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Sweetwater Ranch #2
Cowboy Behind the Badge
Two newborns in jeopardy bring together former sweethearts in the second book in USA TODAY bestselling author Delores Fossen's Sweetwater Ranch series!
The last thing Texas Ranger Tucker McKinnon expects to find in his pantry is two sleeping newborns. But it's the woman who spirited the infants to his ranch who stirs the lawman's blood, along with haunting memories. Once, Tucker and Laine Braddock were inseparable... until murder divided their families. Now, with a killer on Laine's trail, Tucker has never felt more powerless. Or been more determined.
Desperate to keep her and her innocent charges safe, Tucker uncovers some shocking truths. Including the feelings they still share - and the desire they're finding impossible to resist.
The last thing Texas Ranger Tucker McKinnon expects to find in his pantry is two sleeping newborns. But it's the woman who spirited the infants to his ranch who stirs the lawman's blood, along with haunting memories. Once, Tucker and Laine Braddock were inseparable... until murder divided their families. Now, with a killer on Laine's trail, Tucker has never felt more powerless. Or been more determined.
Desperate to keep her and her innocent charges safe, Tucker uncovers some shocking truths. Including the feelings they still share - and the desire they're finding impossible to resist.
219 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 16, 2014
About the author
Delores Fossen
717 books822 followersThank you for finding me on Goodreads!
Want to know more about me? Well, here it is in a nutshell:
I’m a USA Today bestselling author, and I’ve sold over 100 novels. Yes, 100! Needless to say, I write a lot. I’ve had the honor of receiving the Booksellers' Best Award for romantic suspense, the Romantic Times Reviewers' Choice Award, and I was a finalist for the Rita. My books have been featured in Vogue, Woman’s Day and Woman’s World. I’ve also had nearly a hundred short stories and articles published in national magazines. I love hearing from readers, and you can contact me through my webpage at: www.deloresfossen.com.
Want to know more about me? Well, here it is in a nutshell:
I’m a USA Today bestselling author, and I’ve sold over 100 novels. Yes, 100! Needless to say, I write a lot. I’ve had the honor of receiving the Booksellers' Best Award for romantic suspense, the Romantic Times Reviewers' Choice Award, and I was a finalist for the Rita. My books have been featured in Vogue, Woman’s Day and Woman’s World. I’ve also had nearly a hundred short stories and articles published in national magazines. I love hearing from readers, and you can contact me through my webpage at: www.deloresfossen.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews
August 13, 2019
Cowboy Behind the Badge was a quick read featuring an enemies to lovers romance with a hint of second chance at love.
To say Texas Ranger Tucker McKinnon is surprised to discover Laine Braddock with two sleeping infants in his pantry is an understatement. Tucker and Laine were inseparable when they were younger until Tucker’s mother murdered Laine’s father. These days despite the attraction simmering between them the two can’t even speak to each other. So when someone tries to kill Laine, she heads to Tucker’s ranch to hide knowing no one would look for her there. But Laine underestimated the people after her and when they show up at Tucker’s door, it will take everything they’ve got to survive.
The plot in this book somewhat connects with the plot in the first book in the series, Maverick Sheriff, so I do recommend reading that one first as you don’t get a lot of background into what’s going on in this book. My main issue with the plot in this book is that it’s a bit all over the place. It just didn’t seem like anything progressed in a logical order and I had a hard time following everything with the way the story jumped all over the place. We do get a bit more background into the murder Tucker’s mother is accused of and I find that I’m still most interested in that aspect of the series.
Laine and Tucker’s relationship isn’t in a good place when the book starts. Laine and Tucker had childhood crushes on one another but after Laine’s father’s murder, their relationship was never the same. The families became enemies and there was no way the two would be able to continue their friendship. I do enjoy a good second chance romance and I found myself liking those aspects of their relationship but there was little else I enjoyed about it. We are told multiple times that the pair hate each other but that never seemed to be the case.
Ultimately Cowboy Behind the Badge wasn’t for me, but I will continue on with the series as the overarching background plot has me interested in reading more.
To say Texas Ranger Tucker McKinnon is surprised to discover Laine Braddock with two sleeping infants in his pantry is an understatement. Tucker and Laine were inseparable when they were younger until Tucker’s mother murdered Laine’s father. These days despite the attraction simmering between them the two can’t even speak to each other. So when someone tries to kill Laine, she heads to Tucker’s ranch to hide knowing no one would look for her there. But Laine underestimated the people after her and when they show up at Tucker’s door, it will take everything they’ve got to survive.
The plot in this book somewhat connects with the plot in the first book in the series, Maverick Sheriff, so I do recommend reading that one first as you don’t get a lot of background into what’s going on in this book. My main issue with the plot in this book is that it’s a bit all over the place. It just didn’t seem like anything progressed in a logical order and I had a hard time following everything with the way the story jumped all over the place. We do get a bit more background into the murder Tucker’s mother is accused of and I find that I’m still most interested in that aspect of the series.
Laine and Tucker’s relationship isn’t in a good place when the book starts. Laine and Tucker had childhood crushes on one another but after Laine’s father’s murder, their relationship was never the same. The families became enemies and there was no way the two would be able to continue their friendship. I do enjoy a good second chance romance and I found myself liking those aspects of their relationship but there was little else I enjoyed about it. We are told multiple times that the pair hate each other but that never seemed to be the case.
Ultimately Cowboy Behind the Badge wasn’t for me, but I will continue on with the series as the overarching background plot has me interested in reading more.
July 31, 2015
The sky looked like a crime scene, though. Bruise-colored storm clouds with a bloodred sunset stabbing through them. He hoped that wasn't some kind of bad sign.
That's the best quote from this book.
Tucker McKinnon, Texas Ranger, gets out of the shower to hear someone in his house. Grabbing his gun, he's surprised to find childhood sweetheart Laine Braddock terrified and hiding in his kitchen. He's even more surprised when he finds two twin infants in his pantry.
Tucker and Laine haven't really been on good terms since he was 11. After all, his mom is accused of murdering her father. However, Tucker is a lawman, and a good one at that. He can't turn his back on this frightened woman and the two babies she's trying to save.
...
Again, we've got Fossen's standard formula. Two people, who hate each other for reasons that are about as clear and substantial as mud, come together and in the course of just two or three days, "fall in love." It's ridiculous.
We've also got the idiot bad guys who do such moronic things I'm surprised they live past Chapter Two. Really, really dumb stuff.
We have law enforcement officers who do a very sloppy and incompetent job of investigating whatever shenanigans are going on in the book. I don't know who are bigger idiots in this novel - the villains or the police.
Don't expect any type of character development, feeling exploration, or getting-to-know-you romance scenes. It's all bang-bang-kiss-kiss in this book. And that's a shame, because the characters are what make or break a romance novel, and they're weak here.
There's no mention of condoms whatsoever. It's true that Laine is sterile, but Tucker is a ladies' man, and she should definitely be asking about some protection.
The names the couple ends up giving the twins are super-lame. Really!?!?!?! Really!?!?!? Either one on it's own is fine, but together??!!?!? Even "Jack and Jill" would be better and show more creativity. Argh.
Tl;dr - An utter waste of time.
ONE REAL STAR, ONE ROMANCE STAR
Harlequin Intrigue October 2014
That's the best quote from this book.
Tucker McKinnon, Texas Ranger, gets out of the shower to hear someone in his house. Grabbing his gun, he's surprised to find childhood sweetheart Laine Braddock terrified and hiding in his kitchen. He's even more surprised when he finds two twin infants in his pantry.
Tucker and Laine haven't really been on good terms since he was 11. After all, his mom is accused of murdering her father. However, Tucker is a lawman, and a good one at that. He can't turn his back on this frightened woman and the two babies she's trying to save.
...
Again, we've got Fossen's standard formula. Two people, who hate each other for reasons that are about as clear and substantial as mud, come together and in the course of just two or three days, "fall in love." It's ridiculous.
We've also got the idiot bad guys who do such moronic things I'm surprised they live past Chapter Two. Really, really dumb stuff.
We have law enforcement officers who do a very sloppy and incompetent job of investigating whatever shenanigans are going on in the book. I don't know who are bigger idiots in this novel - the villains or the police.
Don't expect any type of character development, feeling exploration, or getting-to-know-you romance scenes. It's all bang-bang-kiss-kiss in this book. And that's a shame, because the characters are what make or break a romance novel, and they're weak here.
There's no mention of condoms whatsoever. It's true that Laine is sterile, but Tucker is a ladies' man, and she should definitely be asking about some protection.
The names the couple ends up giving the twins are super-lame. Really!?!?!?! Really!?!?!? Either one on it's own is fine, but together??!!?!? Even "Jack and Jill" would be better and show more creativity. Argh.
Tl;dr - An utter waste of time.
ONE REAL STAR, ONE ROMANCE STAR
Harlequin Intrigue October 2014
October 23, 2017
I loved this action packed book. Texas Ranger Tucker did not know what to think when he hears someone break into his home. He was shocked to find the trespasser was Laine, but was more shocked to find out what she was hiding in his pantry. She had two newborns. Laine had just witnessed a murder. The last words the lady said before she was gunned down was protect the babies. Laine and Tucker didn't get along, but she knew he was good at his job. If anyone would help her to protect the newborns it would be Tucker. She was right. He protected the babies, and Laine. This book had nonstop action, and suspense. It also had romance.
Sample from chapter 12 - "Hold on," Tucker warned her. There was no clear spot left on the windshield for him to see, but he hit the accelerator, and the cruiser practically flew out of the parking lot. There were no oncoming vehicles, thank goodness probably because the sound of those gunshots had kept everyone at bay. The bullets kept coming at them, even as the cruiser screeched away from the diner. The shooters adjusted their positions and continued to fire, but the bullets didn't go into the interior of the car. They went into the tires. Laine couldn't be sure, but it felt as if at least two tires had been shot out. Tucker had no choice but to bring the cruiser to a stop, and he got out
Sample from chapter 12 - "Hold on," Tucker warned her. There was no clear spot left on the windshield for him to see, but he hit the accelerator, and the cruiser practically flew out of the parking lot. There were no oncoming vehicles, thank goodness probably because the sound of those gunshots had kept everyone at bay. The bullets kept coming at them, even as the cruiser screeched away from the diner. The shooters adjusted their positions and continued to fire, but the bullets didn't go into the interior of the car. They went into the tires. Laine couldn't be sure, but it felt as if at least two tires had been shot out. Tucker had no choice but to bring the cruiser to a stop, and he got out
October 20, 2018
For some reason I enjoy reading really bad romance books.
I don’t know why theMcKinnons hate the Braddocks—it was one of them that supposedly killed a Braddock, they shouldn’t hate someone’s family just because of a murder omfg
Also Mattie and Matt are stupid names.
I don’t know why theMcKinnons hate the Braddocks—it was one of them that supposedly killed a Braddock, they shouldn’t hate someone’s family just because of a murder omfg
Also Mattie and Matt are stupid names.
September 17, 2014
Second book in the series was just as good as the first. The last thing Tucker needed at the end of a rough day was the sound of an intruder in his house. He didn't expect to see Laine Braddock and two newborns hiding from a pair of killers. He and Laine had been good friends until her father was murdered and his mother accused of doing it. Their most recent encounter was while they were both working on a baby farm case and Tucker managed to get her removed from it. What he didn't know was that she continued working on her own, which has gotten her in the mess she's in now.
Tucker would really like to just get the kids to social services and Laine out of his house, but when the killers track her to his house he steps up to protect them. It doesn't take long for them both to realize that there's more going on than just her rescue of a couple babies. Every time they think they know who is behind the attacks, another person becomes a suspect. Tucker has an overdeveloped sense of responsibility and every attack that happens makes him feel like he's letting Laine down. The longer he spends with them, the more invested he becomes in their safety and the more Laine is beginning to mean to him. The attraction between them is strong and even though they both consider it a bad idea, neither is having much luck in resisting it. Tucker has always been a bit of a player, not interested in commitment or a family of his own, but being around Laine and the babies is making him rethink his plans.
When Laine found herself in the crosshairs of killers, Tucker is the first one she thought of to protect her and the babies. In spite of their families' history she's always known she could trust him. Once she gets past his initial reluctance, his determination makes her feel better about their chances. What she doesn't expect is the heat that flares between them whenever they get close. With the bad blood between their families, getting involved with Tucker is a really bad idea, but she just can't resist dreaming of the possibilities. I loved Laine's determination to protect the babies, and the strength she showed as she and Tucker fought back against those who were intent on harming them. The love she had for the babies was incredible and I really liked her plans for their future. I also liked seeing the way that she saw the love that Tucker was capable of, even before he realized it himself.
The suspense itself was nonstop. From the very beginning when Laine showed up at Tucker's, we never know what direction the threat will be coming from. There were so many possible suspects that it was sometimes hard to tell who was at the top of the list at any given time. Just when I thought I had it figured out, someone else would move up the chain. The final showdown was really intense with Laine in immediate danger. The action was truly edge-of-the-seat until the end.
The family dynamics are still an important part of the story. Tucker's sister Rayenne is as antagonistic as she was in the first book, but again provides backup when it is needed. With this book we get the addition of Laine, who is the daughter of Jewel's murdered lover. Her mother is not happy to have Laine involved with Tucker, and at least at the beginning, Tucker's family isn't any happier. I did like the way that his family's attitude changed as the book went on. I loved Tucker's dad's comment at the end when it became obvious that Laine and Tucker were going to stay together.
Tucker would really like to just get the kids to social services and Laine out of his house, but when the killers track her to his house he steps up to protect them. It doesn't take long for them both to realize that there's more going on than just her rescue of a couple babies. Every time they think they know who is behind the attacks, another person becomes a suspect. Tucker has an overdeveloped sense of responsibility and every attack that happens makes him feel like he's letting Laine down. The longer he spends with them, the more invested he becomes in their safety and the more Laine is beginning to mean to him. The attraction between them is strong and even though they both consider it a bad idea, neither is having much luck in resisting it. Tucker has always been a bit of a player, not interested in commitment or a family of his own, but being around Laine and the babies is making him rethink his plans.
When Laine found herself in the crosshairs of killers, Tucker is the first one she thought of to protect her and the babies. In spite of their families' history she's always known she could trust him. Once she gets past his initial reluctance, his determination makes her feel better about their chances. What she doesn't expect is the heat that flares between them whenever they get close. With the bad blood between their families, getting involved with Tucker is a really bad idea, but she just can't resist dreaming of the possibilities. I loved Laine's determination to protect the babies, and the strength she showed as she and Tucker fought back against those who were intent on harming them. The love she had for the babies was incredible and I really liked her plans for their future. I also liked seeing the way that she saw the love that Tucker was capable of, even before he realized it himself.
The suspense itself was nonstop. From the very beginning when Laine showed up at Tucker's, we never know what direction the threat will be coming from. There were so many possible suspects that it was sometimes hard to tell who was at the top of the list at any given time. Just when I thought I had it figured out, someone else would move up the chain. The final showdown was really intense with Laine in immediate danger. The action was truly edge-of-the-seat until the end.
The family dynamics are still an important part of the story. Tucker's sister Rayenne is as antagonistic as she was in the first book, but again provides backup when it is needed. With this book we get the addition of Laine, who is the daughter of Jewel's murdered lover. Her mother is not happy to have Laine involved with Tucker, and at least at the beginning, Tucker's family isn't any happier. I did like the way that his family's attitude changed as the book went on. I loved Tucker's dad's comment at the end when it became obvious that Laine and Tucker were going to stay together.
September 17, 2014
When his nemesis, Laine Braddock appears in his home in the middle of the night with infant twins and a tale of murder, Tucker McKinnon knows he's in for trouble.
The Braddocks and the McKinnons, rival families since Tucker's mother stands accused of murdering Laine's father. Even though when they were younger, they shared a mutual attraction for one another, murder is definitely a deal breaker...or is it? Laine gives her side of how and why she came to have the twins, stating that before their mother died, she begged Laine to keep them safe. Tucker already knows that there is an illegal adoption ring wreaking havoc on innocent women and when he finds that Laine is involved, he puts aside his ill will to help Laine and to keep the twins safe from the aggressors who want them.
Now Laine and Tucker have targets on their backs once they put themselves between the babies and the bad guys. Tucker's waning animosity for Laine blossoms into that attraction he once felt for her and even though both family's may hate it, that attraction isn't going anywhere. Putting their feelings in perspective while keeping these precious packages safe is paramount in Tucker's mind. As much as he wants to keep at arms length from this woman, he finds his character and his sense of honor won't allow him to. Laine knows Tucker should hate her for all that's gone on between the families, her only hope is he out aside that hatred to help her and the twins from being hurt.
COWBOY BEHIND THE BADGE (Sweetwater Ranch #2) by Delores Fossen is an emotionally charged tale of desire and intrigue. Tucker's loyalty to his family is what makes him such a honorable man. His softening and his re-awakened desire for Laine make him a force to be reckoned with and an amazing hero. I love Laine's inability to back down when by putting herself in danger by taking on care for the twins, it makes her a formidable heroine. COWBOY BEHIND THE BADGE is a wonderful follow-up in the Sweetwater Ranch series and I can't wait to read the next story by Delores Fossen, who consistently delivers in both the areas of romance and suspense have her firmly on my TBR list.
The Braddocks and the McKinnons, rival families since Tucker's mother stands accused of murdering Laine's father. Even though when they were younger, they shared a mutual attraction for one another, murder is definitely a deal breaker...or is it? Laine gives her side of how and why she came to have the twins, stating that before their mother died, she begged Laine to keep them safe. Tucker already knows that there is an illegal adoption ring wreaking havoc on innocent women and when he finds that Laine is involved, he puts aside his ill will to help Laine and to keep the twins safe from the aggressors who want them.
Now Laine and Tucker have targets on their backs once they put themselves between the babies and the bad guys. Tucker's waning animosity for Laine blossoms into that attraction he once felt for her and even though both family's may hate it, that attraction isn't going anywhere. Putting their feelings in perspective while keeping these precious packages safe is paramount in Tucker's mind. As much as he wants to keep at arms length from this woman, he finds his character and his sense of honor won't allow him to. Laine knows Tucker should hate her for all that's gone on between the families, her only hope is he out aside that hatred to help her and the twins from being hurt.
COWBOY BEHIND THE BADGE (Sweetwater Ranch #2) by Delores Fossen is an emotionally charged tale of desire and intrigue. Tucker's loyalty to his family is what makes him such a honorable man. His softening and his re-awakened desire for Laine make him a force to be reckoned with and an amazing hero. I love Laine's inability to back down when by putting herself in danger by taking on care for the twins, it makes her a formidable heroine. COWBOY BEHIND THE BADGE is a wonderful follow-up in the Sweetwater Ranch series and I can't wait to read the next story by Delores Fossen, who consistently delivers in both the areas of romance and suspense have her firmly on my TBR list.
September 11, 2014
Laine Braddock is up to her eyeballs in trouble and the only person she trusts to save her and the twin newborns she is protecting is her childhood friend Tucker McKinnon. Tucker is now a Texas Ranger and the last thing he expects is to find Laine and two babies hiding out from cold-blooded murderers, especially since Tucker’s mom is accused of killing Laine’s father. Even though they haven’t been friends in years, they still share chemistry and desire for each other.
Ms. Fossen developed a riveting plot for this story, but there are too many suspects and too much action happening too quickly. I liked the characters/suspects she introduced. They all kept me on the edge of my seat wondering which ones were involved in the baby farms, but the story would have been more enjoyable if the plot had played out over more pages. I felt the story was rushed, which in turn made the growing romance between Tucker and Laine feel rushed.
Having not read book 1 in this series, I was lost with the backstory of the families and the murder of Laine’s father. I know Tucker’s mom is awaiting trial for the murder and the children are divided on her guilt or innocence, but how does Tucker’s dad factor into the situation? How long ago did the murder take place? Were Tucker’s mom and dad still married when she had the affair with Laine’s dad? I have a lot of unanswered questions about that part of the story. Hopefully the future books in this series will answer those questions.
Overall, this was a good romantic suspense book and I’m looking forward to reading the future books in the series.
Ms. Fossen developed a riveting plot for this story, but there are too many suspects and too much action happening too quickly. I liked the characters/suspects she introduced. They all kept me on the edge of my seat wondering which ones were involved in the baby farms, but the story would have been more enjoyable if the plot had played out over more pages. I felt the story was rushed, which in turn made the growing romance between Tucker and Laine feel rushed.
Having not read book 1 in this series, I was lost with the backstory of the families and the murder of Laine’s father. I know Tucker’s mom is awaiting trial for the murder and the children are divided on her guilt or innocence, but how does Tucker’s dad factor into the situation? How long ago did the murder take place? Were Tucker’s mom and dad still married when she had the affair with Laine’s dad? I have a lot of unanswered questions about that part of the story. Hopefully the future books in this series will answer those questions.
Overall, this was a good romantic suspense book and I’m looking forward to reading the future books in the series.
September 24, 2014
Delores Fossen’s second book in her series Sweetwater Ranch is as good and adrenaline pumping story as the first. “Cowboy Behind The Badge” offers another heady rush of suspense and thrill.
Texas Ranger Tucker McKinnon sure wasn’t looking for trouble when Laine Braddock breaks into his house and he definitely was not looking for double trouble when he sees Laine is hiding two adorable newborns in his pantry. From the time he finds Laine, Tucker is thrown into triple trouble as he tries to get to the bottom of the mystery surrounding the twins.
Laine Braddock, a psychiatrist, is thrown into a whirlwind of danger the minute she is thrust with the safety of the newborns and witnesses the murder of the twins’ mother. She has no other choice but get to the sanctuary of Tucker, if she wants to live to take care of the babies.
Tucker and Laine have a history together before a murder puts them on two sides of the fence. Yet as they fight together to save the babies, they discover that the spark between them was never doused and the passion kindles into a fire. A fire that they have to control to save the babies and put an end to a baby adoption farm gone the evil way.
Page after page of suspense, twists and danger is what Delores gives us in her second book in the series. Trust and support are tested, integrity and love stands trial and passion and justice wins it all. Tucker and Laine are two strong individuals and make one kick-ass couple. I liked the fact that the characters got more attention and more personality invested in them.
A sparkling five star enjoyable read!
Received a copy from Netgalley for an honest review
Texas Ranger Tucker McKinnon sure wasn’t looking for trouble when Laine Braddock breaks into his house and he definitely was not looking for double trouble when he sees Laine is hiding two adorable newborns in his pantry. From the time he finds Laine, Tucker is thrown into triple trouble as he tries to get to the bottom of the mystery surrounding the twins.
Laine Braddock, a psychiatrist, is thrown into a whirlwind of danger the minute she is thrust with the safety of the newborns and witnesses the murder of the twins’ mother. She has no other choice but get to the sanctuary of Tucker, if she wants to live to take care of the babies.
Tucker and Laine have a history together before a murder puts them on two sides of the fence. Yet as they fight together to save the babies, they discover that the spark between them was never doused and the passion kindles into a fire. A fire that they have to control to save the babies and put an end to a baby adoption farm gone the evil way.
Page after page of suspense, twists and danger is what Delores gives us in her second book in the series. Trust and support are tested, integrity and love stands trial and passion and justice wins it all. Tucker and Laine are two strong individuals and make one kick-ass couple. I liked the fact that the characters got more attention and more personality invested in them.
A sparkling five star enjoyable read!
Received a copy from Netgalley for an honest review
March 29, 2015
Just too unbelievable of a plot and characters for me. I finished the book but it was more me pushing myself to read it. I found the main female lead, Laine, just plain stupid and no common sense. This character is called Dr. Braddock in the book. Then the end she gets to adopt the babies! no I would not give this book to another person.
April 14, 2019
...and let me assure you that this series has done just that. I've gone bonkers watching the clock... waiting for that moment when I can pull out these books in this series....
January 23, 2023
I'm fairly new to Intrigue but even I knew the name, Delores Fossen. Her books are everywhere, so I assumed she was the most popular Harlequin author for a reason. Though I didn't love this book, I did like the characters. Lainie and Tucker were a great match and despite all the bullets literally flying all around them, the path to their HEA was well worth it. I love babies in romance, lol I just do. Even though the kids didn't belong to Tucker he was so great with the babies. I just love when a tough hero is a soft touch for the heroine as well as kids! The mystery aspect of this was good but lagged in parts otherwise this would have been at least a four-star read.
May 18, 2021
This is another action-packed book in Delores Fossen's Sweetwater Ranch series. In this novel, Tucker is out to protect an old friend from the mean men who are trying to kill her and take the twins she has managed to save from their baby farm activities. As usual, Ms. Fossen keeps her reader wondering who the culprit behind all the dangerous attacks can be. There are lots of possibilities to choose from.
April 2, 2021
Tucker and Laine's family have a tragic history. Although childhood friendship has always involved a special attraction, they've remained at odds, until now.
Laine saves twin babies from an uncertain future and unwittingly involved Tucker when she seeks solace and protection from him.
Full of suspense and mystery with a bit of romance. Now to book 3.
Laine saves twin babies from an uncertain future and unwittingly involved Tucker when she seeks solace and protection from him.
Full of suspense and mystery with a bit of romance. Now to book 3.
September 26, 2023
Texas Ranger Tucker McKinnon finds Laine Braddock hiding in his pantry with newborn twins. Tucker and Laine were friends until family issues pushed them apart. Laine had found the twins in the hands of people who were selling newborns and killing the mothers. She had managed to spirit the twins away and now needs Tucker’s help to protect the babies.
August 19, 2024
Loved this story about Texas Ranger Tucker McKinnon and Laine Braddock. Sworn enemies must work together to try to solve a murder and save two babies. This story involves baby farms and trying to figure out who runs these farms as well as who is trying to kill Tucker and Laine and steal the babies. Very quick read because you will not want to put it down.
November 15, 2025
Texas Ranger Tucker
There is bad blood between Tucker and Laine. Enough that he got her removed from helping on a case involving baby farms. However when he finds Laine in his house with baby twins, his heart starts to melt. When gunmen arrive trying to get the babies, he knows he will do everything he can to keep them safe.
Another great story by Fossen.
There is bad blood between Tucker and Laine. Enough that he got her removed from helping on a case involving baby farms. However when he finds Laine in his house with baby twins, his heart starts to melt. When gunmen arrive trying to get the babies, he knows he will do everything he can to keep them safe.
Another great story by Fossen.
June 7, 2024
Great read
I finished it in 1 setting. Twin babies, bad blood between families and black market adoptions make for great story. Characters are believable and well written. Book 2 of series. I gave this book 5 stars, trying to fix but keeps showing 2.
I finished it in 1 setting. Twin babies, bad blood between families and black market adoptions make for great story. Characters are believable and well written. Book 2 of series. I gave this book 5 stars, trying to fix but keeps showing 2.
August 26, 2017
Loved this whole series. Recommend for reading!!
November 29, 2019
Lots of action, numerous suspects. I liked the chemistry between the main characters and the way they brought out the best in each other. Great read.
January 28, 2022
Book doesn’t disappoint. But warning: it’s very hard to put down!!
March 16, 2023
Good book in the series
August 23, 2023
This is an awesome series with suspense, action and adventure keeping the reader going all through the book. Can’t wait to start the next book.
December 13, 2014
Bad blood between families can twin babies reunite them again…
This is the second installment in the Sweetwater Ranch series and I have to say that I loved this one too. There is so much suspense in who is trying to take the babies but not only that who could be behind this baby farms. There are so many suspects involved that it can be anyone but then again could it.
Texas Ranger Tucker McKinnon is a strong, hard headed man that will do anything in order to find the truth. Someone entered his home and he can’t believe it but he needed to know who it was. When he finds the intruder in his pantry he never would have thought that the enemy would have broke into his home. But the problem is that she is not alone and he has a bigger problem because someone is trying to kill her.
Laine Braddock is a child psychologist and has help the Rangers in a couple of cases especially the one that they are currently working on, baby farms. She never would have thought that Tucker would have her fired or like he says taken of the case but she wanted to keep on investigating. She ended up going to one of these baby farms to look around since she wanted to adopt children. Laine was engaged but when her ex-fiancée found out that she couldn’t have any children the engagement was off. Now here she was in Tucker’s home with twin babies because the woman she saw get murdered wanted for her to keep them safe.
Tucker and Laine fighting side by side to keep twin babies safe but what they didn’t know was from whom. They had so many suspects they had her ex-fiancée, then another social worker and also his cousin. They have been running from henchmen trying to kill them but that’s not all when there is a shoot out outside of the police station and the diner the henchman that they had in custody was gone. Could they really keep the babies safe? Could Tucker keep Laine safe or would she do what needed to be done in order to keep the Tucker safe?
Cowboy Behind the Badge was a non stop action story that had me guessing and guessing who would want to kill Liane and to take the precious twins. Ms. Fossen did it again in this story her creative writing was descriptive as vivid. There were times that I felt like I was in the story with them at times I wanted to help them or maybe keep the babies safe. Then there were the McKinnon clan and their feelings towards Laine because she was the daughter of the man their mother was being charged of killing. Could they make her feel like family if Tucker was to get involved with Laine, why not she doesn’t have anything to do with it. It was the actions of their mother if she killed him. The chemistry was evident from the moment that they see each other in his home but the moment that they kiss the passion was there. They shared their first kiss when they were kids and now they were sharing a bed.
This is an extremely great read that I totally enjoyed. I can’t wait to read the next book in this series.
Received ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an Honest Review
This is the second installment in the Sweetwater Ranch series and I have to say that I loved this one too. There is so much suspense in who is trying to take the babies but not only that who could be behind this baby farms. There are so many suspects involved that it can be anyone but then again could it.
Texas Ranger Tucker McKinnon is a strong, hard headed man that will do anything in order to find the truth. Someone entered his home and he can’t believe it but he needed to know who it was. When he finds the intruder in his pantry he never would have thought that the enemy would have broke into his home. But the problem is that she is not alone and he has a bigger problem because someone is trying to kill her.
Laine Braddock is a child psychologist and has help the Rangers in a couple of cases especially the one that they are currently working on, baby farms. She never would have thought that Tucker would have her fired or like he says taken of the case but she wanted to keep on investigating. She ended up going to one of these baby farms to look around since she wanted to adopt children. Laine was engaged but when her ex-fiancée found out that she couldn’t have any children the engagement was off. Now here she was in Tucker’s home with twin babies because the woman she saw get murdered wanted for her to keep them safe.
Tucker and Laine fighting side by side to keep twin babies safe but what they didn’t know was from whom. They had so many suspects they had her ex-fiancée, then another social worker and also his cousin. They have been running from henchmen trying to kill them but that’s not all when there is a shoot out outside of the police station and the diner the henchman that they had in custody was gone. Could they really keep the babies safe? Could Tucker keep Laine safe or would she do what needed to be done in order to keep the Tucker safe?
Cowboy Behind the Badge was a non stop action story that had me guessing and guessing who would want to kill Liane and to take the precious twins. Ms. Fossen did it again in this story her creative writing was descriptive as vivid. There were times that I felt like I was in the story with them at times I wanted to help them or maybe keep the babies safe. Then there were the McKinnon clan and their feelings towards Laine because she was the daughter of the man their mother was being charged of killing. Could they make her feel like family if Tucker was to get involved with Laine, why not she doesn’t have anything to do with it. It was the actions of their mother if she killed him. The chemistry was evident from the moment that they see each other in his home but the moment that they kiss the passion was there. They shared their first kiss when they were kids and now they were sharing a bed.
This is an extremely great read that I totally enjoyed. I can’t wait to read the next book in this series.
Received ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an Honest Review
April 2, 2016
Cowboy Behind the Badge by Delores Fossen is the second book in the Sweetwater Ranch series and having already enjoyed reading the first book, Maverick Sheriff, I was eager to start on this one.
Another lovely and thrilling romantic suspense from Delores Fossen, this book narrates the story of Texas Ranger Tucker McKinnon and Laine Braddock whom we met in the first book and know that they were once lovers and now separated because of the enmity between their families. But when danger brings Laine to Tucker's door, he is determined to save her.
While this book is a separate story but still there is a background story of Laine's father's murder and the prime suspect is Tucker's mother who had an affair with him at the time of the murder. So I would recommend reading the books in order.
The story is fast paced and full of action, thrill, suspense and a passionate romance between two headstrong characters. The characterization is admirably done and after the first book, I already felt closer to the Braddock and McKinnon family who due to their parent's mistake is now at loggerheads despite having been friends once.
Tucker and Laine had me wishing that they solved their problems and came together like they were meant to be.
The danger part is beautifully developed by the author and she had me at the edge of my seat, speculating the next twist right till the end.
All in all, Cowboy Behind the Badge by Delores Fossen is an entertainer and I enjoyed reading it. 4 out of 5 to it and recommended to all romantic suspense lovers. I am now eager to read the other books in this series.
I received the book from the publishers via Netgalley and I am very thankful to them. The above review is my honest and unbiased opinion and in no way influenced.
Read this review and others on: http://www.njkinnysblog.com/
Another lovely and thrilling romantic suspense from Delores Fossen, this book narrates the story of Texas Ranger Tucker McKinnon and Laine Braddock whom we met in the first book and know that they were once lovers and now separated because of the enmity between their families. But when danger brings Laine to Tucker's door, he is determined to save her.
While this book is a separate story but still there is a background story of Laine's father's murder and the prime suspect is Tucker's mother who had an affair with him at the time of the murder. So I would recommend reading the books in order.
The story is fast paced and full of action, thrill, suspense and a passionate romance between two headstrong characters. The characterization is admirably done and after the first book, I already felt closer to the Braddock and McKinnon family who due to their parent's mistake is now at loggerheads despite having been friends once.
Tucker and Laine had me wishing that they solved their problems and came together like they were meant to be.
The danger part is beautifully developed by the author and she had me at the edge of my seat, speculating the next twist right till the end.
All in all, Cowboy Behind the Badge by Delores Fossen is an entertainer and I enjoyed reading it. 4 out of 5 to it and recommended to all romantic suspense lovers. I am now eager to read the other books in this series.
I received the book from the publishers via Netgalley and I am very thankful to them. The above review is my honest and unbiased opinion and in no way influenced.
Read this review and others on: http://www.njkinnysblog.com/
October 1, 2014
4 STARS
Lots of suspense, drama, action in a fast paced story. One major love scene. Family of Characters that you want to see more of.
Texas ranger Tucker McKinnon story. He is single. Has two close brothers that are also lawman. He has his own house on the family ranch. He is single.
Laine Braddock she is single. She goes to Tucker for help and protection even if their families hate each other.
Sweetwater Ranch series is that when their parents were having problems. Their mom years ago had an affair with Laine's father he was murdered. The prime suspect is Tucker's mother. She took the twin baby girls away and later remarried. Now evidence has come to light and she turned herself in. Her daughters and stepsons has come to the ranch to prove her innocent.
This plot line Laine goes to Tucker for help with twin babies. She witnessed a murder by two men dressed as cops with a police scanner. Someone wants Laine silenced and the babies back.
Lots of action and when things start to calm down there is more violence and action. Fast easy read that keeps your attention.
I was given this ebook to read by Net Galley and Harlequin. In return I agreed to give honest review of it.
Lots of suspense, drama, action in a fast paced story. One major love scene. Family of Characters that you want to see more of.
Texas ranger Tucker McKinnon story. He is single. Has two close brothers that are also lawman. He has his own house on the family ranch. He is single.
Laine Braddock she is single. She goes to Tucker for help and protection even if their families hate each other.
Sweetwater Ranch series is that when their parents were having problems. Their mom years ago had an affair with Laine's father he was murdered. The prime suspect is Tucker's mother. She took the twin baby girls away and later remarried. Now evidence has come to light and she turned herself in. Her daughters and stepsons has come to the ranch to prove her innocent.
This plot line Laine goes to Tucker for help with twin babies. She witnessed a murder by two men dressed as cops with a police scanner. Someone wants Laine silenced and the babies back.
Lots of action and when things start to calm down there is more violence and action. Fast easy read that keeps your attention.
I was given this ebook to read by Net Galley and Harlequin. In return I agreed to give honest review of it.
February 4, 2015
In Fossen’s romantic suspense novel, Texas Ranger Tucker McKinnon is stunned to discover two infants sleeping in his pantry. But the most emotion provoking intruder to his ranch is his former sweetheart Laine Braddock who coincidentally, is the person who spirited the babies to their current location. Once inseparable, they were torn apart by a murder that divided the two families. In all of his years in law enforcement, Tucker has never felt more powerless—and determined—than now. With a killer close on Laine’s heels, Tucker sets out on a journey of discovery revealing shared feelings they both still have for each other and some shocking truths he didn’t expect.
An intense story of two newborns in jeopardy that manage to bring together two former lovers in the second installment to the Sweetwater Ranch series.
An intense story of two newborns in jeopardy that manage to bring together two former lovers in the second installment to the Sweetwater Ranch series.
October 9, 2014
I loved this book and the main characters in this book. The author has a way of writing that makes you feel like you are right there in the story with them. Laine and Tucker are suppose to be enemies, but even as kids they felt the strong pull between. Now as adults they are thrown together in a dangerous situation. As they set out to find who is trying to kill them they can no longer deny the attraction between them. There is plenty of mystery with the sweet romance to balance it out. I look forward to the next book in the series.
I was given a copy by the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
I was given a copy by the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
March 31, 2016
tucker McKinnon is surpised when he comes home and laine braddock is in his house. laine was the first girl tucker kissed and there is bad blood between the two families.he is even more surprised she has 2 newborn twins with her.than the story of a women meeting her at her office and is shot and thrown in the trunk of a car he last words to laine was to protect her babies..tucker was involved with closing down baby farms and so was laine till he had her fired.as people start to show up and try to kill them to get to the babies they must work together to protect the babies...this book has a lot of action and is from the sweetwater ranch series but can be as a read alone book......
October 24, 2015
After reading Maverick Sheriff I had to learn what happened to the other siblings… did they find love? Did they find their lost child? Did things go haywire? I had so many questions that needed answers and there wasn’t enough information given to me in reading other reviews so I went the best route I could, reading the books. As soon as I read the description of this book my blood started pumping faster and faster with excitement to read.
March 9, 2016
One of the best Series I've read so far from Delorse Fossen is her Sweet Water Series. The second book Cowboy Behind the Badge was a heart stopping book to read; I really couldn't put it down. The base of the book was Heart Wrenching because it involved innocent babies and a tragic death for one family and hated of another. Bit in the end what really counted is two people where brought together again with two very special little ones found a new family.
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