Branded by the Cowboy

Girls this Ben is one fine and sexy cowboy! Oh yes I for one am so happy that our author waited for Patterson and Alayna to hold their wedding so we could get this really GOOD Book out of our author. WoW, Claire was always the clear headed sibling next to Damon so what comes out in this book is surprising but then again on the other hand it is really not so surprising at all. Paula Altenburg tells a story of heartbreak that can only come from a true love. And that is not the romance kind of love, but a love that is born deep, down in your soul. One that grows with each and every day as a child develops within you. Then you have to do what is best for this other person. This book had me thinking long and hard about myself and how lucky I was in my own life. Then we have this rough but giving cowboy Ben, who seems to be in tune with Claire. Who in the world would think that the serial dater would fall for Damon's sister? Or are they just friends? Cherry Lake has quickly become my second favorite little town in Montana and I invite you to come find out why. By the way you do not have to read books 1-2 of The Sweetheat Brand Books to enjoy this book but I highly recommend them (wink)

Branded By Firelight is the third book in the Sweetheart Brand Series. I had not read the previous two works but I still enjoyed this story. It does well as a stand alone novel, but I believe you would enjoy it more if you read "Her Sweetheart Brand" and "Branded With A Kiss" first. I found Paula's writing to be very entertaining. I enjoy a series when former characters are part of the new book. Even though Ben Nichols and Claire Brand are the main characters, many members of their families make an appearance. Ben has a reputation to over come and Claire has a tragic former relationship she's trying to heal from. It is much more than a second chance romance. The story line and growth by both characters was interesting and entertaining. Ben's one liners and the banter between them keeps you smiling. The chemistry and steam between them is very intense. I volunteered to read and review an ARC from Net Galley and Tule Publishers.

Loved this book! It's a fast paced contemporary romance with depth. Claire's back story made for a much richer novel that hooked me from the very first page. Ben is the ultimate playboy who lives life for a good time, not a long time, so Claire is stunned when he is the one to help her during a bad time. Thus begun an uneasy friendship with lots of undertones and angst... The author made me feel invested in the characters and care about their lives. If you enjoy the genre, you will love this book. I've only recently found this author and adore her books. This one is a must read, and if she's new to you (like me), join me in working my way through her back list.