A heartfelt slow burn, where forbidden desires ignite in a best friend's brother small-town romance. Bradley Mitchell, the town’s brooding police officer, has always kept a safe distance from his sister’s bubbly best friend, Amelia Brown. She’s been off-limits for years, a rule he swore to himself to uphold... until fate intervenes, and buried emotions rise to the surface, branding his guarded heart with unexpected desires. Amelia Brown, Wattle Creek’s beloved primary school teacher, has never been one to swoon over boys. But when it comes to Bradley, her best friend’s older brother, she can’t help but harbour a secret crush. For years, it’s been a silent longing, until a twist of fate reveals her true feelings. As their worlds collide, Bradley and Amelia discover that love knows no bounds in Wattle Creek, where they learn that some hearts are not just meant to be, but branded together forever. _________________________ Branded Hearts is book two in the Wattle Creek Series. This series can be read as interconnected standalones. Dive into this story, where forbidden love between a brave police officer and a shy kindergarten teacher sparks against the backdrop of secrets and small-town charm.