Stolen Valor: A Carson Brand Novel

Carson Brand #1

by Craig Rainey

Carson Brand and his best friend Bert cross the Mexican border for a night out. Brand doesn’t know about his friend’s secret association with the Cartel. He also doesn’t know this will be his last night with Bert. Brand’s life changes forever when he enters a world of human trafficking, drug dealers, and murder. He is pursued by deadly Sicarios, sought by federal and state authorities, seduced then betrayed by the lovely Christina. Involved as deeply with the huge crime organization as his friend Bert had been, Brand must rely on his inherent toughness and limited experience to keep him alive. The first in the Carson Brand series, Stolen Valor opens a door to the reality behind the daily news headlines. presenting a shocking view of a dark world that exists next door to our homes and schools.

378 pages, Kindle Edition

First published April 9, 2019

About the author

Craig Rainey (b. 1962) is an American film actor, author, screenwriter, and musician with deep Texas roots dating back to the original impresario settlers under Stephen F. Austin. Born in San Angelo, Texas, and currently residing in Austin, Rainey’s diverse life experiences—from serving as a military veteran to working as a professional cowboy in South Texas—have profoundly shaped his storytelling. In addition to being a seasoned sales trainer and motivational speaker, Rainey brings a rich blend of grit and authenticity to his writing.

His fiction works include the gripping Western Massacre at Agua Caliente and the popular Carson Brand series, which features titles like Stolen Valor and Dark Motive. In the non-fiction realm, Rainey’s The Art of Professional Sales: Handbook for the Career Seller (2020) has become a go-to resource for sales professionals seeking practical, no-nonsense advice.

As a screenwriter, Rainey has garnered multiple accolades, including Best Screenplay (2023, 2024), Best Narrative Period Piece, Most Likely to be Produced as a Movie, and numerous Official Selections. His breakout success came with his award-winning script for Massacre at Agua Caliente, which earned him the title of Best Breakout Writer.

Reviews

[David Bryan · Rating 3 out of 5]

Alright, there I was, totally enjoying this novel by Mr. Rainey, he showed restraint in describing fights and battle scenes, not having one or two Average Joes demolishing ten to twelve assailants at a time, well, until he later began doing just that. My need to drop this book from my five star rating to a mere three star was only tempered because the first 2/3 of this read was so good.
I got to Chapter 39 and read through the excitement, really glued to the book, then turned the page only to find that Chapter 39 was repeated, word for word, as Chapter 40. What the Heck? OK, fine, then we roll along and finish the final chapter with our hero hitchhiking in a semi to the Houston area, presumably to rescue Christina, his damsel in distress from sex trade slavery. Turn the page and suddenly we have the Epilogue, with our hero Brand in a prison and involved in an Ultimate Fighting match for the amusement of the prison guards??? Followed by The End, huh??? Color me discouraged and disappointed . . .

[paulette sarelli · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great thriller

This book kept you on your toes until the end. Lots of insight into the world of drug cartels. Loved the main character Brand. The best part was the twist at the end. Can't wait to read the next book.

[Franky King · Rating 5 out of 5]

A thrilling novel that kept me on edge. I was eager to know what's going to happen next. A 5 start book for sure. I recommend.

[Wallace Glen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Stolen Valor by Craig Rainey was a great experience. The story was well thought out and captivating. I'm interested to read the next in the series.

[Dwight Thompson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Interesting journey for Brand. Will enjoy
future stories about the "Black Dog" syndrome.