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Tucker Snow #1
Hard Country
There is no peace in the hard country
Tucker Snow is as tough as they come, hardened by decades working as an undercover narcotics agent for the Texas Department of Public Safety. Through special dispensation from the governor, he and his brother Harley cut a wide swath through the criminal element of Northeast Texas. But tragedy comes calling after taking a dream job as a special ranger with the Texas and Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association, when Tucker's wife and toddler are killed in a horrific traffic accident caused by a drug-addled felon. Close to breaking, Tucker sets his badge aside to move his surviving teenage daughter outside of Ganther Bluff, a quiet town with enough room for them to mourn their unexpected loss.
But peace doesn't last long for a man like Tucker Snow. Instead of settling into small-town life to heal from such an unimaginable loss, a fresh kind of hell hits them with full force.
Crimes and secrets strangle this rural community, and when a new form of meth with the street name of gravel gets too close to home, it's enough for Tucker to put his badge back on and call Harley for help. The town will ultimately be better off with him as a resident lawman, but this unforgiving landscape will threaten everything Tucker holds dear.
Tucker Snow is as tough as they come, hardened by decades working as an undercover narcotics agent for the Texas Department of Public Safety. Through special dispensation from the governor, he and his brother Harley cut a wide swath through the criminal element of Northeast Texas. But tragedy comes calling after taking a dream job as a special ranger with the Texas and Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association, when Tucker's wife and toddler are killed in a horrific traffic accident caused by a drug-addled felon. Close to breaking, Tucker sets his badge aside to move his surviving teenage daughter outside of Ganther Bluff, a quiet town with enough room for them to mourn their unexpected loss.
But peace doesn't last long for a man like Tucker Snow. Instead of settling into small-town life to heal from such an unimaginable loss, a fresh kind of hell hits them with full force.
Crimes and secrets strangle this rural community, and when a new form of meth with the street name of gravel gets too close to home, it's enough for Tucker to put his badge back on and call Harley for help. The town will ultimately be better off with him as a resident lawman, but this unforgiving landscape will threaten everything Tucker holds dear.
386 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2023
49 people are currently reading
3405 people want to read
About the author
Reavis Z. Wortham
23 books238 followersReavis Z. Wortham retired in 2011 and now works harder than before as the author of the critically acclaimed Red River historical mystery series. Kirkus Reviews listed his first novel, The Rock Hole, as one of their Top 12 Mysteries of 2011. True West Magazine included Dark Places as one of 2015’s Top 12 Modern Westerns. The Providence Journal writes, “This year's Unraveled is a hidden gem of a book that reads like Craig Johnson's Longmire on steroids.” Wortham’s new high octane contemporary thriller from Kensington Publishing, Hawke's Prey, featuring Texas Ranger Sonny Hawke was released in June, 2017.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 74 reviews
July 27, 2023
Plenty of action and suspense along with fantastic characters and a well-written plot make this novel a must read for those who love thrillers. Tucker Snow and his daughter Chloe have recently relocated to Ganther Bluff, Texas from the Dallas area. Tucker’s wife Sara Beth and their four-year-old daughter Peyton died in a car wreck caused by someone on drugs.
Tucker and his brother Harley worked as uncover narcotics agents for the Texas Department of Public Safety for decades. However, Tucker had taken his dream job as a special ranger with the Texas and Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association before the accident. He’s now on leave.
However, Tucker and Chloe’s peace is shattered; first by arguing heard nearby, then by gunshots from two different guns. Tucker goes to the nearby trailer to make sure everyone is okay. This puts him on the radar of Jess Atchley who doesn’t like any type of law enforcement officer. On top of this, there are cars in and out of the trailer’s driveway day and night. As events escalate, Tucker goes back on active duty and calls Harley for help.
The characterization is well-done in this novel. Tucker is experiencing grief and loss. He is somewhat cautious, at least compared to Harley. Chloe is feeling lost and uprooted. However, she is trying to be understanding of her father’s feelings. The characters brimmed with personality. I am looking forward to the returning characters’ continued development in the next book in the series.
Many of the antagonists are known early in the book. However, it is the action-packed journey filled with suspense that kept me turning the pages. It was a wild ride with sudden moments of danger. The author also brings a strong sense of place to the events in the book. The writing is descriptive without slowing down the vivid and action-filled plot. I could easily visualize the town, the people, and the countryside. Themes include grief, murder, assault, drugs, family, friendship, corruption, and much more. At the end of the book is an author’s note that should be read. It includes his comment that he stretched legal boundaries in this book to make the story more interesting. There is also a reading group guide and a conversation with the author section.
Overall, this riveting story arc immediately grabbed my attention and kept me engaged throughout the book. This is book one in the Tucker Snow thrillers series. I can’t wait to read the next book. Those who like action-packed crime thrillers will likely enjoy this novel. I’ve only read one other book by this author and it was a historical fiction crime thriller that was also excellent: The Texas Job.
Poisoned Pen Press and Reavis Z. Wortham provided a complimentary digital ARC of this novel via Net Galley. All opinions expressed in this review are my own. Publication date is currently set for August 02, 2023. This review was originally posted at Mystery and Suspense Magazine.
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My 4.41 rounded to 4 stars review is coming soon.
Tucker and his brother Harley worked as uncover narcotics agents for the Texas Department of Public Safety for decades. However, Tucker had taken his dream job as a special ranger with the Texas and Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association before the accident. He’s now on leave.
However, Tucker and Chloe’s peace is shattered; first by arguing heard nearby, then by gunshots from two different guns. Tucker goes to the nearby trailer to make sure everyone is okay. This puts him on the radar of Jess Atchley who doesn’t like any type of law enforcement officer. On top of this, there are cars in and out of the trailer’s driveway day and night. As events escalate, Tucker goes back on active duty and calls Harley for help.
The characterization is well-done in this novel. Tucker is experiencing grief and loss. He is somewhat cautious, at least compared to Harley. Chloe is feeling lost and uprooted. However, she is trying to be understanding of her father’s feelings. The characters brimmed with personality. I am looking forward to the returning characters’ continued development in the next book in the series.
Many of the antagonists are known early in the book. However, it is the action-packed journey filled with suspense that kept me turning the pages. It was a wild ride with sudden moments of danger. The author also brings a strong sense of place to the events in the book. The writing is descriptive without slowing down the vivid and action-filled plot. I could easily visualize the town, the people, and the countryside. Themes include grief, murder, assault, drugs, family, friendship, corruption, and much more. At the end of the book is an author’s note that should be read. It includes his comment that he stretched legal boundaries in this book to make the story more interesting. There is also a reading group guide and a conversation with the author section.
Overall, this riveting story arc immediately grabbed my attention and kept me engaged throughout the book. This is book one in the Tucker Snow thrillers series. I can’t wait to read the next book. Those who like action-packed crime thrillers will likely enjoy this novel. I’ve only read one other book by this author and it was a historical fiction crime thriller that was also excellent: The Texas Job.
Poisoned Pen Press and Reavis Z. Wortham provided a complimentary digital ARC of this novel via Net Galley. All opinions expressed in this review are my own. Publication date is currently set for August 02, 2023. This review was originally posted at Mystery and Suspense Magazine.
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My 4.41 rounded to 4 stars review is coming soon.
September 4, 2023
4.5⭐
A promising new series!
Hard Country grabs my attention from the start and I find myself listening to this excellent police thriller not wanting it to be over.
Tucker Snow takes extended time off as a special agent for the Texas & Southwestern Cattle Raiser Association after a family tragedy. With his teen daughter Chloe, they moved to a ranch outside small town Ganther Bluff.
While enjoying morning coffee on his porch, Tucker heard a dispute from his neighbor's trailer home across the road followed by a gunfight. He hasn't introduced himself just yet but decides to go over to see if things are okay. Turns out the neighbors aren't happy to have "the law" living next door.
What follows is a gripping police procedural on crime and drugs. The villains are known from the beginning and it's more cat-and-mouse fast-paced thriller. The characters are believable and Tucker brought his retired narcotics agent brother, Harley to help. Double the excitement!
Don't miss this superb audiobook with narration by Eric G. Dove. I think fans of Joe Pickett or Virgil Flowers will enjoy this book. This is my first novel by Reavis Z. Wortham and I'm a fan! I love the characters, his writing, and the setting. I almost can hear the bird calls, feel the autumn breeze, and picture the vibrant foliage in northeast Texas hills.🤠🍂
Thank you Dreamscape Media and Netgalley for my ALC.
A promising new series!
Hard Country grabs my attention from the start and I find myself listening to this excellent police thriller not wanting it to be over.
Tucker Snow takes extended time off as a special agent for the Texas & Southwestern Cattle Raiser Association after a family tragedy. With his teen daughter Chloe, they moved to a ranch outside small town Ganther Bluff.
While enjoying morning coffee on his porch, Tucker heard a dispute from his neighbor's trailer home across the road followed by a gunfight. He hasn't introduced himself just yet but decides to go over to see if things are okay. Turns out the neighbors aren't happy to have "the law" living next door.
What follows is a gripping police procedural on crime and drugs. The villains are known from the beginning and it's more cat-and-mouse fast-paced thriller. The characters are believable and Tucker brought his retired narcotics agent brother, Harley to help. Double the excitement!
Don't miss this superb audiobook with narration by Eric G. Dove. I think fans of Joe Pickett or Virgil Flowers will enjoy this book. This is my first novel by Reavis Z. Wortham and I'm a fan! I love the characters, his writing, and the setting. I almost can hear the bird calls, feel the autumn breeze, and picture the vibrant foliage in northeast Texas hills.🤠🍂
Thank you Dreamscape Media and Netgalley for my ALC.
June 30, 2023
Exciting, unique, and a great team bringing the action.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
I love finding books that fly beneath the radar sometimes, especially when it turns out to be fantastic! This author has developed a unique plot that is so totally realistic, it begs you to keep reading.
I love the way the author set up the character structure. Two brothers teaming up with similar jobs in law enforcement to handle suspicious neighbor activity that becomes not only targeted major crimes but just downright mean.
Wortham writes with clarity and a vision so bright that you feel you’re a part of the story and just hanging on for dear life on this wild ride.
The main character, Tucker Snow, is brilliantly developed with heart, a high level of protection, dry wit, and an innate sense of duty. He seems kind-hearted, but don’t get on the wrong side of him or his brother!
Hard Country was a fabulous surprise. Exciting, with perfect pacing, and the escalation of suspense made this a read I won’t forget!
* copy received for review consideration
* full review - https://amidlifewife.com/hard-country...
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
I love finding books that fly beneath the radar sometimes, especially when it turns out to be fantastic! This author has developed a unique plot that is so totally realistic, it begs you to keep reading.
I love the way the author set up the character structure. Two brothers teaming up with similar jobs in law enforcement to handle suspicious neighbor activity that becomes not only targeted major crimes but just downright mean.
Wortham writes with clarity and a vision so bright that you feel you’re a part of the story and just hanging on for dear life on this wild ride.
The main character, Tucker Snow, is brilliantly developed with heart, a high level of protection, dry wit, and an innate sense of duty. He seems kind-hearted, but don’t get on the wrong side of him or his brother!
Hard Country was a fabulous surprise. Exciting, with perfect pacing, and the escalation of suspense made this a read I won’t forget!
* copy received for review consideration
* full review - https://amidlifewife.com/hard-country...
October 20, 2023
Reavis Wortham has given us one hell of an action packed adventure with his latest book, Hard Country. Tucker Snow, the main character, is lawful good, and his brother Harley is chaotic good. Together they’re an unbeatable renegade team that wipes out lots and lots of characters who are chaotic evil.
Everyone in this story carries at least one gun, and there’s a new shootout every five pages. It fits the stereotype of Texas and confirms my decision to never go there. It makes for exciting reading though.
The one thing I really disliked about the way this book was written is the constant switching between first person and third person narrative. It was jarring. Also, Wortham has favorite cliche phrases that he uses over and over again: “that spoke volumes,” and “after he did that, he could finally relax.”
Despite my irritation with some of the writing style, I did find myself pulled back into the narrative and staying up late at night to finish the story. I’m rating Hard Country 3.5 stars and I always round up.
I think this novel will be successful as it has a broad appeal. I’m sure anyone who like classic gunslinger movies would really enjoy reading the book.
Thank you Netgalley and Dreamscape Media for giving me a free advanced audio download for review consideration.
Everyone in this story carries at least one gun, and there’s a new shootout every five pages. It fits the stereotype of Texas and confirms my decision to never go there. It makes for exciting reading though.
The one thing I really disliked about the way this book was written is the constant switching between first person and third person narrative. It was jarring. Also, Wortham has favorite cliche phrases that he uses over and over again: “that spoke volumes,” and “after he did that, he could finally relax.”
Despite my irritation with some of the writing style, I did find myself pulled back into the narrative and staying up late at night to finish the story. I’m rating Hard Country 3.5 stars and I always round up.
I think this novel will be successful as it has a broad appeal. I’m sure anyone who like classic gunslinger movies would really enjoy reading the book.
Thank you Netgalley and Dreamscape Media for giving me a free advanced audio download for review consideration.
August 26, 2023
Hard Country (Book and Audiobook Review)
by Reavis Z. Wortham
Narrated by Eric G. Dove
The book's publication date: 02 Aug 2023
Poisoned Pen Press
Audiobook Pub Date: 29 Aug 2023
Dreamscape Media
General Fiction (Adult) | Mystery & Thrillers
Rating 4.5/5
As Hard Country by Reavis Z. Wortham unfolds Tucker Snow has taken a leave from his law enforcement position after his wife and younger daughter were suddenly killed in a car accident. He moved to Gather Bluff, Texas with his teenage daughter Chloe. Despite the tragedy they endured, Tucker was determined to provide a better life for his daughter. He made the brave decision to start fresh in the country. While he hoped to provide a safe and prosperous life for his daughter with this newfound sense of purpose, he unknowingly bought a house up the road from a large drug dealer. With trouble on the horizon, Tucker and his brother Harley tighten up security at his newly acquired home and prepare to legally handle the situation. Can their efforts help identify and stop criminals before someone dies?
Being a native Texan, I am always thrilled to review books set in my home state. Poisoned Pen Press sent me this gorgeous novel through book mail and Dreamscape Media approved me to listen to the audiobook. This is my favorite method of reviewing because I get so much from the story. I was excited to dive into this book and explore Texas through the eyes of the characters and it did not disappoint. The writing is suspenseful and Eric G. Dove did an excellent job with the narration. I was immediately drawn into the story and found myself engrossed in the characters and their struggles as events unfolded. The dialogue was realistic and captured the essence of living in a small Texas town. I highly recommend this book to any reader who loves suspenseful stories set in the Lone Star State.
Thank you Reavis Z. Wortham, Poisoned Pen Press, Dreamscape Media, and Netgalley for sharing this book and audiobook with me. Your kindness is appreciated.
#HardCountry #ReavisZWortham #gifted #bookmail
#tbrbooks #tbrpile #bookaddict #bookreviewer #bookishcommunity #bookstagramcommunity #readingcommunity #Books #bookfriends #booksbooksbooks #booksta #bookstagram #newtobookstagram #bookreview #bookreviews #instabookstagram #bookish #bookishielife #newtoinsta #newtoinstagra #bookmail #netgalleyapprovals #Netgalleyapproval @advancedreaderscopy #tbrbooks #tbrpile #bookaddict #bookreviewer #bookishcommunity #bookstagramcommunity #readingcommunity #books #bookfriends #booksbooksbooks #booksta #bookstagram #newtobookstagram #bookreview #bookreviews #instabookstagram #bookish #
by Reavis Z. Wortham
Narrated by Eric G. Dove
The book's publication date: 02 Aug 2023
Poisoned Pen Press
Audiobook Pub Date: 29 Aug 2023
Dreamscape Media
General Fiction (Adult) | Mystery & Thrillers
Rating 4.5/5
As Hard Country by Reavis Z. Wortham unfolds Tucker Snow has taken a leave from his law enforcement position after his wife and younger daughter were suddenly killed in a car accident. He moved to Gather Bluff, Texas with his teenage daughter Chloe. Despite the tragedy they endured, Tucker was determined to provide a better life for his daughter. He made the brave decision to start fresh in the country. While he hoped to provide a safe and prosperous life for his daughter with this newfound sense of purpose, he unknowingly bought a house up the road from a large drug dealer. With trouble on the horizon, Tucker and his brother Harley tighten up security at his newly acquired home and prepare to legally handle the situation. Can their efforts help identify and stop criminals before someone dies?
Being a native Texan, I am always thrilled to review books set in my home state. Poisoned Pen Press sent me this gorgeous novel through book mail and Dreamscape Media approved me to listen to the audiobook. This is my favorite method of reviewing because I get so much from the story. I was excited to dive into this book and explore Texas through the eyes of the characters and it did not disappoint. The writing is suspenseful and Eric G. Dove did an excellent job with the narration. I was immediately drawn into the story and found myself engrossed in the characters and their struggles as events unfolded. The dialogue was realistic and captured the essence of living in a small Texas town. I highly recommend this book to any reader who loves suspenseful stories set in the Lone Star State.
Thank you Reavis Z. Wortham, Poisoned Pen Press, Dreamscape Media, and Netgalley for sharing this book and audiobook with me. Your kindness is appreciated.
#HardCountry #ReavisZWortham #gifted #bookmail
#tbrbooks #tbrpile #bookaddict #bookreviewer #bookishcommunity #bookstagramcommunity #readingcommunity #Books #bookfriends #booksbooksbooks #booksta #bookstagram #newtobookstagram #bookreview #bookreviews #instabookstagram #bookish #bookishielife #newtoinsta #newtoinstagra #bookmail #netgalleyapprovals #Netgalleyapproval @advancedreaderscopy #tbrbooks #tbrpile #bookaddict #bookreviewer #bookishcommunity #bookstagramcommunity #readingcommunity #books #bookfriends #booksbooksbooks #booksta #bookstagram #newtobookstagram #bookreview #bookreviews #instabookstagram #bookish #
April 26, 2023
I stumbled upon Reavis Z. Wortham many years ago when his Red River series came out and was hooked on his marvelous writing and language from the start. Hard Country is his latest creation and features special agent Tucker Snow. The book is as it should be set in Texas, where else would it be? After a tragedy he and his daughter has just moved into a new house but there's something going on with the neighbour... It is a wild ride from then on. I always recommend Reavis books and this is no exception, I am never disappointed with his work and neither should you be. I always eagerly awaits what will come next from this great author and I always have a good time visiting with his characters. I am most thankful that for once Poisoned pen Press let me have an advance copy and Netgalley for being there.
October 28, 2023
4.25 I really enjoyed this tale of meth dealing drug dealers and the police who thwart them. Very well paced even with the alternating chapters. The audio book narrator, Eric G. Dove, did a great job with his laid-back cowboy style.
October 7, 2023
I just went on a wild adventure with Tucker Snow, special agent of the Texas and Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association and his retired law enforcement brother Harley. I listened to the audiobook and it was gritty and groping from beginning to end. Tucker and his teenage daughter move into a rural home and one day he hears gunshots. When he went to check it out his neighbor didn’t appreciate him nosing around because he is a meth dealer. From there the story is intense as they try to scare Tucker to move. He doesn’t but starts looking into things. There are corrupt officers in the sheriff’s office working against Tucker. There are gunfights with the underbelly lowlifes of the drug dealing industry. His teenage daughter is kidnapped. Will he rescue her in time? There is an exciting conclusion to the book. I gave it 5 stars. This is the first book of a series. I wonder what awaits Tucker Snow.
I want to thank NetGalley and Dreamscape Media for this audiobook and give this review freely.
I want to thank NetGalley and Dreamscape Media for this audiobook and give this review freely.
April 15, 2023
An adrenaline-fueled thriller set in and around a small rural community in Texas where a new type of meth called Gravel is wreaking havoc on the street and threatening to destroy more than one life.
A recent widower and ex undercover narcotic agent Tucker Snow has recently moved to the community with his teenage daughter and lot of still unprocessed grief after his wife and younger daughter had been killed in a fiery car crash caused by a meth addict. But when Tucker's life is threatens by some very messed up drug dealers who happened to be his next door neighbors all hell breaks loose and violence ensues with sinister results...
A gripping thriller, superbly plotted and brilliantly paced, Hard Country is also a very frightening "dance of death" expertly choreographed around an intriguing cast of exquisitely drawn characters.
The writing is very crisp and the emotional narrative searingly raw. It's simply fabulous...
I discovered Mr Wortham in 2022 with his magnificent novel the Texas Job but with this latest fictional treat I honestly do believe that he is one of the best wordsmiths at work today when it comes to American crime fiction!
It really deserves to be discovered and enjoyed without any moderation whatsoever!
Many thanks to Poisoned Pen and Netgalley for this terrific ARC!
A recent widower and ex undercover narcotic agent Tucker Snow has recently moved to the community with his teenage daughter and lot of still unprocessed grief after his wife and younger daughter had been killed in a fiery car crash caused by a meth addict. But when Tucker's life is threatens by some very messed up drug dealers who happened to be his next door neighbors all hell breaks loose and violence ensues with sinister results...
A gripping thriller, superbly plotted and brilliantly paced, Hard Country is also a very frightening "dance of death" expertly choreographed around an intriguing cast of exquisitely drawn characters.
The writing is very crisp and the emotional narrative searingly raw. It's simply fabulous...
I discovered Mr Wortham in 2022 with his magnificent novel the Texas Job but with this latest fictional treat I honestly do believe that he is one of the best wordsmiths at work today when it comes to American crime fiction!
It really deserves to be discovered and enjoyed without any moderation whatsoever!
Many thanks to Poisoned Pen and Netgalley for this terrific ARC!
April 6, 2023
This is my second book from this author and he is now on my list of favorites. The main character here is Tucker Snow, a special agent with the Texas and Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association. Tuck is on personal leave following the deaths of his wife and young son who had been killed in a traffic accident caused by a driver high on a new form of meth, known as “Gravel.” Tuck had worked for many years with his younger brother, Harley, in narcotics. Tuck and his sixteen year old daughter, Chloe, have just moved to a place in the country to relax and recover, but their peace is short lived as they soon learn their neighbor in the rundown trailer across the room is a meth dealer, protected from arrest by family connections. When the guy seeks to drive them away or kill them, Tucker and Harley find themselves working together again to protect their family. This story grabbed me from the start and is filled with great characters and non-stop action. Thanks to Poison Pen Publishers and Net Galley for allowing me to read this ARC in exchange for a review.
February 10, 2025
An action-packed adventure! This book gripped my attention from start to finish.
The story follows Special Agent, Tucker Snow…he just wants a quiet life with his daughter, but the new house they moved into is not what they expected. Surrounded by drugs and corruption, his quiet-life is out of reach. The writing is good, but it does bounce between first and third person, so that got a little annoying.
Overall, I really liked this book and plan to read the second Tucker Snow book!
The story follows Special Agent, Tucker Snow…he just wants a quiet life with his daughter, but the new house they moved into is not what they expected. Surrounded by drugs and corruption, his quiet-life is out of reach. The writing is good, but it does bounce between first and third person, so that got a little annoying.
Overall, I really liked this book and plan to read the second Tucker Snow book!
December 12, 2023
About two brothers in Texas law enforcement fighting meth manufacturers and corrupt lawmen. A bit over the top but entertaining all the same. 3.5/5 stars
June 28, 2023
After his wife and toddler daughter were killed in a car accident, Tucker Snow has taken leave from his law enforcement position and moves to the country with his teenage daughter Chloe. Hoping to find a way to process his grief, he has unknowingly purchased property in close proximity to one of the biggest drug dealers in the county. After visits to local law enforcement seem to go nowhere, and the possibility that the locals are covering for the drug traffickers, Tucker and his brother Harley, (retired law enforcement,) decide to tighten up security at his new home. When his surviving daughter is kidnapped, Tucker and Harley go into full force special ops mode to find her and take down the local drug dealers.
This is the first book by Mr. Wortham that I've read, and it was fabulous. Great plot and a good story. Quite a bit of murder and mayhem, but some people are so evil they just don't need to be around anymore! Thoroughly enjoyed this book start to finish.
Thanks to Poisoned Pen Press and Net Galley for the opportunity to read an ARC of this book. The review is my own.
This is the first book by Mr. Wortham that I've read, and it was fabulous. Great plot and a good story. Quite a bit of murder and mayhem, but some people are so evil they just don't need to be around anymore! Thoroughly enjoyed this book start to finish.
Thanks to Poisoned Pen Press and Net Galley for the opportunity to read an ARC of this book. The review is my own.
April 9, 2023
Hard Country is not the first Tucker Snow novel but I feels like you could start here and the background is explained enough to be clear. Tucker Snow has taken a leave from the Texas Rangers as a Cattle Agent to grieve for his wife and child killed by a drug using in an auto wreck. Of course his new house places him right next to the local drug dealer. Tucker begins a war that just keeps escalating with his neighbor until danger comes knocking on his front door. In a town where the cops can’t be trusted Tucker and his brother Harley take justice into their own hands in a dangerous, action packed war on meth. This book is action packed and full steam ahead where the heroes’ only flaws seem to be they think they’re untouchable enough that they just attract trouble. My voluntary, unbiased review is based upon a review copy from NetGalley.
May 3, 2025
If you’re looking for an action filled book, this one’s for you. Tuck Snow and his daughter, Chloe, are living in their new home in the country. They moved there to heal from the loss of Tucks wife and daughter, Chloe’s mother and sister. Quiet life in the country comes to an abrupt end very shortly after they move in. Tuck suspects neighbor is a meth dealer and meth dealer doesn’t like the law snooping in his business.
I always say I learn something new in every book I read, and this book proved it again. I’ve read about fainting goats, and with this book I learned more info on the goats.
Also I learned some scary facts on meth, and in this book the meth is called ‘gravel’. (Interestingly the authors note it is mentioned that gravel is a fictional name for this book, but I Googled it and found gravel is real and has been around since about 2014.) Extremely powerful and dangerous drug.
Also the data-collecting methods if you have newer car or truck, is quite fascinating.
This was a fast, very action filled, and very exciting read, with a very satisfying ending.
I always say I learn something new in every book I read, and this book proved it again. I’ve read about fainting goats, and with this book I learned more info on the goats.
Also I learned some scary facts on meth, and in this book the meth is called ‘gravel’. (Interestingly the authors note it is mentioned that gravel is a fictional name for this book, but I Googled it and found gravel is real and has been around since about 2014.) Extremely powerful and dangerous drug.
Also the data-collecting methods if you have newer car or truck, is quite fascinating.
This was a fast, very action filled, and very exciting read, with a very satisfying ending.
October 25, 2023
Reavis Wortham's Tucker Snow "Hard Country," gives us one heck of Slam-Bang action-packed thriller, very much along the lines of Taylor Moore's Garrett Kohl thrillers...Snow and his teenaged daughter have relocated from the Dallas area after his wife Sara Beth and toddler daughter are killed in a car wreck caused by someone on drugs and it seems the urban drug problems have followed them to the country...Great Fun Read!
September 9, 2023
I remember that I mainly read traditional or cozy mystery not long ago. Then something happend and I'm also loving this action packed and tense thrillers that keep me turning pages and reading till late in the night
This a good one, this huge Lansdale fan found something of him in this story, but also a solid, girpping, and well plotted thriller.
Highly recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher for this ARC, all opinions are mine
This a good one, this huge Lansdale fan found something of him in this story, but also a solid, girpping, and well plotted thriller.
Highly recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher for this ARC, all opinions are mine
September 6, 2023
Despite my love of the south and crime novels, somehow I've missed the writings of Reavis Wortham. This was a pleasant surprise and Wortham's works will definitely be on my radar in the future!
The story was page-turning, the plot was unique, the characters were nicely developed! Buried in the excitement was some great information about law enforcement and the data mining capabilities of automobiles. Really interesting stuff!
Hard Country was an awesome surprise listen! It was fast-paced, full of suspence, and I loved the southern setting! Can't wait for my next Wortham book!
Thanks to Dreamscapes for an Advanced Reader Copy.
The story was page-turning, the plot was unique, the characters were nicely developed! Buried in the excitement was some great information about law enforcement and the data mining capabilities of automobiles. Really interesting stuff!
Hard Country was an awesome surprise listen! It was fast-paced, full of suspence, and I loved the southern setting! Can't wait for my next Wortham book!
Thanks to Dreamscapes for an Advanced Reader Copy.
August 17, 2023
Another great read by this author!
Have read all of his books and they just keep getting better! Knowing the part of Texas he writes about makes it even more interesting.
Have read all of his books and they just keep getting better! Knowing the part of Texas he writes about makes it even more interesting.
September 20, 2023
Delightful and Fast Paced
Tough, tender, shocking, funny, dangerous, capable Lawmen and Cowboys and Fathers, Snow and his brother are quickly becoming favorites for me! Can’t wait to see if Snow shows up again!
Tough, tender, shocking, funny, dangerous, capable Lawmen and Cowboys and Fathers, Snow and his brother are quickly becoming favorites for me! Can’t wait to see if Snow shows up again!
August 8, 2023
Fasten your seatbelt
Hard Country is the first of a series and I'm now anxiously waiting for volume two. I really like how Tucker and Harley work together to take out the bad guys. Buying a ranch for rest & relaxation did not exactly work as planned for Tucker & his daughter. She is kidnapped by the neighbor aka drug dealer, and the ensuing chase to find her will keep you turning pages well into the night. Some editing/proofreading was needed but the storyline flows anyway. Well done, Reavis Wortham!
Hard Country is the first of a series and I'm now anxiously waiting for volume two. I really like how Tucker and Harley work together to take out the bad guys. Buying a ranch for rest & relaxation did not exactly work as planned for Tucker & his daughter. She is kidnapped by the neighbor aka drug dealer, and the ensuing chase to find her will keep you turning pages well into the night. Some editing/proofreading was needed but the storyline flows anyway. Well done, Reavis Wortham!
July 16, 2023
So excited to discover a new-to-me wonderful author from my home state. This is set in one of the few areas I’m unfamiliar with, N. East Texas. I’ve traveled all over this massive state and central Oklahoma, never the corner where the piney woods meet the mountainous Choctaw region. It was the perfect setting for criminals to hide an elaborate, very profitable business. A new variety of methamphetamine whose side effects make users crazed with feral demons.
Tucker is a recent widow with a teenage daughter. He’s moved them to the country, bought some land and is on leave as a special agent with the Cattle Raisers Association. Anyone not familiar with this type of law enforcement should note that they hold more power and authority than you’d expect and are well respected. Harley is his brother, retired law enforcement, now has his own training company for various law enforcement agencies. They are very close and the concept with Tucker and Harley, brothers in similar law enforcement agencies was fresh and flowed well. They fed off each other’s energy, finished sentences yet didn’t always see eye to eye. The story has a wild west flair while it’s social issues are unfortunately all too common and current.
The nearest town includes a network of loosely related kinfolk. Cousins, uncles, brothers, crooks and law enforcement all tangled up by blood relation. There’s a plot to take out the ailing honest sheriff so the crooked temporary replacement becomes permanent. Tucker’s daughter befriends a younger girl who is caught in a home life of horrors. This act of kindness endangers both their lives. Tucker must depend on his brother like never before in order to save what he has left of his family. The action is explosive spanning Texas into Oklahoma. I loved everything about the characters, setting and plot. It is the first in a new series. I can’t wait to read more!
A digital advance reader copy of “Hard Country” by Reavis Z. Wortham, Published by Poisoned Pen Press, was provided by NetGalley. These are all my own honest personal thoughts and opinions given voluntarily without compensation.
Tucker is a recent widow with a teenage daughter. He’s moved them to the country, bought some land and is on leave as a special agent with the Cattle Raisers Association. Anyone not familiar with this type of law enforcement should note that they hold more power and authority than you’d expect and are well respected. Harley is his brother, retired law enforcement, now has his own training company for various law enforcement agencies. They are very close and the concept with Tucker and Harley, brothers in similar law enforcement agencies was fresh and flowed well. They fed off each other’s energy, finished sentences yet didn’t always see eye to eye. The story has a wild west flair while it’s social issues are unfortunately all too common and current.
The nearest town includes a network of loosely related kinfolk. Cousins, uncles, brothers, crooks and law enforcement all tangled up by blood relation. There’s a plot to take out the ailing honest sheriff so the crooked temporary replacement becomes permanent. Tucker’s daughter befriends a younger girl who is caught in a home life of horrors. This act of kindness endangers both their lives. Tucker must depend on his brother like never before in order to save what he has left of his family. The action is explosive spanning Texas into Oklahoma. I loved everything about the characters, setting and plot. It is the first in a new series. I can’t wait to read more!
A digital advance reader copy of “Hard Country” by Reavis Z. Wortham, Published by Poisoned Pen Press, was provided by NetGalley. These are all my own honest personal thoughts and opinions given voluntarily without compensation.
September 12, 2023
Well, I just found myself a new author to read. I really liked the characters and am happy to see that this is a new series! I feel like I am constantly disappointed by nearly everything in the mystery/thriller genre, so I am pleased by this one.
Agent Tucker Snow moved to a rural town after the death of his wife and youngest daughter. He is currently on leave, but that all changes when he discovers he lives across the street from a drug dealer. When he tries to report it, he finds that many locals are not only aware- but are protective of the criminal.
I look forward to more Tucker Snow and family!
Eric G. Dove narrates the audio version and does a good job.
I received an audio book in exchange for an honest review.
Agent Tucker Snow moved to a rural town after the death of his wife and youngest daughter. He is currently on leave, but that all changes when he discovers he lives across the street from a drug dealer. When he tries to report it, he finds that many locals are not only aware- but are protective of the criminal.
I look forward to more Tucker Snow and family!
Eric G. Dove narrates the audio version and does a good job.
I received an audio book in exchange for an honest review.
August 9, 2023
I read this is one sitting - couldn’t put it down! Great characters, a timely story, and plenty of fast-paced action kept me turning pages.
September 6, 2023
Hard Country is hard to put down. A great story about the underbelly of the illicit drug world.
June 18, 2023
Read his full review on Rosepoint Publishing.
Illegal drugs have hit every population in the world. Texas is no different, and that state's law enforcement personnel are charged with helping curb the epidemic.
Tucker and Harley Snow are agents swept up in trying to protect the public from these criminals. A new product enters the market with terrible social consequences.
Tucker bought a beautiful spread in the panhandle and is settling in for a well-earned retirement. His neighbor lives in a ratty mobile home with a very profitable business. He is not about to allow this lawman to come into his territory and destroy his enterprise.
The book is very well written and harkens back to some of the old Zane Grey’s westerns. The action is fast-moving and at times very descriptive. The battle to control the effects on the American public of easily accessible drugs is similar to the wild west of a century earlier. Read and enjoy for there is never a dull moment. 4.5 stars – CE Williams
Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with the opportunity to read and review this book.
Illegal drugs have hit every population in the world. Texas is no different, and that state's law enforcement personnel are charged with helping curb the epidemic.
Tucker and Harley Snow are agents swept up in trying to protect the public from these criminals. A new product enters the market with terrible social consequences.
Tucker bought a beautiful spread in the panhandle and is settling in for a well-earned retirement. His neighbor lives in a ratty mobile home with a very profitable business. He is not about to allow this lawman to come into his territory and destroy his enterprise.
The book is very well written and harkens back to some of the old Zane Grey’s westerns. The action is fast-moving and at times very descriptive. The battle to control the effects on the American public of easily accessible drugs is similar to the wild west of a century earlier. Read and enjoy for there is never a dull moment. 4.5 stars – CE Williams
Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with the opportunity to read and review this book.
August 13, 2023
This is my favorite genre. I'm an avid reader so I'm always looking for a new to me author. When I find one, I tend to binge read their library. I just finished reading C J Box's Joe Pickett series set in Wyoming. Now I find Reavis Z Wortham writing the same excellent quality of books as Box. I have no idea how I reached this age and have never read any of his library. But now......
Hard Country has a definite "good vs bad" feeling with the good guys sometimes using alternate methods to rid the crime from their homes and families. Tucker Snow, with his brother Harley, have an extensive history of successfully solving crimes, no questions asked. (Shades of Pickett and Romanofski) But Tucker is trying to figure out how to survive in a world where he has lost his wife and son. He moves his teenage daughter to a place where he can better protect her, only to find that a peaceful place may not exist. This back story, a greiving man trying to protect his family, sets Tucker up to investigate his neighbors and along with help from his brother, again do what he does best. Book #1 in the Tucker Snow thriller has guaranteed that I'll be watching for more Reavis Z Wortham books. Or least after I binge the Red River series.....
Hard Country has a definite "good vs bad" feeling with the good guys sometimes using alternate methods to rid the crime from their homes and families. Tucker Snow, with his brother Harley, have an extensive history of successfully solving crimes, no questions asked. (Shades of Pickett and Romanofski) But Tucker is trying to figure out how to survive in a world where he has lost his wife and son. He moves his teenage daughter to a place where he can better protect her, only to find that a peaceful place may not exist. This back story, a greiving man trying to protect his family, sets Tucker up to investigate his neighbors and along with help from his brother, again do what he does best. Book #1 in the Tucker Snow thriller has guaranteed that I'll be watching for more Reavis Z Wortham books. Or least after I binge the Red River series.....
August 21, 2023
One good book, this was, it was very interesting. This book was based on people who did meth in the rural counties outside of dallas. I'm just snowing moved there with his daughter. Because his wife and baby daughter was killed in an accident because of these people. Touched on a lot of different issues as well and I learned a lot about certain things in this book. It was like novel it always. Something was happening every minute. It's just snow, it's time to do right and help everybody. But things got really out of hand real quick look like.. His daughter Chloe was just trying to go through it on my emotions. And you try to be friends with a nut girl next door.. It was like a chasing in the movie as well. Because things just started to go around them. Including our friend were taken by these people. Chloe knew what to do because her father was S h e I e f This helped the girl survive there already. The book has a happy ending.
February 16, 2023
Tucker Snow worked with his brother Harley as Texas law officer’s hunting down narcotics dealers. Tuck moves with his teenaged daughter to a remote area of the state near the Oklahoma border after the death of his wife and toddler. He had no idea that his ranch property borders on a ramshackle trailer, home to a meth dealer. After an encounter with his neighbor, all hell starts to slowly break loose.
Wortham superbly ratchets up the tension over the course of this fast read. There are crooked cops, despicable meth dealers and straight laced lawmen that populate the book. Tuck and his brother are just such well drawn characters. I just could not put the book down, and raced through the pages to see what would happen next. Well plotted and written.
My thanks to Netgalley and to the publisher for providing an ARC of Hard Country, due out August 2, 2023.
Wortham superbly ratchets up the tension over the course of this fast read. There are crooked cops, despicable meth dealers and straight laced lawmen that populate the book. Tuck and his brother are just such well drawn characters. I just could not put the book down, and raced through the pages to see what would happen next. Well plotted and written.
My thanks to Netgalley and to the publisher for providing an ARC of Hard Country, due out August 2, 2023.
March 13, 2023
I have read all of Mr. Wortham's novels to-date, and have enjoyed most all of them. For me, the rural setting and culture are attractions and I find the books to be well written. However, while I liked previous books, I think the setting, culture, and characters have, for me, begun to wear thin. While the plot line is completely believable, it is not particularly interesting or unique. If you have never read Mr. Wortham, then I think you would probably enjoy this book. If you have read his novels, you too may decide it is time to move on.
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