Jan Hudson, The Texas Ranger

The Texas Ranger

Jan Hudson

Harlequin American, May 2007, $4.99

ISBN: 0373751664

At a party, Cold Case Texas Ranger Sam Bass Outlaw sees Skye Walker for the first time and knows he must meet this blonde beauty. He introduces himself as the brother of Belle, publisher of the Wimberley Star. She says she is the sister of his friend and Belle's beau Gabe Burrell.

Sam is in love, but having time alone with Skye proves futile as she is protected better than the president is, starting with Gus the German shepherd. Still he makes efforts to see her, but to his shock he learns why the seemingly overkill protection of Skye. His latest cold case involves her; which leads to doubts on his part. Not doubts that he loves her and believes she reciprocates; doubts about pursuing the investigation as that means Skye must explain her past; something she detests talking about.

This is a terrific police procedural romance as readers will understand Sam's dilemma, hesitating between hurting his love and completing his duty. The storyline is fast-paced, but it is the cast that makes the tale so much fun to read and not just the lead couple; from his family to hers including no nonsense (or roast beef) Gus interfere and matchmake simultaneously. THE TEXAS RANGER is a delightful contemporary.

Harriet Klausner