Branded   By: Francis Lynde (1856-1930)

Branded by Francis Lynde is a riveting novel that will keep readers on the edge of their seats until the very last page. Set in the rugged American West during the late 19th century, this intense Western tale is a perfect blend of action, mystery, and romance.

The story follows the journey of Jack Hollis, a rancher, who finds himself entangled in a web of deceit and danger after being wrongly accused of a crime he did not commit. As he becomes a fugitive, his main objective becomes clearing his name and restoring his reputation. Along the way, Jack encounters an array of intriguing characters, each with their own hidden motives and agendas. Through well-developed dialogues and vivid descriptions, the author brings these characters to life, making them relatable and genuine.

One of the strongest aspects of Branded is Lynde's ability to transport readers to the untamed landscapes of the Wild West. His vivid descriptions of the sweeping vistas, rugged plains, and towering mountains make the setting an integral part of the story. The author's attention to detail not only brings the scenes to life but also adds depth and authenticity to the overall narrative.

The pacing of the book is another highlight. From the opening chapter, the reader is thrown into a whirlwind of events, propelling the story forward at a breakneck speed. Every chapter is filled with suspense, unexpected twists, and turns, making it nearly impossible to put the book down. Lynde skillfully weaves together multiple plotlines, ensuring that the reader is always guessing and never quite certain of what lies ahead.

In addition to the gripping plot, Lynde delves into themes of justice, morality, and the power of forgiveness. These thought-provoking undertones add another layer of complexity to the story, making it more than just a typical Western tale. The author explores the internal struggles of his characters, forcing them to confront their deepest fears and confront their own demons.

However, while Branded is an incredibly captivating novel, it does have a few minor flaws. At times, the pacing becomes rushed, leaving the reader wishing for more detailed explanations or character development. Some of the secondary characters lack the same depth as the protagonist, making their actions and motivations feel slightly contrived.

Overall, Branded is a thrilling read that will undoubtedly appeal to fans of Western literature. Francis Lynde's masterful storytelling and his ability to create a vivid and immersive world make this novel a standout in the genre. Action-packed, emotionally charged, and deeply gripping, Branded is a must-read for anyone who enjoys a thrilling Western adventure.

First Page:

I. THE HEATING OF THE IRON II. THE SEARING TOUCH III. IN THE NAME OF THE LAW IV. SCARS V. THE DOWNWARD PATH VI. A GOOD SAMARITAN VII. THE PLUNGE VIII. WESTWARD IX. THE CUP OF TREMBLING X. THE PLAIN CLOTHES MAN XI. NUMBER 3126 XII. A CAST FOR FORTUNE XIII. FOR THE SINEWS OF WAR XIV. PAPER WALLS XV. THE BROKEN WAGON XVI. IN THE OPEN XVII. ALADDIN'S LAMP XVIII. "THE WOMAN . . . WHOSE HANDS ARE AS BANDS" XIX. A RECKONING AND A HOLD UP XX. BROKEN FAITH XXI. THE END OF A HONEYMOON XXII. A WOMAN'S LOVE XXIII... Continue reading book >>