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The Brands of Montana #3
Branded by the Cowboy
Easy-going cowboy and roping champion Ben Nichols is at loose ends while his best friend prepares for his wedding. Best man Ben must partner with the maid of honor–not a chore, even if the bride’s sister is as aloof as she is beautiful. Ben’s never backed down from a challenge, especially since this one has a clearly marked expiration date.
Ambitious golden girl and software tester Claire Brand is not acquainted with failure… until recently. Now, she needs to get through her sister’s wedding and back to Seattle before her family discovers her painful secrets. Her hot groomsman partner, who has temporary written all over him, offers the perfect distraction to get her through the next couple of weeks. Why not? It’s been a long time since Claire’s had some fun.
But then, love turns a short and steamy fling into something neither one of them is prepared for.
The Brands of Montana series
Book 1: Her Montana Brand
Book 2: The Cowboy's Brand
Book 3: Branded by The Cowboy
Previously titled Branded by Firelight
Ambitious golden girl and software tester Claire Brand is not acquainted with failure… until recently. Now, she needs to get through her sister’s wedding and back to Seattle before her family discovers her painful secrets. Her hot groomsman partner, who has temporary written all over him, offers the perfect distraction to get her through the next couple of weeks. Why not? It’s been a long time since Claire’s had some fun.
But then, love turns a short and steamy fling into something neither one of them is prepared for.
The Brands of Montana series
Book 1: Her Montana Brand
Book 2: The Cowboy's Brand
Book 3: Branded by The Cowboy
Previously titled Branded by Firelight
192 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 6, 2018
About the author
Paula Altenburg
32 books182 followersPaula Altenburg grew up in rural Nova Scotia knowing that at some point in her life she was likely to be a fiction writer. Swapping Louis L’Amour and Zane Grey books with her father guaranteed she wasn’t going to be the next Jane Austen, much to the dismay of her English teacher mother.
A degree in Social Anthropology from the University of King’s College and Dalhousie University in Halifax, Nova Scotia, again meant writing was the logical (meaning only) career path for her, although it did confirm her belief that learning is a life-long experience. She’s taken business courses, writing courses, and physiology of aquatic animals courses, all at the university level and all for fun.
She has worked in the Aerospace industry, although now makes writing her full-time career. Happily married, with two terrific sons, she continues to live in rural Nova Scotia but makes a point of traveling as much as she can.
She reads in all genres, but fantasy and contemporary romance are her writing loves.
A degree in Social Anthropology from the University of King’s College and Dalhousie University in Halifax, Nova Scotia, again meant writing was the logical (meaning only) career path for her, although it did confirm her belief that learning is a life-long experience. She’s taken business courses, writing courses, and physiology of aquatic animals courses, all at the university level and all for fun.
She has worked in the Aerospace industry, although now makes writing her full-time career. Happily married, with two terrific sons, she continues to live in rural Nova Scotia but makes a point of traveling as much as she can.
She reads in all genres, but fantasy and contemporary romance are her writing loves.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews
January 19, 2019
Branded by Firelight by Paula Altenburg is the third story in The Sweetheart Brand series, set in the small town of Sweetheart, Montana. It’s a poignant, lovely, slow burn romance between a woman with painful secrets and a man who gives her reason to trust again.
On the one year anniversary of giving up her daughter for adoption, Claire Brand is trying to keep it together for her sister’s wedding. She’d made the best choice possible for the baby but had kept the birth a secret from her family and only returned home for a few weeks. She’s at loose ends, with no job to return to, and no plans for her immediate future other than to get through one day at a time.
When best man Ben Nichols finds a clearly emotional Claire hiding out in her car during the wedding reception, he’s quick to offer her a shoulder for comfort. He’s attracted to her, but happy to stick with being friends to help get her over what’s bothering her. As they spend some time together their relationship becomes more involved though they are both upfront that it’s only going to last until Claire leaves town. It’s Ben who comes to the realization first that he wants Claire for a lifelong partner, not just a fling. Can he convince her to put her heart on the line and give him a chance?
This is my first time reading this author, and I really enjoyed her writing style. Her characters felt very realistic, likable and honest. Though the story starts with Claire still grieving the choices she felt she had to make, Ben’s willingness to offer her comfort without pressing for details sets the stage for a real friendship to go along with their attraction to each other. They don’t just hop into bed with each other but get to know each other first, and it makes their love scenes more meaningful and intimate.
Ben has a complicated relationship with his mother, who left his father and him behind when he was young yet still wants to be part of his life. Claire worries about how he will feel about her when he finds out that she gave her child up for adoption. She also worries about what her family will think when they find out she had a baby and didn’t tell them. The conflict is fairly predictable but doesn’t evolve into any over the top drama. Everything comes together in the end with a happy ending for the couple, and a really sweet epilogue. Watching Claire open her heart up to Ben, who is a real sweetheart of a hero definitely makes this book worth the read. I’m looking forward to catching up on the series.
This review also appears at Harlequin Junkie: http://harlequinjunkie.com/review-bra...
A copy of this story was provided by the publisher via NetGalley for review.
On the one year anniversary of giving up her daughter for adoption, Claire Brand is trying to keep it together for her sister’s wedding. She’d made the best choice possible for the baby but had kept the birth a secret from her family and only returned home for a few weeks. She’s at loose ends, with no job to return to, and no plans for her immediate future other than to get through one day at a time.
When best man Ben Nichols finds a clearly emotional Claire hiding out in her car during the wedding reception, he’s quick to offer her a shoulder for comfort. He’s attracted to her, but happy to stick with being friends to help get her over what’s bothering her. As they spend some time together their relationship becomes more involved though they are both upfront that it’s only going to last until Claire leaves town. It’s Ben who comes to the realization first that he wants Claire for a lifelong partner, not just a fling. Can he convince her to put her heart on the line and give him a chance?
This is my first time reading this author, and I really enjoyed her writing style. Her characters felt very realistic, likable and honest. Though the story starts with Claire still grieving the choices she felt she had to make, Ben’s willingness to offer her comfort without pressing for details sets the stage for a real friendship to go along with their attraction to each other. They don’t just hop into bed with each other but get to know each other first, and it makes their love scenes more meaningful and intimate.
Ben has a complicated relationship with his mother, who left his father and him behind when he was young yet still wants to be part of his life. Claire worries about how he will feel about her when he finds out that she gave her child up for adoption. She also worries about what her family will think when they find out she had a baby and didn’t tell them. The conflict is fairly predictable but doesn’t evolve into any over the top drama. Everything comes together in the end with a happy ending for the couple, and a really sweet epilogue. Watching Claire open her heart up to Ben, who is a real sweetheart of a hero definitely makes this book worth the read. I’m looking forward to catching up on the series.
This review also appears at Harlequin Junkie: http://harlequinjunkie.com/review-bra...
A copy of this story was provided by the publisher via NetGalley for review.
January 10, 2018
This was a great story, there's some heavy emotion couched into these pages; along with some of the best dialogue I've read in a while. Ben and Claire were great together. The banter was hilarious and while these two had their own issues they seemed to just go in tandem with each other.
Claire is the golden child in her family, the intelligent, successful and beautiful sister who is living in Seattle and return to Sweetheart for her sisters wedding. She's maid of honor paired up with Ben. Ben being the best friend of the groom, and all around non committal "I'm all for fun" man. Claire may be bright, but Ben's got some kind of crazy radar when it comes to Claire and he senses things are off with her right from the beginning. He tries to figure it out, but she's got so many pieces to the puzzle and he's lost. What he does though, what they do is become friends, then friends with a little on the side and through many a good laugh, out of that comes some answers to some of their problems. Except the big one Claire keeps tied so tight no one will find out. Until by accident Ben does. We see the whole family again in this book. I loved the characters and will go back and read the first two!
This book has it all, great plot, two great characters, some steam and chemistry and love. A family who loves hard and fully. Doesn't get much better than that.
**arc from NetGalley and Tule Publishing**
**I voluntarily read an advanced copy of this book for review. The above is my honest review and the opinions therein are my own**
Claire is the golden child in her family, the intelligent, successful and beautiful sister who is living in Seattle and return to Sweetheart for her sisters wedding. She's maid of honor paired up with Ben. Ben being the best friend of the groom, and all around non committal "I'm all for fun" man. Claire may be bright, but Ben's got some kind of crazy radar when it comes to Claire and he senses things are off with her right from the beginning. He tries to figure it out, but she's got so many pieces to the puzzle and he's lost. What he does though, what they do is become friends, then friends with a little on the side and through many a good laugh, out of that comes some answers to some of their problems. Except the big one Claire keeps tied so tight no one will find out. Until by accident Ben does. We see the whole family again in this book. I loved the characters and will go back and read the first two!
This book has it all, great plot, two great characters, some steam and chemistry and love. A family who loves hard and fully. Doesn't get much better than that.
**arc from NetGalley and Tule Publishing**
**I voluntarily read an advanced copy of this book for review. The above is my honest review and the opinions therein are my own**
February 14, 2018
This is one heck of an emotional rollercoaster read and one that I’ll really try not to reveal any spoilers about! It takes a journey through the full gamut of emotions from heartbreak to HEA romance. Set in Cherry Lake, Montana, the star features of this novel are the superb dialogue and how the characters are brought to life in the imagination of the reader thanks to the skilled wordcraft of this talented author.
It is a lively, engaging and steamy romance which is complemented by the caring, thoughtful aspects of the developing and existing relationships. It is a story of returning home anxious to keep secrets hidden whilst still traumatised by them . . . . A story of facing the consequences of your decisions with regret and heartbreak, making you reluctant to move on into the future or to trust anyone to support your attempts to do so.
It isn’t all heavy, there’s plenty of banter and humour interspersed throughout the story and the ending is endearing. I admit that I struggled to empathise with Claire initially but as more of her recent past is revealed her actions and reactions become more understandable and relatable. Ben is usually sympathetic to her but then he shows another side to his character, which had me unsettled at times. The two together are explosive and you keep hoping that, in the end, things will work out well for them but you just know there will be fireworks en route!
I requested and received a copy of this novel. This is my honest review after choosing to read it.
It is a lively, engaging and steamy romance which is complemented by the caring, thoughtful aspects of the developing and existing relationships. It is a story of returning home anxious to keep secrets hidden whilst still traumatised by them . . . . A story of facing the consequences of your decisions with regret and heartbreak, making you reluctant to move on into the future or to trust anyone to support your attempts to do so.
It isn’t all heavy, there’s plenty of banter and humour interspersed throughout the story and the ending is endearing. I admit that I struggled to empathise with Claire initially but as more of her recent past is revealed her actions and reactions become more understandable and relatable. Ben is usually sympathetic to her but then he shows another side to his character, which had me unsettled at times. The two together are explosive and you keep hoping that, in the end, things will work out well for them but you just know there will be fireworks en route!
I requested and received a copy of this novel. This is my honest review after choosing to read it.
March 14, 2018
Rcvd an ARC at no cost to author. (netgalley). This was a sweet heartbreaking book. I did not realize that this was a series when I requested it, and come to find out that this is the third in series and I hate that, because now I have to go back and read the others. You will not feel lost because the author familiarizes you with each individual and you can kind of figure out who had a story and who is getting one. We have Ben, the groomsman for the groom and Claire, bridesmaid for the bride and also her sister. They have known each other before but just a passing knowledge, after the wedding is when they spend time and really get to know each other and it is sweet how they begin and thru out book, I wont go into any more details so that you can read and Enjoy!
August 29, 2026
I really enjoyed this book. Can’t remember when I have read one that I thought was any better.
Except from one of my favorite Authors “Bobby Underwood” who I highly recommend.
Except from one of my favorite Authors “Bobby Underwood” who I highly recommend.
April 19, 2018
I have always appreciate books with strong heroine, good chemistry and nice dialogue. this book fits the bill perfectly.
A sweet book that has medium heat. Something I will recommend to my conservative friends. Sweet courtship, nice dialogue, an appropriate amount of heat and loads of chemistry. No gratuitous sex, no three way, no public fondling, no cheating, and nobody dies.....I know, after reading a series of dark murderous books that blood dripping off the pages, I am so glad that no one dies, and no one had gotten physically hurt.
I will read more books from this author, yes, I will.
A sweet book that has medium heat. Something I will recommend to my conservative friends. Sweet courtship, nice dialogue, an appropriate amount of heat and loads of chemistry. No gratuitous sex, no three way, no public fondling, no cheating, and nobody dies.....I know, after reading a series of dark murderous books that blood dripping off the pages, I am so glad that no one dies, and no one had gotten physically hurt.
I will read more books from this author, yes, I will.
February 14, 2018
I loved this smart, emotional, romantic read!
February 25, 2018
Reviewed at Keeper Bookshelf
Branded by Firelight packs a few emotional punches. It will be difficult to walk away from Ben and Claire’s story without a few touching, emotional moments. Returning home for her sister’s wedding should have been a joyful occasion It is for most of the family, but for Claire it’s more of a happy for her sister but ‘please don’t guess the secret I’m holding close to my heart’ tightrope to walk for the next few weeks. Perhaps the hot and handsome best man could provide a distraction, he certainly has temporary written all over that cowboy – and that is exactly what Claire needs right now. Temporary, a cover, and a way to get through until she can return to Seattle hopefully with her secrets still intact. Only love doesn’t quite work that way.
Ben is happy for his friend, but forever is a concept that just isn’t for him. Or at least he felt that way until Claire got herself deeply embedded in his heart. Their relationship was supposed to be a fun fling, a just for the wedding good time. And that worked until he got to know her better. She was hurting, hiding something and he couldn’t understand why her family wasn’t picking up on that. Well, everyone’s entitled to their secrets except when Ben believes he is the answer that could help this lovely, brave lady. Neither had expected love to come into the relationship – so now what do they do?
Branded by Firelight is that unexpected combination of fun, flirty bantering and some serious emotional dealings. Ben and Claire worked so well as a couple. The one liners flew fast, the bantering felt completely natural and it shouldn’t have surprised anyone that these two would fall in love. There are touching, emotional moments that will break your heart, then heal it back up again. For two people who only wanted temporary, Ben and Claire certainly got the surprise of a lifetime. Loved their story and would highly recommend it and the entire series.
*I received an e-ARC of this novel from the publisher via NetGalley. That does not change what I think of this story. It is my choice to leave a review giving my personal opinion about this book.*
Branded by Firelight packs a few emotional punches. It will be difficult to walk away from Ben and Claire’s story without a few touching, emotional moments. Returning home for her sister’s wedding should have been a joyful occasion It is for most of the family, but for Claire it’s more of a happy for her sister but ‘please don’t guess the secret I’m holding close to my heart’ tightrope to walk for the next few weeks. Perhaps the hot and handsome best man could provide a distraction, he certainly has temporary written all over that cowboy – and that is exactly what Claire needs right now. Temporary, a cover, and a way to get through until she can return to Seattle hopefully with her secrets still intact. Only love doesn’t quite work that way.
Ben is happy for his friend, but forever is a concept that just isn’t for him. Or at least he felt that way until Claire got herself deeply embedded in his heart. Their relationship was supposed to be a fun fling, a just for the wedding good time. And that worked until he got to know her better. She was hurting, hiding something and he couldn’t understand why her family wasn’t picking up on that. Well, everyone’s entitled to their secrets except when Ben believes he is the answer that could help this lovely, brave lady. Neither had expected love to come into the relationship – so now what do they do?
Branded by Firelight is that unexpected combination of fun, flirty bantering and some serious emotional dealings. Ben and Claire worked so well as a couple. The one liners flew fast, the bantering felt completely natural and it shouldn’t have surprised anyone that these two would fall in love. There are touching, emotional moments that will break your heart, then heal it back up again. For two people who only wanted temporary, Ben and Claire certainly got the surprise of a lifetime. Loved their story and would highly recommend it and the entire series.
*I received an e-ARC of this novel from the publisher via NetGalley. That does not change what I think of this story. It is my choice to leave a review giving my personal opinion about this book.*
January 9, 2018
A sweet romance that grabs at your heart just a little. Claire you just want to hug and tell her its okay while reading this. Ben is hot. They sizzle together. They just feel natural together. Sometimes going home is what you didn't know you needed to heal. That is what Claire does and the added relationship between her and Ben is bonus. This was a first book of Paula Altenburg for me and I highly enjoyed it. I plan on going back and starting this series from the beginning because Branded by Firelight was such a good read. I couldn't put this one down.
February 6, 2018
Branded by Firelight by Paula Altenburg is a lively, steamy story that has a thoughtful side too. There is plenty of emotional baggage for the two main characters attending the main event, a wedding.
Claire comes home for her sister’s wedding, only to face one of her biggest heartbreaks. Ben is the best man, he’s funny, determined, but also a serial dater. He has some colorful lines that border on snarky, rare for a male main character. However, this cowboy pulls it off. The story supporting characters are wonderful rounding this story of love and family. Branded by Firelight is part of a series but reads well as a stand-alone..
The publisher through Net Galley provided a copy.
Claire comes home for her sister’s wedding, only to face one of her biggest heartbreaks. Ben is the best man, he’s funny, determined, but also a serial dater. He has some colorful lines that border on snarky, rare for a male main character. However, this cowboy pulls it off. The story supporting characters are wonderful rounding this story of love and family. Branded by Firelight is part of a series but reads well as a stand-alone..
The publisher through Net Galley provided a copy.
February 6, 2018
Loved this book! It's a fast paced contemporary romance with depth. Claire's back story made for a much richer novel that hooked me from the very first page. Ben is the ultimate playboy who lives life for a good time, not a long time, so Claire is stunned when he is the one to help her during a bad time. Thus begun an uneasy friendship with lots of undertones and angst... The author made me feel invested in the characters and care about their lives.
If you enjoy the genre, you will love this book. I've only recently found this author and adore her books. This one is a must read, and if she's new to you (like me), join me in working my way through her back list.
If you enjoy the genre, you will love this book. I've only recently found this author and adore her books. This one is a must read, and if she's new to you (like me), join me in working my way through her back list.
February 4, 2018
I absolutely loved this story. It's witty, sexy, and tons of fun to read. The author brought Ben and Claire to life for me. Using humor and leaning on each other they both work through some very emotional issues they each face. Before either of them realizes it, their short temporary fling starts to feel like a whole lot more.
This is a wonderfully done book and one I recommend to everyone.
This is a wonderfully done book and one I recommend to everyone.
February 6, 2018
Trigger warnings: adoption, child abandonment
This is the third in the series, and I haven’t read the previous two. It worked fine for me as a standalone, though I suspect I’d have gotten a lot more out of the secondary characters if I’d read the rest of the series. I’m honestly not that big of a fan of cowboy romances, but this was so sweet that I couldn’t help liking Ben. I was initially intrigued that Claire was in IT, though there’s actually not that much about it in the book, other than some Bill Gates jokes and as an explanation for why she can work remotely.
Claire is only back in her hometown for her sister’s wedding, and then she’s leaving. So the bristly encounter with handsome groomsmen Ben doesn’t mean anything, until her mother’s health scare has her staying longer than intended. Ben’s a commitment-phobe, and has a “love-em-and-leave-em” reputation, but women can’t seem to resist his hot cowboy-ness. While this could verge into annoying trope territory, Ben is unabashedly honest about his flirting, and it was really refreshing and cute.
The banter between Claire and Ben was my favorite part of the book. By turns hilarious, endearing, and heart-wrenching, it was so much fun watching their relationship develop. They bond over guy movies, riding lessons, paintball, and hikes, and it was just so sweet. Ben senses almost immediately that something’s off about Claire, that something has broken her, and he’s intrigued enough to become friends with her, then friends-with-benefits (kinda, the subject of a particularly funny conversation), and then finally, something more. Both characters were shaped, and in some ways, scarred, from their past experiences, and at some points I truly wondered how they would be able to reconcile them with their feelings for each other. Charmingly enough, they both bring out the best in each other, and Claire learns about the terrible pressure of keeping secrets, and Ben learns about the power of forgiveness.
Overall, this was a lovely, heart-wrenching romance, that left me feeling all warm and fuzzy after reading it. Definitely recommended, especially if you like cowboys!
I received this book for free from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
This is the third in the series, and I haven’t read the previous two. It worked fine for me as a standalone, though I suspect I’d have gotten a lot more out of the secondary characters if I’d read the rest of the series. I’m honestly not that big of a fan of cowboy romances, but this was so sweet that I couldn’t help liking Ben. I was initially intrigued that Claire was in IT, though there’s actually not that much about it in the book, other than some Bill Gates jokes and as an explanation for why she can work remotely.
Claire is only back in her hometown for her sister’s wedding, and then she’s leaving. So the bristly encounter with handsome groomsmen Ben doesn’t mean anything, until her mother’s health scare has her staying longer than intended. Ben’s a commitment-phobe, and has a “love-em-and-leave-em” reputation, but women can’t seem to resist his hot cowboy-ness. While this could verge into annoying trope territory, Ben is unabashedly honest about his flirting, and it was really refreshing and cute.
“He cut a glance sideways at her. ‘I’d like it very much if you stayed for the winter. I’ve got a brand-new library card to break in and could use literary advice from someone who’s smart.’”
The banter between Claire and Ben was my favorite part of the book. By turns hilarious, endearing, and heart-wrenching, it was so much fun watching their relationship develop. They bond over guy movies, riding lessons, paintball, and hikes, and it was just so sweet. Ben senses almost immediately that something’s off about Claire, that something has broken her, and he’s intrigued enough to become friends with her, then friends-with-benefits (kinda, the subject of a particularly funny conversation), and then finally, something more. Both characters were shaped, and in some ways, scarred, from their past experiences, and at some points I truly wondered how they would be able to reconcile them with their feelings for each other. Charmingly enough, they both bring out the best in each other, and Claire learns about the terrible pressure of keeping secrets, and Ben learns about the power of forgiveness.
Overall, this was a lovely, heart-wrenching romance, that left me feeling all warm and fuzzy after reading it. Definitely recommended, especially if you like cowboys!
I received this book for free from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
February 22, 2018
This is a quick read with lots of romance. Claire has a secret from her past that is preventing her from finding love and keeping her distance from her family. The storyline will tug at your heartstrings and find yourself hoping Claire finds peace and happiness in love.
January 24, 2018
On the day of her sister’s wedding, Claire rand escapes to her car, riddles with emotion overflowing and removing the joy from the day. A year prior she gave up her infant daughter for adoption and seeing her birthday pictures is too much to bear. Ben Nichols finds her sitting alone and her sad, miserable state ignites a curiosity in him to uncover the truth behind it and the sadness that lurks in her eyes. Ben has his own demons to conquer when his long absent deserting mother shows up out of the blue and several years too late.
Branded by Firelight is a tender story of two people finding ehat they need in each other of of filling the empty spaces In their hearts.
Branded by Firelight is a tender story of two people finding ehat they need in each other of of filling the empty spaces In their hearts.
January 20, 2018
Branded By Firelight is the third book in the Sweetheart Brand Series. I had not read the previous two works but I still enjoyed this story. It does well as a stand alone novel, but I believe you would enjoy it more if you read "Her Sweetheart Brand" and "Branded With A Kiss" first. I found Paula's writing to be very entertaining. I enjoy a series when former characters are part of the new book. Even though Ben Nichols and Claire Brand are the main characters, many members of their families make an appearance. Ben has a reputation to over come and Claire has a tragic former relationship she's trying to heal from. It is much more than a second chance romance. The story line and growth by both characters was interesting and entertaining. Ben's one liners and the banter between them keeps you smiling. The chemistry and steam between them is very intense. I volunteered to read and review an ARC from Net Galley and Tule Publishers.
January 20, 2018
I voluntarily readied a advanced reader’s copy of this book.
Branded by Firelight by Paula Altenburg, book three in A Sweetheart Brand series. A great addition to the series. I enjoyed reading about Claire and Ben. Both had their own past issues that they had to work though. I loved their character development, dialogue and the storyline. I look forward to read more books in this series and more by this author.
Branded by Firelight by Paula Altenburg, book three in A Sweetheart Brand series. A great addition to the series. I enjoyed reading about Claire and Ben. Both had their own past issues that they had to work though. I loved their character development, dialogue and the storyline. I look forward to read more books in this series and more by this author.
February 26, 2018
I loved this story! Branded by Firelight is a gorgeous contemporary western with a nice blend of sexy and a hefty dose of sweet.
It was easy to fall for both Claire and Ben. Both are beautifully rounded and believable characters with just enough flaws to make them real and just enough personality to make them likeable.
This story is really well paced with a nice balance between the blossoming friends-with-benefits-for-the-time-being relationship between Ben and Claire and their back stories, which were dribbled in beautifully throughout. I knew how the story would end, of course I did, but the journey kept me on my toes throughout.
It was easy to fall for both Claire and Ben. Both are beautifully rounded and believable characters with just enough flaws to make them real and just enough personality to make them likeable.
This story is really well paced with a nice balance between the blossoming friends-with-benefits-for-the-time-being relationship between Ben and Claire and their back stories, which were dribbled in beautifully throughout. I knew how the story would end, of course I did, but the journey kept me on my toes throughout.
January 13, 2018
Sometimes I wonder about Ben he could be sweet, but then ruins it by being a smarty pants, “the clock’s ticking, babe. And, as I told you before, I’m not going to judge,”he said. “At least not out loud.” There are times Ben does things to make his girl happy, “remember how you said you’d go parking with me if I could find a place where I’d never taken another girl?” He swept a hand at the view from the windshield. Above the tops of the ponderosa pine trees soared the Mission Range. “Here we are.” I liked this book, I liked Ben with Claire.
February 6, 2018
This is the first book I’ve read by this author and although it is the third in the series I was able to follow the storyline. I loved Claire and Ben they both had issues that they needed to work through that were heartbreaking. I loved how their relationship developed and I was rooting for them from the beginning, reading this had made me excited to read the other books in the series (old and new) A lovely heartbreakingly beautiful read .
#BrandedByFirelight #NetGalley
#BrandedByFirelight #NetGalley
January 11, 2018
Girls this Ben is one fine and sexy cowboy! Oh yes I for one am so happy that our author waited for Patterson and Alayna to hold their wedding so we could get this really GOOD Book out of our author. WoW, Claire was always the clear headed sibling next to Damon so what comes out in this book is surprising but then again on the other hand it is really not so surprising at all.
Paula Altenburg tells a story of heartbreak that can only come from a true love. And that is not the romance kind of love, but a love that is born deep, down in your soul. One that grows with each and every day as a child develops within you. Then you have to do what is best for this other person. This book had me thinking long and hard about myself and how lucky I was in my own life.
Then we have this rough but giving cowboy Ben, who seems to be in tune with Claire. Who in the world would think that the serial dater would fall for Damon's sister? Or are they just friends? Cherry Lake has quickly become my second favorite little town in Montana and I invite you to come find out why.
By the way you do not have to read books 1-2 of The Sweetheat Brand Books to enjoy this book but I highly recommend them (wink)
Paula Altenburg tells a story of heartbreak that can only come from a true love. And that is not the romance kind of love, but a love that is born deep, down in your soul. One that grows with each and every day as a child develops within you. Then you have to do what is best for this other person. This book had me thinking long and hard about myself and how lucky I was in my own life.
Then we have this rough but giving cowboy Ben, who seems to be in tune with Claire. Who in the world would think that the serial dater would fall for Damon's sister? Or are they just friends? Cherry Lake has quickly become my second favorite little town in Montana and I invite you to come find out why.
By the way you do not have to read books 1-2 of The Sweetheat Brand Books to enjoy this book but I highly recommend them (wink)
January 5, 2018
Not having read anything by this author prior to this story, and not knowing what to expect, I was pleasantly blown away by the humorous and extremely smart dialog...why she'd not been on my radar before now is a puzzle that won't carry forward. The personalities of her characters brought them from 2D on the page to 3D in my mind's eye...there was exceptional realism in each and every page of this story.
Ben and Claire had a natural way about them that made their story so enjoyable. Their interactions never stopped being entertaining, with their witty banter and Ben's hilarious one liners, there was page after of laughter, and even tears a time or two. Being able to swing the emotional pendulum so far each way just demonstrated to me the depth of this author's writing perfection. I look forward to reading more from Ms Altenburg in the future.
This ARC book was complimentary, provided by the Publisher and NetGalley. I am voluntarily providing my honest review.
Ben and Claire had a natural way about them that made their story so enjoyable. Their interactions never stopped being entertaining, with their witty banter and Ben's hilarious one liners, there was page after of laughter, and even tears a time or two. Being able to swing the emotional pendulum so far each way just demonstrated to me the depth of this author's writing perfection. I look forward to reading more from Ms Altenburg in the future.
This ARC book was complimentary, provided by the Publisher and NetGalley. I am voluntarily providing my honest review.
April 26, 2023
I didn't want to say goodbye!
"Branded by the Cowboy" is the third book in Paula Altenburg's series The Brands of Montana. This book is my favorite thus far in the series mainly because I I immediately recognized a kindred spirit in Claire Brand. In telling Claire's story, Paula elevates Claire from a minor support character into a leading lady role. Claire becomes a three dimensional woman with all the emotions and foibles I have come to expect from Paula Altenburg's character development. And if I didn't know better, Paula Altenburg plucked Claire from the pages of my diary! Every thought, every emotion, and every word from Claire's mouth, echoed within me. It was a spiritual healing experience to read Claire's transformation from wary and untrusting to a self-aware loving, forgiving woman. Paula Altenburg's character development of Claire Brand was a thing of beauty. I never wanted the story to end!
Pairing Claire with Ben Nichols, Patterson's Campbell's easy-going somewhat goofy best friend was a stroke of genius. It was another reminder to "never judge a book by it's cover". I would never have thought that their relationship would work. Yet, as Paula worked her magic word craft, Ben became a different man than I first expected. Beneath the charming, sweet -tongued, playboy exterior, Ben hid a hurt misunderstood man, longing to be loved completely for himself. Again, the character development that Paula Altenburg, weaved throughout the story was masterfully done.
The dialogue in this book was witty, and snarky one moment, and deep, emotional, lovingly tender the next. Sparks flew whenever Ben and Claire interacted. It seemed so real it was as though I had a front row seat as their lives played out in front of me. As I sat in my favorite rocking chair with my dogs at my feet, I disappeared completely into this novel. I left my reality behind and was immersed completely into Claire and Ben's world. Which is exactly what I hope will happen whenever I read a book.
I never wanted to put this book down. Yet, the world continues to spin on its axis, and eventually life rears its head and demands I pay attention. So reluctantly I said goodbye to Ben and Claire and returned to my world with the dirty dishes in the sink and other demands on my time. I hope this is not the last I have heard from The Brands from Montana. I found the Brand family to be a entertaining bunch. I really didn't want to say goodbye!
"Branded by the Cowboy" is the third book in Paula Altenburg's series The Brands of Montana. This book is my favorite thus far in the series mainly because I I immediately recognized a kindred spirit in Claire Brand. In telling Claire's story, Paula elevates Claire from a minor support character into a leading lady role. Claire becomes a three dimensional woman with all the emotions and foibles I have come to expect from Paula Altenburg's character development. And if I didn't know better, Paula Altenburg plucked Claire from the pages of my diary! Every thought, every emotion, and every word from Claire's mouth, echoed within me. It was a spiritual healing experience to read Claire's transformation from wary and untrusting to a self-aware loving, forgiving woman. Paula Altenburg's character development of Claire Brand was a thing of beauty. I never wanted the story to end!
Pairing Claire with Ben Nichols, Patterson's Campbell's easy-going somewhat goofy best friend was a stroke of genius. It was another reminder to "never judge a book by it's cover". I would never have thought that their relationship would work. Yet, as Paula worked her magic word craft, Ben became a different man than I first expected. Beneath the charming, sweet -tongued, playboy exterior, Ben hid a hurt misunderstood man, longing to be loved completely for himself. Again, the character development that Paula Altenburg, weaved throughout the story was masterfully done.
The dialogue in this book was witty, and snarky one moment, and deep, emotional, lovingly tender the next. Sparks flew whenever Ben and Claire interacted. It seemed so real it was as though I had a front row seat as their lives played out in front of me. As I sat in my favorite rocking chair with my dogs at my feet, I disappeared completely into this novel. I left my reality behind and was immersed completely into Claire and Ben's world. Which is exactly what I hope will happen whenever I read a book.
I never wanted to put this book down. Yet, the world continues to spin on its axis, and eventually life rears its head and demands I pay attention. So reluctantly I said goodbye to Ben and Claire and returned to my world with the dirty dishes in the sink and other demands on my time. I hope this is not the last I have heard from The Brands from Montana. I found the Brand family to be a entertaining bunch. I really didn't want to say goodbye!
March 10, 2018
Branded by Firelight by Paula Altenburg
Easy-going cowboy and roping champion Ben Nichols is at loose ends while his best friend prepares for his wedding. Best man Ben must partner with the maid of honor–not a chore, even if the bride’s sister is as aloof as she is beautiful. Ben’s never backed down from a challenge, especially since this one has a clearly marked expiration date.
Ambitious golden girl and software tester Claire Brand is not acquainted with failure… until recently. Now, she needs to get through her sister’s wedding and back to Seattle before her family discovers her painful secrets. Her hot groomsman partner, who has temporary written all over him, offers the perfect distraction to get her through the next couple of weeks. Why not? It’s been a long time since Claire’s had some fun.
But then, love turns a short and steamy fling into something neither one of them is prepared for.
this is Ben Nichols and Claire Brand's story.
Claire Brand sat in her car in the parking lot of the Bar-No Sweetheart Ranch, swilling beer from a bottle and staring at the stars. The panoramic view might be astounding, but October nights in Sweetheart, Montana were cold and her peach-colored, slim-fitting, one-sleeved satin bridesmaid dress hadn’t been crafted with that in mind.
Her new brother-in-law Patterson had refused to get married before Alayna’s twenty-fifth birthday, and Alayna had refused to wait a single day longer than she had to.
The passenger door opened and Patterson’s best man slid into her car, the six-plus feet of him sucking up any extra room in the compact space.
He slammed the door behind him, then looked at the bottle in her hand. One eyebrow arced up. “If I’d known this was BYOB, I’d have brought my drink with me.”
Ben Nichols hadn’t changed much since high school.
Branded by Firelight by Paula Altenburg is a 3 star book.
"I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book."
Paula's Books with Tule:
Her Sweetheart Brand
A Sweetheart Brand
Starrs of Sweetheart, Montana
Branded with a Kiss
A Sweetheart Brand
Branded by Firelight by Paula Altenburg
Easy-going cowboy and roping champion Ben Nichols is at loose ends while his best friend prepares for his wedding. Best man Ben must partner with the maid of honor–not a chore, even if the bride’s sister is as aloof as she is beautiful. Ben’s never backed down from a challenge, especially since this one has a clearly marked expiration date.
Ambitious golden girl and software tester Claire Brand is not acquainted with failure… until recently. Now, she needs to get through her sister’s wedding and back to Seattle before her family discovers her painful secrets. Her hot groomsman partner, who has temporary written all over him, offers the perfect distraction to get her through the next couple of weeks. Why not? It’s been a long time since Claire’s had some fun.
But then, love turns a short and steamy fling into something neither one of them is prepared for.
this is Ben Nichols and Claire Brand's story.
Claire Brand sat in her car in the parking lot of the Bar-No Sweetheart Ranch, swilling beer from a bottle and staring at the stars. The panoramic view might be astounding, but October nights in Sweetheart, Montana were cold and her peach-colored, slim-fitting, one-sleeved satin bridesmaid dress hadn’t been crafted with that in mind.
Her new brother-in-law Patterson had refused to get married before Alayna’s twenty-fifth birthday, and Alayna had refused to wait a single day longer than she had to.
The passenger door opened and Patterson’s best man slid into her car, the six-plus feet of him sucking up any extra room in the compact space.
He slammed the door behind him, then looked at the bottle in her hand. One eyebrow arced up. “If I’d known this was BYOB, I’d have brought my drink with me.”
Ben Nichols hadn’t changed much since high school.
Branded by Firelight by Paula Altenburg is a 3 star book.
"I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book."
Paula's Books with Tule:
Her Sweetheart Brand
A Sweetheart Brand
Starrs of Sweetheart, Montana
Branded with a Kiss
A Sweetheart Brand
Branded by Firelight by Paula Altenburg
March 2, 2025
3.5 STARS - ROUNDED UP.
I didn't read the 2 previous stories and wasn't lost, so it is a standalone. Does have crossover characters so if you want to know more background, you may want to start at the beginning.
The H sleeps with anything he can get his hands on. His longest relationship was 2 months so his character with women, had me not caring for him, until the book was almost over.
The h had a relationship with a married man, but she didn't know he was married, with children. You discover her secret right away. She's given up her baby for adoption, in case a trigger for some.
Lovemaking outside of marriage, heat level 5 out of 5 and described several times. Parts of their relationship I liked, especially near the end. But I wasn't warm and fuzzy with them, because it was to be just causal sex - friends with benefits. This isn't one of my favorite troupes.
No cheating for our MC but another secondary character cheated years prior to story, rough road to HEA, little on romance, and plenty of spice. I did enjoy the epilogue a couple years in the future. (ljb)
I didn't read the 2 previous stories and wasn't lost, so it is a standalone. Does have crossover characters so if you want to know more background, you may want to start at the beginning.
The H sleeps with anything he can get his hands on. His longest relationship was 2 months so his character with women, had me not caring for him, until the book was almost over.
The h had a relationship with a married man, but she didn't know he was married, with children. You discover her secret right away. She's given up her baby for adoption, in case a trigger for some.
Lovemaking outside of marriage, heat level 5 out of 5 and described several times. Parts of their relationship I liked, especially near the end. But I wasn't warm and fuzzy with them, because it was to be just causal sex - friends with benefits. This isn't one of my favorite troupes.
No cheating for our MC but another secondary character cheated years prior to story, rough road to HEA, little on romance, and plenty of spice. I did enjoy the epilogue a couple years in the future. (ljb)
August 19, 2018
Claire and Ben are an awesome pair!
This fun sexy story is sweet honest and tender, with fun dialogue and story events, a great cast of characters, and a soulful plot. Who can’t identify with Claire and Ben’s struggles as they show each other a side of themselves they’ve never shared with anyone before.
This fun sexy story is sweet honest and tender, with fun dialogue and story events, a great cast of characters, and a soulful plot. Who can’t identify with Claire and Ben’s struggles as they show each other a side of themselves they’ve never shared with anyone before.
February 22, 2025
My interest picked up in the first two chapters.
The book brings out the deep feelings that come with decisions that you're not sure were right. You feel the sadness and memories that are still hurting . Finding a peace and forgiveness can be devastating. This is an excellent book.
The book brings out the deep feelings that come with decisions that you're not sure were right. You feel the sadness and memories that are still hurting . Finding a peace and forgiveness can be devastating. This is an excellent book.
February 10, 2025
branded by the Cowboy
Awesome. That's all I can say.
But I guess I'll have to think of something. Story great. Characters great. Writing great.
Not too sappy or too dramatic or too sex filled. Just right. Really enjoyable read.
Awesome. That's all I can say.
But I guess I'll have to think of something. Story great. Characters great. Writing great.
Not too sappy or too dramatic or too sex filled. Just right. Really enjoyable read.
February 20, 2025
Branded by the Cowboy
My first read written by Paula Altenburg. I would gladly read another book written by her. She has a wonderful sense of humor woven into her story. Her characters are easy to like.
My first read written by Paula Altenburg. I would gladly read another book written by her. She has a wonderful sense of humor woven into her story. Her characters are easy to like.
May 17, 2025
Branded by the Cowboy
The development of the characters throughout this series has been fascinating to experience. Each book is a standalone and each written with its own unique plot.
The development of the characters throughout this series has been fascinating to experience. Each book is a standalone and each written with its own unique plot.
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