A Western with a Heart.
A Sheriff with a Past.
A Love That Won’t Die.
George T. Arnold’s award-winning novel, The Heart Beneath the Badge rewrites the rules of the Western—blending grit, romance, and redemption in the untamed Texas frontier.
About the Author
George T. Arnold spent 36 years shaping writers at Marshall University. A professor emeritus and nationally recognized journalist, he’s the author of more than 50 professional articles and the bestselling Media Writer’s Handbook. But it’s in fiction—especially Western fiction—where his storytelling truly comes alive.
Arnold’s novels are steeped in authenticity, emotional weight, and richly drawn characters. He writes not just of shootouts and saloons—but of second chances, broken hearts, and the kind of inner grit it takes to survive the Old West. His latest novel, The Heart Beneath the Badge, earned the Western Writers of America Spur Award for Best Western Romance and continues his streak of critically acclaimed, award-winning books.
When you read a George T. Arnold novel, you don’t just visit the West. You feel it in your bones.
The Heart Beneath the Badge
Not every outlaw rides a horse. Not every sheriff wears a halo.
Sheriff Heath Royal has spent decades enforcing justice in Shady Spring, Texas. But now, tormented by a pair of deaths he can’t shake, the aging lawman finds himself drawn to the one place he’s avoided his whole life—church. Sitting quietly in a pew is Rebekka Brando, the widow of a wealthy rancher…and Heath’s first love.
What begins as a reluctant reunion turns into something deeper—a romance rekindled, secrets unpacked, and an old sheriff forced to ask: can a man with blood on his hands still find peace in love?
The Heart Beneath the Badge is a Western that rides on raw emotion and quiet courage. It’s a love story wrapped in gun smoke, set against the brutal beauty of 19th-century Texas.
If you’ve ever thought Westerns were just for men, think again.
Watch the Trailer — Feel the Fire Beneath the Badge
Step inside Shady Spring, Texas. Meet Sheriff Heath Royal and Rebekka Brando. In a town where justice is swift and hearts break slowly, love is the last frontier.
book trailer
Behind the Badge: Stories, History & Heart
Follow George T. Arnold as he shares the untold tales behind the story—from writing insights and Old West history to personal reflections and character deep-dives.
What Readers Are Saying
Real reviews from real readers. Here’s what folks are saying about The Heart Beneath the Badge.
This isn’t your typical shoot-em-up Western. It’s soulful, emotional, and deeply human.
George T. Arnold understands women readers. This romance was patient, powerful, and real.
Absolutely captivating. Heath Royal stole my heart, and Rebekka gave me hope.
awards
George T. Arnold’s award-winning novel The Heart Beneath has been recognized for its exceptional storytelling and literary excellence.
Chatelaine Romance Fiction Award – 1st Place (CIBA)
George T. Arnold’s novel The Heart Beneath was awarded First Place in the Chatelaine Romance Fiction division of the Chanticleer International Book Awards. This honor recognizes exceptional storytelling, romance craft, and emotional resonance.
Best in Category – Chanticleer International Book Awards
At the Chanticleer International Book Awards, Arnold’s work also earned the Best in Category designation, distinguishing it as one of the top works across all submissions. This recognition underscores the novel’s literary quality, creativity, and lasting impact on readers.
