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Cowboy State Lawmen #2
Wyoming Christmas Stalker
The wrong place, the wrong time…
The right man to protect her.
After Grace Clark accidentally witnesses a brutal murder, she tumbles headlong into a world of motorcycle gangs, cults and a young girl's secrets. Dogged chief deputy sheriff Holden Powell's determined to help discover what's wreaking havoc on their idyllic western town this Christmas. The rancher-turned-lawman has something to prove, and he won’t let anything happen to Grace—not on his watch.
The right man to protect her.
After Grace Clark accidentally witnesses a brutal murder, she tumbles headlong into a world of motorcycle gangs, cults and a young girl's secrets. Dogged chief deputy sheriff Holden Powell's determined to help discover what's wreaking havoc on their idyllic western town this Christmas. The rancher-turned-lawman has something to prove, and he won’t let anything happen to Grace—not on his watch.
251 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published November 16, 2022
About the author
Juno Rushdan
149 books1,575 followersJuno Rushdan is a veteran US Air Force intelligence officer and the award-winning author of romantic thrillers. Her books are action-packed, nail-biting page-turners with twists you won’t see coming. Critics from Kirkus, Publishers Weekly, BookPage and Library Journal have called her work “heart-pounding James Bond-ian adventure”, “fast-paced”, “gripping”, “a thrill ride” that “will captivate lovers of romantic thrillers.” She is married to her own military hero and is privileged to have two rambunctious kids and a spoiled rescue dog. For a FREE book from Juno: http://bit.ly/JunoFREE. Be sure to follow her on BookBub for the latest on sales: bit.ly/BookBubJuno.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews
November 29, 2022
Wyoming Christmas Stalker by Juno Rushdan
Cowboy State Lawmen book 2. Harlequin romantic suspense. Can be read as a stand-alone.
Grace witnesses a murder and is thrust into a nightmare of threats, and dangerous bikers. Detective Holden Powell will do what it takes to make sure Grace is safe as he tracks down the killer.
Fast paced suspense and gripping storytelling. Holden, as the underdog is steady, protective and he makes Grace’s heart race. Slow burn romance behind closed doors.
Cowboy State Lawmen book 2. Harlequin romantic suspense. Can be read as a stand-alone.
Grace witnesses a murder and is thrust into a nightmare of threats, and dangerous bikers. Detective Holden Powell will do what it takes to make sure Grace is safe as he tracks down the killer.
Fast paced suspense and gripping storytelling. Holden, as the underdog is steady, protective and he makes Grace’s heart race. Slow burn romance behind closed doors.
December 3, 2022
4.5 stars
This was such a fun romantic suspense! I didn't know it had a cult element, which I really loved. The heroine witnesses a murder and the chief deputy wants to protect her and find out who committed the murder. As they are uncovering more clues, someone is trying to scare and kill the heroine. They investigate many things, including the cult the woman who was murdered was a part of. While this was a short read, I couldn't put it down! I had a lot of fun and felt like I was watching one of my favorite crime drama shows. Sure the romance was a bit insta love, but I just had fun with this book and definitely want to read more from this series!
This was such a fun romantic suspense! I didn't know it had a cult element, which I really loved. The heroine witnesses a murder and the chief deputy wants to protect her and find out who committed the murder. As they are uncovering more clues, someone is trying to scare and kill the heroine. They investigate many things, including the cult the woman who was murdered was a part of. While this was a short read, I couldn't put it down! I had a lot of fun and felt like I was watching one of my favorite crime drama shows. Sure the romance was a bit insta love, but I just had fun with this book and definitely want to read more from this series!
December 15, 2022
I am a loyal Juno Rushdan fan. I've read them all and enjoyed them all. This book is well written, but I guessed each plot point throughout the book. Because Juno Rushdan is such a wonderful author, I loved this book despite that.
Grace Clark is in Laramie, Wyoming to get a handle on her life after a patient under her care in palliative care dies. She is working as a manager at a bar & grill while getting her master's degree in nursing. While closing the bar, she witnesses a murder.
Chief Deputy Sherriff Holden Powell has been hanging out at Delgado's Bar & Grill trying his best to get to know Grace, who just happens to be his boss's sister. Now he needs to keep her safe when someone tries to terrify her. It is connected with the murder she witnessed or is it something else?
Grace Clark is in Laramie, Wyoming to get a handle on her life after a patient under her care in palliative care dies. She is working as a manager at a bar & grill while getting her master's degree in nursing. While closing the bar, she witnesses a murder.
Chief Deputy Sherriff Holden Powell has been hanging out at Delgado's Bar & Grill trying his best to get to know Grace, who just happens to be his boss's sister. Now he needs to keep her safe when someone tries to terrify her. It is connected with the murder she witnessed or is it something else?
December 4, 2022
Nicely paced intrigue with plenty of suspects.
October 9, 2025
This book was good, until the end.
December 1, 2022
Terrific book drew me in from the first page, and didn't let go until I'd read the last one. The balance of suspense and romance is excellent. This is the second book in the series and can be read as a standalone, though a deeper understanding of the dynamics comes with reading the first book, too.
Grace is a nurse taking a break after a tough case. She is also distancing herself from her mother and ex-fiancé by moving to Wyoming near her older brother, the sheriff. While taking online classes for her master's degree, she works as the manager/bartender of Delgado's, a local bar. One night she witnesses an altercation at the B&B across the street - an argument that ended in murder. This put Grace in the middle of a dangerous situation.
Chief Deputy Holden Powell was the responding officer. Holden is a secondary character in the previous book (Wyoming Winter Rescue) and is dealing with the fallout from the events of that book. The sheriff supports him, but Holden feels the pressure of public opinion and is determined to redeem himself. Solving the murder and keeping Grace safe is personal as well as professional.
I enjoyed seeing the relationship develop between Grace and Holden. He has been sweet on her since she arrived in town but feels unworthy of pursuing her thanks to what happened. Instead, he worships from afar through daily appearances where she works. When she's in danger, Holden's protectiveness kicks in. He will do anything to keep her safe. Grace has noticed Holden but is off relationships after a recent breakup. However, she can't deny the sparks she feels around him. There are sweet scenes between them when Grace needs him, and Holden steps up to provide the comfort she craves. As they spend more time together, Grace sees the vulnerable man Holden is hiding behind his professional demeanor. I loved watching her overcome his insecurities and show him the good man that he is. At the same time, Holden's support shows Grace that she's stronger than she knew. I loved the ending and seeing them agree that they belong together.
The suspense had me glued to the pages from start to finish. After Grace witnessed the murder of the young woman, she became the victim of multiple attacks. Holden works to solve the murder and keep Grace safe at the same time. The victim was linked to a cult and a local motorcycle club. What did she know about either or both that was enough to get her killed? Grace's attempt to help identify the killer drew unwelcome attention. The twists and turns of the investigation and the attacks on Grace kept me guessing. There were a couple of things I didn't see coming, which made the intensity even stronger. There is a slight cliffhanger involving one character, and a story arc I expect will run through the series. I can't wait to read the next book.
Grace is a nurse taking a break after a tough case. She is also distancing herself from her mother and ex-fiancé by moving to Wyoming near her older brother, the sheriff. While taking online classes for her master's degree, she works as the manager/bartender of Delgado's, a local bar. One night she witnesses an altercation at the B&B across the street - an argument that ended in murder. This put Grace in the middle of a dangerous situation.
Chief Deputy Holden Powell was the responding officer. Holden is a secondary character in the previous book (Wyoming Winter Rescue) and is dealing with the fallout from the events of that book. The sheriff supports him, but Holden feels the pressure of public opinion and is determined to redeem himself. Solving the murder and keeping Grace safe is personal as well as professional.
I enjoyed seeing the relationship develop between Grace and Holden. He has been sweet on her since she arrived in town but feels unworthy of pursuing her thanks to what happened. Instead, he worships from afar through daily appearances where she works. When she's in danger, Holden's protectiveness kicks in. He will do anything to keep her safe. Grace has noticed Holden but is off relationships after a recent breakup. However, she can't deny the sparks she feels around him. There are sweet scenes between them when Grace needs him, and Holden steps up to provide the comfort she craves. As they spend more time together, Grace sees the vulnerable man Holden is hiding behind his professional demeanor. I loved watching her overcome his insecurities and show him the good man that he is. At the same time, Holden's support shows Grace that she's stronger than she knew. I loved the ending and seeing them agree that they belong together.
The suspense had me glued to the pages from start to finish. After Grace witnessed the murder of the young woman, she became the victim of multiple attacks. Holden works to solve the murder and keep Grace safe at the same time. The victim was linked to a cult and a local motorcycle club. What did she know about either or both that was enough to get her killed? Grace's attempt to help identify the killer drew unwelcome attention. The twists and turns of the investigation and the attacks on Grace kept me guessing. There were a couple of things I didn't see coming, which made the intensity even stronger. There is a slight cliffhanger involving one character, and a story arc I expect will run through the series. I can't wait to read the next book.
November 29, 2022
There is a lot going on in this fast-paced, riveting book and many surprises along the way. Grace is in Wyoming to escape her mother’s control and has taken a job at the local bar, Delgado’s. One night as she is closing up, Grace witnesses a murder and then all kinds of chaos starts in her life after that. Her life is constantly in danger and she forms a close relationship with Deputy Holden Powell as a result. The action just kept on coming, with one incident after another and a lot of twists as well as a sub-plot, too. I was completely surprised by who the villains were. There were clues and I’m sure that if I re-read the book, I would catch them the second time around, but they were subtly and well-placed, keeping the story interesting and engaging. The characters were wonderful depictions of a hero who thinks he is broken and useless and a heroine who doesn’t realize she needs anyone else in her life. The romance is one that simmers slowly and is very satisfying. I enjoyed everything about this book and look forward to a new book in the Cowboy Lawman series. This book can definitely be read and enjoyed as a standalone and is a perfect quick read for anyone who enjoys edge-of-your-seat suspense and a developing romantic interlude.
Disclaimer
Disclosure of Material Connection:
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255, “Guidelines Concerning the Use of Testimonials and Endorsements in Advertising.”
Disclaimer
Disclosure of Material Connection:
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255, “Guidelines Concerning the Use of Testimonials and Endorsements in Advertising.”
November 29, 2022
This is the 2nd book in the “Cowboy State Lawmen Series”. Juno Rushdan has a unique style in writing romance suspense, her characters are awesome and the plots are great. This is an entertaining read that is action packed, drama filled, suspenseful, turns, twists, mayhem, murder, romance that kept me turning page after page. Grace is the sister of the local sheriff Clark and she moved to Wyoming to get away from her controlling mother. She is working at the local bar Delgado’s. Holden is the chief deputy sheriff and he goes into Delgado’s and he is very much interested in Grace but knows that it is forbidden as his boss is Grace’s brother Clark the sheriff. One day Grace is closing up Delgado’s when she witnesses a fight between a woman and a masked man that results in a murder. Holden and Grace develop a relationship as he does his best to protect and keep Grace safe as the villain is hot on her trail.
Who was the masked man, why did he murder the woman, can Holden protect and keep Grace safe, how will Clark fill when he finds out about Holden and is sister Grace?
I received an ARC via the author and I am leaving my review voluntarily.
Who was the masked man, why did he murder the woman, can Holden protect and keep Grace safe, how will Clark fill when he finds out about Holden and is sister Grace?
I received an ARC via the author and I am leaving my review voluntarily.
September 11, 2023
This was a good book. I enjoyed both main characters though I felt like the author didn’t do a California girl justice. A couple of time I couldn’t believe how stupid Grace was being. Grace has brains and brains, I don’t feel these were actually part of the character, of my the author writing her way around something to make it easier on herself.
Also on the cover Grace is black, but in the book this is never mentioned. Her curly hair is mentioned a couple of times but nothing more. This is a disservice to representation. Harlequin should be called out for this, there is no reason why she couldn’t have been clearly a POC in the book. This seems half a$$ed on the publisher’s part.
Great suspense. Multiple “bad guys”, some are punished some are not, which pulls the reader further into the series.
I would have loved more of a Christmas feel. There were no lights, Christmas trees, music, etc. to convey the holiday. This could have taken place any time of year, which is a pet peeve of mine in holiday books.
I enjoyed this one much more than the first in the series but for the reasons above I can’t give it 5 stars.
Also on the cover Grace is black, but in the book this is never mentioned. Her curly hair is mentioned a couple of times but nothing more. This is a disservice to representation. Harlequin should be called out for this, there is no reason why she couldn’t have been clearly a POC in the book. This seems half a$$ed on the publisher’s part.
Great suspense. Multiple “bad guys”, some are punished some are not, which pulls the reader further into the series.
I would have loved more of a Christmas feel. There were no lights, Christmas trees, music, etc. to convey the holiday. This could have taken place any time of year, which is a pet peeve of mine in holiday books.
I enjoyed this one much more than the first in the series but for the reasons above I can’t give it 5 stars.
November 29, 2022
As a self-proclaimed romantic suspense junkie, I’m officially a hard-core Juno Rushdan fan at this point. I simply haven’t found a book of hers that I didn’t devour in only a few hours. This book is the second in her newest series, but you can read it as a complete standalone. I’m already hooked on this series and can’t wait for all the books to release.
With lots of action, suspense, twists, and turns, it grabbed me and sucked me in right away and didn’t let me go until the end. It also kept me guessing as to who the villain really was, which always makes for a better suspense read.
Wyoming Christmas Stalker is yet another reason I reach for Juno Rushdan’s books when looking for well-written romantic suspense. She’s thoroughly cemented herself as a great romantic suspense author and ranks among the top of my automatic 1-click authors’ list.
With lots of action, suspense, twists, and turns, it grabbed me and sucked me in right away and didn’t let me go until the end. It also kept me guessing as to who the villain really was, which always makes for a better suspense read.
Wyoming Christmas Stalker is yet another reason I reach for Juno Rushdan’s books when looking for well-written romantic suspense. She’s thoroughly cemented herself as a great romantic suspense author and ranks among the top of my automatic 1-click authors’ list.
December 18, 2022
Cowboy romances aren’t really my thing, so when I saw that Juno Rushdan was starting a new series entitled Cowboy Lawmen, well, I was worried. But two books in, I can safely say that these are just as excellent as her previous books. Quickly paced and full of suspense and romance, it’s an edge of your seat read. While this is the second in the series, it can easily be read as a standalone.
Grace moved from California to Wyoming to start fresh, far away from her over-bearing mother and ex-fiance. While taking online classes to get her master’s, she’s working as a manager at Delgado’s bar and grill. It’s while closing one day that she witnesses a murder at the inn across the street. Chief Deputy Holden works with Grace’s brother, the sheriff, though he’s pretty much the only person who trusts him. After a scandal involving two of the people closest to him, no one else believes he wasn’t involved. That puts even more pressure on him to solve the murder and keep Grace safe – and his crush on her doesn’t hurt either. But every step towards solving the murder leads to more questions and someone – or someones – won’t stop until Grace is silenced.
Holden’s had a crush on Grace since she moved in to town, but between being the sheriff’s sister and his reputation in the town, he didn’t feel like he could pursue anything with her. Instead he’s been doing small things to keep close to her, like eating pie at Delgado’s every day. But with the case keeping them in close proximity, it’s harder than ever to keep his hands to himself. For Grace, the crash and burn of her last relationship has her swearing them off for the foreseeable future. She just wants to concentrate on getting her master’s and enjoying a simple, quiet life, depending only on herself. It takes time – and a lot of near-death experiences for Grace – for Holden to come to terms with his guilt and for Grace to accept that she doesn’t need to be an island.
This author’s books always keep the intrigue rolling and this book is no exception. From the first few pages, it’s chock-full of quickly paced suspense. There’s a murder, a cult, a biker gang, a threatening landlord and then the titular stalker. That all sounds like an insane amount of things to pack into a 250 page book but everything works together to keep the plot flowing. The (closed door) romance and the suspense are neatly balanced, which given the pacing is an amazing feat.
Overall, yup, it’s another great suspense by Juno Rushdan. Perfect if you’re looking for something to keep you on the edge of your seat this Christmas!
I received an advance review copy of this book from the author. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
Content notes:
“Sheriff Daniel Clark had tasked him with two priorities while he was on vacation. Make sure that all hell didn’t break loose in town and keep an eye on his little sister.
And by “keep an eye on” he meant “don’t let her get into trouble.” Apparently, it was too late for that.”
Grace moved from California to Wyoming to start fresh, far away from her over-bearing mother and ex-fiance. While taking online classes to get her master’s, she’s working as a manager at Delgado’s bar and grill. It’s while closing one day that she witnesses a murder at the inn across the street. Chief Deputy Holden works with Grace’s brother, the sheriff, though he’s pretty much the only person who trusts him. After a scandal involving two of the people closest to him, no one else believes he wasn’t involved. That puts even more pressure on him to solve the murder and keep Grace safe – and his crush on her doesn’t hurt either. But every step towards solving the murder leads to more questions and someone – or someones – won’t stop until Grace is silenced.
Holden’s had a crush on Grace since she moved in to town, but between being the sheriff’s sister and his reputation in the town, he didn’t feel like he could pursue anything with her. Instead he’s been doing small things to keep close to her, like eating pie at Delgado’s every day. But with the case keeping them in close proximity, it’s harder than ever to keep his hands to himself. For Grace, the crash and burn of her last relationship has her swearing them off for the foreseeable future. She just wants to concentrate on getting her master’s and enjoying a simple, quiet life, depending only on herself. It takes time – and a lot of near-death experiences for Grace – for Holden to come to terms with his guilt and for Grace to accept that she doesn’t need to be an island.
This author’s books always keep the intrigue rolling and this book is no exception. From the first few pages, it’s chock-full of quickly paced suspense. There’s a murder, a cult, a biker gang, a threatening landlord and then the titular stalker. That all sounds like an insane amount of things to pack into a 250 page book but everything works together to keep the plot flowing. The (closed door) romance and the suspense are neatly balanced, which given the pacing is an amazing feat.
Overall, yup, it’s another great suspense by Juno Rushdan. Perfect if you’re looking for something to keep you on the edge of your seat this Christmas!
I received an advance review copy of this book from the author. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
Content notes:
July 22, 2023
Fantastic!
You're probably wondering why I am reading a Xmas book in July but to that I say mind to business lol. I read the first in this series about two months back and I was dying to read Holden’s story and it did not disappoint. A good author knows how to set up characters so you’ll want to read the next book and this edition was even better.
Holden and Claire have been pining for each other but they weren’t exactly friends, knowing they could never truly be friends. The slow burn of this story is excellently paced.
This book has a motorcycle club, a sorta new age religious cult, and a stalker, all in one! JR knows how to pace romance and suspense, which is not easy to do. Just as suspense ramped up, so did the proximity/romance between the characters.
I really enjoyed this and almost want to read it again to pick up clues I initially missed.
Also, Holden’s family was adorable and hopefully, there will be some more books featuring them.
You're probably wondering why I am reading a Xmas book in July but to that I say mind to business lol. I read the first in this series about two months back and I was dying to read Holden’s story and it did not disappoint. A good author knows how to set up characters so you’ll want to read the next book and this edition was even better.
Holden and Claire have been pining for each other but they weren’t exactly friends, knowing they could never truly be friends. The slow burn of this story is excellently paced.
This book has a motorcycle club, a sorta new age religious cult, and a stalker, all in one! JR knows how to pace romance and suspense, which is not easy to do. Just as suspense ramped up, so did the proximity/romance between the characters.
I really enjoyed this and almost want to read it again to pick up clues I initially missed.
Also, Holden’s family was adorable and hopefully, there will be some more books featuring them.
November 22, 2022
I loved this book! Holden suffered so much and people are still doubting him so much that he has doubts he is deserving to be loved.....as a result Holden just speak daily to Grace under the pretense to be hungry....it's kind of cute until Grace is in danger and then he will do everything to keep her safe.
Grace flee an dominating mother all the way to wyoming, her brother may be the sheriff but she wants to do things her way. One night she sees a fight between a woman and a masked man..he tries to help but too late she witnesses her murder....To said that Grace is attracting trouble is an euphemism and Holden is very busy between all those against her for one reason or another....
I loved to see their relationship blossom, there are sweet moments, lot of action, good suspens and an excellent investigation. Really a great series to discover and i just want more...some villains must still be punished and i hope to see Grace tells her mother how she puts her in danger^^.
excellent romance suspense with a christmas setting
Grace flee an dominating mother all the way to wyoming, her brother may be the sheriff but she wants to do things her way. One night she sees a fight between a woman and a masked man..he tries to help but too late she witnesses her murder....To said that Grace is attracting trouble is an euphemism and Holden is very busy between all those against her for one reason or another....
I loved to see their relationship blossom, there are sweet moments, lot of action, good suspens and an excellent investigation. Really a great series to discover and i just want more...some villains must still be punished and i hope to see Grace tells her mother how she puts her in danger^^.
excellent romance suspense with a christmas setting
December 4, 2022
As Grace Clark is closing Delgado’s Bar & Grill, her attention is gripped by a couple’s altercation from the B & B that is across the street.
Grace’s gut feeling is telling her something isn’t right, and she decided to check on the brunette. That’s when she witnesses the homicide that’s about to take place.
Then, Grace’s worst nightmare has just begun because she just happens to be at the wrong place at the wrong time..
In WYOMING CHRISTMAS STALKER, the Cowboy State Lawmen book 2, the prolific Juno Rushdan, once again, takes you on a dynamic ride that is jam-packed with actions with a pinch of romance, that would send you heart-racing all the way to the end.
If you enjoy high-octane, fast-paced thrillers, I highly recommend Juno Rushdan and her books!
Grace’s gut feeling is telling her something isn’t right, and she decided to check on the brunette. That’s when she witnesses the homicide that’s about to take place.
Then, Grace’s worst nightmare has just begun because she just happens to be at the wrong place at the wrong time..
In WYOMING CHRISTMAS STALKER, the Cowboy State Lawmen book 2, the prolific Juno Rushdan, once again, takes you on a dynamic ride that is jam-packed with actions with a pinch of romance, that would send you heart-racing all the way to the end.
If you enjoy high-octane, fast-paced thrillers, I highly recommend Juno Rushdan and her books!
November 16, 2022
For you Rushdan fans, this is one you will absolutely not want to miss. Grace Clark was simply in the wrong place at the wrong time with the right man, Holden Powell to protect her. Follow the story line through a witnessed murder to a scary stalker to find out the very surprising ending. Warning: once you open the book and read the first page, you will not want to put it down until the very last word on the very last page. Can't wait to read the next installment in this very entertaining series. Thank you, Juno Rushdan, for sharing your writing talents with so many of us.
November 28, 2022
Wyoming Christmas Stalker is the second book in of the Cowboy State Lawmen Series by Juno Rushdan. Chief deputy sheriff Holden Powell was a minor character in book one so it was great to see that he has his own HEA in this book. However, it is one that almost didn’t happen. What a surprise to meet who he has fallen for in this story. Grace Clark’s brother is the sheriff. He has given Holden the benefit of the doubt about corrupt (told about but not part of the first book) Holden still feels he must always toe the line. Dating the sheriff’s sister would cross that line big time.
I liked these characters. They had doubts, had been misjudged but overall they were trying to live above the negative in their lives. There is more than one suspect so I have learned that in a Rushdan book the obvious is usually not the villain. Such as was the case this time with a twist that you never see coming. The clues are there but until the connection is made, they don’t seem important. Of course, those signs certainly are important.
An enjoyable book that could be read without having read the first book. Both books stand firmly on their own. If you enjoy romantic suspense then this is an author to put on you TBR List, staring with Wyoming Christmas Stalker.
An ARC of the book was provided by the publisher through NetGalley which I voluntarily chose to read and reviewed. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I liked these characters. They had doubts, had been misjudged but overall they were trying to live above the negative in their lives. There is more than one suspect so I have learned that in a Rushdan book the obvious is usually not the villain. Such as was the case this time with a twist that you never see coming. The clues are there but until the connection is made, they don’t seem important. Of course, those signs certainly are important.
An enjoyable book that could be read without having read the first book. Both books stand firmly on their own. If you enjoy romantic suspense then this is an author to put on you TBR List, staring with Wyoming Christmas Stalker.
An ARC of the book was provided by the publisher through NetGalley which I voluntarily chose to read and reviewed. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
February 4, 2025
Harlequin Intrigue (Holidays 2022)
Series: Cowboy State Lawman: Duty and Honor #2
Quick Thoughts: Grace Clark is a newcomer to Laramie, WY and she witnesses a crime which has suspected ties to a violent motorcycle club. Holden Powell is a Laramie chief deputy sheriff with a terrible crush on Grace and a cloud of suspicion hanging over his head for things he did not do. When Grace is put in danger by doing a little too much amateur sleuthing to solve a young cult member’s murder, Holden must put aside his romantic feelings to keep Grace safe.
Not my favorite of this particular series, mostly because the stakes for their relationship aren’t as high being a friends-to-lovers dynamic. The thriller/suspense side is also not as amped up as other books.
Overall Verdict: An okay read.
______
LEO: MMC is in the sheriffs office. Discussion of previous significant police corruption that the MMC was not part of happens.
Setting: Wyoming, in/around Laramie
BIPOC Characters: yes, FMC is a woman of color
Steam/Spice Level: somewhat fade to black, not particularly steamy
Series: Cowboy State Lawman: Duty and Honor #2
Quick Thoughts: Grace Clark is a newcomer to Laramie, WY and she witnesses a crime which has suspected ties to a violent motorcycle club. Holden Powell is a Laramie chief deputy sheriff with a terrible crush on Grace and a cloud of suspicion hanging over his head for things he did not do. When Grace is put in danger by doing a little too much amateur sleuthing to solve a young cult member’s murder, Holden must put aside his romantic feelings to keep Grace safe.
Not my favorite of this particular series, mostly because the stakes for their relationship aren’t as high being a friends-to-lovers dynamic. The thriller/suspense side is also not as amped up as other books.
Overall Verdict: An okay read.
______
LEO: MMC is in the sheriffs office. Discussion of previous significant police corruption that the MMC was not part of happens.
Setting: Wyoming, in/around Laramie
BIPOC Characters: yes, FMC is a woman of color
Steam/Spice Level: somewhat fade to black, not particularly steamy
December 24, 2022
Book: Wyoming Christmas Stalker
Author: Juno Rushdan
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Genre: Romantic Christmas Suspense
Spice Level: 🌶️
Pub Date: November 29th, 2022
Tropes: Men in Uniform
Pages: 256
This is the second book in the Cowboy State Lawmen Series, it follows Chief Deputy Holden Powell from the first book and Grace Clark who’s been in town just over 6 months trying to escape her overbearing mother and ex boyfriend. After she accidentally witnesses a murder she inadvertently ends up in the middle of the world of motorcycle gangs and cults. While Sheriff Daniel Clark is out of town on vacation it’s up to Holden to determine what’s got this peaceful western town turned upside down before Christmas. The rancher turned lawman has something to prove and he won’t let anything stand in his way.
I really enjoyed this second book, it had some good twist and turns and keeps you guessing in every chapter. Can’t wait to get my hands on book 3!
Author: Juno Rushdan
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Genre: Romantic Christmas Suspense
Spice Level: 🌶️
Pub Date: November 29th, 2022
Tropes: Men in Uniform
Pages: 256
This is the second book in the Cowboy State Lawmen Series, it follows Chief Deputy Holden Powell from the first book and Grace Clark who’s been in town just over 6 months trying to escape her overbearing mother and ex boyfriend. After she accidentally witnesses a murder she inadvertently ends up in the middle of the world of motorcycle gangs and cults. While Sheriff Daniel Clark is out of town on vacation it’s up to Holden to determine what’s got this peaceful western town turned upside down before Christmas. The rancher turned lawman has something to prove and he won’t let anything stand in his way.
I really enjoyed this second book, it had some good twist and turns and keeps you guessing in every chapter. Can’t wait to get my hands on book 3!
November 15, 2022
** 3 1/2 stars **
Next up in the series is Grace and Holden.
Both are trying to escape the past and prove to everyone (and themselves) they are strong, honest, and worthy. When danger comes for Grace, that foundation they both started to build, starts to crumble.
Sometimes it takes starting over to really see what is meant to be. Even though Holden is a literal hero, Grace is no wallflower. I think lessons could be learned from her character. She fights to the bitter end and never gives up.
Even without the air of danger, this was a sweet story of second chances. Second chance at love and life. I will say I was surprised at the reveal of the killer. I totally fell for the obvious suspect.
I voluntarily read and reviewed and ARC of this book.
Next up in the series is Grace and Holden.
Both are trying to escape the past and prove to everyone (and themselves) they are strong, honest, and worthy. When danger comes for Grace, that foundation they both started to build, starts to crumble.
Sometimes it takes starting over to really see what is meant to be. Even though Holden is a literal hero, Grace is no wallflower. I think lessons could be learned from her character. She fights to the bitter end and never gives up.
Even without the air of danger, this was a sweet story of second chances. Second chance at love and life. I will say I was surprised at the reveal of the killer. I totally fell for the obvious suspect.
I voluntarily read and reviewed and ARC of this book.
February 7, 2023
This is my first read by this author, but it wont be my last. I enjoyed the mystery, and it kept me turning the page. Unfortunately, I found the push/pull behind our couple a little lackluster. We kissed, slept in the same bed, and spend a weird amount of time together, but that doesn't mean we like each other. Wake up, people, sheesh. Also their is a cult aspect that's not fully utilized either. However, I can't say I wasn't emotionally invested in this one. The MC aspect triggered me to no end as I raved against the notion that good people couldn't do what's right no matter the consequences. That it was good people looking away that allowed gangs like this to terrorize the world for decades. I needed to see some sort of justice, and by the end, I was pleasantly surprised. A good read.
November 18, 2022
Chief Deputy Sheriff Holden Powell has been attracted to the sheriff's sister Grace since she arrived in town. When Grace witnesses a murder, Holden is concerned about her safety. That might not be the only danger that Grace faces. I received a free copy of this ebook from the author. This is my honest and voluntarily given review. Even though Holden is concerned about how fearless and independent Grace is, I like seeing such a strong woman character. I also like seeing how honorable and caring that Holden is. The mystery of who the murderer is and who is behind the different threats Grace kept me guessing.
November 30, 2022
This is the second book in the Cowboy State Lawmen series and it can be read as a standalone. Grace escapes her mother's control by moving to Wyoming and working in a local bar. One night as she was closing up Grace witnessed a murder which threw her life into chaos. She forms a close relationship with Deputy Holden Powell and he is determined to protect her. He believes that he's broken and she doesn't think that she needs anyone else in her life (they are both wrong, but they figure it out). I absolutely love this book and I love that I didn't really know who the bad guys were until the end. This book has suspense, action, romance, and wonderful characters.
November 23, 2022
This is book two and is certainly a standalone. It's between Grace and Holden. Grace witnessed a homicide and Holden is the deputy sheriff handling the case. It's a fast paced story that will reel you right in from the beginning. Grace, is a strong willed character. Almost too much so where she put herself in danger without really thinking through consequences. For both though, it's more of a fresh start second chance romance. An enjoyable read nonetheless. I received an advanced copy and I'm leaving this review voluntarily.
November 29, 2022
She was a California girl, now trying to get use to a storm in Wyoming.
Late at night and in closing she sees a quarrel happening across the alley way.
She became a witness to murder, gangs, and a cult that the girl was from.
A small town preparing for Christmas, will she be able to able to enjoy the holidays.
A good series and readers will enjoy this new one.
Given ARC for my voluntary review and my honest opinion
Late at night and in closing she sees a quarrel happening across the alley way.
She became a witness to murder, gangs, and a cult that the girl was from.
A small town preparing for Christmas, will she be able to able to enjoy the holidays.
A good series and readers will enjoy this new one.
Given ARC for my voluntary review and my honest opinion
April 15, 2023
“My mom says I’m a lodestone for trouble.”pg 102
But she’s his kind of trouble. Mix up a cult, a motorcycle gang and a man intent on driving her out of her home and you’ve barely scratched the surface on what is actually happening in Grace’s world as she tries to start a new life in Wyoming away from her supermodel mother and a bad romantic choice. She takes us and Holden, the disgraced deputy sheriff, on a wild ride and you don’t want to miss it!
But she’s his kind of trouble. Mix up a cult, a motorcycle gang and a man intent on driving her out of her home and you’ve barely scratched the surface on what is actually happening in Grace’s world as she tries to start a new life in Wyoming away from her supermodel mother and a bad romantic choice. She takes us and Holden, the disgraced deputy sheriff, on a wild ride and you don’t want to miss it!
October 16, 2022
Another excellent book by one of my favorite writers. When Grace witnesses a murder her life, is in turmoil. Holden is determined to protect Grace, whether she wants it or not. I have fallen in love with this new series and would definitely recommend it to others. I received an ARC from the author in exchange for my fair and honest review.
November 30, 2022
ARC review. Juno Rushdan’s Wyoming Christmas Stalker is definitely a 5 star read. The storyline is another intense action and suspense read that I’ve come to expect from Juno. Holden and Grace connect to offer the HEA romance that I love making this a book I’ll look forward to rereading in the future when the rest of the series is finished🤗
May 25, 2023
This book was a good mystery. In fact there were three solutions good romance and family(mostly children and parents). The book shows how to love someone enough to risk your life for them. The characters are believable. You find yourself wanting to know what comes next and meet more Powells. I hope there is another in this series.
December 16, 2023
I really enjoyed this romantic suspense story! Holden is a great hero when Grace witnesses a brutal murder and is thrust into a world with motorcycle gangs and is totally out of her element! I would be too! Holden is the lawman in town and is taken with Grace from the start. I loved all the danger and there is, of course, a LOT of action - my cup of tea!!!
November 11, 2022
I couldn’t wait to read this book. It was great. I’m super sad I have to wait for the next one! I love all of the suspense and drama and different things included in this book.
I received an ARC of this book and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
I received an ARC of this book and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
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