Standoff (Natchez Trace Park Rangers Book #1)

By Patricia Bradley

The Natchez Trace National Parkway stretches 444 miles from Nashville to Natchez, the oldest town on the Mississippi River. It's the perfect road for a relaxed pleasure drive. Unfortunately for park ranger Luke Fereday, lately it's being used to move drugs. Sent to Natchez to infiltrate the organization at the center of the drug ring, Luke arrives too late to a stakeout and discovers the body of his friend, park ranger John Danvers.

John's daughter Brooke is determined to investigate her father's murder, but things are more complicated than they first appear, and Brooke soon finds herself the target of a killer who will do anything to silence her. Luke will have his hands full keeping her safe. But who's going to keep him safe when he realizes he's falling--hard--for the daughter of the man he failed to save?

Award-winning author Patricia Bradley introduces you to a new series set in the sultry South that will have you wiping your brow and looking over your shoulder.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Baker Publishing Group
• Release date: May 5, 2020
• ISBN: 9781493423170

Patricia Bradley

Patricia Bradley is the author of Counter Attack, as well as the Natchez Trace Park Rangers, Memphis Cold Case, and Logan Point series. Bradley is the winner of an Inspirational Reader's Choice Award, a Selah Award, and a Daphne du Maurier Award; she was a Carol Award finalist; and three of her books were included in anthologies that debuted on the USA Today bestseller list. Cofounder of Aiming for Healthy Families, Inc., Bradley is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers and Sisters in Crime. She makes her home in Mississippi. Learn more at www.PTBradley.com.

Book preview

Other Books by Patricia Bradley

LOGAN POINT SERIES

Shadows of the Past

A Promise to Protect

Gone Without a Trace

Silence in the Dark

MEMPHIS COLD CASE NOVELS

Justice Delayed

Justice Buried

Justice Betrayed

Justice Delivered

NATCHEZ TRACE PARK RANGERS

Standoff

© 2020 by Patricia Bradley

Published by Revell

a division of Baker Publishing Group

PO Box 6287, Grand Rapids, MI 49516-6287

www.revellbooks.com

Ebook edition created 2020

Ebook corrections 06.17.2021

All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means—for example, electronic, photocopy, recording—without the prior written permission of the publisher. The only exception is brief quotations in printed reviews.

Library of Congress Cataloging-in-Publication Data is on file at the Library of Congress, Washington, DC.

ISBN 978-1-4934-2317-0

This book is a work of fiction. Names, characters, places, and incidents are the product of the author’s imagination or are used fictitiously. Any resemblance to actual events, locales, or persons, living or dead, is coincidental.

To the men and women

of the National Park Service.

You do a wonderful job

of sharing the parks with us and keeping us safe.

Contents

Cover

Half Title Page

Other Books by Patricia Bradley

Title Page

Copyright Page

Dedication

Prologue

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Sneak Peek from Book 2

Acknowledgments

About the Author

Back Ads

Back Cover

Prologue

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA

What had he gotten himself into?

Brandon Marlar leaned back in his chair and chewed his thumbnail. His dad had warned him the last time he’d caught him hacking. Son, breaking into someone’s files you have no business being in is wrong, and it’s going to get you in trouble. Just don’t come crying to me when it does.

But hacking was as addictive as the heroin he’d been hooked on two years ago, and when he’d found an open port in the Boudreaux Enterprises system, Brandon couldn’t help himself, not after he cracked the password in less than two minutes. Didn’t make it right, though.

Brandon jiggled his legs, hesitating as the keyboard lured him. Now that he’d found one secret file, he might as well go all in. Sucking in a breath, he hunched over the computer again, his fingers flying across the keys as he unlocked another file. A spreadsheet popped up on the screen, listing banks he’d never seen in his job as bookkeeper for Justin Boudreaux. He straightened his back and massaged his tight muscles.

Just to make sure his assumptions were correct, he copied a number in one of the columns and opened Google. Sure enough, the search engine returned hits for Fidelity Trust in the Cayman Islands. He repeated his search with numbers from another column. Another financial institution, this one in Switzerland. He totaled the accounts. At least thirty.

Brandon pulled up another file that listed dates, locations, and deposits. When he brought up both files side by side on his screen, it all clicked into place. He was looking at a classic case of money laundering. The company he worked for was blending funds and then depositing the laundered money in offshore accounts. Brandon drew in a shaky breath. Oh, boy.

Maybe all of this was legitimate. And maybe the Golden Gate Bridge was for sale. Justin Boudreaux was a powerful man. Even with these files, who would believe a twenty-two-year-old ex–heroin junkie? And if—he mentally erased the if—when Boudreaux discovered he’d hacked into the company’s computer system . . . Brandon didn’t want to think what might happen.

His dad.

He’d take the information to him, and he would know what to do. Brandon removed the flash drive and shut down his computer. He could be in Natchez in three hours.

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1

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NATCHEZ, MISSISSIPPI

FOUR WEEKS LATER

Brooke Danvers checked her watch. Her dad had said six and it was almost that. She quickly twisted her hair into a ponytail and then buckled her Sig Sauer to her waist. While she hadn’t been sworn in as a law enforcement ranger yet, Mississippi was an open-carry state, and her dad had okayed her wearing it.

She hadn’t stopped smiling since he’d asked if she wanted to ride along with him tonight. It didn’t even bother her that he’d chosen Sunday night because there wouldn’t be many cars out and about.

Brooke glanced toward the flat-brimmed hat that she’d worn all day at Melrose, the almost two-hundred-year-old mansion where she’d led tours. At times it felt as though the August heat and humidity would cook her head. She wouldn’t need the hat tonight, though, and left it sitting on her childhood bed.

Returning home after fifteen years while contractors finished the remodel on her water-damaged apartment was proving to be an experience. She’d always heard grown children shouldn’t return to the nest, and now she knew why. At her place, she came and went as she pleased without anyone asking questions. But now it was almost like she’d stepped back into her teenaged years. Not that she wasn’t thankful her parents had offered to let her move into her old room, but it would be good to get back in her own apartment in a couple of weeks. The chimes from the grandfather clock sent her hurrying down the hall to her dad’s home office.

It was empty. He’d said he had work to do before they left . . . She quickly walked to her mom’s studio.

Where’s Dad? she asked.

Her mom turned from her easel. He got a call and left. Said to tell you if you still wanted to do the ride along, text Gary to pick you up.

Disappointment was swift, and Brooke ground her teeth to keep from letting it show.

He said something about you riding with him tomorrow night.

That brightened her mood slightly. Her phone dinged with a text. Gary, the retiring ranger she was replacing.

Are you riding with me?

She quickly texted him.

Yes. What time?

Give me an hour and I’ll pick you up.

She sent him a thumbs-up emoji and hooked her phone on her belt.

Come see what I’m working on, her mom said.

Brooke edged into the room. It wasn’t often she got a chance to see an unfinished work by her mother. The painting was of her very pregnant sister. Oh, wow, she said. That’s beautiful. She’ll love it.

I hope so. Meghan’s feeling kind of . . .

Fat? That’s what she told me the other day, Brooke said. I tried to tell her that wasn’t true, and maybe this will show her.

I’m glad you like it. I should have it finished in time to take with the others to Knoxville next month.

The baby’s due date was a couple of months away, just after her mom’s gallery showing of her work ended. They both turned as the doorbell rang. It couldn’t be Gary already, and besides, he would just honk. I’ll get it, Brooke said and hurried to open the front door.

Jeremy? she said, her stomach fluttering at the sight of one of Natchez’s most eligible bachelors. Had she forgotten a date?

He looked behind him then turned back to Brooke with laughter in his eyes. I think so.

Heat flushed her face, and it had more to do with the broad shoulders and lean body of the man on her doorstep than the temperature. I wasn’t expecting you. I don’t have a lot of time, but do you want to come in?

Since it’s a little hot and humid out here, coming in would be good, he teased. And I apologize for dropping by without calling, but I was afraid you’d tell me you were busy.

Brooke steeled herself against the subtle citrus fragrance of his cologne as he walked past her. She’d had exactly two dates with Jeremy Steele and hadn’t figured out why he was even interested in her. She was so not his type. The handsome widower tended to lean more toward blondes.

Hello, Mrs. Danvers, Jeremy said to her mother, who had followed her to the living room.

How many times have I told you to call me Vivian?

I’ll try to remember that, he said with a thousand-watt smile.

Good. A thirtysomething calling me Mrs. Danvers makes me feel old, she replied. And since I know you didn’t come to see me, I’ll go back to my painting.

Good to see you . . . Vivian. Then he turned to Brooke and glanced at her uniform. Are you working tonight?

Sort of, she said. I was going to ride along with Dad on his patrol, but he cancelled and turned me over to another ranger. Why?

I know it’s last minute, but I was hoping you’d have time to join me at King’s Tavern, he said. I have a hankering for one of their flatbreads.

Her mouth watered at the thought. Brooke hadn’t eaten since lunch, and she could do last minute, at least this time. But the question of why her kept bobbing to the surface. Ignoring it, she said, That sounds good. I’ll text Gary to pick me up later.

Gary?

She grinned at him, tempted to describe the aging ranger as a hunk but instead settled for the truth. "He’s the ranger I’m replacing when he retires."

Red crept into Jeremy’s face. Oh, that guy. Are you even sworn in yet?

No, that’s next week. I talked my dad into letting me get a little early practice. It helped having a father who was the district ranger, even if he wasn’t overjoyed about her becoming a law enforcement ranger. Then she looked down. I need to change first.

You’re fine like you are, he said.

Maybe to him, but she was not about to go on a date wearing a National Park Service uniform and a Sig strapped to her waist. Give me five minutes.

After Brooke changed into a lavender sundress and slipped into sandals, she gave herself a brief once-over. While the dress showed no cleavage, it accentuated curves the NPS uniform hid. She freed her hair from the ponytail and put the elastic holder in her purse. In this heat, she might have to put it up again.

Brooke checked her makeup. She rarely wore anything other than pink gloss. Thick lashes framed her eyes and the sun had deepened her olive skin to a nice tan. Brooke wasn’t sure where she got her darker complexion and hair since her mom and sister, and even her dad, were fair and blonde, but she wasn’t complaining.

Tonight she wanted something more and added a shimmering gloss to her lips. Then she took a deep breath and slowly blew it out. Didn’t do much good with her heart still thudding in her chest.

Why was Jeremy pursuing her? The women usually seen on his arm were ones who could mix and mingle with the rich and famous. Women who could further his career. Jeremy was a Mississippi state senator with his sights set on Washington like his daddy, while she was a National Park Service ranger who didn’t care one thing about leaving Natchez.

Her heart kicked into high gear. Had the M-word just crossed her thoughts? Impossible. It wasn’t only that she wasn’t his type, he definitely wasn’t hers. She was a simple girl with a simple lifestyle—nothing like the Steeles.

In the 1850s, half the millionaires in the United States lived in Natchez, and the Steeles were among them. A hundred and seventy years later, the family’s holdings had increased substantially, not to mention the Steele men had a long history of public service.

Jeremy’s dad was the retiring US senator and his son was poised to take his place in the next election. His photo appeared regularly in the Natchez Democrat, often with a beautiful woman on his arm. And never the same one.

She sighed. If they lived in England, he would be royalty, and she would be the commoner who ended up with a broken heart.

Brooke chided herself about being melodramatic and hurried to her mom’s studio. Jeremy and I are grabbing something to eat, she said.

Her mom laid her brush down. What about your ride along?

I’ll catch up to Gary later, she said.

When she rejoined Jeremy, his eyes widened, and he whistled. Nice, he said.

Jeremy Steele knew how to make a woman feel special. As they stepped out of the house, she immediately noticed the ten-degree drop in temperature from when Jeremy first arrived and nodded at the thunderheads that had rolled in. Guess that means we won’t leave the top down.

I think we can make it to the tavern before it starts.

Ten minutes later Jeremy escorted her into King’s Tavern, where the original brick walls and dark wooden beams added to the mystique of the inn that had been rumored to have a ghost. The tantalizing aroma of steak drew her gaze to the open grill, but she had her heart set on one of their wood-fired flatbreads.

Inside or out? Jeremy asked.

The backyard, if you don’t think it’ll rain, she said.

If it does, we’ll simply come in. He gave the waitress their drink order, sweet tea for both of them, and let her know where to find them. They had their choice of picnic tables and chose the one on the hill. Once they were seated, Jeremy reached across, taking her hand. His touch and the intensity in his brown eyes almost took her breath away. I’m glad you came.

Me too, Brooke said, trying not to sound breathy. The question worrying around in her head wouldn’t wait any longer. Why me?

What do you mean?

Why are you interested in dating me? We don’t travel in the same circles.

But we do. We’ve gone to church together since we were kids.

And you sit in your family’s pew clear across the sanctuary.

His eyes twinkled. We don’t have a family pew.

She laughed. I’d hate to be the one who sat in your mom’s seat some Sunday.

You’re funny, he said. That’s one of the things I like about you.

But I’m so different from the women you usually date. There. She’d said it.

He lightly stroked the heel of her palm. That’s what I like best. You’re real . . . not saying anything bad about anyone I’ve dated, but honestly, sometimes I think the aura of the Steele name is the attraction. That and Dad’s money. Then Jeremy smiled, popping dimples in his cheeks. But you were never like that. Even in high school you were never afraid to tell me like it was.

Heat infused her cheeks. She’d been accused of that many times, usually by someone who didn’t want to hear the truth. I’m working on not being so blunt, she said. I hope I never hurt your feelings.

I won’t say never, he said with a wink, but you never said anything that didn’t need saying.

Okay, she’d been rude and hadn’t fallen all over him because of who he was . . . Before she could ask why again, the waitress approached with their drinks, and Brooke pulled her hand away from Jeremy’s, missing his touch immediately. Maybe she should let go of her questions and let their relationship play out.

Once the waitress left with their orders, Jeremy took her hand again. I’ve looked a long time for the right person.

His brown eyes held her gaze. He surely didn’t mean her. Did he? What about Molly? I’d hate for her to get attached to me and then we stop seeing each other.

I don’t plan for that to happen. And Molly is already crazy about you.

Brooke couldn’t keep from smiling. His six-year-old daughter was a sweetheart.

How about if we take it slow? he asked. Get to know one another?

No pressure?

No pressure.

Her phone dinged and she glanced at the screen. A text from Gary.

Pick you up in an hour?

Brooke hesitated, torn between wanting to spend more time with Jeremy and getting practical experience on her job. If the text had been from her dad, it wouldn’t even be a question—she had so much to learn from him, but Gary, not so much. She’d known him all her life and he’d always been laid-back, never wanting to climb the ladder within the park service. But if her dad thought she should ride with him . . . With a sigh, she looked up from her phone. Can you have me back to my house in forty-five minutes?

Do I want to? Nope, he said. But I can.

She texted Gary an okay, wishing it was her dad she would be riding with. Then Brooke stared at her phone a second. What had been so important for her dad to stand her up?

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2

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Luke Fereday’s nerves thrummed like high-voltage wires as the wind from the approaching thunderstorm moaned through Windsor Ruins. He’d found the gate to the enclosure unlocked and slipped inside, concealing himself behind one of the twenty-three columns that stood like ghostly sentinels under the harsh overhead lights. The columns were all that remained of the five-story plantation that burned over a century ago.

Earlier in the day another storm had blown through South Mississippi and saturated the ground, leaving the earthy smell of wet leaves. Overhead, Spanish moss hung from live oaks and whipped back and forth in the wind that had taken a cooler turn. He hoped to be away from here before the storm arrived. With a quick tap of his watch, he checked the time. Almost midnight. Sonny was late.

All the things that could go wrong, including his cover being blown, ran through his mind. Even in the chilled air, sweat made his palms slick, and he wiped them on his jeans. It had taken four months to get a meeting with Charley Romero. Four months of baiting his hook by buying five- and ten-thousand-dollar amounts of heroin from Sonny.

Thunder rumbled again, competing with an owl’s lonely hoot. Luke ignored the shiver that raced down his spine and bent to check the backup Ruger in his ankle holster. Meetings like this he always carried two guns—his Glock and the lighter-weight Ruger. Then he stood and scanned the clearing once more.

Lights flashed as a car swung into the drive, followed by more lights. They were arriving in separate vehicles. He took a deep breath and slipped into his role, this time playing himself. Luke Fereday. Made him feel exposed.

Actually it wasn’t the Luke Fereday he was now, but the one who had a reputation for trouble back in his high school days. Never thought that reputation would come in handy.

A minute later a pickup and an SUV rolled into the clearing and parked beside Luke’s Jeep Cherokee. He stepped out of the shadows as a lanky man climbed out of the truck holding an LED lantern. Luke would bet his next paycheck the floral Hawaiian shirt Sonny wore hid a gun tucked in the waistband.

Hey, my man, Sonny said. The dealer glanced around. This place gives me the willies at night.

Luke shrugged. You picked it.

I know, but it’s still creepy.

You’re late, he said.

My friends over here had a little business to take care of. I was about to call you when they showed up.

Sonny was twitchy. And he was talking too much. Luke tensed, shifting his stance to the balls of his feet as the driver climbed from the SUV. The overhead lights gave just enough illumination to make out the man’s features.

The sixth sense honed by years of drug buys kicked in. It was hard to tell his age, but something about the cut of his shoulders and the way he held himself was familiar. Luke had seen him somewhere, maybe even had contact with him, but his photo hadn’t been in any of Luke’s files. What if he’d arrested him before in a drug sting?

Luke’s gaze shifted as another man crawled out from the passenger side. Charley Romero purported to be second in command in an organization that had ties with a South American cartel and stretched from Natchez to New Orleans and eastward into Florida.

Romero was shorter than his bodyguard and might come to Luke’s shoulders. But looks were deceiving, and he knew to treat him like the cottonmouth snakes roaming the woods around him. Very carefully.

He looked closer at the bodyguard, still trying to place him. That was the problem he always faced when he dealt with unknowns. The man could be someone Luke had busted in the past, even in a different part of the country.

Wasn’t expecting but two of you. He caught himself before he reached to smooth the full beard that was no longer there. Since he was playing himself, it wasn’t needed, but he sure did miss it, along with the John Deere cap that always shaded his eyes.

Romero here wanted his friend to tag along, Sonny said, palming his hands. It’s all good.

Your friend in the shadows. He have a name? The hard metal of his Glock pressed against the small of Luke’s back, reminding him it was a dangerous game he played.

Yeah, Romero said, but you don’t need to know it.

Tension crackled in the humid air. The bodyguard moved out of the shadows to join Romero, and Luke planted his feet. The bodyguard stood a good two inches taller than Luke’s six feet. He inched his arm back, ready to grab the Glock in his waistband. Not much room for error. If the deal went south, he’d take out Romero first, then the bodyguard. He nodded to Sonny. I’m only trusting them because you say they’re okay.

Romero folded his arms across his chest. How do we know you’re not a narc? His voice rose and fell in its thick Cajun accent.

Hey, Charley, my man, Sonny said. Luke here is okay. I know him.

Luke squared his shoulders and kept his gaze on Romero. How do I know you won’t rat me out to the law around here?

A look passed between the bodyguard and Romero, who grinned. You don’t have to worry about the law. Romero stared at Luke a minute longer, and then he tipped his head. I heard you’re looking for some Big H.

A little of the tension eased from Luke’s body. And I heard you had some.

Maybe. How much you want?

A kilo, right? Sonny said, looking toward Luke.

Provided the price is right.

A kilo will cost you sixty-five Gs, Romero said.

Luke toed the ground with his ostrich-skin cowboy boots and then raised his head to pin a narrowed gaze on Romero. Sonny said it was only sixty.

Sonny was wrong. You want it or not?

Luke took his time answering and shifted where he could keep his eye on the bodyguard. He didn’t like the way the man had tilted his head, like he was trying to puzzle something out. Luke needed to end this and get out of here. He brought his attention back to Romero. Can you make regular deliveries?

How regular?

Every two weeks?

You want a kilo every two weeks? Romero’s voice inched up a notch at the end.

Luke nodded slowly, and the drug dealer’s face lit up like it was Christmas. Can you swing it?

The bodyguard rested his hand on a gun stuck in his waistband. Where’re you dealing that you can move that much H so fast?

The man’s Appalachian accent twanged like a note on a steel guitar, setting off warning bells. Luke couldn’t place where he’d met the man before, but he was certain he had. That, my friend, is none of your business. He turned to Romero. Do we have a deal? Sixty Gs?

The man’s lips twitched, then his shoulders relaxed. Deal.

Take me a couple of days to get the cash. Got any bundles with you so I can show my people the grade?

Romero snapped his fingers, and the bodyguard produced a bundle of small bags. Luke opened one of the pouches.

That’s some good stuff, that, Romero said.

I’m sure it is.

The Cajun named a price, and Luke slipped a wad of cash from his front pocket and peeled off several bills.

Romero pocketed the money. The price on the kilo is good ’til Thursday night. You don’t get the cash by then, we’ll renegotiate.

Here? Same time? Luke asked.

Sonny will call you with the location. Romero turned to leave.

Wait.

Romero stopped and turned around. What?

I hear you’re running China White up the Trace. I’d like to get in on some of the action.

Where you hear that?

Luke shrugged. Here and there. What do you say?

I say you better stick with what you got, don’t you think?

Maybe you want to run that up the ladder? With my connections, I can help you.

Romero eyed him. I’ll pass it by the boss, but don’t be holdin’ your breath.

I’d like to meet your boss.

The drug dealer stared at him, his eyes narrow slits. I’ll run that by him too.

Good deal. Asking about the drugs traveling the Trace had been worth a try. Maybe he should have waited, but at least he’d planted the thought, and he might get a meeting with the top man out of it. Romero turned and walked to the SUV while the bodyguard stood with his feet spread and arms folded, staring Luke down. It would be comical except that one wrong move could start a shooting war.

Sonny saluted Luke, then hopped in his pickup and waited for the SUV to drive out of the clearing before he followed. When the two sets of taillights disappeared around the curve, one going one way and the other in the opposite direction, Luke allowed himself to breathe.

Tonight he didn’t have to worry about the men waiting to waylay him as he left. The roll of money he flashed wasn’t enough to tempt them, but come Thursday, sixty thousand dollars could make it a different story. Depended on whether Justin Boudreaux looked at the long haul. And whether Luke figured out where he’d met the bodyguard before.

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3

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A waning half-moon cast a ghostly pallor over Emerald Mound. Hidden in the trees across from the ancient site, Kyle Marlar jockeyed for position on the uneven ground. He’d found a sturdy limb to steady his camera, a Canon EOS 6D with a zoom lens. Now he waited. He wasn’t sure for what, other than this was the only lead he had on his son’s murder. And his death definitely was murder.

If only he hadn’t blown Brandon off that weekend he brought the flash drive to him. If he’d taken him seriously, his son would still be alive. But the boy had always made up wild tales—it was hard to know when he was telling the truth. To even think Justin Boudreaux was mixed up in money laundering stretched credibility.

The man was respectable. He owned a chain of grocery stores and had recently bought prime real estate for a store in Natchez. County, city, and state leaders were negotiating with Boudreaux to move his warehouse from New Orleans to Adams County. The superstore coupled with the warehouse would mean at least three hundred jobs for the area. Three hundred desperately needed jobs.

Kyle was the state representative for this district, and it was his responsibility to help bring industry to the area, not throw up a roadblock by bringing a crazy accusation based on his son’s suspicions. Kyle had convinced Brandon that he was misreading the files he’d discovered. He’d even lectured him on hacking into Boudreaux’s computer system.

The boy had been too bright for his own good. Kyle had kept the flash drive, intending to destroy it. Then the next week he got the call from a New Orleans detective that Brandon had overdosed on heroin.

He knew his son, and he would never have used heroin again. That was when Kyle realized the fanciful accounting story had been true and he’d followed the information on the drive to Emerald Mound.

A mosquito bit his neck, and he slapped it as a bank of clouds snuffed out the moon, plunging the area into darkness except for the far-off flashes of lightning. That no thunder followed gave him hope the rain would hold off until after the switch, but he still had to contend with the high humidity. He wiped his camera lens. If there was anything to shoot, he didn’t want the photos blurred. Then he pressed the menu button and double-checked that the time stamp was set.

He jerked his head toward approaching tires. Seconds later, a car pulled into the circular drive that served as a small parking lot, and Kyle checked his watch. Eleven forty. According to the information on the flash drive, the runner was twenty minutes early. He aimed his camera at the face of the man getting out of the car.

He never would have believed it.

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Emerald Mound. He stared toward the ancient mound even though he couldn’t see it in the dark. The luminous minute hand on his watch crawled toward midnight. He shouldn’t have come so early. He reached for antacids, and his hand brushed the two-inch piece of basswood he always carried. He popped the antacids in his mouth, then drew out his knife and the wood, and seconds later he was whittling the lines of a duck, his nerves calming.

At precisely eleven fifty-nine, he folded the bone-handled knife and slipped the wood and knife in his pocket. One minute later, a dark sedan stopped and someone handed him a package wrapped in plastic without one word being spoken.

Just as silently he walked to his car, opened the trunk, and secured the package. His hand shook as he closed the deck lid. Now all he had to do was drive the package to Jackson, where someone else would take it on to Nashville.

A twig snapped, and he jerked his head toward the sound. Who’s there?

Silence. He stood stock-still a full minute. The only sound other than cicadas was thunder rolling toward

Reviews for Standoff (Natchez Trace Park Rangers Book #1)

[melissa_o-399736 · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

Standoff is an explosive beginning to a new series by Patricia Bradley. This is a great read for lovers of romantic suspense because there is plenty of both!The story starts with the death of Brooke Danvers father, a park ranger in Natchez Trace Park. The death is ruled a suicide, but Brooke is not a believer. Brooke has followed in her father's footsteps and become a park ranger herself. She along with fellow ranger and ex-boyfriend, Luke Fereday, begin a pursuit looking for answers surrounding her father's mysterious death. Unknown to Brooke, Luke has returned to town to investigate a local drug ring.Readers are presented several possible suspects and there are twists and turns along the way as well as one complete at total surprise I didn't see coming at all! You won't be disappointed by the non-stop action and page-turning suspense. Definitely looking forward to the rest in the series!I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author and was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine.

[jaymewill-1 · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

Patricia Bradley is quickly becoming one of my favorite suspense authors. Readers who like Lisa Harris, Lynette Eason, or Colleen Coble will enjoy Bradley's new book, Standoff. It has a little danger, clean romance, light Christianity, and a lot of suspense. Brooke Danvers is just days away from following in her father's footsteps and being sworn in as the newest Park Ranger. Unfortunately, her first encounter with the Rangers is the death of her own father. His case is quickly labeled suicide, but Brooke knows he didn't kill himself and sets out to prove it. Along the way she meets her old flame, Luke Fereday, who up and left town without any contact. Luke has returned to follow a drug trail that leads to his back to his hometown. Even though he hates the secrecy, he can't tell Brooke that he's undercover and working for a three letter government organization. As more people turn up dead, Luke has his hands full trying to track down the drug dealers and keep the woman he loves safe.I liked the plot line, setting and characters. The author did a good job setting up several people who could be the bad guy to keep the reader guessing. I did find the many characters at the beginning a little confusing. But I kept reading and eventually got it straight.

[alekee_1 · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

knew when I saw who wrote this book that it would be great, and it was, I was just wanting more when the last page was turned, but, there is a teaser at the end, and now I can't wait.We are kept on our toes thought out this read, and you will wonder if all will survive at the end. Yes, there are some tragic deaths here, and they are senseless, and I kept changing my mind as to whom was the evil one? I was sure I knew, and then something would happen to change my mind.There are some real bombshells dropped, and there is a bit of sweet romance, but there again I kept changing my mind on whom our girl should end up with!You won't be disappointed with this one, and you will be quickly page turning for answers!I received this book through LibraryThing. and was not required to give a positive review.

[polarmath · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

I enjoy a good mystery and this one did not disappoint. Having been on part of the Natchez Trace National Parkway, I could easily envision many of the scenes in the book. Luke has been sent in to become a part of a drug ring, but finds himself instead investigating the murder of a friend. He finds solving the murder even more a priority when his friend John's daughter gets drawn in while investigating the murder and finds herself a target as well. Luke finds it all he can do to keep her safe and find out what exactly is going on.

[eccl-3 · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

Standoff, by Patricia Bradley, is the first book in the Natchez Trace Park Rangers series. Luke works undercover for the park system and has been sent to his grandmother's home town to track down a drug ring. One of the only people who knows of his position is the neighbor of his grandmother, John. John thinks he has found out who is in charge of the drug ring and helps arrange a stake out. When Luke gets there he find John has been killed. John's daughter, Brook, is joining the park rangers and gets pulled into the investigation, working with Luke.This is a great “whodoneit” story. It is fast paced, full of adventure, action and suspense. The characters are well defined. The story is so well written it is easy to imagine the park setting and surrounding areas. The romance in the story is as expected, but not overwhelming. This is a great crime story and I look forward to reading the rest of the series.I received a copy of this book from Revell Reads Blogging Program. This is my honest review.

[hes7 · Rating: 3 out of 5 stars]

Brooke Danvers needs to find out the truth behind her father’s suspicious death, which has been ruled a suicide. Her old friend and ex-love interest Luke Fereday returns to town for an undercover assignment—and stirs up feelings that only complicate her search, especially as their individual purposes seem to connect.The first in Patricia Bradley’s Natchez Trace Park Rangers series, Standoff is a fast-paced, though unoriginal, romantic-suspense story. While it entertained me as I read, I did feel that aspects were rushed (especially the romance!), while most of the twists and reveals were predictable. The ending just left me thinking, “That’s it?” So, this new release is definitely not my favorite of Bradley’s novels—but it is getting a lot of love from other readers, so if you love romantic suspense, it could still be worth checking out.I received a complimentary copy of this book and the opportunity to provide an honest review. I was not required to write a positive review, and all the opinions I have expressed are my own.

[virginia51-1 · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

I felt like this was a wonderful start to a new series and I am really looking forward to reading the second book in this series. It was interesting to read about the Natchez Trace National Parkway. I loved the characters and all the twists and turns. I love how Luke and Brooke rekindle an old friendship. I did not want to put this book down. I received a copy of this book from Revell for a fair and honest opinion that I gave of my own free will.

[stardust_fiddle · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

What originally attracted me to this book was the cover, followed by the series title: Natchez Trace Park Rangers. As a lover of the outdoors, that was enough to reel me in, and since this is book one, I did not hesitate to sign up for a review copy. Thankfully, I did not look at the synopsis (a habit that I have adopted so as not to spoil any part of the plotline), because doing so would most likely have deterred me from wanting to read the book. Anything relating to drug cartels and the like just doesn’t appeal to me. As soon as I picked up this novel and realized what I was getting into, I began wondering if I had made a mistake.However, my fears were quickly allayed as I settled into Patricia Bradley’s swift, engaging writing style. “Standoff” comes out of the starting gate with a shot (literally) and never lets up, forging ahead relentlessly to the last page. Short chapters also facilitate this, giving the impression of a staccato beat that fits how the plot plays out. While I enjoyed that the story never lagged, I have to admit that the abundance of characters is overwhelming. Each of the first several chapters is about a different person, all of whom are critical to the narrative, and because the story remains in the third-person, I personally had a very difficult time keeping track of who was who. Brooke Danvers is the only character who stood out to me, being the female lead. I understand that the profusion of characters is necessary for the storyline, but I think that it would be very helpful to perhaps have a character list, one that would be brief so as not to give any spoilers, but with just a few words to help readers keep the characters separate from one another. Quintessential romantic suspense, “Standoff” lives up to its name in more ways than one. There is, of course, the drug ring, which becomes the concentric circle surrounding the characters, two of whom are vying for a serious relationship with Brooke while others want her dead. Add in family drama and personal conflict, and the stage is set for an exhilarating Natchez excursion, grounded in the truth that God is always with us and that He sees the end from the beginning. I received a complimentary copy of this book from Revell and was under no obligation to post a positive review. All opinions are my own.

[sherripo · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

I have read several of Patricia Bradley's books which I have liked and enjoyed this first book in her new series. It was suspenseful and I didn't want to stop reading. The plot kept me interested throughout. I am looking forward to the next book in this series.

[kimpotter-309059 · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

Standoff by Patricia Bradley is the first book in her Natchez Trace Park Ranger series. Brooke Danvers is set to follow in her Dad’s footsteps and become a Park Ranger Law Enforcement Officer. When her father is murdered, she vows that she will find who killed him. Luke Fereday is sent to Natchez to find the drug cartel that is smuggling drugs up the Trace. What he didn’t count on was falling for Brooke. Can he keep her safe from those who want her dead? The characters were pretty predictable. By the second chapter I had already figured out who the villains were. There’s a lot of action with some romance thrown in. All in all, it was a good story I just wish it hadn’t been so obvious. I received this book from the publisher for my honest review.

[jillrey · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

Brooke is excited to be following in her father’s footsteps.  She’s been training to become a law enforcement officer in the National Park Ranger service. However, prior to her ride along training with her father he abruptly cancels and is later found dead. Luke is deep undercover as a drug dealer.  He’s returned to his summer home, next door to Brooke, as part of his most recent operation.  After 14 years without seeing or communicating with Brooke he is thrown right back into the feelings they had for each other all those years ago.  But Brooke is now dating the town’s most eligible bachelor.Despite being stuck in a love triangle, Brooke’s character remains a strong, independent female lead.  Refusing to be anything but blunt with her family and male suitors, Brooke proves to be a spitfire as the principle character. This strength of hers aids in bringing an entirely eventful and fast-paced story to the hands of all readers.  Bradley continues to create dazzling stories, full of explosive suspense, strong characters and action-packed narratives so be sure to pick up this, her latest.*Disclaimer: A review copy was provided by the publisher.  All opinions are my own.

[veragodley · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

I never thought of park rangers as having to face dangers like murder, drug traffic, etc. but "Standoff" reveals the hazards of the job in this fast moving, suspense story. As the first in a series, "Standoff" delivers a compelling read that excites one to upcoming books along the same theme.The Natchez Trace is a park ranging from Nashville, Tennessee, to Natchez, Mississippi. The setting is real and the reality that crime on the trail truly exists is vividly painted in word pictures in Standoff. So while totally fiction, you have the feeling you're reading the behind the scenes saga of a major crime investigation and the off shoots of criminal acts associated with it.The dirty deed is an undercover investigation into major cartel players.Brook Danvers is a second generation Park Ranger and is about to be promoted. The death of her father throws her life into disarray as she copes with the fallout from that and her upcoming promotion. But then things get really complicated and convoluted.I had a hard time keeping the characters straight and was surprise at some of the endgame results. Keeping the good guys and the bad guys straight in my mind and drawing conclusions as to who-dunnit was difficult.Loved the book and am really looking forward to seeing what else is afoot on The Natchez Trace.DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy to facilitate a review. Opinions are mine, alone and are freely given.

[coverloverbookreview · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

I love it when I come across a new-to-me author, especially when it’s the first book in a new series! I also enjoy peeking outside my preferred genres every now and then to explore new styles and plots. I’ve read several romantic suspense stories throughout the years, but usually scatter them out among my stacks of women’s fiction, historical fiction, and fun contemporaries. I’m not fond of the title, Standoff. It doesn’t really capture the essence and gravity of this story with themes of loss, grief, guilt, trust, and the sweet elements of romance. I am fond of the unique backdrop (Natchez, Mississippi) the interesting and multi-layered key characters, and getting a look at life as a park ranger. It was easy to connect with Brooke and I sympathized with her many difficulties. Both Brooke and Luke (her old high school flame) lead interesting lives and complex careers. Their actions and reactions feel authentic and the romance takes backseat to the mystery and suspense. Though the suspense of discovering the whodunit is satisfying, it is the characters that progress this story forward for me. I enjoyed getting to know them, especially Luke, and hope they work on a case together in more of the series. Riddled with action, a rise and fall in tension, and a wonderfully paced mystery, I’m left anticipating book #2!#Standoff #PatriciaBradley #RevellReadsI received a complimentary copy of this book.

[medwards429 · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

Thank you in advance to the publisher, Revell Books for providing a complimentary UNCORRECTED advanced review copy through Interviews and Reviews. A positive review was not required. All words are my own.

Patricia Bradley is a new-to-me author, although she has numerous novels to her name.

This is part of a series, but being that it is the first one, it is a standalone read. The teaser for the second one? That seems exciting as well. And, given how this one ends, it might be worth adding the second novel to the TBR (to be read) list as soon as the title is released. No word yet on how many books are in this series, or I have not been able to find that information.

The suspense premise drew me to the novel right off. As I LOVE good suspense reads (Love Inspired, Harlequin Intrigue), particularly the cleaner ones, this was at the top of my “REALLY GOTTA HAVE IT” list. Clean, suspense reads with law enforcement? Always a perfect read for me. But, this book featured a different type of law enforcement agency – park rangers.

These are NOT the “Jellystone”, bear-chasing type of rangers. Nor are they the “hey no campers allowed here; keep to the trail” type. These are the law enforcement, undercover ones. That really put this as a “gotta have it” type of read. And, that cover? Haunting, mysterious, almost ominous.

I’m sure it’s obvious – I REALLY ENJOYED this book! There were places I felt could’ve been expanded though. There was one scene that was only touched on that I felt it could’ve been expanded as it was left open. This was around chapter 70. Although I had a feeling what the findings would be, it would’ve been nice to see some conclusion or verification with it. This isn’t the only “hole” left open.

From the beginning this book was gripping, definitely an “edge-of-seat”, intense read. I could barely keep up with it. There were times I actually caught myself trying to breathe. The short, quick chapters made this a fast-paced read. I really didn’t want to put it down.

The element of danger lurked EVERYWHERE. And, it was hard to know who to trust. I certainly knew that Brooke and Luke could be trusted. There were some I had minor trust in, and there were a few characters (one in particular) I didn’t trust at all. Just right off, something threw me about the character. And, I can’t believe how right I was. I just had a nagging suspicion about the person.

I simply adored Daisy (Luke’s grandmother). She was the grandmother I would’ve loved growing up. She provided a calm; soothing balance to the whole chaos going on. Luke was an interesting character. He easily and believably fit the undercover role.

Brooke was a good character; though there were times I thought she was a bit immature. There is a stunning surprise about her parentage that ends up connecting to one of the plots in this story. That was something I had a feeling about as well – so there were two plots that were predictable, at least for me. But, I did enjoy seeing at how they were woven together.

There was one character whose status was never fully “concluded”. Even at the end, there was a slight opening for the author to update, yet it wasn’t taken. I am hoping that the second book lets the readers know right away whether or not the character survived.

As I am only going by an ARC, this could change. So, keep that in mind with regard to the two issues I pointed out.

Overall the book was engaging right up until the very end. The last three chapters were a whirlwind, whiplash trip. It did end a bit too quick for me, so I am eagerly awaiting the second novel – although it looks like the focus will be on another one of the female characters, I do hope the author wraps up Brooke and Luke’s story.

While distributed through Revell, which deals primarily in Christian fiction, there are minor references to God, Jesus, and his plans for our lives in this book. It is not a central theme or focus and used in context with Brooke seeing advice, and most of it coming from Daisy. There are no bible quotes, passages, or sermons. Church-going is only mentioned. While not a minor issue for me, it can be for some readers who expect that there will be more content. Other readers might enjoy the lighter faith tones.

This is also a “clean” read – there are no sex scenes, inferred sex scenes, or foul language. People who enjoy light Christian references and clean suspense reads should enjoy this.

[macnoid · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

Another great Patricia Bradley book, and looks to be a great series! This story is fast moving, and has lots of twists and turns; definitely keeps you turning the pages, and reading past your bedtime. The suspense begins on the first pages, in the prologue....a sense of danger and foreboding of bad things to come...which of course they do! Being taken to the seamier side of life, where people are not who they seem to be, and into drug cartels, is not comfortable.... I'd rather not know there are people like that sharing our world, but I am grateful for law enforcement that works so hard to protect us! I learned a lot about the job of Rangers! A well written story, with a great cast of characters...and a bit of romance, too. Can't wait for the next book to come out! I was given a complimentary early copy of the book by LibraryThing and was not required to write a review. The opinions are my own.

[anne_rightler-1 · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

Standoff by Patricia Bradley is quite the exciting start to the Natchez Trace Park Rangers series. From beginning to the end there is edge-of-the-seat action, twists to the plot and the tension of romance that keeps the reader's interest high. The author gives an interesting glimpse into the job of park rangers as well as the dark side of drug cartels and the people one would never expect to be on the wrong side of the law. Family relationships, murder, and long ago boyfriends keep Brooke on her toes. I can't wait to read the next in this series. I was given a complimentary early copy of the book by LibraryThing and was not required to write a review. The opinions are my own.

[lamb521 · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

Title: Standoff (Natchez Trace Park Rangers #1)Author: Patricia BradleyPages: 400Year: 2020Publisher: RevellMy rating: 5 out of 5 stars.Patricia Bradley’s books are among my favorites to read and share with others. Why? The author weaves a very intriguing mystery that pulls readers in, plus there is some romance but it doesn’t overtake the plot. Also, the characters are lifelike in how they respond, act and think. In her newest series, the author helps push the action along by having short chapters that give readers various points of view of the action.In Standoff, the main female lead is named Brooke Danvers. Brooke is following in her father’s career path even though he isn’t showing much excitement over her choice. Brooke’s mother is in her own world with Brooke’s pregnant sister and even more so when Brooke loses her father. Brooke is being sought by a young man who is being groomed to go into politics following in his father’s footsteps. Then enters a blast from Brooke’s past, an old flame named Luke. There are drugs being run through the town Brooke resides in, and there are other nefarious actions that Brooke wants to stop. On top of that, she wants to find out who is responsible for killing her father in a remote area of town. Throughout the book readers will try to solve the murder and find out who is wanting to “own” the town and its people by getting them hooked on drugs.At first, it was a little hard for me to get an understanding of where the story was taking me. I felt dropped into the book without knowing the characters very well. However, I suspect that is part and parcel when starting a new series as like most readers if too much attention is taken to fleshing out the players, I get bored. Patricia Bradley kept me wanting to read the tale and figure out the mystery. She also adds twists and turns that throw off my guesses!I have read most of this authors books and really enjoyed her newest series; I think many will as well. After you read this one, I highly recommend reading her other tales as well as they provide hours of thrills and suspense while waiting for her next one!Note: The opinions shared in this review are solely my responsibility.

[milibrarian · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

Brooke Danvers is excited about moving from being an interpretative ranger on the Natchez Trace to law enforcement, following in the footsteps of her father. The night before she is to be sworn in, her father is murdered trying to prevent a drug deal. Without her knowledge, her childhood friend Luke is working on the drug case as an undercover agent. Tension builds as both Brooke and Luke are threatened and a state representative is killed because of the knowledge the killer believes that they have. A subplot involves a romantic triangle involving Brooke, Luke, and a would-be state senator. Recommended for readers of Irene Hannon and Dani Petrie.

[eamace · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

Fabulous suspense!Wow - don’t expect to put this down before you finish it! The author has done a fabulous job of drawing you into the suspense with the first scene as the young hacker discovers information that absolutely terrifies him. Natchez Mississippi sounds like a lovely region, with plenty of places to explore and enjoy. Unfortunately it also has many off the beaten track areas where those with evil intent can flourish, a wonderful breeding ground for the drug cartel and a problem the Park Rangers are working hard to curtail. As a new law enforcement Ranger, Brooke Danvers seems to get caught in the middle of it all.This page-turner has everything you want in an edge-of-your-seat book that you won’t want to put down until that last period. Even then the mystery, intrigue and suspense will follow you as you try to figure out how you could have missed it - all evidence of an incredibly well-written story. I highly recommend this book, but perhaps not something you should read at night, especially if you live alone.I received an ARC through Baker Publishing Group and NetGalley. My impressions and comments were in no way solicited.

[croknot1 · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

I loved it! I had to keep reading to find out who the killer was. I kept guessing, but didn't figure it out until late in the book. Great read. I received this book through LT for my honest review.

[tealadytoo · Rating: 3 out of 5 stars]

This novel has all the elements of an effective thriller, but falls sort of greatness. I believe the fundamental issue is that there is so much going on in the plot, that the author is unable to explore any of it in depth sufficient to touch the reader’s emotion. We have family secrets, criminal secrets, murder, drug dealing, a love triangle, a cute kid, a cute grandmother, a mole in law enforcement to discover and the occasional spiritual reference thrown in casually. Certainly not a truly bad book, but despite a nicely suspenseful climax, it ultimately falls short of satisfying.I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.