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The games he plays are deadly...

As chief of police for Harrison University, Avery Madison expects to spend her days buried in administrative paperwork--until a murdered woman is discovered on campus. She asks Texas Ranger Weston Donovan for help. The former football star turned lawman is heartbreakingly handsome, but Avery has put romance on the back burner. Discovering her fiancé's infidelity left her questioning the type of man she chooses.

Weston believes Avery is in danger. The killer left a taunting note addressed specifically to her at the scene, along with the pawn from a chessboard. What Weston can't figure out is why Avery's been targeted. He's determined to protect the courageous woman while keeping their relationship strictly professional. Losing his wife to cancer five years ago nearly destroyed him, and Weston won't risk falling in love again.

When a second woman is murdered and Avery's family is threatened, Weston's worst fears become a reality. The man they're hunting is a monster known only as The Chessmaster. Every move the killer makes is designed to bring Avery deeper into a twisted competition of life and death...one she's not meant to survive.

Each book in the Texas Ranger Heroes series can be read as a standalone, and guarantees a fast-paced mystery combined with sweet romance.

360 pages, Kindle Edition

Published February 16, 2020

943 people are currently reading
167 people want to read

About the author

Lynn Shannon

38 books371 followers
Lynn Shannon is a Publishers Weekly bestselling author of inspirational romantic suspense.

After moving from Texas to Greece, Lynn turned her passion for reading into a love of writing. She lives with her husband, two children, an extremely spoiled dog, and a pair of chirpy lovebirds. Experiencing life in a new country has introduced her to delicious foods—like Yemista and Kourabiedes—which now share a place on her favorites list alongside pecans and Blue Bell ice cream. She also never passes up coffee, chocolate, or the chance to watch cute animal videos.

You can sign up for her newsletter on her website at: www.lynnshannon.com

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5 stars
1,326 (67%)
4 stars
469 (24%)
3 stars
133 (6%)
2 stars
17 (<1%)
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8 (<1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 106 reviews
Profile Image for Kristen.
1,177 reviews
July 11, 2023
This book, like others in the series, starts strong and kept me turning pages. The suspense is impelling, the characters are engaging,and the romance is heartfelt. Each book can be read as a stand-alone, but I’m enjoying watching the characters and relationships grow as I read them in order. I’m loving this series!
Profile Image for Robin.
Author 3 books29 followers
May 1, 2021
A Great Suspenseful Romance

I have been enjoying this series so much! I started reading this one yesterday and finished it today. I could hardly put it down. I love how the characters live their faith, are "real" people with doubts, fears, and flaws who have to work hard to overcome obstacles.

Ranger Courage was on par with the previous books in the series. The author kept me guessing. I was fairly certain who the culprit was. Then something would happen and I'd think, "Well, maybe not?" Another thing I appreciate is how respectful the hero and heroine are toward each other. Their attraction is shown, but it's not solely based on physical attributes. No insta-love here! Yea! And it's another clean read featuring characters who pray often...sometimes alone, sometimes with friends or family, and sometimes together.

If you enjoy crime-show-type suspense, inspirational romance, and action, I'd recommend this whole series to you.
Profile Image for Marie.
5,140 reviews52 followers
May 22, 2021
Flying bullets, tackling suspects and hunting a killer!

Weston and Avery are thrown together when they least expect it, the killer wants to torture Avery emotionally before finally targeting her directly, she is used to being strong but the knowledge that others are being killed to draw her in to a game almost cripples her.
Weston is still grieving the death of his wife or is he using her death as a shield to keep everyone else at a distance? Everyone that is except Avery, something about her calls to his protective instincts, his heart and his soul. He is told 'Love is a decision, just like faith' but seeing him fight his fears and struggle with his demons makes you realise just how brave he really is when he finally takes that leap and allows himself to fall.
I really enjoy this series, but this book is the best so far, although I am looking forward to Emilia's book next! I read this on Kindle Unlimited.
6,527 reviews27 followers
February 18, 2020
I loved the two previsions books in this series and this one is no exception. It flows well as a story line that kept me on my toes wondering what would happen next

When Avery Madison along with her sister and BIL move back to town after their grandmother's husband dies she is glad to get the job as Chief of the University Police force at Harrison University. The only problem is someone is killing the students leaving a chess piece and a message for Avery at the kill site. She asks for help from the Rangers and Texas Ranger Weston Donovan is the one sent to help her. The attraction between these two is off the charts but with a twisted individual willing to hurt anyone in an attempt to get Avery's attention do they have any chance at a future together. Will they solve the murders and will they have a future together You will have to read to see
Profile Image for Christina Standridge.
1,027 reviews3 followers
February 16, 2020
Avery Madison is the new chief of police at Harrison University. She finds the body of a young woman hanging in a classroom with a chess piece and a note addressed to her. She enlists the help of the Texas Rangers and Weston takes the case. As they start to investigate another body is found. They struggle to figure out who is behind the murders and the notes left for Avery. The murderer leaves clues and tells her they are playing chess. Avery and Weston's journey begins. Will they find out who is behind the crimes before the perp gets to Avery? Must read to find out. A lot of suspense and keeps you on the edge of your seat.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Sonya Wasden.
1,074 reviews11 followers
June 6, 2023
This author is a master at weaving a mesmerizing romantic suspense that keeps you on the edge of your seats hoping that all will turn out well. In the midst of true evil, the lead characters are able to demonstrate their Christian faith in a God that knows where we are and what we need.

Avery is fighting to find the murderer before he kills again and she is being taunted by his "chess moves". The ranger that is called on to help her is protective and determined to solve the case to keep Avery safe.

There is a happy ending to this story and the writing is clean and without foul language but suspense is palpable and you can't put the book down because you know that good has to overcome evil, at least in these stories.
Profile Image for Jennifer Newell.
460 reviews2 followers
October 18, 2023
courage to start again

Avery after a very difficult breakup with her fiancé, returns to her home town to be continue her career in law enforcement at the college. When a murder occurs at the school she reaches out to the Texas Rangers. Luke was not available because his wife went into labor, told her to reach out to a fellow Ranger for help. Weston after years of playing football left to care for his wife who subsequently died of cancer, was happy to help since his job had been his life for the last 5 yrs.
Neither can deny their attraction but they are focused on solving a murder.
Will they manage to unravel who is the Chessmaster? Will Avery be able to protect the college? Will they have the courage to start again?
Very good mystery.
Profile Image for Victoria.
4,668 reviews
February 17, 2020
This is my first book in the series and I have to say I loved it, it had me hooked and second guessing my predictions on what would have next. I enjoyed it so much I was sad when it ended. I thought the characters were developed, realistic, relatable and I loved all the connection they had. The story flowed well and the pace was just right. I loved the ease to the reading of this story and the ease at which faith was woven into the characters lives and their jobs. This is a new author for me and one I be looking into reading more of.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Elizabeth McDaniel.
2,383 reviews
February 19, 2020
Avery was after a murderer on her campus. She didn’t even want to think about relationships after the way her ex almost ruined her life and her career. She needed help and asked it from a ranger. Wes was a ranger. His wife had died from cancer and he had no intention of being in another relationship. From the first time they met they fought their attraction. But then the case ended up with her being the target and he realized he would do anything to protect her. They have an interesting and exciting journey before their HEA.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
473 reviews2 followers
February 19, 2020
Chief Avery Madison asks for help from the Texas Rangers when a serial killer decides to hunt her as the final act of revenge against her father. The suspense and action in this book will keep you breathless and turning pages. The number of suspects and victims begin to grow, then Avery's sister is kidnapped. She must go in to exchange herself to save her sister, and Ranger Weston Donovan is determined to keep her safe. The love they begin to have for each other is beautiful and touching, and their faith in God is inspiring.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Chanel.
1,833 reviews
June 11, 2020
3.75 There is psycho serial killer playing a game of Chess with law enforcement. He has his sights on Avery Madison, the university’s Chief of Police. The “Chess-master”, aka, the killer, is out for revenge but Avery has no idea why. Avery joins forces with the Texas Rangers to catch a madman. She also catches the eye of Ranger Weston Donovan. While trying to solve the case, Avery and Weston fall in love. Not sure how realistic the romance side was, but the author kept me guessing and produced a suspenseful story with a believable police investigation. I have to admit, I like my books to be at least PG-13, and this story only has a few kisses.
496 reviews10 followers
June 12, 2020
Twists and turns that will keep you guessing

• The beginning of this book was perfectly set. A rainy night. A radio call for a campus police escort. A building with unsettling noises. The scene was full of eerie suspense that drew me into the book like a moth to a flame.

• This was a Christian romantic suspense novel. Religion was just a natural part of the characters' lives. No preaching.

• This was a great romantic suspense with lots of twists and turns. The author did a great job in hiding who the murderer was. I was kept guessing until the very end. I highly recommend this book.
Profile Image for Barbara.
19.2k reviews8 followers
February 17, 2020
Book three in the Texas Ranger Heroes series a series that just gets better with each new book. A well written murder mystery with a great storyline the story flowed smoothly across the pages. This is chief of police for Harrison University, Avery Madison and Texas Ranger Weston Donovan's story there is suspense, drama, danger, kidnapping, murder, a very evil villain,and romance. I hope there is going to be more in this series. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Jan L.
1,002 reviews21 followers
February 19, 2020
Campus security

This series is so enjoyable for me. The characters are from Lynn Shannon's mind but come alive to me. I get involved from the beginning, then feel the excitement, fears, tension, family relationships and the touching emotions of falling in love. I love that the characters aren't lost in insecurities but consider their emotions and take a chance, knowing failure is possible. These Texas Rangers take their job seriously and proudly live up to the high standards set by law enforcement officers everywhere.
Profile Image for Stella Potts.
516 reviews10 followers
August 3, 2021
Book #3 in this series is just as exciting as the first two books. It has some tense situations and twists that you don’t see coming. I have just gotten acquainted with Ms Shannon’s writing through this series and I am sold on them. She writes directly with the book’s plot and doesn’t get so wordy that you get bored. Each book can be read as a standalone but the characters from previous books are present in each one so it does help to have the background on the characters. I recommend this whole series without hesitation.
2,229 reviews12 followers
July 4, 2024
Ranger Courage

Avery and Weston have a wonderful story. Avery is the chief of police for the local university. When a murder is committed on campus it looks as though she might be targeted. She asks the Texas Rangers to step in and help with the investigation. Texas Ranger Weston Donovan is assigned to the case which becomes that of stopping a serial killer targeting women who are university personnel or students. Will they be able to discover who the culprit is and stop him before anyone else has to die?
4,927 reviews31 followers
February 17, 2020
Avery is the chief of police at Harrison University when she finds a body of a woman in one of the class rooms. She calls in Texas Ranger Weston to help her investigate as more bodies stack up. This is a story about their romance as they try and find out who is behind the murders before they can get to Avery. Enjoyed reading how their relationship developed as they worked together to solve the murders.
Profile Image for Heather W.
4,065 reviews35 followers
February 20, 2020
Ranger Courage is the third book in the Texas Ranger Heroes series and is a compelling romantic suspense story.

I loved this romantic suspense thriller and found it to be well-written and intriguing. Why is Avery being targeted? Can Weston keep her safe? This story has murder, kidnapping, danger, suspense, and a chance for romance.

I would love to read more books in this series.
I read and reviewed this book with no obligation.
2,280 reviews26 followers
January 22, 2021
This one kept me guessing. It was a very intense case to solve but nothing graphic. Loved the Christian focus by the main characters. Funny how love can develop no matter the circumstances. I listened to this book on audible and boy did I feel like I was investigating the case with Avery and Weston. What a dynamic duo. I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.
185 reviews
January 25, 2021
Ranger Courage is an excellent mystery with some clean romance. The author had me guessing the entire book, which is fantastic! The twists and turns are unexpected and interwoven with a chance of sweet romance for the main characters. With it’s well written storyline and interesting characters that are portrayed nicely by the narrator...this book is a must listen/read!
I requested a review copy of the audiobook and have chosen to give my honest opinion.
Profile Image for Allyson Anthony.
1,150 reviews47 followers
March 27, 2023
This is a non stop, action packed story. Avery and Weston team up to stop a killer who draws Avery into a deadly game involving other people.
This story has plenty of twists and turns, and it also includes the villain's point of view. Avery's ex not only cheated on her but made a false accusation against her to ruin her career. Weston's wife passed away so he's struggling with having a relationship with Avery.
Fantastic read.
340 reviews1 follower
March 12, 2024
Wow, didn't see this on coming!

Avery followed in her dad's footsteps included law enforcement which lead her straight into a vengance of dark and calculated proportion.
Weston wore the Texas star proudly and devoted himself to the job. Romance wasn't on either ones radar.
Yet one case changed both of them forever.
Shannon again so cleverly hid the mastermind and threw you off guard.
Profile Image for Leslie.
116 reviews5 followers
November 16, 2025
The book was well-written and exciting, with lots of action. However, I kept thinking I'd read it before. I finally realized that was because each event was something I'd encountered many times in similar books. Reluctance to form another relationship after being hurt? Check. The heroine trades places with a kidnapped victim? Check. The hero arrives to save the day in the nick of time? Check. I'd love to read something more original.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Carol.
837 reviews1 follower
August 11, 2020
Ranger Courage

Avery and Weston meet when she asks the Ranger for help on a murder case. As one murder turns into two and directly involving Avery they are desperate to find the criminal before he kills again.
A clean romance that does Not lack for intrigue and suspense - a must read series!
1,832 reviews12 followers
January 21, 2021
I received an audio copy of this story from the author. This is a fabulous mystery that I so much enjoyed. I was on the edge of my seat all the way through. I was completely surprised at who the murderer was. This is the second book I have read from Ms. Shannon. I very much enjoyed listening to Ms. Piller's voice as she read the book. This is my voluntary opinion.
Profile Image for Natalya.
530 reviews19 followers
February 13, 2021
Suspenseful and enthralling from page one, romantic and with a dash of humor - I absolutely loved this story! I didn’t want to stop listening! This story keeps you on the edge of your seat.
“Love is like faith. It’s a choice.”
I received a complimentary copy of the audio book. I was not required to write a favorable review. All opinions in this review are my own.
Profile Image for Karen.
735 reviews7 followers
March 4, 2021
This book reminded me of criminal minds. It kind of freaked me out a bit when listening at night. I really enjoyed it. It was my first book by Lynn Shannon. This is the third in this series. I haven’t read the other two but this was a stand alone. There was romance and faith to offset the murder suspense. I liked both Avery and Weston the main characters.
Profile Image for Sherry Sias.
657 reviews1 follower
May 17, 2021
Action packed read

Weston is a Texas Ranger and Avery is chief of police at a university. When a murder poccurs, she asks for help. Weston lost his wife and Avery was burned by her ex. As they search for the identity of the killer, feelings emerge.
This book is action packed and captures you from the start. Must read.
1,042 reviews11 followers
August 20, 2023
Serial psycho

Serial killers are usually psychos and very wily. Such was the case with the "Chessmaster", whose demented mind was laser focused on Avery, chief of police for the local University. Weston Donovan, former linebacker now Texas Ranger is assigned to protect her as they work together to find the killer and rescue his latest victims. Action packed thriller!
Profile Image for Susan Clair Holt.
1,362 reviews1 follower
November 29, 2023
Ranger Courage

Avery Madison. Is COP on the university campus and has discovered a murder. She calls in Texas Ranger Weston Donavan to assist. Another murder happen and University Police, Texas Rangers, Sheriff's Department and a retired FBI agent come together and solve the case. Avery and Weston fall in love and become engaged.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 106 reviews

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