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Maple Mountain Lodge #1
Beauty and the Beard
Leaf
Grief is a complex thing to experience. Since losing my husband, I’ve let it call the shots. It’s been in control so long that I’ve almost forgotten what it feels like to have someone hold me tight at night or share a secret smile with.
But a beautiful young model shows up at my lodge. He’s eager to learn about the outdoors and experience life outside the city. The more we laugh and share secrets under the stars, the more he makes me want things that I’ve kept buried for too long.
He’s more than my first impression; he’s intelligent, kind, eager, and fiercely protective. He’s only supposed to be here for a month, but he’s chipping at the walls around my heart.
Now that I’m falling for him, I need to convince him to stay, but we’re from two different worlds.
Could a beauty like him be happy in the mountains with a bearded widower like me?
Sasha
Being a model assumes you’re all looks and no brains. Well, I’m done playing the part of the pretty boy. The flirt. The easy target. No more cowing to the demands of others. It’s time to figure out who I am and what I want from life.
I’m heading to the mountains for a month to discover the kinder side of life—if there is such a thing. I want to heal my wounds and use the wilderness to search my soul for where I should go next.
When I arrive at the lodge, the sexy lumberjack with the sad eyes immediately captures my attention. He’s incredibly thoughtful, and he emboldens me to be me. With his encouragement, I’m doing things I never thought possible, like learning to fish... and catching feelings instead.
We lead different lives, but even though I didn’t come here looking for love, would he want a beautiful mess like me to stay?
CW: mention of spousal death, past abuse
Grief is a complex thing to experience. Since losing my husband, I’ve let it call the shots. It’s been in control so long that I’ve almost forgotten what it feels like to have someone hold me tight at night or share a secret smile with.
But a beautiful young model shows up at my lodge. He’s eager to learn about the outdoors and experience life outside the city. The more we laugh and share secrets under the stars, the more he makes me want things that I’ve kept buried for too long.
He’s more than my first impression; he’s intelligent, kind, eager, and fiercely protective. He’s only supposed to be here for a month, but he’s chipping at the walls around my heart.
Now that I’m falling for him, I need to convince him to stay, but we’re from two different worlds.
Could a beauty like him be happy in the mountains with a bearded widower like me?
Sasha
Being a model assumes you’re all looks and no brains. Well, I’m done playing the part of the pretty boy. The flirt. The easy target. No more cowing to the demands of others. It’s time to figure out who I am and what I want from life.
I’m heading to the mountains for a month to discover the kinder side of life—if there is such a thing. I want to heal my wounds and use the wilderness to search my soul for where I should go next.
When I arrive at the lodge, the sexy lumberjack with the sad eyes immediately captures my attention. He’s incredibly thoughtful, and he emboldens me to be me. With his encouragement, I’m doing things I never thought possible, like learning to fish... and catching feelings instead.
We lead different lives, but even though I didn’t come here looking for love, would he want a beautiful mess like me to stay?
CW: mention of spousal death, past abuse
305 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 22, 2024
146 people are currently reading
164 people want to read
About the author
R.M. Neill
28 books217 followersRM is an introverted Canadian author who likes to write about love while freezing in the winter.
Her mission is to always make you swoon and snort laugh, sometimes even in public.
She talks to her cat, Moon, and sometimes people. She married her prince charming, who often inspires her characters, but still can't place dirty clothes in the hamper.
When she's not writing swoony men to fall in love with, she's in her garden providing mosquitoes with an alternative food source. She can also be found inventing new swear words on the golf course.
You can find her on facebook or visit her website rmneillauthor.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 143 reviews
September 13, 2024
One of those books that made me all teary-eyed.
A fairly simple story and no exciting plot. Just two broken people who find each other. Sometimes extremely cheesy, but also funny and painful.
Leaf's grief for his deceased husband takes up a lot of space in this story. I think it was beautifully handled how he finds new love despite everything.
Sasha is an impressive character, trying to find himself and opening up to Leaf despite his insecurities. His past is also quite a tear-jerker here. But I think his abuse is portrayed to a decent degree.
I think you could perhaps criticize the story for staying too much on the surface. But I'm a big fan of giving more time to the healing process and not spreading out the drama too much.
So for me it's very suitable. And it has so many little romantic gestures that were really dreamy to melt away.
The deep, gravelly voice belongs to a giant of a man, not dressed in hunt clothes or anything woodsy really, but a pair of faded blue jeans, a too tight hunter-green Henley and an apron that says, I lick spoons. 👀💗👀
“You make maple syrup? For real?”
Could this man be any more god-like? He creates sugar. It’s my most favourite food group next to chocolate. 😋💕😋
“It’s hard for me to trust people, Leaf.” His breath stutters and he opens his eyes. “But I trust you. Please be gentle with me.” 🥀🥺🥀
“I love you, mon amour. I’d wander the earth to find you, but an address would make it easier.” 🫠🤭🫠
A fairly simple story and no exciting plot. Just two broken people who find each other. Sometimes extremely cheesy, but also funny and painful.
Leaf's grief for his deceased husband takes up a lot of space in this story. I think it was beautifully handled how he finds new love despite everything.
Sasha is an impressive character, trying to find himself and opening up to Leaf despite his insecurities. His past is also quite a tear-jerker here. But I think his abuse is portrayed to a decent degree.
I think you could perhaps criticize the story for staying too much on the surface. But I'm a big fan of giving more time to the healing process and not spreading out the drama too much.
So for me it's very suitable. And it has so many little romantic gestures that were really dreamy to melt away.
The deep, gravelly voice belongs to a giant of a man, not dressed in hunt clothes or anything woodsy really, but a pair of faded blue jeans, a too tight hunter-green Henley and an apron that says, I lick spoons. 👀💗👀
“You make maple syrup? For real?”
Could this man be any more god-like? He creates sugar. It’s my most favourite food group next to chocolate. 😋💕😋
“It’s hard for me to trust people, Leaf.” His breath stutters and he opens his eyes. “But I trust you. Please be gentle with me.” 🥀🥺🥀
“I love you, mon amour. I’d wander the earth to find you, but an address would make it easier.” 🫠🤭🫠
February 4, 2024
I’ve just recently discovered this author and I’ve really enjoyed everything I’ve read by them. This book was amazing. I loved it from the beginning to end! The author was able to write a story about angsty topics without making the romance too angsty but at the same time the story isn’t too easy or too sweet. It was such a wonderful balance!
Both of these characters are suffering and have gone through incredibly hard experiences. Watching them both open up to each other and be the support the other needed was beautiful!
Sasha is first mentioned in Alec (which I haven’t read) but I didn’t feel like I was missing anything by not having read that story. Now though I really want to go back and read it. Sasha is such a precious character and the fact he’s at this secluded lodge to learn how to do things for himself was so sad. Leaf was so perfect for him.
I loved seeing Leaf start to live again and deal with his grief. His lodge sounded amazing and perfect for the two of them to be together. All the side characters were also great in this story. Had such a close knit family vibe!
I always love reading a story set in Canada and this time one of the characters was born right in my own backyard! So incredibly cool! I absolutely recommend this story! I loved the ending and their HEA! They both deserve it so much! I’m so excited for book two. I have a feeling it’s going to be a fun one!!
Both of these characters are suffering and have gone through incredibly hard experiences. Watching them both open up to each other and be the support the other needed was beautiful!
Sasha is first mentioned in Alec (which I haven’t read) but I didn’t feel like I was missing anything by not having read that story. Now though I really want to go back and read it. Sasha is such a precious character and the fact he’s at this secluded lodge to learn how to do things for himself was so sad. Leaf was so perfect for him.
I loved seeing Leaf start to live again and deal with his grief. His lodge sounded amazing and perfect for the two of them to be together. All the side characters were also great in this story. Had such a close knit family vibe!
I always love reading a story set in Canada and this time one of the characters was born right in my own backyard! So incredibly cool! I absolutely recommend this story! I loved the ending and their HEA! They both deserve it so much! I’m so excited for book two. I have a feeling it’s going to be a fun one!!
March 5, 2024
Beauty and the Beard was a very sweet story about grief and finding love again, but the pacing was a bit too slow for me and the story dragged a good bit.
Read
February 13, 2024Not even a cabin in the woods and a sexy lumberjack saved this for me…
Dnf 37%. All happened to fast and do flatly… didn’t feel any connection between them. The writing was very juvenile witch doesn’t make sense because this author it’s been around for a while. Such a shame 😔
Dnf 37%. All happened to fast and do flatly… didn’t feel any connection between them. The writing was very juvenile witch doesn’t make sense because this author it’s been around for a while. Such a shame 😔
June 23, 2024
A bit of classic romance. Sweet and wholesome. Just enough drama, just enough feel good building a new life. A second chance love story.
February 19, 2024
OMG! I don’t have tissues left!
What a wonderful book, I can't decide which of the MCs I like best, at first, I really liked Leaf but suddenly I was in love with Sasha.
The way Sasha grasps everything that is new, and that Leaf shows him. Another world that nevertheless gives Sasha the strength and confidence he needed to be him and believe he’s worthy of being love.
I loved the way Sasha embraces that Leaf will never stop love his dead husband.
I can’t wait to read about Sasha’s best friend, Roman and Leaf’s brother Perry.
Highly recommended!
What a wonderful book, I can't decide which of the MCs I like best, at first, I really liked Leaf but suddenly I was in love with Sasha.
The way Sasha grasps everything that is new, and that Leaf shows him. Another world that nevertheless gives Sasha the strength and confidence he needed to be him and believe he’s worthy of being love.
I loved the way Sasha embraces that Leaf will never stop love his dead husband.
I can’t wait to read about Sasha’s best friend, Roman and Leaf’s brother Perry.
Highly recommended!
February 23, 2024
After reading a few books written by R.M. Neill I realised that they possess this feeling of comfort and warmth that make me coming back.
Beauty and the Beard is the first book in a new Maple Mountain Lodge series that promises to envelop you in the coziness of the cabin lost in Canadian middle of nowhere where Sasha, a former model, hopes to escape to from unwanted attention and unresolved problems of a big city. He came there in search of an inner peace, but instead found his heart thumping at the sight of a handsome lodge owner who doesn’t own a mobile phone and still uses paper notebooks for visitors’ records. Leaf is a recluse who is still trying to accept his husband’s death seven years ago. Even though he still doesn’t want to allow himself to experience strong feelings about someone new, he is pulled in by the force of a beautiful and delicate man from the city residing in one of his cabins who also wants to learn all sorts of things like fishing and chopping wood. Through their time together Leaf and Sasha learn that they are not defined by their pasts that kept dragging them down filling them with a sense of guilt and shame. Catching fish, making pancakes, joking about being eaten by a bear gives them both a long-awaited feeling of belonging, of simple joy of being with another person that both seemed to have forgotten about. But Leaf’s life is here in the woods with people he calls his family, and Sasha is a city boy who needs to come back to sort his life out. Will beauty and a bearded lumberjack find a way to happiness that involves both of them?
February 24, 2024
R.M. Neill always writes great stories which are so much fun, but this one was special and moving.
Leaf is a widow who manages a lodge in the mountains. He lost his husband several years ago and just can't seem to go on with his life. Sasha is a model who had suffered so much in his life, he decides to spend a month at the lodge to think about the new path to take. From the moment they meet they connect and feelings start to grow between them.
This was a lovely story about two broken souls that found each other when they least expected it. Sasha was trying to heal from the abuse he had suffered in his career as a model and Leaf couldn't seem to move on, grieving for his deceased husband. They started spending time together, it was a slow burn romance, sweet and beautiful, and packed with so many emotions that touched my heart.
Sasha was the light of this novel, full of life and wanting nothing else but to start all over. He was strong and determined to leave the past behind, and just the kick Leaf needed to start living again.
I loved the secondary characters, they were just as important as the MCs especially when the latter needed a bit of encouragement to take another stop, mostly Leaf as Sasha was all in for it.
This book was touching and an emotional rollercoaster. I could understand Leaf's grief but I felt all the time wanting to push him towards Sasha. They complemented each other perfectly, Leaf always offering to teach Sasha things. The model was patient and made himself burrow into Leaf's skin slowly.
I enjoyed this book very much. There were a few times I wished the author had told more about Sasha's past as it feel there was information missing to fully understand the degree of abuse Sasha went through, but I understand that would've made the story too angsty and dramatic and, in the end, I loved both Leaf and Sasha and their very romantic and moving love story.
I can't wait for the next one in this series. At the end of the book we get a glimpse of Perry and Roman and... well, that is very promising!
Leaf is a widow who manages a lodge in the mountains. He lost his husband several years ago and just can't seem to go on with his life. Sasha is a model who had suffered so much in his life, he decides to spend a month at the lodge to think about the new path to take. From the moment they meet they connect and feelings start to grow between them.
This was a lovely story about two broken souls that found each other when they least expected it. Sasha was trying to heal from the abuse he had suffered in his career as a model and Leaf couldn't seem to move on, grieving for his deceased husband. They started spending time together, it was a slow burn romance, sweet and beautiful, and packed with so many emotions that touched my heart.
Sasha was the light of this novel, full of life and wanting nothing else but to start all over. He was strong and determined to leave the past behind, and just the kick Leaf needed to start living again.
I loved the secondary characters, they were just as important as the MCs especially when the latter needed a bit of encouragement to take another stop, mostly Leaf as Sasha was all in for it.
This book was touching and an emotional rollercoaster. I could understand Leaf's grief but I felt all the time wanting to push him towards Sasha. They complemented each other perfectly, Leaf always offering to teach Sasha things. The model was patient and made himself burrow into Leaf's skin slowly.
I enjoyed this book very much. There were a few times I wished the author had told more about Sasha's past as it feel there was information missing to fully understand the degree of abuse Sasha went through, but I understand that would've made the story too angsty and dramatic and, in the end, I loved both Leaf and Sasha and their very romantic and moving love story.
I can't wait for the next one in this series. At the end of the book we get a glimpse of Perry and Roman and... well, that is very promising!
Read
January 15, 2025Super lovely.
February 5, 2024
We have met Sasha before in Alec, but this book shows a different side to him. This isn't about watching the uber confident model, looking for a good time, this is the stripped down version. We meet the real Sasha, the one who has been hurt and been taken advantage of. Not many people get to see him vulnerable. Leaf has a sadness that follows him, since his husband's death, but something about Sasha stirs something up inside. This book is about acceptance, healing and being at peace. It is not the story that I expected when I knew it was Sasha's story. It is a deep story and these two somehow hold each other up. The intimacy is so much more than romance novels, it is hard to explain and I feel this is a valid reason of how they fell in love in such a short space of time. They have been honest and open and that somehow allowed love to squeeze inside. I loved the loon facts and the significance plucked at the heartstring, that was an emotional read. The angst is related to the topics discussed, not anything between the MC's. I have a major craving for pancakes and maple syrup after this book, this is pretty much all Sasha eats. Ryan and Roman are up next, which I thought might happen. That is going to be one snarky story, I can't wait. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
February 19, 2024
This is the first book in the Maple Mountain Lodge series and I really enjoyed it. This is the story of Leaf Attwater and Sasha Montpellier. Leaf is the owner of the Lodge. He has been alone for the past 7 years since his husband was killed in a car accident. Leaf has struggled with his grief and guilt. He is unable to move forward and remains mired in his despair. He is just existing, not really living. Sasha is a recently retired model. He is going to the lodge for 3 weeks to find out who he is again. Thanks to abuse and hurt from people who should have been guiding him, he has lost his way. He needs to find the real Sasha, not the emotionally closed down model. To that end, Sasha has decided to try all the new things he has never been exposed to nor tried. Making bread, yes please. Fly fishing, only if we catch and releases. A Sasha undertakes all these new experiences, his happiness and positive energy shine out from him. He is lightening up everyone's day and attitude. That includes the grief stricken owner who takes him out fishing. Seeing each other as they truly are and not how they think they should act allows Sasha and Leaf to form a solid foundation. Will it just be friendship or will it grow to much more. This is their story. The book is very well written and easy to read. I enjoyed how it easily flowed from one chapter to the next. I really enjoyed this book. I am looking forward to the next book in this series. I can't wait for Perry and Roman's story.
I received an advanced review copy of this book for free from the author and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received an advanced review copy of this book for free from the author and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 3, 2024
3.5 stars
Beauty and the Beard is the first book in a new series by R.M. Neill. I loved and adored Sasha so much. He had such a traumatizing past and he just wanted to be able to do things on his own. As a famous supermodel, he had been used, judged, and underestimated his whole life. When he needed to get away for a while, he ended up at Leaf’s lodge. Leaf is a widower who is still grieving his husband Connor, who had passed away seven years ago. These two become close and start to have feelings for each other.
While I loved Sasha and wanted to protect him so much, Leaf was a little harder to like. He seemed stuck in his own grief and not listening when his family kept mentioning how Sasha wanted to be romanced. I felt like Sasha gave more than Leaf did. Even at the end, Sasha found the perfect way to show Leaf he cared while also remembering his late husband. I was waiting for Leaf to make a grand gesture for Sasha.
Not really sure how Perry and Roman will work out, but I know I will read about them. If only to read more about Sasha.
I received an ARC for my honest review
Beauty and the Beard is the first book in a new series by R.M. Neill. I loved and adored Sasha so much. He had such a traumatizing past and he just wanted to be able to do things on his own. As a famous supermodel, he had been used, judged, and underestimated his whole life. When he needed to get away for a while, he ended up at Leaf’s lodge. Leaf is a widower who is still grieving his husband Connor, who had passed away seven years ago. These two become close and start to have feelings for each other.
While I loved Sasha and wanted to protect him so much, Leaf was a little harder to like. He seemed stuck in his own grief and not listening when his family kept mentioning how Sasha wanted to be romanced. I felt like Sasha gave more than Leaf did. Even at the end, Sasha found the perfect way to show Leaf he cared while also remembering his late husband. I was waiting for Leaf to make a grand gesture for Sasha.
Not really sure how Perry and Roman will work out, but I know I will read about them. If only to read more about Sasha.
I received an ARC for my honest review
December 21, 2025
This is an opposites attract romance, featuring Leaf and Sasha, and is book one in the Maple Mountain Lodge series.
Leaf, a widowed lodge owner hardened by grief, finds his guarded heart slowly reopening when Sasha, a model looking to rediscover himself in the mountains, arrives and shows him warmth, laughter, and the possibility of love again.
This book is a beautifully soft, opposites-attract love story with real emotional depth. It’s a tender, slow-burn about healing, hope, and finding love when you’ve convinced yourself it’s no longer possible. Leaf’s grief is written beautifully that watching Sasha gently coax him back into the world feels incredibly rewarding, and their chemistry, equal parts quiet comfort and mutual longing, made my heart happy in the best way.
Things to expect in this book are:
Book 1 in series
MM romance
Opposites attract
Retreat owner x model
Grumpy x Sunshine
Country boy x city boy
Age gap (43/28)
Size difference
Hurt/ Comfort
Grieving widower
Fish out of water
Forced Proximity
Spicy times
Both fall hard
Healing through love
Buys him flowers
Found family
HEA
Leaf, a widowed lodge owner hardened by grief, finds his guarded heart slowly reopening when Sasha, a model looking to rediscover himself in the mountains, arrives and shows him warmth, laughter, and the possibility of love again.
This book is a beautifully soft, opposites-attract love story with real emotional depth. It’s a tender, slow-burn about healing, hope, and finding love when you’ve convinced yourself it’s no longer possible. Leaf’s grief is written beautifully that watching Sasha gently coax him back into the world feels incredibly rewarding, and their chemistry, equal parts quiet comfort and mutual longing, made my heart happy in the best way.
Things to expect in this book are:
Book 1 in series
MM romance
Opposites attract
Retreat owner x model
Grumpy x Sunshine
Country boy x city boy
Age gap (43/28)
Size difference
Hurt/ Comfort
Grieving widower
Fish out of water
Forced Proximity
Spicy times
Both fall hard
Healing through love
Buys him flowers
Found family
HEA
February 28, 2024
It was okay and nothing special, but what I hated the most was what Sasha had been through. His mother passed away when he was thirteen, and his mother's friend, a man named Moe, offered to stay with him instead of going to foster care. Moe brainwashed him to sleep with "clients" to seal the contract's deal, and on top of that, Moe coerced Sasha to sleep with him too. When he finally broke free from Moe at eighteen, he fell into the same hole again with a different agent. He thought his agent cared and loved him, but it turned out Sasha was being used again.
I don't like when one of the main characters is sexually abused; it makes the story less enjoyable.
The following book will be Sasha's best friend, Roman with Leaf's brother. In this book, Roman and Leaf's brother were like enemies; they hated each other's guts, and at the end of this story, Roman was hooking up or just making out in the bathroom with a stranger while Leaf's brother was waiting for him at the bar. I already disliked Roman for his behavior.
I don't like when one of the main characters is sexually abused; it makes the story less enjoyable.
The following book will be Sasha's best friend, Roman with Leaf's brother. In this book, Roman and Leaf's brother were like enemies; they hated each other's guts, and at the end of this story, Roman was hooking up or just making out in the bathroom with a stranger while Leaf's brother was waiting for him at the bar. I already disliked Roman for his behavior.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Read
March 11, 2024DNF @ 30%
I just couldn't get into it. Might try again one day.
I just couldn't get into it. Might try again one day.
February 22, 2024
Beauty and the Beard, the first book in the Maple Mountain Lodge series, was an absolute surprise. It was a sweet, fluffy rollercoaster of emotions following Sasha and Leaf as they fell in love over the course of a month long stay at the Maple Lodge.
Leaf, the grieving lodge owner, has been withdrawn from life and just going through the motions since [redacted] almost seven years ago.
Sasha, the model who has dealt with [redacted] for far too long, trusts his friend to book a month long retreat where he can reconnect with himself and decide how he wants to live and who he wants to be.
Leaf and Sasha have instant chemistry that has to fight through both mc's respective pasts. But they bring out the best in each other, and the joy and laughter was contagious throughout the entire story.
The lodge was such a cute backdrop and allowed us to see the town AND meet side characters AND set the scene for some pretty big moments.
First off: there is an airport scene. You know I love airport scenes.
Secondly, there is a scene where [redacted] is talking to [redacted] and then a -------- appears and it was such a beautiful moment I had to stop reading, dry my tears and dm the author.
That's the good stuff.
I definitely recommend this book, especially if you're needing a feel-good fluffy-squishy romance packed with feels and love finding folks after loss. RM Neill hit it out of the park with the Maple Mountain Lodge book.
And book 2 is already set up with ----- & ------ ! I'm totally here for it!!!
Leaf, the grieving lodge owner, has been withdrawn from life and just going through the motions since [redacted] almost seven years ago.
Sasha, the model who has dealt with [redacted] for far too long, trusts his friend to book a month long retreat where he can reconnect with himself and decide how he wants to live and who he wants to be.
Leaf and Sasha have instant chemistry that has to fight through both mc's respective pasts. But they bring out the best in each other, and the joy and laughter was contagious throughout the entire story.
The lodge was such a cute backdrop and allowed us to see the town AND meet side characters AND set the scene for some pretty big moments.
First off: there is an airport scene. You know I love airport scenes.
Secondly, there is a scene where [redacted] is talking to [redacted] and then a -------- appears and it was such a beautiful moment I had to stop reading, dry my tears and dm the author.
That's the good stuff.
I definitely recommend this book, especially if you're needing a feel-good fluffy-squishy romance packed with feels and love finding folks after loss. RM Neill hit it out of the park with the Maple Mountain Lodge book.
And book 2 is already set up with ----- & ------ ! I'm totally here for it!!!
February 22, 2024
Sweet and easy to read book, opposite attracts.
🌶️🌶️
🌶️🌶️
February 29, 2024
Leaf + Sasha
•A lodge owner who has lost himself along with his husband 7 years prior
•A young male model who endured a lot in the hands of people he trusted, and who now needs a reset
•Sasha is full of life and eager to learn and try everything
•Leaf is ready to enjoy life again which is easier to do with someone new
•A lodge owner who has lost himself along with his husband 7 years prior
•A young male model who endured a lot in the hands of people he trusted, and who now needs a reset
•Sasha is full of life and eager to learn and try everything
•Leaf is ready to enjoy life again which is easier to do with someone new
February 29, 2024
DNF@ 56%
I tried I really did. But at 56% I really couldn’t care much about the characters. Their “traumas” were so brushed off, never deeply talked about, even the ones Sasha had that I thought we would get to see him open up to Leaf, the author chose to make it happen in the background???? Such an important part of the story.
I felt more connected to Sasha in Alec that I did in the first half of this book. This is supposed to the start of a series and the author didn’t put the effort for the characters to develop. They were already in bed around 25-30%.
To top it all off, the smut was absolutely lukewarm and rushed. I’m sad because Blaze is one of my all time faves and I really love to read new stories from authors that write my faves but this one was definitely a miss.
I tried I really did. But at 56% I really couldn’t care much about the characters. Their “traumas” were so brushed off, never deeply talked about, even the ones Sasha had that I thought we would get to see him open up to Leaf, the author chose to make it happen in the background???? Such an important part of the story.
I felt more connected to Sasha in Alec that I did in the first half of this book. This is supposed to the start of a series and the author didn’t put the effort for the characters to develop. They were already in bed around 25-30%.
To top it all off, the smut was absolutely lukewarm and rushed. I’m sad because Blaze is one of my all time faves and I really love to read new stories from authors that write my faves but this one was definitely a miss.
March 17, 2024
[I received a complementary copy for a review.]
Rating: 4.5 stars (9/10)
Spice: 🌶️🌶️
Tropes: hurt/comfort, romantic, love after loss, child abuse, size difference, age gap
Review:
This story was everything I was hoping for (if not a little bit too short). Sasha wants to escape for a while from the mess of his life, and he goes to a wilderness retreat to disconnect and hopefully find some peace in his life. What he doesn't expect is Leaf, the handsome and broken owner of the retreat, who is still hurting from the loss of his husband from 7 years prior. They quickly end up spending time together and revealing their hurts and finding comfort and more in each other.
One thing I loved about this story was how they were both openly interested in each other from the get-go. I don't mind a bit of chasing, but given how Leaf has lost and is unsure if he can open himself up again, and with Sasha having so little self-confidence and feeling of worthiness, the fact they both kept coming back for more was just perfect. Despite seeming old-schooled or a little dense, Leaf is definitely a romantic at heart, and Sasha is a man in need of romancing. It was heart-breaking to keep reading about how the abuse and obliteration of trust that Sasha had gone through affected so much of how he viewed himself, and how he thought he couldn't give Leaf what he needed.
I have to also point out the two peripheral characters that will be getting their own book and I'm so dang excited for their mess. Roman is Sasha's best friend, and he is also a model He suffered from the same person but nowhere near as much, and he is just a crazy-ass ball of chaos sunshine, and I loved him from literally the opening line of the book. Leaf's younger brother Perry is a typical younger brother who's in his 30's - he cares for and is protective of Leaf, but is maybe not the most tactful at showing it. I also loved Millie, who took Sasha under her wing and was a bit like a mother figure to him while he was there. There are other beautiful characters, and I just really loved the whole friend group along with the backdrop of a maple forest, a beautiful lake, and cabins along the shoreline. This is not a long read, but it is very beautiful, and I definitely recommend it!
Rating: 4.5 stars (9/10)
Spice: 🌶️🌶️
Tropes: hurt/comfort, romantic, love after loss, child abuse, size difference, age gap
Review:
This story was everything I was hoping for (if not a little bit too short). Sasha wants to escape for a while from the mess of his life, and he goes to a wilderness retreat to disconnect and hopefully find some peace in his life. What he doesn't expect is Leaf, the handsome and broken owner of the retreat, who is still hurting from the loss of his husband from 7 years prior. They quickly end up spending time together and revealing their hurts and finding comfort and more in each other.
One thing I loved about this story was how they were both openly interested in each other from the get-go. I don't mind a bit of chasing, but given how Leaf has lost and is unsure if he can open himself up again, and with Sasha having so little self-confidence and feeling of worthiness, the fact they both kept coming back for more was just perfect. Despite seeming old-schooled or a little dense, Leaf is definitely a romantic at heart, and Sasha is a man in need of romancing. It was heart-breaking to keep reading about how the abuse and obliteration of trust that Sasha had gone through affected so much of how he viewed himself, and how he thought he couldn't give Leaf what he needed.
I have to also point out the two peripheral characters that will be getting their own book and I'm so dang excited for their mess. Roman is Sasha's best friend, and he is also a model He suffered from the same person but nowhere near as much, and he is just a crazy-ass ball of chaos sunshine, and I loved him from literally the opening line of the book. Leaf's younger brother Perry is a typical younger brother who's in his 30's - he cares for and is protective of Leaf, but is maybe not the most tactful at showing it. I also loved Millie, who took Sasha under her wing and was a bit like a mother figure to him while he was there. There are other beautiful characters, and I just really loved the whole friend group along with the backdrop of a maple forest, a beautiful lake, and cabins along the shoreline. This is not a long read, but it is very beautiful, and I definitely recommend it!
February 19, 2024
This is an outstanding book. I sometimes wait a bit to write a review to make sure the entire book is set in my head, you know to process all the feelings. With Beauty and the Beard, I just want to put my emotions on the page. I have quite a few favorite authors and R. M. Neill is on that list. With every series, I say that's my favorite, I won't be able to love another group of characters as much as them. Yet with every series R. M. makes me fall in love all over again. Each series has something in it that draws you to the characters and if you enjoy them, you should definitely go to her back list to find all her books and pour over them. I was lucky enough to start with the Nickel City Bandits and I have been with her ever since.
With Beauty and the Beard, R. M. lets us know at the very start the book will be emotional. I am so drawn to books where I cry and break a part sometimes. Beauty brings us two broken people that are just starting to wake up, wake up from grief and from a nightmare. Sasha, whom we met in Alec's story, is ready to start anew, he's just not quite sure how to do it. Leaf is not sure how to do anything anymore without his husband by his side. Yet these two men are balm to the other. Leaf sees Sasha, sees who he really is and who is can be in the future. Sasha is pure sunshine and joy and he brings that joy and warmth to Leaf, he helps him to open up again.
This story is more angsty than her normal works although it felt just right as I read it. I felt like the emotions bled through the page for me. I personally think we are all broken in some way and this story felt so good. My tears were sad and happy. My heart smiled as the loon looked at Leaf. I laughed and thought that "in my lumberjack era" sounded like something from Taylor Swift. This story drew me in in the best of ways. To me it is about new beginnings, moving past grief, and being brave. Yes, I'm already looking forward to Kiss My Axe, because Roman intrigues me and I know R. M. is going to make that book just as amazing as Beauty. My only question is how many times can I reread Beauty and the Beard before Roman's story comes out?
With Beauty and the Beard, R. M. lets us know at the very start the book will be emotional. I am so drawn to books where I cry and break a part sometimes. Beauty brings us two broken people that are just starting to wake up, wake up from grief and from a nightmare. Sasha, whom we met in Alec's story, is ready to start anew, he's just not quite sure how to do it. Leaf is not sure how to do anything anymore without his husband by his side. Yet these two men are balm to the other. Leaf sees Sasha, sees who he really is and who is can be in the future. Sasha is pure sunshine and joy and he brings that joy and warmth to Leaf, he helps him to open up again.
This story is more angsty than her normal works although it felt just right as I read it. I felt like the emotions bled through the page for me. I personally think we are all broken in some way and this story felt so good. My tears were sad and happy. My heart smiled as the loon looked at Leaf. I laughed and thought that "in my lumberjack era" sounded like something from Taylor Swift. This story drew me in in the best of ways. To me it is about new beginnings, moving past grief, and being brave. Yes, I'm already looking forward to Kiss My Axe, because Roman intrigues me and I know R. M. is going to make that book just as amazing as Beauty. My only question is how many times can I reread Beauty and the Beard before Roman's story comes out?
February 23, 2024
Grab your tissues cause this is an emotional start to this new series from RM Neill. I was looking forward to reading more of Sasha’s character after reading Alec’s book in The Broken Horn Ranch series and this book did not disappoint. He was an interesting character stepping out of his comfort zone to try new things and I wanted to see how things turned out after events in that book. Sasha’s character was so much more than I anticipated. Dealing with loss, betrayal and hurt in his past which is revealed as the book progresses but also searching for something and moving in a new direction in life.
Leaf’s character was such a sweet soul to read - behind this outdoors/maple syrup making exterior is someone who’s been dealing the loss of a spouse. Someone who’s feeling those butterflies of attraction while still holding onto memories of someone they lost and at times his chapters had me a mix of smiles and tears. Some of his thoughts on his grief and how to move forward just stuck with me and were so touching and honest.
Both characters carried this feeling of loss but also the more I read of the story, one of hope. Moving forward in life can be scary for both characters. I loved how Sasha was so supportive of holding onto Connor’s memory and helping Leaf realize that there was more than enough space in his heart for both of them. And as Roman said, Sasha really is a diamond in this book and his journey to move away from his past and open his heart into the future was emotional.
I am so looking forward to reading more of this series. Perry is a bold character, protective of his brother and says what’s on his mind but definitely more to him than what first appears. I think it should be an interesting match to Roman’s character and I can’t wait to read their story.
Leaf’s character was such a sweet soul to read - behind this outdoors/maple syrup making exterior is someone who’s been dealing the loss of a spouse. Someone who’s feeling those butterflies of attraction while still holding onto memories of someone they lost and at times his chapters had me a mix of smiles and tears. Some of his thoughts on his grief and how to move forward just stuck with me and were so touching and honest.
Both characters carried this feeling of loss but also the more I read of the story, one of hope. Moving forward in life can be scary for both characters. I loved how Sasha was so supportive of holding onto Connor’s memory and helping Leaf realize that there was more than enough space in his heart for both of them. And as Roman said, Sasha really is a diamond in this book and his journey to move away from his past and open his heart into the future was emotional.
I am so looking forward to reading more of this series. Perry is a bold character, protective of his brother and says what’s on his mind but definitely more to him than what first appears. I think it should be an interesting match to Roman’s character and I can’t wait to read their story.
March 5, 2024
***ARC Review***
This is my honest and voluntary review for the ARC I received.
This is the first book in the Maple Mountain Lodge series. R.M. Neill gives us a beautiful story here. I love the nods to other romance books/authors in this story. It just made it that much sweeter/sincere.
Leaf is 43 years old, has lost his husband (Connor) and the grief is all consuming. Sasha is 28 years old and a (former) model who wants to figure out what he wants from life.
Leaf and Sasha are such a lovely pair. They both deserve all the good things and love in the world. I enjoyed watching them help one another heal and get a fresh start on life. The care they have for one another is very endearing. Leaf is a standup guy and it was beautiful watching him give Sasha the comfort and space to flourish after the terrible events of his past. I appreciated how Sasha just being himself, and the light he brings to the world, helped Leaf to rejoin the land of the living and be find happiness again. The honesty and transparency between Leaf and Sasha is really special. I was a fan of how both men made sure to state how Connor could never be replaced. Leaf’s second chance at love and Sasha’s first experience with it (outside of his mother) is a really compelling story. There is some angst in this book, but it is fitting, and it has a really heartwarming and well deserved HEA.
Millie and Pete were great side characters. Roman is a wonderful friend and support system to Sasha. I loved the Zane cameo as well. Perry, Leaf’s brother, definitely has layers. I’m very much looking forward to his book with Roman, up next in the series.
Side note: Check out the Author’s Note at the beginning of the book for potentially triggering subject matter.
This is my honest and voluntary review for the ARC I received.
This is the first book in the Maple Mountain Lodge series. R.M. Neill gives us a beautiful story here. I love the nods to other romance books/authors in this story. It just made it that much sweeter/sincere.
Leaf is 43 years old, has lost his husband (Connor) and the grief is all consuming. Sasha is 28 years old and a (former) model who wants to figure out what he wants from life.
Leaf and Sasha are such a lovely pair. They both deserve all the good things and love in the world. I enjoyed watching them help one another heal and get a fresh start on life. The care they have for one another is very endearing. Leaf is a standup guy and it was beautiful watching him give Sasha the comfort and space to flourish after the terrible events of his past. I appreciated how Sasha just being himself, and the light he brings to the world, helped Leaf to rejoin the land of the living and be find happiness again. The honesty and transparency between Leaf and Sasha is really special. I was a fan of how both men made sure to state how Connor could never be replaced. Leaf’s second chance at love and Sasha’s first experience with it (outside of his mother) is a really compelling story. There is some angst in this book, but it is fitting, and it has a really heartwarming and well deserved HEA.
Millie and Pete were great side characters. Roman is a wonderful friend and support system to Sasha. I loved the Zane cameo as well. Perry, Leaf’s brother, definitely has layers. I’m very much looking forward to his book with Roman, up next in the series.
Side note: Check out the Author’s Note at the beginning of the book for potentially triggering subject matter.
March 5, 2024
« ARC REVIEW »
Beauty and the Beard by R.M. Neil is the first book of the Maple Mountain Lodge series.
« lumberjack x model»
« opposites attract »
« hurt x comfort »
« age gap »
« second chance »
« love after loss »
« grieving lumberjack »
« found family »
This is a story of healing, second chances, learning to trust again, and love. Leaf and Sasha are complete opposites but yet complement each other perfectly. This story is a perfect balance of sweet and emotional, but with fairly low angst. This is truly beautiful story!
Leaf’s husband, Conner, died 7 years ago in a car accident. A part of Leaf also died along with him. Running the lodge occupied his time, but he wasn’t really living. It isn’t until Sasha walks int the lodge, completely out of place, does Leaf start to live again. Leaf struggles with the idea of letting someone in when he can’t seem to let go of Connor. Leaf starts to really process his grief and comes to realise that he can move on and love Sasha, while still loving Connor. Sasha is such a precious soul! He listens to Leaf talk about his husband and actively supports Leaf in keeping Connor’s memory alive. Despite the hardships that Sasha has faced he is still so alive. He is like a kid experiencing and learning things for the first time. Sasha takes this opportunity at the lodge to be more self-sufficient and independent. Leaf follows Sasha’s lead and allows him to gain his power and autonomy back. Leaf and Sasha are so sweet as individuals and as a couple!
I am looking forward to Perry and Roman’s story next!
[I received an ARC of this book from Indie Author Creative and this is my honest review].
Beauty and the Beard by R.M. Neil is the first book of the Maple Mountain Lodge series.
« lumberjack x model»
« opposites attract »
« hurt x comfort »
« age gap »
« second chance »
« love after loss »
« grieving lumberjack »
« found family »
This is a story of healing, second chances, learning to trust again, and love. Leaf and Sasha are complete opposites but yet complement each other perfectly. This story is a perfect balance of sweet and emotional, but with fairly low angst. This is truly beautiful story!
Leaf’s husband, Conner, died 7 years ago in a car accident. A part of Leaf also died along with him. Running the lodge occupied his time, but he wasn’t really living. It isn’t until Sasha walks int the lodge, completely out of place, does Leaf start to live again. Leaf struggles with the idea of letting someone in when he can’t seem to let go of Connor. Leaf starts to really process his grief and comes to realise that he can move on and love Sasha, while still loving Connor. Sasha is such a precious soul! He listens to Leaf talk about his husband and actively supports Leaf in keeping Connor’s memory alive. Despite the hardships that Sasha has faced he is still so alive. He is like a kid experiencing and learning things for the first time. Sasha takes this opportunity at the lodge to be more self-sufficient and independent. Leaf follows Sasha’s lead and allows him to gain his power and autonomy back. Leaf and Sasha are so sweet as individuals and as a couple!
I am looking forward to Perry and Roman’s story next!
[I received an ARC of this book from Indie Author Creative and this is my honest review].
June 23, 2024
1st person, present tense, dual POV
Solomon 'Sasha' Monpellier (28), former model
Leaf Albert Attwater (43), owner Maple Mountain Lodge
What drew me in was the duck out of water premise of a fashionable model roughing it at a remote rustic retreat in northern Québec, but it was Sasha's spirit that kept me turning the pages. While both Leaf and Sasha have suffered traumatic loss he remains determined to find himself and his place in the world. I loved each and every challenge he faced head on and conquered. Leaf's journey is a little different as he's turned into a ghost of himself following the unexpected death of his husband, Connor, seven years earlier, and it was so satisfying seeing him slowly return to the land of the living. This was a beautiful, heartfelt story that took its time, I just wish we had been shown more of the depth than I know occurred behind the scenes but I loved knowing they suited each other so well and have a bright future together.
For example, something I wish had been given a little more attention were their respective backgrounds; they were more alluded to than explicitly explained and I understand the author not wanting to create too heavy a narrative or trauma dump on the reader but it made it difficult to understand what the characters were experiencing when we didn't know what they had gone through. For example, how did Leaf's husband die?
The rich cast of secondary characters are interesting, dynamic, and pivotal to the narrative, especially Leaf's brother, Perry and Sasha's best friend, Roman. There is a tiny teaser for their book in the epilogue, which isn't my favourite thing as I much prefer interconnected stories of a series to entirely standalone unless there is an overarching plot but it is what it is.
Note: There is a bonus story (newsletter sign-up incentive), Guitar Strings and Pretty Things, that occurs between this and the next book in the series, Kiss My Axe. It is a cute crossover, written from Leaf and Van's POVs, featuring Leaf/Sasha and Van/Brodie (from Ava Olsen's Wayward Lane book, Punk-In, which I haven't read) in which Brodie and Van (who is childhood friends with Leaf), visit Maple Moutain Lodge for the weekend. It is quick and fluffy read that I enjoyed but is not necessary to for overall enjoyment of the book.
Sorry for the short review, I'm falling far behind in my goal to review all the books I read this year and am feeling some kind of way about it.
Solomon 'Sasha' Monpellier (28), former model
Leaf Albert Attwater (43), owner Maple Mountain Lodge
What drew me in was the duck out of water premise of a fashionable model roughing it at a remote rustic retreat in northern Québec, but it was Sasha's spirit that kept me turning the pages. While both Leaf and Sasha have suffered traumatic loss he remains determined to find himself and his place in the world. I loved each and every challenge he faced head on and conquered. Leaf's journey is a little different as he's turned into a ghost of himself following the unexpected death of his husband, Connor, seven years earlier, and it was so satisfying seeing him slowly return to the land of the living. This was a beautiful, heartfelt story that took its time, I just wish we had been shown more of the depth than I know occurred behind the scenes but I loved knowing they suited each other so well and have a bright future together.
For example, something I wish had been given a little more attention were their respective backgrounds; they were more alluded to than explicitly explained and I understand the author not wanting to create too heavy a narrative or trauma dump on the reader but it made it difficult to understand what the characters were experiencing when we didn't know what they had gone through. For example, how did Leaf's husband die?
The rich cast of secondary characters are interesting, dynamic, and pivotal to the narrative, especially Leaf's brother, Perry and Sasha's best friend, Roman. There is a tiny teaser for their book in the epilogue, which isn't my favourite thing as I much prefer interconnected stories of a series to entirely standalone unless there is an overarching plot but it is what it is.
Note: There is a bonus story (newsletter sign-up incentive), Guitar Strings and Pretty Things, that occurs between this and the next book in the series, Kiss My Axe. It is a cute crossover, written from Leaf and Van's POVs, featuring Leaf/Sasha and Van/Brodie (from Ava Olsen's Wayward Lane book, Punk-In, which I haven't read) in which Brodie and Van (who is childhood friends with Leaf), visit Maple Moutain Lodge for the weekend. It is quick and fluffy read that I enjoyed but is not necessary to for overall enjoyment of the book.
Sorry for the short review, I'm falling far behind in my goal to review all the books I read this year and am feeling some kind of way about it.
February 22, 2024
Beautiful and emotionally compelling
Sasha is a model seeking some peace and quiet.
He lets a friend book him a stay at an out of the lodge.
He just doesn't realize how rustic it is but he's determined to have a good time.
When he meets Leaf, the owner of the lodge, sparks fly immediately.
Unfortunately Leaf is still grieving the loss of his husband.
As they slowly get to know one another through Leaf teaching Sasha some outdoor skills along with simple life skills, feelings start to grow between them.
Sasha has been used and hurt by those who should have protected him and it's hard for him to trust himself and his emotions.
His best friend Roman is wonderful.
Leaf has been grieving for quite some time but Sasha is a breath of fresh air breathing new life into him.
I loved how patient and kind Leaf was with Sasha.
Leaf's brother Perry initially comes across as a bit forceful and hurtful but it's with the best intentions.
When Leaf's husband Connor passed away, he also lost a brother and friend.
When Sasha's time at the lodge is up, he doesn't want to leave and Leaf doesn't want him to either.
Unfortunately he has impending business to attend to.
Leaf very sincerely let's Sasha know that whatever decision he makes he'll support it.
Thankfully they stay in touch and after some encouragement from Perry Leaf takes the initiative to go after Sasha and be there for him when his important business is done.
These two were so sweet together.
I loved getting a first glimpse of Perry and Roman, I can't wait for their book.
Sasha is a model seeking some peace and quiet.
He lets a friend book him a stay at an out of the lodge.
He just doesn't realize how rustic it is but he's determined to have a good time.
When he meets Leaf, the owner of the lodge, sparks fly immediately.
Unfortunately Leaf is still grieving the loss of his husband.
As they slowly get to know one another through Leaf teaching Sasha some outdoor skills along with simple life skills, feelings start to grow between them.
Sasha has been used and hurt by those who should have protected him and it's hard for him to trust himself and his emotions.
His best friend Roman is wonderful.
Leaf has been grieving for quite some time but Sasha is a breath of fresh air breathing new life into him.
I loved how patient and kind Leaf was with Sasha.
Leaf's brother Perry initially comes across as a bit forceful and hurtful but it's with the best intentions.
When Leaf's husband Connor passed away, he also lost a brother and friend.
When Sasha's time at the lodge is up, he doesn't want to leave and Leaf doesn't want him to either.
Unfortunately he has impending business to attend to.
Leaf very sincerely let's Sasha know that whatever decision he makes he'll support it.
Thankfully they stay in touch and after some encouragement from Perry Leaf takes the initiative to go after Sasha and be there for him when his important business is done.
These two were so sweet together.
I loved getting a first glimpse of Perry and Roman, I can't wait for their book.
March 8, 2024
4/5 Sasha and Leaf both have trauma in their past. We don’t get details of Sasha’s, just enough to understand what happened to him, and then there’s a bit of legal stuff happening in the story. With Leaf, we learn a lot about Connor, his death, but also his life. I liked how Connor remained a presence in the story, and we saw how a new love doesn’t negate an old love, and there’s room for both. I liked how Sasha saw and accepted that, and how it helped Leaf move on (but never forget).
I liked how emotions and worries were navigated for the most part, but around the mid-point of the book, it felt to me like there was suddenly a lot more uncertainty than their had been in Sasha, and suddenly they both commented on it in their POV. Maybe spending the night together was a catalyst, but it came if not out of nowhere, way more sharply than I was anticipating from everything up to that point. I *did* appreciate that this happened around the middle of the book, and we got lots more time to resolve it (rather than it being an 80% break up and huge rush to close). There’s certainly a lot going on in Sasha’s life, and I liked that he took some time to figure things out. I appreciated that Leaf listened to him and respected him as he is (and sees more in him than Sasha sometimes sees in himself).
I liked how the two of them figured out to make their lives work together with their found family. I loved the love of maple syrup. :)
I’m not a big fan of enemies-to-lovers, but I’m still intrigued by Perry and Roman.
I received an ARC from GRR. This is my honest review.
I liked how emotions and worries were navigated for the most part, but around the mid-point of the book, it felt to me like there was suddenly a lot more uncertainty than their had been in Sasha, and suddenly they both commented on it in their POV. Maybe spending the night together was a catalyst, but it came if not out of nowhere, way more sharply than I was anticipating from everything up to that point. I *did* appreciate that this happened around the middle of the book, and we got lots more time to resolve it (rather than it being an 80% break up and huge rush to close). There’s certainly a lot going on in Sasha’s life, and I liked that he took some time to figure things out. I appreciated that Leaf listened to him and respected him as he is (and sees more in him than Sasha sometimes sees in himself).
I liked how the two of them figured out to make their lives work together with their found family. I loved the love of maple syrup. :)
I’m not a big fan of enemies-to-lovers, but I’m still intrigued by Perry and Roman.
I received an ARC from GRR. This is my honest review.
March 24, 2024
𝙁𝙞𝙣𝙙 𝙮𝙤𝙪𝙧𝙨𝙚𝙡𝙛 𝙖 𝙡𝙪𝙢𝙗𝙚𝙧𝙟𝙖𝙘𝙠 𝙬𝙝𝙤 𝙡𝙤𝙤𝙠𝙨 𝙖𝙩 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙡𝙞𝙠𝙚 𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙨.
Bᴇᴀᴜᴛʏ ᴀɴᴅ ᴛʜᴇ Bᴇᴀʀᴅ → R.M. Neill | Maple Mountain Lodge → Book 1
Sasha ~ Leaf
Sasha and Leaf's story was more than I expected and I loved their journey.
Sasha needs to get away from his day-to-day life so he heads to the mountains to unwind. Sasha was not expecting Leaf, a growly lumberjack of a man to sweep him off his feet and make him look at things from a different perspective.
Sasha and Leaf had me experiencing many emotions while partaking in their journey with them. Both of them are carrying heavy baggage from their past but their connection to each other has them opening up, confessing their inner most secrets, and helping each other heal.
Some very serious and heart-squeezing moments had me reaching for the tissues. I am excited for the next book in this series as it sounds like it's going to be full of found family banter.
Get ready for...
🏳️🌈 MM
💚 Small Town
💛 Opposites
💚 Hurt/Comfort
💛 Grief/Loss
🎙️ First-Person, Dual
4.5 🍁 ~ 😢 Tears present ~ ⚠️ Contains content that could be uncomfortable for some readers!
❤️🖤
*A copy of this book was kindly provided to Canadian Girl Reads*
❤️ Instagram 🖤 Facebook 🩶 TikTok ❤️ Threads 🖤 X 🩶 Blog
Bᴇᴀᴜᴛʏ ᴀɴᴅ ᴛʜᴇ Bᴇᴀʀᴅ → R.M. Neill | Maple Mountain Lodge → Book 1
Sasha ~ Leaf
Sasha and Leaf's story was more than I expected and I loved their journey.
Sasha needs to get away from his day-to-day life so he heads to the mountains to unwind. Sasha was not expecting Leaf, a growly lumberjack of a man to sweep him off his feet and make him look at things from a different perspective.
Sasha and Leaf had me experiencing many emotions while partaking in their journey with them. Both of them are carrying heavy baggage from their past but their connection to each other has them opening up, confessing their inner most secrets, and helping each other heal.
Some very serious and heart-squeezing moments had me reaching for the tissues. I am excited for the next book in this series as it sounds like it's going to be full of found family banter.
Get ready for...
🏳️🌈 MM
💚 Small Town
💛 Opposites
💚 Hurt/Comfort
💛 Grief/Loss
🎙️ First-Person, Dual
4.5 🍁 ~ 😢 Tears present ~ ⚠️ Contains content that could be uncomfortable for some readers!
❤️🖤
*A copy of this book was kindly provided to Canadian Girl Reads*
❤️ Instagram 🖤 Facebook 🩶 TikTok ❤️ Threads 🖤 X 🩶 Blog
March 12, 2024
Blog | Instagram | Twitter | Facebook
Lovely, lovely, lovely.
First of all, I love mountain/lumberjack/wilderness settings. They also always involve small towns, which is also a fav of mine. So we already knew we were going to be off to a great start. With bonus points for this being set in Canada (it makes my maple syrup-loving heart happy).
Leaf is our ruggedly handsome lodge owner, who was tragically widowed seven years earlier. Since then he’s just been trudging along, keeping the lodge running, but not doing much else.
Enter Sasha. A city boy through and through, in need of an escape and a reset. He may have been a highly successful model, but it came at a cost, and he needs to figure out what’s next and take back control of his life.
A month off the beaten path seems like an excellent idea. As long as he doesn’t get eaten by a bear.
The attraction between them is sweet, and Sasha’s kind but also slightly naive nature opens Leaf up to want to help him and spend time with him.
It’s a wonderful story of learning to love and trust again, full of wonderful moments and shared experiences. Simple pleasures and heartfelt connections. There are also some really fantastic side characters that I’m really looking forward to seeing more of.
Lovely, lovely, lovely.
First of all, I love mountain/lumberjack/wilderness settings. They also always involve small towns, which is also a fav of mine. So we already knew we were going to be off to a great start. With bonus points for this being set in Canada (it makes my maple syrup-loving heart happy).
Leaf is our ruggedly handsome lodge owner, who was tragically widowed seven years earlier. Since then he’s just been trudging along, keeping the lodge running, but not doing much else.
Enter Sasha. A city boy through and through, in need of an escape and a reset. He may have been a highly successful model, but it came at a cost, and he needs to figure out what’s next and take back control of his life.
A month off the beaten path seems like an excellent idea. As long as he doesn’t get eaten by a bear.
The attraction between them is sweet, and Sasha’s kind but also slightly naive nature opens Leaf up to want to help him and spend time with him.
It’s a wonderful story of learning to love and trust again, full of wonderful moments and shared experiences. Simple pleasures and heartfelt connections. There are also some really fantastic side characters that I’m really looking forward to seeing more of.
March 6, 2024
RM Neill continues to spin out great stories. This one did not disappoint me at all. In fact, I devoured the story in almost one sitting! I love that there’s a “bear” who’s one of the MCs…one of my favorite trope! I love that there’s opposite attraction as another trope in this wonderful story! From what I understand, it’s the first book in the “Maple Mountain Lodge” series. Looking forward to the next story!!! I’d certainly give it more than the 5 allocated stars!
The story centers on Sasha, a model who’s kinda getting burnt out and decided to escape it all for a little while getting his energy re-energized. He chose to take a month off and spend his time at the Maple Mountain Lodge because it looked like a nice and quiet place to re-center himself. He bid adieu to the crazy world.
Leaf, this adorable bear is a widower who is also the owner of the Maple Mountain Lodge which his beloved husband started. He continues to mourn his husband’s passing even though it happened many years ago. When this gorgeous twink showed up at his lodge, it threw him off. He thought this guy was so gorgeous but felt his lingering feelings were a betrayal to the memory of his husband. To make matters worse, Sasha thought he was a very woofy guy! I’ll just stop right there and have you pick up the book to read to find out what happened!
The story centers on Sasha, a model who’s kinda getting burnt out and decided to escape it all for a little while getting his energy re-energized. He chose to take a month off and spend his time at the Maple Mountain Lodge because it looked like a nice and quiet place to re-center himself. He bid adieu to the crazy world.
Leaf, this adorable bear is a widower who is also the owner of the Maple Mountain Lodge which his beloved husband started. He continues to mourn his husband’s passing even though it happened many years ago. When this gorgeous twink showed up at his lodge, it threw him off. He thought this guy was so gorgeous but felt his lingering feelings were a betrayal to the memory of his husband. To make matters worse, Sasha thought he was a very woofy guy! I’ll just stop right there and have you pick up the book to read to find out what happened!
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