Saddle up and step into the thrilling world of The Jensen Brand, where the wild Montana frontier comes alive with gunfights, family loyalty, and the unyielding spirit of the American West! Written by bestselling authors William W. Johnstone and J.A. Johnstone, this Western saga follows the next generation of the legendary Jensen family, delivering heart-pounding action and rich historical flavor that keeps readers hooked.
Set at the turn of the 20th century, The Jensen Brand centers on twins Louis and Denise Jensen, children of the iconic gunfighter Smoke Jensen. From defending their sprawling Sugarloaf Ranch to facing down ruthless outlaws, the twins embody the grit and heart of their legendary lineage, making this series a must-read for Western fans craving adventure.
How The Jensen Brand Began
The Jensen Brand series, launched in 2017, builds on the sprawling universe of William W. Johnstone’s beloved Smoke Jensen stories, particularly the Mountain Man and The Family Jensen series. After William’s passing, his niece J.A. Johnstone carried forward his legacy, blending her uncle’s knack for vivid storytelling with fresh perspectives. The series was born to explore the next chapter of the Jensen dynasty, focusing on Smoke’s children as they navigate a changing West, where cattle rustling and frontier justice still reign supreme.
J.A. Johnstone, trained by her uncle, infused the series with historical authenticity and high-stakes drama, drawing on the duo’s deep knowledge of the American frontier. The result is a saga that feels both timeless and new, capturing the essence of a family forged in the fires of the Old West.
The Heart of The Jensen Brand
The series kicks off with The Jensen Brand (2017), where Smoke Jensen is injured battling cattle rustlers, prompting his wife, Sally, to rally the family. Twins Louis, a frail aspiring lawyer, and Denise, a fierce sharpshooter, step up to defend Sugarloaf Ranch against bloodthirsty outlaws. Too Soon to Die (2019) follows the Jensens as they plan a wedding amidst brewing danger, with mysterious strangers threatening the celebration. Rising Fire (2020) introduces a cunning Sicilian conman, Count Malatesa, whose schemes target the Jensen ranch, sparking a fiery showdown. Pray for Death (2020) delves deeper into Denise’s adventures, pitting her against treacherous foes in a ghost town shootout.
At its core, The Jensen Brand explores themes of family loyalty, frontier justice, and the evolving American West. Denise, a standout character, defies gender norms with her bold, gun-slinging prowess, while Louis brings brains to balance her brawn. The Montana setting, with its rugged prairies and towering mountains, serves as a vivid backdrop, immersing readers in a world where danger lurks around every bend. The Johnstones’ action-packed style, laced with suspense and a touch of romance, keeps the pages turning.
Why The Jensen Brand Resonates
The Jensen Brand has carved a niche in the Western genre by blending classic cowboy thrills with modern sensibilities, particularly through strong female characters like Denise. Fans praise the series for its fast-paced plots and emotional depth, with Goodreads reviews calling it “a page-turner” and “a fantastic start to a new series.” Its focus on family ties and resilience strikes a chord, offering a nostalgic yet fresh take on the frontier spirit.
While not as widely known as some Johnstone series, The Jensen Brand holds a special place for dedicated readers who relish its mix of historical grit and heartfelt storytelling. Its influence lies in keeping the Western genre vibrant, proving that tales of courage and justice still captivate in the 21st century.
- First Book Published: July 2017
- Number of Books: 5
- Key Characters: Louis and Denise Jensen, Smoke Jensen, Sally Jensen
- Setting: Montana, early 1900s
Grab The Jensen Brand and dive into the wild, action-packed world of the Jensen family! Whether you’re a longtime Johnstone fan or new to Westerns, this series promises a rootin’-tootin’ adventure you won’t forget!