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Badge of Honor: Texas Heroes #1
Justice for Mackenzie
A member of the famed Texas Rangers, Daxton Chambers has dealt with more than his share of depravity. But the Lone Star Reaper takes evil to a whole new level, kidnapping and burying women alive. It's Dax's job to help keep San Antonio safe, but even with help from friends in various law enforcement agencies, the killer remains two steps ahead. It's hardly the ideal time for a relationship, but Mackenzie Morgan is too luscious to resist. Dax wants her--which makes her an instant target for his newfound enemy.
When the Reaper gets personal, it will take every ounce of Daxton's considerable skill and training to keep Mack alive.
**Justice for Mackenzie is the 1st book in the Badge of Honor: Texas Heroes Series. Each book is a stand-alone, with no cliffhanger endings.
When the Reaper gets personal, it will take every ounce of Daxton's considerable skill and training to keep Mack alive.
**Justice for Mackenzie is the 1st book in the Badge of Honor: Texas Heroes Series. Each book is a stand-alone, with no cliffhanger endings.
264 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 14, 2015
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About the author
Susan Stoker
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New York Times, USA Today, and Wall Street Journal Bestselling Author, Susan Stoker has a heart as big as the state of Tennessee where she lives, but this all American girl has also spent the last fourteen years living in Missouri, California, Colorado, Indiana, and Tennessee. She's married to a retired Army man who now gets to follow her around the country.
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http://www.stokeraces.com/contact-1.html
New York Times, USA Today, and Wall Street Journal Bestselling Author, Susan Stoker has a heart as big as the state of Tennessee where she lives, but this all American girl has also spent the last fourteen years living in Missouri, California, Colorado, Indiana, and Tennessee. She's married to a retired Army man who now gets to follow her around the country.
Follow SUSAN:
Facebook: www.facebook.com/authorsstoker
www.facebook.com/authorsusanstoker
Instagram: www.instagram.com/authorsusanstoker
Twitter: www.twitter.com/susan_stoker
Bookbub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/susan...
Amazon: http://amzn.to/238Jw8c
For all upcoming books click here: http://www.stokeraces.com/coming-soon...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 681 reviews
July 22, 2018
I’ve only ever read one other book by this author and didn’t really like the H at all so I hadn’t given another book by her a chance until now. I not only loved the storyline and the suspense but I absolutely adored both the H and h. That is a rare thing for me, to like them both equally.
Mackenzie is very quirky and sweet. She’s never really had good relationships that lasted too long. Her exes always tired of her quirky ways. Then she meets Dax the Texas Ranger.
Dax is 46 years old and has all but given up on finding the one woman for him even though it’s what he’s always wanted. He thought he found that once but being with Mackenzie makes him realize just how wrong for him his ex had been.
These two were fantastic together along with a great group of secondary characters in the form of Dax’s friends that are also in law enforcement. I’m so glad I gave this a try and will definitely be reading more by this author.
Mackenzie is very quirky and sweet. She’s never really had good relationships that lasted too long. Her exes always tired of her quirky ways. Then she meets Dax the Texas Ranger.
Dax is 46 years old and has all but given up on finding the one woman for him even though it’s what he’s always wanted. He thought he found that once but being with Mackenzie makes him realize just how wrong for him his ex had been.
These two were fantastic together along with a great group of secondary characters in the form of Dax’s friends that are also in law enforcement. I’m so glad I gave this a try and will definitely be reading more by this author.
July 2, 2019
Dax and Mackenzie (Mack) meet at a charity event that Mack helps organize. They're both intrigued by each other, but Mack has to get back to work and Dax never got her name. A few weeks later, a car speeds by him and his friend, TJ, a cop, while they're on their way to dinner. You have to love fate. It's Mack. As TJ is telling him about the driver, Dax realizes it has to be the same woman he hasn't been able to stop thinking about. He talks TJ into giving him her number. Dax calls Mack later and thus begins one of the best relationships ever. Their conversations are hilarious. I love these two together. Mack is a rambler and Dax finds it adorable. So much so that he'll intentionally say something to get her going. How cute is that? They're perfect for each other and the chemistry will light your Kindle on fire. (Get it? Kindle Fire. I crack myself up. LOL)
Unfortunately, Dax is working a case with a sadistic killer and Mack is now in his sights. Will he catch Mack? Will Dax save her in time? I have to say this, there is what I refer to as THE scene in this book. Bawled my eyes out. I went from devastated tears to happy tears. That's all I'm saying. Trust me, you want to read this book. Susan is a truly gifted author and has a permanent place on my list of favorite authors. Dax is wonderful and easily fits BBF material. Mack is so adorkable that you can't help but love her and want to be her friend. Together they make one of my favorite couples, ever.
Unfortunately, Dax is working a case with a sadistic killer and Mack is now in his sights. Will he catch Mack? Will Dax save her in time? I have to say this, there is what I refer to as THE scene in this book. Bawled my eyes out. I went from devastated tears to happy tears. That's all I'm saying. Trust me, you want to read this book. Susan is a truly gifted author and has a permanent place on my list of favorite authors. Dax is wonderful and easily fits BBF material. Mack is so adorkable that you can't help but love her and want to be her friend. Together they make one of my favorite couples, ever.
March 2, 2017
4.5
I think I've found a new favourite author. It's been a while since that happened.
Daxton's a Texas Ranger, Mackenzie's a 37 year-old clumsy gal who's always believed she's a tad too short and chunky to be attractive. She also has a tendency to blabber on (that he found cute and endearing). Mackenzie is a genuine every girl and I warmed to her very easily.
The conflict in this doesn't come from their relationship, for that's all very straightforward with neither character feeling the need to play games or act coy. Instead the conflict comes as blowback from his job, as a serial killer starts making personal threats against Daxton that put Mackenzie in peril.
After all of the sweetness and easy reading up until that point, I was completely unprepared for the peril Mackenzie faced. My heart was racing and the tension was exceptionally good, exhilarating actually. I can't remember the last time a book got me that het up.
But all of that tension was balanced with humour and feels. Daxton is an alpha (of course) with quite the filthiest mouth during the smutty scenes. It got me squirming away in my seat very nicely.
The only reason this isn't a five is the pathetic epilogue. I was a bit pissed when the epilogue at 85% turned out to be a couple of pages trailer for the next book in the series followed by an intro chapter. I love to see a story rounded off properly and I was hoping for more than that. I so wanted to see how Mackenzie's overprotective brothers got on with alpha hardass Daxton, but nope.
Complete story but part of a series with recurring characters. Highly recommended. I think this one is a freebie.
I think I've found a new favourite author. It's been a while since that happened.
Daxton's a Texas Ranger, Mackenzie's a 37 year-old clumsy gal who's always believed she's a tad too short and chunky to be attractive. She also has a tendency to blabber on (that he found cute and endearing). Mackenzie is a genuine every girl and I warmed to her very easily.
The conflict in this doesn't come from their relationship, for that's all very straightforward with neither character feeling the need to play games or act coy. Instead the conflict comes as blowback from his job, as a serial killer starts making personal threats against Daxton that put Mackenzie in peril.
After all of the sweetness and easy reading up until that point, I was completely unprepared for the peril Mackenzie faced. My heart was racing and the tension was exceptionally good, exhilarating actually. I can't remember the last time a book got me that het up.
But all of that tension was balanced with humour and feels. Daxton is an alpha (of course) with quite the filthiest mouth during the smutty scenes. It got me squirming away in my seat very nicely.
The only reason this isn't a five is the pathetic epilogue. I was a bit pissed when the epilogue at 85% turned out to be a couple of pages trailer for the next book in the series followed by an intro chapter. I love to see a story rounded off properly and I was hoping for more than that. I so wanted to see how Mackenzie's overprotective brothers got on with alpha hardass Daxton, but nope.
Complete story but part of a series with recurring characters. Highly recommended. I think this one is a freebie.
July 13, 2015
Justice for Mackenzie is a beautifully breathtaking and intensely thrilling love story that will seep into your very soul while taking your heart on an exciting roller coaster ride full of interesting twists and turns. I was taken completely by surprise with this brilliant storyline, and I fell in love with its gentle determination and captivating passion. There is truly no middle ground in life, and this story mirrored it very well. Love demands that we decide if we will risk our heart even for a short time or face an existence where we walk around as a living zombie. What will your choice be?
Daxton Chambers is content with the life he has lived. He has a job he enjoys and is proud of, and he counts himself lucky to have a wonderful circle of friends that have come to mean the world to him. Just when he has resigned himself to living a quiet yet lonely life, he comes face to face with a woman who turns his world upside down. He can’t believe that he has finally met a woman who is genuine and warm while lighting a fire in him he never knew could burn. Mackenzie has had just as much luck as Daxton in finding someone to share her life with, so when she comes face to face with him, she thinks she is surely dreaming. When her dreams continue in her waking life, she grabs hold of him and pours her entire heart into loving and cherishing him. Just when things are going good, someone steps out of the shadows and threatens to end Daxton’s hard fought happiness. Can Daxton win this deadly game of cat and mouse before it’s too late, or will his heart finally be ripped from his chest proving to him that he isn’t destined to a life of limitless joy and complete fulfillment?
Daxton most definitely stole my heart in his tender yet single-minded pursuit of Makenzie. He didn’t let anything he found out about her change his mind about loving and claiming her as his. She was exactly what he had searched for his entire life, and he wasn’t letting anything get in the way of his mission to shower her with his love and devotion. Mackenzie is a beautiful woman who was made to feel that she was too hard to love, way too picky, and should just compromise to make others happy. Knowing that her image of herself was terribly skewed, Daxton worked to show her how perfect she was for him and how she was none of those things. His love transformed her heart, filled her with hope, and made her grateful for the gifts that life brings our way. They are such a stunning couple whose magnificent love forever changed them and everyone around them.
This is the second book I have read by Susan Stoker, and I am completely blown away by her amazing literary talent and incredible heart! This story grabbed a hold of my heart and never let go. I was lost to her fantastic world full of mesmerizing characters who fought to make a home in my heart. It’s hard to find a compelling storyline that speaks to my intelligence while holding my heart in its welcoming yet unpredictable hands. Whatever you do, don’t miss out on this unbelievably real-life, romantic thriller! It is sure to meet and obliterate all of your expectations!
Daxton Chambers is content with the life he has lived. He has a job he enjoys and is proud of, and he counts himself lucky to have a wonderful circle of friends that have come to mean the world to him. Just when he has resigned himself to living a quiet yet lonely life, he comes face to face with a woman who turns his world upside down. He can’t believe that he has finally met a woman who is genuine and warm while lighting a fire in him he never knew could burn. Mackenzie has had just as much luck as Daxton in finding someone to share her life with, so when she comes face to face with him, she thinks she is surely dreaming. When her dreams continue in her waking life, she grabs hold of him and pours her entire heart into loving and cherishing him. Just when things are going good, someone steps out of the shadows and threatens to end Daxton’s hard fought happiness. Can Daxton win this deadly game of cat and mouse before it’s too late, or will his heart finally be ripped from his chest proving to him that he isn’t destined to a life of limitless joy and complete fulfillment?
Daxton most definitely stole my heart in his tender yet single-minded pursuit of Makenzie. He didn’t let anything he found out about her change his mind about loving and claiming her as his. She was exactly what he had searched for his entire life, and he wasn’t letting anything get in the way of his mission to shower her with his love and devotion. Mackenzie is a beautiful woman who was made to feel that she was too hard to love, way too picky, and should just compromise to make others happy. Knowing that her image of herself was terribly skewed, Daxton worked to show her how perfect she was for him and how she was none of those things. His love transformed her heart, filled her with hope, and made her grateful for the gifts that life brings our way. They are such a stunning couple whose magnificent love forever changed them and everyone around them.
This is the second book I have read by Susan Stoker, and I am completely blown away by her amazing literary talent and incredible heart! This story grabbed a hold of my heart and never let go. I was lost to her fantastic world full of mesmerizing characters who fought to make a home in my heart. It’s hard to find a compelling storyline that speaks to my intelligence while holding my heart in its welcoming yet unpredictable hands. Whatever you do, don’t miss out on this unbelievably real-life, romantic thriller! It is sure to meet and obliterate all of your expectations!
July 9, 2019
Available for free
Amazon US * Amazon UK
I thought Justice for Mackenzie was a good start to this series and it certainly has me interested in the secondary characters we were introduces to. As for Mackenzie and Dax, I thought they were great as main characters and kept the book intriguing. I'm not going to lie, I did find myself skimming over some of Mackenzie's rambles but they never bothered me too much and I liked that Dax only seemed to find them cute.
Amazon US * Amazon UK
I thought Justice for Mackenzie was a good start to this series and it certainly has me interested in the secondary characters we were introduces to. As for Mackenzie and Dax, I thought they were great as main characters and kept the book intriguing. I'm not going to lie, I did find myself skimming over some of Mackenzie's rambles but they never bothered me too much and I liked that Dax only seemed to find them cute.
July 28, 2015
Ok, so anyone who has followed my blog or my reviews knows I am a HUGE Susan Stoker fan. I love the SEAL of protection series and was super bummed that its almost over. Then I read Justice for Mackenzie. While I will miss my SEALs I am totally in love with this new series! So, why do I love it? Here ya go:
1. The characters are a bit more mature. I LOVE new adult don't get me wrong. However, its nice to read a book with mature characters who aren't dealing with the drama and angst of college life!
2. Mackenzie is seriously hilarious! Everyone knows someone like Mackenzie and you love her! She is your crazy friend.
3. Dax is so swoon worthy and a bit of dirty talker...HOT
4. She introduces you to a team of new characters but they don't all have the same job!! They are all in law enforcement of some sort but all work for different areas and branches. I love that you get to peek into different aspects.
5. Serious suspense in this book. I read the book in one sitting because it isn't the type of book you can find a good stopping point. It was over before I knew it! Great pacing throughout the book.
6. Their relationship is NORMAL!! Dax and Mack talk about things, they go through the normal dating routine, and don't just hop into bed. So many books now are all about sex (sex becomes the story instead of part of the story) so I FLOVE a book that shows a normal couple!
There wasn't a single thing I didn't like about the book. I am NOT kidding you. This book starts her new series with a bang and I cannot be more excited about it.
My full review will be posted here: http://www.thebookdisciple.com
ARC received in exchange for an honest review
1. The characters are a bit more mature. I LOVE new adult don't get me wrong. However, its nice to read a book with mature characters who aren't dealing with the drama and angst of college life!
2. Mackenzie is seriously hilarious! Everyone knows someone like Mackenzie and you love her! She is your crazy friend.
3. Dax is so swoon worthy and a bit of dirty talker...HOT
4. She introduces you to a team of new characters but they don't all have the same job!! They are all in law enforcement of some sort but all work for different areas and branches. I love that you get to peek into different aspects.
5. Serious suspense in this book. I read the book in one sitting because it isn't the type of book you can find a good stopping point. It was over before I knew it! Great pacing throughout the book.
6. Their relationship is NORMAL!! Dax and Mack talk about things, they go through the normal dating routine, and don't just hop into bed. So many books now are all about sex (sex becomes the story instead of part of the story) so I FLOVE a book that shows a normal couple!
There wasn't a single thing I didn't like about the book. I am NOT kidding you. This book starts her new series with a bang and I cannot be more excited about it.
My full review will be posted here: http://www.thebookdisciple.com
ARC received in exchange for an honest review
April 2, 2023
This is a Romantic Suspense, and this is the first book in the Badge of Honor: Texas Heroes. I will say there is a lot of hard to read things in this book, and there may be some triggers for some people. In this book you get to know all the main characters in this book series, but this is the love story of Daxton and Mackenzie. I really love Mackenzie's character. I found myself laughing several times while reading this book. I also cried during the ending of this book. This book was cute at times, but there is also a ton of action, suspense, and hard to read things in this book.
July 19, 2015
Hot, sexy and funny…did I mention hot?
I read this book in one sitting and am still recovering from a dramatic, emotional twist that had my stomach in knots, tears in my eyes and words of disbelief turning the air blue…
I’m calmer now, I should have known this author would bring me back from the ledge. The happy dance starts early when I know this author has a new book coming out. I wanted to love this story before I even read it which is always dangerous – what if it doesn’t live up to the stories that came before it? I had nothing to worry about as I LOVED this story from the opening pages and couldn’t put it down until the last oh, so satisfying ending.
Who doesn’t dream of a tall, handsome, sexy (fourteen-pack, seriously?) Texas Ranger for a boyfriend? Mackenzie Morgan may dream of such a man but also thinks someone like that is out of her league. How could a man like that be interested in a short, curvy not-twenty-anymore woman like her? Well, Daxton Chambers is going to prove her wrong as a chance meeting peeks interest on both sides. Fate has a hand in getting them together and Daxton is not going to let the smart, beautiful, “real” woman who is Mack slip through his fingers.
Mack and Daxton are an older couple, who are old enough to know what they want but still young enough to hope and dream it will still come true. They each come with baggage in one form or another but I love how they actually talk through their fears and insecurities. They each have their quirks – some being downright hilarious – but they don’t ignore them, they either embrace or go around them. No big deal, they just… deal. So refreshing!
There is no unnecessary, fake drama here. The drama that comes from the dangerous territory of a Texas Ranger is enough - nail-biting and oh, so real. The way the characters handle the harrowing life-threatening situation they find themselves in has forever reserved a corner of my heart for both Mack and Daxton.
I’m not ready to leave this newly created world so I will have to settle for re-reading this until the next in the series come out. Thank goodness there are a host of other badge-wearing hotties introduced in this book. November? I have to wait until November?!?! *stalks calendar* ~ Diane, 5 stars
I read this book in one sitting and am still recovering from a dramatic, emotional twist that had my stomach in knots, tears in my eyes and words of disbelief turning the air blue…
I’m calmer now, I should have known this author would bring me back from the ledge. The happy dance starts early when I know this author has a new book coming out. I wanted to love this story before I even read it which is always dangerous – what if it doesn’t live up to the stories that came before it? I had nothing to worry about as I LOVED this story from the opening pages and couldn’t put it down until the last oh, so satisfying ending.
Who doesn’t dream of a tall, handsome, sexy (fourteen-pack, seriously?) Texas Ranger for a boyfriend? Mackenzie Morgan may dream of such a man but also thinks someone like that is out of her league. How could a man like that be interested in a short, curvy not-twenty-anymore woman like her? Well, Daxton Chambers is going to prove her wrong as a chance meeting peeks interest on both sides. Fate has a hand in getting them together and Daxton is not going to let the smart, beautiful, “real” woman who is Mack slip through his fingers.
Mack and Daxton are an older couple, who are old enough to know what they want but still young enough to hope and dream it will still come true. They each come with baggage in one form or another but I love how they actually talk through their fears and insecurities. They each have their quirks – some being downright hilarious – but they don’t ignore them, they either embrace or go around them. No big deal, they just… deal. So refreshing!
There is no unnecessary, fake drama here. The drama that comes from the dangerous territory of a Texas Ranger is enough - nail-biting and oh, so real. The way the characters handle the harrowing life-threatening situation they find themselves in has forever reserved a corner of my heart for both Mack and Daxton.
I’m not ready to leave this newly created world so I will have to settle for re-reading this until the next in the series come out. Thank goodness there are a host of other badge-wearing hotties introduced in this book. November? I have to wait until November?!?! *stalks calendar* ~ Diane, 5 stars
February 17, 2016
*******4.25 stars
Wow! I really liked this book. Mackenzie is a 37 year old clumsy, blundering mess. She babbles consistently when anxious or nervous. I LOVED her. She was so funny and I found myself laughing out loud numerous times. Other reviewers have stated she was annoying etc. but I found her endearing and hilarious. Dax is a 46 year old Texas Ranger. While he's not an over-the-top alpha male, I loved the fact that he accepted Mack and found her babbling cute. He didn't try to change her at all. He was willing to take the time she needed before he moved on with their relationship.
At one point, I thought my heart was going to shatter into a million pieces . I could feel the emotions so raw and pure I was crying along with them.
Yes, Dax has an obsession with body fluids dripping and running. Yes, Mack babbles sometimes meaningless things. But I thoroughly enjoyed this book and I can't wait until the next one.
Safety Gang:
Wow! I really liked this book. Mackenzie is a 37 year old clumsy, blundering mess. She babbles consistently when anxious or nervous. I LOVED her. She was so funny and I found myself laughing out loud numerous times. Other reviewers have stated she was annoying etc. but I found her endearing and hilarious. Dax is a 46 year old Texas Ranger. While he's not an over-the-top alpha male, I loved the fact that he accepted Mack and found her babbling cute. He didn't try to change her at all. He was willing to take the time she needed before he moved on with their relationship.
At one point, I thought my heart was going to shatter into a million pieces . I could feel the emotions so raw and pure I was crying along with them.
Yes, Dax has an obsession with body fluids dripping and running. Yes, Mack babbles sometimes meaningless things. But I thoroughly enjoyed this book and I can't wait until the next one.
Safety Gang:
January 5, 2018
Holy Hell! This book was AH-MA-ZING.
Ok, so I’m just gonna put it out there and admit that when I first realised it was about a Texas Ranger I straight up thought of Chuck Norris, I mean it, straight away. Walker, Texas Ranger is a badass show and I love those Rangers so I just knew I’d love this book, I was intrigued about what was gonna go down and by god, I wasn’t disappointed, not even a little.
Susan Stoker blew my damn mind with this book. The plot was unexpected for me, I didn’t see it coming but I enjoyed reading it because I mean come on, he’s a Texas ranger, they’re legends man.
I absolutely LOVED that it wasn’t about just one force but a few different ones, friends, family. The love they have for each other.
I adored that Mackenzie was a bigger girl, I loved that she was happy with the way she looked and herself. I also loved that she didn’t take any man’s shit and didn’t change for any of the idiots that didn’t like who she was.
Daxton was the kind of man any woman would hope for. Kind, loyal, loving and protective of what’s his and made sure his woman was well off in the bedroom. I loved their times in the bedroom, I loved every minute they were together.
Susan did an amazing job with this book, I’m completely hooked with these characters, I’ll definitely be reading the other books in the series at some point.
Ok, so I’m just gonna put it out there and admit that when I first realised it was about a Texas Ranger I straight up thought of Chuck Norris, I mean it, straight away. Walker, Texas Ranger is a badass show and I love those Rangers so I just knew I’d love this book, I was intrigued about what was gonna go down and by god, I wasn’t disappointed, not even a little.
Susan Stoker blew my damn mind with this book. The plot was unexpected for me, I didn’t see it coming but I enjoyed reading it because I mean come on, he’s a Texas ranger, they’re legends man.
I absolutely LOVED that it wasn’t about just one force but a few different ones, friends, family. The love they have for each other.
I adored that Mackenzie was a bigger girl, I loved that she was happy with the way she looked and herself. I also loved that she didn’t take any man’s shit and didn’t change for any of the idiots that didn’t like who she was.
Daxton was the kind of man any woman would hope for. Kind, loyal, loving and protective of what’s his and made sure his woman was well off in the bedroom. I loved their times in the bedroom, I loved every minute they were together.
Susan did an amazing job with this book, I’m completely hooked with these characters, I’ll definitely be reading the other books in the series at some point.
Want to read
January 13, 2022FREE on Amazon today (11/14/2017)!
May 26, 2019
DNF @ 15%.
ONe word: BORING. And men don’t talk like that.
ONe word: BORING. And men don’t talk like that.
August 16, 2015
I think this is one of those books you don’t have to take too seriously. Justice for Mackenzie was fun, light and slightly OTT in some cases.
Let’s begin with our h, Mackenzie, a 37 year old clutzy babbler and Daxton a h-o-t 46 year old Texas Ranger (yummy). They first see each other at a fundraiser organized by the non-profit organization Mackenzie works for, but nothing happens.
Then Mac is pulled over for speeding by a friend of Dax’s while they are on their way to dinner so when Dax realizes the cute babbler his friend just gave a warning to is the hot woman from that dinner, he gets her number and call her to ask her out on a date.
The whole book is kind of slow paced and skips over periods of time, like 2 weeks, 1 month, and the likes, where they get to know each other better and settle their relationship. Soon they’re both sure they were meant for each other, and it’s good and bad because a serial killer whose case Daxton is working, has fixated on him and that means he has Mackenzie in his sights (psycho threats and all).
Now, I get being clumsy is not something that can be helped, I bang myself against walls and furniture all the time, drop things from time to time, but this woman… she is all thumbs.
Her rumbling went into ridiculous more often than not, and totally un-believable, but I will say that it had me bursting out laughing from the sheer absurdity of it sometimes.
Daxton… Oh Daxton, you could have been up there in the book boyfriend list… but, alas! My dad used to make me watch “Walker, Texas Ranger” when I was little and me not being from the States that’s pretty much all the info I had on these guys (apologies to any and all real Texas Rangers… I don’t think that show was anything close to reality, now that I’m older). So, as I was saying, I had this whole super tough, bad ass dude in my head. And then he tosses up his lunch when he reads a threat made against Mackenzie… dude! I don’t think Mitch Lawson would do that! Or Brock Lucas, or…well, any other male bad ass alpha character.
Then he apparently suffered from some brain-mouth connection deficiency as he said:
Oh wait, was that a compliment?
And later on we get this insight of his…
Because you know, we women love skanks to come onto our men while they’re on a date with us. SERIOUSLY???!!! At this point I didn’t know if I wanted to punch him in the face or hit him over the head with something.
Still I enjoyed the story quite a lot, laughed a great deal and overall liked it. There was a lot of name dropping in the first chapter, where I guess all the next stories from Daxton group of law-enforcement friends will be coming from, that at first was a bit hard to keep up with, but I guess it’ll straighten out when we move farther along in the series.
I do have a really big issue with the author who is either really, really tall for a woman or is surrounded by giants. Mackenzie was 5’4”… and she is constantly saying how she can’t look into people’s eyes. Well, I’m 5’4” and I’m not a midget, I can look quite comfortably into any person eyes as long as they’re not freaking gigantic -_-
*I received a complimentary copy from the Author in exchange for an honest review*
Let’s begin with our h, Mackenzie, a 37 year old clutzy babbler and Daxton a h-o-t 46 year old Texas Ranger (yummy). They first see each other at a fundraiser organized by the non-profit organization Mackenzie works for, but nothing happens.
Then Mac is pulled over for speeding by a friend of Dax’s while they are on their way to dinner so when Dax realizes the cute babbler his friend just gave a warning to is the hot woman from that dinner, he gets her number and call her to ask her out on a date.
The whole book is kind of slow paced and skips over periods of time, like 2 weeks, 1 month, and the likes, where they get to know each other better and settle their relationship. Soon they’re both sure they were meant for each other, and it’s good and bad because a serial killer whose case Daxton is working, has fixated on him and that means he has Mackenzie in his sights (psycho threats and all).
Now, I get being clumsy is not something that can be helped, I bang myself against walls and furniture all the time, drop things from time to time, but this woman… she is all thumbs.
Her rumbling went into ridiculous more often than not, and totally un-believable, but I will say that it had me bursting out laughing from the sheer absurdity of it sometimes.
“You’ll get me, babe. I’ll pump you so full, as soon as I pull away from your tight body, our juices will leak out. When I take you standing up, you’ll feel us dripping down your leg.”
“Oh God, Daxton. That’s so uh…realistic and slightly gross, but honestly, I can’t wait.”
Daxton… Oh Daxton, you could have been up there in the book boyfriend list… but, alas! My dad used to make me watch “Walker, Texas Ranger” when I was little and me not being from the States that’s pretty much all the info I had on these guys (apologies to any and all real Texas Rangers… I don’t think that show was anything close to reality, now that I’m older). So, as I was saying, I had this whole super tough, bad ass dude in my head. And then he tosses up his lunch when he reads a threat made against Mackenzie… dude! I don’t think Mitch Lawson would do that! Or Brock Lucas, or…well, any other male bad ass alpha character.
Then he apparently suffered from some brain-mouth connection deficiency as he said:
“You’re refreshing, especially compared to my friends and the criminals I talk to day in and day out.”
Oh wait, was that a compliment?
And later on we get this insight of his…
“She hadn’t been pissed or thrown a hissy fit when a woman, out having drinks with friends, came up to him and gave him her business card and said, “Call me.” Mackenzie had thought it hilarious instead. It was a refreshing change from the last woman Dax had dated, who’d been pissed when another woman had slipped him her phone number while they were out on a date one night.”
Because you know, we women love skanks to come onto our men while they’re on a date with us. SERIOUSLY???!!! At this point I didn’t know if I wanted to punch him in the face or hit him over the head with something.
Still I enjoyed the story quite a lot, laughed a great deal and overall liked it. There was a lot of name dropping in the first chapter, where I guess all the next stories from Daxton group of law-enforcement friends will be coming from, that at first was a bit hard to keep up with, but I guess it’ll straighten out when we move farther along in the series.
I do have a really big issue with the author who is either really, really tall for a woman or is surrounded by giants. Mackenzie was 5’4”… and she is constantly saying how she can’t look into people’s eyes. Well, I’m 5’4” and I’m not a midget, I can look quite comfortably into any person eyes as long as they’re not freaking gigantic -_-
*I received a complimentary copy from the Author in exchange for an honest review*
February 2, 2017
Bad. Bad. BAD
This is one of those books that could've been acceptable if the writing wasn't so absolutely TERRIBLE! I'm not talking typos or mayor grammar mistakes, I'm talking bad bad bad writing, zero engaging, repetitive to the point of annoyance and oh so dumb dumb dumb.
I don't have one good thing to say about this book, the plot's been done again and again and much much better by writers who actually know how to create engaging dialogue -and to write in general. So we can rule out originality, and other than that I don't see how this thing could redeem itself.
I don't like being mean but honest to God, I don't see how anyone could miss how stiff and fake the dialogues and characters are.
This is one of those books that could've been acceptable if the writing wasn't so absolutely TERRIBLE! I'm not talking typos or mayor grammar mistakes, I'm talking bad bad bad writing, zero engaging, repetitive to the point of annoyance and oh so dumb dumb dumb.
I don't have one good thing to say about this book, the plot's been done again and again and much much better by writers who actually know how to create engaging dialogue -and to write in general. So we can rule out originality, and other than that I don't see how this thing could redeem itself.
I don't like being mean but honest to God, I don't see how anyone could miss how stiff and fake the dialogues and characters are.
March 9, 2016
Amazing book. I love her Seals of Protection Series and I have been dying for this one. This book was a lot of fun, but the ending...oh my! I sat with a box of Kleenex while reading it! Thank god her books always have a HEA ending! I can't wait for the next one.
February 7, 2019
Justice for Mackenzie was the first book in the Badge of Honor: Texas series by Susan Stoker. It was my first book by the author.
Daxton Chambers was a Texas Ranger who was currently working a serial killer case for the Lone Star Reaper who buried women alive. He met the quirky and funny Mackenzie Morgan through a charity event and was lost forever. Unfortunately the case took a personal turn and he was in a race against time.
It was told with a dual POV. It was cute and suspenseful with quirky humor. The suspenseful theme kept me interested and intrigued from beginning to end. Stoker also introduced a fun cast of secondary characters providing additional depth and dimension. I can’t wait to see what’s on the horizon next for Cruz in Justice for Mickie.
Daxton Chambers was a Texas Ranger who was currently working a serial killer case for the Lone Star Reaper who buried women alive. He met the quirky and funny Mackenzie Morgan through a charity event and was lost forever. Unfortunately the case took a personal turn and he was in a race against time.
It was told with a dual POV. It was cute and suspenseful with quirky humor. The suspenseful theme kept me interested and intrigued from beginning to end. Stoker also introduced a fun cast of secondary characters providing additional depth and dimension. I can’t wait to see what’s on the horizon next for Cruz in Justice for Mickie.
November 7, 2016
I did enjoy this one. The heroine's personality was touch and go. She babbled endlessly. But she was not totally annoying and I loved how the hero thought it was so cute. I guess that got me passed it.
Overall, this was an enjoyable romantic suspense, with a little heat (but not much). I liked that the hero and heroine were more mature (37 and 42) and handled everything like adults.
The end was traumatic. Pretty heartbreaking actually.
Super easy to read.
Overall, this was an enjoyable romantic suspense, with a little heat (but not much). I liked that the hero and heroine were more mature (37 and 42) and handled everything like adults.
The end was traumatic. Pretty heartbreaking actually.
Super easy to read.
Read
August 5, 2021I wish I hadn’t wasted my money on this for an audible....the plot has been done so many times before, and the repetitive vulgarity was nauseating and annoying. If you’ve read about sadistic serial killers burying their victims alive....well guess what?? Here’s another one! If you haven’t read that kind of plot before, (or can’t get enough of it) and don’t mind cheesy sex scenes and crude language, you might give it a go.
My own personal opinion....sorry, I won’t be reading anything by this author in the future.
My own personal opinion....sorry, I won’t be reading anything by this author in the future.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 8, 2016
********free as of 7/8/16********
great read
great read
June 24, 2021
Overall Amanda rating: C
While I love everything I have read by Susan Stoker, I did not love this book! This book took some of my favorite things and mushed them together. Just not perfectly. I love romance, protective alpha males, steamy scenes, and learning about serial killers, but I did not love this book. Some of the characters were annoying and overly done, Others were hardly done. I feel like us learning the identity of the serial killer as late as we did was great, but the rest of the book was hard to absolutely hard to love.
Characters.
Mack: Annoying, annoying, and not very charming.
Dax: A decent enough male character, but not a stand out character like others she has written.
I finished this book last night and could not tell you a stand out quality of any of the characters other than Mack is annoying.
This review makes me sad.
While I love everything I have read by Susan Stoker, I did not love this book! This book took some of my favorite things and mushed them together. Just not perfectly. I love romance, protective alpha males, steamy scenes, and learning about serial killers, but I did not love this book. Some of the characters were annoying and overly done, Others were hardly done. I feel like us learning the identity of the serial killer as late as we did was great, but the rest of the book was hard to absolutely hard to love.
Characters.
Mack: Annoying, annoying, and not very charming.
Dax: A decent enough male character, but not a stand out character like others she has written.
I finished this book last night and could not tell you a stand out quality of any of the characters other than Mack is annoying.
This review makes me sad.
July 3, 2019
‘Justice for Mackenzie’ is the first book that I read from the writer Susan Stoker but I had heard good things about her books. So I decided to try one and I must say that I enjoyed this story. One of the things that caught my attention was the age of the main characters. After reading a lot of new adult books, it was interesting to read about a couple who were a bit older (read : closer to my own age ;o) ). Daxton is 45 years old and Mackenzie is 37 years old. Another thing that I liked in this story was the honesty, the down to earth mentality of the characters. They weren’t perfect, each had their own little faults but I liked how they accepted that and dealt with it. Both characters were very likeable. Just like Daxton, I enjoyed Mackenzie rambling about everything she thought. And Daxton was a great guy. The story wasn’t very long but the storyline was well written and the characters were good developed. And the end, wow! That was emotional, I never expected that! The story is told in both POV’s.
June 28, 2023
~Daxton loves his job as a Texas Ranger. His current case is getting to him, especially when those close to him are threatened. Dating shouldn’t be on his radar but he can’t resist what he knows is his future… Mackenzie Morgan.~
I really enjoyed this except for the end. Idk, I felt like Daxton lost hope rather quick.. I know there wasn’t too much for him to do but he just kinda gave up on her. That is literally my only complaint but it was enough for me to give this 4 stars instead of 5.
I really enjoyed this except for the end. Idk, I felt like Daxton lost hope rather quick.. I know there wasn’t too much for him to do but he just kinda gave up on her. That is literally my only complaint but it was enough for me to give this 4 stars instead of 5.
August 20, 2015
I loved the fact that the main characters in JUSTICE FOR MACKENZIE features real adults. Mackenzie is thirty seven and Daxton is forty six. Neither are struggling to find themselves in a world that they are just learning to navigate. They are both grown ups who just haven't found the right person to share their lives with yet.
Mackenzie is slightly overweight but is completely comfortable with her size. She doesn't make excuses or apologies for being who she is. Mackenzie's character isn't over done or outrageous when it comes to her body image and I found that to be a nice change from the idea of a woman with curves either having to be convinced that she's attractive or she is over the top embracing herself to the point of bashing anyone who is smaller. Stoker didn't go with either of those in this story and it worked really well. Mackenzie does have relationship issues though. Being in her late thirties and never married happened for a reason and it wasn't totally Mackenzie's choice. Her fear of rejection caused her to push men away before they had a chance to leave her. The only negative I had with Mackenzie is that she is a babbler but Daxton found it 'cute' so whatever floats your boat Dax!
Daxton is a hunky Texas Ranger and you just can't go wrong with that. His attraction to Mackenzie is instantaneous and totally wonderful. Daxton sees what he wants and isn't afraid to take a gamble to see if Mackenzie is what she appears to be. Daxton is on the case of a serial killer on the loose in San Antonio and as women continue to be found after having been buried alive time is running out and the suspense builds slowly.
Since this is book 1 in the BADGE OF HONOR series we do get a little set up for some of the other characters that will undoubtedly get their own books down the line. Stoker weaves them in nicely and the secondary characters do not take away from the main story of Daxton and Mackenzie. I do wish that the romantic suspense element with the serial killer had been explored a bit more in the beginning but when it does crank up things really barrel forward quickly to the end. JUSTICE FOR MACKENZIE is sexy, suspenseful, sometimes funny, and by the end was an emotional ride. This was my first book by Stoker but I will be looking forward to reading the next book in this series when it is available. A whole series dedicated to men who serve and protect? Sign me up!
**I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review**
You can find more from me at
•(♥).•*Monlatable Book Reviews*•.(♥)•
http://www.monlatablereviews.com/
Mackenzie is slightly overweight but is completely comfortable with her size. She doesn't make excuses or apologies for being who she is. Mackenzie's character isn't over done or outrageous when it comes to her body image and I found that to be a nice change from the idea of a woman with curves either having to be convinced that she's attractive or she is over the top embracing herself to the point of bashing anyone who is smaller. Stoker didn't go with either of those in this story and it worked really well. Mackenzie does have relationship issues though. Being in her late thirties and never married happened for a reason and it wasn't totally Mackenzie's choice. Her fear of rejection caused her to push men away before they had a chance to leave her. The only negative I had with Mackenzie is that she is a babbler but Daxton found it 'cute' so whatever floats your boat Dax!
Daxton is a hunky Texas Ranger and you just can't go wrong with that. His attraction to Mackenzie is instantaneous and totally wonderful. Daxton sees what he wants and isn't afraid to take a gamble to see if Mackenzie is what she appears to be. Daxton is on the case of a serial killer on the loose in San Antonio and as women continue to be found after having been buried alive time is running out and the suspense builds slowly.
Since this is book 1 in the BADGE OF HONOR series we do get a little set up for some of the other characters that will undoubtedly get their own books down the line. Stoker weaves them in nicely and the secondary characters do not take away from the main story of Daxton and Mackenzie. I do wish that the romantic suspense element with the serial killer had been explored a bit more in the beginning but when it does crank up things really barrel forward quickly to the end. JUSTICE FOR MACKENZIE is sexy, suspenseful, sometimes funny, and by the end was an emotional ride. This was my first book by Stoker but I will be looking forward to reading the next book in this series when it is available. A whole series dedicated to men who serve and protect? Sign me up!
**I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review**
You can find more from me at
•(♥).•*Monlatable Book Reviews*•.(♥)•
http://www.monlatablereviews.com/
July 5, 2020
Justice for Mackenzie is book one of Badge of Honor and Texas Heroes by Susan Stoker. One of the cases Texas Rangers Daxton Chambers was investigating a serial killer. During his investigation, Texas Ranger Daxton Chambers started a relationship with Mackenzie. However, this friendship made MacKenzie target for the killer. The readers of Justice for Mackenzie will follow Texas Rangers Daxton Chambers to find out what happens.
Justice for Mackenzie is a fantastic book by Susan Stoker. I engage with the plot of this book from the first page. I love the way Susan Stoker portrayal her characters and the way they interacted w.ith each other throughout this book. I like Susan Stoker description of the settings of this book, and it allowed me to imagine living in Texas. Justice for Mackenzie was well written and researched by Susan Stoker.
The readers of Justice for Mackenzie will learn about the role of a Texas Ranger. Also, the readers of Justice for Mackenzie will understand the role of event coordinators to raise money for the community.
I recommend this book.
Justice for Mackenzie is a fantastic book by Susan Stoker. I engage with the plot of this book from the first page. I love the way Susan Stoker portrayal her characters and the way they interacted w.ith each other throughout this book. I like Susan Stoker description of the settings of this book, and it allowed me to imagine living in Texas. Justice for Mackenzie was well written and researched by Susan Stoker.
The readers of Justice for Mackenzie will learn about the role of a Texas Ranger. Also, the readers of Justice for Mackenzie will understand the role of event coordinators to raise money for the community.
I recommend this book.
September 28, 2015
3.9 Stars
Read
April 26, 2016Review to come....
March 14, 2020
Honestly, I'd give this one 4.5 stars if I could. Susan Stoker made a name for herself writing sexy, suspenseful romances featuring Navy SEALs (and now Delta Force operatives). In the Badge of Honor series, she features a mix of law enforcement, firefighters, and other first responders, and the series is actually better than what she was writing before. Changing up her characters has changed her writing enough to keep it from becoming formulaic.
This book is part romance, part Criminal Minds episode, as Texas ranger Dax and his new girlfriend Mackenzie are targeted by the serial killer he's been investigating, leading to seriously suspenseful moments where you wonder if the story is going to have a happy ending after all (spoiler: it does). I look forward to reading more of this series.
This book is part romance, part Criminal Minds episode, as Texas ranger Dax and his new girlfriend Mackenzie are targeted by the serial killer he's been investigating, leading to seriously suspenseful moments where you wonder if the story is going to have a happy ending after all (spoiler: it does). I look forward to reading more of this series.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 9, 2017
5*
New to me author that officially will create a binge read.
There's a serial killer on the loose who likes to bury women alive. He's been careful in not getting caught. There's no connection between the victims, only that he leaves the body for Texas Law Enforcement to clean up, in particular Texas Ranger Daxton Chambers. In the middle of the case from hell he meets Mackenzie Morgan who is strong, sexy, and made for him. Can he serve his city and protect the woman who has walked into his life and caught the attention of the serial killer?
Justice for Mackenzie is DEFINITELY a page turner. In addition this book has it all!
*Sexy times* Funny times* Intense moments*
Did I mention that Dax's friends are from different branches of law enforcement? Ohhh.. they are! AND they are ALL sexy (single). Can you see why I'm about to binge read?
What are doing STILL doing here? Go on. Read this book. Read this series! Me, I've got a date with a certain sexy FBI agent who is going undercover: Justice for Mickie
New to me author that officially will create a binge read.
There's a serial killer on the loose who likes to bury women alive. He's been careful in not getting caught. There's no connection between the victims, only that he leaves the body for Texas Law Enforcement to clean up, in particular Texas Ranger Daxton Chambers. In the middle of the case from hell he meets Mackenzie Morgan who is strong, sexy, and made for him. Can he serve his city and protect the woman who has walked into his life and caught the attention of the serial killer?
Justice for Mackenzie is DEFINITELY a page turner. In addition this book has it all!
*Sexy times* Funny times* Intense moments*
Did I mention that Dax's friends are from different branches of law enforcement? Ohhh.. they are! AND they are ALL sexy (single). Can you see why I'm about to binge read?
What are doing STILL doing here? Go on. Read this book. Read this series! Me, I've got a date with a certain sexy FBI agent who is going undercover: Justice for Mickie
April 11, 2020
This was a taut thriller with some truly scary parts. Toss in an unusual assortment of teammates, and some pretty hot sex, and you've got a good romance. Not a lot of angst between the characters, but the bad guy is a monster. The action scenes were sell done, as were the sexy ones.
I'll read the next one.
I'll read the next one.
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