He's a fierce protector of his land and sacred heritage—and only a strong woman can capture his wild heart... Dillon Iron Feather is dangerous and he knows it. Hardened by his championship fighting career, he returns to his remote Colorado ranch to heal, only to discover that city girl Tessa Grove is determined to stake her claim to the old mine she inherited on a corner of his land. Stubborn to the bone, Tessa soon digs up precious gems from deep within the earth to use in her custom-made jewelry business. But those stones turn out to be sacred, and sparks fly as they begin to guide her to the secret chambers of Dillon's heart.
Iron Feather Brothers Series: Meet the Iron Feather Brothers—they’re tough, they’re dangerous, and family means everything to them. Whether it’s living up to their ancestor’s outlaw reputation or brandishing their own style of justice, these men have each other’s backs. And it takes very special women to get under their skin and untangle their barbed-wire hearts in order to find love in this contemporary western romance series set in the Rocky Mountains.
USA TODAY bestselling author Diane J. Reed writes happily ever afters with a touch of magic that make you believe in the power of love. Her stories feed the soul with outlaws, mavericks, and dreamers who have big hearts under big skies and dare to risk all for those they cherish. Because love is more than a feeling—it’s the magic that changes everything.
Turquoise Mountain is book one in the brand new series, Iron Feather Brothers, by Diane J. Reed. I have read a few of Diane’s books in the past so when I found out about this new series I was so excited to give it a try. I’m so glad I did.
Tessa Grove is a gifted jeweler who dreamed of a career in New York. Instead she ended up working for a creepy boss in what was practically a sweat shop designing jewelry but never getting credit for it. Everything changed the day she received a mysterious box in the mail. Her grandfather had passed away and the box contained something he left her. Rights to an old mine in Colorado and perhaps the chance at a new life. The box also contained a white feather that seemed to give Tessa the courage to finally reach for her dream.
“I’m going to make a name for myself in this world. No more being a number.”
Dillon Iron Feather is one of three brothers living in Bandits Hollow, Colorado. The boys lost their parents at a young age and were raised on a ranch for wayward boys. Now, all three boys carry unseen scars from those days. Dillon carries an anger that he fueled into an MMA fighting career until something happened that forced him to walk away from it. Now he lives a quiet life in an old cabin in Colorado, until a feisty woman shows up on his property claiming rights to the mine that sits on it.
“The world has not been kind to you, Miss Grove. It’s written all over your face. But you’re living on hope anyway.”
Tessa and Dillon are off to a pretty rocky start but soon form a bond which quickly grows into more. They also discover that they are tied together in ways they never imagined that date back to their ancestors. Dillon teaches Tessa the ways of his people and Tessa teaches Dillon about her art of jewelry making. Together they pull beautiful turquoise from the mine which they then design into lovely, artistic pieces of jewelry.
This was a beautiful and mystical story. There are forces at work that are helping these two to find each other and to help each other to rid the shadows from their pasts. But there is also danger on the mountain. There are others that are greedy and will do anything, hurt anyone that stands in their way, of finding what they want.
I enjoyed this book. It was so unique the way the author wove together the romance and a bit of suspense together with the mystical forces of Dillon’s ancestors. Dillon’s brother, Barrett, works for the Bandits Hollow Police Department. I look forward to the next book in this series, Skystone Canyon, which will be his story.
I have to admit that it wasn’t the cover or the blurb that caught my attention, it was the little excerpt I read that did it, because how could a scene that involved the main characters, a shotgun and bailing twine NOT capture my attention. Well, after reading that I had no choice but to make grabby hands at the book and I’m really happy I did. Turquoise Mountain was a fun, quick and sweet yet sexy read filled with interesting characters, a lot of heart and with a good dose of Native American mysticism/woven into it that kept me turning the pages to see just what would happen next.
I loved Dillon and Tessa. Tessa is a spitfire, she is a little impulsive, which can get her into sticky situations, but the reason behind it all is sound. Her determination to forge a better future for herself is something I admired, as was the way she didn’t back down from much, even when the odds were against her. Dillon’s reputation for being dangerous isn’t too far off the mark, and it’s one which he cultivates with ease thanks to his imposing stature, but beneath the darkness is a man with a huge and genuine heart and a sly sense of humor that only comes out with those he trusts.
After they way first collided, which I definitely wouldn’t put in the meet cute category, Dillon and Tessa’s journey to their HEA could have gone in a very different direction, but I really liked how everything between them played out. Things do progress quickly, but it worked for me because they ended up in a situation where they got to really know each other and didn’t bother with games or attempting to force each other to do the mind reading thing. There was a little drama, but nothing angsty OTT and the chemistry between them was all kinds of sweet and smexy.
This is my first read by the author and I really enjoyed it. The writing was engaging, the pacing of the story was done well and I enjoyed the first person POV. What made this read fun for me was how the Native American, Apache to be specific, mysticism and wisdom was woven into the story and the part it played in Dillon and Tessa’s journey, not only to their HEA, but on their own separate ones as well. It was done well and respectful and I loved the depth it gave the story. And as for the secondary characters, they were all well written, though Nell is my favorite of the bunch, and the bits and pieces we were given of Barrett’s and Lander’s personalities have me wanting to know more about them both right now. So, it’s time to practice patience until the next book comes out!
~ Copy provided by the author & voluntarily reviewed ~
Dillon Iron Feather and his brothers Barrett and Lander had a difficult young life. After they lost their parents in an automobile accident, they were put in a juvenile delinquent program where they spent a miserable adolescence. It toughened them up and prepared them for the world. That’s where Dillon learned to defend himself and his brothers, they were prime targets. He later put those skills to work for him when he became a professional cage fighter. After and unfortunate incident in the cage, Dillon disappeared to the land he and his brothers inherited and was living a quiet, secluded life until “she” arrived and ended his peace and quiet.
At twenty-five, Tessa Grove was on her own, working for a smarmy man by the name of Author Jacquier. She created beautiful, high end designer jewelry and for that received sweat shop compensation. An unexpected note she received in the mail gave her an opportunity to change her life for the better. She packed up what she needed and took off for Colorado to claim an inheritance that just might give her the life she desired, one where she was able to design and market her own jewelry creations….one hitch, she could only access her mine by crossing Dillon’s property and he was not in the mood to allow her access. Game On!
Growing up in New York wasn’t easy and Tessa learned a thing or two, like standing up for herself. These skills she put to good use when she encountered Dillon…I think he likes that sassy side but he is not letting on. As they learn to interact with one another, a bond develops between them. Tessa needs Dillon’s help and protection…he needs her to bring out his protective nature and drop his walls. Watching them interact is fascinating and goes a long way on building the story, their past and a future they are working to create.
It’s not accident Tessa was brought to Bandits Hollow. Everything she and Dillon encounter brings them closer together...it is as if they were destined to be together, making this journey. But they are not alone. Ancient mystery guides and speaks to each of them, letting them know they are on a path.
This is a story about two individuals who had to learn how to navigate life when difficulty often blocked their paths. They learn how to journey together and find a future that is waiting for them, if they follow the guidance and signs given them. There is danger, joy, some heat... and if they work together they may find closure they both need to help them navigate life.
This is my first Diane Reed but I am positive it will not be my last. I was fortunate and received a reader copy and am pleased to report it was a home run. Great story, wonderful characters, plenty of mystery and intrigue, some serious chemistry and enough danger lurking that will have you clenching your teeth. No cliffhangers and an HEA. What more could you ask for? Lovely job. Oh, and I am smiling from ear to ear ever since I finished it!
I voluntarily reviewed an advance reader copy of this book.
I fell in love with this book right from the start everything around you starts to fade away as you lose yourself in the words and the story! The author has created this amazing and beautiful world that is set in the Colorado Mountains.. with her stunning and vivid descriptions that captures your imagination it gives you the sense and feeling that you're really there living and walking among the characters and feeling what they're feeling! you get this feeling of being transported into another world! The story is addicting, entertaining, suspenseful, and equal parts romantic! It flows well and always holds your attention! it was so much fun to read! The characters Dillon and Tessa are alot of fun I enjoyed they're dynamic ... the city girl meets cowboy who didn't hit it off at first (really funny scene that had me laughing) but it didn't take long for them to come together and start trusting each other. it's really fun when the characters start changing before your eyes.. you watch them change and grow and it's really special! This book is really amazing and has something everyone can enjoy! I look forward to seeing what might come next for the Ironfeather Brothers!
Endearingly fresh! Diane J. Reed brings a setting to life that whisks us into the middle of this native culture without blinking an eye. I was intrigued by the first glimpse into the hero's life, then the spunk of the heroine immediately had me smiling and settling in to enjoy this roller coaster of romance, sass and magical happily-ever-afters! I'm looking forward to more in the series!
MMA fighter Dillon Iron Feather walked away at the height of his career because he saw himself losing control. He wants only to be left to the solace of his peace and quiet around his remote cabin in Colorado. What better way to heal his soul than to reconnect with nature and his ancestors? He doesn't expect to have that tranquility disturbed by a feisty city girl!
Tessa Grove is striking out on her own and following a dream that she's been scared to allow to shine through! She inherited a mine at the corner of Dillon's land and she's bound and determined to tap it and forge her custom jewelry career from the treasures she finds. She doesn't expect to be met with resistance in the form of a massive scowling man toting a gun and planning to fire first and ask questions later! When circumstances lead to Dillon aiding her in her quest, they soon realize the sparks between them are real and there's going to be no ignoring them!
What begins as a matter of pride becomes the most haunting of romances. Turquoise Mountain is a tale of honor, legacy and long withheld truths. Dillon has pride, heart and an affinity with nature's bountiful beauty. Tessa has a knack for stirring up trouble with her inquisitive nature and mischievous spirit. The descriptive dialogue gives readers a taste of a scenery that is beautiful, yet mysterious. There is always another secret to uncover and another issue to fight through. However, Diane Reed blends the courage of the human spirit with a romance that is as intriguing as it dangerous and delivers an ethereal tale that is not easily forgotten and not to be missed.
Reading this book was such an easy task. Instantly, I fell in love with Tessa and Dillon. They were both stubborn but yet at the same time they got along well. Ms. Reed does a great job of writing this story. She transported me to Colorado. Although, I must admit that it was not hard to imagine the location that this story took place in as I live in Colorado.
Another aspect of this story that I enjoyed a lot was the authenticity that Ms. Reed gave this story. It was like I was also getting a bit of a history lesson with Dillon and the great importance of turquoise to Native Americans.
Lastly, the romance. No "instalove" here. No, Dillon and Tessa got to know each other first before they shared any intimate moments together. So it felt more real when they did hook up. This is a good first book to this series. Which, I can't wait to read the next book in this series.
Refreshingly original and magically unique storyline that captured my mind and heart from the very start with the most intense MMA fight scene that gave me the chills. An amazing start to the story, and that intensity held through the tale. It is memorable, sweet yet filled with passion, honest yet riddled with crooks. It breaks the mold of a typical romance novel. It jumps right into the Native American culture that I was in awe of, the supernatural that seemed so logical and acceptable. I loved and admired the whole aspect of the brothers legacy, the history of the family and how it was bonded to the past of the heroine and to her family legacy as well. The crooks trying to get what wasn't theirs, the threats and trouble they created brought another level of intensity to the tale with explosive twist and turns. It wasn't enough that they fought against nature's power, the evil of the human beings was lurking around as well. The instant connection between Dillon Iron Feather and Tessa Grove was aided by the generations relations between the families. They both had lost parents at the early age, they both had faced moments during their careers that changed their lives forever. Tessa was a strong, capable, able woman. Her art was outstanding, I could imagine the pieces in my mind. She was fearless, and the easy way she embraced the culture of Dillon's family was admirable, showing there was no need for adversity or discrimination because of the different ways of lives. Dillon is a tough man to read, yet there is a caring heart of gold inside that warrior. The family is everything to him, he embraces the family history, the pass, the culture of Native American's and their way to live. He has his obstacles to overcome, but with the help of Tessa, who seems like was sent from the heavens to his path, nothing is impossible to them. A true western story with living, loving, passion, and fear. There is the fight to survive against the force of nature. There is the fight to your own right to live and exist to be true to yourself. And there is the fight against what is right and what is wrong, and it all is wrapped up in one entertaining, intriguing, intense, and ardent package, that was a pleasure to read and experience. ~ Four Spoons with a teaspoon on the side
I was extremely eager to read this book given the Native American focus and how rare that seems to be in the contemporary romance genre, and it did not disappoint! The main characters were entertaining, the cultural background fascinating, and the romance thrilling. I read it in one day, becoming so engrossed in the story that I had a hard time leaving it to do my day job. Sadly, my boss would probably not be happy if I explained my lack of progress was due to a really good book!
Tessa Grove has finally kicked her pervert boss to the curb and struck out on her own. Having recently inherited an old mine from her grandfather, she sees a golden opportunity to finally fulfill her dream of running her own company designing jewelry. However, her starry-eyed vision of happiness is brutally shot down when a man living on the land surrounding her mine literally shoots at her - or rather, into the air above her. Hog-tied and hauled into a police vehicle driven by the man's brother, it does not seem an auspicious start to a romance. But this is Dillon Iron Feather's odd version of courting, it seems, as circumstances throw them together and romance quickly blossoms. Can their love withstand the storm that is about to hit them, or will it be doomed from the start?
Tessa and Dillon were a really affectionate couple, in a bigger way than just the typical sexual manner. They genuinely cared about each other almost from the beginning, and while Dillon appeared at first to be quite the alpha male, Tessa gave as good as she got, which I loved. Being that Dillon had a Native American heritage and was raised to respect the land and animals around him, it was particularly inspiring as the author taught us about his unique ways of hunting. Tessa at first appeared to be out of her element at first, but Dillon's patience and her bravery showed another side to her that was exciting to see. There was some conflict in the story, which was sorted a bit too quickly for my preference, but it was done well and added to the story to make it more meaningful. In the end, the book taught me many lessons, and it became much more than a romance.
I read this book not realizing that it was the first in a series, and I can't tell you how excited I am that there will be another book following this one! I am eager to read more about the Iron Feather brothers and can't wait to see what's in store for them.
**I received a free copy from the author and this is my honest review.**
For some time now Tessa Grove has dreamed of leaving her life behind in the big city, and heading to a place that holds so many wonderful memories for her, her grandfather's small ranch was a favorite place to visit as a child, and now she would like to make it her hometown too. When she learns that due to his passing she is now the proud owner of a mining cave that has been in her family for generations, she can't wait to pack her things and head to Colorado in hopes of discovering some beautiful gems for her jewelry business. After working for a overbearing tyrant the last few years, and having him steal her designs, she is more than ready to open her own shop, create beautiful pieces for customers to enjoy... but in order to get to said mine she must deal with a grumpy neighboring landowner who has no intentions of letting her get to her mine!!
The moment Dillon Iron Feathers eyes land on the beautiful woman invading his territory he is ready to send her packing in the other direction, he's not in the mood to deal with others, especially one who claims she has rights to his land. But for some reason she doesn't seem to heed his warning, and it irritates the heck out of him, why can't she just leave well enough alone... and him too!
Turquoise Mountain is a mesmerizing and magical tale that is sure to win the hearts of romance readers, with it's touching and emotionally rich story line, it will speak to your heart and leave you moved! This was my first book by this author and I have to say her well crafted tale completely won me over, from the very first page I was pulled into these characters lives, and completely taken with them, they were so captivating that I couldn't put the book down! I highly recommend you take a chance on this one, it is one of those reads that is riddled with many memorable moments that are destined to stick with you for a while.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this title.
“You can always make a buck, Tessa. But you can’t always find a heart that fits yours. That kind of magic is…rare.”
Until recently, I must confess, I hadn’t heard of or read Diane J. Reed, so when I was offered Turquoise Mountain to review, I wasn’t sure. On one hand, it looked different to anything I’d read before. But on the other hand, it looked different to anything I’d read before . . .
It felt like a risk, reading a book from an author I was unfamiliar with, but it was a risk that most definitely paid off. This book was unique and engaging. It was well-written and had a ring of authenticity to it. Whether that’s true or not, I honestly can’t say, but it felt genuine.
It also felt more than a little bit magical. I really enjoyed the way Ms. Reed wrapped her romance up in the mystical. After all, love is its own kind of magic. For Tessa and Dillon that proved to be true. It helped to have that edge of whimsy on the side of these two lovers—it made the whirlwind speed of their romance that much more believable, just as it made the suspense that much more heart-racing.
And it helped me get that much more pleasure from reading this book. I may be left with a couple of lingering questions, but mostly, I’m left with a sense that I just read something unique, sexy and fun.
Something worth taking a risk on.
For a long time, his silence did all the talking. What she saw in his eyes was pain. Sadness. And a pierced longing.
I instantly felt transported while reading Turquoise Mountain. This book has so much atmosphere and this wonderful mystical aspect that I have come to love and expect from Reed's writing. She's always able to make every page feel like magic. It just really felt like something special from the very beginning and had me completely captivated. I loved the feisty heroine and when she meets Dillion for the first time it was hysterical and such fun. I've always enjoyed a story where the characters did not get along upon first meeting, yet later fall in love. What can I say? I don't like things to be too easy. It definitely wasn't too easy for Tessa and Dillion as they face many obstacles together as they get to know each other and fall in love. They have this slow burn sizzling chemistry that's super hot! There's definitely more to it than that though. I really liked that the story was just as much about the culture and suspense as it was the romance. It's certainly a unique story and unlike anything else that I have read. I have had the pleasure of reading some of Reed's other books and was pleasantly surprised with some of the small details that connected with another series of books. Don't worry if you haven't read the other books you won't be in the dark, but it definitely added to the interest level for me. I absolutely loved Turquoise Mountain and I cannot wait to read the next book and find out more about these fascinating brothers. Highly recommended!!!
** I received this book from the author and voluntarily reviewed it.**
A wonderful contemporary western small town romance!
I started the Iron Feather Brothers series with My Forever Cowboy and I absolutely loved it! I couldn’t wait to read the next book in the series. Turquoise Mountain was unputdownable. The novel has plenty of drama, action, and swoon-worthy romance.
Dillon Iron Feather is a sexy alpha MMA fighter who returns to his hometown for some rest and recuperation in his remote and rustic cabin in the Rocky Mountains. He’s surly but sweet, protective yet thoughtful.
Tessa Grove is looking for a new start in the small mountain town of Bandit’s Hollow. She’s got spunk and she’s determined to start her new business making jewelry with the turquoise she mines herself.
There are plenty of sparks (and even some gunshots) when these two strong-willed characters meet for the first time, but their attraction is unforgettable.
The author has crafted a story which includes a bit of Dillon’s Native American ancestry and the history of the Iron Feather brothers. There’s a little magic, animal folklore, outlaws, and redemption woven into this beautifully told western romance. Great story and great writing!
This book will have you hooked from the very beginning, Ms Reed has a way with words that draws you in and you understand what the characters are feeling. The plot is not your basic romance but it has a touch of mystical air about it that is typical in Native American culture that makes the book so much more interesting. Tessa is such a strong woman and it shows in the fact that even though she is described as a responsible person, she wanted to become a jewelry designer and decided not only to move to another state but basically start from zero all on her own. And then there's Dillon who has fought his demons since a young age and it only got worse when he hurt someone. The scene where he meets that person he hurt and his son was very emotional. So I highly recommend this book and you will not be disappointed. I received a complimentary copy of the book and I'm voluntarily leaving a review
This book is slightly different from what I usually tend to read. I think this is the first book I’ve read with a Native American type theme, really depicting their beliefs, spirits, and old traditions. Honestly, if the blurb would have mentioned this, I probably wouldn’t have requested a copy. I’m so glad it didn’t, or I would have missed out on a great book!
I really enjoyed watching the relationship between Dillon and Tessa bloom and grow. Along with their story, we are treated to a wonderfully written story with mystery, drama, honor, loyalty, legacy, pride, and redemption. The plot was unique and intriguing and kept your attention throughout the entire book.
**I requested and received an advanced reader copy, and this is my un-biased opinion**
A wonderful read. Love this author. My first of her books and I will be reading more. This is exciting, emotional, sweet, suspenseful, mysterious, enjoyable and one you just can't put down. He is very much an alpha male and she is a feisty woman. They each have something hanging onto them and have to resolve what has them fighting. I recommend it. I was given a review copy and voluntarily review it.
What a great read!!! I love stories about native Americans and their beliefs. This story was amazing and included lots of them. The characters and the plot was so interesting I couldn't put it down, and this is one of the first in this genre that I have read. I am looking forward to more.
I don't usually read much romance these days, but this book caught my eye. I liked the fact that both of the main characters had flaws but they didn't 'fix' each other nor did they simply ignore their own troubles. There were some parts of the plot, the spiritual aspects, that I would have liked to see expanded. The writing was crisp and clear, Ms. Reed wrote the book tightly with no loose ends, which is important to me.
Dillon Iron Feather and his two brothers were raised on a ranch for wayward boys in Colorado. Tessa Groves grew up in New York and took care of her mother when she became ill. Two people from opposite sides of the country their lives intersect when she inherits a mine on his ranch. They both had trials in their lives and were working to overcome them. While Dillon had pretty much given up and was hiding on his ranch, Tessa came to that same ranch to solve her problems. This is a nice light read.
Enjoyed the read! It was magical as I expected, love to get lost in Diane's magical world and writing. The book got me hooked from chapter one. Loved Dillon and Tessa, their romance was sweet and how they supported each other. And got more excited how characters from the Robbin in the Hood series were mentioned. Excited for the series. Got the book in exchange of an honest review.
"Turquoise Mountain (Iron Feather Brothers Book 1)" by Diane J. Reed is my first from this author. WOW! I loved this story between ex MMA fighter Dillon Iron Feather and Tessa Grove. We get the beautiful setting of the Colorado Mountains, and a modern Western romance that is so good you don't want to put the book down.
From the first chapter this book will have you not just reading but seeing the characters and feeling them. An adventure that you don't want to put down, full of mystery that keeps you turning the page. I would highly recommend this book.
I want to start of by once again reiterating the fact that it took me a long time to finish this book ONLY because of my school work. It had nothing to do with the content and/or quality of this book. From the moment I started reading Turquoise Mountain, I was immediately immersed into Dillon and Tessa's worlds. As a Cherokee American, I very much enjoyed the rich inclusion of the Apache language (Jicarilla), as well as the Apache culture and customs. This book has a beautiful blend of action, suspense, romance, and adventure, as well as vivid imagery that transports you straight into the Colorado mountains. I have to say that I was skeptical of the relationship development between Dillon and Tessa at first because I was fearful that it would seem rushed or insincere to readers. I, however, was pleasantly surprised. Though the relationship might seem to move quite quickly to some readers, like me, it did not feel awkward or forced. It is a perfect example of what meeting the one destined for you is like, suddenly realizing that you've finally found your home. Dillon and Tessa, as well as several other characters in this story, are so three-dimensional, with emotional complexity and tremendously written backstories that impact the characters in their day-to-day lives. It definitely helped contribute to the depth of this story. Overall, this book was a great read, and I can't wait to read the next one (Skystone Canyon)!
Really enjoyed this book, the first I have read from Ms. Reed. I especially liked the fact that she shows the spirituality of Dillon Iron Feather. I also like the stubbornest of Tessa and how she makes the adventure readable. I received an ARC for my honest opinion.
Not sure how we're to get past the cover with a man as sexy as him..lol.. But I finally made to the first page was was sucked right in. This book is so so so good! Loved the characters! Have fallen in love with western stories and this book was no surprise to hold up to what I love about them!
This book has the right amount of Romance, and Outlaws, and Good Guys, all rolled in to one. It really talks about the heritage of the Indians, and the way it help the main character in the book in the present day. It kept me wanting to read more and keep turning the pages. I have read many of her books, and they are all just equally as good. Highly recommend.
I saw the cover and knew I had to read this book. It drew me in. The story-line is different, enticing and wonderful. There’s mystery, a bit of fantasy (or is it), and, romance. Dillon lived alone with his tasks to make a living; Tessa designed and made jewelry; and, together they made a duo to take on the world of beauty using amazing stones. I loved the book!
I really enjoyed this story. This book has everything I look for and I found it to be entertaining and hard to put down. I am voluntarily reviewing an advanced reader copy. This is the first book by Ms. Reed that I've read, but I will be following her for the rest of this series.
My first by this author, but not the last. A man filled with pride, a woman filled spirit what a great commination. You won't want to miss this one. I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
Couldn't put it down. Loved the blend of magic and history and the description of the setting made me want to go visit. Soon! Best read I've had in a while.
This is the first book I read from this author. I’m so glad I did. From the first page till the end, I didn’t know what I would be reading. Can’t wait to read the next book in this series.