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Barnett Springs Romance
Tangled Past
Forced to marry a man she just met, Sarah McLeod clings to the hope that she’ ll finally find the love and acceptance she’ s always craved. Her tenuous dreams of a happy life on the frontier are in danger of being dashed by the one thing she can’ t change-her husband’ s love for another man.Jackson Kellar’ s determined to do right by his bride, yet he’ s torn between his newfound love for Sarah and his still-burning desire for Nate. Ranch owner Nate Campbell loves them both. He hates to see Jackson’ s loyalties so divided, and doesn’ t want Sarah hurt either. How can they fix the tangled mess they find themselves in? Nate suggests a possible solution-a permanent threesome. With the open frontier closing in around them, is Nate’ s solution their path to happiness-or will others destroy what they’ ve found together?48,000 words
137 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 1, 2011
19 people are currently reading
608 people want to read
About the author
Leah Braemel
26 books335 followersMarried to her college sweetheart and the mother of two sons, Leah is the only woman in a houseful of men—even their dog and cat are male. She loves escaping the ever-multiplying dust bunnies by opening up her laptop to write about sexy heroes and the women who challenge them.
Reviewers have awarded Leah’s books numerous Top Pick and Recommended Reads designations as well as nominated them as Best Contemporary Romance, Best Erotic Romance and Best Ménage and More. Leah has also been nominated as Favorite Author and Best Erotic Romance Author.
Reviewers have awarded Leah’s books numerous Top Pick and Recommended Reads designations as well as nominated them as Best Contemporary Romance, Best Erotic Romance and Best Ménage and More. Leah has also been nominated as Favorite Author and Best Erotic Romance Author.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 78 reviews
June 9, 2011
The first thing that comes to mind when I think menage-a-trois isn't usually the Old West. But if Tangled Past is any indication, maybe it should be.
Sarah is a half-blood Native American, who lives with the step-father who blames her for her mother's affair. She meets Jackson and Nate when the men arrive to buy a horse from her family. But when she finds out her step-father plans to steal back the horse he is selling, she runs to the barn to warn them. And gets an eyeful. Jackson is already naked and Nate is half-way there. When her step-dad finds the three of them in the barn, he thinks Sarah is about to have sex with the men and forces her to marry Jackson. She is happy to escape her home, but isn't sure where she'll fit in Jackson's life.
Despite the fact that Jackson and Nate enjoy some man-loving, both are attracted to Sarah. So after the wedding, Jackson has no problem indoctrinating his wife into the joys of the flesh. Even with their growing connection, his feelings for Nate persist. Nate tries to do the right thing and fights his attraction to both Jackson and Sarah. But who are we kidding? It's only a matter of time until they all get busy together.
So, the sexy times were pretty good here. And there was a fair amount of tension/angst. But I have to say, I got a little skeeved out with the housekeeper pushing Sarah into the threesome. This became even more true (and infinitely more creepy), when she is revealed to be Jackson's grandma and shares her own threesome story. We've also got an Epilogue I could do without, featuring our main characters as grandparents. The last thing I need in this life is to think about grandparents having threesomes. The squick-factor is epic.
Maybe I need to go back and read one of the sex scenes again to cleanse my palate. 3 1/2 stars.
*ARC Provided by NetGalley
Sarah is a half-blood Native American, who lives with the step-father who blames her for her mother's affair. She meets Jackson and Nate when the men arrive to buy a horse from her family. But when she finds out her step-father plans to steal back the horse he is selling, she runs to the barn to warn them. And gets an eyeful. Jackson is already naked and Nate is half-way there. When her step-dad finds the three of them in the barn, he thinks Sarah is about to have sex with the men and forces her to marry Jackson. She is happy to escape her home, but isn't sure where she'll fit in Jackson's life.
Despite the fact that Jackson and Nate enjoy some man-loving, both are attracted to Sarah. So after the wedding, Jackson has no problem indoctrinating his wife into the joys of the flesh. Even with their growing connection, his feelings for Nate persist. Nate tries to do the right thing and fights his attraction to both Jackson and Sarah. But who are we kidding? It's only a matter of time until they all get busy together.
So, the sexy times were pretty good here. And there was a fair amount of tension/angst. But I have to say, I got a little skeeved out with the housekeeper pushing Sarah into the threesome. This became even more true (and infinitely more creepy), when she is revealed to be Jackson's grandma and shares her own threesome story. We've also got an Epilogue I could do without, featuring our main characters as grandparents. The last thing I need in this life is to think about grandparents having threesomes. The squick-factor is epic.
Maybe I need to go back and read one of the sex scenes again to cleanse my palate. 3 1/2 stars.
*ARC Provided by NetGalley
September 16, 2011
When I had to take a break from reading to, say, eat or sleep :) It felt as though I was missing a good friend. You grow the love characters in TANGLED PAST because of the love they have for each other. It's so quick. The situation between Jackson and Sarah. But it's believable for a time when a woman's virtue meant something valuable. The story is set the 1800s. Sarah is half Indian and is criticized about her heritage, called a 'half-breed'. Nate and Jackson are buying stock from her father and spend the night on the ranch and that is when things take place. She becomes the wife of Jackson. Nate and Jackson have to break off their relationship now that Jackson is married. But can they?
From the moment they arrive at Nate's ranch they begin the bonding. Jackson had already taken Sarah in the martial way. He has brought her flowers every morning and just treats her with love. But he has not said he loves her. Sarah knows. Right. Then she overhears Jackson telling Nate something private and she wonders again how Jackson really feels towards her. His own wife. The progression of the story has a very natural feel. The question was could Jackson, Nate and Sarah work together and all be a couple. Once Jackson explained to both Sarah and Nate his feelings towards both of them. They all had to make the choice if they wanted to live and sleep together.
Then when seen from Nate's POV you really want to get the tissues. It could be just the frame of mind to make this such an emotional read but the writing does breath life into the setting and life in the late 1800s on a ranch. You can feel the hard work and labor. The resentment towards half breeds was so callus. At the same time the tone is not preachy. Its subtle enough to sympathize with the character,even if you can't relate. The steamy love scenes are sell it too. The author made me take note if her name and hope to God this is a series!
From the moment they arrive at Nate's ranch they begin the bonding. Jackson had already taken Sarah in the martial way. He has brought her flowers every morning and just treats her with love. But he has not said he loves her. Sarah knows. Right. Then she overhears Jackson telling Nate something private and she wonders again how Jackson really feels towards her. His own wife. The progression of the story has a very natural feel. The question was could Jackson, Nate and Sarah work together and all be a couple. Once Jackson explained to both Sarah and Nate his feelings towards both of them. They all had to make the choice if they wanted to live and sleep together.
Then when seen from Nate's POV you really want to get the tissues. It could be just the frame of mind to make this such an emotional read but the writing does breath life into the setting and life in the late 1800s on a ranch. You can feel the hard work and labor. The resentment towards half breeds was so callus. At the same time the tone is not preachy. Its subtle enough to sympathize with the character,even if you can't relate. The steamy love scenes are sell it too. The author made me take note if her name and hope to God this is a series!
June 10, 2011
I'm sort of "over" ménage stories for the time being. The man sandwich just doesn't sound appetizing to me these days. I ended up picking up this clear ménage books because I saw something somewhere that suggested that the inspiration for this type of book was from the lifestyle of the author's grandmother's grandmother.
Now ... it appears I *may* have dreamed it up because I can't find what I'm talking about to quote it back to you. But real or imagined, that's pretty intriguing, no?
So what made this book so great? For me it's the relationship between the men and how it all plays out to become a threesome. It just feels like such a natural progression and it really felt like the relationship made the most sense. But more than that, I loved that the men weren't already scheming for a gang-bang, like in so many other books. I don't think the men had ever shared a woman before, it's clear that their relationship wasn't about including others.
The character's sense of morals were also nice to see. The two men were just absolutely great, upstanding characters. And the things that the character's must overcome and their willingness to make sacrifices made the book especially enjoyably real.
It's also important to note how well the misunderstandings were executed not too over the top or dragged out -- but I've never read of a house where so many people can sneak up unannounced!
The story was really well paced and unexpected in many respects in terms of the stories development. This is a really well written story, but more than that I felt like it truly was a love not a lust story. Awe.
So this isn't your normal ménage tale, and in my opinion it's a great read for those who like ménage stories and those who aren't partial to them.
Now ... it appears I *may* have dreamed it up because I can't find what I'm talking about to quote it back to you. But real or imagined, that's pretty intriguing, no?
So what made this book so great? For me it's the relationship between the men and how it all plays out to become a threesome. It just feels like such a natural progression and it really felt like the relationship made the most sense. But more than that, I loved that the men weren't already scheming for a gang-bang, like in so many other books. I don't think the men had ever shared a woman before, it's clear that their relationship wasn't about including others.
The character's sense of morals were also nice to see. The two men were just absolutely great, upstanding characters. And the things that the character's must overcome and their willingness to make sacrifices made the book especially enjoyably real.
It's also important to note how well the misunderstandings were executed not too over the top or dragged out -- but I've never read of a house where so many people can sneak up unannounced!
The story was really well paced and unexpected in many respects in terms of the stories development. This is a really well written story, but more than that I felt like it truly was a love not a lust story. Awe.
So this isn't your normal ménage tale, and in my opinion it's a great read for those who like ménage stories and those who aren't partial to them.
July 9, 2011
Liked it, but I wanted to get to know Nate a bit better. I felt sorry for him in a way, being the odd man out. Still a good read with a nice ending.
January 1, 2014
I really liked this story as it wasn't just a sexfest! Yes we had some really steamy scenes but this really was a love story between one woman and two men.
June 22, 2011
Jackson and Nate find themselves at the McLeod ranch for the night after they bought some horses from the owner. Shacked up in the barn, they start to fool around. They have been friends and lovers for quite some time. Meanwhile, McLeod’s daughter Sarah overhears her step-father and associates talking about a scheme to steal back the horses they just sold and resell them. Being half Native American, and the child as a result of her mother’s affair, her relationship with McLeod is rocky at best. Running to the barn to warn Jackson and Nate of this scheme, she sees them half naked and making out, and it turns her on. But soon, McLeod discovers her in the barn, and assumes she was the one who was getting down and dirty. He forces her and Jackson to marry. Since Jackson has no place of his own, they all go back to Nate’s ranch.
As Jackson and Sarah get to know each other, Nate is never far away. He has feelings for Sarah..and Jackson.
Tangled Past is the second ménage story by Leah Braemel, and this time we go back to the late 1800’s I love M/M/F ménages, where the men get some lovin’ between them as well. In this book, Jackson and Nate already have feelings for each other before they meet Sarah. My one sticking point in this book is that Sarah obviously sees Jackson and Nate that first night together. They weren’t quite having sex, but there was definitely sexual activity going on. If anyone else were to have seen this, they would probably both be dead. So this is a big deal. After she is forced to marry Jackson, that night never really comes into play. She never questions Jackson about his attraction to her. Or to Nate. There is never the conflict of – does Jackson have more feelings for Nate than for her? Nate doesn’t come into play in their marriage until later. At first it is just Jackson and Sarah – and I just don’t believe that Sarah would not question Jackson about this more. Later, the elderly woman who helps out at the house pushes Sarah to be in a ménage. Everyone in this book is pro-ménage. Would this really be the case in the late 1800’s? Or even now? Maybe. For me, it seemed to easy. This is actually the same criticism I had of her first book as well.
Getting past that, the sex scenes in this book are smokin’. I remember reading Texas Tangle last year which is a ménage set in present day and thought how well Leah Braemel can write threesomes. Or even twosomes. She just writes good ‘somes. By the end, the ménage made sense to me, even if I wanted them to work a little harder getting there. Overall, a very hot story!
Rating: C+
As Jackson and Sarah get to know each other, Nate is never far away. He has feelings for Sarah..and Jackson.
Tangled Past is the second ménage story by Leah Braemel, and this time we go back to the late 1800’s I love M/M/F ménages, where the men get some lovin’ between them as well. In this book, Jackson and Nate already have feelings for each other before they meet Sarah. My one sticking point in this book is that Sarah obviously sees Jackson and Nate that first night together. They weren’t quite having sex, but there was definitely sexual activity going on. If anyone else were to have seen this, they would probably both be dead. So this is a big deal. After she is forced to marry Jackson, that night never really comes into play. She never questions Jackson about his attraction to her. Or to Nate. There is never the conflict of – does Jackson have more feelings for Nate than for her? Nate doesn’t come into play in their marriage until later. At first it is just Jackson and Sarah – and I just don’t believe that Sarah would not question Jackson about this more. Later, the elderly woman who helps out at the house pushes Sarah to be in a ménage. Everyone in this book is pro-ménage. Would this really be the case in the late 1800’s? Or even now? Maybe. For me, it seemed to easy. This is actually the same criticism I had of her first book as well.
Getting past that, the sex scenes in this book are smokin’. I remember reading Texas Tangle last year which is a ménage set in present day and thought how well Leah Braemel can write threesomes. Or even twosomes. She just writes good ‘somes. By the end, the ménage made sense to me, even if I wanted them to work a little harder getting there. Overall, a very hot story!
Rating: C+
August 23, 2011
This is the first book by Leah Braemel that I’ve read, but it certainly won’t be the last. Sarah and Jackson are forced to wed, but Sarah can’t help but wonder if she’ll ever have all of her husband, who is in love with his best friend Nate. And the more time Sarah spends with Nate, she starts to fall in love with him too.
It sounds trite, and cheesy, but Braemel does a great job at making their relationships realistic. The depth of affection happens gradually, and is tested by the stress of everyday life in close quarters. I appreciated that these are not wealthy landowners who live the rich life, but rather homesteaders struggling to earn a living. Even Nate isn’t wealthy, just comfortable.
Braemel establishes that the sexual chemistry is there, but the real question is – can they all accept a happily-ever-after that includes them all? I can’t wait to read more of her titles.
It sounds trite, and cheesy, but Braemel does a great job at making their relationships realistic. The depth of affection happens gradually, and is tested by the stress of everyday life in close quarters. I appreciated that these are not wealthy landowners who live the rich life, but rather homesteaders struggling to earn a living. Even Nate isn’t wealthy, just comfortable.
Braemel establishes that the sexual chemistry is there, but the real question is – can they all accept a happily-ever-after that includes them all? I can’t wait to read more of her titles.
March 31, 2014
This is a 2.5 star for me. I am a fan of Ms. Braemel so it pains me to rate this only a 2.5. I can't say I really enjoyed this book. I like menage. I like kink stories. I love mmf. I just couldn't get into this book and I think it's because of the setting. It's a western w/ cowboys. I was hoping that because it's a Ms. Braemel book, I'd enjoy it which would be a 3. I didn't.
The menage was good! The sex is HAWT! Ms. Braemel does a great job. The characters are okay. The interracial with the issue against Indian or half-breeds was a decent touch. I thought it was well done. The conflict in the story was also good. I just couldn't get into. :/
I still think this is a well written menage and recommended for readers who love cowboys and Indians.
The menage was good! The sex is HAWT! Ms. Braemel does a great job. The characters are okay. The interracial with the issue against Indian or half-breeds was a decent touch. I thought it was well done. The conflict in the story was also good. I just couldn't get into. :/
I still think this is a well written menage and recommended for readers who love cowboys and Indians.
August 25, 2011
Nate and Jackson find themselves staying the night in Mr McLeod’s barn when they visit his home to buy a horse. Little do they know that McLeod is a horse rustler and plans to attack the two men and steal back the horse after they leave. McLeod’s stepdaughter, Sarah, overhears the dastardly plan and heads off to warn the two men, unwittingly interrupting them during an intimate time. McLeod, who has always hated Sarah as she is blatantly not his child, finds Sarah in the barn with the half naked men and assumes the worse. He forces her to marry Jackson (who is actually naked!), ultimately ending the men’s relationship and sending Sarah away with a man he knows nothing about. Fortunately for Sarah, Jackson promises to be a good husband. As he has no home of his own, the happy couple are forced to move into Nate’s house. As content as everyone seems on the surface, the situation is not easy on any on any of them. Jackson has to try to turn off his feelings for Nate, Nate has to deal with the sounds of the happy couple having sex through the adjoining wall and Sarah has to deal with the fact there is a real possibility she has taken her husband away from the person he truly loves. Will any of them truly be happy or will they have to shut off parts of themselves to be content with the situation. When Nate suggests a permanent threesome, it seems to be the only solution to their problems. But this is 1800’s, will this be a situation that will be appealing to Sarah? Moreover, how will everyone else react?
I always like ménage books where all the members are attracted to each other. In this book it begins with the men’s relationship; the only reason Sarah is introduced into it is for proprieties sake. The men know that their relationship will not be accepted by the general populous so Sarah’s impromptu visit to their sleeping quarters was fortuitous for the both of them. Poor Sarah didn’t have really much of an option and I did feel sorry for her. She was made to feel unwanted by her Step-Father after her Mother died, under constant threat of sexual attack by the sleazy Walt and then is forced to marry a man she doesn’t know. He could have been a serial killer for all she knew, but she still had to go with him. After the way her Step-Father treated her, she can’t bear to be an unwanted presence in someone else’s house, but she is left without a choice. Her situation was untenable...I wanted to cry for her. She quickly bucks up and tries to become a good wife to Jackson, but part of her wants him to be happy, which she assumes will only happen if he is with Nate.
Jackson steps up to the plate and does what he thinks is right when confronted by Sarah’s douchey Father. He loves Nate, but they both know that there will soon be dangerous whispers about how close they are. As he is the one naked, her Father assumes that he is the one that slept with her, so he has to be the one that marries her. He wants to be a good husband but, unfortunately, Jackson isn’t the richest person in the world and they have to go live with Nate. The situation isn’t exactly ideal! He loves Nate, fantasies about Nate and it breaks his heart to see him miserable in this situation. Yet, he can’t help but fall in love with Sarah. She’s feisty, protective and accepts him for what he is. How can he help himself?
My heart broke at various intervals of this book for poor Nate. First he has to watch the man he loves marry the woman that he is attracted to (he actually did spot her first), then he has to watch them figure out to become man and wife and to top it all off he has to listen to them have sex every night. There is a particularly erotic scene where he masturbates to the sound of them “knocking boots” whilst fantasizing about being with them both. It is hot, yet a little sad at the same time as it showed his loneliness. I had very conflicting emotions throughout this book!
The suggestion to become a threesome comes at the end of a series events that are, again, very bad for Nate. It felt like the only solution, they clearly weren’t going to be happy any other way. On a side note, I’m not telling you anything that isn’t in the blurb here so this isn’t a spoiler. The twist at the end was random. I could have done without being thrown a curve ball at the end of a novella I enjoyed, but it was a small enough scene to make me gloss over it.
An angst-filled novella that was steamy enough to hook me whilst having enough drama to keep me entertained at the scenes in-between. A good read.
I always like ménage books where all the members are attracted to each other. In this book it begins with the men’s relationship; the only reason Sarah is introduced into it is for proprieties sake. The men know that their relationship will not be accepted by the general populous so Sarah’s impromptu visit to their sleeping quarters was fortuitous for the both of them. Poor Sarah didn’t have really much of an option and I did feel sorry for her. She was made to feel unwanted by her Step-Father after her Mother died, under constant threat of sexual attack by the sleazy Walt and then is forced to marry a man she doesn’t know. He could have been a serial killer for all she knew, but she still had to go with him. After the way her Step-Father treated her, she can’t bear to be an unwanted presence in someone else’s house, but she is left without a choice. Her situation was untenable...I wanted to cry for her. She quickly bucks up and tries to become a good wife to Jackson, but part of her wants him to be happy, which she assumes will only happen if he is with Nate.
Jackson steps up to the plate and does what he thinks is right when confronted by Sarah’s douchey Father. He loves Nate, but they both know that there will soon be dangerous whispers about how close they are. As he is the one naked, her Father assumes that he is the one that slept with her, so he has to be the one that marries her. He wants to be a good husband but, unfortunately, Jackson isn’t the richest person in the world and they have to go live with Nate. The situation isn’t exactly ideal! He loves Nate, fantasies about Nate and it breaks his heart to see him miserable in this situation. Yet, he can’t help but fall in love with Sarah. She’s feisty, protective and accepts him for what he is. How can he help himself?
My heart broke at various intervals of this book for poor Nate. First he has to watch the man he loves marry the woman that he is attracted to (he actually did spot her first), then he has to watch them figure out to become man and wife and to top it all off he has to listen to them have sex every night. There is a particularly erotic scene where he masturbates to the sound of them “knocking boots” whilst fantasizing about being with them both. It is hot, yet a little sad at the same time as it showed his loneliness. I had very conflicting emotions throughout this book!
The suggestion to become a threesome comes at the end of a series events that are, again, very bad for Nate. It felt like the only solution, they clearly weren’t going to be happy any other way. On a side note, I’m not telling you anything that isn’t in the blurb here so this isn’t a spoiler. The twist at the end was random. I could have done without being thrown a curve ball at the end of a novella I enjoyed, but it was a small enough scene to make me gloss over it.
An angst-filled novella that was steamy enough to hook me whilst having enough drama to keep me entertained at the scenes in-between. A good read.
July 13, 2014
Jackson and Nate share a dangerous passion for one another in a period in history where it is likely to lead to their death. Sarah is found with the men while they were in a compromising position, and she is forced into marriage with Jackson. Coming between the two men who clearly love one another was never her intention, but she finds herself emotionally tangled and fantasizing about being between them. To make the situation work, they must all make compromises, but at what cost?
Loved this glimpse back in time to how Dillon's (Texas Tangle) grandparents came together. All the characters where strong, and you could really feel how emotionally tangled they were in how they were going to solve the situation they found themselves in. I liked how you could feel the emotions building between them all, and the beauty of it when they finally were able to be together.
Loved this glimpse back in time to how Dillon's (Texas Tangle) grandparents came together. All the characters where strong, and you could really feel how emotionally tangled they were in how they were going to solve the situation they found themselves in. I liked how you could feel the emotions building between them all, and the beauty of it when they finally were able to be together.
June 6, 2011
I loved this story. This takes place in Texas in the 1880"s and two of the characters are part American Indian. Although this is an erotic western and has some nice m/m action, the main theme deals with overcoming prejudice and coming to terms about being in a committed triad relationship in a time when men having sex with each other is punished by hanging.
Great story.
**I received this ARC from NetGalley**
Great story.
**I received this ARC from NetGalley**
March 13, 2016
3.5 - I liked this novella - just coulda been longer.
July 22, 2011
Review coming. I liked. There were just a few confusing transition moments.
March 15, 2023
Sarah was a young woman in the 1800’s who was forced by her stepfather to marry Jackson because they were caught together, but they cared for each other. However, Jackson was already in love with Nate, his best friend and the owner of a nearby ranch. Nate had hoped to court Sarah, but he had to watch his best friend marry her. When given an opportunity for the three of them to have their cake and eat it too, they must make a decision.
This was a lovely MMF romance. I am a big fan of historical romance, and with the cowboys and the man-love, this was just an awesome book for me. The characters were well-developed and the book was well-written. The MC’s had amazing chemistry together and I enjoyed watching theri connection develop and grow into a beautiful, loving relationship over the course of the story. There was lots of heat and steam, and I was highly satisfied how it all worked out for them in the end.
I received an ARC of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This was a lovely MMF romance. I am a big fan of historical romance, and with the cowboys and the man-love, this was just an awesome book for me. The characters were well-developed and the book was well-written. The MC’s had amazing chemistry together and I enjoyed watching theri connection develop and grow into a beautiful, loving relationship over the course of the story. There was lots of heat and steam, and I was highly satisfied how it all worked out for them in the end.
I received an ARC of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 1, 2023
After reading the snippet from this novel, my fingers itched to open and swipe the first page. I had hoped that the synopsis did not overreach and my hopes were confirmed before the end of the first chapter. The way these three lovely people found each other was almost magical. There was no animosity between them, only love and longing throughout most of the book til the end made me feel all their emotions. I hate but understand that there are hateful, awful, hurtful people, but it only made Sarah stronger. Nate and Jackson's love allowed them to love Sarah purely and unconditionally. This is an amazing read, and I cannot say enough good words without spoiling the book! I have to read more of Leah Braemel's works! You have a new fan! 5 out of 5 kisses!!!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 24, 2023
Will they become a family?
Two friends in a taboo relationship based on the time frame of this book find that fate is going to throw a monkey wrench into their lives. A young woman who life is a far from good will enter their lives. One will be forced to marry her but will this be the end of the friends’ relationship too? The book showcases some people’s outlook at this time in fact for many they still feel this way but the book did it in an excellent way. It is very steamy, with some grand twist, and a very good ending. It was a book I enjoyed reading. I did receive a free copy of this book from Booksprout and voluntarily chose to review it.
Two friends in a taboo relationship based on the time frame of this book find that fate is going to throw a monkey wrench into their lives. A young woman who life is a far from good will enter their lives. One will be forced to marry her but will this be the end of the friends’ relationship too? The book showcases some people’s outlook at this time in fact for many they still feel this way but the book did it in an excellent way. It is very steamy, with some grand twist, and a very good ending. It was a book I enjoyed reading. I did receive a free copy of this book from Booksprout and voluntarily chose to review it.
March 3, 2023
Taboo Love in the Old West
Nate and Jackson have loved each other a long time, but a love like there’s isn’t tolerated, and they could be lynched for their relationship. Sarah also isn’t tolerated - her mother slept with an Indian man while married to someone else, so she has always been a reminder of infidelity. When Jackson is forced to marry Sarah, what starts out as a scary start to their relationship and the end of Jackson and Nate’s turns out to be anything but. I found it sweet how Sarah and Jackson grew to love each other, and how they expanded their love to include Nate. A wonderfully written and expressively told story.
March 10, 2023
I really enjoyed this book. I only on rare occasions read historical romance and not too often westerns, but the premise of this storyline intrigued me and I do love MMF, so I had to see how this situation would turn out. Also throw in that for this time period, a MM relationship was taboo. I really loved all three characters. Nate and Jackson had such great chemistry together, but Sarah only adds to their dynamic. I really liked her.
I could really hear these characters' voices in the way they talked and picture them in my mind as I read. I was hooked from the start and couldn't put it down. This was the first book I've read by this author and I would read more. 5 stars.
I could really hear these characters' voices in the way they talked and picture them in my mind as I read. I was hooked from the start and couldn't put it down. This was the first book I've read by this author and I would read more. 5 stars.
March 6, 2023
This is a romance that is heavy hearted, mixed with loss, hatred, honor, friendship and love. The story will have you taking a moment as uncertainty fills the pages.
Set in the 1800's where who you loved was frowned upon. Jackson and Nate had to hide the true feelings. When fate brought Sarah into their folds, what appeared to be the beginning of a loss turned to the blossoming love.
This is a well written story of love and acceptance.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Set in the 1800's where who you loved was frowned upon. Jackson and Nate had to hide the true feelings. When fate brought Sarah into their folds, what appeared to be the beginning of a loss turned to the blossoming love.
This is a well written story of love and acceptance.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 27, 2023
This was a good MMF ménage romance. It was set in the 1880’s and I have never read a historical ménage romance before so that was a nice change of pace. Usually I’m not real partial to the MMF variety but it worked for this story. It was full of steam and a lot of chemistry between all three. I liked it.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 2, 2023
This was a wonderful book, it was well written...had a great storyline...great characters and was definitely worth the read.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 12, 2021
I enjoyed this book about western times of old. This was a quick read and a sweet story.
July 29, 2011
It's 1887, and homosexuals are lynched without a trial. It is the norm. It is also only a few years since President U. S. Grant has declared: "The only good Indian is a dead Indian." This story embraces the prejudices that grow out those realities and the characters in this story must deal realitically or lose their lives.
Sarah McLeod is grieving over the death of her mother, living in the home of her mother's husband who looks down on her as a sub-human because her father was an Indian. She is treated as a servant, and her stepfather makes no bones about the fact that she is property to him. He easily sells off or destroys animals or items that were her mother's and which are important to her. Her feelings carry no weight with him. He and his son and ranch foreman are also involved in a scam where they sell horses or cattle to other ranchers and then manage to steal them back. Sarah becomes privy to this information and she makes her way out to the barn to warn Nate & Jackson who will be journeying home in the morning. As she is really, really quiet in order not to alert her stepfather that she is warning these potential victims of his scam, she sees Nate and Jackson in each other's arms. Because the ranch foreman catches her in the barn with a naked man--Jackson, he demands that they marry and he take her away. An easy solution on how to get rid of a woman who he really doesn't want around anyway. Because Nate still had his jeans on, Jackson is deemed guilty of compromising Sarah's virtue. Close call, and one that alerts Nate and Jackson that they are getting sloppy about acting on their love for each other. Sarah, unbeknownst to these two men, saw their advances toward one another as being "beautiful." Her open heart and attitude will serve her well in the future.
This is a story that is exclusively about the relationship between these three people. Jackson is a man of honor, and since he is bi-sexual, his wooing and bedding of Sarah is caring and gentle, and within the context of his determination to be a really good husband to her and to remain faithful to her in spite of his on-going love for Nate. Nate, too, was a man of honor, for in spite of his growing attraction to Sarah, he did everything he could to support her marriage and to be just a friend to both her and Jackson. It is only when he is injured, when his life is truly in danger, that Jackson lets down the walls and begs Nate to live, and Sarah is faced with their love far more overtly than had so far been the case.
There is deep hurt here and a sense of loss, that there is really so little chance that these two really fine men will ever be free to express their love for each other. Add in the fact that both love Sarah deeply, and you have a story that will take the reader on an emotional roller coaster. With a writer of Ms Braemel's expertise, it will not be difficult to literally enter into this story and be deeply touched by their joys and disappointments. One part of the side story that gave me a bit of a joy--her stepdad, her stepbrother, and the ranch foreman were eventually caught and paid for their crimes, thereby freeing Sarah from any contact with them in the future, and with the eventual death of Mr. McLeod, Sarah inherits the ranch where she experienced so much hurt and humiliation. I don't think she ever lived there again.
This is a really fine novel and one that will not be difficult to read even though it is not a simplistic love story. It is so well-written. I have read one or two of Braemel's past efforts and I have come to enjoy her writing style very much. And while the epilogue clues the reader in to the ultimate outcome of their life together, I was somewhat disappointed that the author brought the immediate resolution of their personal crisis to such an abrupt end. In light of the social difficulties for bi-sexual persons, there was lots that could have entered into this story that was left unsaid. Of course, that may be contrary to the author's intent and may have resulted in a novel that took their story in an altogether different direction. All in all, it was vastly entertaining.
I give this novel a rating of 4 out of 5.
This review was originally posted on Book Binge by Judith.
Sarah McLeod is grieving over the death of her mother, living in the home of her mother's husband who looks down on her as a sub-human because her father was an Indian. She is treated as a servant, and her stepfather makes no bones about the fact that she is property to him. He easily sells off or destroys animals or items that were her mother's and which are important to her. Her feelings carry no weight with him. He and his son and ranch foreman are also involved in a scam where they sell horses or cattle to other ranchers and then manage to steal them back. Sarah becomes privy to this information and she makes her way out to the barn to warn Nate & Jackson who will be journeying home in the morning. As she is really, really quiet in order not to alert her stepfather that she is warning these potential victims of his scam, she sees Nate and Jackson in each other's arms. Because the ranch foreman catches her in the barn with a naked man--Jackson, he demands that they marry and he take her away. An easy solution on how to get rid of a woman who he really doesn't want around anyway. Because Nate still had his jeans on, Jackson is deemed guilty of compromising Sarah's virtue. Close call, and one that alerts Nate and Jackson that they are getting sloppy about acting on their love for each other. Sarah, unbeknownst to these two men, saw their advances toward one another as being "beautiful." Her open heart and attitude will serve her well in the future.
This is a story that is exclusively about the relationship between these three people. Jackson is a man of honor, and since he is bi-sexual, his wooing and bedding of Sarah is caring and gentle, and within the context of his determination to be a really good husband to her and to remain faithful to her in spite of his on-going love for Nate. Nate, too, was a man of honor, for in spite of his growing attraction to Sarah, he did everything he could to support her marriage and to be just a friend to both her and Jackson. It is only when he is injured, when his life is truly in danger, that Jackson lets down the walls and begs Nate to live, and Sarah is faced with their love far more overtly than had so far been the case.
There is deep hurt here and a sense of loss, that there is really so little chance that these two really fine men will ever be free to express their love for each other. Add in the fact that both love Sarah deeply, and you have a story that will take the reader on an emotional roller coaster. With a writer of Ms Braemel's expertise, it will not be difficult to literally enter into this story and be deeply touched by their joys and disappointments. One part of the side story that gave me a bit of a joy--her stepdad, her stepbrother, and the ranch foreman were eventually caught and paid for their crimes, thereby freeing Sarah from any contact with them in the future, and with the eventual death of Mr. McLeod, Sarah inherits the ranch where she experienced so much hurt and humiliation. I don't think she ever lived there again.
This is a really fine novel and one that will not be difficult to read even though it is not a simplistic love story. It is so well-written. I have read one or two of Braemel's past efforts and I have come to enjoy her writing style very much. And while the epilogue clues the reader in to the ultimate outcome of their life together, I was somewhat disappointed that the author brought the immediate resolution of their personal crisis to such an abrupt end. In light of the social difficulties for bi-sexual persons, there was lots that could have entered into this story that was left unsaid. Of course, that may be contrary to the author's intent and may have resulted in a novel that took their story in an altogether different direction. All in all, it was vastly entertaining.
I give this novel a rating of 4 out of 5.
This review was originally posted on Book Binge by Judith.
June 21, 2011
I received a eARC of Tangled Past from Carina Press through netgalley.com for my honest opinion and review.
I have to admit this is the first time i have ever had the opportunity to read a erotic historical romance. I was pleasantly surprised by Tangled Past by Leah Braemel. Honestly I've never read any of her books before but i kept hearing about this book and her other kind of related release Texas Tangle. Tangled past is set 130 years before Texas Tangle. I requested a copy of Tangled Past from netgalley so i could check it out and and was excited to get it. Let's start with my favorite part when checking out a book. The blurb!
Carina Press
Genre: Historical Erotic Romance
Series: Tangled Series
Length: Category Romance (48,000 words)
Format: ebook only
Read More…
1887, Texas
Forced to marry a man she just met, Sarah McLeod clings to the hope that she’ll finally find the love and acceptance she’s always craved. But her tenuous dreams of a happy life on the frontier are in danger of being dashed by the one thing she can’t change—her husband’s love for another man.
Jackson Kellar’s determined to do right by his bride, yet he’s torn between his new found love for Sarah and his still-burning desire for Nate.
Ranch owner Nate Campbell loves them both. He hates to see Jackson’s loyalties so divided, and doesn’t want Sarah hurt either. But how can they fix the tangled mess they find themselves in? Nate suggests a possible solution – a permanent threesome.
With the open frontier closing in around them, is Nate’s solution their path to happiness? Or will others destroy what they’ve found together?
Note from author. This book is inspired by the Barnett family dinner scene in Texas Tangle where Grandma Barnett mentions her grandparents’ marriage. It stands alone and you will not have to have read Texas Tangle to understand it.
I didn't know what to expect when i started this but i was quickly drawn in by the story. It's a historical western that just happens to be erotica as well. I was surprised that the author exposed Jackson and Nate's relationship so fast to Sarah. She finds them together when trying to warn them about what her father is planning against them. They are both half dressed sleeping in her fathers barn and then Jackson gets caught pretty much with his pants down when Sarah's father comes and catches them and forces them to marry. He is glad to get rid of her since he didn't really father her( her father was really a Native American indian). In a way Sarah is happy to get away from her dad(step-dad) and half-brother who have been cruel to her and treated her like a slave and belittled her Native American heritage. Jackson has no place of his own since he is a ranch hand on Nate's Ranch but Nate's doesn't want to lose Jackson so he volunteers his place for the 3 of them to live for now. From here you get to see how the relationship between Jackson and Sarah grows and how Nate will fit into it. I loved how Jackson treated Sarah the first time he takes her to bed. How he teachers her to please him and herself in bed and their love for each other grows. Still Nate is a presence in their lives and Sarah finds she is attracted to him as well. Now what?? That's the big question and after a bad accident severely injures Nate, Sarah has to decide what will happen next. I have to say i love epilogues in books. Tangled Past has a nice epilogue that tells you how things are years after the book ends. I really enjoyed the book and plan to read the Texas Tangle at first opportunity. Find out the author and this book and read a excerpt at her website by clicking here www.leahbraemel.com . I give Tangled Past 4 out of 5 Modokker Book Pick stars. Great sex scenes to go with a really good story. What more could you ask for??
I have to admit this is the first time i have ever had the opportunity to read a erotic historical romance. I was pleasantly surprised by Tangled Past by Leah Braemel. Honestly I've never read any of her books before but i kept hearing about this book and her other kind of related release Texas Tangle. Tangled past is set 130 years before Texas Tangle. I requested a copy of Tangled Past from netgalley so i could check it out and and was excited to get it. Let's start with my favorite part when checking out a book. The blurb!
Carina Press
Genre: Historical Erotic Romance
Series: Tangled Series
Length: Category Romance (48,000 words)
Format: ebook only
Read More…
1887, Texas
Forced to marry a man she just met, Sarah McLeod clings to the hope that she’ll finally find the love and acceptance she’s always craved. But her tenuous dreams of a happy life on the frontier are in danger of being dashed by the one thing she can’t change—her husband’s love for another man.
Jackson Kellar’s determined to do right by his bride, yet he’s torn between his new found love for Sarah and his still-burning desire for Nate.
Ranch owner Nate Campbell loves them both. He hates to see Jackson’s loyalties so divided, and doesn’t want Sarah hurt either. But how can they fix the tangled mess they find themselves in? Nate suggests a possible solution – a permanent threesome.
With the open frontier closing in around them, is Nate’s solution their path to happiness? Or will others destroy what they’ve found together?
Note from author. This book is inspired by the Barnett family dinner scene in Texas Tangle where Grandma Barnett mentions her grandparents’ marriage. It stands alone and you will not have to have read Texas Tangle to understand it.
I didn't know what to expect when i started this but i was quickly drawn in by the story. It's a historical western that just happens to be erotica as well. I was surprised that the author exposed Jackson and Nate's relationship so fast to Sarah. She finds them together when trying to warn them about what her father is planning against them. They are both half dressed sleeping in her fathers barn and then Jackson gets caught pretty much with his pants down when Sarah's father comes and catches them and forces them to marry. He is glad to get rid of her since he didn't really father her( her father was really a Native American indian). In a way Sarah is happy to get away from her dad(step-dad) and half-brother who have been cruel to her and treated her like a slave and belittled her Native American heritage. Jackson has no place of his own since he is a ranch hand on Nate's Ranch but Nate's doesn't want to lose Jackson so he volunteers his place for the 3 of them to live for now. From here you get to see how the relationship between Jackson and Sarah grows and how Nate will fit into it. I loved how Jackson treated Sarah the first time he takes her to bed. How he teachers her to please him and herself in bed and their love for each other grows. Still Nate is a presence in their lives and Sarah finds she is attracted to him as well. Now what?? That's the big question and after a bad accident severely injures Nate, Sarah has to decide what will happen next. I have to say i love epilogues in books. Tangled Past has a nice epilogue that tells you how things are years after the book ends. I really enjoyed the book and plan to read the Texas Tangle at first opportunity. Find out the author and this book and read a excerpt at her website by clicking here www.leahbraemel.com . I give Tangled Past 4 out of 5 Modokker Book Pick stars. Great sex scenes to go with a really good story. What more could you ask for??
July 12, 2011
{Rated 3.5/5 on the blog.}
In under Fifty-thousand words, Leah Braemel managed to transport me to a time where cowboys rope and ride, woman had yet to become liberated, and any sign of a man showing affection towards another man would have caused their death. Welcome to the Wild-Wild-West, emphasis on the 'wild' because this isn't the frontier land we learn about in school. No, this is much more sexy!
Having stumbled upon two half dressed cowboys during a sensual moment, Sarah McLeod inadvertently put herself in a compromising situation. Not willing to turn the men in and cause their death, she is forced to marry the sexy, half Indian cowboy Jackson. She may be nervous and angry that her fate has been sealed for her, but she can't help but be pleased that she would finally be able to get away from her cruel father. Not to mention, something deep inside Sarah calls to Jackson, including the desire to find herself between him and his best friend and lover, Nate. When Jackson awakens her sexually and she's living under the same roof as both men, caring for them and they her, those feelings only intensify.
Conflict is emotional in this short story. I adored both Jackson (and Nate) taking Jackson's wedding vows seriously, despite how hard it's been to have to stay away from each other. But at the same time I couldn't help but feel sorry for both men having to bury their love for one another, primarily because of the time period. And Sarah feels the same way.
Both men care deeply for Sarah, as she does them, but none of the players of this odd affectionate triangle know how to make everyone happy until Nate finally has the perfect plan - a threesome for life.
The characters are definitely dimensional, with their emotions being able to be identified and felt. You can feel the tension, conflict, hurt, and passion that all the characters experience as they come to terms with the hand that life's dealt them. I especially enjoyed Sarah. She was able to come to her own opinions and feelings towards Jackson's and Nate's love for one another as well as her own towards them without feeling overly wrought about what others might speculate. She was strong, determined, and level-headed.
The lovin' scenes in this book were nothing short of smokin' hot!! I'm not a reader that has managed to take the 'f' out of m/f/m --yet, but Leah Braemel may just let me!! Wow, did I enjoy all the interactions she created: f/m, m/f/m, and m/m! I think it all hinged on the fact that she really did a great job at creating some good and believable characters.
The only little qualm I had was believing in a parallel story of the older 'care taker' also being part of a threesome once-upon-a-time. It almost seemed to easy, but it did help move the main characters along their journey, so I went with it.
Filled with 'western' dialogue, a cowboy's ranch, and all the main things that make this a period story, I felt transported to a time where some cowboys hid their true inner desires, and the woman they love can accept them for who they are. This was a great story with some great characters and some very hot sexin' scenes. I'll definitely be looking forward to what Ms. Braemel has in store next for us!
In under Fifty-thousand words, Leah Braemel managed to transport me to a time where cowboys rope and ride, woman had yet to become liberated, and any sign of a man showing affection towards another man would have caused their death. Welcome to the Wild-Wild-West, emphasis on the 'wild' because this isn't the frontier land we learn about in school. No, this is much more sexy!
Having stumbled upon two half dressed cowboys during a sensual moment, Sarah McLeod inadvertently put herself in a compromising situation. Not willing to turn the men in and cause their death, she is forced to marry the sexy, half Indian cowboy Jackson. She may be nervous and angry that her fate has been sealed for her, but she can't help but be pleased that she would finally be able to get away from her cruel father. Not to mention, something deep inside Sarah calls to Jackson, including the desire to find herself between him and his best friend and lover, Nate. When Jackson awakens her sexually and she's living under the same roof as both men, caring for them and they her, those feelings only intensify.
Conflict is emotional in this short story. I adored both Jackson (and Nate) taking Jackson's wedding vows seriously, despite how hard it's been to have to stay away from each other. But at the same time I couldn't help but feel sorry for both men having to bury their love for one another, primarily because of the time period. And Sarah feels the same way.
Both men care deeply for Sarah, as she does them, but none of the players of this odd affectionate triangle know how to make everyone happy until Nate finally has the perfect plan - a threesome for life.
The characters are definitely dimensional, with their emotions being able to be identified and felt. You can feel the tension, conflict, hurt, and passion that all the characters experience as they come to terms with the hand that life's dealt them. I especially enjoyed Sarah. She was able to come to her own opinions and feelings towards Jackson's and Nate's love for one another as well as her own towards them without feeling overly wrought about what others might speculate. She was strong, determined, and level-headed.
The lovin' scenes in this book were nothing short of smokin' hot!! I'm not a reader that has managed to take the 'f' out of m/f/m --yet, but Leah Braemel may just let me!! Wow, did I enjoy all the interactions she created: f/m, m/f/m, and m/m! I think it all hinged on the fact that she really did a great job at creating some good and believable characters.
The only little qualm I had was believing in a parallel story of the older 'care taker' also being part of a threesome once-upon-a-time. It almost seemed to easy, but it did help move the main characters along their journey, so I went with it.
Filled with 'western' dialogue, a cowboy's ranch, and all the main things that make this a period story, I felt transported to a time where some cowboys hid their true inner desires, and the woman they love can accept them for who they are. This was a great story with some great characters and some very hot sexin' scenes. I'll definitely be looking forward to what Ms. Braemel has in store next for us!
February 8, 2012
Coming off her previous menage story Texas Tangle, Ms. Braemel is revisiting the family in this historical prequel set in the 1880's where homosexual couplings resulted in death. For Jackson Kellar and Nate Campbell all they want to do is live their life in peace sharing farm work and their bed without fear from their neighbors. Enter Sarah McLeod, half-Indian with a father and brother who treat her like garbage, who gets wrangled into marrying Jackson after being discovered in a compromising position. Even though he loves Nate he wants to do right by Sarah who's had a tough life before marrying him. He finds her attractive and sees no problem in creating a future with her if he can just get past his feelings of inferiority when it comes to his bank account. When Nate gets hurt though, Jackson can't keep his feeling for the man contained any longer. To find happiness, Sarah must admit that two men are better than one and that she's more than a way to keep their secret, she's the final piece to their happily ever after.
This was a pleasant read with likable characters that had a strong connection. Sarah seemed rather weak-willed at the start but I was happy to see that as the story progressed so too did she gain strength. Being away from the verbal abuse spewed at her by her family definitely helped as did the encouragement to be bold by two strong and sexy men. Nate and Jackson were equally as enjoyable to read. Both men were distinctly different with what they brought to the relationship. I loved the brute sexual tension that always surrounded them and their sexual interludes were hot. Adding Sarah into the mix only added to the heat. The love between the three of them felt realistic, but in the real world I can't quite believe that a relationship like theirs would be tolerated. If a homosexual relationship meant death, then surely the small town townspeople would be equally upset by a three-way relationship. But with a well-written story like this it's easy to put thoughts of the real world aside.
The villains in this story were pretty stereotypical as were their actions. This story is definitely about characters and not action based as that part of the story fell flat for me. Seeing characters evolve and accept happiness where they can find it is the focus of this story.
Even though this is connected to Texas Tangle there's no need to have read it to find enjoyment in this book. It can and does stand nicely on its own with satisfyingly steamy sexual interludes and two heroes that are to die for that would easily make a girl jump at the chance to be a part of their menage. Leah Braemel has again created a satisfying menage story and presents it in a believable way that immerses the reader wholeheartedly from the start. When looking for a well-written menage story in the future, I'll definitely be looking towards Ms. Braemel's books.
This was a pleasant read with likable characters that had a strong connection. Sarah seemed rather weak-willed at the start but I was happy to see that as the story progressed so too did she gain strength. Being away from the verbal abuse spewed at her by her family definitely helped as did the encouragement to be bold by two strong and sexy men. Nate and Jackson were equally as enjoyable to read. Both men were distinctly different with what they brought to the relationship. I loved the brute sexual tension that always surrounded them and their sexual interludes were hot. Adding Sarah into the mix only added to the heat. The love between the three of them felt realistic, but in the real world I can't quite believe that a relationship like theirs would be tolerated. If a homosexual relationship meant death, then surely the small town townspeople would be equally upset by a three-way relationship. But with a well-written story like this it's easy to put thoughts of the real world aside.
The villains in this story were pretty stereotypical as were their actions. This story is definitely about characters and not action based as that part of the story fell flat for me. Seeing characters evolve and accept happiness where they can find it is the focus of this story.
Even though this is connected to Texas Tangle there's no need to have read it to find enjoyment in this book. It can and does stand nicely on its own with satisfyingly steamy sexual interludes and two heroes that are to die for that would easily make a girl jump at the chance to be a part of their menage. Leah Braemel has again created a satisfying menage story and presents it in a believable way that immerses the reader wholeheartedly from the start. When looking for a well-written menage story in the future, I'll definitely be looking towards Ms. Braemel's books.
August 16, 2011
For being only 134 pages this story packed a punch. It starts off immediately with Nate and Jackson at the McLeod ranch getting attacked my a crazed shovel wielding Sarah. She see's Nate and Jackson taking off with her horse and assumes that they are stealing it. After a good kneeing to Nate's groin, Jackson secures Sarah and gets her to calm down before he explains that they bought the horses from her father. Later that night while in her room she overhears her father, brother and farmhand discussing their plan of attack on Jackson and Nate to steal back the horses that they sold them. In an attempt to warn them she runs out to the barn and walks in on them. Jackson realizes that Sarah has discovered them and quickly takes action insisting she tell him what she saw. With that, her father and brother walk into the barn and see a naked Jackson hiding Sarah behind him. They of course jump to conclusions when they see not only a naked Jackson but a half naked Nate with his daughter and quickly marries her off to Jackson, a man that she doesn't even know.
The story revolves around the three of them while they adjust to their new lives. I loved the relationships between all of them. Jackson wants to do right by his new wife and leaves his past with Nate behind him as he tries to connect with his new wife. Sarah knows that Nate and Jackson love eachother and feels like she messed things up between them. Nate, poor Nate, is left on the outside looking in. He does get involved and whacks Jackson upside the head a few times when he upsets Sarah or doesn't do something right. Which I thought was sweet because he loved Jackson but he cared about Sarah too and wanted to make sure that Jackson was treating her right. The whole thing didn't seem fake or unbelievable. That is saying a lot since this was my first Ménage à trois book. I really enjoyed the story behind it and reading as the three of them settled into their new roles with the hand they had been dealt.
Favorite quote...
"Something inside him shattered when she rested her head on his shoulder and snuggled closer. Despite what she'd been through, what she still faced, she trusted him. A complete stranger. She was a gift, one unexpected, unlooked for. One he would treasure forever." - Jackson
For more reviews check out Book Sniffers Anonymous
The story revolves around the three of them while they adjust to their new lives. I loved the relationships between all of them. Jackson wants to do right by his new wife and leaves his past with Nate behind him as he tries to connect with his new wife. Sarah knows that Nate and Jackson love eachother and feels like she messed things up between them. Nate, poor Nate, is left on the outside looking in. He does get involved and whacks Jackson upside the head a few times when he upsets Sarah or doesn't do something right. Which I thought was sweet because he loved Jackson but he cared about Sarah too and wanted to make sure that Jackson was treating her right. The whole thing didn't seem fake or unbelievable. That is saying a lot since this was my first Ménage à trois book. I really enjoyed the story behind it and reading as the three of them settled into their new roles with the hand they had been dealt.
Favorite quote...
"Something inside him shattered when she rested her head on his shoulder and snuggled closer. Despite what she'd been through, what she still faced, she trusted him. A complete stranger. She was a gift, one unexpected, unlooked for. One he would treasure forever." - Jackson
For more reviews check out Book Sniffers Anonymous
May 28, 2011
I was interested in this story mainly due to it’s poly relationship premise. I enjoy historical romances, but I don’t always get into Westerns, this was a different kind of Western though. Although there were the fun cattle rustling, horse riding, dirty varment kind of stuff within the pages that you’d hope for within a Western Romance novel, Tangled Past also has an intricately woven romance story line that you normally don’t see. It is unique and very well thought out.
Yes, it is a romance. There are flowery prose and professings of love, but there are two male main characters and they are vying for the love of our female lead, Sarah. They are also vying for each other as well as Sarah.
Jackson is rough edged and abrupt, but he’s honest and loyal.
Nate is kind and sweet, but earnest and passionate.
I couldn’t help but fall in love with both of them right along with our tough Sarah.
Sarah’s life hasn’t been easy and even though her tale is very realistic for this time period and sometimes hard to read about, you come to find her strength and drive very enduring and attractive. Nothing ruins a romance more in my opinion than a “wilting flower” as Miss Martha calls them, the wise sage in Tangled Past.
Leah does a lovely job of creating three distinct characters that bring three distinct pieces together into a beautiful relationship. Their connection reminded me of a symbol I have tattooed on my back, the Trinity Heart Celtic Knot. Where one piece ends, another begins so there is truly no end. I would have loved to have been able to read more, especially later in the story.
I did find several type errors that brought me out of the story a few times, but that’s the beta in me. I’d love to give this story a once over before it’s published to make sure it is grammatically correct and reads smoothly. This story is quite enjoyable and deserves to sparkle.
I would recommend this to anyone who enjoys historical romances, especially of the Western variety. I’m sure it’s not easy setting this balance that you find in Tangled Past. Leah handles polygamy with care and it’s not only emotional but beautiful and erotic. I would definitely like to read something from Leah again.
Thank you again to Carina Press for allowing me to preread their ARCs. I very much appreciate being given these opportunities!
Yes, it is a romance. There are flowery prose and professings of love, but there are two male main characters and they are vying for the love of our female lead, Sarah. They are also vying for each other as well as Sarah.
Jackson is rough edged and abrupt, but he’s honest and loyal.
Nate is kind and sweet, but earnest and passionate.
I couldn’t help but fall in love with both of them right along with our tough Sarah.
Sarah’s life hasn’t been easy and even though her tale is very realistic for this time period and sometimes hard to read about, you come to find her strength and drive very enduring and attractive. Nothing ruins a romance more in my opinion than a “wilting flower” as Miss Martha calls them, the wise sage in Tangled Past.
Leah does a lovely job of creating three distinct characters that bring three distinct pieces together into a beautiful relationship. Their connection reminded me of a symbol I have tattooed on my back, the Trinity Heart Celtic Knot. Where one piece ends, another begins so there is truly no end. I would have loved to have been able to read more, especially later in the story.
I did find several type errors that brought me out of the story a few times, but that’s the beta in me. I’d love to give this story a once over before it’s published to make sure it is grammatically correct and reads smoothly. This story is quite enjoyable and deserves to sparkle.
I would recommend this to anyone who enjoys historical romances, especially of the Western variety. I’m sure it’s not easy setting this balance that you find in Tangled Past. Leah handles polygamy with care and it’s not only emotional but beautiful and erotic. I would definitely like to read something from Leah again.
Thank you again to Carina Press for allowing me to preread their ARCs. I very much appreciate being given these opportunities!
June 19, 2011
Tangled Past by Leah Braemel
* I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review*
Sarah has been treated like hired help rather than family since her mother passed away. She doesn’t owe the McLeod’s any loyalty but she is still stunned by his reaction when he comes to the barn that night. She never expected her life to change like it did that night she went to the barn to warn the strangers of her brothers plan.
Nate and Jackson are more than friends; they are lovers in a very dangerous world. If they get caught, there is the chance that they will hang from the nearest tree. When they set out to buy horses, they never expected to bring home a bride with them too.
Jackson loves Nate but he has taken vows and he intends to honor them and be a good husband for Sarah. Sarah is slowly falling in love with Jackson but she is afraid he will never be able to love her like he does Nate. He is a good husband and provider but it seems like he is holding a part of himself back.
After Nate’s accident, Sarah realizes how much both of these men mean to her. When Jackson purposes a way to include Nate, at first she’s hesitant but when she sees how much it means to him, she agrees. She can’t believe how wonderful it is between the three of them, she thinks she should feel guilty but she doesn’t. Nate comes up with the perfect solution to their living arrangement and they take him up on his offer.
The scenes between Nate and Jackson are tender and loving but filled with intensity. It’s obvious they care about each other but they can’t have an open relationship because it was unheard of during the 1800’s. Their love for Sarah is just as strong and the three of them find a way to make their relationship work.
The Wild West unfolds right before your eyes. While most of the story focuses on ranch life, you also get a glimpse into the dangers ranchers faced, such as rustlers.
The characters are compelling while their relationships are complex. Their story pulls you in right from the beginning. The cast of secondary characters is limited but each character is needed. I loved learning more about Jackson’s family and the twist was a nice surprise.
I really enjoyed learning the family history of the Dillon’s family from Texas Tangle. I loved Tangled Past and give it 4 Flaming Hearts.
* I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review*
Sarah has been treated like hired help rather than family since her mother passed away. She doesn’t owe the McLeod’s any loyalty but she is still stunned by his reaction when he comes to the barn that night. She never expected her life to change like it did that night she went to the barn to warn the strangers of her brothers plan.
Nate and Jackson are more than friends; they are lovers in a very dangerous world. If they get caught, there is the chance that they will hang from the nearest tree. When they set out to buy horses, they never expected to bring home a bride with them too.
Jackson loves Nate but he has taken vows and he intends to honor them and be a good husband for Sarah. Sarah is slowly falling in love with Jackson but she is afraid he will never be able to love her like he does Nate. He is a good husband and provider but it seems like he is holding a part of himself back.
After Nate’s accident, Sarah realizes how much both of these men mean to her. When Jackson purposes a way to include Nate, at first she’s hesitant but when she sees how much it means to him, she agrees. She can’t believe how wonderful it is between the three of them, she thinks she should feel guilty but she doesn’t. Nate comes up with the perfect solution to their living arrangement and they take him up on his offer.
The scenes between Nate and Jackson are tender and loving but filled with intensity. It’s obvious they care about each other but they can’t have an open relationship because it was unheard of during the 1800’s. Their love for Sarah is just as strong and the three of them find a way to make their relationship work.
The Wild West unfolds right before your eyes. While most of the story focuses on ranch life, you also get a glimpse into the dangers ranchers faced, such as rustlers.
The characters are compelling while their relationships are complex. Their story pulls you in right from the beginning. The cast of secondary characters is limited but each character is needed. I loved learning more about Jackson’s family and the twist was a nice surprise.
I really enjoyed learning the family history of the Dillon’s family from Texas Tangle. I loved Tangled Past and give it 4 Flaming Hearts.
June 17, 2011
While it's very, very difficult to buy into a permanent menage in the late 1800s (and even earlier!), I was able to get past my disbelief and really dig into this story.
While married to Sarah's father, her mother had a love affair with an Indian and got pregnant by him, and so her father has never treated Sarah well, especially since her mother's death. When she walks in on Jackson and Nate getting down and dirty in the barn, she's seen in a compromising position by her brother. Even though she did nothing wrong, she is forced to marry Jackson. Anxious to get away from her father and brother, Sarah agrees, even though she feels guilty about coming between Nate and Jackson.
Jackson and Nate are only GFY and both are very attracted to Sarah. To her physically and to her inner strength. On their wedding night, Sarah discovers passion and quickly comes to care about Jackson, and he returns the sentiment.
However, he feels guilty about still wanting Nate, too, and Nate also wants both Jackson and Sarah.
Unbelievable as the story sounds, I was able to move past the implausibility and enjoy the hell out of the book. It's a testament to Braemel's writing, because she explores the feelings of guilt, anxiety, and discomfort of being a bisexual man in the 1800s, as well as the uncertainty of being the woman caught between those two men. There's a lovely quality about her voice, and I like her stories - they somehow resonate with me. I wanted it to work out for the three of them and wondered how long Jackson and Nate could go on pining for one another. When this threesome does finally come together, it makes sense, and they are all open and honest with each other.
Part of the story revolves around the acceptance of their situation by the housekeeper and while I found her story touching and sad, it's a big piece of what seemed so unbelievable about the story. That said, I did like her a lot, and I also liked that Jackson and Nate worried about being caught and hanged. It gave the necessary touch of realism.
My advice on reading this is to set aside your disbelief and just soak up the love story and enjoy the characters, because it's beautifully written and Braemel's voice is terrific.
While married to Sarah's father, her mother had a love affair with an Indian and got pregnant by him, and so her father has never treated Sarah well, especially since her mother's death. When she walks in on Jackson and Nate getting down and dirty in the barn, she's seen in a compromising position by her brother. Even though she did nothing wrong, she is forced to marry Jackson. Anxious to get away from her father and brother, Sarah agrees, even though she feels guilty about coming between Nate and Jackson.
Jackson and Nate are only GFY and both are very attracted to Sarah. To her physically and to her inner strength. On their wedding night, Sarah discovers passion and quickly comes to care about Jackson, and he returns the sentiment.
However, he feels guilty about still wanting Nate, too, and Nate also wants both Jackson and Sarah.
Unbelievable as the story sounds, I was able to move past the implausibility and enjoy the hell out of the book. It's a testament to Braemel's writing, because she explores the feelings of guilt, anxiety, and discomfort of being a bisexual man in the 1800s, as well as the uncertainty of being the woman caught between those two men. There's a lovely quality about her voice, and I like her stories - they somehow resonate with me. I wanted it to work out for the three of them and wondered how long Jackson and Nate could go on pining for one another. When this threesome does finally come together, it makes sense, and they are all open and honest with each other.
Part of the story revolves around the acceptance of their situation by the housekeeper and while I found her story touching and sad, it's a big piece of what seemed so unbelievable about the story. That said, I did like her a lot, and I also liked that Jackson and Nate worried about being caught and hanged. It gave the necessary touch of realism.
My advice on reading this is to set aside your disbelief and just soak up the love story and enjoy the characters, because it's beautifully written and Braemel's voice is terrific.
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