI agent and is now in prison. She was the lover of the Prophet at The Family camp yet she found out he was sleeping with other women as well.
Andi has come across as a desolate, desperate, yet not very warm and friendly person since the beginning of the series. I was worried that I could not connect with her and could not learn to like her but that was an unfounded worry, indeed. When I got to know the story from Andi's point of view and when I see the thoughts and emotions gerning inside her, my heart went out to her immediately. She is determined to change her sociality lifestyle of superficial connections, and in the process, without any guidance, got lost and misguided, bringing her to the situation she is now in. She is a loving, caring, and passionate woman, who wants to find her place in the world, take care of her child and build a good, solid future for both of them.
Officer Simon Woolridge has also made an appearance in the previous novels in the series, but more in the background than Andi. Simon is a marvelous character, he is by-the-book law enforcement agent, he is stubborn, judgmental, and quick to make up his mind. He comes across at first as a crumby and uptight, but inside there is a loving, caring, considerate man with a passionate heart and deep, burning attraction for Andi and need to keep her and her baby safe. I absolutely loved Simon, with all the imperfections that he owned and admitted himself, as well.
The road Andi and Simon have to take to find the new beginning, to find safety and peace is a roll-a-coaster ride of danger, threats, and attacks. The constant menace, peril, and death threats keep the intensity high throughout the story. The mishaps and lack of backup keep both Andi and Simon on their toes, causing them to make few costly mistakes.
The relationship between Andi and Simon is filled with passion and tender, sweet feelings. I thought the connection between them was authentic. I believed in the feelings developing between them despite Andi's past. The ending was just perfect considering everything they, and especially Andi, had gone through in the previous year.
Andi and Dimon's story felt like 'this is how it was supposed to work out' and it felt right and destined to be so. So many swoon-worthy moments, so much emotion, and affection. It was hard to pick up my favorite moment, my favorite scene.
I have enjoyed this series from the very beginning with its unique setting, the alluring and engaging cast of characters, each story unique, filled with emotions and danger.
An exciting, entertaining, and captivating tale that had me up late at night so I could make sure that justice was served, that Andi and Simon found their safe haven in life, their destiny, and future together.
~ Four Spoons with a teaspoon on the side
Asteria, aka Andi Matheson, has been part of each story from the beginning of the series. Her back-story is a twisted mangle of betrayal, deceit, and disappointments. She is pregnant with a child of an FBI agent who turned out be married with a family. Her father is a former senator who in revenge went and killed the FBI agent and is now in prison. She was the lover of the Prophet at The Family camp yet she found out he was sleeping with other women as well.
Andi has come across as a desolate, desperate, yet not very warm and friendly person since the beginning of the series. I was worried that I could not connect with her and could not learn to like her but that was an unfounded worry, indeed. When I got to know the story from Andi's point of view and when I see the thoughts and emotions gerning inside her, my heart went out to her immediately. She is determined to change her sociality lifestyle of superficial connections, and in the process, without any guidance, got lost and misguided, bringing her to the situation she is now in. She is a loving, caring, and passionate woman, who wants to find her place in the world, take care of her child and build a good, solid future for both of them.
Officer Simon Woolridge has also made an appearance in the previous novels in the series, but more in the background than Andi. Simon is a marvelous character, he is by-the-book law enforcement agent, he is stubborn, judgmental, and quick to make up his mind. He comes across at first as a crumby and uptight, but inside there is a loving, caring, considerate man with a passionate heart and deep, burning attraction for Andi and need to keep her and her baby safe. I absolutely loved Simon, with all the imperfections that he owned and admitted himself, as well.
The road Andi and Simon have to take to find the new beginning, to find safety and peace is a roll-a-coaster ride of danger, threats, and attacks. The constant menace, peril, and death threats keep the intensity high throughout the story. The mishaps and lack of backup keep both Andi and Simon on their toes, causing them to make few costly mistakes.
The relationship between Andi and Simon is filled with passion and tender, sweet feelings. I thought the connection between them was authentic. I believed in the feelings developing between them despite Andi's past. The ending was just perfect considering everything they, and especially Andi, had gone through in the previous year.
Andi and Dimon's story felt like 'this is how it was supposed to work out' and it felt right and destined to be so. So many swoon-worthy moments, so much emotion, and affection. It was hard to pick up my favorite moment, my favorite scene.
I have enjoyed this series from the very beginning with its unique setting, the alluring and engaging cast of characters, each story unique, filled with emotions and danger.
An exciting, entertaining, and captivating tale that had me up late at night so I could make sure that justice was served, that Andi and Simon found their safe haven in life, their destiny, and future together.
~ Four Spoons with a teaspoon on the side
January 18, 2018
“Stranded with the Suspect” by Cindi Myers is part of The Ranger Brigade: Family Secrets miniseries. This installment features Agent Simon Woolridge and former socialite Andi Matheson.
Known as Asteria from the cult The Family, Andi has been sent away by the Prophet, Daniel Metwater, for her safety when in reality she needs protection from him. Simon Woolridge is the one to do it.
Simon is a tough cop and says exactly what he’s thinking. He’s the type of cop you’d want on your side though he doesn’t see himself as a ‘good’ guy.
Andi, pregnant and about to give birth, doesn’t want to believe the worst about people. She is tougher than people give her credit for and she proves it time and time again.
Simon and Andi are perfect together. They balance each other – Andi not wanting to believe the worst about someone when that’s all Simon has ever seen. Their path to happily-ever-after was tender and moving to see.
“Stranded with the Suspect” is an exhilarating ride from the beginning to the end when we learn the truth about the Prophet. Simon has to be one of my all-time favorite heroes.
This story is a must read for all fans of the romantic suspense genre.
Copy for review provided by author
Known as Asteria from the cult The Family, Andi has been sent away by the Prophet, Daniel Metwater, for her safety when in reality she needs protection from him. Simon Woolridge is the one to do it.
Simon is a tough cop and says exactly what he’s thinking. He’s the type of cop you’d want on your side though he doesn’t see himself as a ‘good’ guy.
Andi, pregnant and about to give birth, doesn’t want to believe the worst about people. She is tougher than people give her credit for and she proves it time and time again.
Simon and Andi are perfect together. They balance each other – Andi not wanting to believe the worst about someone when that’s all Simon has ever seen. Their path to happily-ever-after was tender and moving to see.
“Stranded with the Suspect” is an exhilarating ride from the beginning to the end when we learn the truth about the Prophet. Simon has to be one of my all-time favorite heroes.
This story is a must read for all fans of the romantic suspense genre.
Copy for review provided by author
September 7, 2023
This book was supposed to be a funny book my friends and I had picked out for each other to read from a thrift store in the romance section. I can happily say this was a thrill to read. Very quick read, constant action, plot twists you would never imagine, I had a great time reading this. It is no literary masterpiece but boy did it provide some fun entertainment.
Read
February 4, 2018Sheer stupidity.
The heroine is pregnant with someone else' child and then gets involved with a preacher and is in love with him(only when he attacks her does she realise her "stupidity") and then spending just 24 hours with the hero she is attracted to him and they pleasure each other. Can anyone be more fickle?
I have not read the previous books so I don't really know the background but this was just too idiotic.
The hero takes heroine into protective custody but always seems to mess it up.
I have finished only half of this book but I am too irritated to continue further. Don't think I am going to continue it.
The heroine is pregnant with someone else' child and then gets involved with a preacher and is in love with him(only when he attacks her does she realise her "stupidity") and then spending just 24 hours with the hero she is attracted to him and they pleasure each other. Can anyone be more fickle?
I have not read the previous books so I don't really know the background but this was just too idiotic.
The hero takes heroine into protective custody but always seems to mess it up.
I have finished only half of this book but I am too irritated to continue further. Don't think I am going to continue it.
Read
March 1, 2018Miniseries: The Ranger Brigade: Family Secrets
Read
March 1, 2018Miniseries: The Ranger Brigade: Family Secrets
Displaying 1 - 8 of 8 reviews