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Texas Ranger Thrillers #1
Texas Ranger
Officer Rory Yates is called home to settle deadly scores.
Rory Yates's skill and commitment to the badge have seen him rise through the ranks in the Texas Ranger division, but it came at a cost – his marriage.
When he receives a worrying phone call from his ex-wife, Anne, Rory speeds to what used to be their marital home. He arrives to a horrifying crime scene and a scathing accusation: he is named a suspect in Anne's murder.
Rory's only choice is to find the killer himself. He risks his job, his pride, his reputation among everyone he loves to pursue the truth.
Yates follows the Ranger creed – never to surrender. That code just might bring him out alive.
Rory Yates's skill and commitment to the badge have seen him rise through the ranks in the Texas Ranger division, but it came at a cost – his marriage.
When he receives a worrying phone call from his ex-wife, Anne, Rory speeds to what used to be their marital home. He arrives to a horrifying crime scene and a scathing accusation: he is named a suspect in Anne's murder.
Rory's only choice is to find the killer himself. He risks his job, his pride, his reputation among everyone he loves to pursue the truth.
Yates follows the Ranger creed – never to surrender. That code just might bring him out alive.
Audio CD
First published April 5, 2018
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About the author
James Patterson
955 books355k followersOfficial US Site
Official UK Site
JIMMY Patterson Books
ReadKiddoRead
James Patterson is the most popular storyteller of our time and the creator of such unforgettable characters and series as Alex Cross, the Women’s Murder Club, Jane Smith, and Maximum Ride. He has coauthored #1 bestselling novels with Bill Clinton, Dolly Parton, and Michael Crichton, as well as collaborated on #1 bestselling nonfiction, including The Idaho Four, Walk in My Combat Boots, and Filthy Rich. Patterson has told the story of his own life in the #1 bestselling autobiography James Patterson by James Patterson. He is the recipient of an Edgar Award, ten Emmy Awards, the Literarian Award from the National Book Foundation, and the National Humanities Medal.
Official UK Site
JIMMY Patterson Books
ReadKiddoRead
James Patterson is the most popular storyteller of our time and the creator of such unforgettable characters and series as Alex Cross, the Women’s Murder Club, Jane Smith, and Maximum Ride. He has coauthored #1 bestselling novels with Bill Clinton, Dolly Parton, and Michael Crichton, as well as collaborated on #1 bestselling nonfiction, including The Idaho Four, Walk in My Combat Boots, and Filthy Rich. Patterson has told the story of his own life in the #1 bestselling autobiography James Patterson by James Patterson. He is the recipient of an Edgar Award, ten Emmy Awards, the Literarian Award from the National Book Foundation, and the National Humanities Medal.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,564 reviews
April 11, 2025
Fun. Can't wait to get off the wait list for book two.
Highly recommend listening to the audiobook. The narration by Christopher Ryan Grant is spectacular. His Texas drawls are beyond reproach. In addition, his female vocalizations were so good I actually forgot he was the solo performer. Talk about talent. Looking forward to listening to him for the duration of the series.
Highly recommend listening to the audiobook. The narration by Christopher Ryan Grant is spectacular. His Texas drawls are beyond reproach. In addition, his female vocalizations were so good I actually forgot he was the solo performer. Talk about talent. Looking forward to listening to him for the duration of the series.
June 20, 2018
In another of his endless collaborations, James Patterson has called on Aaron Bourelle to work alongside him on this standalone novel. Part murder mystery, part protagonist self-discovery, this piece takes the reader down to the heart of Texas. Rory Yates is part of the elite Texas Rangers, one of only two hundred in the entire state. Best known for his quick draw capabilities, Yates has found himself in a few situations of shooting first and asking questions later. After one such event, he takes a call from his ex-wife, Anne, who’s been getting creepy messages and items left on her property. Yates makes his way across the state to check on her, only to find her dead body. Yates is soon cleared as a suspect, but has an idea who might be responsible and pushes the local police to investigate. While he may be a Ranger, this is one case that Rory Yates will not be welcome to join, officially. Back in his hometown and trying to chase down leads, Yates reconnects with his family and some of his former sweethearts, all of whom help stir up scores of emotions and memories from his time as a child and being married to Anne. With a killer on the loose, Yates cannot let his past cloud the present, even if it means turning down new love, or rekindling a past flame. When another person close to Yates turn up dead, stalked in the same manner, Yates is sure the killer has him in the crosshairs and will do whatever it takes, legal or not, to end this. Patterson and Bourelle have an interesting one-off novel here that seeks to pull the reader in from the outset. Perfect for those who have travel plans or need some beach reading. Patterson collaborations always fill a gap between substantive reads and this one is decent enough to recommend without hesitation.
I have come to realise that while many see the name James Patterson and flock to the book, I tend to give it a second thought, having been on the rollercoaster ride that is the Patterson Express. One can never know what to expect, particularly with one-off novels. That said, Bourelle has made a name for himself with some stronger collaborative efforts—Patterson’s BookShots—and so I trust something of a higher caliber when I see their joint efforts. This story worked well and kept me reading, which says a lot when it comes to the massive pile of books I have to read. Rory Yates is an interesting protagonist, by no means unique, but the spin put on this rough exterior cop is one that kept me intrigued throughout. I was not sure how Patterson and Bourelle might have approached him, but they did well to offer a hard-nosed man who demands respect with a soft side when it comes to those he loves. Yates has that ‘nothing will stop me’ mentality, perfect for a stubborn cop, though does not reek of ‘redneck traditionalism’, should such a stereotype deserve a formal label. The handful of other characters who influence Yates’ progress in the novel serve to eke out interesting tidbits about the protagonist and his backstory without taking the reader down too many rabbit holes and losing momentum throughout the narrative. The story is surely interesting, as it gives the reader a glimpse into how a cop might handle a murder investigation of someone close to them, though keeps a unique angle as the narrative progresses by tossing sub-plots related to self-discovery throughout. With little time to waste, the authors push forward and force the reader to juggle both types of storyline simultaneously. Using Patterson’s trademark short chapters full of cliffhangers, the story never has a chance to slow and the resolution comes crashing through the gates in the closing pages, with that lingering wonder throughout who might be responsible. My rating has nothing to do with the quality of the book, but more that I want to be blown out of the water, as Patterson has been known to do on the rare occasion. A decent story, but I would not offer up a ‘stellar’ label at this point.
Kudos, Messrs. Patterson and Bourelle, for your ongoing collaborative work. I can see wonderful things within these pages and hope you’ll find more time to write in the coming months and years.
Love/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
A Book for All Seasons, a different sort of Book Challenge: https://www.goodreads.com/group/show/...
I have come to realise that while many see the name James Patterson and flock to the book, I tend to give it a second thought, having been on the rollercoaster ride that is the Patterson Express. One can never know what to expect, particularly with one-off novels. That said, Bourelle has made a name for himself with some stronger collaborative efforts—Patterson’s BookShots—and so I trust something of a higher caliber when I see their joint efforts. This story worked well and kept me reading, which says a lot when it comes to the massive pile of books I have to read. Rory Yates is an interesting protagonist, by no means unique, but the spin put on this rough exterior cop is one that kept me intrigued throughout. I was not sure how Patterson and Bourelle might have approached him, but they did well to offer a hard-nosed man who demands respect with a soft side when it comes to those he loves. Yates has that ‘nothing will stop me’ mentality, perfect for a stubborn cop, though does not reek of ‘redneck traditionalism’, should such a stereotype deserve a formal label. The handful of other characters who influence Yates’ progress in the novel serve to eke out interesting tidbits about the protagonist and his backstory without taking the reader down too many rabbit holes and losing momentum throughout the narrative. The story is surely interesting, as it gives the reader a glimpse into how a cop might handle a murder investigation of someone close to them, though keeps a unique angle as the narrative progresses by tossing sub-plots related to self-discovery throughout. With little time to waste, the authors push forward and force the reader to juggle both types of storyline simultaneously. Using Patterson’s trademark short chapters full of cliffhangers, the story never has a chance to slow and the resolution comes crashing through the gates in the closing pages, with that lingering wonder throughout who might be responsible. My rating has nothing to do with the quality of the book, but more that I want to be blown out of the water, as Patterson has been known to do on the rare occasion. A decent story, but I would not offer up a ‘stellar’ label at this point.
Kudos, Messrs. Patterson and Bourelle, for your ongoing collaborative work. I can see wonderful things within these pages and hope you’ll find more time to write in the coming months and years.
Love/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
A Book for All Seasons, a different sort of Book Challenge: https://www.goodreads.com/group/show/...
August 30, 2018
Many hours away and on a case, Texas Ranger Rory Yates finally managed to call his ex-wife, who had left several messages. She was frightened; she was being harassed – Anne asked could Rory come home. Although Rory and Anne’s marriage had been strained because of his job, they were better friends after the divorce. So it was natural that he would head back to his old home town of Redbud, to help Anne through whatever was happening to her. But he was too late – Anne was dead; and her murder was brutal.
Rory was refused any contact with the investigation and he believed the cop in charge wasn’t doing a competent job. When a second murder occurred, he decided, against orders, to do his own investigation. Rory needed answers.
In the meantime, Rory was surrounded by people who cared – his parents, brothers and their wives plus Anne’s parents. All understood what he was going through and encouraged him to find the solution to who had shattered lives. But could he? Would he? His decision could cost him his position in the Rangers; he didn’t want that, but knew he needed results more.
Texas Rangers by James Patterson is a blend of fast-paced action, and slow, emotional downtime. Rory is a stubborn, tough cop – perfect for the elite of the Texas Rangers – but he has a soft and gentle side to him when it concerns his loved ones. An enjoyable read, Texas Rangers is a crime/mystery novel I don’t hesitate to recommend.
Rory was refused any contact with the investigation and he believed the cop in charge wasn’t doing a competent job. When a second murder occurred, he decided, against orders, to do his own investigation. Rory needed answers.
In the meantime, Rory was surrounded by people who cared – his parents, brothers and their wives plus Anne’s parents. All understood what he was going through and encouraged him to find the solution to who had shattered lives. But could he? Would he? His decision could cost him his position in the Rangers; he didn’t want that, but knew he needed results more.
Texas Rangers by James Patterson is a blend of fast-paced action, and slow, emotional downtime. Rory is a stubborn, tough cop – perfect for the elite of the Texas Rangers – but he has a soft and gentle side to him when it concerns his loved ones. An enjoyable read, Texas Rangers is a crime/mystery novel I don’t hesitate to recommend.
August 16, 2018
A Major Disappointment!
I felt like I was in High School! James Patterson is getting lazy, or just doesn't care anymore, what he puts his name on. A grown man, a Texas Ranger, behaving like a kid in Highschool. The great QB, with his harem of Cheerleaders! Having slept and dated every one of them! Exciting! Geez! He is a narcissist, thinking he's God's gift to women. And a lousy Lawman, on top of it! Back to the drawing board, Mr. Patterson!
I felt like I was in High School! James Patterson is getting lazy, or just doesn't care anymore, what he puts his name on. A grown man, a Texas Ranger, behaving like a kid in Highschool. The great QB, with his harem of Cheerleaders! Having slept and dated every one of them! Exciting! Geez! He is a narcissist, thinking he's God's gift to women. And a lousy Lawman, on top of it! Back to the drawing board, Mr. Patterson!
September 14, 2018
There are a few issues with this story around a hot-headed ranger and his conclusions. Mostly, the story was too predictable until the end when it's too late. 6 of 10 stars
August 30, 2018
Let me be honest up front. I read most of James Patterson’s books and have for several years. Some might ask why and that’s another whole discussion best saved for another day. I have really enjoyed some, liked some, and didn’t really care for others. For the most part, I treat them like mind candy and don’t consider them to be too memorable. However, once in a while I am pleasantly surprised with a gem that shines. “Texas Ranger” was one of those nice blessings that caught me off-guard and delivered a winning read.
“Texas Ranger” is about Rory Yates, an overly dedicated lawman who has been punished because of his lightning fast ability to draw and outshoot the criminals he comes in contact with. Rory just finishes up with capturing a felon responsible for transporting and holding illegal immigrants for extortion money from relatives, when his ex-wife, Anne, calls for help. Anne is a high school teacher who still lives in Rory’s hometown of Redbud, along with his family and friends. She has been receiving death threats and she needs his help. Anne is and always has been the love-of-Rory’s life, even when his job cost him their marriage.
When Rory arrives in town he is shocked to find that Anne has been murdered, shot 6 times in her home at close range. Even worse, Rory is considered a suspect by his hometown police. Rory’s attention is directed at Calvin Richards, Anne’s ex-boyfriend, who broke up with her and left town days before she was killed. Rory had arrested Calvin in the past and their mutual love for Anne has always made them enemies. Rory is told to back off and let the local investigators do their job or his career will be at risk, but that cannot stop him trying to gain justice for Anne.
Although this is not a new storyline for any of us, it is still well-delivered with a multi-layered and flawed cast. Rory is well intentioned, but emotional and makes some dumb mistakes. Other characters are also introduced, most with more depth than most Patterson related novels. Rory’s family, including a father, who’s wisdom and influence on Rory plays a key part in keeping him from unraveling. Rory’s friends from high school, including Freddy Hernandez, now the County Medical Examiner, and Anne’s two best friends – Sara Beth and Patty – both of whom have known and dated Rory before and after his divorce with Anne. And that doesn’t include Willow, the new country singer at the local western bar, who Rory finds himself being drawn too. Each of these characters add an extra layer or realness and interest to the plot as Rory tries to find the killer.
I know that Patterson has teamed up with several different writers over the years, but this time with Andrew Bourelle is different. The overall plotting is still standard Patterson, but that’s where is seems to end in many ways. First, the setting is a key ingredient. You really feel like you are in small town, Texas. The geography, the buildings, the vehicles, the local western bar, and especially the songs that are played and sung all contribute to an ambience that highlights the story being told. Second, as mentioned before, the characters are multi-dimensional and flawed. They are real and interesting. Third, the story has a certain smooth rhythm that ebbs and flows like a classic country or rock song. Although Patterson novels are fast-paced, the tempo, flow of words, and transition from scene to scene just seem to work together in unison better in this particular book.
And just in case you think that I am ignoring some of the key weaknesses with Patterson’s books, I am not. Were there were moments that weren’t realistic? Yes. I recognize that. But do we read Patterson for that reason? No way. We read him for the emotional and heart-wrenching thrillers that help us escape our daily grind and enjoy an exciting read that makes us forget about all else. And when the story works well, we tend to set aside those obvious plot weaknesses.
Overall, Patterson and Bourelle’s first time partnership pays off in a positive way, at least for this reader. I don’t know why it and I don’t care. I just thoroughly enjoyed it. When I picked up my recent batch of books from the library, there were more than normal, and I thought maybe I should skip this one. I am so glad that I didn’t. It was the definition of a guilty pleasure for all of the right reasons. If you only read one or two books by James Patterson this year, please make sure this is one of them. I promise you will be worth read.
Like some of Patterson’s other esteemed characters, like Alex Cross, I cannot wait to visit Rory Yates again, as well as his family and hometown again.
James Patterson – please connect with Andrew Bourelle again to continue Rory’s story.
“Texas Ranger” is about Rory Yates, an overly dedicated lawman who has been punished because of his lightning fast ability to draw and outshoot the criminals he comes in contact with. Rory just finishes up with capturing a felon responsible for transporting and holding illegal immigrants for extortion money from relatives, when his ex-wife, Anne, calls for help. Anne is a high school teacher who still lives in Rory’s hometown of Redbud, along with his family and friends. She has been receiving death threats and she needs his help. Anne is and always has been the love-of-Rory’s life, even when his job cost him their marriage.
When Rory arrives in town he is shocked to find that Anne has been murdered, shot 6 times in her home at close range. Even worse, Rory is considered a suspect by his hometown police. Rory’s attention is directed at Calvin Richards, Anne’s ex-boyfriend, who broke up with her and left town days before she was killed. Rory had arrested Calvin in the past and their mutual love for Anne has always made them enemies. Rory is told to back off and let the local investigators do their job or his career will be at risk, but that cannot stop him trying to gain justice for Anne.
Although this is not a new storyline for any of us, it is still well-delivered with a multi-layered and flawed cast. Rory is well intentioned, but emotional and makes some dumb mistakes. Other characters are also introduced, most with more depth than most Patterson related novels. Rory’s family, including a father, who’s wisdom and influence on Rory plays a key part in keeping him from unraveling. Rory’s friends from high school, including Freddy Hernandez, now the County Medical Examiner, and Anne’s two best friends – Sara Beth and Patty – both of whom have known and dated Rory before and after his divorce with Anne. And that doesn’t include Willow, the new country singer at the local western bar, who Rory finds himself being drawn too. Each of these characters add an extra layer or realness and interest to the plot as Rory tries to find the killer.
I know that Patterson has teamed up with several different writers over the years, but this time with Andrew Bourelle is different. The overall plotting is still standard Patterson, but that’s where is seems to end in many ways. First, the setting is a key ingredient. You really feel like you are in small town, Texas. The geography, the buildings, the vehicles, the local western bar, and especially the songs that are played and sung all contribute to an ambience that highlights the story being told. Second, as mentioned before, the characters are multi-dimensional and flawed. They are real and interesting. Third, the story has a certain smooth rhythm that ebbs and flows like a classic country or rock song. Although Patterson novels are fast-paced, the tempo, flow of words, and transition from scene to scene just seem to work together in unison better in this particular book.
And just in case you think that I am ignoring some of the key weaknesses with Patterson’s books, I am not. Were there were moments that weren’t realistic? Yes. I recognize that. But do we read Patterson for that reason? No way. We read him for the emotional and heart-wrenching thrillers that help us escape our daily grind and enjoy an exciting read that makes us forget about all else. And when the story works well, we tend to set aside those obvious plot weaknesses.
Overall, Patterson and Bourelle’s first time partnership pays off in a positive way, at least for this reader. I don’t know why it and I don’t care. I just thoroughly enjoyed it. When I picked up my recent batch of books from the library, there were more than normal, and I thought maybe I should skip this one. I am so glad that I didn’t. It was the definition of a guilty pleasure for all of the right reasons. If you only read one or two books by James Patterson this year, please make sure this is one of them. I promise you will be worth read.
Like some of Patterson’s other esteemed characters, like Alex Cross, I cannot wait to visit Rory Yates again, as well as his family and hometown again.
James Patterson – please connect with Andrew Bourelle again to continue Rory’s story.
December 22, 2025
I figured a book with the title “Texas Ranger” on the cover would be a fun read, and it wasn’t a bad read. It was a fun enough read, but the problem with this book is the central character, Texas Ranger Rory Yates isn’t that good a detective. After his ex-wife is murdered, Rory becomes obsessed with the idea that her boyfriend, Cal is the killer, and that’s it. He doesn’t really dig further than that. While the book did keep me turning pages, with its short chapters and somewhat compelling narrative, I still can’t recommend this book due to me not having any faith in the main character solving the murder.
Rory just sounds like a whiney high school kid, yet he’s in his mid-30s. The actual writing of the book isn’t bad, but the main character in insufferable and breaks a ton of laws taking this murder case into his own hands. Rory goes to the crime scene without permission, even at one point, driving from Texas to New Jersey to accuse Cal of the murder, as Cal is a truck driver.
The problem is Rory is a hothead. There’s also a subplot about Rory trying to decide between two women, Sara Beth who is his high school sweetheart and attractive local longue signer named Willow. There’s also another sub plot about Rory’s dad having cancer, but he only tells Rory and hides it from the rest of his family. The subplot about Rory’s various relationships becomes relevant with a twist at the end of the book. However, if I’m going to read a book about a guy solving an case, I want him to solve and not the events of the book. I want the guy I’m reading about to solve the case, and that’s the problem with “Texas Ranger”.
On a side note, this book did get me interested in why Texas has rangers while the rest of the country doesn’t. According to what I read, Texas Rangers have been around since 1835, and they still uphold this tradition. However, the idea was for these Rangers to defend then new republic of Texas from Native American and Mexican attacks. So, the actual root of Texas Rangers was racist sounding. I’m not trying to go all woke here in my review, but when you have a modern police force, why does Texas still need Rangers and why keep something with a racist history so alive in the first place? But I’m getting off subject.
Rory just sounds like a whiney high school kid, yet he’s in his mid-30s. The actual writing of the book isn’t bad, but the main character in insufferable and breaks a ton of laws taking this murder case into his own hands. Rory goes to the crime scene without permission, even at one point, driving from Texas to New Jersey to accuse Cal of the murder, as Cal is a truck driver.
The problem is Rory is a hothead. There’s also a subplot about Rory trying to decide between two women, Sara Beth who is his high school sweetheart and attractive local longue signer named Willow. There’s also another sub plot about Rory’s dad having cancer, but he only tells Rory and hides it from the rest of his family. The subplot about Rory’s various relationships becomes relevant with a twist at the end of the book. However, if I’m going to read a book about a guy solving an case, I want him to solve and not the events of the book. I want the guy I’m reading about to solve the case, and that’s the problem with “Texas Ranger”.
On a side note, this book did get me interested in why Texas has rangers while the rest of the country doesn’t. According to what I read, Texas Rangers have been around since 1835, and they still uphold this tradition. However, the idea was for these Rangers to defend then new republic of Texas from Native American and Mexican attacks. So, the actual root of Texas Rangers was racist sounding. I’m not trying to go all woke here in my review, but when you have a modern police force, why does Texas still need Rangers and why keep something with a racist history so alive in the first place? But I’m getting off subject.
September 13, 2025
Loved going back to discover the genesis of the Texas ranger and needless to say, it did not disappoint.
When Rory heads home to discover the love of his life murdered, he sets off trying to find her killer. Then another murder forces him to ask what could be going on, and who could be hunting down his loved ones?!
Solid 4 stars!!!!
When Rory heads home to discover the love of his life murdered, he sets off trying to find her killer. Then another murder forces him to ask what could be going on, and who could be hunting down his loved ones?!
Solid 4 stars!!!!
September 28, 2018
This is not a novel to be tossed aside lightly - it should be hurled away with great force -
(credit goes to Dorothy Parker - although some disagreement about provenance exists)
I can't believe James Patterson put his name on this.
I honestly thought this was mislabeled - it should be a young adult book - but giving it that label is an insult to young adults.
I should have trusted my instincts and stopped. Now I can never retrieve the time wasted on this drivel.
The plot is predictably simple minded - the so-called plot twist at the end is telegraphed several times many chapters before. There are truly weak attempts to hint at things not being as they seem - or to suggest the distraction the authors try to build is genuine but sadly things are exactly as expected.
The characters are simpering, juvenile and have no depth. One dimensional is a kind description.
Half the book is about how Rory, the purported tough Texas Ranger, simpers about who likes him, who he likes - he sounds like a middle schooler.
horrible - wouldn't get a passing grade in any high school English class.
(credit goes to Dorothy Parker - although some disagreement about provenance exists)
I can't believe James Patterson put his name on this.
I honestly thought this was mislabeled - it should be a young adult book - but giving it that label is an insult to young adults.
I should have trusted my instincts and stopped. Now I can never retrieve the time wasted on this drivel.
The plot is predictably simple minded - the so-called plot twist at the end is telegraphed several times many chapters before. There are truly weak attempts to hint at things not being as they seem - or to suggest the distraction the authors try to build is genuine but sadly things are exactly as expected.
The characters are simpering, juvenile and have no depth. One dimensional is a kind description.
Half the book is about how Rory, the purported tough Texas Ranger, simpers about who likes him, who he likes - he sounds like a middle schooler.
horrible - wouldn't get a passing grade in any high school English class.
December 19, 2023
4 Stars for Texas Ranger: Rory Yates, Book 1 (audiobook) James Patterson and Andrew Bourelle read by Christopher Ryan Grant.
Texas Ranger Rory Yates is trying to track down the person that killed his ex-wife. He has his eyes set on her new truck driving boyfriend. But then other women in his life are targeted. Who could have such a grudge against him? Could this guy really hate him this much?
Texas Ranger Rory Yates is trying to track down the person that killed his ex-wife. He has his eyes set on her new truck driving boyfriend. But then other women in his life are targeted. Who could have such a grudge against him? Could this guy really hate him this much?
March 30, 2020
It seems to always be a hit or miss when you wade through an endless library of James Patterson books. This one I was pleasantly surprised. It was entertaining and pretty well written with short chapters which Patterson is known for.
Rory Yates is a stubborn, tough cop – perfect for the Texas Rangers but he also has a gentle side when it concerns his loved ones. From Waco, TX to New Jersey, the story follows his efforts to find the killer ... one of the people murdered is his ex-wife. I didn't guess the killer right off the bat which was a good thing. Actually when the killer was revealed I was a bit shocked. References to Texas things like Shiner Bock, Whataburger and a few others gave it a real Texas feel since those are common down there. Overall it was a fun, enjoyable read.
Rory Yates is a stubborn, tough cop – perfect for the Texas Rangers but he also has a gentle side when it concerns his loved ones. From Waco, TX to New Jersey, the story follows his efforts to find the killer ... one of the people murdered is his ex-wife. I didn't guess the killer right off the bat which was a good thing. Actually when the killer was revealed I was a bit shocked. References to Texas things like Shiner Bock, Whataburger and a few others gave it a real Texas feel since those are common down there. Overall it was a fun, enjoyable read.
March 18, 2025
This was a nice surprise, the narrator did an excellent job with the different characters (a few too many but it wasn’t a distraction), and there’s a likable protagonist in Texas Ranger Rory Yates. Rory’s shooting skills are next to none, but a few relationship missteps from his past keeps him humble. Looking forward to #2 in this trilogy.
September 10, 2018
3.5 stars, actually.
In essence, this is a 46-page short story; entertaining and easy to read, yes, but a short story nonetheless. It's even too short (and certainly too costly) to be a fit with the author's BookShots series (books that are 150 pages or less and sell for under $5), so I have to wonder what's behind it. Perhaps the hope of a new series featuring Texas Ranger Rory Yates? A made-for-TV movie? Time will tell, I guess. Meantime, if you like cops-and-robber stories and/or need something you can polish off while waiting at the dentist's office, you might want to give this one a look.
In the middle of a hostage situation which his well-known skill with a gun takes care of, Rory is unable to respond to a call from his ex-wife Anne (they're divorced, but he's still very much in love with her). When he finally gets free and returns her call, she's clearly terrified; it seems she's been getting threatening phone calls and is sure she's in physical danger. That upsets Rory, who immediately starts the four-hour drive to his home town to see her. When his on-the-way calls aren't returned, he freaks out, breaking all speed limits to get to her fast.
But alas, it's not fast enough. He arrives at her home - the one they used to share - to find that she's been murdered. Not too surprisingly, he becomes an early-on suspect - as does the new man in her life, a trucker with whom, from everyone's perspective except Rory, she's totally in love. Of course, Rory is told in no uncertain terms to stay away from the investigation; also of course, he doesn't listen. As an aside, at this point he begins to annoy me as much as the heroines from cozy mysteries who forge ahead, never heeding anyone's advice, warnings or ultimatims (but who, after they've solved the problem, somehow manage to end up forgiven by everyone and free to go do it all over again). In this case, Rory crosses so many Texas Ranger lines that, had all this happened in real life, I have no doubt he'd have become Texas toast in their eyes.
The story follows his efforts to find a killer who, when another murdered woman turns up, appears to be on a roll. Along the way, he learns a few things he really doesn't want to know about his ex-wife (and himself). In short - and I emphasize the short - there's plenty of action and even some edge-of-seat moments until the end (which took me roughly a couple of hours to reach while watching the Cleveland Browns and Pittsburgh Steelers play to a tie in their NFL season opener).
In essence, this is a 46-page short story; entertaining and easy to read, yes, but a short story nonetheless. It's even too short (and certainly too costly) to be a fit with the author's BookShots series (books that are 150 pages or less and sell for under $5), so I have to wonder what's behind it. Perhaps the hope of a new series featuring Texas Ranger Rory Yates? A made-for-TV movie? Time will tell, I guess. Meantime, if you like cops-and-robber stories and/or need something you can polish off while waiting at the dentist's office, you might want to give this one a look.
In the middle of a hostage situation which his well-known skill with a gun takes care of, Rory is unable to respond to a call from his ex-wife Anne (they're divorced, but he's still very much in love with her). When he finally gets free and returns her call, she's clearly terrified; it seems she's been getting threatening phone calls and is sure she's in physical danger. That upsets Rory, who immediately starts the four-hour drive to his home town to see her. When his on-the-way calls aren't returned, he freaks out, breaking all speed limits to get to her fast.
But alas, it's not fast enough. He arrives at her home - the one they used to share - to find that she's been murdered. Not too surprisingly, he becomes an early-on suspect - as does the new man in her life, a trucker with whom, from everyone's perspective except Rory, she's totally in love. Of course, Rory is told in no uncertain terms to stay away from the investigation; also of course, he doesn't listen. As an aside, at this point he begins to annoy me as much as the heroines from cozy mysteries who forge ahead, never heeding anyone's advice, warnings or ultimatims (but who, after they've solved the problem, somehow manage to end up forgiven by everyone and free to go do it all over again). In this case, Rory crosses so many Texas Ranger lines that, had all this happened in real life, I have no doubt he'd have become Texas toast in their eyes.
The story follows his efforts to find a killer who, when another murdered woman turns up, appears to be on a roll. Along the way, he learns a few things he really doesn't want to know about his ex-wife (and himself). In short - and I emphasize the short - there's plenty of action and even some edge-of-seat moments until the end (which took me roughly a couple of hours to reach while watching the Cleveland Browns and Pittsburgh Steelers play to a tie in their NFL season opener).
December 12, 2024
In Patterson's Western thriller, a Texas Ranger fights for his life, his freedom, and the town he loves as he investigates his ex-wife's murder. Across the ranch lands and cities of his home state, Rory Yates's discipline and law enforcement skills have carried him far from local highway patrolman to the honorable rank of Texas Ranger. He arrives in his hometown to find a horrifying crime scene and and a scathing accusation: he is named a suspect in the murder of his ex-wife Anne, a devoted teacher whose only controversial act was ending her marriage to a Ranger. In search of the killer, Yates plunges into the inferno of the most twisted and violent minds he's ever encountered, vowing to never surrender. That code just might bring him out alive.
Patterson teams up with Andrew Bourelle, the Albuquerque-based English professor and ex-journalist who 2016 debut novel, "Heavy Metal," won the Autumn House Fiction Prize. How cool is that. Another Albuquerque boy. I was so excited to learn about him.
This “Texas Ranger” is Rory Yates, an ex-highway patrolman in his mid-thirties. He’s also a former high-school quarterback, passable country-western musician and crack shot with a .45 who, at one point, blows away a diamondback who had been sunning itself on his porch.
It’s possible to imagine Patterson and Bourelle checking off pretty much every stereotypical-Texan box they can think of, one by one. That said, the “Texas Ranger” version of the Lone Star State still isn’t terribly far divorced from reality.
A lot of the action takes place at a roadhouse just outside of town called the Pale Horse. Rory’s crusty Ranger boss says things like “busier than a one-legged man in a butt-kicking contest.” His parents live on a ranch, and everybody drives pickup trucks.
As a lawman, Rory is something of a loose cannon. “Texas Ranger” begins as he’s been reassigned to the Rio Grande Valley after a questionable shooting near Waco, where he lives in the one-stoplight town of Redbud. But by the time he gets home, Anne, his schoolteacher ex-wife, has been murdered.
But Anne had moved on. This “Texas Ranger” is Rory Yates, an ex-highway patrolman in his mid-thirties. He’s also a former high-school quarterback, passable country-western musician and crack shot with a .45 who, at one point, blows away a diamondback who had been sunning itself on his porch.
It’s possible to imagine Patterson and Bourelle checking off pretty much every stereotypical-Texan box they can think of, one by one. That said, the “Texas Ranger” version of the Lone Star State still isn’t terribly far divorced from reality.
A lot of the action takes place at a roadhouse just outside of town called the Pale Horse. Rory’s crusty Ranger boss says things like “busier than a one-legged man in an ass-kicking contest.” His parents live on a ranch, and everybody drives pickup trucks.
As a lawman, Rory is something of a loose cannon. “Texas Ranger” begins as he’s been reassigned to the Rio Grande Valley after a questionable shooting near Waco, where he lives in the one-stoplight town of Redbud. But by the time he gets home, Anne, his schoolteacher ex-wife, has been murdered.
But Anne had moved on. When it comes to suspects, Rory only has eyes for her most recent flame Cal Richards, a long-haul trucker and onetime dope dealer whom Rory has already arrested twice. The by-the-book detective assigned to the case warns him to stay out of it, but you know how that sort of thing goes.
Soon enough Rory is the detective’s No. 1 suspect. He instigates a brawl with Cal at Anne’s funeral and is so convinced that Cal is the killer — even chasing him all the way to New Jersey — that the novel’s central question becomes whether Rory’s obsession with Cal will blind him to the other possible killers until it’s too late.
As a purely enjoyable mystery, “Texas Ranger” isn’t half bad. Patterson and Bourelle’s rapid-fire chapters squeeze in plenty of dishy small-town drama on top of the murder case: Rory’s dad reveals he has cancer; one of his brothers, a new father, spends a little too much time at the Pale Horse; and two women Rory had previously dated slip back into his life almost right away. At Anne’s funeral, no less.
But starting with Part 2, Patterson and Bourelle alternate Rory’s narration with chapters that highlight Cal’s point of view. Widening the perspective adds real depth to Cal’s character (a rarity in the novel) and lends Rory’s Ahab-like efforts to prove his trucker nemesis is a murderer a touch of tragic irony. It also turns the Garth Brooks song “Callin’ Baton Rouge” into a significant plot point.
By this point, the story is picking up speed like a semi barreling down the Interstate. Patterson and Bourelle have planted enough clues that when Anne’s killer is revealed, it makes complete sense but still comes as something of a surprise. Looking back, I probably shouldn’t have been.
When it comes to suspects, Rory only has eyes for his most recent flame Cal Richards, a long-haul trucker and one time dope dealer whom Rory has already arrested twice. The by-the-book detective assigned to the case warns him to stay out of it, but you know how that sort of thing goes.
Soon enough Rory is the detective’s No. 1 suspect. He instigates a brawl with Cal at Anne’s funeral and is so convinced that Cal is the killer — even chasing him all the way to New Jersey — that the novel’s central question becomes whether Rory’s obsession with Cal will blind him to the other possible killers until it’s too late.
And for some reason, the authors decided to tell Rory’s story in the first-person present tense — “I drive,” “I shoot,” “I laugh,” etc. — which takes some getting used to. Real lawmen don’t write like that in their notebooks, do they?
But starting with Part 2, Patterson and Bourelle alternate Rory’s narration with chapters that highlight Cal’s point of view. Widening the perspective adds real depth to Cal’s character (a rarity in the novel) and lends Rory’s Ahab-like efforts to prove his trucker nemesis is a murderer a touch of tragic irony. It also turns the Garth Brooks song “Callin’ Baton Rouge” into a significant plot point.
This “Texas Ranger” is Rory Yates, an ex-highway patrolman in his mid-thirties. He’s also a former high-school quarterback, passable country-western musician and crack shot with a .45 who, at one point, blows away a diamondback who had been sunning itself on his porch.
It’s possible to imagine Patterson and Bourelle checking off pretty much every stereotypical-Texan box they can think of, one by one. That said, the “Texas Ranger” version of the Lone Star State still isn’t terribly far divorced from reality.
A lot of the action takes place at a roadhouse just outside of town called the Pale Horse. Rory’s crusty Ranger boss says things like “busier than a one-legged man in an ass-kicking contest.” His parents live on a ranch, and everybody drives pickup trucks.
As a lawman, Rory is something of a loose cannon. “Texas Ranger” begins as he’s been reassigned to the Rio Grande Valley after a questionable shooting near Waco, where he lives in the one-stoplight town of Redbud. But by the time he gets home, Anne, his schoolteacher ex-wife, has been murdered.
Their split was amicable, but not at first. Rory came to realize, to his everlasting regret, that he had been in fact married to his badge. (Stop me if you’ve heard that one before, too.)
But Anne had moved on. When it comes to suspects, Rory only has eyes for her most recent flame Cal Richards, a long-haul trucker and one time dope dealer whom Rory has already arrested twice. The by-the-book detective assigned to the case warns him to stay out of it, but you know how that sort of thing goes.
Soon enough Rory is the detective’s No. 1 suspect. He instigates a brawl with Cal at Anne’s funeral and is so convinced that Cal is the killer — even chasing him all the way to New Jersey — that the novel’s central question becomes whether Rory’s obsession with Cal will blind him to the other possible killers until it’s too late.
As a purely disposable mystery, “Texas Ranger” isn’t half bad. Patterson and Bourelle’s rapid-fire chapters squeeze in plenty of dishy small-town drama on top of the murder case: Rory’s dad reveals he has cancer; one of his brothers, a new father, spends a little too much time at the Pale Horse; and two women Rory had previously dated slip back into his life almost right away. At Anne’s funeral, no less.
And for some reason, the authors decided to tell Rory’s story in the first-person present tense — “I drive,” “I shoot,” “I laugh,” etc. — which takes some getting used to. Real lawmen don’t write like that in their notebooks, do they?
But that’s the mark of an effective mystery. The references to Shiner Bock and Whataburger in “Texas Ranger” might come off a little arbitrary, but so what? Most fans of Patterson’s easy-reading, high-tension thrillers likely won’t raise their hackles at such trivial matters.
Very entertaining book, highly recommend.
Patterson teams up with Andrew Bourelle, the Albuquerque-based English professor and ex-journalist who 2016 debut novel, "Heavy Metal," won the Autumn House Fiction Prize. How cool is that. Another Albuquerque boy. I was so excited to learn about him.
This “Texas Ranger” is Rory Yates, an ex-highway patrolman in his mid-thirties. He’s also a former high-school quarterback, passable country-western musician and crack shot with a .45 who, at one point, blows away a diamondback who had been sunning itself on his porch.
It’s possible to imagine Patterson and Bourelle checking off pretty much every stereotypical-Texan box they can think of, one by one. That said, the “Texas Ranger” version of the Lone Star State still isn’t terribly far divorced from reality.
A lot of the action takes place at a roadhouse just outside of town called the Pale Horse. Rory’s crusty Ranger boss says things like “busier than a one-legged man in a butt-kicking contest.” His parents live on a ranch, and everybody drives pickup trucks.
As a lawman, Rory is something of a loose cannon. “Texas Ranger” begins as he’s been reassigned to the Rio Grande Valley after a questionable shooting near Waco, where he lives in the one-stoplight town of Redbud. But by the time he gets home, Anne, his schoolteacher ex-wife, has been murdered.
But Anne had moved on. This “Texas Ranger” is Rory Yates, an ex-highway patrolman in his mid-thirties. He’s also a former high-school quarterback, passable country-western musician and crack shot with a .45 who, at one point, blows away a diamondback who had been sunning itself on his porch.
It’s possible to imagine Patterson and Bourelle checking off pretty much every stereotypical-Texan box they can think of, one by one. That said, the “Texas Ranger” version of the Lone Star State still isn’t terribly far divorced from reality.
A lot of the action takes place at a roadhouse just outside of town called the Pale Horse. Rory’s crusty Ranger boss says things like “busier than a one-legged man in an ass-kicking contest.” His parents live on a ranch, and everybody drives pickup trucks.
As a lawman, Rory is something of a loose cannon. “Texas Ranger” begins as he’s been reassigned to the Rio Grande Valley after a questionable shooting near Waco, where he lives in the one-stoplight town of Redbud. But by the time he gets home, Anne, his schoolteacher ex-wife, has been murdered.
But Anne had moved on. When it comes to suspects, Rory only has eyes for her most recent flame Cal Richards, a long-haul trucker and onetime dope dealer whom Rory has already arrested twice. The by-the-book detective assigned to the case warns him to stay out of it, but you know how that sort of thing goes.
Soon enough Rory is the detective’s No. 1 suspect. He instigates a brawl with Cal at Anne’s funeral and is so convinced that Cal is the killer — even chasing him all the way to New Jersey — that the novel’s central question becomes whether Rory’s obsession with Cal will blind him to the other possible killers until it’s too late.
As a purely enjoyable mystery, “Texas Ranger” isn’t half bad. Patterson and Bourelle’s rapid-fire chapters squeeze in plenty of dishy small-town drama on top of the murder case: Rory’s dad reveals he has cancer; one of his brothers, a new father, spends a little too much time at the Pale Horse; and two women Rory had previously dated slip back into his life almost right away. At Anne’s funeral, no less.
But starting with Part 2, Patterson and Bourelle alternate Rory’s narration with chapters that highlight Cal’s point of view. Widening the perspective adds real depth to Cal’s character (a rarity in the novel) and lends Rory’s Ahab-like efforts to prove his trucker nemesis is a murderer a touch of tragic irony. It also turns the Garth Brooks song “Callin’ Baton Rouge” into a significant plot point.
By this point, the story is picking up speed like a semi barreling down the Interstate. Patterson and Bourelle have planted enough clues that when Anne’s killer is revealed, it makes complete sense but still comes as something of a surprise. Looking back, I probably shouldn’t have been.
When it comes to suspects, Rory only has eyes for his most recent flame Cal Richards, a long-haul trucker and one time dope dealer whom Rory has already arrested twice. The by-the-book detective assigned to the case warns him to stay out of it, but you know how that sort of thing goes.
Soon enough Rory is the detective’s No. 1 suspect. He instigates a brawl with Cal at Anne’s funeral and is so convinced that Cal is the killer — even chasing him all the way to New Jersey — that the novel’s central question becomes whether Rory’s obsession with Cal will blind him to the other possible killers until it’s too late.
And for some reason, the authors decided to tell Rory’s story in the first-person present tense — “I drive,” “I shoot,” “I laugh,” etc. — which takes some getting used to. Real lawmen don’t write like that in their notebooks, do they?
But starting with Part 2, Patterson and Bourelle alternate Rory’s narration with chapters that highlight Cal’s point of view. Widening the perspective adds real depth to Cal’s character (a rarity in the novel) and lends Rory’s Ahab-like efforts to prove his trucker nemesis is a murderer a touch of tragic irony. It also turns the Garth Brooks song “Callin’ Baton Rouge” into a significant plot point.
This “Texas Ranger” is Rory Yates, an ex-highway patrolman in his mid-thirties. He’s also a former high-school quarterback, passable country-western musician and crack shot with a .45 who, at one point, blows away a diamondback who had been sunning itself on his porch.
It’s possible to imagine Patterson and Bourelle checking off pretty much every stereotypical-Texan box they can think of, one by one. That said, the “Texas Ranger” version of the Lone Star State still isn’t terribly far divorced from reality.
A lot of the action takes place at a roadhouse just outside of town called the Pale Horse. Rory’s crusty Ranger boss says things like “busier than a one-legged man in an ass-kicking contest.” His parents live on a ranch, and everybody drives pickup trucks.
As a lawman, Rory is something of a loose cannon. “Texas Ranger” begins as he’s been reassigned to the Rio Grande Valley after a questionable shooting near Waco, where he lives in the one-stoplight town of Redbud. But by the time he gets home, Anne, his schoolteacher ex-wife, has been murdered.
Their split was amicable, but not at first. Rory came to realize, to his everlasting regret, that he had been in fact married to his badge. (Stop me if you’ve heard that one before, too.)
But Anne had moved on. When it comes to suspects, Rory only has eyes for her most recent flame Cal Richards, a long-haul trucker and one time dope dealer whom Rory has already arrested twice. The by-the-book detective assigned to the case warns him to stay out of it, but you know how that sort of thing goes.
Soon enough Rory is the detective’s No. 1 suspect. He instigates a brawl with Cal at Anne’s funeral and is so convinced that Cal is the killer — even chasing him all the way to New Jersey — that the novel’s central question becomes whether Rory’s obsession with Cal will blind him to the other possible killers until it’s too late.
As a purely disposable mystery, “Texas Ranger” isn’t half bad. Patterson and Bourelle’s rapid-fire chapters squeeze in plenty of dishy small-town drama on top of the murder case: Rory’s dad reveals he has cancer; one of his brothers, a new father, spends a little too much time at the Pale Horse; and two women Rory had previously dated slip back into his life almost right away. At Anne’s funeral, no less.
And for some reason, the authors decided to tell Rory’s story in the first-person present tense — “I drive,” “I shoot,” “I laugh,” etc. — which takes some getting used to. Real lawmen don’t write like that in their notebooks, do they?
But that’s the mark of an effective mystery. The references to Shiner Bock and Whataburger in “Texas Ranger” might come off a little arbitrary, but so what? Most fans of Patterson’s easy-reading, high-tension thrillers likely won’t raise their hackles at such trivial matters.
Very entertaining book, highly recommend.
November 20, 2018
This is a best a below average Jame Patterson novel. The story was interesting with a surprising ending. Unfortunately the principal character I found one of the most irritating ever, possibly as throughout the story he was almost deified but, to me, he was an exceeding poor example of a dedicated law enforcement professional. Admittedly he had a truly catastrophic personal loss which they used as justification for his disgustingly unprofessional actions nonetheless he personified the improper use of power and if allowed would have been judge and jury to quell is personal emotions.
Beyond serious problems with the primary character the other characters were entirely cardboard and just there to support the primary and serve no other purpose. Unfortunately the took a potentially interesting story line and left it hanging with no real support.
Even for the staunch Patterson fan I would have hard time recommending this book.
Beyond serious problems with the primary character the other characters were entirely cardboard and just there to support the primary and serve no other purpose. Unfortunately the took a potentially interesting story line and left it hanging with no real support.
Even for the staunch Patterson fan I would have hard time recommending this book.
December 17, 2018
I actually found this collaboration pretty entertaining. The characters were well written and the plot moved at a good pace. I did not guess who the killer was correctly and when the reveal happens I was a bit shocked to be honest.
My quick and simple overall: quick entertaining read with a good plot and cast.
My quick and simple overall: quick entertaining read with a good plot and cast.
March 27, 2020
This might be the beginning of another really good Patterson series. Not quite, but almost 4 stars. Rory has the potential to grow. This story was fun if a little simple. Maybe I figured it out too soon. But the potential is there. Simple, easy fun.
September 18, 2018
Texas Ranger
James Patterson, Andrew Bourelle
Holy cow people!! TEXAS RANGER blew my mind, totally screwed with my head, and then blew my mind once again! It was that good! All while I was reading, I totally had it figured out only to be wrong over and over again! I love when an author keeps me guessing. I know many people don't read James Patterson anymore but I truly think they are missing out! I know they think he turns out too many books in a year but he always keeps me highly entertained and TEXAS RANGER was no exception!
TEXAS RANGER goes back and forth between the past and the present. It's the story of Rory Yates who is a Texas Ranger. He receives a phone call from his ex wife, Anne, telling him she is getting very nasty phones calls, threatening harm, and is freaked out by them. Rory races to her house, a house they used to share but he is hours away. He tries to keep her on the phone until he gets there, but when he does, he is too late! Anne is dead and he is a suspect! Hold on tight people, the ride is a bumpy and crazy one!
Not long after this all goes down, his old friend, Patty, is also killed! Anne and Patty are dead and the detective investigating their murders thinks Rory did it. Rory thinks it was Anne's ex, Cal, whom Rory has never liked. The whole town thinks Cal is an all right guy except for Rory. Rory wants answers and wants them now. Even though the detective tells him to stay away, he can't. The love of his life was killed and he is determined to prove it was Cal who did it. Does a story get any better than this?
The twists and turns in TEXAS RANGER are going to keep you up late into the night trying to figure it out. One minute you believe you know who did it and the next you are sitting there shaking your head, wondering what the heck just happened. I had my suspicions, I had it all figured out, or so I thought, and BAM.......wrong again! Once you start reading, trust me, you aren't going to be able to stop! When everything is finally revealed, well, you won't believe it! I really hope James Patterson writes with Andrew Bourelle again. I would love to meet up with all the characters of Redbud, Texas once again!
January 11, 2020
Rory Yates...a Texas Ranger always ready to catch the law breaker.
It's a different game when there are murders in his home town. First his ex-wife Anne, then his old high school sweetheart.
There's a saying "The Texas Ranger always gets his man" It was not a man this time.
I found this book to be a little simplistic.
It's a different game when there are murders in his home town. First his ex-wife Anne, then his old high school sweetheart.
There's a saying "The Texas Ranger always gets his man" It was not a man this time.
I found this book to be a little simplistic.
December 28, 2023
Texas Ranger is about Rory Yates and his races to clear his name. When Rory Yates received a strange phone call from his ex-wife, he rushed home to find Anne dead. Rory Yates became the prime suspect, so Rory decided to risk everything to find the killer before it is too late. The readers of Texas Ranger will follow Rory Yates and his quest for answers.
I enjoyed reading "Texas Ranger". I love James Patterson and Andrew Bourelle portrayal of the characters and the way they interact with each other. "Texas Ranger" is well written and research by James Patterson and Andrew Bourelle. The way James Patterson and Andrew Bourelle describe their settings allow me to engage with the plot.
The readers of "Texas Ranger" will learn about jealousy and undiagnosed mental illness that can destroy the person and everyone around them. Also, the readers of "Texas Ranger" will start to understand what is to be a Texas Ranger.
I recommend this book.
I enjoyed reading "Texas Ranger". I love James Patterson and Andrew Bourelle portrayal of the characters and the way they interact with each other. "Texas Ranger" is well written and research by James Patterson and Andrew Bourelle. The way James Patterson and Andrew Bourelle describe their settings allow me to engage with the plot.
The readers of "Texas Ranger" will learn about jealousy and undiagnosed mental illness that can destroy the person and everyone around them. Also, the readers of "Texas Ranger" will start to understand what is to be a Texas Ranger.
I recommend this book.
October 1, 2018
Although there is a twist at the end, everything else is predictably boring. Grown adults being portrayed like juveniles made me feel like I was reading a novel about high school students. One would think the character of a Texas Ranger would include honor, responsibility and the pursuit of justice through the legal system. Rory is none of those. He is off the chart rogue and never gets punished or fired for his behavior. Two stars because I never found myself anxiously waiting to read more.
November 5, 2018
I usually enjoy James Patterson books. But I found this one to be very juvenile. It shows another hot-headed cop/Texas Ranger that can't control his emotions and tries to bully someone in to confessing to the crime regardless of any facts or evidence. I do not recommend this story.
February 23, 2021
I’ve read a lot of James Patterson, both independently written and collaborations, and while they aren’t typically earth shattering, I normally find them enjoyable. This was not, and the only reason I finished it was because it was an audio book, and it was simpler to finish it while driving than bother looking for something else.
The characters were unlikable. The stereotypical, hot headed cowboy trope was just irritating. The terribly written ‘romance’ scenes were cringe inducing. And the final twist (Spoiler) “ex girlfriend killed all these people because she was so desperately in love with me and I didn’t love her back” could only have been written by a cis white man. Lazy and uninspired.
The characters were unlikable. The stereotypical, hot headed cowboy trope was just irritating. The terribly written ‘romance’ scenes were cringe inducing. And the final twist (Spoiler) “ex girlfriend killed all these people because she was so desperately in love with me and I didn’t love her back” could only have been written by a cis white man. Lazy and uninspired.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 8, 2019
Didn’t hate it but didn’t love it. A Texas Ranger tries to find the killer of his ex-wife. 90% of the book he’s trying to prove her boyfriend is guilty. It got a little bit old. I must admit that I had someone else pegged as the killer and it was somewhat of a surprise to me who it actually turned out to be.
July 19, 2022
I figured out the killer one chapter before the author revealed it. I really liked this book. It is very fast paced and easy to read. (I'm used to reading fantasy magical worlds.) I picked up this book at the library to "try new things" and I'm glad I did. I really enjoyed the story and I'm going back for the second book.
June 11, 2018
I would have liked to give it a 3.5. This book was a good one but to me it was a bit boring. I worked it out in the first 3 chapters then had to wait until it played itself out. It was slow to the point of me sighing as I turned the pages. Needed more action.
May 31, 2019
Not really very good in any way.
October 16, 2018
A great holiday read. Yes the story line, after the first few chapters , is predictable. But sometimes it is good to just sit down and unwind by reading a nice solid book, that is mentally undemanding.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 23, 2024
Really enjoyed this book. The ending was a surprise. I have already checked out the next book in the series.
I loved the story line. He’s divorced but they are still friends. Murder makes him rethink everything. He’s heartbroken. You can feel the heartbreak. He’s off to find the killer.
I loved the story line. He’s divorced but they are still friends. Murder makes him rethink everything. He’s heartbroken. You can feel the heartbreak. He’s off to find the killer.
February 15, 2025
Very predictable and full of the usual cliches expected from the majority of Patterson’s collaborations these days! However, if you’re looking for an easy fast read that won’t test the brain cells so you can just kill a few hours, then this will do the job.
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