Renewed (Fateful Justice Series) by Sara Vinduska – Review by Stephanie Runyon

Renewed by Sara Vinduska
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Hayden was shot by a homeless man. His horse brought him to Ruby’s cabin, where he was last conscious. Due to a blizzard, she bandaged his shoulder and tied his horse to the porch. She was hiding from her past with Marcus. As snow continues to fall, Seth calls Mark to tell him that Hayden is missing. The last time he had been seen was the previous morning, when he went to check the far pasture fences before the storm. Meanwhile, Forest had come into the station, claiming he had shot a ghost on a horse. Unable to get a clear story, Sheriff Latham had Forest committed for alcohol treatment and mental health. Several days pass before the weather clears enough for Hayden to ride his horse home. Ruby and Hayden bonded closely during the stay. After exchanging numbers, Hayden called when he had a signal and was met by his brother Mark, Whitney, and his parents. He told them what had happened. It was determined that Forest had mistakenly shot Hayden. Whitney interviewed Ruby to conclude their report.
Ruby started packing her suitcases to continue with her plans to drive to Kansas. As she was preparing to leave, Marcus kicked the door in. She backed into the kitchen as he told her that she was his and wasn’t allowed to leave him. Ruby stabbed his shoulder and fled the cabin, running into the woods in just a sweater, leggings, and shoes. Ruby called Hayden while hiding in the woods. After describing her surroundings, Hayden rode across his ranch and found Ruby. He brought her back to his home. She pleaded for him not to pursue Marcus. He agreed and assured her that she was safe. The following day, Ruby reported what had happened. Whitney brought her car and belongings to the ranch. Marcus had tried to follow, but gave up. He left Wyoming and stayed at Congressman Dixon’s home. The Congressman owed Marcus for his lavish lifestyle. Marcus told the Congressman he was going to bring Ruby back home to Orlando. When Marcus receives a call with information about Ruby’s location, Congressman Dixon and his wife take an impromptu vacation to Hawaii
This story has plenty of steamy scenes; however, Sara Vinduska adds several subplots involving Sheriff Latham and his past, Mark and Whitney’s marriage, and several other supporting characters. The plot is intriguing and full of suspense. The characters are well-developed and relatable, and their interactions are relatable. I enjoyed how the investigations and actions of the police were realistic. There weren’t any superhero-style rescues, which made the story even more appealing. The details were vivid, and I could picture the peaceful scenery on the Goddard Ranch. While this is part of a series, Renewed: Fateful Justice is capable of being a standalone romance. I would recommend this five-star story to readers who enjoy romantic suspense stories involving cowboy ranch life.

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