Rodeo Standoff: A Riveting Western Suspense

In this second book of the McKade Law series, the McKade we encounter is Deputy Tessa McKade who not only is a deputy and a forensic specialist, but is also a barrel racer champion. Early in the morning in the arena where she will be competing her last race, she is threatened by a bull that had no reason in being there. Tessa is rescued by Austin’s Detective Braden Hayes, who is also a retired World Champion Bull Rider. The attraction is immediate but she considers him a flirt and has no desire to go into a relationship, especially after her last one ended up being a disaster. Baden doesn’t believe in marriage after his experience with his parents. When the threats to Tessa escalate , he becomes her bodyguard. The story was filled not only lots of action, whodunit, and suspense but also with family dynamics. In this case, the McKade’s. An example that a loving family, even with their differences, can be one filled with respect and love . An upbringing vastly different than Baden’s. Proving that what we experience in our childhood will mold us as adults. Another entertaining story by Ms. Sleeman. Looking forward to another McKade story in the future. I was gifted this copy. The opinions expressed are solely my own.

One thing you can always expect from a Susan Sleeman book is an opening scene filled with danger and suspense! This book was no exception! Tessa McKade is a law enforcement officer like everyone else in her family but on this night, she is a champion barrel racer who is going to retire from the sport after this last rodeo. She is standing in the stadium envisioning her last ride, all alone, when she realizes that there is a huge bull in the ring with her! How did he get there? What is she going to do? She doesn't have time to jump over the wall! Fortunately, Braden Hayes, a champion bull rider, just happens to be on the other side of the wall and he jumps in to rescue her! Braden has retired from his bull riding days and is now in law enforcement too but has come back to this rodeo to say goodbye to his fans. He decides to become Tessa's bodyguard and help her family keep her safe as the attempts on her life continue. Who is trying to kill her and why? Tessa and Braden are very interesting people and I enjoyed getting to know them. Braden's life was SO different than Tessa's that as she discovers more and more about him, she is very drawn to him. I think you will be to. I wanted to take Braden home myself! Definitely, you need to read this story and find out what happens to Tessa and Braden! You'll find it a great read!

This is book two in the McKade Law series, however it is a stand alone book. You will miss some of the history in the McKade family but you will not have any problem keeping up with what is going on. Sleeman is an amazing suspense, FBI/Police type writer and she does not disappoint in this one, of course there is always some romance too. I love the entire McKade family, this book focus is on Tessa McKade, She is a determined woman trying to prove herself to her family. When Tessa is in need of protection she is not expecting it to come from the handsome cowboy, Braden Hayes, after all she can take care of herself, and her heart is not ready for any kind of relationship. I love, love, love Braden Hayes, I mean what is not to love. He is the handsome PBR cowboy/Homicide detective (SIGH), need I say more. When he is put in a situation where he must protect Tessa even though she is surrounded by a loving police family, can he actually keep her safe? This book is full of excitement, suspense, mystery, love, and of course romance. I look forward to book three.