What do you think?
Rate this book
Wrangler's Creek #3
Branded as Trouble
Every town needs a bad boy, and Wrangler's Creek's has been gone far too long
Getting his high school girlfriend pregnant was just one square in Roman Granger's checkered past, but it changed him forever. When his son's mother skipped town after the birth, Roman decided to do the same, baby Tate in tow, hoping for a fresh start.
Now Roman fears his teenage son is following in his wayward footsteps, so he returns home to Wrangler's Creek, aiming to set him straight. It's there he encounters Tate's aunt, Mila Banchini, the good-girl opposite of Roman who's had a crush on him since childhood. The old spark between them undeniably never died, though Roman worries it'll only lead to heartache. But if falling for Mila is such a bad idea, why does everything about holding her feel so right?
Getting his high school girlfriend pregnant was just one square in Roman Granger's checkered past, but it changed him forever. When his son's mother skipped town after the birth, Roman decided to do the same, baby Tate in tow, hoping for a fresh start.
Now Roman fears his teenage son is following in his wayward footsteps, so he returns home to Wrangler's Creek, aiming to set him straight. It's there he encounters Tate's aunt, Mila Banchini, the good-girl opposite of Roman who's had a crush on him since childhood. The old spark between them undeniably never died, though Roman worries it'll only lead to heartache. But if falling for Mila is such a bad idea, why does everything about holding her feel so right?
384 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published June 27, 2017
136 people are currently reading
565 people want to read
About the author
Delores Fossen
637 books815 followersThank you for finding me on Goodreads!
Want to know more about me? Well, here it is in a nutshell:
I’m a USA Today bestselling author, and I’ve sold over 100 novels. Yes, 100! Needless to say, I write a lot. I’ve had the honor of receiving the Booksellers' Best Award for romantic suspense, the Romantic Times Reviewers' Choice Award, and I was a finalist for the Rita. My books have been featured in Vogue, Woman’s Day and Woman’s World. I’ve also had nearly a hundred short stories and articles published in national magazines. I love hearing from readers, and you can contact me through my webpage at: www.deloresfossen.com.
Want to know more about me? Well, here it is in a nutshell:
I’m a USA Today bestselling author, and I’ve sold over 100 novels. Yes, 100! Needless to say, I write a lot. I’ve had the honor of receiving the Booksellers' Best Award for romantic suspense, the Romantic Times Reviewers' Choice Award, and I was a finalist for the Rita. My books have been featured in Vogue, Woman’s Day and Woman’s World. I’ve also had nearly a hundred short stories and articles published in national magazines. I love hearing from readers, and you can contact me through my webpage at: www.deloresfossen.com.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews
May 14, 2020
Branded as Trouble is book three in the Wrangler’s Creek series by Delores Fossen and narrated by Adam James Conner.
We’re treated to a lot of drama, past issues, bad memories, and maybe hope that the past can be put to rest, but for that to happen Roman must go home.
This novel tackles some tough subjects, but the author approaches them with optimism and humor showing that even when you have an issue you can face it and overcome it.
Roman Granger was a badass and a screw-up in his teens. At 18, he got his girlfriend pregnant and as soon as the baby was born, she skipped out of town, leaving Roman to raise his son alone. He’s a single dad, a rodeo promoter, and doesn’t have time for a relationship. He keeps all women at a distance; because his life is dedicated to his son Tate. As for Tate; he might seem like a typical teen, but his behavior and slipping grades are a sign of something more.
Mila Banchini has been the good girl and at 30 she’s still a virgin. It seems that every male in Wrangler’s Creek is on a quest to take her virginity. She’s been in love with Roman since childhood, but Roman has only ever seen her as Tate’s cousin. Will he see her as something more than a cousin?
I’ve been enjoying the Wrangler’s Creek series. What I like about it is the small town and family dynamics. Fossen portrays these dynamics perfectly. I like the family struggles. They come across as real. Roman’s issues with his son, Tate, are a little like the same issues he has with his mom. I think Roman learned a new appreciation for his mom once he came to terms with his childhood and the issues he had with his mom. I liked Mila. She’s tough, handles herself well, and doesn’t lose control when the secret her mom has been keeping form her comes out.
Mila and Roman needed each other. Roman needed someone to help him face his struggles and help him find a way to live with them. Their romance is sweet and pleasurable.
Narration: Adam James Conner did a great job. I enjoyed all the voices and how the struggles came to life. We feel like we are in the characters shoes dealing with whatever issue they are dealing with. I had a great time with this audiobook.
Branded as Trouble was a delightful listen and a lot of fun.
Rated: 4 Stars
We’re treated to a lot of drama, past issues, bad memories, and maybe hope that the past can be put to rest, but for that to happen Roman must go home.
This novel tackles some tough subjects, but the author approaches them with optimism and humor showing that even when you have an issue you can face it and overcome it.
Roman Granger was a badass and a screw-up in his teens. At 18, he got his girlfriend pregnant and as soon as the baby was born, she skipped out of town, leaving Roman to raise his son alone. He’s a single dad, a rodeo promoter, and doesn’t have time for a relationship. He keeps all women at a distance; because his life is dedicated to his son Tate. As for Tate; he might seem like a typical teen, but his behavior and slipping grades are a sign of something more.
Mila Banchini has been the good girl and at 30 she’s still a virgin. It seems that every male in Wrangler’s Creek is on a quest to take her virginity. She’s been in love with Roman since childhood, but Roman has only ever seen her as Tate’s cousin. Will he see her as something more than a cousin?
I’ve been enjoying the Wrangler’s Creek series. What I like about it is the small town and family dynamics. Fossen portrays these dynamics perfectly. I like the family struggles. They come across as real. Roman’s issues with his son, Tate, are a little like the same issues he has with his mom. I think Roman learned a new appreciation for his mom once he came to terms with his childhood and the issues he had with his mom. I liked Mila. She’s tough, handles herself well, and doesn’t lose control when the secret her mom has been keeping form her comes out.
Mila and Roman needed each other. Roman needed someone to help him face his struggles and help him find a way to live with them. Their romance is sweet and pleasurable.
Narration: Adam James Conner did a great job. I enjoyed all the voices and how the struggles came to life. We feel like we are in the characters shoes dealing with whatever issue they are dealing with. I had a great time with this audiobook.
Branded as Trouble was a delightful listen and a lot of fun.
Rated: 4 Stars
July 10, 2017
Favorite Quotes:
… her eyes narrowed, and she jerked on her clothes as if she’d declared war on them.
Ian Busby. He was in his early twenties, as skinny as a zipper, and his pinched, flushed face reminded her of a rooster. He also had horny written all over him. Literally. Well, it was printed on his T-shirt, anyway. Me So Horny was emblazoned above a picture of a rhino… The Busby brothers’ claims to fame were cow-tipping, peeing on electric fences and wearing T-shirts with horny written on them.
When it came to her mother, most people wanted to be anywhere else. Vita was the ultimate person repellant… Vita wasn’t your ordinary mother. Nope. She had her freaky flag flying with her Bohemian clothes — a long brown shirt, peasant blouse and dozens of cheap bead necklaces and bracelets. When she walked, she sounded like a chained Jacob Marley from A Christmas Carol.
It’s a rubber, and it’ll stop you from getting knocked up. You put it on the man’s secret place when he’s decided not to keep it secret from you any longer.”
The moment he stepped into the house at the ranch, he felt as if he’d gotten sucked into a circle of hell that Dante had forgotten to mention.
My Review:
Delores Fossen tells clever and funny stories about cowboys, and she throws in some family drama, sexy love scenes, and a few intriguing mysteries to solve along the way. Her writing has never failed to leave me with a smirk and a book hangover as they are so sharply amusing and entertaining, I find them hard to put down. Her characters are quirky, flawed, and simultaneously obnoxious and endearing. I adore her colorful descriptions, highly amusing visuals, and ironic humor and doubt I could ever tire of her crafty tales.
… her eyes narrowed, and she jerked on her clothes as if she’d declared war on them.
Ian Busby. He was in his early twenties, as skinny as a zipper, and his pinched, flushed face reminded her of a rooster. He also had horny written all over him. Literally. Well, it was printed on his T-shirt, anyway. Me So Horny was emblazoned above a picture of a rhino… The Busby brothers’ claims to fame were cow-tipping, peeing on electric fences and wearing T-shirts with horny written on them.
When it came to her mother, most people wanted to be anywhere else. Vita was the ultimate person repellant… Vita wasn’t your ordinary mother. Nope. She had her freaky flag flying with her Bohemian clothes — a long brown shirt, peasant blouse and dozens of cheap bead necklaces and bracelets. When she walked, she sounded like a chained Jacob Marley from A Christmas Carol.
It’s a rubber, and it’ll stop you from getting knocked up. You put it on the man’s secret place when he’s decided not to keep it secret from you any longer.”
The moment he stepped into the house at the ranch, he felt as if he’d gotten sucked into a circle of hell that Dante had forgotten to mention.
My Review:
Delores Fossen tells clever and funny stories about cowboys, and she throws in some family drama, sexy love scenes, and a few intriguing mysteries to solve along the way. Her writing has never failed to leave me with a smirk and a book hangover as they are so sharply amusing and entertaining, I find them hard to put down. Her characters are quirky, flawed, and simultaneously obnoxious and endearing. I adore her colorful descriptions, highly amusing visuals, and ironic humor and doubt I could ever tire of her crafty tales.
April 15, 2017
When Delores Fossen has a new book out, I jump on it. She is definitely my all- time favorite contemporary romance author. Her stories never fail to delight. She somehow manages to perfectly blend humorous moments, teary moments, and real life struggles into a wonderful, believable romance. While this story tackles some tough subjects, she approaches them with optimism and humor showing how even what may seem a daunting problem can be faced and overcome.
Roman Granger was always known as a badass. A screw-up, in and out of trouble throughout his teens. At 18, he’d gotten his girlfriend Valerie pregnant. She’d skipped out shortly after their son Tate’s birth leaving Roman to raise him alone. Now there was no trace of the love he’d once had for Valerie. Just a lot of resentment for her lack of involvement in Tate’s life. Between his job as a rodeo promoter and being a single dad to a 13 year old son, Roman didn’t have time for relationships. Nothing more than casual sex. Anything more than 3 times wasn’t casual so that’s where Roman always ended things. He only had room in his life for Tate right now anyway. Tate might seem like a typical teen, hating everything, but his sullen behavior, slipping grades, and fighting were escalating. A sure sign of something more than typical. Roman was gone on business a lot and had a live-in housekeeper, but a housekeeper couldn’t fix the problems he and Tate were having. Roman was tired of sweeping all that teenage angst under the rug. It was time to do something. Roman legally owned Granger Ranch but didn’t live there. He wanted nothing to do with it. There’d been a lot of bad blood between he and his mom, Belle, for a long time. Home was filled with bad memories. But now it looked like that might be the best place for he and Tate. At least temporarily.
Where Roman had been the bad boy, Mila Banchini had been the good girl opposite. Nothing like her cousin, Roman’s ex, Mila, at 30, had remained a virgin. Apparently everyone in town knew it too. It seemed like every eligible male in Wrangler’s Creek was on a quest to take her virginity. And everyone in town seemed to know about her crush on Roman too. She’d been in love with him since childhood. Unfortunately, Roman only saw her as Tate’s cousin. Mila wanted someone in her life. She always had. She’d just wanted the wrong person. And now that he was back in Wrangler’s Creek, she’d been thinking way too much about Roman and sex.
Roman knew Mila had a crush on him but he didn’t do virgins. By the way she looked at him, Roman could tell Mila wanted something he couldn’t give her. Even if his body disagreed every time he was near her. With each encounter, he found himself thinking about things he shouldn’t think about. He knew he didn’t want heartbreak and commitment. Mila deserved better. But then she kissed him. Mila was tired of being the good girl. She wanted a taste of what everyone else was having. And from the way Roman responded to her kiss, “he might be ready for a romp if she was so inclined, and she was inclined”. She knew about Roman’s ‘3 time’ rule, but she’d rather have temporary with him than permanent with someone she just settled for. So Mila laid it on the line. “I want to have sex with you. Once is fine but 3 times works too.” Roman knew he needed to hold on to his willpower and remember that the stakes were high here. He needed to leave Mila alone. This wasn’t going to turn into a relationship. He didn’t do those. Especially the kind he was sure Mila wanted. “She wanted normal and she wanted it here in Wrangler’s Creek.” Roman couldn’t give her either of those. So why did he find himself considering it?
One of the things I love about the Wrangler’s Creek series is the small town dynamic. Where people are like family. And, like our own families, they can drive you crazy but they’re also who you rely on for support when you need it. Still, there’s nothing like family to bring out your childish side. Delores Fossen portrays that family dynamic so perfectly. I was intrigued by the family struggles as much as I was by the romance.
Roman knew his family loved him. They anchored him, but his issues with his mom kept him from seeing that. Deep down, he was still the little boy who felt betrayed by his parents. Much like Tate felt. It was hysterical to watch Roman and Belle try to have a conversation using safe words to let the other know when they had hit a hot button topic. Through his own dealings with his son, I think Roman learned a new appreciation for and acceptance of his mother. I have to admit, when Roman stood up to Tate’s principal, remembering the times his own father never stood up for him, I teared up. There were so many relationship similarities in this story. Roman’s issues with Tate were very much like his own issues with his mom. It truly showed how childhood struggles can carry over into adulthood.
Mila’s mother was far from a conventional mom. More like a crazy, gypsy. With her strange predictions and even stranger “gifts”, she was a walking people repellant. Mila loved her mom though, and when she discovered the secret her mom had been hiding from her, she was hurt. But Mila handled it in pure Mila fashion. That’s one of the things I love about her character. She’s a tough girl. She handles herself well and doesn’t lose control, but sets out a plan of action. That’s what Roman needed and one reason they were such a good match. Roman needed someone to help him face his struggles and work to resolve them, or at least find a way to live with them and not let them keep him from finding happiness. The way Roman and Mila were there for each other when they needed a friend melted my heart.
While there were family issues and angst, Delores Fossen tells the story in her usual witty way, managing to bring humor and hope to real life struggles. She has some of the best lines of any author I’ve ever read. She needs to publish a collection of her best zingers. Days later, I’m still snorting about the pop rocks in the panties comment. While #3 in the series, Branded As Trouble can be read as a stand-alone, but I highly recommend starting at the beginning so you don’t miss out on all the fun. This series is humorous, witty, and sometimes delightfully silly but still resonates with emotion and real character development. It’s the kind of romance that will make you laugh, sigh, and wish you could move to Wrangler’s Creek. A Book Obsessed Chicks Review Team Selection
Roman Granger was always known as a badass. A screw-up, in and out of trouble throughout his teens. At 18, he’d gotten his girlfriend Valerie pregnant. She’d skipped out shortly after their son Tate’s birth leaving Roman to raise him alone. Now there was no trace of the love he’d once had for Valerie. Just a lot of resentment for her lack of involvement in Tate’s life. Between his job as a rodeo promoter and being a single dad to a 13 year old son, Roman didn’t have time for relationships. Nothing more than casual sex. Anything more than 3 times wasn’t casual so that’s where Roman always ended things. He only had room in his life for Tate right now anyway. Tate might seem like a typical teen, hating everything, but his sullen behavior, slipping grades, and fighting were escalating. A sure sign of something more than typical. Roman was gone on business a lot and had a live-in housekeeper, but a housekeeper couldn’t fix the problems he and Tate were having. Roman was tired of sweeping all that teenage angst under the rug. It was time to do something. Roman legally owned Granger Ranch but didn’t live there. He wanted nothing to do with it. There’d been a lot of bad blood between he and his mom, Belle, for a long time. Home was filled with bad memories. But now it looked like that might be the best place for he and Tate. At least temporarily.
Where Roman had been the bad boy, Mila Banchini had been the good girl opposite. Nothing like her cousin, Roman’s ex, Mila, at 30, had remained a virgin. Apparently everyone in town knew it too. It seemed like every eligible male in Wrangler’s Creek was on a quest to take her virginity. And everyone in town seemed to know about her crush on Roman too. She’d been in love with him since childhood. Unfortunately, Roman only saw her as Tate’s cousin. Mila wanted someone in her life. She always had. She’d just wanted the wrong person. And now that he was back in Wrangler’s Creek, she’d been thinking way too much about Roman and sex.
Roman knew Mila had a crush on him but he didn’t do virgins. By the way she looked at him, Roman could tell Mila wanted something he couldn’t give her. Even if his body disagreed every time he was near her. With each encounter, he found himself thinking about things he shouldn’t think about. He knew he didn’t want heartbreak and commitment. Mila deserved better. But then she kissed him. Mila was tired of being the good girl. She wanted a taste of what everyone else was having. And from the way Roman responded to her kiss, “he might be ready for a romp if she was so inclined, and she was inclined”. She knew about Roman’s ‘3 time’ rule, but she’d rather have temporary with him than permanent with someone she just settled for. So Mila laid it on the line. “I want to have sex with you. Once is fine but 3 times works too.” Roman knew he needed to hold on to his willpower and remember that the stakes were high here. He needed to leave Mila alone. This wasn’t going to turn into a relationship. He didn’t do those. Especially the kind he was sure Mila wanted. “She wanted normal and she wanted it here in Wrangler’s Creek.” Roman couldn’t give her either of those. So why did he find himself considering it?
One of the things I love about the Wrangler’s Creek series is the small town dynamic. Where people are like family. And, like our own families, they can drive you crazy but they’re also who you rely on for support when you need it. Still, there’s nothing like family to bring out your childish side. Delores Fossen portrays that family dynamic so perfectly. I was intrigued by the family struggles as much as I was by the romance.
Roman knew his family loved him. They anchored him, but his issues with his mom kept him from seeing that. Deep down, he was still the little boy who felt betrayed by his parents. Much like Tate felt. It was hysterical to watch Roman and Belle try to have a conversation using safe words to let the other know when they had hit a hot button topic. Through his own dealings with his son, I think Roman learned a new appreciation for and acceptance of his mother. I have to admit, when Roman stood up to Tate’s principal, remembering the times his own father never stood up for him, I teared up. There were so many relationship similarities in this story. Roman’s issues with Tate were very much like his own issues with his mom. It truly showed how childhood struggles can carry over into adulthood.
Mila’s mother was far from a conventional mom. More like a crazy, gypsy. With her strange predictions and even stranger “gifts”, she was a walking people repellant. Mila loved her mom though, and when she discovered the secret her mom had been hiding from her, she was hurt. But Mila handled it in pure Mila fashion. That’s one of the things I love about her character. She’s a tough girl. She handles herself well and doesn’t lose control, but sets out a plan of action. That’s what Roman needed and one reason they were such a good match. Roman needed someone to help him face his struggles and work to resolve them, or at least find a way to live with them and not let them keep him from finding happiness. The way Roman and Mila were there for each other when they needed a friend melted my heart.
While there were family issues and angst, Delores Fossen tells the story in her usual witty way, managing to bring humor and hope to real life struggles. She has some of the best lines of any author I’ve ever read. She needs to publish a collection of her best zingers. Days later, I’m still snorting about the pop rocks in the panties comment. While #3 in the series, Branded As Trouble can be read as a stand-alone, but I highly recommend starting at the beginning so you don’t miss out on all the fun. This series is humorous, witty, and sometimes delightfully silly but still resonates with emotion and real character development. It’s the kind of romance that will make you laugh, sigh, and wish you could move to Wrangler’s Creek. A Book Obsessed Chicks Review Team Selection
August 7, 2017
Every book by Delores Fossen I read only reinforces my belief that she has mastered the ability to write the craziest, wackiest and funniest small town stories that capture the good, the bad and the ugly; stuff that will make you cringe, roll your eyes and laugh out loud; and BRANDED AS TROUBLE is no different. If you need a book to make you laugh or need a lighthearted and entertaining pick-me-up, this book and this author's work is sure to do the job.
Roman Granger has stayed as far away from Wrangler's Creek as he possibly could since he left, but the needs of his teenage son outweigh any of the issues that drove him away and he'll take on his demons to give his son whatever he needs, but coming back also means he has to deal with his past so he can focus on his son's well-being.
One person who has always been there for Roman and his son Tate is Tate's aunt, Mila Banchini. Mila has always had feelings for Roman but she's also made her peace with the fact that those feelings will never be reciprocated. Until Roman returns and both he and his son need her, bringing her into close contact with them and reviving the hope that maybe this time, things could be different.
And there's also the 800 pound elephant in the room that Mila needs help with and who better to help than the only man she's ever wanted? Especially when it's such a well-known secret and every man within a five mile radius is lining up to help. But Roman has a firm rule that he's not willing to break even for Mila, not to mention his determination to avoid emotional entanglements as well as Mila's family ties to his ex could complicate things even further. Not to mention the nosy townspeople and Mila's own mother, who could charitably be described as a kook.
To be honest, this story was heading towards over the top territory for me, with both Roman and Mila's mothers bringing more drama in their wake than an acting troupe, but I'm always down for a good laugh. There is definitely a large cast of characters, fun and not-so fun to contend with in this story and I would recommend reading the previous books before this one, to get a good grasp of who's who.
I enjoyed Mila a lot, especially because she was pragmatic and resourceful. Roman was also an enjoyable character who endeared himself to me with his determination to be everything his father was not.
Overall, this was a really great read and if you don't mind a lot of family drama in your stories, this is definitely one book and series I'll recommend reading.
Disclaimer: I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book. All opinions stated are solely mine.
Want more? Subscribe to my Newsletter on The Sassy Bookster.
Follow me on Twitter | Tumblr | Bloglovin’.
Like my page on Facebook.
Roman Granger has stayed as far away from Wrangler's Creek as he possibly could since he left, but the needs of his teenage son outweigh any of the issues that drove him away and he'll take on his demons to give his son whatever he needs, but coming back also means he has to deal with his past so he can focus on his son's well-being.
One person who has always been there for Roman and his son Tate is Tate's aunt, Mila Banchini. Mila has always had feelings for Roman but she's also made her peace with the fact that those feelings will never be reciprocated. Until Roman returns and both he and his son need her, bringing her into close contact with them and reviving the hope that maybe this time, things could be different.
And there's also the 800 pound elephant in the room that Mila needs help with and who better to help than the only man she's ever wanted? Especially when it's such a well-known secret and every man within a five mile radius is lining up to help. But Roman has a firm rule that he's not willing to break even for Mila, not to mention his determination to avoid emotional entanglements as well as Mila's family ties to his ex could complicate things even further. Not to mention the nosy townspeople and Mila's own mother, who could charitably be described as a kook.
To be honest, this story was heading towards over the top territory for me, with both Roman and Mila's mothers bringing more drama in their wake than an acting troupe, but I'm always down for a good laugh. There is definitely a large cast of characters, fun and not-so fun to contend with in this story and I would recommend reading the previous books before this one, to get a good grasp of who's who.
I enjoyed Mila a lot, especially because she was pragmatic and resourceful. Roman was also an enjoyable character who endeared himself to me with his determination to be everything his father was not.
Overall, this was a really great read and if you don't mind a lot of family drama in your stories, this is definitely one book and series I'll recommend reading.
Disclaimer: I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book. All opinions stated are solely mine.
Want more? Subscribe to my Newsletter on The Sassy Bookster.
Follow me on Twitter | Tumblr | Bloglovin’.
Like my page on Facebook.
May 22, 2017
This is Roman's story and it is a doozy. After getting his high school girlfriend pregnant and having to raise his son Tate by himself after said girlfriend dumped both of them. Roman made a rule to only sleep with woman three times. "Three times or less was just casual sex, but anything more then that strayed into commitment territory." He was used to woman chasing him and wanting more but when he is forced to move back to the ranch because of his sons problems and reconnects with Mila. Sparks fly and try as he might he seams drawn to her. Knowing she is still a virgin and the towns good girl is reason enough for him to leave her alone. But he can't seam to stay away. When she informs him she wants him to be her first. Well lets just say red flags that scream commitment go up all over the place. Will he be able to resist??
This book is a page turner as are all of Dolores Fossen's. It is full of humor, intrigue, and moments that will pull at your heart strings. I highly recommend this book. It can be read as a standalone but you really should go read all of this series. I love all the characters of Wrangler's Creek and know that you will too.
*A Book Obsessed Chicks Review Team Selection.*
This book is a page turner as are all of Dolores Fossen's. It is full of humor, intrigue, and moments that will pull at your heart strings. I highly recommend this book. It can be read as a standalone but you really should go read all of this series. I love all the characters of Wrangler's Creek and know that you will too.
*A Book Obsessed Chicks Review Team Selection.*
October 14, 2017
Branded as Trouble is the third book in the Wrangler's Creek series, and having thoroughly enjoyed the first two books in the series, I was eager to read this one, and, as has been the case, this installment in the series was another excellent and fun read, and it gets 5 stars from this reader.
Roman Granger is the divorced dad of 13-year old Tate, but his work in one of the family-owned businesses keeps him away from home for long periods of time, and home hasn't been the ranch for a very long time. He wanted no part of the family ranch he owns and avoids because of a deep-seated issue with his mother, Belle. After Tate hits another student at his school and is expelled with 6 weeks left in the school year, Roman is forced to return to Wrangler's Creek and enroll Tate in school there until summer break begins.
Also in Wrangler's Creek is 31-year-old, bookstore owner, Mila Banchini, Tate's aunt. She's been in love with Roman for as long as she can remember and the talk of the town is that she's still a virgin. Thirteen years earlier, Roman impregnated and then married Mila's sister, Valerie. When Valerie deserted both Roman and her infant child, Tate, Roman divorced her, leaving Roman angry and bitter, a condition he was used to because of his poor relationship with his mother. But now that Roman is back in town, is there a chance that he'll return Mila's feelings? Mila doubts it since it's well-known that Roman doesn't do relationships, and, in fact, has a 3-and-done rule which is engraved in stone. To his way of thinking, only having sex 3 times and walking away is his way to remain commitment-free.
Add into the mix and drama some of the most well-drawn and kookiest, nosiest, most interfering and just plain strange secondary characters, a subplot of fantasy-dating, the mystery of who fathered Mila, Mila's bizarre and offbeat, fortune-telling mother, Vita, a possible lawsuit over a disputed 100 acres of the ranch, Tate's acting out, trouble at school, and the imminent birth of twins, the return of Valerie, Mila's wanting to rid herself of her virginity, and just when you think things couldn't possibly get more complicated they do. Although I've complained in other reviews about novels with too many characters to keep straight, Ms. Fossen manages to make them all memorable enough that once you figure out who's who, the large cast of characters all begin to feel real and make sense. All of this is a lot to cover in a novel, but as I've come to learn, Delores Fossen is a master at both small-town drama and comedy, and, as you get into in this masterfully written novel, you'll laugh, you'll cry, and you'll be thoroughly entertained throughout.
Since there is the aforementioned large cast of characters, although Branded as Trouble works as a standalone, I highly recommend you read the first two novels in this series in the order they were written. Both are highly enjoyable reads, and I think you'll become as captivated with this sweet, sad, funny, sexy and quirky series as I have been.
I voluntarily read an advance reader copy of this novel. The opinions expressed are my own.
Roman Granger is the divorced dad of 13-year old Tate, but his work in one of the family-owned businesses keeps him away from home for long periods of time, and home hasn't been the ranch for a very long time. He wanted no part of the family ranch he owns and avoids because of a deep-seated issue with his mother, Belle. After Tate hits another student at his school and is expelled with 6 weeks left in the school year, Roman is forced to return to Wrangler's Creek and enroll Tate in school there until summer break begins.
Also in Wrangler's Creek is 31-year-old, bookstore owner, Mila Banchini, Tate's aunt. She's been in love with Roman for as long as she can remember and the talk of the town is that she's still a virgin. Thirteen years earlier, Roman impregnated and then married Mila's sister, Valerie. When Valerie deserted both Roman and her infant child, Tate, Roman divorced her, leaving Roman angry and bitter, a condition he was used to because of his poor relationship with his mother. But now that Roman is back in town, is there a chance that he'll return Mila's feelings? Mila doubts it since it's well-known that Roman doesn't do relationships, and, in fact, has a 3-and-done rule which is engraved in stone. To his way of thinking, only having sex 3 times and walking away is his way to remain commitment-free.
Add into the mix and drama some of the most well-drawn and kookiest, nosiest, most interfering and just plain strange secondary characters, a subplot of fantasy-dating, the mystery of who fathered Mila, Mila's bizarre and offbeat, fortune-telling mother, Vita, a possible lawsuit over a disputed 100 acres of the ranch, Tate's acting out, trouble at school, and the imminent birth of twins, the return of Valerie, Mila's wanting to rid herself of her virginity, and just when you think things couldn't possibly get more complicated they do. Although I've complained in other reviews about novels with too many characters to keep straight, Ms. Fossen manages to make them all memorable enough that once you figure out who's who, the large cast of characters all begin to feel real and make sense. All of this is a lot to cover in a novel, but as I've come to learn, Delores Fossen is a master at both small-town drama and comedy, and, as you get into in this masterfully written novel, you'll laugh, you'll cry, and you'll be thoroughly entertained throughout.
Since there is the aforementioned large cast of characters, although Branded as Trouble works as a standalone, I highly recommend you read the first two novels in this series in the order they were written. Both are highly enjoyable reads, and I think you'll become as captivated with this sweet, sad, funny, sexy and quirky series as I have been.
I voluntarily read an advance reader copy of this novel. The opinions expressed are my own.
August 3, 2017
copy received from TLC Book Tours for an honest review
I've long been a fan of Harlequin Books since I could remember. Their books are always filled with romance a treat to read. Although I frequently read Harlequin, this is my first time reading Delores Fossen! Luckily for me it was a great treat to experience her writing. I loved the second-chance romance storyline. I also loved to see how Roman grew and changed through the years and ultimately how he handled his sons decisions. Another aspect, aside from the second chance romance, is the cowboy setting in Texas. Although I never been to Texas, the images presented by Fossen make it very romantic and earthy. I personally love the bad boy falls for the good girl scenario and Fossen definitely follows that example. Although Roman has very strict rules for how long he will stay with a woman he seems very conflicted when it come to dealing with Mila. Mila is nothing like Roman and that is one of the reasons he is so drawn to her. I loved the chemistry between both characters and I like the person that Roman ultimately became. I really enjoyed and recommend this sweet and heartfelt story. Fossen really pulled at my heart strings and many times I found myself sighing with the many tender moments that make up this sweet romance.
I've long been a fan of Harlequin Books since I could remember. Their books are always filled with romance a treat to read. Although I frequently read Harlequin, this is my first time reading Delores Fossen! Luckily for me it was a great treat to experience her writing. I loved the second-chance romance storyline. I also loved to see how Roman grew and changed through the years and ultimately how he handled his sons decisions. Another aspect, aside from the second chance romance, is the cowboy setting in Texas. Although I never been to Texas, the images presented by Fossen make it very romantic and earthy. I personally love the bad boy falls for the good girl scenario and Fossen definitely follows that example. Although Roman has very strict rules for how long he will stay with a woman he seems very conflicted when it come to dealing with Mila. Mila is nothing like Roman and that is one of the reasons he is so drawn to her. I loved the chemistry between both characters and I like the person that Roman ultimately became. I really enjoyed and recommend this sweet and heartfelt story. Fossen really pulled at my heart strings and many times I found myself sighing with the many tender moments that make up this sweet romance.
April 18, 2017
4.5*
This was a book of how hurts as a child follow you to adulthood and shape you for good and bad. Misunderstandings and broken trust build walls that may never fall.
Roman Granger considered the badass of the family. He's stayed away from the ranch since he was 18 and a single father. Now thrown back in the middle of family and the ranch for the sake of his son Tate he's forced to face the past he'd rather forget. Mila Banchini his sisters best friend and Tate's mothers cousin is the opposite from Roman in all most every way except for her love for Tate. Mila has always had a crush on Roman but Roman knows he's no good for Mila and he doesn't do commitment. Their feelings are hard to deny but Roman has a three time rule and then goodbye. Now if only he could stop thinking of her.
Loved the characters, Mila was a joy to read and Roman was super hot and brooding and at times I wanted to smack him upside his head. My heart went out to Tate and his friend Arwen.
*Book Obsessed Chicks Review team
This was a book of how hurts as a child follow you to adulthood and shape you for good and bad. Misunderstandings and broken trust build walls that may never fall.
Roman Granger considered the badass of the family. He's stayed away from the ranch since he was 18 and a single father. Now thrown back in the middle of family and the ranch for the sake of his son Tate he's forced to face the past he'd rather forget. Mila Banchini his sisters best friend and Tate's mothers cousin is the opposite from Roman in all most every way except for her love for Tate. Mila has always had a crush on Roman but Roman knows he's no good for Mila and he doesn't do commitment. Their feelings are hard to deny but Roman has a three time rule and then goodbye. Now if only he could stop thinking of her.
Loved the characters, Mila was a joy to read and Roman was super hot and brooding and at times I wanted to smack him upside his head. My heart went out to Tate and his friend Arwen.
*Book Obsessed Chicks Review team
July 21, 2018
Good book. Roman is the third of the Grangers and the one who is actually the owner of the ranch, even though he wants nothing to do with it. Instead, he concentrates on his own rodeo business and takes care of his son. Things aren’t going smoothly on that front, and Roman came home from a business trip to find that Tate was in trouble at school. The only thing to do is pack up and finish out the school year in Wrangler’s Creek, the very last place he wants to go.
Tate’s aunt Mila has stayed in Wrangler’s Creek, where she is the good girl to Roman’s bad boy. She’s had it bad for Roman for years and no other man has been able to compete. Though she knows there’s no chance of a future, maybe she can finally fulfill one of her dreams.
I liked both Roman and Mila. Roman is a good man who has been burned one too many times, causing him to do what he must to protect his heart. There was his first love, Valerie, who deserted him and Tate and still can hurt them both with her selfish behavior. Then there’s the contentious relationship he has with his mother. In this book, we finally learn what is behind it, and the betrayal he felt by her actions was completely understandable. Roman protects himself by avoiding any commitment – “three and done” is his motto and way of preventing any woman from getting ideas. However, he does have a deep love for his family, and I enjoyed seeing him spend more time with them. I also loved his determination to be a better father to Tate than his was to him. I ached for his feelings of helplessness as he tried to help Tate through his issues.
Mila is another one who has a love of family. She has a close relationship with Tate and is sympathetic to his problems with his mother. She has spent her whole life dealing with her mother, who is quite the piece of work. Mila is stunned by a secret that Vita reveals and which causes Mila to question things she thought she knew about herself. I liked the way that she faced it and made plans to deal with it, without turning it into a majorly dramatic situation.
I liked the development of the relationship between Roman and Mila. The sparks are there and intense, and Mila is ready to take advantage of them. Roman is a good man who believes that he can’t give her what she needs but finds it increasingly hard to resist her. I liked seeing Mila wear him down, though he certainly fought hard. Roman was definitely not happy to find himself thinking about Mila and about spending more time with her, even after their agreed upon encounters were over. I liked the way that Mila gets past Roman’s walls and helps him make peace with his past, just as Roman supports Mila in her search for her father. But Roman’s fears are still there, holding him back. The proverbial smack upside the head came from an unexpected source, and I loved how it happened. Roman’s big moment at the end was pretty sweet, with a side of sexy.
There was also a sweet side story with Tate and a girl from school. I liked the way that Arwen wanted to help him, having been through something similar herself. I felt bad for her with her home situation and loved the way that Roman and Mila stood up for her.
Tate’s aunt Mila has stayed in Wrangler’s Creek, where she is the good girl to Roman’s bad boy. She’s had it bad for Roman for years and no other man has been able to compete. Though she knows there’s no chance of a future, maybe she can finally fulfill one of her dreams.
I liked both Roman and Mila. Roman is a good man who has been burned one too many times, causing him to do what he must to protect his heart. There was his first love, Valerie, who deserted him and Tate and still can hurt them both with her selfish behavior. Then there’s the contentious relationship he has with his mother. In this book, we finally learn what is behind it, and the betrayal he felt by her actions was completely understandable. Roman protects himself by avoiding any commitment – “three and done” is his motto and way of preventing any woman from getting ideas. However, he does have a deep love for his family, and I enjoyed seeing him spend more time with them. I also loved his determination to be a better father to Tate than his was to him. I ached for his feelings of helplessness as he tried to help Tate through his issues.
Mila is another one who has a love of family. She has a close relationship with Tate and is sympathetic to his problems with his mother. She has spent her whole life dealing with her mother, who is quite the piece of work. Mila is stunned by a secret that Vita reveals and which causes Mila to question things she thought she knew about herself. I liked the way that she faced it and made plans to deal with it, without turning it into a majorly dramatic situation.
I liked the development of the relationship between Roman and Mila. The sparks are there and intense, and Mila is ready to take advantage of them. Roman is a good man who believes that he can’t give her what she needs but finds it increasingly hard to resist her. I liked seeing Mila wear him down, though he certainly fought hard. Roman was definitely not happy to find himself thinking about Mila and about spending more time with her, even after their agreed upon encounters were over. I liked the way that Mila gets past Roman’s walls and helps him make peace with his past, just as Roman supports Mila in her search for her father. But Roman’s fears are still there, holding him back. The proverbial smack upside the head came from an unexpected source, and I loved how it happened. Roman’s big moment at the end was pretty sweet, with a side of sexy.
There was also a sweet side story with Tate and a girl from school. I liked the way that Arwen wanted to help him, having been through something similar herself. I felt bad for her with her home situation and loved the way that Roman and Mila stood up for her.
June 27, 2017
Roman Granger might have been the black sheep of the family and the town’s bad boy, but he’s always taken parenting seriously, and when his thirteen year-old son Tate shows signs of following his footsteps, he knows he must stay close to the boy, but after Tate gets in a school fight, he runs away to a friend, Mila Banchini. Mila has always been infatuated with handsome Roman: a single father when still in his teens, he has a business to run, he has never had time for relationships. But events bring him closer to Mila, who contrary to Roman, the ladies’ man, is still a virgin at 31, and the whole town knows about her status as well as her long-time crush; talk about embarrassing.
I was so eager for Roman’s story after reading NO GETTING OVER A COWBOY, and he remains the charismatic character glimpsed in the previous book. But first of all, I must confess one thing: I am not a fan of virgins, even less of “older” virgins, and had I known beforehand that it was the case with Mila, I probably would not have chosen to read BRANDED AS TROUBLE. It is not the author’s fault, it’s one of my pet peeves, and since the virgin trope seems to be a favourite subject in many romance novels, I must grin and bear it. On the other hand, it was somewhat understandable that Mila was still a virgin, given the small town where everyone knows everybody else’s business; her mother who is, to put it mildly, an original, and scared most boys away. What I had problems with – and this is not a unique case – is having a youthful crush that literally stops you from even attempting to have a life because no one measures up to your object of desire; I find it difficult to process for someone in their twenties, but in their early thirties? I thought it very sad to put one’s life on hold because the dream man is unattainable. Anyway, my real problem is that, while Mila is head over heals with him, Roman seemed to suddenly become wildly attracted to Mila, for no reason whatsoever, and responding to her offer of sex felt to me as if he was doing her a favour. There was a genuine friendship, but I didn’t feel any sparks, and I think Mila should not have been a romantic interest for Roman. Interestingly enough, the story in BRANDED AS TROUBLE is sufficiently strong, that the romance was not really necessary.
The strained Granger family relationships are so intricate they held my attention throughout, particularly between the interactions between Tate and Roman, and Tate’s mother Valerie. In fact, all the events concerning Tate were my favourite parts of the book, and I’m usually not crazy about teenage woes in romances. The characters are wonderfully fleshed out, the dialogues superb, and the writing impeccable, as is always the case with Ms. Fossen, and the storytelling riveting.
̴ A Book Obsessed Chicks Review Team Selection
I was so eager for Roman’s story after reading NO GETTING OVER A COWBOY, and he remains the charismatic character glimpsed in the previous book. But first of all, I must confess one thing: I am not a fan of virgins, even less of “older” virgins, and had I known beforehand that it was the case with Mila, I probably would not have chosen to read BRANDED AS TROUBLE. It is not the author’s fault, it’s one of my pet peeves, and since the virgin trope seems to be a favourite subject in many romance novels, I must grin and bear it. On the other hand, it was somewhat understandable that Mila was still a virgin, given the small town where everyone knows everybody else’s business; her mother who is, to put it mildly, an original, and scared most boys away. What I had problems with – and this is not a unique case – is having a youthful crush that literally stops you from even attempting to have a life because no one measures up to your object of desire; I find it difficult to process for someone in their twenties, but in their early thirties? I thought it very sad to put one’s life on hold because the dream man is unattainable. Anyway, my real problem is that, while Mila is head over heals with him, Roman seemed to suddenly become wildly attracted to Mila, for no reason whatsoever, and responding to her offer of sex felt to me as if he was doing her a favour. There was a genuine friendship, but I didn’t feel any sparks, and I think Mila should not have been a romantic interest for Roman. Interestingly enough, the story in BRANDED AS TROUBLE is sufficiently strong, that the romance was not really necessary.
The strained Granger family relationships are so intricate they held my attention throughout, particularly between the interactions between Tate and Roman, and Tate’s mother Valerie. In fact, all the events concerning Tate were my favourite parts of the book, and I’m usually not crazy about teenage woes in romances. The characters are wonderfully fleshed out, the dialogues superb, and the writing impeccable, as is always the case with Ms. Fossen, and the storytelling riveting.
̴ A Book Obsessed Chicks Review Team Selection
August 15, 2017
Mila Banchini has a lot going for her. She's smart, pretty, a good friend, and owner of the local bookstore. She also has a wacky mother most people in town steer clear of and, oh yeah, she's most likely the only virgin over the age of 25 in Wrangler's Creek. Plenty of men (of all ages) are willing to help with her "little problem" but Mila's heart has always been set on Roman Granger. Too bad Roman fell for her self-centered cousin in high school. In the years since Mila's cousin left town, abandoning Roman and their baby son, Roman has hooked up with pretty much everyone except Mila. But now, after many years away, circumstances have brought Roman back to Wrangler's Creek and Mila intends to make the most of it while he's there, even if her heart does get broken when he leaves.
I've been intrigued by the absent Granger son, Roman since the first book in this series. We knew he was estranged from his mother, that he owns the Granger ranch but wants nothing to do with it, that he's a successful businessman in his own right, that's he's a motorcycle-riding hottie with a badass attitude and that he's trying his best to be a good father to his troubled son...and failing miserably. What we didn't know was what had happened in the past to bring Roman Granger to this point, why he'd never given Mila a second glance (or had he?) and why he never, ever, under any circumstances, had sex with a woman more than three times. I was more than ready to find out the answers to all these questions and more in Branded as Trouble.
Delores Fossen has become one of my go-to contemporary western romance authors. She creates wonderfully complex families and well-developed, likable characters, giving them challenges to overcome and journeys to love in stories infused with heat, heart, and plenty of humor. She isn't afraid to tackle serious topics - as she does in Branded as Trouble - but does so with compassion and hope. Her books are filled with realistic characters: some quirky, some serious, some annoying, some fun, some shy, and some oozing with sex appeal, playing them against one another like a well-tuned orchestra. I've enjoyed all the books in this series but Mila and Roman's story is my favorite. What can I say? I've always loved a bad boy with a wounded heart. And Mila, what a terrific heroine. I loved her strength, her compassion, and her determination to take control of her destiny and not settle for less than what she deserved.
If you enjoy western-set, contemporary romances filled with fun, sizzle, humor, and emotion, go no further than Delores Fossen's Wrangler's Creek series: Those Texas Nights (Sophie Granger and Clay McKinnon), No Getting Over a Cowboy (Garrett Granger and Nicky Marlow) and Branded as Trouble (Roman Granger and Mila Banchini).
4.5 Stars
Posted at The Romance Dish
I've been intrigued by the absent Granger son, Roman since the first book in this series. We knew he was estranged from his mother, that he owns the Granger ranch but wants nothing to do with it, that he's a successful businessman in his own right, that's he's a motorcycle-riding hottie with a badass attitude and that he's trying his best to be a good father to his troubled son...and failing miserably. What we didn't know was what had happened in the past to bring Roman Granger to this point, why he'd never given Mila a second glance (or had he?) and why he never, ever, under any circumstances, had sex with a woman more than three times. I was more than ready to find out the answers to all these questions and more in Branded as Trouble.
Delores Fossen has become one of my go-to contemporary western romance authors. She creates wonderfully complex families and well-developed, likable characters, giving them challenges to overcome and journeys to love in stories infused with heat, heart, and plenty of humor. She isn't afraid to tackle serious topics - as she does in Branded as Trouble - but does so with compassion and hope. Her books are filled with realistic characters: some quirky, some serious, some annoying, some fun, some shy, and some oozing with sex appeal, playing them against one another like a well-tuned orchestra. I've enjoyed all the books in this series but Mila and Roman's story is my favorite. What can I say? I've always loved a bad boy with a wounded heart. And Mila, what a terrific heroine. I loved her strength, her compassion, and her determination to take control of her destiny and not settle for less than what she deserved.
If you enjoy western-set, contemporary romances filled with fun, sizzle, humor, and emotion, go no further than Delores Fossen's Wrangler's Creek series: Those Texas Nights (Sophie Granger and Clay McKinnon), No Getting Over a Cowboy (Garrett Granger and Nicky Marlow) and Branded as Trouble (Roman Granger and Mila Banchini).
4.5 Stars
Posted at The Romance Dish
June 28, 2017
I try not to get all fangirl and start gushing out about Branded As Trouble but I can't guarantee it will not happen. I loved the story, absolutely every brilliant word of it. Delores Fossen's writing is something else. She can capture into one sentence so many emotions and layers of meaning it is delightful to just read the books, not to mention enjoy the stories. There can be so much tragedy and sadness in the meaning of the words and in the story yet it is said and expressed in such a way I could not help but chuckle as I was reading.
The bad boy Roman Granger is used to keep people at the arm's length to avoid emotions. Except for his son and Mila Banchini. Yet his son would rather keep his dad away from his business, and Mila, she has had a crush on him since they were teens.
Both Roman and Mila are complex characters, there is much more to them than you might catch on the first look. Their emotions run deep, they love fiercely, they fight for and protect those they care for, and they both adore Roman's son, Tate.
I loved the connection between Roman and Mila. There was raw honesty, openness, and deep-rooted emotions. They said what they meant, they did what they wanted, no smoke and mirrors between them. Yet there was passion, humor, and adoration that was striking.
There is so much more going on in the story than just romance like there always is at Wrangler's Creek. There are family drama and trouble, there are issues with parenting both teens and toddlers, there is an undercurrent theme with teenage angst and relationship with their parents. All this is well twined into the tale of Roman and Mila finding their way to each other. There is chaos, mayhem, and turbulence in town, in families, and in relationships just like there is in life in general. Yet it is all told with an enjoyable sarcasm and humor, with emotions that captivate and touch your heart, presented by characters that allure and charm you completely, and you end up wishing the story would not end, enchanted by the world they live in. Yes, I absolutely loved it!
~ Five Spoons!
The bad boy Roman Granger is used to keep people at the arm's length to avoid emotions. Except for his son and Mila Banchini. Yet his son would rather keep his dad away from his business, and Mila, she has had a crush on him since they were teens.
Both Roman and Mila are complex characters, there is much more to them than you might catch on the first look. Their emotions run deep, they love fiercely, they fight for and protect those they care for, and they both adore Roman's son, Tate.
I loved the connection between Roman and Mila. There was raw honesty, openness, and deep-rooted emotions. They said what they meant, they did what they wanted, no smoke and mirrors between them. Yet there was passion, humor, and adoration that was striking.
There is so much more going on in the story than just romance like there always is at Wrangler's Creek. There are family drama and trouble, there are issues with parenting both teens and toddlers, there is an undercurrent theme with teenage angst and relationship with their parents. All this is well twined into the tale of Roman and Mila finding their way to each other. There is chaos, mayhem, and turbulence in town, in families, and in relationships just like there is in life in general. Yet it is all told with an enjoyable sarcasm and humor, with emotions that captivate and touch your heart, presented by characters that allure and charm you completely, and you end up wishing the story would not end, enchanted by the world they live in. Yes, I absolutely loved it!
~ Five Spoons!
September 10, 2017
"Branded as Trouble" is Delores Fossen's newest book in the "Wrangler's Creek" series. This book is the long-awaited instalment from Roman Granger's perspective, Roman having been an important but somewhat reclusive character in the previous two books in the series.
After his high-school girlfriend left him and their baby, Roman took his son (Tate) and left Wrangler's Creek, despite being the owner of the ranch there. In San Antonio, Roman stays as far away from his family as possible- which is difficult, since Tate returns to the Wrangler's Creek whenever he can. When Tate begins having a hard time and proposes moving back, Roman has no choice but to agree- even though moving back will bring him closer to Mila.
While I really enjoyed Roman's story, I was less than excited about the female lead in this book, Mila. It felt like far too big a deal was made of her virginity, and the fixation became uncomfortable and unnecessary. Mila's search for her father became annoying and introduced unpleasant characters, and I didn't like the idea of her fantasy dates even in Sophie's first book. I definitely found myself invested in Roman and the book's subplots (such as Belle and Billy Lee, and Tate's subplots) but would have enjoyed this more if 50% of the book wasn't dedicated to Mila.
Despite this, like all of her previous books that I've read, this book does a great job of creating a sense of place. Each time I read one of this author's books, I'm transported to various small, Southern towns/ farms. As well, the author does a great job of bringing the characters from her previous books forwards, showing us updates on Sophie and Clay, as well as Garrett and Nikki. This familiarity makes the series feel like coming home with each new instalment.
Overall, this was a worthwhile read and I'm happily surprised to see that there's a fourth book coming in the series, since I can't think of who it would be about (Dylan, maybe?). Either way, I'll be sure to continue come February 2018.
After his high-school girlfriend left him and their baby, Roman took his son (Tate) and left Wrangler's Creek, despite being the owner of the ranch there. In San Antonio, Roman stays as far away from his family as possible- which is difficult, since Tate returns to the Wrangler's Creek whenever he can. When Tate begins having a hard time and proposes moving back, Roman has no choice but to agree- even though moving back will bring him closer to Mila.
While I really enjoyed Roman's story, I was less than excited about the female lead in this book, Mila. It felt like far too big a deal was made of her virginity, and the fixation became uncomfortable and unnecessary. Mila's search for her father became annoying and introduced unpleasant characters, and I didn't like the idea of her fantasy dates even in Sophie's first book. I definitely found myself invested in Roman and the book's subplots (such as Belle and Billy Lee, and Tate's subplots) but would have enjoyed this more if 50% of the book wasn't dedicated to Mila.
Despite this, like all of her previous books that I've read, this book does a great job of creating a sense of place. Each time I read one of this author's books, I'm transported to various small, Southern towns/ farms. As well, the author does a great job of bringing the characters from her previous books forwards, showing us updates on Sophie and Clay, as well as Garrett and Nikki. This familiarity makes the series feel like coming home with each new instalment.
Overall, this was a worthwhile read and I'm happily surprised to see that there's a fourth book coming in the series, since I can't think of who it would be about (Dylan, maybe?). Either way, I'll be sure to continue come February 2018.
June 1, 2017
This was a hilarious read. The romance, conflict, the characters, as well as how the plot played out made this book hilarious, enchanting, and sexy at the same time.
Roman has had a ...... weird life. He wasn't ready for fatherhood after the horrendous role model his father was. But when he got his high school girlfriend pregnant he stepped up to the task and did everything he could to make it work. And when his girlfriend left town he took over sole responsibility for his son Tate. He did everything he needed to in order to be a good father for his son. But now that Tate may be following in the somewhat rebellious footsteps of Romans youth Roman is determined to do whatever he can in order for his son to become a better man than Roman ever was or could ever hope to be. But after Tate's latest escapade Tate ends up running away and Roman is frantic. But after the Tate ran away the first time Roman knows where to look. With Mila, his ex's cousin.
Mila has always been labeled a freak thanks to her mothers antics and her... eccentric thoughts about life. Mila is trying her best to be normal, or as normal as a girl who is in love with her cousins ex can be, oh and a almost 30 year old virgin. Everyone in town knows she has a giant crush on Roman and after finding Romans son she is trying to do what she can to help them both. Even though it means giving up her potential happiness by bringing her cousin back home for her son.
This was a highly addictive, hilarious book filled with reform, new beginnings, witty dialog, and meddlesome families. I would highly recommend this book as well as any other book by Ms. Fossen as they do not disappoint.
~A Book Obsessed Chicks Review Team Selection
Roman has had a ...... weird life. He wasn't ready for fatherhood after the horrendous role model his father was. But when he got his high school girlfriend pregnant he stepped up to the task and did everything he could to make it work. And when his girlfriend left town he took over sole responsibility for his son Tate. He did everything he needed to in order to be a good father for his son. But now that Tate may be following in the somewhat rebellious footsteps of Romans youth Roman is determined to do whatever he can in order for his son to become a better man than Roman ever was or could ever hope to be. But after Tate's latest escapade Tate ends up running away and Roman is frantic. But after the Tate ran away the first time Roman knows where to look. With Mila, his ex's cousin.
Mila has always been labeled a freak thanks to her mothers antics and her... eccentric thoughts about life. Mila is trying her best to be normal, or as normal as a girl who is in love with her cousins ex can be, oh and a almost 30 year old virgin. Everyone in town knows she has a giant crush on Roman and after finding Romans son she is trying to do what she can to help them both. Even though it means giving up her potential happiness by bringing her cousin back home for her son.
This was a highly addictive, hilarious book filled with reform, new beginnings, witty dialog, and meddlesome families. I would highly recommend this book as well as any other book by Ms. Fossen as they do not disappoint.
~A Book Obsessed Chicks Review Team Selection
July 10, 2017
My first book by Delores Fossen and certainly not my last.
The Good: The personal conflicts cropping up throughout this small town has a little bit of a Soap Opera feel to it but I loved every minute of it. I very much enjoyed most of the characters and their quirks. I felt the family connections between the Grangers and their extended family, including Mila, was probably one of the best things about this book. Although not completely parallel, the town reminds me a bit like Brenda Novak's Whiskey Creek or Susan Mallery's Fool Gold settings.
The Bad: One of my least favorite romance tropes is an older virgin. At 31, Mila and her virginity, seems completely weird. Barring a vow of celibacy while waiting for marriage or Jesus I'm not sure a woman remains a virgin to 30+ without having something seriously wrong with her. In Mila's case, she was just too picky she said. She had her heart set on Roman. Therefore she refused to do the deed until Roman came around and did the deed with her. Even for a romance novel this seems pretty far fetched. One last thing that bugged me a bit. Both Mila's and Roman's mothers seemed equally quirky. Mila's mom is an ex free loving flower child who thinks she's psychic and is rumored to put the stink-eye on people that cross her. Roman's mom is a widow of many years who raised 4 children and is more of a society icon in the town because the Grangers pretty much own the town. These women are polar opposites yet seem to have the same wacky impulses. It was a bit weird but not necessarily a deal breaker when it comes to the enjoy-ability of this book.
In a Nutshell: I really enjoyed this book and will seek out the rest of the series. If you like those small town feel contemporary romances please pick this one up.
The Good: The personal conflicts cropping up throughout this small town has a little bit of a Soap Opera feel to it but I loved every minute of it. I very much enjoyed most of the characters and their quirks. I felt the family connections between the Grangers and their extended family, including Mila, was probably one of the best things about this book. Although not completely parallel, the town reminds me a bit like Brenda Novak's Whiskey Creek or Susan Mallery's Fool Gold settings.
The Bad: One of my least favorite romance tropes is an older virgin. At 31, Mila and her virginity, seems completely weird. Barring a vow of celibacy while waiting for marriage or Jesus I'm not sure a woman remains a virgin to 30+ without having something seriously wrong with her. In Mila's case, she was just too picky she said. She had her heart set on Roman. Therefore she refused to do the deed until Roman came around and did the deed with her. Even for a romance novel this seems pretty far fetched. One last thing that bugged me a bit. Both Mila's and Roman's mothers seemed equally quirky. Mila's mom is an ex free loving flower child who thinks she's psychic and is rumored to put the stink-eye on people that cross her. Roman's mom is a widow of many years who raised 4 children and is more of a society icon in the town because the Grangers pretty much own the town. These women are polar opposites yet seem to have the same wacky impulses. It was a bit weird but not necessarily a deal breaker when it comes to the enjoy-ability of this book.
In a Nutshell: I really enjoyed this book and will seek out the rest of the series. If you like those small town feel contemporary romances please pick this one up.
July 24, 2017
One of the Wrangler's Creek series, in which we meet commitment-phobe Roman Granger who's convinced that keeping sex to three times and then saying good-bye is protective of his heart, especially after the mother of his 13-year-old son took off shortly after the boy's birth. Every time she shows up, Tate ends up being hurt and now he's acting out, for reasons Roman isn't sure.
When he takes Tate to the family ranch in Wrangler's Creek to get him away from the school where the latest difficulties occurred, he runs into Mila Banchini. She had a crush on Roman when they were in school and seeing him again generates those feelings all over again, making her want to reconsider her plan not to have sex until she's found THE ONE. Maybe losing her virginity to Roman will get her out of the "virgin old maid" category, but there's that stupid "three times and we're done" rule that he insists on maintaining, even though he has a sense that with Mila, he'll be tempted to do the nasty four or more times.
Then there's the big secret Mila's hippy dippy mother lays on her: that the man Mila always thought was her father really wasn't. She wants to find out WHO the guy is, and would even like it to be the man who has the hots for Roman's mother, but it turns out he's not the one. A real dipshit is, which she fears, though she has no intention of asking him to act on what she finally learns.
This contemporary western with a sexy bad boy cowboy is a great summer read, perfect for getting away from bad political news and other downers.
When he takes Tate to the family ranch in Wrangler's Creek to get him away from the school where the latest difficulties occurred, he runs into Mila Banchini. She had a crush on Roman when they were in school and seeing him again generates those feelings all over again, making her want to reconsider her plan not to have sex until she's found THE ONE. Maybe losing her virginity to Roman will get her out of the "virgin old maid" category, but there's that stupid "three times and we're done" rule that he insists on maintaining, even though he has a sense that with Mila, he'll be tempted to do the nasty four or more times.
Then there's the big secret Mila's hippy dippy mother lays on her: that the man Mila always thought was her father really wasn't. She wants to find out WHO the guy is, and would even like it to be the man who has the hots for Roman's mother, but it turns out he's not the one. A real dipshit is, which she fears, though she has no intention of asking him to act on what she finally learns.
This contemporary western with a sexy bad boy cowboy is a great summer read, perfect for getting away from bad political news and other downers.
November 22, 2020
Branded as Trouble by Delores Fossen is a story about family, opposites attract, and friends-to-lovers. The tale follows as one badass cowboy juggles business and raising a teenage son alone. His ex makes raising his son difficult. The son wants his mom to be there for him and love him. But neither his dad nor his mom get along well. Then, there's her saying she will do something but is never there situation. That puts a strain on both the father and son.
As a father, Roman, doesn't want his son to get hurt by his mom and he wants to build his relationship without making it worse. However, the boy's mom, has a cousin who is like an aunt to the boy. She loves the boy fiercely. At times, I would give anything to see the sassy shy woman give her cousin a kick in the butt. The mother and son will need to figure things out on their own, if that happens. Until then, things get complicated, fun, and messy. This was an epic rollercoaster ride. The book was action-packed, amazing dialogue, and great characterization. These characters made this an emotionally charged read. Overall, I cannot wait to read the next cowboy contemporary romance from Delores Fossen!
I received this copy from the publisher. This is my voluntary review.
As a father, Roman, doesn't want his son to get hurt by his mom and he wants to build his relationship without making it worse. However, the boy's mom, has a cousin who is like an aunt to the boy. She loves the boy fiercely. At times, I would give anything to see the sassy shy woman give her cousin a kick in the butt. The mother and son will need to figure things out on their own, if that happens. Until then, things get complicated, fun, and messy. This was an epic rollercoaster ride. The book was action-packed, amazing dialogue, and great characterization. These characters made this an emotionally charged read. Overall, I cannot wait to read the next cowboy contemporary romance from Delores Fossen!
I received this copy from the publisher. This is my voluntary review.
July 1, 2017
Roman is too busy workings and being a single father to a troubled teen to have a relationship. When his son manages to get expelled from his school they decide to start over in a new school back to his home in Wrangler's Creek. Little did he expect to be seeing a lot of Mila who is very different from his son's mother in every way and its she who is slowly but surly making him question his rule of not getting close to any one.
I've been so busy lately that I just needed a moment of escape and this book did that for me. I loved getting to know Roman and Mila and getting their own point of views. I thought it was interesting getting to see the father son relationship. I loved getting to konw the back stories to Roman and seeing why he's a bit guarded and what was up with him and his mothers relationship and no Mila's side seeing her as she searches for her actual father and seeing if he would get any where. I enjoyed seeing the spark between the two and there were a few steamy scenes in the book that were pretty good. The story was well writing with an interesting set of characters and overall story line. I really enjoyed this book.
I've been so busy lately that I just needed a moment of escape and this book did that for me. I loved getting to know Roman and Mila and getting their own point of views. I thought it was interesting getting to see the father son relationship. I loved getting to konw the back stories to Roman and seeing why he's a bit guarded and what was up with him and his mothers relationship and no Mila's side seeing her as she searches for her actual father and seeing if he would get any where. I enjoyed seeing the spark between the two and there were a few steamy scenes in the book that were pretty good. The story was well writing with an interesting set of characters and overall story line. I really enjoyed this book.
March 1, 2021
Branded as Trouble is the third installment in the Wrangler’s Creek series. This storyline was very well developed as were the characters. I was waiting for Roman’s story and I was not let down. I loved seeing a different side of Roman when he interacted with his son, Tate. Then when Tate’s mom comes into town I loved how he protected his son but at times he needed to calm his temper and see that things were changing. Mila is cousin to Tate’s mom and has been in love with Roman since she can remember and now it seems that it is something she is going to have to but behind her and move on with her life. There is only one problem Roman has now put her eyes on her and she is going to be the one to set the rules to this so-called relationship and Roman is not going to like it. Now as for Mila she is going to have her own family drama after her mother leaves her a letter that is going to break Mila’s heart. She is going to start her own investigation and in the end is she going to like the results or is she going to put is all past her and move on to the future.
August 14, 2017
If you're looking for an easy ride into the sunset, think again. Mila and Roman have been dancing around each other for decades... it's not gonna change overnight. No matter what mojo Vita works. No matter how many not so subtle hints are dropped. No matter how many people seem to know about her "v" status that really shouldn't. However, if one of them happened to take a step in the other's direction, play the game by the rules of the other, and make an offer that could hardly be refused... well then, that just might change things. For the better or worse though, remains to be seen... in the mean time, I highly suggest you watch out for the sparks because like it or not, they're gonna fly.
Really enjoyed this one...characters, story, and community included... only downers for me were the crass language at times, and the darn cowboy hats, boots, and buckles. Otherwise, color me a fan!
Really enjoyed this one...characters, story, and community included... only downers for me were the crass language at times, and the darn cowboy hats, boots, and buckles. Otherwise, color me a fan!
June 25, 2017
Roman Granger, the Granger's bad boy, has finally met his match in Mila Banchini who has had a crush on Roman since their high school days. My favorite scene in the book was between Roman and his 13 year old son, Tate. Tate asked just the right question of Roman who avoids relationship like they are a plague. Roman says he is bad at relationships and Tate asked him how he knows. Just the right question at the right time. The other Granger's make a appearance in the story and at least one other gets an HEA. This had some really great laugh out loud moments while also dealing with some of the very serious issues facing teens today. A very nice addition to the Wrangler Creek series.
I received a free copy of the book in return for an honest review.
I received a free copy of the book in return for an honest review.
July 4, 2017
This is Roman's story..Things start out rocky for all..Belle, his mom is in the hospital, but he doesn't know it, his son is in the ER and than Roman collapses and has surgery..they are all in a room together..Roman is hoping that with he and his son together that things will get better for them..Mila is there the whole time...She has had a thing for Roman all her life..He has been a womanizer...But can they make it past his 3 time rule? Things keep popping up.Mila finds out the man she thought was her dad is not her dad...But when she finds out who is she is not happy!! she keeps trying to move forward after Roman deflowers her...Will they let themselves be happy? Will Tate be happy too...A really good read..I loved the book from the first page to the last..
July 20, 2017
This is the first time I’ve read this author’s work and I was so glad I read this book. The characters are so unique and wacky and really interesting, and the prose is crisp. The dialogue is snappy and the story events keep a fast pace throughout the book.
In fact, the only thing I would have liked more of would have been deeper scenes that explored the hero’s reasons for steering clear of relationships. The couple’s romantic conflict is based solely upon that, and I wanted maybe a little more emotion, a little more page time as to why it was such a huge barrier to him.
The ending discussion with his son was really well done, and the story resolution was very sweet. I enjoyed this book a lot.
In fact, the only thing I would have liked more of would have been deeper scenes that explored the hero’s reasons for steering clear of relationships. The couple’s romantic conflict is based solely upon that, and I wanted maybe a little more emotion, a little more page time as to why it was such a huge barrier to him.
The ending discussion with his son was really well done, and the story resolution was very sweet. I enjoyed this book a lot.
August 20, 2017
This one wasn't my favorite, I just didn't really feel the pull between Roman and Mila. I mean, I was told it was there and the attraction was there, but I didn't really see Roman fall in love with her. I think there was just too much going on in the background with Tate and his issues in school and his mother. As well as Roman's mother, Belle, and her love life. Not to mention Mila's mother dropping her revelation about Mila's father. The story just felt too unfocused, so the love story was lost to me.
Despite all of that, I did love the humor in the book. Belle is such a fun character because of her unpredictability. I also loved to catch up with Sophie and Clay as well. This is a fun series and I do recommend it. I look forward to seeing what happens in the next book.
Despite all of that, I did love the humor in the book. Belle is such a fun character because of her unpredictability. I also loved to catch up with Sophie and Clay as well. This is a fun series and I do recommend it. I look forward to seeing what happens in the next book.
July 8, 2017
Loved this book we finally get the story of Wrangler Creeks bad boy Roman and Wrangler Creeks good girl Mila whom is a virgin and owns a bookstore way different from Roman.Roman is a single father to a teenage son Tate . He got his high school girlfriend pregnant whom is Mila's cousin. Mila has had a crush on Roman forever but he does not return her feelings. He thinks she is too good fir him and Roman has this crazy 3 date rule. Can Mila change his mind about this 3 date rule? Will the man she has loved for years finally return her feelings? You do not want to miss this book it was a quick read for me and I've enjoyed every book I've read by Delores Fossen
January 14, 2018
Branded as Trouble
Mila had loved Roman forever, even when he got her cousin pregnant. He refused to marry the cousin and raise his son himself. When his mother had a heart episode, and his son was found with a bottle of pills he rushed to the hospital along with the rest of his family. As he was getting the doctors report, he fainted. His appendix burst. So he, his estranged mother and his son all ended up in the same wars in the hospital. Mila, not to be left out, offered him her virginity....fun book....
Mila had loved Roman forever, even when he got her cousin pregnant. He refused to marry the cousin and raise his son himself. When his mother had a heart episode, and his son was found with a bottle of pills he rushed to the hospital along with the rest of his family. As he was getting the doctors report, he fainted. His appendix burst. So he, his estranged mother and his son all ended up in the same wars in the hospital. Mila, not to be left out, offered him her virginity....fun book....
November 3, 2017
Roman returns home to Wrangler's Creek even though he hates it. The fact that he would do anything for the betterment of his son was extremely sexy. Mila was a friend. Only a friend. But when Mila steps up and asks/demands that Roman rid her of her V-card, things start to change for him. I had a hard time putting this book down. I'm really hoping that there will be more books set in this town. The secondary characters are awesome!!!
August 13, 2018
This was a 3.5 story about Roman Granger and his thirteen year old son that he had raised since his high school girlfriend ran away right after Tate was born. Roman decided that relationships was not for him so he did not date any one girl more than three times in a row so they would not get the wrong idea about him. He did not know that a young woman by the name of Mila Banchini would turn his whole world upside down without him even knowing what hit him. Good read.
August 31, 2017
Talk about a steamy romance! 😱😱 I usually steer clear of "cowboy romance" novels, but I got Branded as Trouble by Delores Fossen in my monthly Reader's Service shipment. I was running low on my TBR pile and decided I would give it a shot. I am SOOOO glad I did. The rest of the Wrangler's Creek series is now on my TBR list.
September 1, 2020
This is a fast-paced romance with great characters and a lot of surprising twists and turns. The book zips along with plenty of romance and exciting scenes. There are several sub-plots with secondary characters which intertwine with the main characters, and I read rapidly, wondering how it would all turn out. Delores Fossen is one of my favorite authors!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews