Jilted Hero: Hometown Heroes A-Z

Born in Texas #10

by Jo Grafford

A big-city attorney trying to solve a cold case that’s haunted him for years. Unfortunately, his search leads him to the same small town where the first woman who jilted him lives. And the second woman who jilted him…

Chandler Coben’s love life is like a sad country song on repeat:

Boy meets the girl.
Boy gets the girl.
Boy loses the girl.

He blames his twice broken heart on his high-powered career — all the client appointments that run overtime and the endless hours he spends in the courtroom. Oh, and the fact that his uncle tried to frame him for a crime he didn’t commit in the attempt to steal the company of the last woman he was dating. Yeah, that didn’t exactly fan the flames of romance.

Though Chandler has zero interest in reopening old wounds, he always follows the clues where they lead. And right now, they’re leading to the doorstep of his first love, the same woman he promised would never hear from him again unless she specifically asked.

Imagine his surprise when his phone rings in the middle of the night, and it’s her.

★ BORN IN TEXAS is a series of faith-filled romantic suspense stories about small town, everyday heroes. WARNING: Lots of heart, plenty of humor, and always a happily-ever-after!

Genres: Romance, Second Chance, Mystery Thriller

222 pages, Kindle Edition

Published September 16, 2022

About the author

Jo is an Amazon bestselling author of heartwarming cowboy romantic suspense stories, with a few Texas-sized detours into humor.

Join Cuppa Jo Readers at https://www.facebook.com/groups/Cuppa.... Join her newsletter at https://www.JoGrafford.com.

Jo also writes clean western historical romance and cozy mysteries as Jovie Grace.

Reviews

[Valri Western · Rating 5 out of 5]

We've met these characters before in previous stories, briefly, but now they get their own story and it's great! There were moments of a little confusion for me trying to keep all the secondary characters straight and different companies straight - who was who and what was what - but all in all, a fantastic romantic suspense! Fleshing out the bad guys was never so exhausting! Lane never quite got over loving her ex-fiancé, Chandler, but after 5 years, she calls him only to lose him when he gets blown up from a bomb - or does he? A crazy illegal adoption ring which is ruthless, companies that stop at nothing to ruin people and people falsely imprisoned - this story has so much going on, you can't possibly put it down for a second for fear you might miss something! Chandler realizes his career as a high-powered lawyer has taken over his life but after two failed relationships and being framed for a crime he didn't commit has taken all the joy out of his life. He'd do anything to get Lane back! When the opportunity arises, he'll stop at nothing to keep her safe and take down the villain once and for all.

[Karen · Rating 5 out of 5]

I highly recommend this book by Jo Grafford if you enjoy romantic suspense and wonderful characters. Chandler is a Dallas attorney who was engaged five years ago to Lane who owns a small town diner. Lane broke off the engagement when Chandler lost the case while representing her parents and they went to jail. They never stopped loving each other. When Lane calls Chandler to come help her, a helicopter alerts him that he is being followed. When he hides under an overpass and finds a tracker on his vehicle, he is running away when his vehicle explodes and everyone including Lane thinks he is dead since he hasn't been seen for eight months. When he shows up at Lane's diner with FBI agent Nick, they explain to Lane what happened. They put a plan in place to prove that Lane's brother, Jude, is the one who embezzled the money and to prove her parents are innocent. Working together at the diner brings Lane and Chandler back together. I enjoyed the high action drama and the antics of Nick and it is a satisfying clean read with a HEA ending. I received an ARC and this is my voluntary and honest review.

[Mary · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jilted Hero is a story for anyone that loves suspense, intrigue, and a look into a criminal enterprise that sounds futuristic. A orphan home that turned out to actually be a front where the owners raised, brainwashed, and groomed homeless boys and girls to eventually become corporate spies for Oblivion. This orphanage had made billions before being caught. The head of the criminal organization was a man that as a young boy was adopted by a family from Herford. His name was Jude who had one of the highest IQ's known. He had been adopted by the Westfields and later on came a sister named Lane. The parent's had been arrested for embezzlement and their lawyer was their daughter Lane's fiance Chandler. When they went to jail Lane broke off her engagement to Chandler. But Chandler had never stopped throwing kinks into Oblivion's buyout schemes. But as long as Jude is free trouble will follow.

As Chandler and Lane grow closer together again they find out news that will fill them both will questions. The FBI wants Jude caught now. So they set a trap to do just that.

I received an advanced copy of this book for my honest review.

[Sharon Grow · Rating 4 out of 5]

After attorney Chandler Coben was unable to keep Lane Westfield’s parents out of jail, he knew that he would lose the love of his life. She pushed him away and he never thought that he would hear from her again, but now she needs his help. The feds are searching for Lane’s brother, Jude, who may be involved with a group called Oblivion. Oblivion may be responsible for the death of Chandler’s uncle as well as the illegal adoption of children. As Lane and Chandler work together, they slowly reclaim the love that they once shared. Can he find the evidence he needs to prove that her parents are innocent? If so, there is still a threat from her brother, or is he really a threat? Romance, suspense and the visit from past characters makes this an entertaining addition to this series. I received an advance review copy at no cost and without obligation, from the author, for an honest review. (paytonpuppy)

[Kathy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Chandler and Lane were engaged when as an attorney he represented her parents in court. When he lost the case and they went to jail Lane dumped him, so he went back to his big city law firm and she opened up a diner in her small town.
It's now 5 yrs later when she calls Chandler saying she need help. On the way to see her he is chased and his car blown up. Thinking he is dead Lane is shocked to see him 8 months later. He is now working to help the FBI catch her brother. Chandler thinks her parents are taking the fall for her brother and needs to find the truth to set her parents free. Can Lane get over her hurt feelings to work with Chandler and FBI agent Nick.
They were some unusual twists and turns that really kept my attention.
Would love to see more of Nick, he was a real interesting person.

[Jacquie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Book 10 in the Born in Texas series continues the investigation that has been ongoing in the last few books with the criminal organization Oblivion. In this book we have Lane, the diner owner we have previously met and gotten to know and Chandler who we did not like in the previous books. He played an excellent evil ex-fiancé until his name was cleared of the crimes he was set up for. Now they are both in trouble in the book.

This book definitely had the most twists and turns and surprise reveals of any of the books so far. It was interesting and kept me guessing. They also set up some future storylines so I am interested to read how those pan out.

“So what do I do?” “It’s the easiest thing you’ll ever do, my friend, and the hardest.” Jeremy stood. “It’s a Biblical truth. When you’ve done everything else you can do, you stand your ground.”

[Beverly Dibble · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely loved Chandler and Lane together! When I first realized that Chandler was going to be one of the Heroes in this series, I questioned how that would work. He had been in an earlier book, and he did not come across as hero material. However, knowing that Jo Grafford is an excellent writer, I was convinced that she could pull it off and do it well. And she did. Chandler immediately took on hero status in my eyes and redeemed himself right from the beginning. It helped to have more of the facts and to see things from his perspective. Lane was feisty and a good match for Chandler. I enjoyed the fact that they could work well together through their difficulties. Another great book!

[Marie · Rating 4 out of 5]

'Very, very worth it!'

Aaah! A second chance for first love, a love that never died but was ripped apart viciously and left them both bleeding out and running for cover.
Once again the same malevolent forces have targeted Lane and Chandler, but this time Chandler is ready for them and will stop at nothing to keep her safe and win her heart, he is not a man who fails and Lane matters....she is the only one who matters.
We have met Chandler briefly earlier in the series but here we get to know him better and honestly the more we see, the more he charms you. He is thoughtful, compassionate, funny, determined and driven but he can also be ruthless when needed and is not afraid to ask for help....is he the perfect man?
I read this on Kindle Unlimited

[Joyce Marion · Rating 5 out of 5]

Chandler is a big city attorney trying to do the right thing. His uncle set him up to take a fall, but he was able to provide evidence that he was framed. Through this, he got the reputation of being a less-than-honest attorney.

Chandler was engaged to Lane, but when her parents were framed for embezzlement, he was unable to get them off. They broke up, but they never forgot each other.

Now Lane is in trouble and Chandler will do anything to protect her.

I read the previous book where Chandler was framed. I didn't think I would like him, but when you hear his side of the story and all he's been through, it makes you realize that you can't always judge people by what they've been through. On the edge of your seat book! Highly recommend!

[Noreen Hussain · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jilted hero is Chandler and Lane's story,they have both appeared in a couple of previous books and finally their story is here.
Chandler gets a lead on a case which he worked on a while ago and it leads him to the small-town where both his ex-fiance's are living in and have been targeted by the criminals who he wants to bring to Justice.
Lane Westfield has tried to forget Chandler,but when he comes into town,she realizes she still loves him.
They get into a fake relationship to try to catch the criminals and bring them to justice.Along the way their feelings get in the way.
Another good book by Jo With lots of secrets,twists and surprises along the way,you will not be able to put it down.
I recieved an ARC of this book by the author and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Trudy Cordle · Rating 5 out of 5]

Chandler lost Lane five years ago by putting his work before her, and for not finding loopholes to help her parents. He's promised to never reach out to her. When she calls him out of the blue one night, he doesn't hesitate to come to her aid. When he shows up eight months later, is it too late in more ways than one?? Will they be able to patch things up, or will they let circumstances continue to keep them from each other? So good!! My absolute favorite parts of the book are Chandler's talks with Jeremy, followed by his moments with Lane. Such a great book!

I received a complimentary copy of this book, was not required to leave a review, and the opinion expressed is my own.

[Texastwang · Rating 5 out of 5]

Chandler Coben has gotten blamed for things he didn't do and his relationships have fallen apart.
I always thought Chandler was getting the raw end of the deal. Now I know why.... interesting twists and turns. I also enjoyed seeing the previous characters intertwined.
You don't have to read previous books to enjoy this one. But it does help to know what has happened. But she gives enough of the backstory to understand it.
With plenty of action, her trademark in her books, her characters find a way to be together AND happy.
I recieved a free copy so that I might tell you what I honestly think. Hope you enjoyed my review. Now go enjoy the book

[Michele Richardson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Chandler and Lane have a very long road filled with secrets and drama. It doesn’t seem anything they think about themselves or anyone else is true anymore. After 5 years apart, Lane calls on Chandler for help. His vehicle blows up and he is presumed dead. His trusty assistant isn’t so trusty and her less than trustworthy, criminal brother seems to have a soft spot for Lane and the secrets come tumbling out from everywhere. This was a great story with action, sweet love and faith. I was happy to see Chandler and Lane get their HEA. We had seen them before and it was tied up nicely!
I received a free copy and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Sandy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Riveting. After a slow start (had difficulties keeping characters and companies straight), the book gained traction and couldn’t put it down. Having been engaged previously, Lane found Chandler waiting in her office with an FBI agent. Shocked to see him alive, and that they were there to protect her from Oblivion, she hired them as a busboy and waiter. Then the fun started with several potentially violent encounters, rekindled love, and trying to outwit a true genius. Highly recommend.

Received ARC and this is my honest review.

[Cindy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Lane’s parents are in jail for something they didn’t commit but confessed to. Chandler was their attorney and Lane broke off their engagement when her parents went to jail. That was 5 years ago. Now Chandler is back in town with disturbing news about Lane’s brother, Jude, and what his role may have been. Read the book to find out how it all ties together and if Chandler and Lane get a second chance. These books start with Accidental Hero and proceed through the alphabet. The characters often reappear in other books, so reading them in order adds to the enjoyment.

[MerryMe · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was another great book from Jo. Chandler and Lane have already been introduced, but their characters are developed a lot more and we learn more about Chandler's connection to Oblivion. As usual, Jo weaves a great romantic story but adds a lot of suspense and surprising twists and turns throughout to make it another page turner that's hard to put down. While it's more enjoyable after reading her other books, it is also fine as a standalone book.

I received an advanced copy of this book and this is my honest review freely given.

[Roberta aka Bobbie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed this clean, inspirational and suspenseful addition to the Born in Texas: Hometown Heroes A-Z series. Each book is a stand-alone but different characters have appeared in more than one book. I haven't read some of the first books but that didn't detract from Jilted Hero. I recommend this book for the suspenseful twists and turns as well as the romantic reunion between Chandler and Lane that leads to their happily-ever-after.

I was given an ARC of this book from the author but this review is my honest opinion, given voluntarily.

[Denise Boldt · Rating 4 out of 5]

Jilted Hero is a heart warming romantic suspense story that expands on the characters introduced in Book 1, Accidental Hero, and more currently expands on the storyline starting in Book 7, Guardian Hero. Grafford’s written with a twist of antagonist to protagonist and it’s a fun read. Grafford’s descriptive writing is her superpower. She fills her stories with descriptions of her scenes, characters and moments, which also brings skilful character development and great romance in her relationships.

[Rhondia Cannon · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a thought provoking sweet romantic suspense story. It features multiple characters who are adopted and how this affects their personal perceptions and choices. Some of these characters are much more likable than others, but they all contribute to the story. I felt some liberties were taken with the law enforcement aspects but the tale doesn’t suffer any. I appreciated the insights shared by Preacher Jeremy and how faith was woven into the book.

[Barbara · Rating 5 out of 5]

Family Drama

This story is filled with drama! How can one character have so many sides that this reader felt pulled and drawn? Excellent writing! I wanted to hate,love and pray for his redemption. Although aside character, kinda, his story weaves throughout the main couples' strife to reunite and struggle against the odds. Jilted brings justice and love but also maybe family redemption.

[Bernadette Cinkoske · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Jilted Hero is clean, heart stopping romantic suspense at its best! Before you start to read this well written, fast paced, edge of your seat suspense book, clear your schedule because nothing else is going to get done until you reach the end. This is a great romance, but the tension and suspense will have your heart racing. I love Chandler and Lane's story. Ms. Grafford tells an amazing tale!

[Lori R · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jilted Hero was an interesting story full of fast paced drama that quickly made me want to read to the end of the book. I really enjoyed the romantic suspense and the twists and turns in this book. I especially liked the sexy lawyer, Chandler. I received an advance copy of this book and I willingly chose to write an honest review.

[Bonny Rambarran · Rating 5 out of 5]

He goes to rescue his old girlfriend — and the car blows up on the way!!!
Everyone thinks he is dead — and when he shows up years later — surprise surprise. Of course he is trying to keep on the hush because they never did find out who did it!!! THIS is a great story totally loved it. I received a copy of this book from the publisher. All thoughts and comments are my own.

[Patricia Baxes · Rating 5 out of 5]

These Hometown Heroes books continue to be amazing!

Once again we have an incredible read from Jo Grafford. The storyline is awesome; the characters delightful—even the bad ones; the plot twists are amazing; and the HEA is off the charts! You definitely need to get this book today!

[Lucia Valenzuela · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow, I absolutely did not anticipate this storyline. Chandler and Lane get a second chance to get things right. Even Jude surprised me. Great story with recurring, wonderful characters. I really enjoyed reading it.
I received a complimentary copy of this book and this is my voluntary, honest review.

[Suzanne Tidwell · Rating 4 out of 5]

Short and Sweet

One nice thing about the Born in Texas series is that they are short and Sweet. Another good thing is the guarantee of a happily ever after. It's those HEA's that keep me coming back. There is also a progression of the linked stories to look forward to, with familiar characters and somewhat connected plots.

[Bonnie Theel · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book. There is enough suspense to keep you turning the pages to find out what's going to happen next. It has wonderful characters.

I received a free ARC, and this is my honest opinion.

[Mary Jane McLeod · Rating 5 out of 5]

Really Great Series

I'm so enjoying this series and getting to know all the characters. It's great when characters from previous books show up. I loved Lane and Chandler's story. These two were engaged 5 years previously but things got in the way. A great second chance romance.

[Margie · Rating 5 out of 5]

There are times when I worry about Jo Grafford’s mind and the storylines she can think up and other times when I realize she is really brilliant. I’m not really sure which category this falls in but I stayed up and read this book from start to finish with NO break. I had to know what was happening. I always expect interesting and often unusual stories from Jo and she did not disappoint. I laughed, cried and nearly prayed with this one. I loved Chandler, Lane, Nick and even Jude. This is a definite need to read book.

[Pat · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am so impressed with Ms. Grafford's ability to spin a story. This mystery with Chandler, Lane & her renegade brother, Jude is thrilling & unbelievable. The twists & turns I never expected. I am enjoying this series greatly. I received an advance copy. This is my voluntary review.