REVIEW: Texas Scandal by Barb Han

Texas Scandal by Barb Han is the fourth book in The Cowboys of Cider Creek series, which can be read as a standalone with no issues. In this book, Tiernan Hayes is surprised when his dog digs up a body on his ranch. In the victim’s pocket? The name and address of Melody Cantor.

Someone is sending Melody anonymous messages, which is bad enough. But when the sheriff and Tiernan tell her that her information was found on a murder victim, she knows she’s being set up. Tiernan, too, suspects that something is wrong, but the sheriff is convinced Melody is involved, which is only strengthened when a connection between Melody and the victim is uncovered. With the sheriff not on their side, the pair join forces to find out the truth themselves.

Both characters are determined, strong-willed, and willing to do whatever it takes to discover who is setting Melody up and why. The chemistry between the pair is great, and they way they came together felt natural instead of rushed or overshadowed by all the action going on around them. The book also gets bonus points for Loki, Tiernan’s dog. Melody, who is afraid of dogs, quickly finds herself bonding with him, and I really enjoyed the bond they developed.

Full of suspense, mystery, action, romance, and well-crafted characters, Texas Scandal is a book fans of romantic suspense will enjoy.

Book Info:

Publication: September 26, 2023 | Harlequin Intrigue | The Cowboys of Cider Creek #4

Finding a body on his property has unexpectedly complicated Tiernan Hayes’s life, and then he meets the woman being set up as the murderer. The former rodeo rider’s instincts scream that Melody Cantor has been targeted because of her family connections. Melody has no one to protect her, and Tiernan knows he shouldn’t get involved. But this Texan never walks away from a challenge, even one that could prove deadly.