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Branded
-Ryan-
I've never experienced a real family firsthand. I had no idea what he was giving up to be with me. I'm keeping him from having everything. He'd be better off without me.
-Russell-
He thinks I'll be better off without him. That he isn't able to give me what I need physically or emotionally. I will make him see that he’s all I'll ever want or need ...
Even if I have to brand it into him to do it.
I've never experienced a real family firsthand. I had no idea what he was giving up to be with me. I'm keeping him from having everything. He'd be better off without me.
-Russell-
He thinks I'll be better off without him. That he isn't able to give me what I need physically or emotionally. I will make him see that he’s all I'll ever want or need ...
Even if I have to brand it into him to do it.
- GenresM M RomanceBDSM
404 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 7, 2021
11 people are currently reading
189 people want to read
About the author
Cole Denton
47 books632 followersUSA Today Bestselling Author
Cole Denton is an ocean lover who finds joy in almost all physical activities. He is especially passionate about baseball and surfing, indulging in them every chance he gets.
His other passion is writing. It began at a young age and followed him through to his time at a university in SoCal where he majored in screenwriting.
After moving to Sin City, Cole has put his knowledge and talent as a writer to work by pursuing a career as a dark fiction author. Cole is enjoying testing his kinky side, in pursuit of all things pleasurable.
Cole Denton is an ocean lover who finds joy in almost all physical activities. He is especially passionate about baseball and surfing, indulging in them every chance he gets.
His other passion is writing. It began at a young age and followed him through to his time at a university in SoCal where he majored in screenwriting.
After moving to Sin City, Cole has put his knowledge and talent as a writer to work by pursuing a career as a dark fiction author. Cole is enjoying testing his kinky side, in pursuit of all things pleasurable.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 49 reviews
August 22, 2022
This is by far the most emotional book in the series. I feel like I shed tears at every turn, especially when he saw that Russell’s parents had collected a USC ceramic baseball cap and his books to represent the man their son loved so much.
I’m pretty certain that Ryan and Russell might be the most realistic couple I’ve read. Well … Russell might be supernaturally perfect but otherwise yeah. They go through a lot together, not to mention the ongoing turmoil that Ryan suffers. No matter what, they’ve got each other and their love is unconditional.
It’s no doubt of extreme import that I announce that Russell did indeed give Ryan a blowjob. It was far and away the best part of the entire series.
I’m pretty gut punched that it’s over. I think I’ll always wonder what the rest of their life together would entail. At the same time, I don’t want to know how it inevitably ends. So, I suppose I will be content in everything that I can only dream for them.
I’m pretty certain that Ryan and Russell might be the most realistic couple I’ve read. Well … Russell might be supernaturally perfect but otherwise yeah. They go through a lot together, not to mention the ongoing turmoil that Ryan suffers. No matter what, they’ve got each other and their love is unconditional.
It’s no doubt of extreme import that I announce that Russell did indeed give Ryan a blowjob. It was far and away the best part of the entire series.
I’m pretty gut punched that it’s over. I think I’ll always wonder what the rest of their life together would entail. At the same time, I don’t want to know how it inevitably ends. So, I suppose I will be content in everything that I can only dream for them.
August 15, 2022
I can't believe that I am at the end of the road for Ryan & Russell's story. There was anger, a good bit of fear, some laughs and all the tears. Cole Denton gave us one of the most earned endings I have ever had the pleasure of reading.
Ryan and Russell have been through hell and back, but they are finally on their way to the happily ever after neither one of them ever expected to get. Ryan still dreams of the past where he was that scared little boy. He knows that Russell will be there for him day or night but what if Russell wants more. After the proposition of spending Christmas with Russell's family Ryan can't help but wonder if he will be enough. Will he ever be enough for the man who saved him.
Russell can sense Ryan's fear almost before it manifests. He knows the way his boy thinks and there is nothing he won't do to ensure that Ryan has the best life he could ever dream of. Part of that starts with Christmas with his family. Ryan deserves to have the kind of love he never received from his own family. This is Russell's time to show Ryan that he can be loved but more than that he already is.
After the heaviness of the previous four books in this series it was nice to have a bit of lighthearted holiday fun. There was still the emotion I have grown to love that Cole puts into everything he writes but with this book it was almost as if I could sense Ryan's pain being released. He was learning that he was capable of love and that he deserved it.
Ryan and Russell will stay with me for years to come. Their story was unlike anything I have ever read before and through all the anger, tears and heartache there was so much to love here. This whole series has been five stars for me and Branded was no different.
Ryan and Russell have been through hell and back, but they are finally on their way to the happily ever after neither one of them ever expected to get. Ryan still dreams of the past where he was that scared little boy. He knows that Russell will be there for him day or night but what if Russell wants more. After the proposition of spending Christmas with Russell's family Ryan can't help but wonder if he will be enough. Will he ever be enough for the man who saved him.
Russell can sense Ryan's fear almost before it manifests. He knows the way his boy thinks and there is nothing he won't do to ensure that Ryan has the best life he could ever dream of. Part of that starts with Christmas with his family. Ryan deserves to have the kind of love he never received from his own family. This is Russell's time to show Ryan that he can be loved but more than that he already is.
After the heaviness of the previous four books in this series it was nice to have a bit of lighthearted holiday fun. There was still the emotion I have grown to love that Cole puts into everything he writes but with this book it was almost as if I could sense Ryan's pain being released. He was learning that he was capable of love and that he deserved it.
Ryan and Russell will stay with me for years to come. Their story was unlike anything I have ever read before and through all the anger, tears and heartache there was so much to love here. This whole series has been five stars for me and Branded was no different.
August 16, 2023
Ok so, I found this book very boring, it wasn't bad per se (I think it's my problem, that I got a bit tired of this story) but it bored me and moreover the first half seemed strange in the sense that they didn't even seem like Ryan and Russell to me idk why, it must be because the other books were much more touching but i'm not sure, so I would have given less stars BUT I loved the last two chapters of this book (and the second and third books a lot) so I give this rating mainly for them.
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October 28, 2021“Some love stories are seared into your soul.”
December 7, 2021
The final book in Ryan and Russell’s story is here … and damn what a way to end this phenomenal series! Ryan Hudson has had such an unfathomable start in life. Unspeakable things were done to him by those who should have loved and protected him but even through everything dark that he endured, Ryan always shines brightly. Ryan’s unstoppable hope, determination and search for belonging has given this series a permanent place in my heart. It is addictive, inspiring and unforgettable.
Branded sees Ryan and Russell headed to spend the holidays with Russell’s family. Though the two of them have weathered many things in their relationship can they overcome the biggest of Ryan’s fears…that he is not and never can be worthy of Russell because of his past? Russell is ever dependable and always Ryan’s pillar in stormy seas … can he finally get through Ryan’s walls of self doubt and make him see he is worthy and so much more?
Branded has everything we love about Ryan and Russell. It will pull at your heartstrings, make you feel Ryan’s despair in the pit of your stomach but also it’s laugh out loud humour and extremely “melt your reading device” sexy times make this book one of Cole Denton’s best yet. I’m sad to see the end but my, oh my…what a ride it’s been! Ryan and Russell forever!
Highly recommended.
Branded sees Ryan and Russell headed to spend the holidays with Russell’s family. Though the two of them have weathered many things in their relationship can they overcome the biggest of Ryan’s fears…that he is not and never can be worthy of Russell because of his past? Russell is ever dependable and always Ryan’s pillar in stormy seas … can he finally get through Ryan’s walls of self doubt and make him see he is worthy and so much more?
Branded has everything we love about Ryan and Russell. It will pull at your heartstrings, make you feel Ryan’s despair in the pit of your stomach but also it’s laugh out loud humour and extremely “melt your reading device” sexy times make this book one of Cole Denton’s best yet. I’m sad to see the end but my, oh my…what a ride it’s been! Ryan and Russell forever!
Highly recommended.
December 9, 2021
I am so sad to see the conclusion of Ryan and Russell But this book was such a perfect and heartfelt ending.
Ryan has went through the most horrific childhood. His family did unspeakable things to him and he is still very much damaged from the trauma of his past. He still has his love Russell there guiding him but Ryan being Ryan has his doubts.
This final installment sees Ryan and Russell traveling to the Midwest for Thanksgiving and Christmas holidays to meet and and spend time with Russell’s family. Ryan is a ball of nerves on how his parents will receive him.
I absolutely adored Russell’s parents. This book was so warm and sweet and I definitely got emotional during so many moments. Ryan got the family and Holiday he deserved. I just love these two so much and I’m going to miss these guys lol
Ryan has went through the most horrific childhood. His family did unspeakable things to him and he is still very much damaged from the trauma of his past. He still has his love Russell there guiding him but Ryan being Ryan has his doubts.
This final installment sees Ryan and Russell traveling to the Midwest for Thanksgiving and Christmas holidays to meet and and spend time with Russell’s family. Ryan is a ball of nerves on how his parents will receive him.
I absolutely adored Russell’s parents. This book was so warm and sweet and I definitely got emotional during so many moments. Ryan got the family and Holiday he deserved. I just love these two so much and I’m going to miss these guys lol
August 24, 2022
Everything 💙♥️
This series is a harrowing story about sexual and physical abuse and it’s long reaching effects. We still have Ryan suffering flashbacks but they’re becoming less frequent with Russell’s care, unconditional love and support for his boy.
Branded, book 5 is the conclusion to Ryan and Russell’s story. It’s a story of recovery, hope and love for a positive future as we follow Ryan and Russell through their Christmas holiday.
This series is a harrowing story about sexual and physical abuse and it’s long reaching effects. We still have Ryan suffering flashbacks but they’re becoming less frequent with Russell’s care, unconditional love and support for his boy.
Branded, book 5 is the conclusion to Ryan and Russell’s story. It’s a story of recovery, hope and love for a positive future as we follow Ryan and Russell through their Christmas holiday.
January 6, 2022
I honestly don’t know where to start with this book! The title itself is ominous. Is someone going to get branded? Is a tattoo involved? I knew the story so far--Ryan Hudson is a 35-year old man who has suffered great indignities through the physical and sexual abuse from his parents. He does not know what love and affection are and at a friend’s home, meets Russell, an older man who agrees to be Ryan’s mentor into the world of kinky BDSM. A relationship develops as the apprentice responds to the mentor’s words and touch. Russell soon loses his heart to the needy and unfulfilled Ryan, and Ryan, in turn, falls in love with Russell as his body and mind begin to heal.
But the time has come for Ryan to meet Russell’s parents, Lily and Stanley. Thanksgiving and Christmas would be a perfect time—a leisurely drive from Las Vegas to Indianapolis. But Ryan is apprehensive. Will the parents like him? Will they resent that he is not a woman who could give Russell children, thereby giving them grandchildren? How will the rest of Russell’s family react to their relationship? What about his nervous stomach and the smelly farts he makes? How is he going to control them so as not to offend Lily and Stanley? So many questions ran through Ryan’s mind adding to his already nervous stomach and confused state causing him to still be timid and unsure of himself.
As I read this book, I notice that my cheeks are wet; very wet—tears flowing from my eyes like a torrid rainstorm. But these are not the sad and angry tears I shed in the earlier stories of Ryan and the abuse his parents instilled upon him. Why am I reading this stuff that is breaking my heart? Because in the end, there is a rainbow that leads to a pot of gold. The words that Ryan wrote in Russell’s Christmas card (another tear-jerking moment) is that pot of gold. With Russell’s patience and love, Ryan is finally able to understand what Russell means to him and what he means to Russell.
So many threads running throughout his book; the train, the nervous stomach, the junk food, the cookies, the batteries, the rings, and finally the tattoos; threads that finally tie the story up (see what I did there). And a perfect release date—A Christmas story at Christmas time. This is a fitting ending to a beautiful story that is full of hope, and courage and the power of love. We all need a Russell in our lives to facilitate the Ryan in us. Kudos to you, Cole Denton! You sent me on a powerful emotional journey that helped me understand the world of Russell and Ryan.
But the time has come for Ryan to meet Russell’s parents, Lily and Stanley. Thanksgiving and Christmas would be a perfect time—a leisurely drive from Las Vegas to Indianapolis. But Ryan is apprehensive. Will the parents like him? Will they resent that he is not a woman who could give Russell children, thereby giving them grandchildren? How will the rest of Russell’s family react to their relationship? What about his nervous stomach and the smelly farts he makes? How is he going to control them so as not to offend Lily and Stanley? So many questions ran through Ryan’s mind adding to his already nervous stomach and confused state causing him to still be timid and unsure of himself.
As I read this book, I notice that my cheeks are wet; very wet—tears flowing from my eyes like a torrid rainstorm. But these are not the sad and angry tears I shed in the earlier stories of Ryan and the abuse his parents instilled upon him. Why am I reading this stuff that is breaking my heart? Because in the end, there is a rainbow that leads to a pot of gold. The words that Ryan wrote in Russell’s Christmas card (another tear-jerking moment) is that pot of gold. With Russell’s patience and love, Ryan is finally able to understand what Russell means to him and what he means to Russell.
So many threads running throughout his book; the train, the nervous stomach, the junk food, the cookies, the batteries, the rings, and finally the tattoos; threads that finally tie the story up (see what I did there). And a perfect release date—A Christmas story at Christmas time. This is a fitting ending to a beautiful story that is full of hope, and courage and the power of love. We all need a Russell in our lives to facilitate the Ryan in us. Kudos to you, Cole Denton! You sent me on a powerful emotional journey that helped me understand the world of Russell and Ryan.
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June 12, 2023
series review:
I'd waited my whole life for his soul; one that despite being tortured had the ability and hope to love ... and be loved. My fingers itched to touch him. My soul yearned to see and hear him. My heart burned to love him.
— phoenix (book #3)
OH. FINALLY. between my reading slump + mediocre reads lately, it feels like it's been a minute since i've read a book/series that had me completely invested, but i'm just so fucking happy to finally read something good again. i've missed the feeling of being so invested in a series that you just binge the whole thing and this was me with trial by fire. please keep in mind though, the series (mainly book one) isn't for the faint of the heart. there was so much abuse, trauma, pain, manipulation, etc in the first book as we see one of the mcs, Ryan, grow up in an abusive household; however, we also see so much healing, acceptance, love and hope (in books two through five) as we follow Ryan's journey. this series took me on a rollercoaster ride of feels and i was rooting for Ryan every step of the way. 🥺
RUSSELL?? RYAN?? these two have my heart and soul. the hurt/comfort in this series was something i loved and appreciated so much. it felt consistent and real. i wanted to hug Ryan throughout the series and i'm honestly so happy Russell is the one for him. they truly did give me soulmate vibes. i loved some of the side characters as well (not all of them ... iykyk) and what they brought to the story - especially April and Kim. 🥹
thank you Candy for bringing this series on my radar. 🤪
***
Trial by Fire series:
#1 Forged — 4 stars
#2 Steel — 4 stars
#3 Phoenix — 5 stars
#4 Iron — 4.5 stars
#5 Branded — 5 stars
I'd waited my whole life for his soul; one that despite being tortured had the ability and hope to love ... and be loved. My fingers itched to touch him. My soul yearned to see and hear him. My heart burned to love him.
— phoenix (book #3)
OH. FINALLY. between my reading slump + mediocre reads lately, it feels like it's been a minute since i've read a book/series that had me completely invested, but i'm just so fucking happy to finally read something good again. i've missed the feeling of being so invested in a series that you just binge the whole thing and this was me with trial by fire. please keep in mind though, the series (mainly book one) isn't for the faint of the heart. there was so much abuse, trauma, pain, manipulation, etc in the first book as we see one of the mcs, Ryan, grow up in an abusive household; however, we also see so much healing, acceptance, love and hope (in books two through five) as we follow Ryan's journey. this series took me on a rollercoaster ride of feels and i was rooting for Ryan every step of the way. 🥺
RUSSELL?? RYAN?? these two have my heart and soul. the hurt/comfort in this series was something i loved and appreciated so much. it felt consistent and real. i wanted to hug Ryan throughout the series and i'm honestly so happy Russell is the one for him. they truly did give me soulmate vibes. i loved some of the side characters as well (not all of them ... iykyk) and what they brought to the story - especially April and Kim. 🥹
thank you Candy for bringing this series on my radar. 🤪
***
Trial by Fire series:
#1 Forged — 4 stars
#2 Steel — 4 stars
#3 Phoenix — 5 stars
#4 Iron — 4.5 stars
#5 Branded — 5 stars
December 9, 2021
Beautiful Conclusion
Ryan and Russell have had my heart for awhile now and I truly hate to say goodbye to them; however, their story ends with so much hope and beauty. Ryan is as lovable as ever and still pulls on the heart strings with his past. I will always love him for his perseverance. Russell? I wish everyone had a Russell in their life. He gets Ryan so well and loves him beyond measure. In this installment, we learn exactly what helped make Russell so wonderful…his parents. I adore them! I loved the acceptance and genuine love shown to Ryan. He has always had the love from Russell but he finally gets the love and kindness from a real family. This story (from beginning to end) is so beautifully written. It’s a reminder that regardless of our past, HEA does exist and we are all worthy of one.
Ryan and Russell have had my heart for awhile now and I truly hate to say goodbye to them; however, their story ends with so much hope and beauty. Ryan is as lovable as ever and still pulls on the heart strings with his past. I will always love him for his perseverance. Russell? I wish everyone had a Russell in their life. He gets Ryan so well and loves him beyond measure. In this installment, we learn exactly what helped make Russell so wonderful…his parents. I adore them! I loved the acceptance and genuine love shown to Ryan. He has always had the love from Russell but he finally gets the love and kindness from a real family. This story (from beginning to end) is so beautifully written. It’s a reminder that regardless of our past, HEA does exist and we are all worthy of one.
December 9, 2021
50%...69%...81%...NO. I don't want it to end. 100%. My heart is bursting. I cannot possibly proclaim to you just how much I absolutely adored this book and series. Branded is an extraordinary continuation and conclusion to my favorite series. Yep. Truly. I will never forget these two glorious characters, Ryan and Russell. I became invested in them from the previous books. They compliment one another like no other couple I have ever read about. Russell "gets" Ryan and all his ugly history. Their connection is incredibly seductive, passionate, and powerful. The best part of them is each other. I laughed at their banter. I cried at their words, "Everything." "Loved." "Whenever you get lost, I will always come find you." Branded is the perfect conclusion to the Trial By Fire Series. Utter perfection!
November 28, 2021
Was lucky enough to receive this paperback early, so I had no choice but to devour it. WOW!!! Speechless!!! Ryan is one of my favorite all time book characters. He's just an amazing strong person who has overcome so much. Russell is just an incredible human as well.
SPOILERS BELOW
Ryan and Russell take a road trip to spend the holiday's with Russell's parents and Ryan is understandably nervous. Russell's parents and the rest of of his family are warm caring kind people who welcome Ryan with open arms. This book will have you laughing from Ryan's humor (and of course fart jokes), angry at Ryan's family, and crying both sad and happy tears. Ryan and Russell deserve the best life and Ryan now has the family he always deserved. Ok so maybe I wasn't speechless exactly.
SPOILERS BELOW
Ryan and Russell take a road trip to spend the holiday's with Russell's parents and Ryan is understandably nervous. Russell's parents and the rest of of his family are warm caring kind people who welcome Ryan with open arms. This book will have you laughing from Ryan's humor (and of course fart jokes), angry at Ryan's family, and crying both sad and happy tears. Ryan and Russell deserve the best life and Ryan now has the family he always deserved. Ok so maybe I wasn't speechless exactly.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 12, 2021
If you have read Cole Denton before, then Ryan and Russell need no introduction!
While travelling across country together to spend the holidays with Russell’s family, old doubts and insecurities from Ryan’s traumatic past start to creep in, along with his nightmares, making him fear that he is not good enough and will not be accepted by Russell’s parents and relatives. Branded is the perfect conclusion to this phenomenal series. This book proves how Cole Denton has the remarkable ability to pull you into a story and not let go. Ryan & Russell’s story brings all of the feels. The love they share is passionate and emotional with plenty of humour thrown in. This amazing couple will forever be branded into my heart. I cannot recommend this book and series highly enough. Absolute perfection.
While travelling across country together to spend the holidays with Russell’s family, old doubts and insecurities from Ryan’s traumatic past start to creep in, along with his nightmares, making him fear that he is not good enough and will not be accepted by Russell’s parents and relatives. Branded is the perfect conclusion to this phenomenal series. This book proves how Cole Denton has the remarkable ability to pull you into a story and not let go. Ryan & Russell’s story brings all of the feels. The love they share is passionate and emotional with plenty of humour thrown in. This amazing couple will forever be branded into my heart. I cannot recommend this book and series highly enough. Absolute perfection.
December 13, 2021
An emotional finale to fantastic series!
When I started reading this series a few months ago, I never imagined the raw emotional journey the Trial by Fire series would take me on. Ryan’s upbringing broke my heart. The lasting effects that followed him into adulthood filled me with hate and anger towards his family. Ryan’s resilience and strength filled me with hope. The unshakable love and bond he forms with Russell filled me relief and Ryan’s youthful humor filled me with happiness. In Branded, seeing Ryan’s faith in Russell’s love bloom, filled me with pure joy. This series had me shedding tears of every kind as Cole Denton’s writing packed all of this emotion into an amazing story I’ll never forget.
When I started reading this series a few months ago, I never imagined the raw emotional journey the Trial by Fire series would take me on. Ryan’s upbringing broke my heart. The lasting effects that followed him into adulthood filled me with hate and anger towards his family. Ryan’s resilience and strength filled me with hope. The unshakable love and bond he forms with Russell filled me relief and Ryan’s youthful humor filled me with happiness. In Branded, seeing Ryan’s faith in Russell’s love bloom, filled me with pure joy. This series had me shedding tears of every kind as Cole Denton’s writing packed all of this emotion into an amazing story I’ll never forget.
December 15, 2021
Beautiful ending to the series!!
Ryan and Russell will always have a special place in my heart as it’s the first dark fiction series I read and wow! Cole did an amazing job with this series but this last book is absolutely perfect! It showed how far Ryan has come and how far he still has to go but with Russell by his side, he will never be alone. Cole beautifully captured the love they have for each other and put so much emotion into all of it. It was the perfect ending to this series and left you feeling complete in their story (though I wouldn’t be sad if Coke decided to have them show up again!) Do not miss this beautiful series and be ready for all the feels with this book!!
Ryan and Russell will always have a special place in my heart as it’s the first dark fiction series I read and wow! Cole did an amazing job with this series but this last book is absolutely perfect! It showed how far Ryan has come and how far he still has to go but with Russell by his side, he will never be alone. Cole beautifully captured the love they have for each other and put so much emotion into all of it. It was the perfect ending to this series and left you feeling complete in their story (though I wouldn’t be sad if Coke decided to have them show up again!) Do not miss this beautiful series and be ready for all the feels with this book!!
December 31, 2021
Branded
All his life Ryan was bullied and abused by his parents and older brother, this has damaged him so badly,that he's always thinking he's doing something wrong or going to,offend someone. This has been a great challenge for his loving partner Russell. Ryan constantly has nightmares and flashbacks and suffers with thoughts from triggers.
This is a heartbreaking series but heart-warming as together they overcome all the obstacles that come their way.
Russell takes Ryan home to meet his parents for Christmas causing Ryan what he finds is unessessary angst and anxiety worrying he won't be good enough. Ryan is welcomed by Russell's entire family, a feeling he's never before experienced.
Beautiful heart-warming ending.
Well done again Cole Denton!
All his life Ryan was bullied and abused by his parents and older brother, this has damaged him so badly,that he's always thinking he's doing something wrong or going to,offend someone. This has been a great challenge for his loving partner Russell. Ryan constantly has nightmares and flashbacks and suffers with thoughts from triggers.
This is a heartbreaking series but heart-warming as together they overcome all the obstacles that come their way.
Russell takes Ryan home to meet his parents for Christmas causing Ryan what he finds is unessessary angst and anxiety worrying he won't be good enough. Ryan is welcomed by Russell's entire family, a feeling he's never before experienced.
Beautiful heart-warming ending.
Well done again Cole Denton!
January 19, 2022
Here is the thing…… I almost gave this one only 4 stars because it’s the end of the series 😩. I was lucky to discover it shortly before Branded was published so I could bing read it. There is so much I love about this series so I don’t know which matters the most. I love how how Cole could kept Russel and Ryan’s Story going for 5 books without overdoing it. This final book was a perfect ending, even though I am sad. This book is filled with so much emotion. Ryan had a rough upbringing with abusive and cruel parents and Russell showed him what a great guy he is. Branded showed us a more relaxed and pretty funny Ryan and again a great and caring Russell. I had such a good time reading this one. It’s filled with love, tears, laughter and some hot parts. Highly recommend this Series.
November 29, 2021
This conclusion was epic. I have loved seeing the growth and transformation of both of these characters.
Ryan has really started to show his confidence in himself and when he has his insecure moments Russell is there to show him how special he is.
Russell has remained caring,kind, patient and loving throughout the series but this book shows off his love for Ryan in front of his family. Ryan is still dealing with his family insecurities but this book is just pure love and devotion.
This is a must read if you have followed the journey of Ryan and Russell. It is the conclusion you need for closure with these two strong,amazing males.
Ryan has really started to show his confidence in himself and when he has his insecure moments Russell is there to show him how special he is.
Russell has remained caring,kind, patient and loving throughout the series but this book shows off his love for Ryan in front of his family. Ryan is still dealing with his family insecurities but this book is just pure love and devotion.
This is a must read if you have followed the journey of Ryan and Russell. It is the conclusion you need for closure with these two strong,amazing males.
December 8, 2021
This needs to be on the big screen
This entire book series was just absolutely perfect from the first one to the last. Reading this I felt as if I was watching a movie not reading a book. Cole Denton has a way of capturing his characters in such a light that he gives you just enough details to create the picture perfect scene. This book was the perfect ending to a perfect series and it really should be made into a movie or series because these two characters just run away with your heart
This entire book series was just absolutely perfect from the first one to the last. Reading this I felt as if I was watching a movie not reading a book. Cole Denton has a way of capturing his characters in such a light that he gives you just enough details to create the picture perfect scene. This book was the perfect ending to a perfect series and it really should be made into a movie or series because these two characters just run away with your heart
January 13, 2022
Branded was a beautiful conclusion to Ryan and Russell’s story. In previous books, there has always been an air of mystery surrounding Russell and this story allowed me to connect more with this fascinating character. The heartbreak, the pain and all the horrific memories will always be present for Ryan, but with his growing acceptance of love and acts of kindness, and that he truly deserves them all, his future now looks so positive and bright. This series has been an emotional rollercoaster and will always be forever remembered.
January 31, 2022
Brilliant read!
I cannot get enough of Ryan & Russell - they are the perfect match and everything each other needs to be complete.
Branded - Takes us on a road trip full of fun, laughs and Ryan eating everything insight!, the road trip ends us at Russell's parents, Lily & Stanley are amazing people and shower Ryan with love and give him the family unit he always craved and deserved.
Russell is Ryan's antidote, his everything and Ryan is loved!
Highly recommended series that will break your heart, mend it and leave you smiling and crying happy tears.
I cannot get enough of Ryan & Russell - they are the perfect match and everything each other needs to be complete.
Branded - Takes us on a road trip full of fun, laughs and Ryan eating everything insight!, the road trip ends us at Russell's parents, Lily & Stanley are amazing people and shower Ryan with love and give him the family unit he always craved and deserved.
Russell is Ryan's antidote, his everything and Ryan is loved!
Highly recommended series that will break your heart, mend it and leave you smiling and crying happy tears.
December 8, 2021
Phenomenal!
I'm still processing all the emotions I felt while reading this, which is typical for me with Cole's books, but this particular one may have surpassed all others. What else can I say except I absolutely loved it! This series is the epitome of a love story and this final chapter has everything. I cried, I smiled, I raged, I laughed, I even fanned myself at the hot, sexy scenes, but most of all, I felt the love.
I'm still processing all the emotions I felt while reading this, which is typical for me with Cole's books, but this particular one may have surpassed all others. What else can I say except I absolutely loved it! This series is the epitome of a love story and this final chapter has everything. I cried, I smiled, I raged, I laughed, I even fanned myself at the hot, sexy scenes, but most of all, I felt the love.
December 14, 2021
Wow
What a truly beautiful and amazing story. To see Russell's family embrace and welcome Ryan into their family was truly the most amazing moment and brought tears to my eyes. Russell has truly started Ryan on the road of healing and given him the love he so desperately needed. I'm so sad this story has come to a close. Such an epic live story. A definite must read. Thank you Cole Denton for sharing your amazing writing.
What a truly beautiful and amazing story. To see Russell's family embrace and welcome Ryan into their family was truly the most amazing moment and brought tears to my eyes. Russell has truly started Ryan on the road of healing and given him the love he so desperately needed. I'm so sad this story has come to a close. Such an epic live story. A definite must read. Thank you Cole Denton for sharing your amazing writing.
December 20, 2021
This was the last book of The Trial by Fire series, and what a great way to end the story. I kept putting the book down because I didn't want the story to end. This was my first dark read ever and what a journey it has been. The story broke my heart to know the abuse Ryan was subjected to as he was growing up. But what a beautiful love story between Russell and Ryan and I loved the way Cole ended the series.
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January 3, 2022Wow , wow .
To be branded is to be loved. That is the whole theme of this series and this finale book emphasis what this means. Russell and Ryan's story is the best example of this . Once again you become one with the characters as you read , it is so all consuming and emotional. Thank you once again Cole Denton for sharing this journey with us . Russell and Ryan will be with us always in your writing .
To be branded is to be loved. That is the whole theme of this series and this finale book emphasis what this means. Russell and Ryan's story is the best example of this . Once again you become one with the characters as you read , it is so all consuming and emotional. Thank you once again Cole Denton for sharing this journey with us . Russell and Ryan will be with us always in your writing .
December 10, 2021
Cream of the Crop!
Russell and Ryan's adventures to happiness may have just topped the series! The happiness and love that these too have far exceeds anything a past filled with torment could bring. The laughter these too have had me in stiches. Bravo!!!
Absolutely my favorite couple ever! Branded the heart!
Russell and Ryan's adventures to happiness may have just topped the series! The happiness and love that these too have far exceeds anything a past filled with torment could bring. The laughter these too have had me in stiches. Bravo!!!
Absolutely my favorite couple ever! Branded the heart!
December 13, 2021
Cole saved the best for last!
Cole wrote the perfect ending to this series.
Ryan and Russell's story is definitely one you will never forget. Branded truly made me laugh and cry . Cole truly out did himself with this book. You need to read this whole series
Ryan and Russell will touch your heart.
Cole wrote the perfect ending to this series.
Ryan and Russell's story is definitely one you will never forget. Branded truly made me laugh and cry . Cole truly out did himself with this book. You need to read this whole series
Ryan and Russell will touch your heart.
December 15, 2021
Beautiful
Trial by Fire has been my favorite Cole Denton series, however Branded has surpassed them all. Cole gives us a story that has enough depth to touch the heart, but has a lighter side that was both fun and sexy. Ryan had a horrible childhood that would crush most of us, but with Russell he soars. I hope there will be more of Ryan and Russell's story in the future.
Trial by Fire has been my favorite Cole Denton series, however Branded has surpassed them all. Cole gives us a story that has enough depth to touch the heart, but has a lighter side that was both fun and sexy. Ryan had a horrible childhood that would crush most of us, but with Russell he soars. I hope there will be more of Ryan and Russell's story in the future.
December 25, 2021
Such a rollercoaster of emotions
Wow! What a great ending to a series! I would love to revisit them 5-10 years down the road! It’s crazy to read how much Ryan grew throughout the series. His story is heart wrenching and beautiful at the same time! Russell is the perfect match for him!
Wow! What a great ending to a series! I would love to revisit them 5-10 years down the road! It’s crazy to read how much Ryan grew throughout the series. His story is heart wrenching and beautiful at the same time! Russell is the perfect match for him!
February 8, 2022
Wow, what a book! Russell and Ryan are the perfect couple. Ryan is so lovable, serious at times, and has a great funny side too! Russell is the more serious one but can bring Ryan back from nightmares or triggers from his past. He lives Ryan so much. The perfect life and couple. Just an awesome book!
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