Review: Review posted at Heather's Blog
Rating: 4 out of 5
Date: 06 18, 2011
Tangled Past by Leah Braemel* I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review*Sarah has been treated like hired help rather than family since her mother passed away.  She doesn't owe the McLeod's any loyalty but she is still stunned by his reaction when he comes to the barn that night.  She never expected her life to change like it did that night she went to the barn to warn the strangers of her brothers plan.Nate and Jackson are more than friends; they are lovers in a very dangerous world.  If they get caught, there is the chance that they will hang from the nearest tree.  When they set out to buy horses, they never expected to bring home a bride with them too.Jackson loves Nate but he has taken vows and he intends to honor them and be a good husband for Sarah.  Sarah is slowly falling in love with Jackson but she is afraid he will never be able to love her like he does Nate.  He is a good husband and provider but it seems like he is holding a part of himself back.After Nate's accident, Sarah realizes how much both of these men mean to her.  When Jackson purposes a way to include Nate, at first she's hesitant but when she sees how much it means to him, she agrees.  She can't believe how wonderful it is between the three of them, she thinks she should feel guilty but she doesn't.  Nate comes up with the perfect solution to their living arrangement and they take him up on his offer.The scenes between Nate and Jackson are tender and loving but filled with intensity.  It's obvious they care about each other but they can't have an open relationship because it was unheard of during the 1800's.  Their love for Sarah is just as strong and the three of them find a way to make their relationship work.The Wild West unfolds right before your eyes.  While most of the story focuses on ranch life, you also get a glimpse into the dangers ranchers faced, such as rustlers.The characters are compelling while their relationships are complex.  Their story pulls you in right from the beginning.  The cast of secondary characters is limited but each character is needed.  I loved learning more about Jackson's family and the twist was a nice surprise.I really enjoyed learning the family history of the Dillon's family from Texas Tangle.  I loved Tangled Past and give it 4 Flaming Hearts.