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Texas Lawmen #1
Beware the Ranger
Twelve years ago, Kaitlyn Russell had a dream: living happily ever after with Clay Morgan. Except her grandmother had bigger plans for her beloved granddaughter and they didn't include life in the small town of McKenna Springs as the wife of a young, poor deputy. Kaitlyn's heart was broken when Clay and her grandmother convinced her to pursue her second love, Broadway stardom.
Texas Ranger Clay Morgan is a widower with a young son to raise. A dozen years before, he had to make the most difficult decision of his life when he agreed to let go of the only woman he'd ever loved so that she could pursue her dreams.
Now, fate and an old woman’s guilty conscience conspire to bring Clay and Kaitlyn back together once more. Will they be able to lay the past to rest and rekindle their love from the ashes?
Texas Ranger Clay Morgan is a widower with a young son to raise. A dozen years before, he had to make the most difficult decision of his life when he agreed to let go of the only woman he'd ever loved so that she could pursue her dreams.
Now, fate and an old woman’s guilty conscience conspire to bring Clay and Kaitlyn back together once more. Will they be able to lay the past to rest and rekindle their love from the ashes?
338 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 27, 2017
682 people are currently reading
538 people want to read
About the author
Debra Holt
32 books339 followersBorn and raised in the Lone Star state of Texas, Debra grew up among horses, cowboys, wide open spaces, and real Texas Rangers. Pride in her state and ancestry knows no bounds and it is these heroes and heroines she loves to write about the most. She also draws upon a variety of life experiences including working with abused children, caring for baby animals at a major zoo, and planning high-end weddings (ah, romance!).
Debra's real pride and joys, however, are her son, an aspiring film actor, and a daughter with aspirations to join the Federal Bureau of Investigation. (more story ideas!) When she isn't busy writing about tall Texans and feisty heroines, she can be found cheering on her Texas Tech Red Raiders, or heading off on another cruise adventure. She read her first romance...Janet Dailey's Fiesta San Antonio, over thirty years ago and became hooked on the genre. Writing contemporary romances, is both her passion and dream come true, and she hopes her books will bring smiles...and sighs... to all who believe in happily-ever-after's.
Debra invites you to visit her website at www.debraholtbooks.com. She loves to hear from other aspiring authors or readers via email at debraholtbooks@gmail.com.
Debra's real pride and joys, however, are her son, an aspiring film actor, and a daughter with aspirations to join the Federal Bureau of Investigation. (more story ideas!) When she isn't busy writing about tall Texans and feisty heroines, she can be found cheering on her Texas Tech Red Raiders, or heading off on another cruise adventure. She read her first romance...Janet Dailey's Fiesta San Antonio, over thirty years ago and became hooked on the genre. Writing contemporary romances, is both her passion and dream come true, and she hopes her books will bring smiles...and sighs... to all who believe in happily-ever-after's.
Debra invites you to visit her website at www.debraholtbooks.com. She loves to hear from other aspiring authors or readers via email at debraholtbooks@gmail.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 116 reviews
June 29, 2017
This is a heart warming second-chance romance that I thoroughly enjoyed reading.
Ill health has struck Kaitlyn Russell’s grandmother and made her question her actions from twelve years ago when she interfered in Kaitlyn’s life, encouraging her to leave the town of McKenna Springs to become a Broadway actress. The old lady had spoken to Clay Morgan, Kaitlyn’s love, and convinced him to let Kaitlyn go, to let her spread her wings and see what she could achieve. Neither asked Kaitlyn what she really wanted and she was heartbroken. What made it worse was that shortly after she left, Clay married and had a son. Kaitlyn has never returned home since then, though her Gran has regularly visited and holidayed with her. Now the old lady is scheming again, this time to reunite the two.
With secrets, hidden motives, emotional turmoil and great acting to hide feelings, this is a delightful read. The characters are easy to relate to and knowing how they’re all feeling but hiding their emotions from the others makes it such a moving story. It is a story of past mistakes, good intentions leading to heartbreak and showing it is important to let people make decisions for themselves rather than getting them to live up to someone else’s opinion of what their dreams are. I’m looking forward to reading more in this series in future, hopefully continuing the story of Angie and Jace!
I requested and was lucky enough to be gifted a copy of this novel via NetGalley; this is my honest opinion after choosing to read it.
Ill health has struck Kaitlyn Russell’s grandmother and made her question her actions from twelve years ago when she interfered in Kaitlyn’s life, encouraging her to leave the town of McKenna Springs to become a Broadway actress. The old lady had spoken to Clay Morgan, Kaitlyn’s love, and convinced him to let Kaitlyn go, to let her spread her wings and see what she could achieve. Neither asked Kaitlyn what she really wanted and she was heartbroken. What made it worse was that shortly after she left, Clay married and had a son. Kaitlyn has never returned home since then, though her Gran has regularly visited and holidayed with her. Now the old lady is scheming again, this time to reunite the two.
With secrets, hidden motives, emotional turmoil and great acting to hide feelings, this is a delightful read. The characters are easy to relate to and knowing how they’re all feeling but hiding their emotions from the others makes it such a moving story. It is a story of past mistakes, good intentions leading to heartbreak and showing it is important to let people make decisions for themselves rather than getting them to live up to someone else’s opinion of what their dreams are. I’m looking forward to reading more in this series in future, hopefully continuing the story of Angie and Jace!
I requested and was lucky enough to be gifted a copy of this novel via NetGalley; this is my honest opinion after choosing to read it.
June 22, 2017
Clay and Kaitlyn were meant to be together, but ended up growing apart. When fate and a wily old woman bring them together again, will they grab onto the chance they missed? No matter how many times I come across a second chance romance, the spark never fades. The heart wants what it wants and if it's meant to be, love will find a way. Such a sweet message of faith in an overly cynical world. Ms. Holt proves that we are never too old to dream.
October 2, 2018
Mundane
Have you ever turned on a soap opera but despite not watching it for several years, you still have a good idea of what’s going on? That’s kinda how I’d describe “Beware the Ranger” by Debra Holt.
Kaitlyn returns home after a 12 year absence. We learn that she’s avoided home because this guy she loved to pieces, Clay, dumped her. Apparently, he dumped her because Kaitlyn’s grandmother convinced him that it would be better for her to move to NYC to become a broadway star rather than become a wife and mother. Twelve years later, grandma has a sudden change of heart and finagles Clay and Kaitlyn under the same roof for a few days.
Sparks do not fly. They try to ignite but fail miserably, either by nothing happening or a disruption when things look like they’re finally picking up (like an owl flying by, a leaf blowing in the wind, and god forbid, a cell phone ringing!). For me, the plot never took off and was mired in a pit of mundanity (circular internal dialogue that goes on and on and on, hospital scenes where nothing happens, non starter issues each character is stuck in). Basically, the whole book is him saying, “I have to let her go so she can chase her Broadway dream” and her saying, “ I have to leave because he doesn’t want me but sends me mixed messages that make me want to have his babies but I’m confused so I’m just gonna go back to Broadway.” I mean, it’s totes ok for a girl to pursue her dream, but if you really love each other, you can still try to make it work! It’s not like he was gonna propose the next day. How about if he relocates? There are viable options, people! Instead, these characters just accept their nonstarter fate, and that’s just frankly...unacceptable! To quote a successful entrepreneur, “stupid is as stupid does”. Can’t help you if you won’t help yourselves.
They don’t get together until the very end, at which point I really can’t give a damn anymore. As a matter of fact, I “fast forwarded” and skipped ahead by many, many pages, but I didn’t miss any important developments!
I’m giving this 2 stars because although boring, at least the grammar and editing wasn’t horrible. Zzzz.
Have you ever turned on a soap opera but despite not watching it for several years, you still have a good idea of what’s going on? That’s kinda how I’d describe “Beware the Ranger” by Debra Holt.
Kaitlyn returns home after a 12 year absence. We learn that she’s avoided home because this guy she loved to pieces, Clay, dumped her. Apparently, he dumped her because Kaitlyn’s grandmother convinced him that it would be better for her to move to NYC to become a broadway star rather than become a wife and mother. Twelve years later, grandma has a sudden change of heart and finagles Clay and Kaitlyn under the same roof for a few days.
Sparks do not fly. They try to ignite but fail miserably, either by nothing happening or a disruption when things look like they’re finally picking up (like an owl flying by, a leaf blowing in the wind, and god forbid, a cell phone ringing!). For me, the plot never took off and was mired in a pit of mundanity (circular internal dialogue that goes on and on and on, hospital scenes where nothing happens, non starter issues each character is stuck in). Basically, the whole book is him saying, “I have to let her go so she can chase her Broadway dream” and her saying, “ I have to leave because he doesn’t want me but sends me mixed messages that make me want to have his babies but I’m confused so I’m just gonna go back to Broadway.” I mean, it’s totes ok for a girl to pursue her dream, but if you really love each other, you can still try to make it work! It’s not like he was gonna propose the next day. How about if he relocates? There are viable options, people! Instead, these characters just accept their nonstarter fate, and that’s just frankly...unacceptable! To quote a successful entrepreneur, “stupid is as stupid does”. Can’t help you if you won’t help yourselves.
They don’t get together until the very end, at which point I really can’t give a damn anymore. As a matter of fact, I “fast forwarded” and skipped ahead by many, many pages, but I didn’t miss any important developments!
I’m giving this 2 stars because although boring, at least the grammar and editing wasn’t horrible. Zzzz.
October 30, 2017
Kate Russell has been tracked down by Clay a man she never wanted to see again. As the helicopter lands and Kate and her friend Angie on the side of the road what could possible go wrong? Neither one was expecting the past to jump back into their hearts. He lost Kate once can he see her leave again? What about Joshua he has fallen for Kate and wants her as his mom.
A great story of second chances and love. The characters were great and I liked how Clay tried his best to do everyone right. Sometimes you do have to let things go and see what happens. The setting was beautiful the way the author describes the surroundings make the reader feel like they are right there in the story with the characters. A great start to a series.
A great story of second chances and love. The characters were great and I liked how Clay tried his best to do everyone right. Sometimes you do have to let things go and see what happens. The setting was beautiful the way the author describes the surroundings make the reader feel like they are right there in the story with the characters. A great start to a series.
June 20, 2017
I voluntarily read a advanced reader's copy of this book.
Beware the Ranger by Debra Holt. Book one In the Long Arms of the lawman romance series. Could not put this second chance at romance book down once I started it. A heart-warming story. I'm looking forward to reading more of this series.
Beware the Ranger by Debra Holt. Book one In the Long Arms of the lawman romance series. Could not put this second chance at romance book down once I started it. A heart-warming story. I'm looking forward to reading more of this series.
November 9, 2018
Loved it
I love this story. Can't wait to get the rest.. Thank u for a amazing book. Once I started I couldn't stop..
I love this story. Can't wait to get the rest.. Thank u for a amazing book. Once I started I couldn't stop..
July 8, 2017
Twelve years ago Kaitlyn Russell and Clay Morgan were young, in love and had their future all planned out until her grandmother interfered. Now Kaitlyn is back in Texas because her grandmother is determined to make things right for the pair. Will Kaitlyn be able to forgive Clay for making her follow her dreams of Broadway stardom, so they can have another shot at happy ever after; or will she return to her life and continue to fly solo?
This is the first book I've read by Ms. Holt, and the moment I finished this book, I definitely wished I could read the next story in the series right away due to the secondary characters in Clay and Kaitlyn's good friends -- Angie and Jace. The way this story started drew me into this story immediately, because Kaitlyn's grandma is determined to make things right for her granddaughter after robbing her of her happiness years ago because she believed what she did was right. However, it was from the moment the hero and heroine come face-to-face for the first time in years where this story had me hooked and determined to discover what this couple would go through on their journey to happy ever after. Will Clay be able to earn Kaitlyn's forgiveness?
The dialogue was intense and so enjoyable that I could not put this book down, especially from the moment these two came face-to-face and how Clay pushes Kaitlyn to do the right thing for her grandma when it comes to staying. Then there's the friendship between Kaitlyn and her friend, Angie, who wants the heroine to find happiness; the kind of happiness only Clay can bring her. Certainly, the secondary characters charmed me with their matchmaking, their desire to have Kaitlyn stay and I liked how they helped Clay when it seemed all hope was lost. That the love of his life would leave again.
Both the main characters were captivating, and I loved the will-Kaitlyn-forgive-Clay-or-will-she-not emotional roller-coaster this story took me on due to what she believes he did. Moreover, the heroine is strong and brave by finally confronting the past, even though discovering what she believed about Clay wasn't easy to accept, especially when she was so wrong. I also liked how kind and caring she was towards Clay's son who she had an incredible bond with, because the boy wanted someone for he and his dad to share their life with. Yet, what I liked most of all about the heroine was how feisty she was towards Clay in the beginning, because she was still so hurt after what happened between them years ago.
While Clay, he's worked hard to get to where he is and is good at his job as a Texas Ranger. He's also honorable in what he did for the wife of a friend, because of the guilt he felt over what happened to his friend. Then there's the way he's up to the challenge Kaitlyn presents for him, because he wants a second chance. Will he win her forgiveness? Yet, what I liked most about the hero is how good of a dad he is towards his son and that he would do anything to protect the boy. What happens if his son gets too attached to Kaitlyn?
Overall, Ms. Holt has penned a brilliant read in this book where the chemistry was intense, the romance on the sweet side and the ending wrapped this story up perfectly, because Clay will do anything to have a second chance with Kaitlyn. Furthermore, I loved the words he says to her to get her to see that he never stopped loving her, especially when he talks about the past and what he did to make certain that the sacrifice he made was a good decision. However, it was the epilogue that left me with a smile, as Kaitlyn isn't afraid to do a little of her own matchmaking since everything worked out so well for her and Clay. I would recommend Beware the Ranger by Debra Holt, if you enjoy second chance romances or books by authors Jane Porter, Jeannie Moon or Sarah Mayberry.
July 5, 2017
This is a voluntary review of an advanced copy.
When Clay is asked to bring his old love, Kaitlyn, to see her grandmother who is going into the hospital, you know that old feelings are going to surface! Poor Kaitlyn, coming back home after Clay really made sure that she left town for her chance on Broadway and to do that he was pretty cruel to her young heart.
Years later, Kaitlyn’s grandmother is having doubts that she did the right thing when she told Clay to let Kaitlyn go and wants to “fix” what she broke. My only complaint about this book is that Kaitlyn never confronts her grandmother for making assumptions about what Kaitlyn needed in her life and being so cruel when she sent Kaitlyn the newspaper clippings of Clay’s marriage, and his son’s birth announcement. That seemed so heartless, and yet we never hear why the grandmother sent them or have Kaitlyn express any anger toward her grandmother.
There were times that I wanted to hit Clay when he would say something that hurt Kaitlyn and he just did not get the fact that his words were so hurtful! He seemed clueless about how his marriage and son would affect Kaitlyn and he never talked to her about it until pretty late into the book. If my old boyfriend got married a few months after breaking my heart, I don’t think I would visit home either!
I knew there had to be a story behind Clay’s marriage and I can see how the events transpired and that Clay would want to do what he felt was the honorable thing. Not sure what Clay was thinking when he built Kaitlyn’s dream house, I would have thought that would have made his life even sadder to spend every day living there.
I loved that both Clay and Kaitlyn had such good friends in Angie and Jace. Angie was there to support Kaitlyn through the whole visit and helped deal with her thoughts and emotions. Jace is going to have his hands full with Angie if their interactions are any indication of their future encounters! The ending was great because Kaitlyn got her wish fulfilled the second time she left – unlike the first time, when she left alone and Clay did not follow. I had so many emotions throughout the story but the ending was a great as it was such a happy moment for Clay and Kaitlyn.
When Clay is asked to bring his old love, Kaitlyn, to see her grandmother who is going into the hospital, you know that old feelings are going to surface! Poor Kaitlyn, coming back home after Clay really made sure that she left town for her chance on Broadway and to do that he was pretty cruel to her young heart.
Years later, Kaitlyn’s grandmother is having doubts that she did the right thing when she told Clay to let Kaitlyn go and wants to “fix” what she broke. My only complaint about this book is that Kaitlyn never confronts her grandmother for making assumptions about what Kaitlyn needed in her life and being so cruel when she sent Kaitlyn the newspaper clippings of Clay’s marriage, and his son’s birth announcement. That seemed so heartless, and yet we never hear why the grandmother sent them or have Kaitlyn express any anger toward her grandmother.
There were times that I wanted to hit Clay when he would say something that hurt Kaitlyn and he just did not get the fact that his words were so hurtful! He seemed clueless about how his marriage and son would affect Kaitlyn and he never talked to her about it until pretty late into the book. If my old boyfriend got married a few months after breaking my heart, I don’t think I would visit home either!
I knew there had to be a story behind Clay’s marriage and I can see how the events transpired and that Clay would want to do what he felt was the honorable thing. Not sure what Clay was thinking when he built Kaitlyn’s dream house, I would have thought that would have made his life even sadder to spend every day living there.
I loved that both Clay and Kaitlyn had such good friends in Angie and Jace. Angie was there to support Kaitlyn through the whole visit and helped deal with her thoughts and emotions. Jace is going to have his hands full with Angie if their interactions are any indication of their future encounters! The ending was great because Kaitlyn got her wish fulfilled the second time she left – unlike the first time, when she left alone and Clay did not follow. I had so many emotions throughout the story but the ending was a great as it was such a happy moment for Clay and Kaitlyn.
June 29, 2017
Kaitlyn Russell’s dream 12 years ago was to be with local deputy Clay Morgan. Her grandmother had other dreams for her and they did include being in a small Texas town to a local deputy. Her dream was for her granddaughter to be a star on Broadway. Now 12 years later she has come to Texas Ranger Clay Morgan and tell him that what she had done 12 years ago was wrong and she wants to try to fix a wrong. She is going in for surgery and she would like Clay to get a hold of Kaitlyn who is on a road trip driving through Texas bypassing her home town on her way to New Mexico with her best friend Angie. When she cannot believe that she is being pulled over, what really gets her next is when a helicopter arrives and none other than Clay Morgan himself gets outs and walks towards her and her friend Angie cannot believe that she has kept him a secret. Now she wishes Clay would have been one of those men that got bald, with a gut, but no he still has great hair, and damn him to bits but those jeans fit better now than they did 12 years ago. To top it off he became a Texas Ranger his dream. She also knows that he is married as well and has a child. At dinner that night feeling spunky she asks where the women of the house is being kept in a very snarky way and he tells her in the family cemetery plot. Feeling worse she has nothing to say and Clay leaves. Finally able to talk to her grandmother her grandmother finally tells her what she had done, and though it hurts, it’s not until later in the book when you find out that he went to New York to see hear perform, and the things that transpired because of that trip. Now it is up to the two of them to work it out and they do still love each other they must find a way. Read this good story to find out what happens. I got this book from Netgalley.com I gave it 5 stars. Follow us at www.1rad-readerreviews.com
April 5, 2019
Hotness Rating 2 out of 5
I loved this book! It started out a bit slow and I can honestly say I thought a few times "get on with it, already". But, I am so glad I stuck it out. So good!
Clay was an amazing man. Strong and honorable. You could tell he loved Kaitlyn so much but he just really sucked at speaking up and telling her everything. I don't understand this and sadly it's typical in real life so it's definitely not a book thing. I just wanted to shake him and say speak up and you will solve all of your problems. I mean he seemed like a smart man and he was a ranger to boot - how could he not deduce that Kaitlyn put two and two together and assumed he had cheated? Ugh men!
Kaitlyn was a great character as well. You definitely never got the "I'm a star. Bow to me" vibe. Thank goodness. I always struggle with that. I also loved that she fell for Clay's son immediately and never held against him what she considered his father's transgressions. He was a sweet kid and created a bond with her almost immediately.
The peripheral characters were so much fun! Gran was a character and Angie was fantastic. I can't wait to read her story.
I loved this book! It started out a bit slow and I can honestly say I thought a few times "get on with it, already". But, I am so glad I stuck it out. So good!
Clay was an amazing man. Strong and honorable. You could tell he loved Kaitlyn so much but he just really sucked at speaking up and telling her everything. I don't understand this and sadly it's typical in real life so it's definitely not a book thing. I just wanted to shake him and say speak up and you will solve all of your problems. I mean he seemed like a smart man and he was a ranger to boot - how could he not deduce that Kaitlyn put two and two together and assumed he had cheated? Ugh men!
Kaitlyn was a great character as well. You definitely never got the "I'm a star. Bow to me" vibe. Thank goodness. I always struggle with that. I also loved that she fell for Clay's son immediately and never held against him what she considered his father's transgressions. He was a sweet kid and created a bond with her almost immediately.
The peripheral characters were so much fun! Gran was a character and Angie was fantastic. I can't wait to read her story.
March 10, 2019
Beware The Ranger by Debra Holt is a great second-chance western romance. Ms. Holt has given readers a well-written book. I love the characters. Kaitlyn is a famous actress on Broadway. Clay is a Texas Ranger. When Kaitlyn and her friend make a stop in Texas on their way to New Mexico, Clay is tasked with bringing her home because her grandmother is ill. Clay and Kaitlyn's story is loaded with drama, humor and spice. I enjoyed reading Beware The Ranger and look forward to reading more from Debra Holt in the future. Beware The Ranger is book 1 of the Texas Lawmen Series but can easily be read as a standalone. This is a complete book, not a cliff-hanger.
March 25, 2020
2nd chance romance, the hard way
A heartwarming, slow burn of a second chance romance. Loved the characters and the storyline but they sure were slow to get to actually having the conversation they should have had much earlier... hence the slow burn.
A heartwarming, slow burn of a second chance romance. Loved the characters and the storyline but they sure were slow to get to actually having the conversation they should have had much earlier... hence the slow burn.
January 8, 2020
Awesome book!
At times I wanted to hit both Clay and Kaitlyn. The author pulls your heart strings constantly and gives you a great ending.
At times I wanted to hit both Clay and Kaitlyn. The author pulls your heart strings constantly and gives you a great ending.
May 4, 2020
Good read
June 29, 2017
Reviewed at Keeper Bookshelf
What an astounding romance Beware The Ranger is. To be frank, this is the type of story behind the reasons I read Romance of any genre.
There was a time when Kat and Clay would have built their lives around each other. Young love but true love was on their side. Add into the mix a meddling grandmother, one who loved her granddaughter and wanted her to achieve her dreams… even if she got what her true dream really was so totally wrong. And one young man who took a wise woman’s words to heart and let his love for this young girl take second place to allowing her to fly free to try out her dreams. Sad thing is… no one asked the young girl what she truly wanted, and it certainly wasn’t what she got in the end.
Fast forward to a little over a decade and our no longer starry eyed lovers meet again, again by the grandmother’s design. Only this time she’s trying to make amends for her actions, decisions that weren’t hers to make. Kaitlyn had gotten her shining spot on Broadway and Clay had gotten his Texas Ranger star. Along the way he’d also had a wife and child. That his wife died and left him with a son to be both mother and father to was simply Clay’s life now. Yet, one woman held out the possibility of a second chance with the woman he’d never stopped loving. Not a do over, that could never happen, but maybe there was enough love left to have that dream. Trouble with that idea is that both Kat and Clay are extremely stubborn people. And when no one talks about the past, Kat makes assumptions. Choices that could cost her that true dream of hers once again.
I was blown away by this story, the emotions it invokes and the slow unveiling of information to us, the reader, and to the characters. It truly is so well done, flows so naturally that I really didn’t want to let this story go. I believe any Romance reader would love Kat and Clay’s romance. It’s a solid story, interesting secondary characters who will probably have their own tales told soon, and an emotional journey that is simply heart-wrenching and eventually heartwarming as well. I would recommend Beware The Ranger to any reader who loves a romance that is so real to life, and so emotional that you’ll be right there in the story with the couple. It’s good, it’s very, very good.
*I received an e-ARC of this novel from the publisher via NetGalley. That does not change what I think of this story. It is my choice to leave a review giving my personal opinion about this book.*
What an astounding romance Beware The Ranger is. To be frank, this is the type of story behind the reasons I read Romance of any genre.
There was a time when Kat and Clay would have built their lives around each other. Young love but true love was on their side. Add into the mix a meddling grandmother, one who loved her granddaughter and wanted her to achieve her dreams… even if she got what her true dream really was so totally wrong. And one young man who took a wise woman’s words to heart and let his love for this young girl take second place to allowing her to fly free to try out her dreams. Sad thing is… no one asked the young girl what she truly wanted, and it certainly wasn’t what she got in the end.
Fast forward to a little over a decade and our no longer starry eyed lovers meet again, again by the grandmother’s design. Only this time she’s trying to make amends for her actions, decisions that weren’t hers to make. Kaitlyn had gotten her shining spot on Broadway and Clay had gotten his Texas Ranger star. Along the way he’d also had a wife and child. That his wife died and left him with a son to be both mother and father to was simply Clay’s life now. Yet, one woman held out the possibility of a second chance with the woman he’d never stopped loving. Not a do over, that could never happen, but maybe there was enough love left to have that dream. Trouble with that idea is that both Kat and Clay are extremely stubborn people. And when no one talks about the past, Kat makes assumptions. Choices that could cost her that true dream of hers once again.
I was blown away by this story, the emotions it invokes and the slow unveiling of information to us, the reader, and to the characters. It truly is so well done, flows so naturally that I really didn’t want to let this story go. I believe any Romance reader would love Kat and Clay’s romance. It’s a solid story, interesting secondary characters who will probably have their own tales told soon, and an emotional journey that is simply heart-wrenching and eventually heartwarming as well. I would recommend Beware The Ranger to any reader who loves a romance that is so real to life, and so emotional that you’ll be right there in the story with the couple. It’s good, it’s very, very good.
*I received an e-ARC of this novel from the publisher via NetGalley. That does not change what I think of this story. It is my choice to leave a review giving my personal opinion about this book.*
June 29, 2017
Beware the Ranger by Debra Holt
Twelve years ago, Kaitlyn Russell had a dream: living happily ever after with Clay Morgan. Except her grandmother had bigger plans for her beloved granddaughter and they didn’t include life in the small town of McKenna Springs as the wife of a young, poor deputy. Kaitlyn’s heart was broken when Clay and her grandmother convinced her to pursue her second love, Broadway stardom.
Texas Ranger Clay Morgan is a widower with a young son to raise. A dozen years before, he had to make the most difficult decision of his life when he agreed to let go of the only woman he’d ever loved so that she could pursue her dreams.
Now, fate and an old woman’s guilty conscience conspire to bring Clay and Kaitlyn back together once more. Will they be able to lay the past to rest and rekindle their love from the ashes?
this is Kaitlyn Russell and Clay Morgan's story.
Kaitlyn Russell. It was because of him that she stayed away from her hometown. Her actions made it clear she wanted nothing to do with him. He should be glad of that.
“Kaitlyn’s in Texas.”
Georgia “I need you Clay to find Kaitlyn. Bring her here. She won’t come if I ask her. I’ve done that plenty over the years. That’s why I’ve always gone to New York. But that’s not possible for me now. Since she’s in Texas, I figure it would be easy for you to find her and bring her home. For just a few days, of course.”
Will Kaitlyn and Clay be able to lay the past to rest and rekindle their love from the ashes?
I highly recommend reading.
Beware the Ranger by Debra Holt is a wonderful well written 4 star book.
"I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book."
Debra's Books with Tule:
Beware the Ranger
Texas Lawmen
Twelve years ago, Kaitlyn Russell had a dream: living happily ever after with Clay Morgan. Except her grandmother had bigger plans for her beloved granddaughter and they didn’t include life in the small town of McKenna Springs as the wife of a young, poor deputy. Kaitlyn’s heart was broken when Clay and her grandmother convinced her to pursue her second love, Broadway stardom.
Texas Ranger Clay Morgan is a widower with a young son to raise. A dozen years before, he had to make the most difficult decision of his life when he agreed to let go of the only woman he’d ever loved so that she could pursue her dreams.
Now, fate and an old woman’s guilty conscience conspire to bring Clay and Kaitlyn back together once more. Will they be able to lay the past to rest and rekindle their love from the ashes?
this is Kaitlyn Russell and Clay Morgan's story.
Kaitlyn Russell. It was because of him that she stayed away from her hometown. Her actions made it clear she wanted nothing to do with him. He should be glad of that.
“Kaitlyn’s in Texas.”
Georgia “I need you Clay to find Kaitlyn. Bring her here. She won’t come if I ask her. I’ve done that plenty over the years. That’s why I’ve always gone to New York. But that’s not possible for me now. Since she’s in Texas, I figure it would be easy for you to find her and bring her home. For just a few days, of course.”
Will Kaitlyn and Clay be able to lay the past to rest and rekindle their love from the ashes?
I highly recommend reading.
Beware the Ranger by Debra Holt is a wonderful well written 4 star book.
"I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book."
Debra's Books with Tule:
Beware the Ranger
Texas Lawmen
June 27, 2017
Kaitlyn went to New York to follow her dream? She is on a road trip with her best friend and is summoned home for her grandmother and she is not happy about going back to the one place she never wanted to go back to and come face to face she wants to never see again. Clay has been in love with one girl his whole life but for the best of all involved he watched her walk away. When 12 years go by and he is now forced to face a past he would rather leave in the past he knows he can control his emotions and set everything aside to help gram. But will the past be to much for both of them?
I loved this fun cowboy story. I really enjoyed reading this sweet love story. They both seemed to skirt around the biggest issue throughout the book, but the chemistry between them really popped through out the story. There is no strong language in this book however there is a some adult talk in the book, other then that its a good clean read. I am excited to know more of Angie's story. Also there is one issue in the that I was not sure were were ever going to find out that happened however you do find out and its not what you think which was fun since it added another twist in an already fun story. If you are looking for a fun love story with lots of heartbreak and healing or over all just a fun love story you won't be disappointed.
I loved this fun cowboy story. I really enjoyed reading this sweet love story. They both seemed to skirt around the biggest issue throughout the book, but the chemistry between them really popped through out the story. There is no strong language in this book however there is a some adult talk in the book, other then that its a good clean read. I am excited to know more of Angie's story. Also there is one issue in the that I was not sure were were ever going to find out that happened however you do find out and its not what you think which was fun since it added another twist in an already fun story. If you are looking for a fun love story with lots of heartbreak and healing or over all just a fun love story you won't be disappointed.
October 27, 2025
After reading the brief synopsis of the book, I didn't expect the story to start like it did.
What was Georgia Russell do in Clay Morgan's house? I had the impression Clay was this bad boy kind of guy and he wasn't a good match for Kaitlyn. That isn't it at all.
The part of this story that seemed to be a mystery was: Who was Missy to Clay? A baby in a few short months? Was Kaitlyn the second woman?
It seemed the history between Clay and Kaitlyn turns out to be something of a misunderstanding, starting with her grandmother - Georgia. What they thought was Kaitlyn's dream turned out to be an entirely different story. They weren't her dreams. It pays to ask questions to keep the heartbreak from happening.
"The baby... that baby she was expecting... it was his biological father!" Somehow Clay thought he could do the right thing... somehow make it up to everyone. He owed it to his buddy... He would give them a home. A few minutes after Joshua Allan was born...
"I gave you my heart a long, long time ago, Kat. And I built that house... I thought that maybe one day, you would come back to me and come home where you belong."
"Forever and a day. We will live our dream... together. I will love you forever. Let's go home."
What was Georgia Russell do in Clay Morgan's house? I had the impression Clay was this bad boy kind of guy and he wasn't a good match for Kaitlyn. That isn't it at all.
The part of this story that seemed to be a mystery was: Who was Missy to Clay? A baby in a few short months? Was Kaitlyn the second woman?
It seemed the history between Clay and Kaitlyn turns out to be something of a misunderstanding, starting with her grandmother - Georgia. What they thought was Kaitlyn's dream turned out to be an entirely different story. They weren't her dreams. It pays to ask questions to keep the heartbreak from happening.
"The baby... that baby she was expecting... it was his biological father!" Somehow Clay thought he could do the right thing... somehow make it up to everyone. He owed it to his buddy... He would give them a home. A few minutes after Joshua Allan was born...
"I gave you my heart a long, long time ago, Kat. And I built that house... I thought that maybe one day, you would come back to me and come home where you belong."
"Forever and a day. We will live our dream... together. I will love you forever. Let's go home."
October 13, 2018
Sexy Texan
Absolutely amazing book. Debra Holt has hit a bullseye with this story of love and second chances. Actions brought about by honour and ‘doing the right thing’ along with misunderstandings devastated two hearts many years ago.
Clay is the ultimate hero, lawman, loyal and honest to a fault with friends and family but when it comes to his heart that’s a completely different story. That he sacrificed for the better good, or was it?
Kaitlyn was living the life her grandmother had planned out for her, not venturing back home to Texas because of her memories and broken heart, how could she face her lost love and live again? It just wouldn’t happen.
I adore all of the characters is this book, they have depth and history, emotions and feelings that I felt right along with them through laughter and tears. An author that can have me living the story has done an amazing job. Well done Debra, I felt I was right there, immersed in story.
This book is worthy of a definite 5+ star rating. Can’t wait to read the next instalment of these Texas Lawmen.
Absolutely amazing book. Debra Holt has hit a bullseye with this story of love and second chances. Actions brought about by honour and ‘doing the right thing’ along with misunderstandings devastated two hearts many years ago.
Clay is the ultimate hero, lawman, loyal and honest to a fault with friends and family but when it comes to his heart that’s a completely different story. That he sacrificed for the better good, or was it?
Kaitlyn was living the life her grandmother had planned out for her, not venturing back home to Texas because of her memories and broken heart, how could she face her lost love and live again? It just wouldn’t happen.
I adore all of the characters is this book, they have depth and history, emotions and feelings that I felt right along with them through laughter and tears. An author that can have me living the story has done an amazing job. Well done Debra, I felt I was right there, immersed in story.
This book is worthy of a definite 5+ star rating. Can’t wait to read the next instalment of these Texas Lawmen.
June 27, 2017
This is a terrific story about how past mistakes can come back to haunt you an whether or not the mistakes can be rectified. Eighteen year old Kaitlyn was in love with twenty-two year old Clay. She knew her life was to be with him but her grandmother who raised her was determined that Kaitlyn would have her chance at acting on stage in New York. Her grandmother made Clay promise to let Kaityln go to New York. Clay did not break the promise but he did break Kaitlyn’s heart. She’s back in Texas for the first time in twelve years because her grandmother is ill. It’s Clay that finds her and drags her back. His heart is still hers even though life had intervened in the years passing. Kaitlyn was too hurt to come back and now is facing him and her still present love. But, there are too many obstacles preventing them from even seriously talking to each other. You are left wondering until the very end! Loved it!
July 29, 2017
Beware The Ranger is the first Debra Holt story I've read and I really enjoyed it. It 's the first book in her Texas Lawman series and is a sweet, clean contemporary romance.
Taking a fresh approach to the second chance at live trope, this story brings Broadway actress Kaitlyn Russell back to her Texas hometown where she finds herself thrown back into the company of Texas Ranger Clay Morgan, the man who dumped her twelve years earlier. These two are well supported throughout the story by a strong cast of support characters, all of whom are well developed and feel real.
The story is well paced, and I kept wanting to know what happened next. For me the only down side was poor copy editing with some glaring errors leaping out. At one point, Kaitlyn's Saturday afternoon job became a Saturday morning job a page or so later, while a little further on Marshall Trey Matlock became Marshall Troy Marshall a sentence later. Nit picking I know, but there you ave it. Otherwise a good story.
Taking a fresh approach to the second chance at live trope, this story brings Broadway actress Kaitlyn Russell back to her Texas hometown where she finds herself thrown back into the company of Texas Ranger Clay Morgan, the man who dumped her twelve years earlier. These two are well supported throughout the story by a strong cast of support characters, all of whom are well developed and feel real.
The story is well paced, and I kept wanting to know what happened next. For me the only down side was poor copy editing with some glaring errors leaping out. At one point, Kaitlyn's Saturday afternoon job became a Saturday morning job a page or so later, while a little further on Marshall Trey Matlock became Marshall Troy Marshall a sentence later. Nit picking I know, but there you ave it. Otherwise a good story.
June 26, 2017
This book grabbed me at the beginning and never let me go. I could have finished in a day if it wasn't for the lightning storms. I liked the way Debra wrote her story line. Be prepared to keep lots of tissues beside you! Kat and Clay were school lovers. Kat was an orphan raised by her Gran. She liked acting so Gran made Clay tell her to go to NYC and bright lights. Now 12 years later Kat has to help her friend Angie set up her new store. Clay has finally got his dream of being a Ranger! Now Gran has a heart problem and she has to come back home. It hurt sometimes when they still loved the other but won't admit it. There is another surprise that is Joshua, Clay 's son. Major Surprise! Don't let this story get away! Be glad you can read this. This is the first book. I will be waiting for the second one! I volunteered to read and review this book.
October 18, 2018
This was the best love, hate relationship. I liked the ups and down of my feelings reading this love story. It is so well written you feel a lot of the love you hope will happen. when it seems everything is lost something starts the love again. The boy is the best to. Loving the woman more of a mom instead of a woman interrupting the family that belongs to him and his father. I love Angie because I had a best friend like her and we still stay in touch with.. I would recommend this book to everyone and anyone. Thank you Debra Holt for sharing such a romantic love story. I would read it again it a so wonderful. I had a friend like her ans
I gave it five starts became its a great love storyand easy read.I would read again. The love story is
The best. I cannot tell you how I felt after I finished the book. So much love and misunderstood
I gave it five starts became its a great love storyand easy read.I would read again. The love story is
The best. I cannot tell you how I felt after I finished the book. So much love and misunderstood
October 20, 2018
Beware the Ranger
Clay fell in love with Angie and took her to her dance that night he takes her to the barn and stops making out as a gentleman he takes her home. Later he speaks to her grandmother and breaks things off with her.
Angie leaves town and never comes back. Years later she and her friend are driving through Texas and she is pulled over and detained. Shortly after a helicopter lands and out comes Clay.
Angie’s grandma has asked him to fetch her, she is sick..
Good book. I enjoyed reading this.
My disclaimer...
I was given a copy of this book for my honest review.
Any book or novels I leave reviews on are not dependent on the book/novel review author’s opinion. No one influenced my voluntary review for any of the books or novels I read, they are my own opinions
Clay fell in love with Angie and took her to her dance that night he takes her to the barn and stops making out as a gentleman he takes her home. Later he speaks to her grandmother and breaks things off with her.
Angie leaves town and never comes back. Years later she and her friend are driving through Texas and she is pulled over and detained. Shortly after a helicopter lands and out comes Clay.
Angie’s grandma has asked him to fetch her, she is sick..
Good book. I enjoyed reading this.
My disclaimer...
I was given a copy of this book for my honest review.
Any book or novels I leave reviews on are not dependent on the book/novel review author’s opinion. No one influenced my voluntary review for any of the books or novels I read, they are my own opinions
September 24, 2017
I love The Texas Lawman; it is a fabulous love story. I found the sweet romance endearing and cried through the pain Ms. Holt expressed so well through her writing. The reader is left little doubt the emotions in the book as they are expressed eloquently. The twists in the story keep the reader reading to the very last page and are never left disappointed. The peak into the next book in the series was enough to get the reader to look for the story of Angelina and Jason. I highly recommend the writing of Ms. Holt and the Texas Lawmen Series.
Delane
Reviewer for Coffee Time Romance & More
Full Review @ Coffee Time Romance & More
Delane
Reviewer for Coffee Time Romance & More
Full Review @ Coffee Time Romance & More
September 5, 2025
she loved him in hs, he was older and said they would wait till they were married
but she moved and found out he had married and had a child 6 mths later, while they were still together his wife got preg
years later her grandma , who was living with him, he is a tx ranger, has to go to the hospital and wants to tell her grand daughter something. so he gets his helicopter and takes her and her friend to his house til visiting hours the next day.
she didnt know where his wife and child were, the house is the one she designed in hs
she asked him wheres his wife and he told her his wife died. she felt bad but didnt apologize , she didnt know what to say
she later apologized
he finally told her he had switched days off with another cop and that cop got killed on his watch
his wife was preg so he married her but she died. he raised the boy as his own
they were still in love and got married
her grandma was ok
but she moved and found out he had married and had a child 6 mths later, while they were still together his wife got preg
years later her grandma , who was living with him, he is a tx ranger, has to go to the hospital and wants to tell her grand daughter something. so he gets his helicopter and takes her and her friend to his house til visiting hours the next day.
she didnt know where his wife and child were, the house is the one she designed in hs
she asked him wheres his wife and he told her his wife died. she felt bad but didnt apologize , she didnt know what to say
she later apologized
he finally told her he had switched days off with another cop and that cop got killed on his watch
his wife was preg so he married her but she died. he raised the boy as his own
they were still in love and got married
her grandma was ok
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 29, 2017
Beware the Ranger by Debra Holt is part of a series that I found to be very interesting. The idea of a somewhat good intention by a meddling relative being such a heartbreak means a tissues may be needed to be on hand as you read. This is realistic with surprises that come to light after 12 years. I liked Kaitlyn and Clay, hoping that it wasn’t too late for them to find happiness.
This second chance romance is one that made me look forward to more of the Long Arms of the Lawman Series. I couldn’t find any others so this must be the first. It is a enjoyable but not overly long read.
An ARC of the book was given to me by the publisher through Net Galley.
This second chance romance is one that made me look forward to more of the Long Arms of the Lawman Series. I couldn’t find any others so this must be the first. It is a enjoyable but not overly long read.
An ARC of the book was given to me by the publisher through Net Galley.
June 30, 2017
Beware the Ranger (Texas Lawmen Book 1) by Debra Holt
This is Kaitlyn Russell and Clay Morgan's story.
This is a really sweet second chance romance. Twelve years ago Kaitlyn thought that she and Clay would marry. Due to circumstances that did not happen. Now, Kaitlyn has been summons back to McKenna Springs and has to face Clay after all these years.
There are so many secrets and hurts from the past can Clay and Kaitlyn finally get their happily ever after?
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
This is Kaitlyn Russell and Clay Morgan's story.
This is a really sweet second chance romance. Twelve years ago Kaitlyn thought that she and Clay would marry. Due to circumstances that did not happen. Now, Kaitlyn has been summons back to McKenna Springs and has to face Clay after all these years.
There are so many secrets and hurts from the past can Clay and Kaitlyn finally get their happily ever after?
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
September 30, 2018
Romance that takes you along for the ride
I am going to start by stating I have never read anything from.this author before this boob was recommended as one I would like in a bookbub email. I decided to download it amd give it a try, and I am sooo glad I did. The author takes your through the heart aching turmoil experienced by both MC. In fact, I cried the last 3 chapters or so, my heart breaking for them. Then I cried through the HEA. I loved this story, I am now loving this author, snd I can't wait to download book 2 in the series.
I am going to start by stating I have never read anything from.this author before this boob was recommended as one I would like in a bookbub email. I decided to download it amd give it a try, and I am sooo glad I did. The author takes your through the heart aching turmoil experienced by both MC. In fact, I cried the last 3 chapters or so, my heart breaking for them. Then I cried through the HEA. I loved this story, I am now loving this author, snd I can't wait to download book 2 in the series.
October 3, 2018
This basic story was good. However, a lot of this book was remembering from twelve years ago and it was in italics. Another him of this book was the author just saying what happened. I stayed with this book and finished just to see what happened. I can understand why Kay and her ranger had communication problems since the author managed to confuse me. I wound up disliking the grandmother and thinking her granddaughter was too spoiled to be taken seriously. The ranger had good looks and honor going for him but that was the Ranger part. I am thinking after twelve years he could have done better for the child. Still gave it four stars but it was probably a "yawn" three star book.
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