The rodeo arena is always treacherous. Now it’s deadly… It’s no accident Deputy Tessa McKade is trapped with an angry bull ready to trample her to death. She quickly realizes that McKade Law is no longer enough to keep her safe–and it’s her rescuer, Braden Hayes, who stands in as her bodyguard. As they seek to stop a would-be killer, Braden will have to use all his professional skills to … professional skills to guard Tessa’s life.
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RODEO STANDOFF by Susan Sleeman is the second book in the McKade Law series. It’s the story of Deputy Tessa McKade and Braden Hayes.
Tessa is shy and somewhat of a loner by choice. She’s happiest while spending time with her horse Cooper – whether barrel racing or just riding. She’s a hard worker both on the police force and the arena. In her job as Crime Scene Investigator, holding a master in Forensic Science, she works to prove to her father, the Police Chief, and her whole family of law enforcement officers that the baby of the family can do a great job and take care of herself while doing it. She’s still bruised emotionally from her breakup with Jason from over a year ago after she caught him wanting to have his cake and eating it too. She’s not ready, if ever, to risk her heart to another man.
Braden is a Homicide detective with the Austin Police Department and multiple PBR champion. Deprived of a normal family upbringing and forced to grow up way too fast, it was his introduction to the rodeo circuit that put his life on the right path. It was his desire to break ties with his dysfunctional family and their mooching off his rodeo earning and fame that led him to change professions and get into law enforcement – which he also loves. After seeing the many flawed relationships of his parent, he’s sworn off even remotely getting serious with a woman much less a long term relationship like marriage.
Harley Grainger president of the Lost Creek Rodeo Association brought Braden to town to help promote the rodeo that he is determined to see succeed. It’s on Braden’s first day at the arena that he finds Tessa in a dire situation looking face to face with one angry rodeo bull in the early morning hours. After saving her from sure injury and possible death, he is determined both professionally and personally to see that she stays safe while figuring out who put her in that danger. Reluctant at first, Tessa realizes that her life is in danger and accepts him as her bodyguard.
Who hates Tess so much to want her dead? Will they try again after the bull incident failed? Can Braden keep his promise and keep her safe? What will they learn about each other? Will their outlook on life and love change? Can Tessa complete her last barrel racing competition before retiring? Can Braden find in the McKade’s the family life he’s always longed for? What does the future hold for Tessa and Braden?
Susan Sleeman writes a story about a member of the McKade family and in doing so endears us to the whole clan. RODEO STANDOFF is a seamless story of excitement, danger and romance that will have you on the edge of your seat turning pages while trying to figure out who is after Tessa and why. The author will have you feeling the emotions and reservations of both Tessa and Braden while you pull for them to see the possibility of real love as the story unfolds.
Highly recommend this book to anyone that loves a good Christian suspense/love story. RODEO STANDOFF can be read as a standalone book. After reading this book, you will be looking for others in this series as well as other books by this author. This book is that good! This author is that great!
COMPELLING!!
Rodeo Standoff (McKade Law Series #2) is compelling! From the opening sentences, you will feel as though you’ve literally been thrown into the Rodeo World. Sleeman has the ability to write so vividly that her characters become your family and friends, their enemies become your enemies and you want to join forces with them to solve the crime! This is the story of Deputy Tessa McKade. Not only is she a Deputy, she’s also the County’s Lead Crime Scene Investigator and Champion Barrel Racer. She is preparing to race for the final time but someone decides they want to make sure she never gets the chance! You’d think being surrounded by the McKade family of Law Enforcement Officers would be enough to keep her safe. They find themselves indebted to Braden Hayes, an Austin Detective, and former World Champion Bull Rider who comes to Tessa’s aid when someone locks her in the arena with a wild bull! Tessa is very independent and doesn’t think she needs anyone to protect her because she’s always had to prove herself in a man’s world. What will she do with Braden hanging around all the time? Could he be interested in her as a woman or is this just an assignment?
This book is truly one of my new favorites! Why? It is centered around a strong, Christian family. Also, because it involves three of my favorite elements -Cowboys, Horses, and a Black Labrador Retriever! I know a lot about all three! I was provided an ARC of this book by the author. The opinions expressed here are completely my own and without influence. I have also preordered a copy for my own personal library.
Rodeo Standoff (McKade Law)
Susan Sleeman
In the second book of the McKade Law series, Lexie McKade faces a charging bull, stampeding horses, among other happenings. Enter Braden Hayes who takes on the role of her bodyguard. Will he be able to protect her or will the unknown enemy win?
Twists and turns that keep you guessing while Braden and Lexie struggle to find her enemy and their happily ever after.
Once again Susan draws you into the McKade world with strong determined characters.
“Rodeo Standoff” was a great book! The author does a great job of grabbing the reader’s attention from the start and holding it to the end. I enjoyed the book and the suspense. I would highly recommend it!
I received a copy from Sleeman. The review is in my honest opinion.
Rodeo Standoff is a romantic suspenseful mystery. It is not mushy, it’s powerful, lively and immensely Spiritual. You have Tessa who is being stalked by a murderer. Well not stalked but they have a target on her head but nothing will happen to her if Detective Austin has anything to say about it. Meanwhile they spend time together, will they guard their hearts too much or will they let GOD do HIS will for their lives? I received a copy of this book from the Publisher and Netgalley; all of the opinions expressed in this review are all my own.
if you would like to read more of my Christian book reviews go to christianlybookreviewers.blogspot.com – I look forward to seeing you there.
Rodeo Standoff grabbed my attention from the first paragraph with Tessa McCade staring down an angry eighteen-hundred-pound rodeo bull. Her rescuer, Braden Hayes, a former bull rider, teams up with Tessa to find the person who is trying to harm or kill her. Susan Sleeman’s distinctive mix of suspense, intrigue, conflict, romance, and inspiration keeps the story action-packed and kept me guessing and turning pages to see what was going to happen. I’m always impressed with the authenticity of Ms. Sleeman’s writing. It’s obvious that she has done much research and has worked hard to ensure that the background information is accurate. I would recommend this book to those who enjoy clean suspense stories. I rate this book 4 ½ stars rounded to 5.
I voluntarily reviewed a copy of from the author/publisher. All opinions are my own.
loved the story, if you like romance suspense and animals you will love the book, if have read several of her books and love them
Who knew a rodeo would make an excellent murder scene? Evidentally, Susan Sleeman did. And boy, oh, boy does she bring the danger and suspense along for the ride.
When Brayden Hayes rescues Tessa McKade from a bull that’s about to charge, he assigns himself as her bodyguard. Because it’s evident that someone has it in for the intriguing woman. Strong, fiery, and intelligent, Brayden can’t help but admire her.
Tessa knows she’s competent and she’s had her fill of overprotective males. Her father and brothers—even her granddad—have filled that role well. She doesn’t need another man hovering over her. Yet as she spends more time with the former PBR champion, she discovers there’s more to the man than she originally believed. Plus, there’s this sizzling attraction that’s hard to ignore.
Between the action and the investigation, readers are invited back to Trails End Ranch to spend time with the McKade clan. This family is close, welcoming, humorous at times, and always watch out for their own.
As Sleeman explores the dynamics of family—both the good and the dysfunctional—we get to go along for the galloping, bucking, hang-on-to-the-pummel ride that is a combination of romance, action, suspense, and faith. Can’t wait to see who is in the matchmaking sights of Nana next!
Disclosure statement:
I receive complimentary books from publishers, publicists, and/or authors, including NetGalley. I am not required to write positive reviews. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
This is an absolutely incredible romantic suspense novel!
I LOVE the two main characters! I felt captivated by Tessa. She is such a strong woman, but she has some definite vulnerabilities. I actually found myself telling her what she needed to do at one point. Not just in my head but out loud. If she had only listened to me she would have avoided some difficulties too.
The McKade family is one that I would thoroughly enjoy having as neighbors and friends. The way they support and care for each other is great.
The plot of this story is fantastic. There are plenty of plot twists and suspects to keep the reader engaged and guessing.
I was fascinated by all of the details given about rodeos. I have never been to one and I really have no interest in going. I do appreciate having an understanding of how a bull rider hangs on, the prep work they do and so on. I also liked getting a look into the mental preparations that barrel racers have to do.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. I have chosen to write this review to express my personal opinion.
Disclaimer: *Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a copy of this book for free in the hope that I would mention/review it on my blog. I was not required to give a positive review, only my honest opinion – which I’ve done. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.*
What an exciting story with characters that jump off the pages. If you are not familiar with rodeos you will be after reading this action packed book. I am a Texan through and through and the author was perfect on her description of how a rodeo works. I don’t think I would be as together as Tessa was after almost saying hi up close with a bull. She was quick to get out of the way, but it definitely was no mistake that the bull was loose in the arena.
I liked Tessa because she is a very smart deputy and doesn’t back down to anyone. Her family is not happy that someone is trying to kill her and decide she needs a bodyguard. I can hear Tessa saying, ” Y’all have got to be kiddin me. I’m a deputy. I can take care of myself.” She talks a big talk, but her daddy knows best.
Braden is exactly what you expect from a cowboy. He is a tall drink of water like us Texans say. It doesn’t hurt that he is a famous bull rider. The ladies swoon all over him and I laughed as Tessa rolled her eyes at all the attention he got. Braden is also a detective from Austin, Texas which makes him perfect as a bodyguard. Okay, well the family thinks it is a good idea. He did save her life so he must be good at his job. Someone means business when Tessa continues to face danger. Who did she make madder than a wet hen?
I loved the connection between Tessa and Braden as they slowly started to depend on each other. Tessa’s family is one you want to eat Sunday dinner with after church. Their values are what makes their family so special. They love horses and it makes the story so real when you read how well they treat their animals. I loved the bond Tessa had with her horse and how much she trusted it when she did barrel racing. There is a part in the story about Braden when he was growing up that brought me to tears. I won’t spoil it, but the author did an excellent job of showing his vulnerable side.
I just have to mention one thing Braden said to Tessa in a tense moment. When he whispered, “It’ll be okay, darlin, ” When a cowboy says that you know you will be safe. It’s a perfect story complete with rodeo clowns, intrigue and intense danger that brings the story to an action packed ending.
I received a copy of this book from the author. The review is my own opinion.
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!
“People don’t always think rationally. They commit murder for the craziest reasons and if they fail, they often try again until they succeed.”
Susan Sleeman shines in her second book in the McKade Law series. The McKade family quickly wormed their way into my heart. Nearly every single one are in some type of law enforcement and all are precious! This time Sleeman focuses on Tessa McKade, a crime scene investigator, who has become a target of a murderer. Tessa is about to end her career as a barrel racer and Braden Hayes, former professional bull rider has come to town. He is now a homicide detective in Austin and takes it upon himself to protect Tessa. Braden is determined to keep Tessa safe, but is his heart safe from Tessa? And Tessa is leaning in the same direction, but both of them have made up their minds they no longer want a relationship. With anyone. But have they consulted God about that?
Susan Sleeman is a particular favorite of mine. She does Christian suspense well indeed! She always has a wonderful spiritual theme in her books as well that the reader can carry away with them after closing the last page of the book. Highly recommended.
*My thanks to the publisher for a copy of this book. The opinions stated here are entirely my own.
Nothing like starting a story by being plunked in the middle of an arena with an angry bull about ready to charge! Yikes, talk about an adrenaline rush! That’s just the beginning of this action packed suspense that will keep you on your toes. Tessa McKade is part of a big, boisterous, loving, law enforcement family. When her life is threatened, they gather around to fiercely protect her. With the help of Braden Hayes, ex-professional bull rider and Austin homicide detective, they work to find her would be killer.
I’ve come to expect the best suspenseful writing from Susan Sleeman and she didn’t disappoint! Other than the danger in the story, I loved that this took place at a rodeo. I’ve always wanted to watch bull riders and barrel racing and I got a glimpse of that here. I can just imagine being in the audience gripping my seat in the nail-biting eight seconds it takes on a bucking bull or cheering the horse on for the best time around the barrels! Then she ramps it up from the start with Tessa facing an angry bull along with other dangers that come up as the story progresses. Susan had me guessing the whole way! There’s plenty of action to be had and the natural course of falling in love in spite of Braden & Tessa’s resistance to it. They also learn how to put their trust & faith in God more as the threat to Tessa’s life escalates. If you want a great story packed full of action, suspense, faith and love, look no further than Rodeo Standoff!
*I received a complimentary copy from the author and was under no obligation to leave a favorable review. All opinions are my own*
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.