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Switchback: A Mountain Ranch Novel

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As an only child of a bold Colorado rancher, Laney McRae has grown up confident in herself and fiercely self-reliant. Romance hasn’t entered her world since the disastrous end to her high school love affair, and she has all but given up on men. When a new sheriff arrives in town he instantly ignites a flame she’s never before encountered, but the new relationship may not survive the demands of her forward personality. When strange events begin to unfold on the ranch, it quickly becomes clear that she is being targeted by someone with a deadly intent, and she struggles to assert her independence amid the turmoil. As events escalate, she will be left fighting not only for the love she deserves, but also for her own life.

140 pages, Kindle Edition

Published July 28, 2020

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Willa J. Brand

3 books3 followers

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Displaying 1 - 5 of 5 reviews
Profile Image for Julie - One Book More.
1,411 reviews240 followers
August 4, 2020
Switchback, a contemporary fiction novel, focuses on Laney, a confident and self-assured rancher who has strong ties to her community and strong relationships with her parents. When she meets Nolan, the new Sheriff and band-mate of her friends, there is an instant attraction, and they begin dating. Both have not had luck in love and are slow to admit how strong their feelings are.

But when strange things start happening on her ranch, Laney suspects that it is more than just a string of bad luck. Who could want to harm Laney? Nolan is determined to find out, and not just because he is the Sheriff. Can Laney and Nolan figure out who is targeting her and her ranch before it’s too late?

The second book in the Mountain Ranch series, Switchback is a quick and interesting contemporary romance. The characters are well-developed as is the plot, which grips you from the start with the threat of an avalanche. I enjoyed reading about Laney and Nolan’s blossoming romance as well as the trials and tribulations they encounter throughout the first year of their relationship.

One thing I like about Willa J. Brand’s stories, in addition to the wonderful romances, is that they also examine bigger issues. In Switchback, for example, both main characters have baggage and struggle with their feelings about past relationships. Because of their issues, Nolan and Laney hesitate to take their relationship to the next level.

Laney struggles with her feelings quite a bit throughout the story. Because she felt things were left unfinished with her ex-boyfriend Cole, she doesn’t have the closure she needs to move on. Guilt and fear stand in her way. For Nolan, it’s fear and the bitter sting of a past betrayal. They both have experienced the ending of relationships in the past and avoid commitment because of it. They care deeply for each other but fear gets in the way, and they have to understand their past failures before they can take the next step.

The mystery surrounding the troubles happening around Laney’s ranch also causes complications in her romantic relationship. Since Nolan is the Sheriff, he must distance himself while he investigates. A consummate professional, he doesn’t want his personal feelings for Laney to influence the investigation. Of course, since he cares for her, his determination to solve the case is great. This results in an interesting balance between duty and desire.

Another aspect of Brand’s stories that I like is the integration of strong, supportive, and likable characters. In Switchback, Laney has a wonderful relationship with her father and great friendships as well. Her relationship with her mother, while long-distance, is also strong. I like that Brand examines the benefits of different relationships and shows the strength of family bonds and friendship.

A heartwarming story with suspense, intrigue, and a surprise twist that I didn’t see coming, Switchback is a great contemporary romance. I enjoyed the story, the relatable characters, and the romance. Thanks so much to the author for a copy of the book in exchange for my honest review.

https://onebookmore.com/2020/08/04/re...
50 reviews3 followers
August 18, 2020
This is the second book in the Mountain Ranch series, of which both books follow an independent storyline. As in Refuge (see my review here), Willa’s writing glides over the pages of Switchback to unfold a romantic thriller. Laney, the main character, is coming to terms with an incident from her past when she meets the town sheriff, Nolan; they both feel an instant attraction. As their relationship grows Laney realises that she could build a future with Nolan. However, someone has other ideas, and Laney finds her life in danger. Laney makes it clear that she can take care of herself and does not need rescuing especially from the hunky sheriff Nolan. Events unfold with Laney soon accepting that we all need rescuing sometimes. Another good read from Willa Brand! Kept me guessing until the end.

I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
1,993 reviews34 followers
August 3, 2020
I was so happy to be asked to read and review the second book in the mountain ranch series, I loved the first book which is called Refuge and this one was just as brilliant. I looked forward to the next instalment. I liked Laney and felt as though she was a strong and confident woman, she has not had the best relationships or guys in the past so when a new hunky guy turns up in her town she can't wait to introduce herself. I did worry what would become of their relationship as Laney is so confident and forward. But then things start to happen and I was worried for Laney, the ending was dramatic and I really want to read the next book as I just love all these characters.
Profile Image for Vikki Vaught.
Author 13 books159 followers
August 23, 2020
An excellent romantic suspense novel with intriguing characters and great plot.I enjoyed this book and it has some exciting moment with plenty of emotion. Happy ☺reading 📚!
4 reviews
August 22, 2023
I really enjoyed this one! Not just a sappy love story, it kept me guessing all the way.
I see a growth in Brand's writing from her first novel Refuge, looking forward to seeing more!
Displaying 1 - 5 of 5 reviews