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Chasing Trouble: Holidays Ever After Series Book 3
One fierce woman. One stubborn man. One Thanksgiving that neither will forget
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In the rural heart of the Ozark mountains, the fiercely determined Whitney Johnson will do whatever it takes to keep her little family safe and fed. With their father gone and winter closing in, she’s spent the summer poaching game from the lands of one MacClede “Mac” Wainwright, gardening, fishing, and storing or canning everything she can get her hands on.
Now Thanksgiving is looming, and when Whitney attempts to “borrow” a turkey from the rich surplus of the one man she’s been careful to avoid—the rugged cowboy who owns half the mountain—her luck finally runs out.
Mac Wainwright doesn’t take kindly to thieves… until he discovers the “boy” he caught stealing his prize gobbler is actually a stubborn, beautiful young woman doing her best to protect her brother and sister. When he realizes she plans to stay in their small cabin home until spring, Mac’s protective sense of duty and honor won’t let him leave them to face the brutal winter alone.
His solution is simple—place Whitney under his protection and then marry her. But Whitney isn’t sure she can trust her heart that quickly.
As winter settles over the Ozarks, her father’s return brings whispers of scandal from town—rumors tying her name to Mac’s. But it isn’t gossip that unsettles Whitney the most; it’s knowing Mac isn’t offering just a season; he wants forever—right now. Can she surrender her fierce independence long enough to find out if love is worth the risk? Or let him walk away?
.
In the rural heart of the Ozark mountains, the fiercely determined Whitney Johnson will do whatever it takes to keep her little family safe and fed. With their father gone and winter closing in, she’s spent the summer poaching game from the lands of one MacClede “Mac” Wainwright, gardening, fishing, and storing or canning everything she can get her hands on.
Now Thanksgiving is looming, and when Whitney attempts to “borrow” a turkey from the rich surplus of the one man she’s been careful to avoid—the rugged cowboy who owns half the mountain—her luck finally runs out.
Mac Wainwright doesn’t take kindly to thieves… until he discovers the “boy” he caught stealing his prize gobbler is actually a stubborn, beautiful young woman doing her best to protect her brother and sister. When he realizes she plans to stay in their small cabin home until spring, Mac’s protective sense of duty and honor won’t let him leave them to face the brutal winter alone.
His solution is simple—place Whitney under his protection and then marry her. But Whitney isn’t sure she can trust her heart that quickly.
As winter settles over the Ozarks, her father’s return brings whispers of scandal from town—rumors tying her name to Mac’s. But it isn’t gossip that unsettles Whitney the most; it’s knowing Mac isn’t offering just a season; he wants forever—right now. Can she surrender her fierce independence long enough to find out if love is worth the risk? Or let him walk away?
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106 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 1, 2025
About the author
Brandy Golden
53 books409 followersI live in the Midwest and I love cats, reading, scrapbooking, and swimming. I also love to write romance with humor, a little discipline, and other fun and interesting stuff! I love the alpha male hero, it's always present in my books, and strong feisty heroines who inevitably get themselves into hot water with their man. I am now retired and plan on getting many more wonderful stories out for you to read. I can be found in all sorts of places. Check out my link tree for my newsletter to get a free book, and follow me on Book-bub for updates on new releases as they come out. Much love and appreciation to my readers, Brandy Golden
https://linktr.ee/brandygolden
https://linktr.ee/brandygolden
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Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews
November 11, 2025
Brandy Golden's Chasing Trouble, is a charming installment in her Holidays Ever After series that delivers a cozy and genuinely touching holiday romance set against the stunning backdrop of the Ozark Mountains. This novel masterfully blends the rugged beauty of rural life with the warmth of unexpected love, resulting in a story that is perfect for curling up with as the weather turns cold.
The story centers on Whitney, a young woman thrust into the role of primary caregiver for her younger siblings after the heartbreaking death of their mother and the departure of their father to find work. Her resilience and fierce dedication to her family are immediately compelling. When Thanksgiving looms and their cupboards are bare, Whitney takes matters into her own hands, leading to a memorable, and hilarious, first encounter.
Her plan to secure a holiday dinner—by attempting to trap a turkey—goes hilariously awry when she is caught red-handed (or perhaps, turkey-handed) by Mac, the handsome and formidable owner of the ranch property. Mac isn't just a stern figure; he's a man with his own quiet burdens and a heart that slowly begins to soften under Whitney's tenacious spirit and the infectious energy of her siblings.
Whitney is an absolute powerhouse. Her struggles feel real, and her devotion to her family is the anchor of the story. Mac is the perfect counterpart—a strong, capable man whose initial gruffness gives way to a truly endearing tenderness. Their connection is built on respect, shared vulnerability, and genuine chemistry.
The Ozark Mountains aren't just a backdrop; they're a character themselves.
Brandy paints a vivid picture of the challenging yet beautiful landscape, enhancing the feeling of isolation and the eventual comfort of community.
The core theme of found family and siblings sticking together is incredibly heartwarming. The side characters, especially Whitney's siblings, are well-developed and add a wonderful layer of humor and emotional depth to the narrative.
The romance unfolds at a lovely, gentle pace, allowing the reader to truly feel the connection building between Mac and Whitney. It's a sweet romance with just the right amount of tension and holiday sparkle.
Chasing Trouble is more than just a holiday romance; it's a testament to the strength of family, the power of perseverance, and the unexpected places where love can bloom. Brandy Golden has crafted a delightful, feel-good story that will leave you feeling warm long after you turn the final page. It’s highly recommended for fans of small-town romance and stories that celebrate the true spirit of Thanksgiving.
The story centers on Whitney, a young woman thrust into the role of primary caregiver for her younger siblings after the heartbreaking death of their mother and the departure of their father to find work. Her resilience and fierce dedication to her family are immediately compelling. When Thanksgiving looms and their cupboards are bare, Whitney takes matters into her own hands, leading to a memorable, and hilarious, first encounter.
Her plan to secure a holiday dinner—by attempting to trap a turkey—goes hilariously awry when she is caught red-handed (or perhaps, turkey-handed) by Mac, the handsome and formidable owner of the ranch property. Mac isn't just a stern figure; he's a man with his own quiet burdens and a heart that slowly begins to soften under Whitney's tenacious spirit and the infectious energy of her siblings.
Whitney is an absolute powerhouse. Her struggles feel real, and her devotion to her family is the anchor of the story. Mac is the perfect counterpart—a strong, capable man whose initial gruffness gives way to a truly endearing tenderness. Their connection is built on respect, shared vulnerability, and genuine chemistry.
The Ozark Mountains aren't just a backdrop; they're a character themselves.
Brandy paints a vivid picture of the challenging yet beautiful landscape, enhancing the feeling of isolation and the eventual comfort of community.
The core theme of found family and siblings sticking together is incredibly heartwarming. The side characters, especially Whitney's siblings, are well-developed and add a wonderful layer of humor and emotional depth to the narrative.
The romance unfolds at a lovely, gentle pace, allowing the reader to truly feel the connection building between Mac and Whitney. It's a sweet romance with just the right amount of tension and holiday sparkle.
Chasing Trouble is more than just a holiday romance; it's a testament to the strength of family, the power of perseverance, and the unexpected places where love can bloom. Brandy Golden has crafted a delightful, feel-good story that will leave you feeling warm long after you turn the final page. It’s highly recommended for fans of small-town romance and stories that celebrate the true spirit of Thanksgiving.
October 30, 2025
YOU WERE DIFFICULT TO CATCH
Widower Daniel Johnson has left his children, Whitney, Luke, and Amelia, at their small homestead while he heads out in search of work. He has been away for months, and while the older children have taken care of the few animals and the garden, winter is fast approaching, and their father hasn’t returned. Whitney can’t go into town inquiring about him, because she isn’t eighteen yet—she fears the sheriff would take her siblings away.
The story takes place in the Ozarks and starts the day before Thanksgiving. Seventeen-year-old Whitney Johnson doesn’t want to disappoint her twelve-year-old brother, Luke, and three-year-old sister, Amelia. She has been poaching on land owned by the Wainwright family. They also have farm-raised turkeys, and all she needs is one for them to have a turkey dinner on Thanksgiving. What she wasn’t expecting was to be caught in the act by Maclead ‘Mac’ Wainwright and tracked to their homeplace.
Mac is furious with her for stealing one of their turkeys, but tells her he will be back the next day to have dinner with them. He also plans to punish Whitney for stealing from him. He needs to see what the situation at their home is like, because their clothing isn’t suitable for winter, which is fast approaching. Learning that her father has been gone for months, Whitney shows him around their home to see what they have stored for winter. He is impressed with the food she’s canned, wood she has cut, but dangers are lurking, both two-legged and four-legged, and it isn’t safe for them.
The story is another fun addition to the Holiday Ever After series. There is a strong, instant-love chemistry between Mac and Whitney, along with plenty of angst. As Mac learns more of the family’s situation, he feels he needs to convince Whitney to marry him and allow them all to move to his ranch during the winter. When trouble comes from two strangers, he knows it is imperative to protect them from danger—even as Whitney fights for her independence. The story does have power exchange—with dubious consent. There are no sex scenes.
Widower Daniel Johnson has left his children, Whitney, Luke, and Amelia, at their small homestead while he heads out in search of work. He has been away for months, and while the older children have taken care of the few animals and the garden, winter is fast approaching, and their father hasn’t returned. Whitney can’t go into town inquiring about him, because she isn’t eighteen yet—she fears the sheriff would take her siblings away.
The story takes place in the Ozarks and starts the day before Thanksgiving. Seventeen-year-old Whitney Johnson doesn’t want to disappoint her twelve-year-old brother, Luke, and three-year-old sister, Amelia. She has been poaching on land owned by the Wainwright family. They also have farm-raised turkeys, and all she needs is one for them to have a turkey dinner on Thanksgiving. What she wasn’t expecting was to be caught in the act by Maclead ‘Mac’ Wainwright and tracked to their homeplace.
Mac is furious with her for stealing one of their turkeys, but tells her he will be back the next day to have dinner with them. He also plans to punish Whitney for stealing from him. He needs to see what the situation at their home is like, because their clothing isn’t suitable for winter, which is fast approaching. Learning that her father has been gone for months, Whitney shows him around their home to see what they have stored for winter. He is impressed with the food she’s canned, wood she has cut, but dangers are lurking, both two-legged and four-legged, and it isn’t safe for them.
The story is another fun addition to the Holiday Ever After series. There is a strong, instant-love chemistry between Mac and Whitney, along with plenty of angst. As Mac learns more of the family’s situation, he feels he needs to convince Whitney to marry him and allow them all to move to his ranch during the winter. When trouble comes from two strangers, he knows it is imperative to protect them from danger—even as Whitney fights for her independence. The story does have power exchange—with dubious consent. There are no sex scenes.
November 1, 2025
Chaos, mayhem, angst, danger, and laughter, what more could you ask for? This gem of a book truly packed a punch. The chemistry between Mac and Whitney was strong and believable, especially as Whitney began to experience her first stirrings of attraction.
Set in the rugged Ozark Mountains, the story follows seventeen-year-old Whitney, who has been left by her less-than-stellar father, Daniel (definitely not a winner of any Father of the Year awards!), to care for her two younger siblings. With Thanksgiving approaching and winter closing in, Whitney does whatever she can to provide for them, including poaching on her neighbor’s land. Unfortunately, her luck runs out when she’s caught red-handed with a turkey in her arms by Mac, who is far from amused. Though furious, he lets her go with a warning and a promise that there will be a reckoning.
Whitney impressed me; she’s resourceful, resilient, loyal, and fiercely protective of her siblings. Yet she’s also vulnerable and stubborn, which often leads her into . Mac, on the other hand, is a no-nonsense, honorable, and dominant man determined to help Whitney see reason, even if it means dishing out a few painful lessons. His intentions are good,not just for Whitney, but also for Luke and Amelia, and his solution to their problems is both practical and sensible: marriage.
To say Whitney is less than thrilled would be an understatement! Sparks and fireworks fly between this stubborn couple, and though their engagement might be the shortest in history, you can’t help but admire their strength and courage.
The story includes some spanking scenes but no explicit sexual content. Overall, it’s an engaging, emotional, and at times humorous read that blends heart, hardship, and heat in just the right measure.
Set in the rugged Ozark Mountains, the story follows seventeen-year-old Whitney, who has been left by her less-than-stellar father, Daniel (definitely not a winner of any Father of the Year awards!), to care for her two younger siblings. With Thanksgiving approaching and winter closing in, Whitney does whatever she can to provide for them, including poaching on her neighbor’s land. Unfortunately, her luck runs out when she’s caught red-handed with a turkey in her arms by Mac, who is far from amused. Though furious, he lets her go with a warning and a promise that there will be a reckoning.
Whitney impressed me; she’s resourceful, resilient, loyal, and fiercely protective of her siblings. Yet she’s also vulnerable and stubborn, which often leads her into . Mac, on the other hand, is a no-nonsense, honorable, and dominant man determined to help Whitney see reason, even if it means dishing out a few painful lessons. His intentions are good,not just for Whitney, but also for Luke and Amelia, and his solution to their problems is both practical and sensible: marriage.
To say Whitney is less than thrilled would be an understatement! Sparks and fireworks fly between this stubborn couple, and though their engagement might be the shortest in history, you can’t help but admire their strength and courage.
The story includes some spanking scenes but no explicit sexual content. Overall, it’s an engaging, emotional, and at times humorous read that blends heart, hardship, and heat in just the right measure.
November 21, 2025
Chasing Trouble by Brandy Golden is my first experience reading this author, and I truly enjoyed the story. As part of the Holidays Ever After series, it brings a heartfelt and emotional tale set in the Ozarks. Whitney, a 17-year-old young woman, is doing everything she can to care for her younger siblings while their father is away looking for work. Desperate to feed her family, she begins poaching from a neighboring property, and it is while trying to secure a turkey for Thanksgiving that she meets the landowner, Mac. From this moment, their journey toward a happily ever after begins.
While I enjoyed the premise and characters, some elements felt unexpectedly outdated for a modern setting romance. Themes such as physical punishment, a strong focus on obedience, and limited autonomy for the female lead felt more fitting for an earlier historical period. Some readers may appreciate the traditional tone, but at times it was uncomfortable and pulled me out of the contemporary setting.
That said, I loved Whitney’s strength and determination. Her commitment to protecting and providing for her younger siblings — even planning carefully to avoid the sheriff’s notice — showed remarkable courage and resourcefulness. The emotional core of the story, the family loyalty, and the hope for a better life were all very touching, and I enjoyed watching Whitney and Mac’s relationship grow. I would read more from Ms. Golden and am curious to explore more of her work in the future.
I received a complimentary copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
While I enjoyed the premise and characters, some elements felt unexpectedly outdated for a modern setting romance. Themes such as physical punishment, a strong focus on obedience, and limited autonomy for the female lead felt more fitting for an earlier historical period. Some readers may appreciate the traditional tone, but at times it was uncomfortable and pulled me out of the contemporary setting.
That said, I loved Whitney’s strength and determination. Her commitment to protecting and providing for her younger siblings — even planning carefully to avoid the sheriff’s notice — showed remarkable courage and resourcefulness. The emotional core of the story, the family loyalty, and the hope for a better life were all very touching, and I enjoyed watching Whitney and Mac’s relationship grow. I would read more from Ms. Golden and am curious to explore more of her work in the future.
I received a complimentary copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 5, 2025
I voluntarily reviewed a copy of "CHASING TROUBLE" this an interesting, slightly emotional, angsty journey, with some danger, in the Ozark mountains, keeps you reading.
Mac Wainwright doesn't like theives Whitney only 17yrs old left by her widowed father Daniel looking for work, leaving her to look after her 12yr. old brother Luke & 3gr. old sister Amelia.
Whitney during the summer was very resourseful preparing for the winter, gardening, fishing, canning to get them through the Winter .
Thanksgiving she wanted a Turkey for their dinner & steals a Turkeynfrom Mac Wainwright who she's tried to avoid.
Mac catches Whitney stealing trying to protect Luke & Amelia, when he finds out she plans to stay in the small cabin til Spring his protective, honorable sense of duty kicks in.
Mac wants to offer her his protection & then marry her but she's not sure she can trust the situation.
Whitney's father hasn't returned the town is gossiping that doesn't bother her its that Mac isn't just offering for the winter he wants more, will she try to see if love develops between them or let Mac go a must read to see what happens.
Mac Wainwright doesn't like theives Whitney only 17yrs old left by her widowed father Daniel looking for work, leaving her to look after her 12yr. old brother Luke & 3gr. old sister Amelia.
Whitney during the summer was very resourseful preparing for the winter, gardening, fishing, canning to get them through the Winter .
Thanksgiving she wanted a Turkey for their dinner & steals a Turkeynfrom Mac Wainwright who she's tried to avoid.
Mac catches Whitney stealing trying to protect Luke & Amelia, when he finds out she plans to stay in the small cabin til Spring his protective, honorable sense of duty kicks in.
Mac wants to offer her his protection & then marry her but she's not sure she can trust the situation.
Whitney's father hasn't returned the town is gossiping that doesn't bother her its that Mac isn't just offering for the winter he wants more, will she try to see if love develops between them or let Mac go a must read to see what happens.
November 8, 2025
Another awesome read that sadly is a short story in my opinion I love this series so far and the author writing style I just wish there were more chapters. I really enjoy these stories this book had me hooked right away especially with the little ones characters they are adorable and very funny. I love the independent female character she is full of sassy and determination to do whatever it takes to help her siblings. You can feel the heavy energy rolling of her and Mac there is definitely instant attention between them among other things. This story gives off vibes like enemies to lovers, old fashioned living rules I’m so happy with the outcome of this book! I was a little nervous throughout the process cause there are some dangers stuff that occur in the book plus lots of uncertainty but no worries this ending is a very interesting happy excited one!
Reasons I enjoyed this book:
OriginalFunnyUnpredictable Wonderful charactersHappily Ever AfterEasy-to-readAction-packedHauntingPage-turnerRomanticEntertaining
Reasons I enjoyed this book:
OriginalFunnyUnpredictable Wonderful charactersHappily Ever AfterEasy-to-readAction-packedHauntingPage-turnerRomanticEntertaining
November 4, 2025
This is a sweet story that is set in the Ozarks. I did get confused about whether this was a historical or contemporary romance. I was set straight when the conversation turned to cell phones, lol. Anyways, Whitney is trying to keep her younger siblings fed and safe while her father is gone. She has done some poaching on Mac's property, and he finally caught her when she killed a turkey for Thanksgiving. I was impressed by Whitney. She is resourceful and hard-working. I wasn't as impressed as Mac because his attitude is definitely from a past time. His solution to the situation they are in is to marry her, which Whitney is not thrilled with. But she comes around, and the two have their HEA.
November 10, 2025
Mac and Whitney's story is a delightful read. It's very well written. All the characters are well developed. I enjoy Brandy's writing style. She keeps things lighthearted and fun with a little danger involved, the story line is priceless. Whitney is a sassy independent FMC. Which earns her a few well deserved spankings. LoL. Yes please. Mac is a total Alpha Male MMC and has no problem being the boss and taking care of matters that need handling.
This is a truly heartwarming HEA Romance. I highly recommend this book and this series.
Brandy is an amazing, fun author. I enjoy reading her books very much
This is a truly heartwarming HEA Romance. I highly recommend this book and this series.
Brandy is an amazing, fun author. I enjoy reading her books very much
October 29, 2025
This is a short insta-love romance involving a young couple. One is a rancher and then other is a sister raising two younger siblings who also happens to be a poacher. When Whitney gets caught poaching one of Mac’s turkeys, the feathers fly (so to speak). What starts off with a trip over Mac’s knee soon changes to a whirlwind trip to the alter. There were a few questions that I had, that really did not get answered to my satisfaction, but that is hard due to the quick read. All in all it was and enjoyable quick sweeter more than steamier read.
November 7, 2025
This is a really interesting read of insta love the Ozark way. Mac catches Whitney poaching to provide for her 2 younger siblings for Thanksgiving.
Sparks and 'panks' ; as her younger 3 year old sister calls them, fly as Mac growls and follows the industrious and resoureful Whitney around.
Whitney and family are waiting for their father to return and Whitney is doing a great job holding down the fort till then.
This is an old fashioned, enemies to lovers book that is engaging for a good short read.
Sparks and 'panks' ; as her younger 3 year old sister calls them, fly as Mac growls and follows the industrious and resoureful Whitney around.
Whitney and family are waiting for their father to return and Whitney is doing a great job holding down the fort till then.
This is an old fashioned, enemies to lovers book that is engaging for a good short read.
October 27, 2025
Whitney and Mac story was an interesting experience with a sweet happy ending.
Their first meeting was intense and igniting, as there were lots of things in the balance.
Their connection was explosive and edgy, and circumstances kept them together.
They had their divergences and stubbornness generated by strong personalities, but their feelings kept growing, and in the end, they found their common ground.
*this is an ARC review and is my honest opinion
Their first meeting was intense and igniting, as there were lots of things in the balance.
Their connection was explosive and edgy, and circumstances kept them together.
They had their divergences and stubbornness generated by strong personalities, but their feelings kept growing, and in the end, they found their common ground.
*this is an ARC review and is my honest opinion
November 2, 2025
I loved this sweet and well written story. All the characters are real and rounded. Whitney is brave and would do whatever it takes to protect her family. Mac has been working endlessly and needs to have a life outside the ranch. I enjoyed all their interactions and the well deserved spankings that Whitney receives for her careless behaviour. I received an advanced reader copy of this book and am leaving an honest review. This is a sweet story that anyone from 18 to 90 will love.
November 24, 2025
Whitney lives in the hills of the Ozark Mountains and gets caught poaching on Mac’s land but since she is dressed like a boy Mac has no idea she is actually a young woman. When he realizes she is a young beautiful woman and she is only trying to feed her younger brother and sister until her father returns from working out of town. This is entertaining and funny romance.
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.
October 26, 2025
A sweet story set in the Ozarks and occasionally I forgot and thought it was an historic story until they talked of trucks and phones. Mac was a real gentleman but met his match with Whitney. She was so resourceful and hard working with no support. Surely her father could have gotten a message to her! An afternoon read with a delightful child and happy ending.
November 16, 2025
Brandy Golden brings a lighthearted story from the Ozarks.
Whitney has taken care of Luke and Amelia since their father left to find work. That was months ago, and winter will soon have them trapped and fighting to survive. Already she's been forced to poach and steal from the ranch lands adjoining theirs, and tomorrow is Thanksgiving. The rancher will never miss one turkey, right?
Whitney has taken care of Luke and Amelia since their father left to find work. That was months ago, and winter will soon have them trapped and fighting to survive. Already she's been forced to poach and steal from the ranch lands adjoining theirs, and tomorrow is Thanksgiving. The rancher will never miss one turkey, right?
November 23, 2025
A Troubling Predicament Whitney is left in charge of her young siblings. Their health and safety are her responsibility and her need to care for them gets her in no small amount of trouble. Mac is drawn to her like a moth to the flame. He is dominant, and a caregiver. These two traits combined with their attraction make a lovely story.
November 24, 2025
Chasing Trouble is a warm, slow-burn Ozarks romance that mixes grit, heart, and sizzling tension between two stubborn souls who need each other more than they realize. Brandy Golden delivers a tender, frontier-flavored love story filled with protective heroes, fierce heroines, and the cozy drama of a hard winter closing in.
November 1, 2025
I enjoyed myself while reading this story. It was sweet and steamy as well as endearing. Mac and Whitney may have gotten off on the wrong foot, but in the end they both got what they needed and wanted. I am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 4, 2025
Really enjoyed this Thanksgiving story . Whitney poached a turkey for Thanksgiving for her siblings and ended up with a husband. Would highly recommend.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews