The Rancher's Redemption

Return of the Blackwell Brothers #3

by Melinda Curtis

His family committed a terrible wrong... Ben Blackwell wants to make it right.

The last time Ben Blackwell saw Rachel Thompson was when her best friend left him at the altar. Now she’s suing the Blackwells over river water rights. Rachel’s a triple threat — rancher, fellow attorney and single mum — and Ben’s plan to win in court hits a snag when mutual attraction blooms. If he divulges a long-held secret, will his family forgive him? Will Rachel?

Genres: Romance, Contemporary, Harlequin Heartwarming, Clean Romance, Harlequin, Contemporary Romance

257 pages, Kindle Edition

Published November 1, 2018

About the author

Prior to writing romance, award-winning, USA Today Bestseller Melinda Curtis was a junior manager for a Fortune 500 company, which meant when she flew on the private jet she was relegated to the jump seat—otherwise known as the potty. After grabbing her pen (and a parachute) she made the jump to full-time writer. Between writing sweet romance and sweet romantic comedy, Melinda finds time to bond with her husband over home remodeling projects. She recently came to grips with the fact that she’s an empty nester and a grandma, concepts easier to grasp than jet-setting on a potty.

Sign up for her newsletter on her website to receive two free reads.

Reviews

[Susan · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Rancher's Redemption

Melinda Curtis


THE RANCHER'S REDEMPTION is the story of Rachel who's family ranch is next door to the Blackwell Ranch. Ben Blackwell, is back on the ranch after running away the night he was left standing at the alter! His ex fiancé married Ben's grandfather, Big E! Hold on people, it's going to be a very bumpy but funny ride! Even though THE RANCHER'S REDEMPTION can be read as a standalone, I would read them all in order so you do not miss a thing!


THE RANCHER'S REDEMPTION is the third book in the Return of the Blackwell Brothers series. All of the books are written by different authors and I can't wait to continue this series. Melinda Curtis writes about characters that become real right before your eyes. All of the characters are very interesting and believable, so much so that I felt as if I've known them for a long time. THE RANCHER'S REDEMPTION is a heart tugging and wonderful tale and I loved it. I loved how Ben was very protective of Rachel and the title of this beautiful story is just perfect! Read the story, you will not regret it! I soon found myself cheering for Rachel every time I turned the page.


I thoroughly enjoyed reading THE RANCHER'S REDEMPTION. It is funny and heart warming and filled with so many different emotions. There is so much going on in this story, but Melinda Curtis does a wonderful job of weaving all the pieces together. All of the characters will have you feeling sad and then giggling on the same page. More than once I wanted to be on that ranch teasing the chickens and running from the charging heifer ! The ending was perfect and had me laughing out loud! Just what is Big E. up to and who answered the door? Once you finish devouring this story, you are going to want to tell everyone you know about this awesome book.



I received a complimentary copy of this book from Prism Book Tours. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

[Carrie Schmidt · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 stars

Another great addition to the multi-author Return of the Blackwell Brothers series! I’m so enjoying this family of brothers and the women they fall for, as well as the continuing story arc of their grandfather Big E and what he’s up to. If you haven’t jumped into this series yet, you can read each one as a standalone if you need to, but you’ll enjoy the series much more if you start from the beginning.

Ben Blackwell has stayed away from the family ranch since being jilted at the altar by his fiancee and a family member. But a series of circumstances find the attorney back home and facing a legal battle against his childhood friend Rachel Thompson, who also happens to be his ex’s best friend. Rachel is in the middle of her own divorce/custody battle as well as fighting to keep her own family’s ranch alive, manage her own law practice, and take care of her baby girl.

I loved both of these characters and how their friendship still overpowers their current animosity toward one another. They may be wary – and with good reason – but deep down the ties between them are still there, combined with some delicious sparks and chemistry. Both have issues that they need to work through – personally, with family and with each other. This adds a lot of depth to each character, and one particular dilemma that Ben faces definitely kept the story from becoming predictable. There wasn’t an easy answer to that one, and I enjoyed the layers it added to the plot and the characters – as well as the thread of redemption that it elevated.

There’s lots more to love about The Rancher’s Redemption. For instance, Ben’s easy way with Rachel’s adorable little girl and the instant bond they had. There’s something very swoony about a big tough cowboy (even if he is a fancy lawyer now) who isn’t too tough to help take care of a baby. Another thing to love is the interesting twist that happens in the continuing arc with Big E and the ripples of its repercussions throughout the story. I’m so intrigued by this thread and can’t wait to see where it continues to lead!

Bottom Line: The Rancher’s Redemption by Melinda Curtis is sweet and sincere, with great chemistry and tension in this friends-to-more romance. The Blackwell family dynamics continue to be intriguing and entertaining, particularly as the brothers navigate the hot mess Big E left behind. Well-placed humor blends well with the more serious moments, and the importance of family is nicely spotlighted. A great read which continues the series momentum and sets the stage for the next book as well.

(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)

first seen at Reading Is My SuperPower

[Aimee · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the third installment in the Return of the Blackwell Brothers series. I am really loving how each book is written by a different author so each brother has a distinct voice and personality. The books have cross over appeal with familiar characters and a continuing story line. I think these books should be read in order but I think each book can stand on it's own. You will just enjoy them more if you read them in order.

Ben is a man who feels the weight of guilt from past decisions. He wants to own up to his mistakes and make things right for everyone involved, especially Rachel as they reconnect. I could feel Ben's desires to be honorable and I could definitely feel Rachel's frazzled emotions as she tries to balance everything on her plate. What I had a harder time feeling was the romantic connection between Ben and Rachel. But, having said that, I still feel like both Ben and Rachel were believable characters with motives and desires that I cared about too. I loved the addition of the sweet baby and how Ben was a champion with her. That's enough to melt any mother's heart!

This is a great addition to this series and I'm really looking forward to the next book. Things are building for quite the ending with these Blackwell brothers and their grandfather!

Content: kissing

- I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions expressed are my own.

[Carla · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Rancher's Redemption by Melinda Curtis, is the third book in the Return of the Blackwell Brothers series. Each book is the story of one of the five Blackwell Brothers and is written by a different author. I am thrilled with this series and how well the books flow together. The characters recur in each story and those stories fit together seamlessly. In this story, Ben Blackwell, has Rachel, a childhood friend and lawyer is suing the Blackwells after losing the rights to water for the Double T Ranch, her family home. Ben returned reluctantly after leaving five years earlier when his fiancé left him at the alter and married his grandfather, Big E.

This book is a heart tugging story and I loved it. I loved how Ben was so protective of Rachel and her little girl and seeing the chemistry between Ben and Rachel sizzle. Ben has some big decisions to make in this story. Is he going to step up and right a wrong, admit that he is an unethical lawyer, forgive his brothers for their betrayal, and the biggest decision of all, will he stay in Montana or head back to New York. The Blackwell family dynamics continue to be intriguing and entertaining, particularly as the brothers navigate the mess Big E left behind when he and Zoe took off months earlier. Well-placed humor blends well with the more serious moments, and the importance of family and helping one another. This was a great read which continues the series momentum and the ending sets the stage for the next book nicely. I actually started reading the next one right away because I can't wait to see what is in story for the brothers and what Big E has up his sleeve. If you enjoy a heartwarming romance with some great family moments, then pick up this book, in fact start at the beginning and follow the Blackwell Brothers as they fall in love and try to sort out Big E's mess. The author generously provided me with a copy of this this book to read upon request. The rating, ideas and opinions shared are my own.

[Brittany · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another great story in the Return of the Blackwell Brothers series. It can be read as a stand alone novel if you haven’t read the previous two books, but I highly recommend reading the other two books before this one, as well, because they are so good!

The title of this novel is perfect. Ben needed redemption. He had some things happen to him in the past that are heartbreaking, however, he has also slipped off the path of good character that his parents originally set him on. Bending truths and pushing rules as far as possible worked for his job as a high powered attorney but it began eating him up inside.

And poor Rachel. She was someone who was juggling way too many things on her own and barely keeping everything together. I really liked the connection between these two, who grew up together and used to be friends. There was plenty of chemistry and some great attraction in this story. I also enjoyed seeing Ben and Rachel grow so much emotionally as a result of spending time together and connecting with each other. Once again, I am looking forward to the next book in the series!

I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.

You can read this review on my blog:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...

[Laurie · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 stars. Rachel Thompson’s got her hands full as a single parent with her family’s ranch to save and trouble garnering respect from family members and a ranch hand who refers to her as “Little Lady.” Her dad is gone. Stress over their Double T ranch contributing to his demise, Rachel is determined to set the neighboring Blackwells straight over river water rights that they’re not entitled to, and which is wreaking financial havoc on the Double T. Ben, The Blackwell brother who’s the high-powered NY lawyer of the family, has been called in to defend their family over the water rights issue. Rachel, also a lawyer, feels out of her league being the small-town attorney that she is, going up against Ben, her childhood friend, now nemesis. To be honest, he’s a little irresistible, but Rachel has to do what she has to do to protect her family’s legacy. If only she knew about the secret that Ben is concealing, a truth that could change the future of the Double T, and their relationship.

The Rancher’s Redemption is Book 3 in the Return of the Blackwell Brothers series. I enjoyed Ben’s and Rachel’s story. One of my favorite scenes was Ben being chased by an Aberdeen Angus Bull named Ferdinand. Ben’s divided in his feelings about the ranch he grew up on and the life he’s made for himself in NYC. Watching his transformation throughout the course of the story was heartwarming. I’m looking forward to book 4.

[Gale · Rating 5 out of 5]

On to Blackwell Brother #3, Ben Blackwell. Where each of the brothers I’ve read so far has a story that touches your heart, Ben’s sort of thwacked me right in the stomach. This may be a spoiler, if you haven’t read any of the previous books (no worries, this is a standalone but the series works SO much better for me to know all the characters), however Ben left town right after his grandfather eloped with Ben’s fiancée…you know, while Ben was waiting at the altar. Broke my heart!

But Ben has returned home, at the (repeated) requests/texts/desperate calls of his two brothers, Jon and Ben’s twin Ethan, to try to untangle a mess that Big E (the Blackwell “boys” grandfather) has left at the family ranch. Ben is now a “big city” lawyer and Jon and Ethan can really use his help in Falcon Creek. (That is a VERY simple explanation; Ms. Curtis weaves an amazing story that will grab your attention and hold it thru to the end.)

Ben’s first meeting in town is with Rachel Thompson, the lawyer on the opposing side if a lawsuit involving Big E’s ranch. She also happens to be a long-ago frenemy of Ben’s who is on the Thompson side of Big E’s feud. Both Rachel and Ben have events in their pasts, immediate and from years ago that they have to deal with and overcome, but somehow it is all intertwined in what is happening in the here and now. I loved how they bantered and bickered but always had each other’s back, even when they were on opposite sides of a court case. I read this story straight thru because I enjoyed their relationship and how it weaves into the overall series’ story. And Ben’s touching and sweet interactions with Poppy, Rachel’s daughter, will make you melt.

I have a favorite line in this story, one that made me laugh out loud. I won’t tell you anything about where it comes in the story, however, when you read it for yourself, just remember I warned you: “Talk to the hand.” If you’ve read my reviews for the earlier books, there are those connected gems that made me smile! Made Ben squirm, just as much as Jon and Ethan did when it was their turn/story. I just can’t wait to read more. As with the previous Blackwell Brothers’ stories, there is much heart, soul, and fun in The Rancher’s Redemption and I can’t wait to read the next one.

[MJSH · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am LOVING this series! This book is #3 in the series but can definitely be read as a stand alone. Though once you meet Ben Blackwell, I’m sure you will pick up the previous two books to get to know his twin Ethan and his older brother Jonathan if you haven’t read about them yet. The history of the five Blackwell brothers is a tragic one and you can’t help but feel such sympathy for these five boys who lost their parents prematurely and were raised by a grandfather who made lots of mistakes. The writing is easy to follow and fluid, the plot is engaging and well-paced, and the characters....oh, the characters. They’re memorable, real, and so lovable!

Ben, the big NYC lawyer, returns to his hometown to fight for his family ranch’s water rights against the bordering ranch. Returning home isn’t easy for Ben since his departure five years ago was fraught with betrayal of the worst kind. Despite his bitterness, anger, and hardened heart, Ben is still a really good guy with a tender heart aching for justice and a great logical lawyer brain. Rachel is the lawyer in their hometown and a single mom struggling to keep her law practice and her family’s ranch bordering Ben’s family’s afloat at the same time. Complicating Ben and Rachel’s former friendship is the fact that Rachel’s best friend had been once engaged to Ben and then eloped with his grandfather. Buried secrets are unearthed, some tantalizing clues regarding the Blackwell grandfather’s disappearance are revealed, and redemption, forgiveness, and second chances abound when both Ben and Rachel open up their hearts.

I can’t wait to dive into Tyler’s story next! If you love well-written contemporary romance, you will surely love this book and the series.
I was given a copy of the book from the publisher via Prism Book Tours and was under no obligation to post a positive review. All comments and opinions are solely my own.

[Suzie · Rating 4 out of 5]

If any of the Blackwell brothers has a good excuse to never return to Montana and the family ranch, it’s Ben. After all, his grandfather eloped with his fiancée. On his wedding day!

But when some circumstances at his job in New York City come at the same time as a desperate call from his twin brother asking for his lawyer expertise to help with a lawsuit about the Blackwell Ranch’s water rights, Ben caves.

The opposing council is Ben’s ex-fiancee’s best friend—a woman who Ben once called his friend as well. Rachel is stretched thin with all of her responsibilities but it’s al worth it for her daughter.

Y’all, is there anything sweeter and more endearing than a tough guy who has a way with a baby? Despite the chip on Ben’s shoulder, he is drawn to Rachel. He is slowly mending the past with his brothers, and he is finding the man he wants to be.

Melinda Curtis even throws a few laughs in there. The women’s comments about Ben’s running apparel are hilarious! And as we see more of the ranch house that Ben’s step-grandmother/ex-fiancee has decorated, we know an atrocity has been committed.

The authors of this series are doing a fantastic job of weaving their characters and the townspeople into one cohesive series.


Disclosure statement:
I receive complimentary books from publishers, publicists, and/or authors, including NetGalley. I am not required to write positive reviews. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

[Valri Western · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was such an emotional story to me! The title really fit the story! This book is the 3rd in the series, although you can read it as a standalone. I wouldn't recommend it though because some things will make so much more sense if you've read the other books! In this book we have another Blackwell brother, Ben, who is "forced" by his brothers to come back to the family ranch because of some legal issues regarding water rights. Ben is a fancy lawyer living in New York City. At the moment, Ben is a mess! His career is a mess and so is he, but he isn't telling anyone that! I loved Ben's character through the whole book. I loved watching him go through his "redemption" because that's what he needed! The "opposing" lawyer in the water rights case is Ben's longtime friend, Rachel. Their ranches are next door to each other and the families have known each other for years - and have had many "dust ups"!!! Ben and Rachel go through a lot of dust ups of their own through the story. Rachel has a TON on her plate! I don't know how she survives to be honest! I just really enjoyed the journey both of them took, both together and personally. I definitely recommend this book!!!!

[Joyce Stewart Reviews · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Ranchers Redemption
By Melinda Curtis
5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

The Rancher's Redemption by Melinda Curtis, is the third book in the Return of the Blackwell Brothers series. If you don't have all of them don't worry you can still read it as a stand alone. This is the only one i have and i had no problem following the story. I was not lost at all.
This is a heart tugging story about Ben Blackwell and Rachel Thompson .I LOVED this book. I started and finished it all in one day. The characters are well developed and you will fall in love with them all. I was instantly emotionally invested in all of the characters . Especially Poppy Rachel's daughter. I felt as if I knew the characters personally. I won't give away the plot, but suffice it to say this is a story you won't forget.If you enjoy a well-written, emotionally intense romance, you will surely love this book and the entire series. Totally recommend!
I received a copy of the book from the the author and was under no obligation to post a positive review. All comments and opinions are solely my own.

[Gail · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received a kindle copy for my honest review.

I really enjoyed this story and hated to see it end. A heartwarming story that will melt your heart.
Ben comes back home to his family ranch to help save their water rights. Rachel Thompson is suing them for. As the case drags on Ben becomes more and more attracted to Rachel. He also finds out his family had wronged Rachel's family. Can he make things right? I also found out why the grandfather disappeared. Read the story to see how it all turns out.

[Allison · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is the third story in the series and follows Ben Blackwell, the lawyer. He returns home to battle Rachel Thompson over water rights and perhaps put his past to rest.
I have to admit I had a difficult time getting into this book as the start seemed to be quite depressing to me.
About 2/3 of the way though it grabbed me. I began to like both of the main characters as they had their flaws and their redeeming features.
I also liked the family dynamic on both sides. These families are both very realistic.
I did find the ending a little short. I really thought it was resolved a little too easily, however, the epilogue about Big E will have me reaching for the next book.
Thank you to the author for the free copy in exchange for a review.

[Anita · Rating 5 out of 5]

I liked the two main characters. Oh man, I felt sorry for the predicament that they were placed in. Not only did they have their own baggage, but they were also placed between a rock and a hard place by family.

I loved that this wasn't the typical novel. It had some fun twists in the plot and interesting layering of characters. The author did an excellent job of resolving conflicts without sacrificing depth.

This is one of this author's best novels.

Rating 5
Content: clean

[Marsha Keeper Bookshelf · Rating 5 out of 5]

Reviewed at Lovin'A Cowboy Romance

The Rancher’s Redemption is full of such raw emotions that you’ll be drawn in from the very first page. Quite frankly, right now Ben is a mess. Five years ago he left Falcon Creek and vowed never to return… and until now he’s kept that vow. There’s just something about being left waiting at the altar while the woman you thought you were about to marry just eloped with your grandfather to encourage a man not to return home. To make matters even worse, if possible, his brothers knew beforehand and didn’t say a word. Oh, they had their reasons – they weren’t sure the couple would go through with the elopement, she only wanted Ben for his money, that kind of explanation – the kind Ben didn’t want to hear. Bottom line, his family was supposed to have his back in all things… and they failed. To complicate matters, the woman who was brave enough to deliver the news was Rachel, at one time a childhood friend – right up until the Blackwells had won a water rights suit that went against her family ranch. And she delivered that news with what seemed like vindictive glee. So Ben followed through on his plan to practice law in the big city – and left his family, friends and memories behind on the Montana ranch lands. But somethings you just can’t run away from forever…

Rachel is finally in a position to take on the Blackwells over water rights that should belong to her family. She’s convinced that she has that thieving family over a barrel and she’s guaranteed a win and vindication. Too bad other parts of her overworked life don’t look so bright with a divorce, custody battle with a no-good jerk, a barely surviving law practice, a ranch that is her responsibility now without the help or funds to keep it going are just a few of the challenges facing Rachel. The brightest spot is her little baby girl, Poppy. For that precious bundle Rachel would face down a raging bull… and that just might be truer than she ever imagined once Ben gets back in town.

So, did I mention that there’s a lot of raw emotions going on in The Rancher’s Redemption? Perhaps that was an understatement.

With each book in the Return of the Blackwell Brothers series we get a little more of the background, the dynamics of the family. To say that the Blackwells are a complicated bunch is definitely one way to look at them all. The Rancher’s Redemption “could” stand on its own as an amazing story, but because of the ongoing thread of Big E going AWOL and the additional tidbits about so many members of this family as we move forward I would have to strongly suggest that you follow the entire series, if you can. And really, it’s no great hardship because these brothers and their ladies make for fascinating reading. Realistic, believable and the need to know what happens next is what keeps me glued to my Kindle on this one.

Frankly, I hurt for just about everyone involved in Ben being left at the altar… well, not Big E and Zoe, but the brothers suffered as well, in a different way. Putting all of them back together again isn’t going to be easy, but I’m betting with some very special women in their lives that’s a possibility.

Reliving memories of Ben and Rachel’s childhood friendship, what they meant to each other before Big E’s actions is heartbreaking. They had been there for each other right until the actions of others changed everything. Ben’s guilt, Rachel’s determination even when she makes mistakes along the way will drive their story. Watching them slowly work their way back to each other was emotional, tender, at times fiery but it was the path they needed to take. Ben with Poppy was beyond beautiful – that’s what a daddy is supposed to be… whether by blood or love, doesn’t matter.

Rachel and Ben will have to face so much before they find that happy ending. Tagging along on that journey was heartbreaking and heartwarming all rolled up in one amazing romance. I’d not hesitate to recommend The Rancher’s Redemption or this entire series to any Romance reader who loves a really good story, conflicts to be resolved, love to rekindle even if it is of a different kind, and an adorable little one to steal every single scene she’s in. Indulge yourself and enjoy.

I own a Kindle edition of this story.

[Lghiggins · Rating 5 out of 5]

When Ben Blackwell returns from New York City to Falcon Creek to help save his brothers and the Blackwell Ranch, he plans on a quick win in a water rights issue that was supposedly resolved fire years before. He didn’t plan on battling his old friend, Rachel, now a lawyer and single mom, as she tries to gain back her family’s water rights before the Double T Ranch folds. He never planned on confronting himself and the ethics of his past.

The Ranchers’ Redemption has well developed characters in Rachel and Ben. The plot moves quickly from one event to the next. As Rachel and Ben wrestle with their own goals and with an unwilling attraction to each other, they grow and change. There is more than a little humor throughout the book. The author, Melinda Curtis, has a way with language, writing word pictures that encourage smiles, an appreciation of the modern west, and an understanding of the challenges of being a single mother with too many responsibilities. Curtis very effectively uses a technique of inserting italicized phrases and sentences to indicate what Rachel and Ben are thinking or what Big E, Ben’s grandfather, might have said to him as he was growing up or even in the current situation. Big E had a major influence on Ben, but as Ben spends time on the ranch as an adult, the influences of his deceased parents come more to the front for him. He has some ethical decisions to make about the ranch, his family, and his life. Can this big-city lawyer, hardened by losing his parents and being jilted at the altar, make decisions with his heart?

Once I started reading The Rancher’s Redemption, I didn’t want to put it down. I was amazed at the clever turns of phrase found in the first fifty pages. There are lots of flashbacks to Ben and Rachel’s childhood that were revealing as they provided insights into the driving forces for these characters’ motivations. Interesting characters, both minor and major, good writing, humor, fast moving plot with a dual focus on ranching and the law, moral dilemmas, and messy friendships—this book is a complete package. We even get to meet Zoe, Big E’s current wife. I would have liked to know more of her story to understand her motivations, but it would have been too much to ask within the confines of this book. The author made a good choice in bringing in that storyline but not developing it extensively as that would have been a distraction to the main plot.

As in the previous two books is this series, The Rancher’s Redemption ends with an epilogue that follows Big E in his mysterious and unconventional journey to make things right in his family. Once more, the brief epilogue holds a surprise and leads the reader to ponder what might happen next, eagerly anticipating the fourth book in the Return of the Blackwell Brothers.

I would like to extend my thanks to the author, Melinda Curtis, for giving me the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.

[Char (1RadReader59) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Friendships grow over time. Ben Blackwell and Rachel Thompson were friends growing up. Really, they were there for each other for a lot of hard to handle moments and some tender ones too.

Yet, the moment Ben asked out her best friend, Zoe things were different. The three of them were together a lot of the time all three coming from the same small town in Montana. But Zoe wanted to have the wealth of the ranching families that Rachel and Ben were born into.

Then when he asked her to marry him and they would be moving to New York it all seemed perfect. Because he and Rachel would be lawyers there and Zoe would be Ben’s wife. Perfect, right? I mean she had a grand scale wedding planned from the minute he asked.

In fact, when Ben was in New York already working while she was planning the wedding his granddad Big-E was taking Zoe shopping for those extras she needed to make it extra special. He was so into his brief that he hadn’t heard the breathlessness of her words. Of how much she was enjoying the extra care.

Looking back, he wishes he would have listened better. Because his granddad was already making a play for Zoe, his high school sweetheart who really never wanted to leave their hometown but didn’t say so was already falling for his granddad. She wanted to stay home with her friends and family. She really wanted the bigger pockets that Big-E could provide.

Now the thing that hurts Ben the most is he finds. After he’s waiting at the altar in front of half of the town. It’s Rachel his old friend who is the one that comes to tell him that she tried talking her out of doing this for weeks. But that she had run off with Big-E. The dagger comes when he finds out that his brothers all knew ahead of time, too.

Ben has managed to avoid the family for five years. But an S.O.S. has been sent out to all the brothers that are not living in town, which is Chance, Tyler, and himself. So, he knows something is amiss.

When work hits a snag and time is all he has he decides to go check out what is going on but calls first. Finds out Rachel is suing for water rights. A bad sinking feeling rises up. He knows he has to go home to fight this especially since Rachel is involved. But he finds himself totally aware of wanting to see her.

This is an interesting series of five brothers told by five different authors. I missed the first two this was the first. Wasn’t disappointed at all. I loved it. All the characters hooked me right away. They are full-bodied and full of real life. You feel like you’re there watching it unfold like a movie. I give this: 5 stars. Provided by netgalley.com.

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[Connie Saunders · Rating 4 out of 5]

"Win back the water rights. Set the ranch to rights." These words are the driving force behind a legal battle that Rachel Thompson finds herself drawn into when she finds herself opposing the Blackburn family and her childhood friend Ben Blackburn. Rachel is now a small-town lawyer who is juggling her career with raising a baby and working to reverse the court decision that eventually caused part of the her family ranch to be sold. Five years later Rachel is determined to save what is left of the Double-T and she finds herself opposing Ben, a very successful lawyer in New York City who has returned to Montana and Falcon Creek at the urging of his older brother.

What follows is a story that has me wanting to learn more about these two former friends who have both faced hurts and struggles in their personal lives. Rachel is caught up in a divorce and custody battle and Ben is still feeling the betrayal of being left at the alter when his fiancee chose to marry his own grandfather! We see their reluctance and their uncertainty as their business relationship begins to blossom into something more. I found myself rooting for this relationship to deepen into something more because there is certainly chemistry betweeen these two old friends and there is the added appeal of Ben's apparent fondnes for Rachel's little girl.

Melinda Curtis has written a book filled with sweet romance and a realistic portrayal of family relationships. She also shows how Ben is able to find his way back to being the kind of person that he was raised to be. "It was good to clear out the dirt and darkness from his past. He only hoped his words tomorrow cleared the way for the Thompsons and the Blackburns to have a better future". The lawyer/rancher was seeking redemption!

The Rancher's Redemption is book #3 of the Return of the Blackburn Brothers series and I look forward to reading the other books in the series. I want to learn more about the Blackburn brothers and their intriguing relationship with their grandfather Big E.

I was given a copy of the book from the publisher via Prism Book Tours and was under no obligation to post a positive review. All comments and opinions are solely my own.

[Busy Bumble Bee Book Reviews · Rating 4 out of 5]

So this is the third book in the Blackwell Brother's series. I will say this each and every book in this series can be read as a stand alone and is written by a different author. This book follows Ben and Rachel's adventure. So you could start with this book if you wanted and I don't think you'd really be missing much, since as I mentioned these can be read as stand alones.



Big E is still missing in this book and Ben finds himself back in Falcon Creek. Somewhere Ben Blackwell never thought he'd be again. The only reason he is back home is to fight the water rights disput that Rachel Thompson has filed against his family. He's not back to make nice with his family or his twin brother Ethan. But he is back to make some past wrongs right with his ex-best friend Rachel and her family farm the Double T, even if it destroys his own family. I liked Ben is this book and even felt for him.



Rachel Thompson is a woman on a mission. A woman who is wanting to right the wrongs done to her family by the Blackwell family. She's also a woman who is trying to finalize her divorce, raise her daughter, and take care of her family ranch. I liked that she was sweet, kind, caring, protective, and fiesty.



I thought that this book was a nice addition to the Blackwell Brothers series. I really liked getting to know Ben in this book. I really felt for the Blackwell brother's and all the pain they've gone through. Even though their not as close as they used to be you could tell how much family and they still meant to each other. I thought that Ben and Rachel were a perfect match for each other, also.



I'm giving this book 4 Stars out of 5!!!!

***I received a copy of this book for my honest opinion***

[Phyllis · Rating 4 out of 5]

You can never go back. Or can you?

My rating is 4.5 stars

Ben was quite the character. The struggle he had in not allowing himself to be callous was real. It was his defense against getting hurt. Again. Yet under his fancy New York lawyer’s facade was a man with a heart of gold who couldn’t stand by and watch injustice being done. I loved seeing his conflict and how genuine it made him.

There were several times when Ben swooped in and rescued Rachel. This tended to make her a little angry because she wanted to be able to stand on her own two feet. Needed to. The two times he did this as a lawyer (as opposed to when he did as a cowboy), were so funny! The second time he did this, I was laughing so hard I couldn’t stop for several minutes! In fact, I was trying and trying to just giggle quietly to not disturb my husband in the other room, but couldn’t keep it in.

If you enjoy humor mixed in with your romance and conflict, with a little baby added for the cuteness factor, oh, and with a handsome horse whisperer too, then you need to pick up The Rancher’s Redemption.


This review was originally posted on Among the Reads


I was given a copy of this book for free. I was not required to give a favorable review nor was any money received for this review. All comments and opinions are my own.

[Lynn Brooks · Rating 5 out of 5]

4 1/2 STARS!

The prodigal brother returns! With the third book in the deliciously emotional Return of the Blackwell Brothers series, Melinda Curtis brings us the story of the betrayed brother. Past hurt is brought to the surface and hashed out while new horizons brighten when love is found again. The story line had my attention from page one, and it only continued to get better. I'm really enjoying watching this family works it's way back into each other's hearts ... as well as mine! Looking forward to more to come in the series!

New York attorney Ben Blackwell happens to be at a crossroad in his life when he gets the call from his twin brother Ethan that the family desperately needs his help with a lawsuit about water rights on the family ranch. He hasn't been home since his bride-to-be betrayed him and the family that he thought always had his back proved that they didn't. He's not gung ho about heading back to Montana, but he promises himself he'll get in and get out quickly.

Childhood friend and neighbor Rachel Thompson also happens to be the one that flung the truth in his face about her best friend, his then fiancee all those years ago. Now she's a single Mom, trying to fight his family for more water rights on her crumbling ranch. Close proximity brings out an attraction that neither of them expects, and encourages Ben to consider spilling a long-held secret that could affect this lawsuit ... but would his family ever forgive him? ... and would Rachel?

[Marcie Robinson · Rating 5 out of 5]

“The Rancher’s Redemption” by Melinda Curtis is book three of the Return of the Blackwell Brothers continuity and can be read without having read the first two (though I’m sure you’ll want to).

Lawyer Ben Blackwell returns home to Falcon Creek, Montana to fight for water rights between his family’s ranch and the ranch next door.
Rachel Thompson is left to run the ranch after her father dies. She is also Ben’s opposing counsel.

Ben is dealing with guilt and regrets over his recent fall from grace. He wants to do the right thing for his family and for himself.
Rachel is struggling to keep her family afloat and is trying to find the balance between being a mom, a lawyer, and a ranch owner.
Ben and Rachel are more than lawyers on opposites sides of the courtroom. They are childhood friends and it is those memories that help bring these two closer and allows them to see each other in a new light.

“The Rancher’s Redemption” is true-to-life in showing what ranchers face in trying to survive and shows the power of finding a way to work together. Even when feelings of the heart sneak their way in.

Ms. Curtis is a master at blending humor and heart in her books and this story is a perfect example.

[Cheryl · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ben Blackwell is back in Montana after living and working as a lawyer in New York. His brothers have been badgering him to return, to help with the family ranch, since his grandfather, Big E seems to have disappeared. Ben want s nothing to do with his grandfather or the ranch he grew up on, but he comes back to use his skills to help settle a water dispute with their neighbor.
But their neighbor is Rachel, a childhood friend of the Blackwell’s, and the best friend of Ben’s ex-fiancé ...who’s now married to Ben’s grandfather! Who can blame the guy for wanting to stay far away. Adding to the drama is a long-kept secret about these same water rights, and Ben’s growing feelings for stubborn, feisty, single mom Rachel.
While The Rancher’s Redemption can be read as a stand-alone, I’m really enjoying following the series along, and experiencing each authors take on one specific Blackwell brother. Melinda Curtis is a favorite author who’s books always entertain and never disappoint! Come enjoy the Blackwell brothers and their small Montana town...you won’t want to leave!

[Sarah · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rachel is ready to make things right as she promised her dad and she will stop at nothing to make that happen. Ben is back and only to fight for the water rights that his family has and will continue to expect there are some secrets that he has and he needs to decide if they are worth keeping and hurting those he loves or lose everything and be honest.
I loved this sweet love story. The characters feel more like friends you are catching up with and less like a story your reading. The book draws you and you find your self-reading to just find out what happens. I loved how none of the characters came off perfect but came more off as the average joe. I love how Ms. Curtis keeps her books clean so they are suitable for all readers. This book was such a fun read and makes you want more from this small town and the fun people in it. I received an advance copy. I was under no obligation to post a review and have given my honest opinion

[Sunnie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is book three of the Return of the Blackwell Brothers series. It is a good stand alone as I can tell you, because I have not yet read the first two books. But am planning on doing just that!

Fighting over water rights and hard feelings between rancher's and responsibilities of family and ranch can cause serious problems and that's just what they have done in this book. How will they resolve the problems that have festered for years? Ben Blackwell has some things in his past that he wants to change about himself. But it will be difficult for him to resolve the issues without causing more difficulties.

This is a sweet romance and a very interesting, real-life type of book. With real-life problems to resolve. I really liked it and hope to read many other books from this very good author.

I received an ebook copy from the author and chose to review. All thoughts are my own.

[Jill Johns · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was given an advanced copy to read for an honest review. Melinda Curtis has written another hit. The characters come alive and make you want to scream and cheer them. Ben is a lawyer and never wanted to go back to the Blackwell ranch but Big E his grandfather is missing. The issue is the neighboring ranch is sueing them for the water rights. Rachel the girl next door, is the lawyer and neighbor who has filed the report. Rachel is the lovable lawyer who just wants to do right by her clients and her family and the family ranch, but nothing seems to be going right. Ben is has been in the practice of the big corporation and not the kind we like. Now he just wants to right a wrong from years ago but is afraid of what it will do to his family. Can he help them all in his new thoughts of what a lawyer should be? Can he save both ranches? Will Rachel help? What about the brothers? Read to find out the twists and turns for the answers.

[Fleur · Rating 5 out of 5]

In book 3 we meet Ben the hot shot lawyer who up and left 5 years ago and to be fair I would too after what happened but now he is back as his brothers need him but it isn't going to be a smooth ride. Rachel is working hard to juggle Double T ranch, her family as well as her own life and job and the last thing she needs is to go up against Ben in court especially as he use to be her friend until he got engaged to her Best friend Zoe. There is so much packed into this book that you well and truly fall in love with Ben and Rachel and you get the frustrations, hesitations as well as attraction they have for each other, you are left guessing if they will both take a step back and let each other know how they feel and not let their insecurities take over. I fully recommend you read books 1 & 2 so you get the full effects of this book as well as the other brothers etc and you won't be disappointed with them either!

[Wendy Keel · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Rancher's Redemption is a great read. This is part of the Return of the Blackwell Brothers series and yes it can be read as a stand alone novel but will work better if you read all the stories in order. This is Ben Blackwell's story. I have to say of all the stories Ben's is probably the most gut wrenching. Watching Ben deal with his past, his present and what he wants out of the future was deeply engaging. Rachel had her own issues to deal with and then there is Rachel's little girl.......OHH my she's sooo sweet. The story is easy to read and so very realistic. The characters are well written and make you want to not only meet them but visit their ranch. Fans of the heartwarming line are sure to adore this book, if you are new to this line of books I highly recommend them. They are sweet, easy to read, touching stories that leave you eager for more. A great addition to anyone's bookshelf!

[Wendy Keel · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Rancher's Redemption is a great read. This is part of the Return of the Blackwell Brothers series and yes it can be read as a stand alone novel but will work better if you read all the stories in order. This is Ben Blackwell's story. I have to say of all the stories Ben's is probably the most gut wrenching. Watching Ben deal with his past, his present and what he wants out of the future was deeply engaging. Rachel had her own issues to deal with and then there is Rachel's little girl.......OHH my she's sooo sweet. The story is easy to read and so very realistic. The characters are well written and make you want to not only meet them but visit their ranch. Fans of the heartwarming line are sure to adore this book, if you are new to this line of books I highly recommend them. They are sweet, easy to read, touching stories that leave you eager for more. A great addition to anyone's bookshelf!

[Anna · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed the story of Ben and Rachel. Their history and the anger towards one another just added fuel to the fire and I loved it.

Ben is a big city lawyer come back to fight for the family ranch. But he's up against Rachel is ex-fiances best friend. The one who knew she was going to leave him at the altar and yet said nothing. He wants nothing more than to put her in her place. But what a looker she still is. And the attraction can't be denied.

Rachel is struggling. With her job, with her ex and their custody. And for her familys ranch. Without the water rights from Ben's family they will go under. But new evidence has come to light that may change everything.

As these two cross paths more and more they see a common goal. To do what's right. And with their first kiss all bets are off. But can they be together after all the family bad blood, all their history? Can a resolution come about to benefit both families and bring them together forever?