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Protectors of Cade County #2
The Sheriff's Secret
A sheriff with a secret
And a second chance at love
When Sheriff West Garrett is called to the site of a grisly shooting, he finds the only woman he’s ever loved crying over the body and covered in blood. He never imagined this as their someday reunion!
But Tina Ellet is the target of a crazed stalker and West is her only protection. When her infant daughter is abducted, West risks everything to save the child and prove to Tina their love is worth fighting for.
And a second chance at love
When Sheriff West Garrett is called to the site of a grisly shooting, he finds the only woman he’s ever loved crying over the body and covered in blood. He never imagined this as their someday reunion!
But Tina Ellet is the target of a crazed stalker and West is her only protection. When her infant daughter is abducted, West risks everything to save the child and prove to Tina their love is worth fighting for.
288 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published April 5, 2018
62 people are currently reading
68 people want to read
About the author
Julie Anne Lindsey
171 books1,474 followersJulie Anne Lindsey- Hatcher is an award-winning and bestselling author of cozy mystery and romantic suspense. She’s published more than sixty novels as herself & under the pen names, Bree Baker, Jacqueline Frost & Julie Chase, for various publishers, including Kensington, Harlequin, Sourcebooks and Crooked Lane Books. When she's not writing the stories that keep her up at night, Julie stays busy in Kent, Ohio with her three amazing kids and shamelessly enabling friends. Today she hopes to make someone smile. One day she plans to change the world.
Be sure to check out NOT QUITE BY THE BOOK, Julie's latest work of contemporary fiction, written under her birth name, Julie Hatcher.
Be sure to check out NOT QUITE BY THE BOOK, Julie's latest work of contemporary fiction, written under her birth name, Julie Hatcher.
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Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews
April 21, 2019
Solid romantic thriller, but like Lindsey's previous book, "Federal Agent Under Fire", quite cliched and predictable. However, it is actually better than that book, with plenty of suspense from start to finish. Basically, Tina Ellet is the focus of a psychopath who ultimately kidnaps her baby! West Garrett is the sheriff who comes to her aid. They were a couple when they were teenagers, but she took off for ten years. It is when one of her therapy group members is shot and killed that they are reunited formally, despite her having been back in town for a couple of years.
Where she met another man, married him, and had a baby with him.
Ugh. Unfortunately, Tina Ellet herself is the reason I dropped a full star from this story. As effective as the suspense is, despite how effectively spooky some of the proceedings are, they can't overcome what a rancid cow Tina really is. She left West in the lurch ten years previously, taking off to college and cutting off ALL contact with him because of that usual sad-sack bullshit reason you usually get from the hero: she wasn't good enough for him because her own parents were trash and the apple doesn't fall far from the tree and blah blah blah and he was better off without her.
Dear romance authors: a character breaking off a relationship with their loved one WITHOUT A WORD OR EXPLANATION and cutting off all contact in the most dramatic fashion possible because you think you're a bad apple like your parents is A COWARD MOVE. A DICK MOVE. NOT A NOBLE MOVE. It is an action I find detestable and I wish category romances would stop using it! Tina is a selfish coward. That's all there is to it! Indeed, after coming back to town, she avoids West and FUCKING MARRIES SOMEONE ELSE AND HAS A KID WITH HIM!!!!! Seriously, what the fuck is up with that? Tina has returned to town because her father has no power over her any longer, so there is no conceivable reason for her to avoid West anymore. Despite saying he's the only man she's ever loved, SHE MARRIED SOMEONE ELSE THAT SHE DIDN'T LOVE.
I couldn't get past it. I really couldn't. When West reveals his part in Tina's father getting the maximum jail penalty he received, she's pissed because he knew about her past all along and "wounded her pride" by letting her pour her heart out to him about how ashamed she was of her parents. Well, Tina, you could have fucking told him all of this ten years ago when you took off like the sniveling coward that you are! This is all on you! Frankly, West was too good for her. I liked him because he rightly pointed out to her that we aren't defined by our parents. He's clearly loved her all along, always tries to do right by her, and she's basically treated him like shit for ten years. I just didn't like Tina at all.
And look at the way Tina has made me rant! You'd think I didn't enjoy the book. I did. It was exciting and suspenseful, if predictable and cliched. But points off also for the fact the leads have sex while Tina's baby is still kidnapped. Yuck. I really don't like that. I'm surprised it still happens in these sorts of books.
Where she met another man, married him, and had a baby with him.
Ugh. Unfortunately, Tina Ellet herself is the reason I dropped a full star from this story. As effective as the suspense is, despite how effectively spooky some of the proceedings are, they can't overcome what a rancid cow Tina really is. She left West in the lurch ten years previously, taking off to college and cutting off ALL contact with him because of that usual sad-sack bullshit reason you usually get from the hero: she wasn't good enough for him because her own parents were trash and the apple doesn't fall far from the tree and blah blah blah and he was better off without her.
Dear romance authors: a character breaking off a relationship with their loved one WITHOUT A WORD OR EXPLANATION and cutting off all contact in the most dramatic fashion possible because you think you're a bad apple like your parents is A COWARD MOVE. A DICK MOVE. NOT A NOBLE MOVE. It is an action I find detestable and I wish category romances would stop using it! Tina is a selfish coward. That's all there is to it! Indeed, after coming back to town, she avoids West and FUCKING MARRIES SOMEONE ELSE AND HAS A KID WITH HIM!!!!! Seriously, what the fuck is up with that? Tina has returned to town because her father has no power over her any longer, so there is no conceivable reason for her to avoid West anymore. Despite saying he's the only man she's ever loved, SHE MARRIED SOMEONE ELSE THAT SHE DIDN'T LOVE.
I couldn't get past it. I really couldn't. When West reveals his part in Tina's father getting the maximum jail penalty he received, she's pissed because he knew about her past all along and "wounded her pride" by letting her pour her heart out to him about how ashamed she was of her parents. Well, Tina, you could have fucking told him all of this ten years ago when you took off like the sniveling coward that you are! This is all on you! Frankly, West was too good for her. I liked him because he rightly pointed out to her that we aren't defined by our parents. He's clearly loved her all along, always tries to do right by her, and she's basically treated him like shit for ten years. I just didn't like Tina at all.
And look at the way Tina has made me rant! You'd think I didn't enjoy the book. I did. It was exciting and suspenseful, if predictable and cliched. But points off also for the fact the leads have sex while Tina's baby is still kidnapped. Yuck. I really don't like that. I'm surprised it still happens in these sorts of books.
April 17, 2018
A fierce and intense story with sharp twist and turns, that kept me on my toes, with deep emotions that had me sighing and even in tears once, with a hero who had me swooning all over tale, and a heroine who is willing to do anything to save her baby girl, and while at it, maybe restore that one relationship that once was everything to her.
The Garrett brothers won me over in the book one, no doubt about that. The unity, the teamwork, the passion for justice and to protect that they all share, as well as the family values and respect for their parents, the bond is a beautiful thing to witness.
Sheriff West Garrett is a solid man with a high sense of right and wrong. His honesty and dignity shine off from him, his charm wins most of the people over, and his dedication to his family, to his town, and to his job are admirable.
Tina Ellet has lived a rough life. Her childhood was filled with turbulence, abuse, and hunger for nurturing and nourishment. West was everything teenage Tina wanted, his family represented everything her young heart desired. But the need to escape her beginnings and to protect West from knowing the ugly truth of her family drove her away.
The chemistry between Tina and West was amazing. I love how even though they recognized the old feelings existing still deep in their hearts and minds, the first instinct they had was to handle the mess they were in the middle of, before dealing with the ardent emotions churning inside of them. There was something very natural in the tie between them. They were at ease with each other, they were honest with each other from the get-go, making the connection very real and realistic, while emotional, raw, and delightful.
The suspense is heightened throughout the story. The images the author draws were vivid and clear in my mind. The 'whodunit' is not as big of a deal as how to stop him, where to find him, and how to capture him without harming anyone else. I loved how the moment kept building up, how the tension kept growing, how the danger was possible behind every corner at moment. The strain from the past relationship, from the mistakes and actions by both Tina and West, brings its own stress to the tale, a different kind of uneasiness that heightens the anxiety and jitters even more.
A well-written story that flows smoothly off the pages captivating my mind. The emotions are high, the crimes are violent, the intensity is palpable, keeping the hold of my interest throughout the story, and making it impossible to put down until the sweetest, very satisfying ending that made me smile. 'A doozie of a tale in every way' was my first thought upon finishing it.
~ Five Spoons
The Garrett brothers won me over in the book one, no doubt about that. The unity, the teamwork, the passion for justice and to protect that they all share, as well as the family values and respect for their parents, the bond is a beautiful thing to witness.
Sheriff West Garrett is a solid man with a high sense of right and wrong. His honesty and dignity shine off from him, his charm wins most of the people over, and his dedication to his family, to his town, and to his job are admirable.
Tina Ellet has lived a rough life. Her childhood was filled with turbulence, abuse, and hunger for nurturing and nourishment. West was everything teenage Tina wanted, his family represented everything her young heart desired. But the need to escape her beginnings and to protect West from knowing the ugly truth of her family drove her away.
The chemistry between Tina and West was amazing. I love how even though they recognized the old feelings existing still deep in their hearts and minds, the first instinct they had was to handle the mess they were in the middle of, before dealing with the ardent emotions churning inside of them. There was something very natural in the tie between them. They were at ease with each other, they were honest with each other from the get-go, making the connection very real and realistic, while emotional, raw, and delightful.
The suspense is heightened throughout the story. The images the author draws were vivid and clear in my mind. The 'whodunit' is not as big of a deal as how to stop him, where to find him, and how to capture him without harming anyone else. I loved how the moment kept building up, how the tension kept growing, how the danger was possible behind every corner at moment. The strain from the past relationship, from the mistakes and actions by both Tina and West, brings its own stress to the tale, a different kind of uneasiness that heightens the anxiety and jitters even more.
A well-written story that flows smoothly off the pages captivating my mind. The emotions are high, the crimes are violent, the intensity is palpable, keeping the hold of my interest throughout the story, and making it impossible to put down until the sweetest, very satisfying ending that made me smile. 'A doozie of a tale in every way' was my first thought upon finishing it.
~ Five Spoons
February 23, 2019
This was an intense book. Tina, and Sheriff West Garrett were high school sweethearts. At home she and her mom were abused by her drunk father. She hid that part of her life from West. When she had the chance, she left town and never looked back. West never knew why she broke up with him or why she left town. She went on to college and became a phycologist. He went off to the Army and came home and latter became the town Sheriff. Tina had moved home to find her mother. Tina was leaving one of her counseling sessions when one of her patients was shot. West always dreamed of seeing Tina again, but he never imagined finding her covered in blood.
Tina became the target of a crazy stalker. This book offers detailed actions of a stalker. The stalker was beyond creepy. In a way I felt sorry for him. His own mother use to make fun of him, and said he’d never amount to anything. I think he was always trying to gain his mother’s acceptance, and approval and it pushed him over the edge. Stalking is everyone’s worst nightmare, and that part of the book felt very real. This guy kidnapped her infant daughter, and even tried to take her dog.
West and his family who were all working in some department of the Police force, worked together to find Lily. The buildup, suspense, and action were fantastic. This book kept me on the edge of my seat.
Tina became the target of a crazy stalker. This book offers detailed actions of a stalker. The stalker was beyond creepy. In a way I felt sorry for him. His own mother use to make fun of him, and said he’d never amount to anything. I think he was always trying to gain his mother’s acceptance, and approval and it pushed him over the edge. Stalking is everyone’s worst nightmare, and that part of the book felt very real. This guy kidnapped her infant daughter, and even tried to take her dog.
West and his family who were all working in some department of the Police force, worked together to find Lily. The buildup, suspense, and action were fantastic. This book kept me on the edge of my seat.
March 26, 2018
Been trying to pack and read interesting concept. I loved this book for this is a book with 2 storylines. Its a story about second chances and about acceptance. In it we meet Tina Ellet who has had a childhood of abuse that she has never told anyone. Then we have Sheriff West Garrett who has known Tina all his life and has loved her for a good portion of it. He learns her secrets when he arrests her father and sees his file. It also has a 3rd storyline that makes this story even more interesting. Its a very fast paced book filled with secrets to be found and shared. Its a great story and I can't wait til the 3rd book in this series for each of her books are unique and a page turner. I like when a book can do that. It makes it interesting.
November 18, 2020
Love this author!
There are actually four books with the Garrett Brothers, so I recommend reading the in this sequence:
1. Federal Agent Under Fire (Blake)
2. The Sheriff’s Secret (West)
3. Shadow Point Deputy (Cole)
4. Marked by the Marshall (Ryder)
I read them in 3-4-1-2 sequence and they all work great as stand-alone books, but the above sequence will help out.
All the books are great - likable characters, believable characters and the women aren’t all the types who whine or constantly fail to follow basic instruction. No - they’re all smart, strong, have common sense, are independent thinkers and totally fall for the Garrett brother who’s assigned to protect them, all four brothers’ being a member of some law enforcement agency (Local / federal, depending on the brother).
Great to get to know the whole family - even Uncle Henry!
The stories are fun - believable, scary, action-packed and also quick reads because you can’t put them down! Sleep is overrated anyway. Enjoy!
There are actually four books with the Garrett Brothers, so I recommend reading the in this sequence:
1. Federal Agent Under Fire (Blake)
2. The Sheriff’s Secret (West)
3. Shadow Point Deputy (Cole)
4. Marked by the Marshall (Ryder)
I read them in 3-4-1-2 sequence and they all work great as stand-alone books, but the above sequence will help out.
All the books are great - likable characters, believable characters and the women aren’t all the types who whine or constantly fail to follow basic instruction. No - they’re all smart, strong, have common sense, are independent thinkers and totally fall for the Garrett brother who’s assigned to protect them, all four brothers’ being a member of some law enforcement agency (Local / federal, depending on the brother).
Great to get to know the whole family - even Uncle Henry!
The stories are fun - believable, scary, action-packed and also quick reads because you can’t put them down! Sleep is overrated anyway. Enjoy!
December 1, 2021
I enjoyed this intriguing romance and I voluntarily chose to review this story. I've given it a 4.5* rating. This started almost at the very beginning to grab me and kept me turning the pages. It was a pretty fast read and even though I found out fairly early who the culprit was, the story wasn't over till they got him. A sick mind can think of plenty of stuff. Not really for the under 18 readers. Onto my next story.
April 26, 2018
i loved the book i was given a copy of the book,but this is an honest review. if you like suspense with romance , baby and dog you have to read this book
February 8, 2019
Good reading!
I have become a fan of Julie Anne Lindsey. Her characters come to life and you feel their feelings. You will enjoy this series.
I have become a fan of Julie Anne Lindsey. Her characters come to life and you feel their feelings. You will enjoy this series.
February 22, 2019
I read Cole's story previously and wanted to know more of West Garrett and Tina Ellet. The absolute fear of having a stalker is every woman's nightmare. The action of the story felt true.
June 18, 2019
Very good book
January 22, 2023
Excellent, waiting for more.
Excellent waiting for next book.
I hope there is another book doing up in this series. Just love her story lines.
Excellent waiting for next book.
I hope there is another book doing up in this series. Just love her story lines.
November 3, 2024
Great read now I need to read about the rest of the family.
September 2, 2018
This was a short novel that was only fairly good. The characters were likeable, but not fully developed. The story was a very light treatment of old love rekindled, murder and kidnapping. Somehow, I just didn't relate to it and there was very little suspense. The author's last name is my maiden name, spelled differently. That was interesting.
May 27, 2018
West Garrett is content with his life as a small town sheriff. Following in the footsteps of his father came as naturally to him as it did his brothers. He loves his town and is protective of his people. When a gunman goes after a local therapy group, he's shocked to find his ex-girlfriend caught in the cross-hairs. Now a doctor, Tina is the one who got away. Seeing her again brings all his feelings back to the forefront and he vows to keep her and her infant daughter safe. The gunman has a sick obsession though. One that is escalating quickly and when he takes Tina's daughter Lily, it becomes a race against time. Time that is quickly running out.
Another wonderfully satisfying read from Julie Anne Lindsey! The Sheriff's Secret is a high octane, beautifully timed, fast pace read peppered with lush characters that drew me in just like book one in this series. I love the sense of loyalty that is conveyed within this family of lawmen. They are stand up men, who let nothing get in their way. They are righteous, strong, heroic characters who make me melt with their innate need to protect. Lindsey does a wonderful job of making them believable and real. She pulls on the heartstrings with ease, not needing the graphic content to drive her stories along. I loved the evolution of West and Tina's relationship as the book progressed. Built on the past, each character had their reasoning for some mistakes made along the way. The title is a bit misleading as I thought West's secret wasn't really all that huge, but it did give light to past actions he regretted.
Tina's upbeat determination to find her daughter AND her need for West was well wrote and kept me turning page after page. She was an admirable woman who really showed courage in the face of danger. I thought her to be an exceptional heroine who really drove the book with her quick actions and loving nature.
Definitely one for the keeper shelf, I cannot wait for book three!!
I give The Sheriff's Secret by Julie Anne Lindsey 4 stars!
Another wonderfully satisfying read from Julie Anne Lindsey! The Sheriff's Secret is a high octane, beautifully timed, fast pace read peppered with lush characters that drew me in just like book one in this series. I love the sense of loyalty that is conveyed within this family of lawmen. They are stand up men, who let nothing get in their way. They are righteous, strong, heroic characters who make me melt with their innate need to protect. Lindsey does a wonderful job of making them believable and real. She pulls on the heartstrings with ease, not needing the graphic content to drive her stories along. I loved the evolution of West and Tina's relationship as the book progressed. Built on the past, each character had their reasoning for some mistakes made along the way. The title is a bit misleading as I thought West's secret wasn't really all that huge, but it did give light to past actions he regretted.
Tina's upbeat determination to find her daughter AND her need for West was well wrote and kept me turning page after page. She was an admirable woman who really showed courage in the face of danger. I thought her to be an exceptional heroine who really drove the book with her quick actions and loving nature.
Definitely one for the keeper shelf, I cannot wait for book three!!
I give The Sheriff's Secret by Julie Anne Lindsey 4 stars!
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May 2, 2018Miniseries: Protectors of Cade County
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May 2, 2018Miniseries: Protectors of Cade County
Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews